Fire Rating Classification for Green Wall Tiles: Class B and C Explained

All products have to go through a series of tests in order to gain a fire rating certificate and classification. The end grade depends on how well the product has performed during the tests. Class B rating is one of the best ratings for an artificial foliage when needing to be used for commercial projects in the UK. We have a growing range of Class B fire rated foliage panels and plants.

Understanding Fire Rating Classification

Class B

When selecting artificial green wall panels for commercial or residential use, fire safety is a crucial factor. Our panels are tested to EN 13501-1:2018 and have achieved a B – s2, d0 rating, commonly referred to as Class B. This means they offer significantly reduced flame spread, unlike lower or non-rated products that could accelerate a fire. Additionally, they produce minimal smoke and generate no flaming droplets, which can contribute to fire hazards.

For commercial properties, fire safety regulations vary, and while some sites may not require Class B certification, it is always essential to check the specific fire performance requirements for your project and location. Opting for a fire-rated artificial green wall ensures a safer, more responsible choice for any indoor or outdoor space.

Fire Classification Breakdown B – S2, D0

• B (Flame spread classification) – Offers low combustibility and reduces the rate at which fire spreads
• S2 (Smoke production classification) – Produces limited smoke, which improves visibility and reduces inhalation risks in a fire
• D0 (Flaming droplets classification) – Generates no flaming droplets, which could cause the spread of burning material that could accelerate a fire

By choosing fire-rated artificial green wall panels, you prioritise safety, compliance, and peace of mind while enhancing the aesthetics of your space.

Class C

Our Class C fire-rated artificial hedge panels have been rigorously tested and certified C – s2, d0, ensuring they meet safety requirements for domestic and light commercial use. But what does this mean?

• C rating – Offers limited combustibility, making it a safe and reliable choice for most projects.
• s2 smoke rating – Indicates moderate smoke production, an essential factor in fire safety planning. This means that it could produce more smoke than that of a Class B product but that the amount produced is still considered a lower risk.
• d0 classification – An important point when working with plastics, it guarantees no flaming droplets, reducing the risk of fire spread through burning particles.

While slightly more flammable than B-rated materials, this classification still makes our artificial hedge panels a secure and stylish choice for interior and exterior spaces where fire-conscious design is a priority. A safer choice over products with no classifications. It is important to check what you require with your buildings and planning advisors based on your project requirements.

Commercial installations

Fire retardant artificial green walls

Customers working on commercial installations, such as offices, retail spaces, airports, and high-footfall commercial environments, often need to meet strict building regulations. These locations typically require Class B fire-rated artificial green wall panels. This classification helps enhance fire safety and compliance with regulations, making them a responsible choice for corporate offices or hospitality spaces, event venues, and public-facing commercial buildings such as retail shops.

Small independent businesses, pop-up shops, and temporary installations such as event props, film sets, and theatre productions often use the Class C fire-rated artificial hedge panels, based on some of our customers' past projects. While slightly more flammable than Class B-rated products, these panels still meet essential safety standards, making them a reliable option for businesses where the fire risk is lower. However some larger companies do also choose Class C products for decorative installations where strict fire regulations are not required.

For residential/domestic customers looking to enhance their home or garden with artificial greenery walls, the choice between Class B and Class C products is entirely based on preference rather than necessity. Unlike commercial projects, there are no fire rating requirements for domestic settings, allowing homeowners the flexibility to select panels based on design, longevity, and peace of mind. Whether they are looking to use them to create a feature wall in the living room, a faux hedge look to hide an unattractive garden wall or fence, all of our artificial hedge tiles meet high safety standards, making them some of the best-rated options available.

Regardless of the project type, it is always advisable to check specific fire safety requirements before installation, particularly for commercial settings.

Fire retardant artificial plants - Safety meets stunning greenery

Enhance your commercial space with the perfect blend of safety and style with our fire-retardant plants. Designed for architects, interior designers, and landscapers who demand both aesthetic excellence and the highest fire safety standards, our FR plants, and foliage offer lifelike greenery with built-in fire resistance.

The importance of a Class B fire rating for artificial plants:

Our fireproof foliage is manufactured using flame-resistant materials and chemicals, ensuring permanent fire retardant properties that never require reproofing. Unlike sprayed or dipped alternatives, our foliage contains no sticky, greasy, or oily residues,due to the product containing the chemical properties throughout the makeup of the product. This makes it a clean, maintenance free solution for commercial and residential settings.

Tested to BS 5867: Part 2: Type B, our fire retardant products comply with worldwide FR standards, providing long-term protection and reliability.

Understanding the code:

BS 5867 is a flammability test. The standard is divided into the three performance levels, Type A, Type B, and Type C. Type A is the baseline Fire Rated standard to pass, whereas Type C is the highest standard available.

Type B of the BS 5867: Part 2 flammability test specifically applies to products used in hotels, public buildings, and offices. Ensuring that they adhere to Type B standards in order to maintain a safe environment in public spaces. The product is tested under the pressure of a flame to see if the flame spreads and to see if there are any flaming droplets which could aid in the spread of fire.