What Is The Fire Rating of A Smoke Curtain? A Complete Guide

When it comes to fire safety in buildings, smoke curtains play a crucial role in controlling smoke spread and improving evacuation conditions. But one of the most important questions architects, contractors, and facility managers ask is: What is the fire rating of a smoke curtain?

Understanding the fire rating of smoke curtains is essential for compliance with building codes and ensuring life safety. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

• What a smoke curtain fire rating means

• Different fire rating classifications

• How fire ratings are tested

• Key standards and regulations

• Choosing the right fire-rated smoke curtain for your project

What Does the Fire Rating of a Smoke Curtain Mean?

A fire rating indicates how long a smoke curtain can withstand fire exposure while maintaining its integrity and functionality. Smoke curtains are typically tested to resist:

• Flame penetration – Preventing flames from passing through the barrier.

• Heat transmission – Limiting heat transfer to the non-fire side.

• Structural integrity – Remaining intact without collapsing.

Fire-rated smoke curtains are designed to compartmentalize smoke and flames, allowing occupants more time to evacuate and reducing fire damage.

Fire Rating Classifications for Smoke Curtains

Smoke curtains can have different fire resistance ratings, commonly measured in minutes. The most typical ratings are:

1. 30-Minute Fire Rating (E30/EW30)

• Resists fire for 30 minutes.

• Suitable for low to moderate-risk environments (e.g., offices, retail spaces).

• Complies with many international building codes for smoke control.

2. 60-Minute Fire Rating (E60/EW60)

• Provides 60 minutes of fire resistance.

• Used in higher-risk areas (e.g., hospitals, high-rise buildings, industrial facilities).

• Meets stricter fire safety regulations.

3. 120-Minute Fire Rating (E120/EW120)

• Offers 2 hours of fire protection.

• Required in critical infrastructure (e.g., airports, underground tunnels).

• Ensures extended evacuation time in large or complex buildings.

Additional Classifications:

• "E" Rating – Measures integrity (resistance to flames and collapse).

• "EW" Rating – Includes both integrity and limited heat radiation.

How Are Smoke Curtain Fire Ratings Tested?

Fire-rated smoke curtains undergo rigorous testing according to international standards, such as:

• BS 476 (UK) – Tests fire resistance of building materials.

• EN 13501 (EU) – Classifies fire performance (e.g., E30, E60).

• UL 10D (USA) – Evaluates fire-protective curtain assemblies.

• AS 1530.4 (Australia) – Assesses fire resistance of construction elements.

During testing, smoke curtains are exposed to extreme heat (up to 1000°C) to verify they can:
✔️ Stay intact without tearing or melting.
✔️ Prevent smoke and flames from passing through.
✔️ Operate automatically during a fire (if motorized).

Key Standards and Regulations for Fire-Rated Smoke Curtains

To ensure compliance, smoke curtains must meet local and international fire safety codes, including:

1. International Building Code (IBC) – USA

• Requires smoke barriers in atriums, stairwells, and large spaces.

• Specifies fire resistance based on occupancy type.

2. NFPA 105 – Standard for Smoke Door Assemblies

• Covers installation and performance of smoke control systems.

3. EN 12101-8 (Europe) – Smoke and Heat Control Systems

• Defines requirements for smoke curtains in fire scenarios.

4. Australian Building Codes (NCC/BCA)

• Mandates smoke barriers in high-rise and public buildings.

Choosing a certified and tested smoke curtain ensures legal compliance and optimal safety.