Publication of Updated BS 8524 series – Active Fire Curtain Barriers Announced
12 December 2025
The publication of the revised suite of British Standards BS 8524 was released by the British Standards Institution (BSI) on 21st November 2025. This long-awaited update to the UK’s definitive series of standards for active fire curtain barriers follows an extended delay caused by concerns over scope overlaps with a related BS EN designated product standard — concerns that have now been fully resolved.  BS 8524 remains the leading reference point for the design, specification, testing, application, installation, and maintenance of active fire curtain assemblies in the UK. The series comprises two parts: - Part 1 – Product specifications and performance requirements
- Part 2 – Code of practice for application, installation, commissioning, and maintenance
Both parts have been republished for the 2025 iteration. A major challenge for industry compliance has been the lack of UKAS-accredited third-party certification schemes, following the withdrawal of previous bodies in 2023. The ASFP is pleased to note that UL has now achieved UKAS accreditation to certify products to BS 8524-2013 and is accepting new applications - an important step in supporting consistent, independent verification of product performance. Debate has continued regarding the interaction between BS 8524 -1 and the harmonised European Standard EN 16034, which is also designated in the UK as BS EN 16034. The work done in redrafting the BS 8524 series of standards addressed the scope clash and sought to differentiate applications where the different standards are appropriate. BS 8524 includes unique and more stringent testing requirements — notably cycle and independent ‘hot’ motor testing — that are not covered within EN 16034, except in specific cases such as pedestrian door set applications as installed in shopping malls, where the EN standard is a legal requirement. The revised BS 8524 standard also references ISO 21524, the new international standard for fire curtains. This includes updated test methods addressing features such as vision panels, ensuring stronger alignment between UK practice and global standards. Scope and Application of BS 8524-1:2025BS 8524-1:2025 sets out the requirements for the design, testing, and classification of active fire curtain barrier assemblies. It addresses performance criteria, including: - Reliability and durability
- Fire resistance
- Smoke containment
- Force-gauge resistance
- Performance of control devices and ancillary equipment
The standard applies to active fire curtain barrier assemblies made of any material and intended to provide fire resistance in most end-use applications. It does not apply to: - Barriers forming part of a building’s structure
- Theatre/proscenium textile curtains (see BS 5867-1)
- Fabrics for curtains, drapes, and blinds (see BS 5867-1 and BS 5867-2)
- Smoke barriers (see BS EN 12101-1)
- Operable fabric curtains used in retail settings for pedestrian access (see BS EN 16034)
The republication of the BS8524 series is expected to resolve long-standing regulatory uncertainty, support consistent compliance pathways, and raise standards for the design, testing, installation, and ongoing maintenance of active fire curtain systems across the UK. Mike Ward, Managing Director of the ASFP, commented: “The release of the 2025 versions of the BS 8524 series marks a pivotal moment for the fire safety sector. After a prolonged period of confusion and inconsistency, the industry now has a clear and robust framework for the specification and testing of active fire curtain barriers. This update strengthens alignment with international standards, restores a vital third-party certification pathway, and provides the clarity that manufacturers, installers, regulators, and ultimately end users have urgently needed. The ASFP strongly welcomes this revision and encourages all stakeholders to adopt and apply the updated requirements without delay.”
|
Email to a Friend