Posted 21 October 2021
How do I know what class to use and where?
In some parts of Europe, the national regulatory body is defining which class should be used in a specific application; the UK government has not taken this approach. The 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations July 2018 does not specify Euroclasses for specific applications, however some supplementary standards such as BS 6701:2016+A1:2017 may apply. Specifiers and installers need to ensure the cables they select are appropriate for the fire risks in the building or application and any contractual terms.
Is CPR a regulation that I have to conform to?
Yes, it became a legal requirement in July 2017 so you must be compliant.
Does Brexit mean CPR won’t apply to us?
No, even though it's a European regulation the British government has already made it law.
Can I still use PVC cables?
Yes, PVC can be modified and made flame retardant and in its standard form still excellent in the right application.
Will some cables materials be banned?
No, class F covers cables that burn too much to meet class E but they can still be used if the building owner or specifier accepts the performance.
I usually specify LSHF so I need to do anything differently?
Yes. The standard is primarily about the spread of fire and heat release, not the toxicity of gases or smoke given off. So LSHF will be just as relevant in many applications but you need to consider CPR too.
Will I need to keep more records?
Yes, you will need to know the class of product you’ve installed for up to ten years. Some cables will be printed but many won’t so the labelling and DoP (Declaration of Performance) will be important, you may be also be asked to pass this on to the specifier or building owner.
Who is responsible for CPR?
It's up to the designer, specifier or installer to satisfy themselves that the products chosen are appropriate for the application and meet any contractual requirements. The supplier is responsible for ensuring the cable conforms to a given class if the cable is intended for use in a building.
Are all cables affected?
No, cables not installed within a building or civil works do not need to conform to CPR. Confusingly, fire performance / survival cables, such as Prysmian’s FP100, FP200 and FP600, are not yet covered by CPR - although a separate standard is currently being written for these.
Can I buy all the cables I want conforming to CPR?
No, but we stock around 900 compliant cables and the list is growing. Manufacturers are only likely to test cables that are typically used in buildings, so if the cable is primarily used outdoors or in equipment then it is unlikely to be compliant.