Do I Need Fire Rated Downlights?

This is an often asked question. Here I will explain how a fire rated down light works, when you should use them and when you must use them.

Fire rated downlights are sometimes called fireproof downlights. This leads many people to think that the down lighter is designed so that it cannot catch fire. This is not the case, as all of the down lights that we supply are 'F' rated, which means that they can be mounted on a flammable surface, and will not catch fire in any event.

The fire rated downlights that we supply are at least 60 minute rated and comply with all building regulations concerning minimum fire and acoustic ratings.

Fire rated down lights come in two main types, with and without a can. Those with a can are fully enclosed in a steel casing with an intumescent strip around the area where the down lighter meets the ceiling. Those without a can are open above but again have the intumescent strip. Of the two, the fully enclosed type is the most desirable; however, where ceiling space is limited, a fire rated down lighter without a can may be used as it takes up far less space.

In case of a fire, the intumescent strip reacts to the heat by expanding to such an extent that it collapses the light fitting and blocks the hole. This prevents the spread of fire between floors through the ceiling cut outs.

For commercial applications, new builds and for properties that are rented out, all downlights must be fire rated when installed in a ceiling with living accommodation above. The minimum fire rating is generally 30 minutes but 60 or 90 minutes is desirable.

In other situations, it is entirely up to you but we would always recommend using fire rated down lights when there is living accommodation above. If in doubt, contact your local council building regulations office who will advise you.