CE and UKCA marking are often assumed to apply to all construction products, but when it comes to access panels, the position is more specific. At present, neither CE marking nor UKCA marking is a requirement for access panels.

Why CE & UKCA marking don’t apply

Both CE and UKCA marking rely on the existence of a harmonised product standard — an EN standard for CE, or a designated standard for UKCA. These standards define how a product is tested and declared for performance.

For access panels, no such standard currently exists that brings them into scope for either marking.

EN 14351-1 — External doorsets

EN 14351-1 applies to external pedestrian doorsets and windows. Access panels are not classified as external doorsets, so they are outside the scope of this standard.

prEN 14351-2 — Internal doorsets

The draft standard prEN 14351-2 is intended to cover internal pedestrian doorsets. Even when published, it is expected to apply to doorsets rather than access panels, meaning access panels will remain out of scope.

prEN 16034 — Fire resistance

For fire-resistant products, prEN 16034 uses the term “doorset” to cover a wide range of products, including:

• Industrial and commercial doors
• Garage doors
• Roller shutters
• Operable fabric curtains
• Pedestrian doorsets
• Inspection hatches (in certain contexts)

However, this standard is not yet fully harmonised for this application, and until it is, CE or UKCA marking for fire resistance characteristics via this route is not possible.

What this means in practice

Although CE and UKCA marking do not apply, access panels are still expected to meet strict performance requirements. Compliance is typically demonstrated through:

• Fire resistance testing to recognised standards
• Smoke leakage testing where required
• Acoustic performance testing
• Air permeability and airtightness testing

This ensures that products meet the necessary building regulation requirements, even without CE or UKCA marking.

CE vs UKCA — is there a difference here?

In this case, no.

• CE marking (for the EU market), and
• UKCA marking (for Great Britain)

both depend on product standards that do not currently include access panels.

As a result, if CE marking is not applicable, UKCA marking is not applicable either.

Key takeaway

Access panels are not currently subject to CE or UKCA marking because:

• There is no harmonised or designated product standard covering them
• Relevant standards focus on doorsets, not access panels
• Fire-related marking routes are not yet available for this product type

Final thoughts

For specifiers, contractors, and building owners, the priority should be proven performance, not simply product marking.

When selecting access panels, ensure they are supported by:

• Verified test evidence
• Clear performance data
• Compliance with relevant building regulations

This approach ensures the right level of performance is achieved, even in the absence of CE or UKCA marking.

Related reading

• BS EN 1634-1: Fire Resistance Testing Explained — the fire test standard behind the evidence
• Fire Ratings Explained — E and EI ratings explained
• Smoke Tested Access Panels & Riser Doors — smoke leakage performance

Ready to specify?

Rapid Access products are supported by verified fire, smoke, acoustic and airtightness test evidence. Browse the Certifications & Compliance resource page, or contact the Technical Service team for project-specific performance documentation.

Fire performance is one of the most critical considerations in modern construction, particularly when it comes to compartmentation and life safety. BS EN 1634-1 is the primary European test standard used to assess the fire resistance of doorsets, shutters, and openable windows, and it plays a key role in how fire rated access panels and riser doors are evaluated.

What is BS EN 1634-1?

BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 is a fire test standard that measures how long a construction product can withstand fire exposure under controlled conditions.

The test simulates a real fire scenario by placing a doorset or panel into a furnace and exposing it to increasing temperatures, following a standard time-temperature curve.

The aim is to determine how effectively the product maintains its performance over time.

What does the test measure?

BS EN 1634-1 focuses on two key performance criteria.

Integrity (E)

Integrity refers to the ability of the product to prevent the passage of flames and hot gases from one side to the other.

A product achieves integrity if:

• Flames do not pass through
• Gaps or openings do not allow fire to spread
• There is no sustained ignition on the unexposed side

Insulation (I)

Insulation measures how well the product limits the transfer of heat.

A product achieves insulation if:

• The temperature rise on the non-fire side stays within defined limits
• The risk of ignition of nearby materials is reduced

Understanding fire ratings

Fire resistance is expressed using classifications such as:

• E30 — 30 minutes integrity
• EI30 — 30 minutes integrity and insulation
• EI60 — 60 minutes integrity and insulation

The higher the number, the longer the product can withstand fire exposure under test conditions.

How the test works

During testing:

• The product is installed into a representative wall or partition
• It is exposed to fire from one side (or both sides in separate tests)
• Temperatures inside the furnace can exceed 800°C within minutes
• Performance is monitored until failure criteria are reached

Failure can occur if:

• Flames pass through
• Excessive heat transfer is recorded
• Structural collapse or distortion compromises performance

Why BS EN 1634-1 matters for access panels

Although access panels are not always directly covered by product standards for CE or UKCA marking, their fire performance is still assessed using BS EN 1634-1.

This allows manufacturers to:

• Demonstrate fire resistance performance
• Support compliance with Building Regulations Part B
• Provide tested solutions for compartment walls and ceilings
• Ensure consistency and reliability across installations

For specifiers and contractors, it provides a recognised and trusted benchmark when selecting fire-rated access solutions.

Testing vs real-world performance

It’s important to understand that fire testing is carried out under controlled laboratory conditions.

Actual on-site performance depends on:

• Correct installation
• Suitable wall or ceiling construction
• Use of approved components (seals, fixings, boards)

This is why tested details and installation guidance are just as important as the test result itself.

Key takeaway

BS EN 1634-1 is the foundation for fire resistance testing of access panels and doorsets, providing:

• A consistent method of assessing fire performance
• Clear classifications for integrity and insulation
• Confidence for designers, contractors, and building owners

Final thoughts

When specifying fire-rated access panels or riser doors, always look beyond the headline rating.

Ensure the product is backed by:

• Valid test evidence
• Clear installation details

This ensures the product will perform as intended when it matters most.

Related reading

• Fire Ratings Explained — 30/60/90/120 minute ratings in detail
• What Is Fire Compartmentation? — why fire ratings exist
• CE & UKCA Marking on Access Panels — how marking applies to access panels
• Smoke Tested Access Panels — BS EN 1634-3 — the smoke test companion

Ready to specify?

Browse the fire rated access panel ranges, or contact the Technical Service team for BS EN 1634-1 test evidence and installation detail drawings for your project.

Airtightness is now a key consideration in modern construction, driven by energy efficiency requirements and tighter building regulations. While walls, floors, and glazing are often the focus, access panels can be a weak point if not properly specified.

Airtight access panels are designed to minimise uncontrolled air leakage, helping maintain building performance and compliance.

Why airtightness matters

Uncontrolled air leakage can lead to:

• Heat loss, increasing energy consumption
• Reduced thermal efficiency, affecting U-value performance
• Condensation risk, potentially leading to long-term damage
• Poor indoor comfort, with drafts and inconsistent temperatures

In the UK, airtightness is closely linked to Building Regulations Part L, which sets requirements for energy performance in buildings.

What is an airtight access panel?

An airtight access panel is designed to limit the amount of air passing through the panel and its frame when installed into a wall or ceiling.

This is achieved through:

• Continuous perimeter seals or gaskets
• Precision manufacturing tolerances
• Secure locking mechanisms to maintain compression
• Robust frame design to prevent distortion

The goal is to ensure the panel performs as part of the overall air barrier, rather than compromising it.

How airtightness is tested

Airtight access panels are typically tested in accordance with BS EN 1026:2016 — Air Permeability Testing. This standard measures how much air passes through a product when subjected to pressure differences.

During testing:

• Air pressure is applied to both sides of the panel (negative and positive pressures)
• Leakage is measured at different pressure levels (e.g. 50 Pa)
• Results are expressed as air permeability (m³/h/m²)

Lower values indicate better airtightness performance.

Understanding air permeability results

Test results are often quoted at 50 Pascals (Pa), which is a common reference pressure. For example:

• Lower m³/h/m² = better airtight performance
• Results may differ slightly between positive and negative pressure tests

In some cases, products may also be classified into performance classes (e.g. Class 1–4), depending on the test method and application.

Where airtight panels are used

Airtight access panels are commonly specified in:

• Residential developments (to meet Part L requirements)
• Commercial buildings with strict energy targets
• Schools and healthcare environments
• Plant rooms and service risers within airtight envelopes

They are particularly important where the panel sits within the primary air barrier line of the building.

Airtightness vs fire & acoustic performance

Airtight performance is often required alongside other criteria, such as:

• Fire resistance (tested to recognised fire standards)
• Acoustic performance (to reduce sound transfer)

A well-designed access panel can combine these properties, but each must be individually tested and verified.

Installation matters

Even the highest-performing airtight panel can underperform if installed incorrectly.

Key considerations include:

• Proper sealing between frame and structural opening
• Use of appropriate sealants and fixings
• Installation in line with tested details

Airtightness is only as strong as the weakest point in the system.

Key takeaway

Airtight access panels play a vital role in maintaining building performance by:

• Reducing unwanted air leakage
• Supporting compliance with Part L
• Improving energy efficiency and comfort

When selecting access panels, ensure they are backed by verified air permeability test results, proven design and sealing systems, and clear installation guidance. This ensures the panel performs as part of the overall building envelope, not against it.

Related reading

• Smoke Tested Access Panels & Riser Doors — smoke leakage performance
• BS EN 1634-1: Fire Resistance Testing Explained — the fire test standard
• CE & UKCA Marking on Access Panels — how marking applies to access panels

Ready to specify?

Browse the Airtight Access Panels range, or for stacked airtight, fire and acoustic specifications contact the Technical Service team for verified test evidence and installation detail drawings.

When discussing fire safety, flames are often the primary focus. However, in many fire scenarios, smoke presents the greatest risk to life safety. Smoke can spread rapidly through a building, reducing visibility, affecting escape routes, and carrying toxic gases.

This is why smoke performance is an important consideration when specifying access panels and riser doors.

What is a smoke tested access panel?

A smoke tested access panel or riser door is designed to limit the passage of smoke leakage through the door leaf and frame assembly when closed.

This is typically achieved through:

• Smoke seals or gaskets
• Controlled compression between the door and frame
• Precision manufacturing tolerances
• Appropriate locking systems to maintain seal pressure

The aim is to help maintain compartmentation and reduce smoke transfer between areas of a building.

Why smoke leakage matters

Smoke can spread long before structural fire failure occurs.

Controlling smoke leakage helps to:

• Protect escape routes
• Improve visibility during evacuation
• Reduce the spread of toxic gases
• Support compartmentation strategies within the building

Smoke control is particularly important in:

• Corridors and escape routes
• Residential developments
• Healthcare facilities
• Commercial buildings with protected zones

How smoke testing is carried out

Smoke leakage testing is commonly performed in accordance with BS EN 1634-3:2004 — Smoke Control Test for Door and Shutter Assemblies.

This standard measures the amount of smoke leakage passing through a closed doorset or panel under controlled pressure conditions.

During testing:

• The panel assembly is installed into a test rig
• Air pressure is applied to simulate smoke movement
• Leakage rates are measured at different pressures and temperatures

The test assesses how effectively the assembly limits smoke transfer.

Ambient & medium temperature smoke tests

Smoke testing may be carried out at different temperatures depending on the required application.

Ambient smoke testing (Sa)

Ambient smoke testing assesses leakage at room temperature conditions. This is intended to simulate the early stages of a fire before temperatures significantly rise.

Medium temperature smoke testing (S200)

S200 testing is carried out at elevated temperatures, typically around 200°C. This evaluates how the assembly performs when exposed to hotter smoke conditions during a developed fire scenario.

Smoke seals and performance

Smoke performance is heavily influenced by the sealing system used within the panel assembly.

Factors affecting performance include:

• Seal type and quality
• Compression consistency
• Gap tolerances
• Correct installation

Even small gaps can significantly increase smoke leakage, making manufacturing accuracy and installation quality critical.

Smoke testing vs fire resistance

Smoke testing and fire resistance testing are not the same thing.

A product may be:

• Fire rated only
• Smoke tested only
• Or both fire rated and smoke tested

Fire resistance focuses on:

• Integrity (preventing flames and hot gases passing through)
• Insulation (limiting heat transfer)

Smoke testing specifically measures leakage rates through the assembly when closed.

Both characteristics may be required depending on the project specification.

Installation is critical

As with all tested performance, installation plays a major role in real-world results.

To maintain smoke performance:

• Structural openings must be suitable
• Frames must be correctly fixed and sealed
• Approved seals and components must be used
• Installation guidance should always be followed

Key takeaway

Smoke tested access panels help support building safety by:

• Limiting smoke leakage
• Supporting compartmentation
• Protecting escape routes and occupied spaces

Final thoughts

When specifying access panels for fire and smoke applications, it’s important to look beyond headline fire ratings alone.

Ensure products are supported by:

• Recognised smoke leakage testing
• Appropriate seal systems
• Clear installation guidance
• Verified test evidence

This helps ensure the access solution performs correctly when it matters most.

Related reading

• BS EN 1634-1: Fire Resistance Testing Explained — the fire resistance companion test
• Fire Ratings Explained — E and EI ratings explained
• What Is Fire Compartmentation? — why smoke control matters
• Airtight Access Panels — air permeability performance

Ready to specify?

Browse the smoke-rated access panel and riser door ranges, or contact the Technical Service team for BS EN 1634-3 smoke test evidence and installation detail drawings.

Fire ratings are commonly referenced throughout construction projects, but the terminology can often cause confusion. Understanding what a fire rating actually means is essential when specifying access panels, riser doors, and other compartmentation products.

Fire ratings are used to describe how long a product can maintain its performance when exposed to fire under controlled test conditions.

What is a fire rating?

A fire rating is the classification given to a product after successful fire resistance testing. The rating confirms how long the product can withstand fire exposure while maintaining specific performance criteria.

Typical fire ratings include:

• E30
• EI30
• EI60
• EI120

The number refers to the duration, in minutes, that the product achieved during testing. For example:

• 30 = 30 minutes
• 60 = 60 minutes
• 120 = 120 minutes

What does “E” mean?

Integrity (E) measures the ability of a product to:

• Prevent flames passing through
• Restrict hot gases
• Maintain compartmentation during a fire

A product classified as E30 has maintained integrity for 30 minutes during testing. This means the assembly prevented fire penetration for the tested duration, but it does not necessarily control heat transfer.

What does “EI” mean?

An EI classification includes both:

• Integrity (E), and
• Insulation (I)

In addition to stopping flames and hot gases, insulation limits the temperature rise on the non-fire side of the product. This helps reduce:

• Heat transfer
• Ignition risk to nearby materials
• Radiated heat into adjacent areas

For example, EI60 means 60 minutes of integrity and insulation performance.

Why insulation matters

An integrity-only product may stop flames but still allow significant heat transfer through the surface. An insulated product helps maintain safer temperatures on the protected side of the wall or ceiling construction.

This can be particularly important in:

• Escape routes
• Protected corridors
• Residential compartment walls
• High-risk environments

How fire ratings are achieved

Fire ratings are determined through laboratory testing, commonly to BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018.

During testing:

• The product is installed into a representative wall or ceiling construction
• It is exposed to controlled furnace temperatures
• Performance is monitored over time

The test continues until failure criteria are reached.

Furnace temperatures rise rapidly

Fire tests follow a standard time–temperature curve, where temperatures increase rapidly. Typical furnace temperatures can exceed:

• 500°C within minutes
• 800°C+ during longer-duration tests

This places significant stress on door leaves, frames, seals, locking systems and ironmongery.

Fire ratings and real-world applications

Different buildings and applications require different levels of fire performance. Examples may include:

• Service risers
• Corridors
• Plant rooms
• Ceiling void access
• Protected escape routes

The required fire rating will normally be determined by the building design, compartmentation strategy, Building Regulations and fire engineer requirements.

Fire rated does not mean everything is covered

A fire rating only applies to:

• The tested construction
• The tested configuration
• The tested installation method

Changes to wall type, hardware, frame design, panel size or installation method may affect performance unless covered by further assessment or extended application evidence.

Installation is just as important

Even a successfully fire-tested product can underperform if installed incorrectly. Correct installation is critical to maintaining:

• Seal compression
• Structural support
• Compartmentation integrity

Always follow manufacturer installation guidance, tested construction details, and approved fixing and sealing methods.

Key takeaway

Fire ratings provide a recognised way of understanding how a product performs during fire exposure.

• E = Integrity only
• EI = Integrity and insulation

The number indicates how many minutes the product achieved under test conditions.

Final thoughts

When specifying fire-rated access panels or riser doors, it’s important to look beyond the headline rating alone. Always consider the wall or ceiling construction, the installation method, supporting test evidence, and whether integrity-only or insulation is required.

A correctly tested and installed product plays a vital role in maintaining compartmentation and supporting building safety.

Related reading

• BS EN 1634-1: Fire Resistance Testing Explained — the test standard behind fire ratings
• What Is Fire Compartmentation? — why fire ratings exist
• Smoke Tested Access Panels & Riser Doors — the smoke companion to fire testing
• CE & UKCA Marking on Access Panels — how marking applies

Ready to specify?

Browse the fire-rated access panel and riser door ranges, or contact the Technical Service team for BS EN 1634-1 test evidence and installation detail drawings.

Riser doors are an essential part of modern construction, providing safe and secure access to concealed building services while helping maintain the appearance and performance of a wall.

Although often overlooked, riser doors play an important role in the operation, maintenance, and compliance of commercial and residential buildings.

What is a riser door?

A riser door is an access door installed into a wall to allow entry into a vertical service riser or duct.

These risers are used to carry building services between floors, including:

• Electrical systems
• Pipework
• Data and communication cabling
• Ventilation services
• Fire protection systems

The riser door provides maintenance access while concealing these services from view.

Where are riser doors used?

Riser doors are commonly found in:

• Apartment blocks
• Commercial offices
• Hospitals
• Schools
• Hotels
• Retail developments

They are typically installed within corridors, communal areas, and plant and service zones.

Why are riser doors important?

Riser doors do more than simply provide access. Depending on the specification, they may also contribute to:

• Fire compartmentation
• Smoke control
• Acoustic performance
• Airtightness requirements
• Security and restricted access

This makes them a critical part of the overall wall construction.

Fire rated riser doors

Many riser doors are required to provide fire resistance performance to help maintain compartmentation within a building.

Fire-rated riser doors are commonly tested to recognised standards such as:

• BS EN 1634-1 for fire resistance
• BS EN 1634-3 for smoke leakage performance

Typical classifications may include:

• E30 / EI30
• E60 / EI60
• Higher ratings depending on project requirements

Single & double door configurations

Riser doors are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations, including:

• Single door riser doors
• Double door riser doors
• Large-format access solutions

The configuration selected will depend on the opening size, access requirements, and service coordination within the riser.

Frame types & finishes

Riser doors can be manufactured with different frame styles to suit the wall finish and project design. Common options include:

• Picture frame
• Beaded frame (plaster-in)
• Shadow gap frame
• Exposed edge designs

Finishes may include:

• Powder coated steel (commonly RAL 9010)
• Primed finishes for decoration on site
• Bespoke RAL colours

Locking options

Different locking systems are available depending on the application and required level of security. Typical options include:

• Budget locks
• 3-point locking systems
• Tamper-proof locks
• Square key locks
• Euro cylinder locks

The lock selection often depends on access frequency, security requirements, and fire and smoke performance needs.

Why correct specification matters

Because riser doors often form part of a fire-rated or acoustic wall, it’s important that the correct product is selected for the application. Considerations may include:

• Fire rating requirements
• Acoustic performance
• Airtightness
• Smoke leakage performance
• Wall construction compatibility
• Installation method

Installation is critical

Even a high-performance riser door can underperform if installed incorrectly. Correct installation helps ensure:

• Proper seal compression
• Structural stability
• Compliance with tested details
• Consistent long-term performance

Always follow the manufacturer’s installation guidance and tested construction details.

Key takeaway

Riser doors provide safe and practical access to concealed building services while supporting the performance requirements of the surrounding wall construction.

Depending on the specification, they can contribute to:

• Fire safety
• Smoke control
• Acoustics
• Airtightness
• Building aesthetics

Final thoughts

Riser doors are a vital part of modern building design, combining functionality, compliance, and finish quality in one solution.

When specifying a riser door, it’s important to consider not only the opening size, but also the performance requirements, wall construction, access needs and installation compatibility.

Selecting the right riser door helps ensure safe, reliable, and compliant access throughout the life of the building.

Related reading

• What Is Fire Compartmentation? — why riser doors are fire-rated
• Fire Ratings Explained — E and EI ratings explained
• Smoke Tested Access Panels & Riser Doors — smoke leakage performance
• BS EN 1634-1: Fire Resistance Testing Explained — the fire test standard

Ready to specify?

Browse the riser door range, or contact the Technical Service team for fire, smoke and acoustic test evidence, frame options and installation detail drawings.

Fire compartmentation is a key part of modern building design. It protects lives and property during a fire.

The purpose is simple: slow the spread of fire and smoke through a building. Holding a fire inside one area buys people time to get out. It also limits the damage to the structure.

What is fire compartmentation?

Fire compartmentation is the process of dividing a building into separate fire-resistant sections, known as compartments.

These compartments are designed to:

• Contain fire and smoke for a specified period
• Protect escape routes
• Reduce fire spread between areas
• Support firefighting operations

The walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and access systems forming these compartments must all work together to maintain performance during a fire.

Why is compartmentation important?

Without compartmentation, fire and smoke can spread rapidly through:

• Corridors
• Ceiling voids
• Service risers
• Shafts and ductwork
• Hidden cavities within walls and floors

Effective compartmentation helps:

• Protect occupants during evacuation
• Reduce structural damage
• Limit disruption to other parts of the building
• Improve overall fire safety strategy

Smoke is often the biggest risk to life, not the flames. That makes compartmentation even more important.

How compartmentation works

A compartment wall or floor is built from fire-resistant materials. Each is rated to hold back fire for a set time.

However, these constructions often contain openings for:

• Electrical services
• Pipework
• Ventilation systems
• Access panels and riser doors

These openings must also maintain the fire performance of the compartment. This is why fire-rated products and fire stopping systems are critical.

Fire-rated access panels & riser doors

Access panels and riser doors are often fitted into compartment walls and ceilings. They give engineers access to the services behind.

Where compartmentation is required, these products may need to provide:

• Fire resistance
• Smoke leakage performance
• Insulation performance

Products are commonly tested to standards such as:

• BS EN 1634-1 for fire resistance
• BS EN 1634-3 for smoke leakage

Typical classifications include:

• E30 / EI30
• E60 / EI60

Common areas requiring compartmentation

Fire compartmentation is commonly required in:

• Apartment blocks
• Hospitals
• Schools
• Commercial offices
• Hotels
• Plant rooms and service risers

Particular attention is often given to:

• Escape routes
• Protected corridors
• Vertical service risers
• High-risk areas

Compartmentation is only as strong as its weakest point

A wall can carry a high fire rating and still fail. One unprotected opening is enough to undo it.

Common failures include:

• Incorrectly installed access panels
• Poorly sealed service penetrations
• Damaged fire stopping
• Unapproved modifications after installation

This is why the right spec, fitted the right way, matters so much.

The importance of tested systems

Fire-rated products should always be supported by:

• Valid fire test evidence
• Appropriate classifications
• Installation guidance
• Compatibility with the supporting wall or ceiling construction

The performance of a product is directly linked to how it was tested and installed.

Building Regulations & compliance

In the UK, fire compartmentation supports compliance with Building Regulations Part B.

The overall fire strategy of a building will determine:

• Required fire ratings
• Locations of fire compartments
• Performance requirements for access systems

Key takeaway

Fire compartmentation is designed to:

• Slow the spread of fire and smoke
• Protect escape routes
• Improve occupant safety
• Support the building’s overall fire strategy

Every part of that wall or ceiling plays a role. That includes the access panels and riser doors in it.

Final thoughts

Compartmentation is one of the most important parts of passive fire protection. Yet once a project is finished, it is hidden behind walls and ceilings.

Fire-rated access products, specified and fitted correctly, keep those compartments intact. That is what keeps a building safe over its whole life.

Related reading

• BS EN 1634-1: Fire Resistance Testing Explained — the fire resistance test standard
• Fire Ratings Explained — E and EI ratings explained
• Smoke Tested Access Panels & Riser Doors — smoke leakage performance
• What Is a Riser Door? — access to vertical service risers

Ready to specify?

Browse the fire-rated access panel and riser door ranges, or contact the Technical Service team for fire and smoke test evidence and installation detail drawings.