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Fire Rating
PRACTICE & STANDARDSintermediate
Definition
A classification that indicates how long a structural element or material can withstand a standardised fire test before failing — expressed in minutes or hours (e.g. 30, 60, 90, 120 minutes). Building codes specify minimum fire ratings for structural elements, walls, floors, and doors based on building use and height.
Example
A 60-minute fire-rated party wall between two terraced houses must maintain its structural integrity and prevent flame and hot gas from passing through for at least 60 minutes in a standard furnace test.