Fire Rated
The test failed before the system did.
Overview
Fire safety is a fundamental requirement in modern construction. The Speedfloor Suspended Concrete Flooring System is designed with inherent fire-resistant properties, combining steel and concrete in a way that helps protect structural integrity and occupant safety during fire events. When appropriately specified, Speedfloor can meet or exceed required fire rating standards for various building types.
Objective
To explore how Speedfloor contributes to fire safety in building design, and how its fire rating enhances project compliance, occupant protection, and long-term asset value.
System Description
The Speedfloor system is composed of galvanized steel joists and a concrete topping slab. This combination offers strong fire resistance by:
Using concrete as a protective thermal barrier.
Integrating steel components engineered to perform under elevated temperatures.
Providing compatibility with fire-rated ceiling or spray systems where needed.
Fire Performance
Achieved a 2-hour fire resistance rating in accordance with SANS 10177-2:2005 & EN 1365-2:2014
This performance can be tailored based on slab thickness, topping material, ceiling finishes, and building requirements.
Key Benefits of Fire Resistance
Improved Life Safety
Benefit: Maintains structural integrity during fire events, giving occupants more time to evacuate.
Value: Meets critical safety benchmarks for residential, commercial, and public buildings.
Regulatory Compliance
Benefit: Supports compliance with local and international fire codes (e.g., SANS, Eurocode, AS, or IBC).
Value: Reduces the risk of delays or redesigns during plan approvals and inspections.
Design Flexibility
Benefit: Fire rating can be achieved without added fireproofing in many applications.
Value: Simplifies detailing, saves cost, and reduces additional trades.
Insurance & Risk Mitigation
Benefit: Demonstrated fire performance can lower insurance premiums and improve risk profiles.
Value: Enhances asset protection and peace of mind for stakeholders.
Applications & Use Cases
Multi-Storey Residential and Apartments
Fire-rated floor systems between units ensure compliance with intertenancy and building separation rules.
Commercial Developments
Floors with tested fire resistance provide safety in office spaces, retail, and public-use areas.
High-Risk Occupancies
Warehouses, industrial facilities, and hospitals benefit from durable fire-rated structural systems.
Installation Considerations
Fire rating can be achieved using standard Speedfloor slab configurations, depending on:
Joist depth and slab thickness
Reinforcement layout
Topping material (concrete or screed)
Ceiling systems or passive fire protection additions
Note: Project-specific fire engineering assessments are recommended.
Conclusion
The Speedfloor Suspended Concrete Flooring System supports modern fire safety standards with reliable, adaptable fire resistance. By integrating structural performance with tested fire ratings, Speedfloor offers peace of mind for designers, contractors, and building owners—delivering value not just in speed and simplicity, but in long-term safety and compliance.
