Why does self-extinction analysis matter?

 

• Standard fire resistance requirements assume that the load-bearing structure itself does not burn. An exposed timber ceiling adds fuel to the fire and can prevent the fire from going out.

• For tall timber buildings it must be shown that the building stands even if the fire cannot be put out quickly.

• The analysis gives the architect freedom: part of the timber can be left exposed if the calculation allows it.

 

Who is the analysis for?

 

• Architects and structural engineers.

• Timber house and CLT manufacturers.

• Developers building timber apartment buildings, offices or schools.

• Fire safety designers and reviewers.

 

What does the analysis include?

 

• Selection of the worst credible fire scenarios (e.g. a deep room with one façade, a corner room).

• Natural fire calculation based on EN 1991-1-2 Annex E, taking ventilation control into account.

• Contribution of exposed structural timber to the fire load.

• Char depth calculation according to EN 1995-1-2:2025 and an assessment of whether the fire self-extinguishes.

• Comparison of options (e.g. exposed and encapsulated surfaces, sprinklers) and recommendations.

• A professional report in Estonian or English.

We also design the fire safety part of timber buildings and review timber building projects, including tall timber office buildings.

 

Which documents are needed?

 

• Architectural plans, sections and façades.

• Fire safety report (if available).

• Timber structure data: CLT thicknesses, beam and column sizes.

• Information on which timber surfaces remain exposed.

 

How long does it take?

 

We agree the deadline in the offer, depending on the size of the building and the number of design rooms.

 

Frequently asked questions

What is self-extinction?

 

A situation where, after the room contents have burned out, flaming combustion of the exposed timber structures also stops and the fire does not continue indefinitely.

Does the analysis replace the fire resistance calculation?

 

No. The fire resistance of the load-bearing structure is calculated separately. The self-extinction analysis shows whether the structure withstands the full duration of the fire.

Do sprinklers change the result?

 

Yes. A sprinkler system reduces the design fire load and this is taken into account in the calculation.

Who carries out the analysis?

 

A Tulipunane OÜ fire safety expert, professional level 6. Our work is covered by professional liability insurance.