External UPVC panels on low level flats

[Mar62]

Just been looking at a clients flats and have seen that they have upvc panels below lounge windows. These were fitted some years ago and fixed to wooden battens that are secured to the rendering. The flats are ground with two storeys above. Does anyone know any details as to the possible performance of upvc panels in a fire situation where it may break out of a flat window? There are 6 flats within the block, single staircase / exit. I have found some articles that state that upvc wont actually assist the spread of a fire because of gases it produces during the combustion process? Any help would be appreciated.

[Fishy]

The Chlorine in PVC makes it relatively difficult to ignite from small ignition sources, but as with all polymers it is combustible and will burn if it's exposed to a large enough fire.  It's also a thermoplastic and will melt and flow upon heating.  The fire effluent produces Hydrochloric Acid if it alights on damp/moist surfaces (e.g. skin or the respiratory tract).

[Mar62]

Hi Fishy, thanks for your reply. Would you say it warrants removal?

[wee brian]

is it over 18m high?

[Owain]

Is the cladding above the ground floor windows ie might it carry fire up the building?

If it's only below the ground floor windows then although it might produce some nasty smoke and possibly impede escape it's probably no worse than shrubbery or wheeliebins.

Maybe some fire rated squirty foam behind the panels would mitigate any chimney effect?

[Fishy]

Hi Fishy, thanks for your reply. Would you say it warrants removal?

I wouldn't be inclined to make any recommendation as to why it may or may not be acceptably safe without seeing it myself, I'm afraid.

[AnthonyB]

Is the cladding above the ground floor windows ie might it carry fire up the building?

Maybe some fire rated squirty foam behind the panels would mitigate any chimney effect?

Perhaps it might not too! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RI9nO1Xp24

[Mar62]

Hi Sorry was busy yesterday so didn't get chance to reply.

No its not over 18m.

The panels are below each lounge window on ground, 1st and 2nd.

Fishy yes sorry didn't mean for you to make any judgment based on not seeing it, i wouldn't either!

Think client may now get a structural surveyor in to inspect.

[lyledunn]

First class Antony B! I hadn't seen that youtube video before. It will be great little gem when I am delivering 17th Edition courses to electrical contractors.

[Mike Buckley]

I am not sure if it the same video, but I remember attending a seminar where a similar video had been made showing the effects of a BS476 test on the squirty foam. We were not shown the video as the manufacturers of the foam had taken out a legal injunction preventing its showing.

I wonder why?

[colin todd]

The colour temperature of the video was too poor?