Fire rating for spotlights...

[Sarah_W]

I've put standard non fire tated ones into my bedroom and kitchen (new plasterboard). I've been told by a me that ones that go into lath and plaster need to be fire rated. I've strengthened th laths with bonding plaster from above and used this to line the hole as well. Do I really need fire rated lights?

[Busamav]

You can get fire hoods to go over the back of them , about 6/7 quids a shot

[Smiler.]

What's a 'me'?


I don't think that there are any such rules for a private dwelling - you're not in a flat are you?


Some say that the heat from a down-light may cause the laths to catch fire - in which case a fire hood isn't going to stop a fire in the void.


Are they mains or ELV (12-volt)?


What is the void depth?


Have you got a picture of them?

[Ganglandboss]

You only need to install fire rated fittings if it is a fire barrier. You do need to prevent debris falling on the back of the fittings so fire rated fittings are usually a better option.

Also remember that under part p of the building regs, you cannot install new lighting in a kitchen unless you go through building control or you are a registered domestic installer. Also any extra low voltage installations (other than pre-assembled CE marked kits) are subject to the same regulations.

[Goochie]

Lath and plaster has nothing to do with the need for "Fire Rated" downlights - However I think someone is a little confused and is thinking of "F Marking"

When mounting a downlight into a "normally flamable surface" you need to ensure that it carries the F mark. This certifies that the product is suitable for use in such an application.

The "F mark" is simply a letter F inside a triangle that should be printed/marked somewhere on the downlight.