Fire Hood Add-On for Ceiling Downlights

What is a fire hood?

A fire hood is a safety accessory designed to protect downlights in the event of a fire. When recessed downlights are installed, they can create small openings in ceilings that compromise the fire integrity of a building. Fire hoods, made from intumescent materials, are fitted over the back of downlights to maintain the fire-resistant barrier. These materials expand when exposed to extreme heat, slowing the spread of flames and heat through the ceiling, giving occupants crucial extra time to evacuate.

How do fire hoods work?

Fire hoods use intumescent materials that expand when subjected to high temperatures, effectively sealing the hole created by the downlight. This process helps contain the fire and prevents it from spreading through the ceiling for a specified time, depending on the fire rating of the hood. This extra protection can be vital in both residential and commercial environments where maintaining fire safety is a priority.

Regulatory Compliance

Fire hoods are essential for complying with building regulations regarding fire safety, particularly in multi-storey buildings. They help maintain fire barriers between floors and ensure that your downlight installation does not compromise the overall fire resistance of the structure.

Why are fire hoods important?

Without fire hoods, recessed downlights can weaken the fire rating of ceilings, allowing fire to spread more easily between rooms or floors. Intumescent fire hoods offer a crucial layer of protection by reinforcing the ceiling’s fire barrier, ensuring compliance with safety standards and providing peace of mind in the event of a fire.

By adding intumescent fire hoods to your downlights, you can maintain essential fire safety without compromising on design.