TL;DR: On specified projects, acoustic materials must meet fire-safety standards. In the UK you'll see Class O (a stringent surface-fire classification) and the European EN 13501-1 system (classes A1–F, plus smoke ‘s’ and flaming-droplet ‘d’ ratings). Marine work adds IMO/SOLAS. Always confirm the actual certificate for the exact product and finish.
Why fire rating matters
Acoustic treatment covers large areas of wall and ceiling, so its reaction to fire is part of the room's fire strategy. Building control, insurers and — at sea — class societies will want evidence. For installers, getting this right is part of a defensible specification.
The standards you'll meet
| Standard | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Class O (UK) | A high level of resistance to surface spread of flame / fire propagation for wall and ceiling linings. |
| EN 13501-1 (EU) | Reaction-to-fire classes A1, A2, B, C, D, E, F, with sub-ratings for smoke (s1–s3) and flaming droplets (d0–d2). |
| IMO/SOLAS (marine) | Fire-safety requirements for materials used aboard vessels. |
How C-ATS materials sit
The C-ATS Reverberation Control Panel uses a Class O acoustic foam core. For marine projects, a Marine Reflection Control Panel and project-basis marine-compliant versions are available. Because fire performance can depend on the exact material, finish and build-up, confirm the current certificate for your specific specification rather than relying on a general class.
A note on the finished surface
If panels are concealed behind a fabric or other finish, that finish has its own fire rating — specify the whole build-up, not just the acoustic core. (See how to conceal acoustic treatment.)
FAQ
What fire rating do acoustic panels need?
It depends on the building and jurisdiction. UK projects often call for Class O or an EN 13501-1 class; marine projects require IMO/SOLAS-compliant materials. Confirm with the project's fire strategy.
What is Class O?
A stringent UK classification for resistance to surface spread of flame on wall and ceiling linings.
Does the fabric covering need a rating too?
Yes — specify the fire rating of the whole finished build-up, including any concealing finish.