How GB 55037-2022 General Fire Code Affects Board Selection
GB 55037-2022 is a mandatory engineering code setting hard requirements for reaction-to-fire and fire resistance of partitions, ceilings and smoke ducts. Key points: determine reaction class by location (Class A non-combustible preferred for occupied/egress areas), determine fire resistance by system and demand full assembly test reports — a compliant board does not alone make a compliant system.
What does 'mandatory code' mean?
GB 55037-2022 has been in force since 1 June 2023 with all provisions mandatory. Reaction-to-fire classes follow GB 8624-2012 (A1, A2, B1, etc.). Project design documents specify reaction class and fire resistance for each building part.
How to select for partitions, ceilings and ducts?
Partitions and ceilings in egress routes and occupied spaces (hospitals, schools, commercial) should use Class A non-combustible materials such as A1 magnesium board. Smoke-control ducts and ducts crossing fire zones must meet designed fire resistance verified by full duct assembly tests — an A1 board alone does not guarantee duct fire resistance; thickness, flanges, studs and penetration seals matter.
Procurement & acceptance notes (advisory)
We recommend specifying reaction class and standard numbers in procurement contracts, verifying that test reports match delivered product models, thickness and batches, and organizing complete reports and concealed-work records before fire acceptance. This article is interpretive guidance; actual projects must follow design documents and local fire review requirements.
Cited Standards & Sources
- GB 55037-2022 General Code for Fire Protection of BuildingsMinistry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development · https://www.mohurd.gov.cn/
- GB 8624-2012 Classification for burning behavior of building materials and productsSAMR / Standardization Administration of China · https://openstd.samr.gov.cn/
This article is interpretive guidance; actual projects must follow design documents and current standard texts.
FAQ
What is the difference between A1 and A2?+
Under GB 8624-2012, Class A non-combustible splits into A1 and A2: A1 has the strictest limits on fire growth and smoke — virtually no combustion contribution; A2 allows trace organic contribution but remains non-combustible. The most fire-critical parts (e.g. smoke control) often specify A1.