France introduces new fire safety regulations for cables

On July 1, 2017, the European Union’s Construction Products Regulation (EU No 305/2011), also known as the CPR, came into effect, mandating the classification of construction products, including electrical cables, based on their reaction to fire. This regulation aims to harmonize safety standards across Europe, ensuring that construction materials meet strict fire safety criteria. However, each EU member state is responsible for defining the specific fire classification levels applicable within their territories

In response to these regulations, France has recently updated its fire safety rules for Public Buildings (ERP) and High-Rise Buildings (IGH) through a new decree issued on May 17, 2024. The decree, published by the French Ministry of the Interior and Overseas Territories, marks a significant development in fire safety regulations for ERP and IGH. It updates the safety regulations initially outlined in the June 25, 1980, and December 30, 2011, orders, focusing particularly on the classification of electrical cables based on their fire performance. This update is designed to clarify and reinforce the existing safety requirements, ensuring that only products meeting the highest standards are used in the construction and renovation of public and high-rise buildings.

The new decree's provisions will come into force on May 17, 2025, giving professionals a year to adapt. Electricians, installers, and distributors must start preparing now by familiarizing themselves with the new standards and adjusting their inventory and practices accordingly. Compliance with these fire safety regulations is not just a legal requirement but also a vital measure to ensure the safety of building occupants.

Revised cable classifications for better protection

Under the new decree, the previous classifications for cables - C1 and C2, as defined by the NF C 32-070 standard - are no longer applicable. These have been replaced by European classifications:

• Cca-s2,d2,a2 replaces the old C2 classification.
• B2ca-s1a,d1,a1 replaces the old C1 classification.

Aginode’s cable offer for French market

As a member of SYCABEL, the professional association for cable and wire manufacturers, Aginode fully supports this initiative. Rachid Ait Ben Ali, Aginode Product Solution Manager explains: ‘At Aginode, we are dedicated to helping professionals meet these new safety requirements. Our extensive range of Cca and B2ca cables is designed to comply with the updated standards, ensuring that electricians, installers, and specifiers can find the right solutions for their projects. We see it as an important step toward improving fire safety standards across France and, as a cable manufacturer,  are committed to providing our French customers with communication cables that meet and exceed these stringent requirements.’