Key Insights
Understanding fire safety is essential when specifying ceiling systems. All SAS International metal ceilings supplied by Progressive Materials are tested to AS 5637.1 and achieve a Group 1 fire rating – the highest possible classification for fire performance in Australia.
What is a Group Fire Rating?
In Australia, the group fire rating and fire performance of wall and ceiling linings is classified using Group Numbers in accordance with AS 5637.1 – a standard that assesses materials based on how they perform in a full-scale room fire scenario.
- Group 1: Best possible performance – very low flame spread and smoke development.
- Group 2: Moderate performance – acceptable for most commercial settings.
- Group 3: Limited performance – typically used in less fire-sensitive areas.
These ratings are determined through testing based on ISO 9705, as required by AS 5637.1, and are a critical part of compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).
What Affects the Group Fire Rating for Metal Ceilings?
While metal itself is non-combustible, the Group Number can be influenced by:
- Acoustic insulation or fleece backing
- Paint and coating systems
- Panel perforations and fixings
- Installation method and integration with other materials
How Do SAS Metal Ceilings Perform?
Metal ceilings are generally non-combustible due to the inherent properties of aluminium and steel. However, when ceiling systems include acoustic backings, perforations, or specialised finishes, the complete system must be tested to determine its Group Number.
All SAS International metal ceiling systems, available exclusively through Progressive Materials, have been tested to AS 5637.1 and achieve a Group 1 fire rating.
This makes them suitable for use in high-performance environments, including:
- Hospitals and healthcare settings
- Commercial offices and mixed-use developments
- Educational facilities
- Airports, train stations, and public buildings
Progressive Materials partnering with SAS International
At Progressive Materials, we are proud to exclusively supply SAS International metal ceiling systems, globally recognised for their quality, durability, and advanced fire safety.
As outlined above, SAS ceilings meet the highest possible fire performance (Group Fire Ratings) standard under AS 5637.1 with a Group 1 rating, making them ideal for use in projects where compliance and safety are critical.
We work closely with designers, contractors, and procurement teams to deliver fully compliant, performance-tested ceiling solutions tailored to commercial and public sector projects across Western Australia.
If you’re unsure about the group fire rating requirements for your next ceiling specification, our expert team is here to help.
Laura Holmes – BDM Architectural Specifications
laura@progressivematerials.com.au
Reece Robinson – Business Development Manager
reece@progressivematerials.com.au
Group Fire Rating FAQ
Why is a Group Fire Rating important?
A Group Fire Rating assesses how a material performs in a full-scale room fire, classified under AS 5637.1. It is vital for ensuring materials meet the fire safety requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC).
Are metal ceilings automatically Group 1 rated since metal is non-combustible?
Not necessarily. While metal itself is non-combustible, other components like acoustic insulation, coatings, and installation methods can affect the system’s Group Number. The complete ceiling system must be tested.
What factors can influence the fire rating of a metal ceiling?
Key influences include acoustic backings, paint or coating systems, panel perforations, and how the system integrates with other materials during installation.
Do SAS International metal ceilings meet Group 1 fire rating requirements?
Yes. All SAS metal ceiling systems supplied by Progressive Materials have been tested to AS 5637.1 and meet Group 1 fire performance standards.
Where can Group 1 rated ceilings be used?
Group 1 ceilings are ideal for high-performance environments such as hospitals, education facilities, commercial offices, transport hubs, and public buildings.
What standard is used to test materials for Group Fire Ratings in Australia?
Group Numbers are determined using full-scale fire testing in accordance with ISO 9705, as outlined in AS 5637.1.
Is AS 5637.1 compliance mandatory for ceiling systems in Australia?
Yes. To comply with the National Construction Code (NCC), materials used in wall and ceiling linings must be tested under AS 5637.1.
Can I use a ceiling product without a Group Fire Rating test?
No. To meet NCC compliance, the product must be tested and assigned a Group Number according to AS 5637.1.
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