DIN EN ISO 11925-2: test, result and meaning simply explained

Anyone buying fireproof mats for offices, schools or public authorities quickly comes across DIN EN ISO 11925-2. It is the test standard used to show how easily a material can be ignited by a small flame. Here you can find out how the test works, what the result means and what exactly the FireMat certificate states.

What is DIN EN ISO 11925-2?

The full title is: “Reaction to fire tests – Ignitability of products subjected to direct impingement of flame – Part 2: Single-flame source test”. The standard applies throughout Europe and internationally. The current version dates from 2020.

In short: the standard describes a test. It checks whether a material catches fire when a small flame touches it directly. And whether the fire then spreads across the material.

How does the test work?

1. A sample of the material is clamped vertically.
2. A small burner directs a short flame at the surface or edge of the sample. It is also called a small burner test.
3. The flame is applied for 15 or 30 seconds.
4. The testers measure whether and how quickly the flame reaches a mark 150 mm above the point of application.
5. Filter paper lies under the sample. This shows whether burning droplets fall down.

The shorter the flame spread and the less dripping, the better the result. The 30-second test is the stricter one.

What does the result mean?

DIN EN ISO 11925-2 is one building block of the European classification according to EN 13501-1. There, building materials are divided into classes from A1 to F:

• Class E: the material passes the test with 15 seconds of flame exposure.
• Classes B to D: the material passes the test with 30 seconds. In addition, there is a second, larger test, the so-called SBI test.
• Classes A1 and A2: non-combustible materials. Other tests apply here.

In Germany, DIN 4102 used to apply, with classes B1 (flame-retardant) and B2 (normally flammable). These terms are still often heard. The European classes have largely replaced them. Read more in the article Fire class B and A.

What the FireMat certificate states

FireMat was tested by TÜV SÜD Industrie Service, Institute for Plastics, in Munich. The certificate states:

• FireMat is tested and recognised as flame-retardant.
• It was tested based on DIN EN ISO 11925-2 with the small burner and 30 seconds of flame exposure.
• It applies to the Black, Silk, Silk-A, Green Silk and Gold Edition.
• The certificate bears the number IS-AN5-MUC-2401-5010727972-001.
• It is valid until January 2027, provided that material and production do not change.

FireMat is made in Germany. You can download the certificate as a PDF from our certificates and downloads. There you will also find the data sheets of the individual editions.

Does the standard require fireproof mats?

No. DIN EN ISO 11925-2 is a test standard. It describes how to test, not where something has to be used.

The obligation to use a mat comes from other rules. For offices in Germany, DGUV Rule 115-401 names fireproof mats under coffee machines and kettles. The VdS guidelines and many insurers also require them. The standard then provides the proof that your mat meets this requirement. You can find all rules in the guide Fireproof mat for electrical appliances.

Why authorities and companies pay attention to it

During a fire safety inspection, it is not enough for a mat to be called “fireproof”. The inspector wants to see proof. A certificate from an independent testing body is exactly that.

That is why tax offices, schools, daycare centres and companies have been buying FireMat for years. They often order 30 to 50 pieces at once for all appliances in the building. You can find all information on ordering on account on our page for companies, authorities and schools.

Frequently asked questions

Is DIN EN ISO 11925-2 the same as DIN 4102?

No. DIN 4102 is the older German standard. DIN EN ISO 11925-2 is the European test. Both test ignitability, but using different methods.

What does “flame-retardant” mean?

The material only ignites with difficulty when exposed to a small flame. And it does not continue to burn on its own when the flame is removed.

Does FireMat not burn at all?

FireMat, made of Panox and para-aramid, withstands up to 300 °C permanently. It has no melting point and is self-extinguishing. At very high heat it chars instead of burning. The Gold Edition even withstands up to 800 °C.

Does the certificate apply to all FireMat editions?

It applies to the five editions named: Black, Silk, Silk-A, Green Silk and Gold.

Conclusion

DIN EN ISO 11925-2 tests how easily a material is ignited by a small flame. It does not itself require a mat, but it provides the proof that inspectors and insurers want to see. FireMat is certified by TÜV SÜD according to DIN EN ISO 11925-2, tested with 30 seconds of flame exposure.