what is a fire tested acoustic ceiling, and why it matters in modern architecture
In construction nowadays, safety and performance are non-negotiable. Modern architecture demands materials that don’t just look good, but protect lives, support sustainability goals, and deliver comfort.
One critical feature at the heart of this balancing act is the fire tested acoustic ceiling.
If you’re an architect or building professional, you’ve likely encountered growing pressure to choose products that meet increasingly stringent fire safety regulations. However, you also want to do this without sacrificing acoustic performance or aesthetic appeal.
This is where our products, like SonaSpray, come into their own.
Let’s break down what a fire tested acoustic ceiling really is, why it matters, and how you can specify one that meets all the right criteria.
what is a fire tested acoustic ceiling?
A fire-tested acoustic ceiling is a ceiling system or finish that has been independently tested for fire resistance and certified to meet relevant fire safety standards, while also offering acoustic control. In simple terms, it does two jobs:
- Reduces sound reverberation and improves acoustic comfort
- Meets fire safety regulations by slowing down the spread of flame, smoke and heat
At Oscar Acoustics, our fire-tested SonaSpray range of acoustic sprays are designed to deliver exceptional sound absorption without compromising on safety. With Class 0 to BS476 and B-s1,d0 fire ratings, you enjoy peace of mind that the material won’t contribute to the rapid spread of fire or smoke in the event of an emergency.
why fire ratings matter in acoustic design
It’s tempting to think of fire safety and acoustics as separate issues, but in the real world, they intersect all the time. Poor performance materials can become a serious liability in public and commercial spaces. In the UK, building regulations Approved Document B mandates fire safety performance for most internal finishes. When ceilings are left out of the equation, or if the acoustic solution isn’t tested appropriately, you risk failing compliance and putting lives in danger.
The two key fire classifications for acoustic ceilings in the UK and Europe are:
- Class 0 to BS476 Part 6 & 7 (UK standard for fire propagation and surface spread of flame)
- Euroclass B-s1,d0 (European standard: very limited contribution to fire, minimal smoke, no flaming droplets)
SonaSpray is certified to both standards, ensuring suitability across the built environment, including schools, stadiums, hospitals, commercial buildings, and transport hubs.
controlling sound without sacrificing safety
The acoustic performance of a building is just as vital. Open-plan layouts, hard surfaces and busy areas make reverberation and background noise a constant challenge in modern architecture. That’s where acoustic plasters and sprays like SonaSpray step in.
Rather than bouncing sound back into the room, this spray-applied finish absorbs sound energy, reducing echo and improving clarity. Unlike traditional acoustic panels or tiles, it’s seamless, flexible, and non-intrusive. It can be applied to virtually any surface, contouring to the shape of the architecture while providing consistent coverage.
And crucially, it’s tested to perform under fire conditions.
The result? A finish that:
- Enhances people’s comfort and wellbeing
- Meets fire safety requirements
- Preserves your design intent
who needs fire tested acoustic ceilings?
These solutions are becoming increasingly popular in sectors that value both safety and acoustic performance. Common applications include:
- Schools and universities – controlling noise in classrooms and auditoriums while meeting strict fire codes
- Offices and co-working spaces – creating calm, collaborative environments with built-in safety
- Retail and hospitality – improving customer experience with immersive, welcoming acoustics
- Transport hubs and public buildings – ensuring resilience in high-risk, high-traffic spaces
- High-end residential developments – balancing peace and quiet with code compliance
In all these cases, a fire-tested acoustic ceiling allows designers to maintain the visual language of the space, while quietly protecting those within it.
more than compliance: sustainability and wellbeing
Choosing the right acoustic solutions for a ceiling isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about creating spaces where people feel safe, comfortable, and connected.
Oscar Acoustics goes beyond fire and sound performance to address the bigger picture: sustainability and indoor air quality. SonaSpray:
- Contributes up to 17 points to LEED projects
- Comes with EPDs to ISO 14025
- Achieves M1 certification for low emissions
- GreenGuard Gold and Cradle to Cradle certified.
- Satisfies many features under the WELL Building Standard.
That makes it ideal for architects committed to greener building practices and long-term performance. You’re not just installing a ceiling: you’re making an investment in the health and comfort of everyone who uses your building.
why architects choose Oscar Acoustics
Oscar Acoustics has been delivering expert acoustic solutions for over 48 years. We’re not just product providers: we’re partners in design, safety, and innovation.
With a strong track record across commercial, educational, cultural and hospitality sectors, our team understands what it takes to meet the high standards of today’s construction projects.
If you’re planning a project where performance matters, contact our team at Oscar Acoustics. We’re ready to help you create spaces that sound better, feel safer, and work harder for everyone who uses them.