Technical Specifications, Non-Fragility

Non-Fragility

The Non-Fragility classification of roof and rooflight systems is a critical aspect of the building performance. While it is true that the Tata Colorcoat Confidex^® Guarantee offers maintenance free assurance, it is good practice to ensure a regular annual and post-storm inspection and maintenance regime. Coupled with this, regular inspection and maintenance of gutters, rooflights and roof-top equipment such as Solar PV means that any modern building roof will have the requirement for periodic access.

Non-Fragility Classification

The Non-Fragility classification of roof products is determined in accordance with the ACR[M]001:2019 Advisory Committee for Roofsafety Test for Non-Fragility of Large Element Roofing Assemblies

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Specific advice and guidance on how to correctly install CA Group systems MUST be followed, including the correct use of fixings and sealants supplied by CA Group. For more information please refer to CA Technical Information Papers TIP-101 (System Non-Fragility Tolerances), TIP-102 (Therma-light Rooflight Installation), Tip-106 (Walkable, Non-walkable & Walking on Roof Cladding) and Tip-405 (Non-Fragility Checklist). CA Group roof liners achieve a minimum classification of Class C Non-Fragile, when fixed in accordance with our recommendations, and CA Group roof assemblies achieve Class B Non-Fragile, including rooflights, when fixed in accordance with our guidance.

Furthermore, because CA Group supplies the complete system assembly and undertakes on-site quality inspections, projects covered by the CA Group Complete Assurance Guarantee can be assured that the Non-Fragility Classification applies for the entire period of the guarantee, typically 25 years but up to 40 years, when CA Group guidance, recommendations and appropriate maintenance regime are followed. Alternative system suppliers, where components can be sourced independently, might not be able to guarantee the non-fragility classification after a period of time.

Always check the Non-Fragility classification of any roof and roof system, including rooflights, before stepping onto a roof.

ACR[M]001:2019 Non-Fragility test

‍The test for Non-Fragility requires a competent person to conduct thorough testing of assemblies, which involves dropping a 45kg bag from a height of 1.2m, testing in numerous locations on the assembly. These thorough series of tests will determine if the assembly is Class C or Class B Non-Fragile, or indeed classed as Fragile should the test be failed. Note that Class A Non-Fragile is reserved for roof products and assemblies that are intended as ‘walk-on’ systems, for regular use including by untrained individuals. Inverted roofs and structural-glass walk-on roof glazing would be examples of Class A Non-Fragile.

Walkability vs Non-fragility

‍It is important not to confuse ‘walkable and ‘Non-Fragile’. The question is often asked “are the rooflights walkable” to which the answer will always be “no, they are Non-Fragile, but no-one should ever deliberately step on a rooflight”. Stepping onto a rooflight may cause surface damage which could reduce its guaranteed life, potentially accelerating material degradation and even causing it to become fragile. And no-one should habitually step on a rooflight expecting it to be non-fragile, the next one might not be. The statistics for falls from height are still dominated by falls through rooflight assemblies, usually of older buildings.

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