In the field of building safety and facility management, fire protection systems are often categorized as either prescriptive or listed. Both approaches aim to achieve verified fire-resistance performance, but the processes behind them differ significantly.
What Are Prescriptive Systems?
Prescriptive fire protection systems are based on established standards and construction methods that have been verified by regulatory bodies. These systems are documented in national or international codes—such as DIN 4102-4 in Germany or BS 476 in the UK—and specify the exact materials, configurations, and assembly methods required to achieve a predefined fire-resistance rating.
Prescriptive systems are typically used in scenarios where standardized solutions are acceptable and provide a straightforward path to compliance. At SECOTEK, we apply these systems especially in technical building management and refurbishment projects, where regulations clearly define construction assemblies and insulation techniques.
What Are Listed Systems?
In contrast, listed systems (also known as certified systems) rely on third-party testing of a specific product or assembly. These systems must be installed precisely as tested, including materials, dimensions, and installation methods, as documented in the product’s certification listing. Testing is usually performed by recognized laboratories and certification bodies such as VdS, UL, or ETA (European Technical Assessment).
Listed systems are particularly relevant in high-risk environments or where custom fire protection solutions are required—such as in server rooms, industrial facilities, or buildings with complex architectures. SECOTEK integrates listed systems when flexibility is needed without compromising regulatory compliance or safety.
Why It Matters for Facility Management
Choosing the right type of fire protection system—prescriptive or listed—is not only a matter of code compliance, but also of operational efficiency and long-term reliability. As a facility management provider, SECOTEK ensures that every system we install or maintain complies with the latest fire protection standards and is tailored to the building’s structural and operational needs.
By combining certified expertise, regulatory knowledge, and on-site experience, we help building owners and property managers navigate the complexity of fire safety regulations across Germany.
