Research and analysis

Fire safety: Spray foam roof insulation

Research into the fire safety risks of spray foam roof insulation and its potential impact on fire spread.

• From: Health and Safety Executive
• Published: 22 December 2025

Applies to England

Documents

Fire safety: Roof insulation fire testing (Summary and recommendations)

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Fire safety: Roof insulation fire testing (full report)

PDF, 1.7 MB, 23 pages

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Details

The research investigates how spray foam roof insulation affects roof fire performance and what this means for compliance with building regulations.  

The researchers examined whether applying spray foam insulation could reduce fire safety.

The study includes experimental testing to assess how spray foam insulation affects the fire penetration performance of three types of roof covering.

Background

The government commissioned the research as part of the investigation of real fires project. 

OFR Consultants carried out the work, and the findings and recommendations do not represent government policy.

Published 22 December 2025