Electrical and gas meters must be installed in specific locations due to safety regulations. Ideally, they should be positioned outside at the front of a building, but this is not always feasible.
But that’s not always possible, such as when the front of the building is on a public footpath. And in these circumstances, the meter needs to be placed indoors.
The meter serves as the main entry point for electrical or gas supply into your home or business. While generally safe, there is always a potential fire risk associated with meters.
There are strict rules which energy providers follow when installing meters, and sometimes having fire-rated meter boxes are the only solution.
What Is a Fire-Proof Meter Box?
Fire-proof meter boxes differ from fire-retardant ones. While fire-retardant boxes can slow the spread of flames, they do not have a certified fire rating, which is often a legal requirement.
Depending on the type and location of a meter, a different fire rating is required. A fire rating measures how long a meter box can withstand fire before structural failure. Common ratings include 30, 60, or 120 minutes, depending on the required protection level.
They are very similar to fire doors which are required along emergency escape routes in non-dwelling buildings and rented accommodation.
There are two ways in which a fire-rated meter box is able to prevent a fire from spreading. Their toughened construction is what makes them robust enough to withstand the intense heat of a fire.
And intumescent seals around the door’s edge and other potential weak spots also protect against fire. The seals will expand in the intense heat of a fire, and prevent smoke or flames from getting through.
How Do Fire-Proof Meter Boxes Work?
Essentially, if something should ever go wrong with a meter, the fire is contained inside the box.
When installed indoors, fire-rated meter boxes contain potential fires, reducing harm and allowing occupants to evacuate safely. Plus, they minimise the damage by containing the fire.
But it’s also worth noting that they also prevent a fire outside the box from coming into contact with the contents. As you can imagine, this can help to avert a gas explosion, in line with the box’s fire rating.
A fire-rated meter overbox provides an easy way to upgrade an existing or damaged meter box. Designed for quick installation, it securely fits over the current box and attaches to the brickwork.
With intumescent seals on the back of the unit too, it really does create a fire-tight seal.
And to ensure you have the size suitable for the job, there is a selection of standard sizes available. Plus they are suitable for installing indoors and outdoors.
However, whatever you install, make sure you check with your energy supplier. This is because gas and electric meter installers will not complete the work if they feel the box provided isn’t sufficient.
So make sure your meters are up to standard, and ensure you’re taking every precaution to prevent a fire with a fire rated meter overbox.
Should you suspect a fire, then turn off the gas or electrical supply, ONLY if it is safe to do so. Otherwise, get yourself and everybody else to safety and call 999 immediately.
