Miminise the risk of fire with Amplimesh®
What Are Fire Attenuation Screens?
Fire attenuation screens are specialised mesh screens designed to reduce radiant heat from a fire. They are not fireproof, and they do not completely block fire. Instead, they significantly attenuate (reduce) the heat transferred from an external fire source. This reduction in heat helps to prevent or delay ignition of building materials, minimise the spread of fire between buildings, and provide valuable protection for windows, balconies, boundary walls or areas where building codes require additional fire safety measures. They increase the chance of people safely leaving a building under the threat of fire and reduce the intensity of the fire impact while the fire is being brought under control. Put simply, the role of a fire attenuation screens is to reduce the heat entering a building through an opening so that internal elements are less likely to catch on fire.
Unlike traditional fire shutters or fire-rated glazing, fire attenuation screens are lightweight, cost-effective, and allow airflow and visibility. They are often used as a compliant alternative to fire-rated walls or special window treatments, especially in high-density or boundary-adjacent developments.
When Are Fire Attenuation Screens Required
The National Construction Code (NCC) requires openings (including windows) in buildings that are within a certain distance from the boundary to have attenuation screens fitted.
For example, these screens are required in the following circumstances:
- Class 1a buildings (single dwellings) with an external wall less than 900 mm from a side or rear allotment boundary or less than 1800 mm from another building on the same allotment.
- Class 2 building (multi-unit residential building, such as an apartment complex) with an external wall less than 900 mm from a side or rear allotment boundary or less than 1800 mm from another building on the same allotment.
Amplimesh® Fire Attenuation screens
Our fire attenuation screens have been subjected to two hours of rigorous testing by the CSIRO in accordance with the Australian Standards AS1530.4 – 2014, Appendix B7. During testing, Amplimesh® SupaScreen® was subjected to an irradiance heat of 40kW/m2 for 2-hours and demonstrated a reduction of radiant heat by up to 59%, significantly lowering the threat of fire.
Why Fire Attenuation Is Important
In many regions, especially growing urban and coastal communities such as the Gold Coast and Tweed Heads region, properties are being built closer together. This means that, in the event of a fire, radiant heat can quickly transfer from one building to another. This risk is especially relevant for multi-storey buildings, townhouses, duplexes, commercial complexes, and structures near property boundaries.
Australian Standards and the National Construction Code (NCC) outline strict requirements for fire separation in these conditions. Fire attenuation screens provide a practical solution that helps homeowners, builders, and developers meet compliance without compromising design freedom or natural light.
Key Benefits of Fire Attenuation Screens
Radiant Heat Reduction
The main function of a fire attenuation screen is to reduce radiant heat by a defined and tested percentage. Many systems are tested to demonstrate 43% reduction or greater, depending on the product and application. This heat reduction can be the difference between a fire being contained or spreading rapidly.
Compliance with Building Codes
Fire attenuation screens are used to meet boundary setback compliance as outlined by the NCC. They are suitable for developments where windows or external openings are located too close to a boundary, neighbouring building or shared wall.
Cost-Effective Alternative to Fire-Rated Construction
Fire-rated walls, fire shutters and special glazing systems can be significantly more expensive and difficult to install. Fire attenuation mesh screens offer a simpler and more economical option while still meeting safety performance requirements.
Ventilation and Natural Light
Despite providing fire protection, these screens are still breathable. They allow airflow and daylight to pass through, helping maintain indoor comfort and energy efficiency. This makes them ideal for windows, balconies, outdoor living areas, and commercial facades.
Stylish, Modern Appearance
The mesh design gives a sleek and unobtrusive finish. They do not impose on architectural style and are available in contemporary colours to coordinate with existing window frames and building finishes.
Additional Security Benefits
While not primarily marketed as security screens, many fire attenuation screen systems offer enhanced strength, impact and tamper resistance. For some properties, they may serve both purposes at once; improving fire safety and increasing protection from break-ins.
Our Materials and Manufacturing Quality
Goldco® Security provides fire attenuation screens made using high tensile stainless-steel mesh that is engineered for performance and longevity. The mesh is securely fitted using advanced retention systems designed to withstand heat, pressure and long-term exposure to outdoor conditions. Our frames are powder-coated for durability and corrosion resistance, ideal for coastal regions such as the Gold Coast and Tweed Heads region.
Professional Installation You Can Trust
Correct installation is essential for compliance. Our team works closely with builders, architects and certifiers to ensure that screens are correctly specified and installed to comply with the building approval. As Goldco® Security is QBCC registered, we supply signed Form 16 or Form 12 (as required) for our installations.
Safe and Stylish Protection
Protecting your home or commercial property is about more than just keeping intruders out. In many Australian locations, fire safety is a critical consideration in building design and compliance. These screens offer a practical and visually appealing solution for reducing the impact of radiant heat in the event of a fire, helping to slow the spread of flames and protect escape routes, neighbouring buildings, and vulnerable areas of a structure. At Goldco® Security, we supply and install high-quality fire attenuation screens engineered to meet performance and compliance requirements, while blending seamlessly into the architectural style of your property. If you would like to find, more contact our office on (07) 5572 2628 or visit our showroom.