EPB Fire Rated Systems
EPB Plasterboard has developed a broad range of fire rated wall and ceiling systems to support builders, specifiers & architects to meet the NZBC requirements.
EPB Fire Rated Systems Manual
EPB Plasterboard Fire Rated Systems Manual provides details for construction of One and Two way Fire Rated walls and floor/ceiling systems to provide fire protection as required by the NZBC clause C1 to C6 “Protection From Fire”.
Version Update: April 2026
EPB Plasterboard & Fibre Cement Fire Rated Systems Manual
Combining the fire resistant attributes of both plasterboard and fibre cement, the EPB Plasterboard & Fibre Cement Fire Rated Systems Manual provides two way fire system solutions for external walls and other assemblies for residential & commercial construction.
Version Update: May 2026
Last Updated: June 2026
Last Updated: May 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Most frequent questions and answers
Do the inner plasterboard layers in a multi-layer fire rated wall need to be stopped or plastered?
In most of the multi-layer fire rated wall systems, the inner plasterboard layer does not require stopping or plastering. The sheets are simply touch-fitted in accordance with the system requirements.
Which plasterboard layer should be used for wall bracing in a multi-layer fire rated system?
In a multi-layer fire rated wall, either the inner layer or the outer layer can be used for bracing.
Does outer layer always need to be stopped in a fire-rated wall?
Not necessarily. As an alternative to stopping or plastering the outer layer, the sheet joints can be covered by installing a minimum 150 mm wide strip EPB plasterboard, placed centrally over the sheet joint and screw fixed at 300mm centres to the framing underneath.
Can the inner plasterboard layer be installed in reverse?
Yes. In all multi-layer fire rated wall systems, the inner plasterboard layer can be installed in reverse.
Is fire sealant required around the edges of the plasterboard sheets?
No. In these multi-layer fire rated wall systems, both plasterboard layers are touch fitted, and fire sealant around the sheet edges is generally not required.
Can glue be used in a fire-rated wall system?
Glue may be used where appropriate, but it must not replace mechanical fasteners in a fire rated wall system. To maintain the required FRR of the wall system, the specified screw type, length and spacing, must always comply with the specifications in EPB Fire Rated Systems Manual.