The first European design guide for fire safety in timber buildings has been developed that presents information for architects, engineers, educators, regulatory authorities and building industry professionals for the fire-safe use of timber structures and wood products in buildings. The guide, available in nine languages, aims to provide the highest scientific knowledge with regard to fire safety on the European level. The guide covers the use of design codes (such as Eurocode 5 Design of timber structures), European fire standards, practical guidance and examples for fire safe design and principles of performance-based fire design.

The design guide is focusing on structural fire protection by providing the latest detailed guidance on load-bearing and separating functions of timber structures under standard fire exposure. New modelling not yet included in Eurocode 5 is presented. The guide includes information on the reaction to fire performance of wood products according to the new European system. The importance of proper detailing in building design is stressed by practical solutions. Active measures of fire protection are presented as important means in fulfilling fire safety objectives.