• Follow the manufacturer's tested system details for fixing centres, layers, and screw types
• Use mechanical lifting aids or team handling for heavy fire-rated board sheets
• Wear RPE and use dust extraction when cutting fire-rated board materials
• Seal all joints and service penetrations with approved intumescent products
• Check that the correct board type and thickness are being used for each location
• Request building control inspection before concealing fire-rated assemblies
• Use working platforms at height rather than handling heavy boards on ladders
• Store boards flat on a level surface to prevent warping and damage
• Brief fixers on the critical importance of following system details precisely
• Record the fire-rated systems installed for the building handover documentation

• DON'T substitute different board types, thicknesses, or screw specifications
• DON'T increase fixing centres beyond the manufacturer's tested specification
• DON'T cut fire-rated boards without dust extraction and respiratory protection
• DON'T lift heavy boards overhead manually without team assistance or lifting aids
• DON'T leave gaps, unsealed joints, or open penetrations in fire-rated assemblies
• DON'T conceal fire-rated work before building control has inspected it
• DON'T use standard plasterboard as a substitute for fire-rated board
• DON'T stack boards higher than the manufacturer recommends during storage
• DON'T ignore damaged boards — fire rating depends on the board being intact
• DON'T assume any installer knows the system details — brief them every time

See also: Drylining Safety Awareness | Fire Stopping Installation