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Code of practice for the |
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Selection and application of |
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particleboard, oriented strand |
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board (OSB), cement bonded |
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particleboard and wood |
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fibreboards for specific |
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ICS 79.060.20 |
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NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW
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BS 7916:1998

Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted to Technical Committee
B/541, Wood-based panels, upon which the following bodies were represented:

Apa Engineered Wood Association

Association of British Plywood & Veneer Manufacturers
British Woodworking Federation
Council of the Forest Industries of British Columbia
Department of the Environment (Building Research Establishment)
Flat Roofing Contractors' Advisory Board
Forestry Commission
Furniture Industry Research Association
Institution of Structural Engineers
Local Authority Organizations
Mineral Bonded Board Products Federation
National Federation of Roofing Contractors
National House-Building Council
National Panel Products Association
Royal Institution of British Architects
Structural Board Association
Timber Research and Development Association
Timber Trade Federation
Wood Panel Industries Federation
Zurich Municipal Building Guarantee

This British Standard, having

been prepared under the
direction of the Sector Board for
Building and Civil Engineering,
was published under the
authority of the Standards Board
and comes into effect on
15 May 1998

 BSI 1998
Amendments issued since publication
Amd. No. Date Text affected

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference B/541
Draft for comment 97/100111 DC

ISBN 0 580 29526 5

 BS 7916:1998

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 References 1
3 Definitions 1
4 Handling, stacking, storage and conditioning of boards and safety
considerations 2
5 Selection and application of particleboard, oriented strand board (OSB)
and cement bonded particleboard 5
6 Application of boards in non-domestic flooring 9
7 Application of boards in sheathing 11
8 Application of boards in flat roofing 11
9 Application of boards in pitched roofing 14
10 Application of boards in furniture and built-in fitments 14
11 Selection and use of wood fibreboards 16
12 Grades 16
13 Selection of material 16
Annex A (informative) Nearest fit comparison between British Standard board
designations and European Standard designations 20
Annex B (informative) Determination of punching shear (concentrated load) 22
Bibliography 24
Figure 1 Ð Stacking of boards 3
Figure 2 Ð Positioning of boards over joists 8
Figure B.1 Ð Layout of punching shear test rig 23
Table 1 Ð Approximate equilibrium moisture content for different types of
board 4
Table 2 Ð Types and grades of particleboard, OSB and cement bonded
particleboard 5
Table 3 Ð Selection of boards according to category for domestic flooring 6
Table 4 Ð Joist or batten centres 6
Table 5 Ð Selection of materials for non-domestic flooring according to
category of use 10
Table 6 Ð Selection of materials for use in flat roofing according to category
of use 12
Table 7 Ð Maximum recommended centres of support for materials used in
flat roofs 13
Table 8 Ð Centres of support for materials used for lining a pitched roof of
tiles or slates 14
Table 9 Ð Selection of material for use in furniture or fitments 15
Table 10 Ð Types and grades of wet and dry process wood fibreboard 17
Table 11 Ð Guidance on the use of wood fibreboards in construction 18
Table A.1 Ð Particleboard 20
Table A.2 Ð Oriented strand board 20
Table A.3 Ð Cement bonded particleboard 20
Table A.4 Ð Wood fibreboards 21

 BSI 1998 i
BS 7916:1998

Foreword

This British Standard has been prepared by Technical Committee B/541. It

supersedes BS 5669-5:1993, which is withdrawn.
Since being superseded by a group of BS ENs, BS 1142 and BS 5669-1, -2, -3 and -4
have been declared obsolescent and will eventually be withdrawn, effectively making
BS 5669-5 unusable. The new BS EN specifications for fibreboards, particleboards,
oriented strand boards (OSB) and cement bonded particleboards, which have already
replaced the obsolescent standards, do not at present have any companion documents
giving guidance on the selection and application of the specified materials, or on the
correct methods for storing and handling them before use.
In view of this, the Technical Committee and user bodies such as the Department of
the Environment, Trade and the Regions (DETR), architects, regulatory bodies and
building insurers considered that a companion code of practice for the BS ENs was
essential to ensure that the newly specified materials were correctly selected and
applied. This British Standard is intended to fulfil that role; however, it is recognized
that a comprehensive revision of this standard will be required when a new ªpackageº
of European Standards, giving guidance on the performance of wood-based panels
used in the construction of floors, walls and roofs, becomes available. Each of these
European Standards comprises three parts: specification, requirements and test
methods. These documents are at present European pre-Standards undergoing public
enquiry.
The BS EN specifications referred to in this standard require fewer characteristics than
BS 5669-2, -3 and -4 and BS 1142. In some cases, therefore, recommended performance
levels are proposed for additional properties (for example hard body impact
resistance). The values for such properties are determined by the appropriate BS EN
method of test, referred to in the relevant clause and the list of references.
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.

Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity

from legal obligations.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii, pages 1 to
24, an inside back cover and a back cover.

ii  BSI 1998

1 Scope
This British Standard gives recommendations for the
storage, handling, selection and application of the
fibreboards, particleboards1), oriented strand boards
(OSB) and cement bonded particleboards defined
and specified in the following standards: BS EN 316,
BS EN 622-1, -2, -3, -4 and -5, BS EN 309,
BS EN 312-1, -2, -3, -4, -5, -6 and -7, BS EN 300,
BS EN 633 and BS EN 634-1 and -2.
NOTE The guidance given on the selection and use of
fibreboards is restricted to construction uses.
2 Normative References
The following normative documents contain
provisions which, through reference in this text,
constitute provisions of this British Standard. For
dated references, subsequent amendments to, or
revisions of, any of these publications do not apply.
For undated references, the latest edition of the
publication referred to applies.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this British Standard, the
following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
particleboard2)
panel material manufactured under pressure and
heat from particles of wood (wood flakes, chips,
shavings, sawdust, wafers, strands and similar)
and/or other lignocellulosic material in particle form
(flax shives, hemp shives, bagasse fragments and
similar) with the addition of an adhesive
3.2
oriented strand board (OSB)3)
multi-layered board made from strands of wood of a
predetermined shape and thickness together with a
binder. The strands in the external layers are aligned
and parallel to the board length or width; the strands
in the centre layer or layers may be randomly
oriented, or aligned, generally at right angles to the
strands of the external layers
1) Sometimes referred to as wood chipboards.
2) Repeated from BS EN 309.
3) Repeated from BS EN 300.
4) Repeated from BS EN 633.
5) Repeated from BS EN 316.
 BSI 1998
BS 7916:1998
3.3
cement bonded particleboard4)
sheet material manufactured under pressure, based
on wood or other vegetable particles bound with
hydraulic cement and possibly containing additives
3.4
wood fibreboard5)
panel material with a thickness of 1,5 mm and
greater, manufactured from lignocellulosic fibres
with application of heat and/or pressure. The bond is
derived from either:
Ð the felting of the fibres and their inherent
adhesive properties; or
Ð from a synthetic binder added to the fibres.
Other additives may be included
3.5 wet process fibreboards5)
fibreboards having a fibre moisture content of more
than 20 % at the stage of forming. The following
types are differentiated, according to their density:
3.5.1
softboards5)
(density < 400 kg/m3)
these fibreboards have thermal and acoustic
properties. They can be given additional properties,
e.g. fire retardance, moisture resistance
3.5.2
medium boards5)
(density $ 400 kg/m3 < 900 kg/m3)
Ð low density medium boards
(400 kg/m3 < 560 kg/m3)
Ð high density medium boards
(560 kg/m3 < 900 kg/m3)
they can be given additional properties, e.g. fire
retardance, moisture resistance
3.5.3
hardboards5)
(density $ 900 kg/m3)
they can be given additional properties, e.g. fire
retardance, moisture resistance, resistance against
biological attack, workability (e.g. mouldability)
3.6
dry process fibreboards (MDF)5)
fibreboards having a fibre moisture content of less
than 20 % at the forming stage, and having a density
of $ 600 kg/m3.
So-called ªmedium density fibreboardsº (MDF) are
produced with a synthetic adhesive under heat and
pressure.
They can be given additional properties, e.g. fire
retardance, moisture resistance, resistance against
biological attack
1
BS 7916:1998
3.7
major axis3)
direction in the plane of the board in which the
bending properties have the higher values
3.8
minor axis3)
direction in the plane of the board at right angles to
the major axis
3.9
dry conditions6)
conditions (defined in terms of service class 1 of
ENV 1995-1-1 for load-bearing boards) characterized
by a moisture content of the material corresponding
to a temperature of 20 ÊC and a relative humidity of
the surrounding air exceeding 65 % only for a few
weeks per year. Boards of this type are suitable for
use only in biological hazard class 1 of EN 335-3
3.10
humid conditions6)
conditions (defined in terms of service class 2 of
ENV 1995-1-1 for load-bearing boards) characterized
by a moisture content of the material corresponding
to a temperature of 20 ÊC and a relative humidity of
the surrounding air exceeding 85 % only for a few
weeks per year. Boards of this type are suitable for
use only in biological hazard classes 1 and 2 of
EN 335-3
3.11
exterior conditions6)
weathering conditions, liquid water or water vapour
in a damp but ventilated location. Boards of this type
are suitable for use in biological hazard
classes 1, 2 and 3 of EN 335-3. (Defined in terms of
service class 3 of ENV 1995-1-1 for load bearing
boards.)
3.12
general purpose use6)
all non-load bearing applications, e.g. furniture and
fitments
3.13
load-bearing use6)
use in a load-bearing construction, i.e. an organized
assembly of connected parts designed to provide
mechanical resistance and stability to the works
(see BS 5268-2 or DD ENV 1995-1-1 and/or
performance standards)
3.14
biological hazard class 17)
situation in which the wood or wood-based product
is under cover, fully protected from the weather and
not exposed to wetting
3) Repeated from BS EN 300.
6) Repeated from BS EN 622.
7) Repated from BS EN 335-1.
2  BSI 1998
3.15
biological hazard class 27)
situation in which the wood or wood-based product
is under cover and fully protected from the weather
but where high environmental humidity can lead to
occasional but not persistent wetting
3.16
biological hazard class 37)
situation in which the wood or wood-based product
is not covered and not in contact with the ground. It
is either continually exposed to the weather or is
protected from the weather but subject to frequent
wetting
3.17
biological hazard class 47)
situation in which the wood or wood-based product
is in contact with the ground or fresh water and thus
is permanently exposed to wetting
3.18
damp proof membrane
layer or sheet of material within a floor or similar
construction, or vertically within a wall, to prevent
passage of moisture
3.19
vapour control layer
layer of material restricting the transmission of
vapour
4 Handling, stacking, storage and
conditioning of boards and safety
considerations
4.1 General
The recommendations given in 4.2 to 4.5 are
fundamental to avoid damage, distortion, or
degradation of boards during transit or storage and it
is essential that they are followed.
4.2 Transport and delivery
Boards should be adequately protected by a
waterproof covering during all transportation. It is
particularly important that the edges are well
covered.
The edges of boards should be fully protected so as
to prevent damage by lashings or other banding.
Boards should be loaded so as to avoid distortion in
transit (see 4.4). Details of board type and quantity
should accompany each delivery.
4.3 Handling
The most vulnerable parts of the boards are their
edges and corners. Even if the boards are to be
further trimmed before use, they should be carefully
handled and, if necessary, edges and corners should
be additionally protected on site. This particularly
applies to profiled boards such as tongued and
grooved flooring. When handling boards it is
essential to avoid any contamination of the surface
likely to cause permanent damage or have an
adverse effect on subsequent finishing or finishes.

4.4 Stacking
Boards should be stacked flat, off the ground, and
on a level surface with all four edges flush. Stacking
on edge should be avoided wherever possible. The
ideal base is a close-boarded or slatted pallet. If this
is not possible the board should be carefully stacked
level on battens of equal thickness separated from
each other by not more than 600 mm (see Figure 1a).
The top of the pile should be covered with some
kind of protective board to prevent warping of the
topmost board. Intermediate bearers are
recommended every 10 to 15 boards and it is
essential that the bearers are placed directly above
those below. The ends of the battens should be
equidistant from the long edges of the stack and
parallel to the ends. Overhang of the boards at the
edges and ends of the stack should not
exceed 150 mm at any point.
a) Correct and incorrect method of storing boards on battens.
c) Correct method of supporting and stacking boards with a
thickness of 6 mm or less.
All dimensions in millimetres.
Figure 1 Ð Stacking of boards
 BSI 1998
BS 7916:1998
Where boards are banded, the bands should be cut
as soon as practicable after delivery to prevent them
from permanently deforming the boards, which may
expand due to moisture absorption.
Where space only permits edge stacking, the edges
should not be permitted to come into direct contact
with the floor (see Figure 1b). The haphazard leaning
of boards against walls should always be
discouraged. Where boards with a thickness of 6 mm
or less are being stacked it is recommended that
support be provided for the entire area of the board
by placing a thicker board (at least 18 mm) at the
base of the pile (see Figure 1c).
b) Correct method of edge stacking.
d) Example of providing temporary protection
(tarpaulin cover).
3
BS 7916:1998
4.5 Storage and conditioning
Boards expand on taking up moisture from the
surrounding air and shrink on losing it. The boards
listed in Tables 2 and 10 are manufactured to
dimensional tolerances allowing close fits to be
achieved on jointing and placing the boards into
position. Careful storage is therefore very important
if the boards are to be maintained in the correct
condition for their subsequent use.
All boards should be protected from rain and
accidental soaking.
Only when boards are required for conditioning
should any protective wrapping be removed. Where
the boards are to be used in warm, dry areas the
moisture content should be kept as low as possible
to avoid unacceptable shrinkage after installation.
The moisture content of the boards when they leave
the factory ranges from 2 % to 13 %. Table 1 gives the
approximate equilibrium moisture content for
different board types stored under different relative
humidities of the surrounding air.
These levels can only be taken as a general guide
and will vary with type and density of board.
Long-term storage in damp conditions can cause
damage to the surface and edges of the boards.
Boards should therefore be stored in an enclosed dry
building. Where temporary storage outside cannot be
avoided, the stacks should be covered with
polyethylene or a tarpaulin, keeping all boards well
clear of the ground (see Figure 1d).
NOTE Boards gradually attain the moisture content dictated by
the atmosphere within the building. Although it is not possible to
give precise levels, the following figures give a general indication
of the range of moisture content of boards under various
conditions:
a) continuously heated building: 7 % to 9 %;
b) intermittently heated building: 9 % to 12 %;
c) unheated new building: up to 15 %.
Any increase in moisture content causes slight expansion in the
boards and, although this also cannot be precisely defined, as a
rough guide, an increase in moisture content of 1 % increases
length and width by 0.3 mm per metre run for particleboard and
OSB and 0.4 mm per metre run for wet and dry process
fibreboards, and by 0.05 mm per metre run for cement bonded
particleboard.
Table 1 Ð Approximate equilibrium moisture content for different types of board
Relative humidity Approximate equilibrium moisture content
at 20 ÊC
Particleboard
% %
30 7 5
65 11 10
85 15 15
8) SI 1994 No. 3246
4  BSI 1998
Design precautions necessary to accommodate
movement of board are given in 5.5, 6.3, 7.3, 8.3
and 9.2, but wherever possible boards should be
allowed to reach equilibrium conditions by storing
them under the atmospheric conditions in which
they are to be used. It is recommended that the
boards are air conditioned by stacking each board
with separators in between to allow free circulation
of air.
Conditioning in air is suitable for most board types
and applications. Where higher humidities may occur
after fixing, it is recommended that hardboards and
some wet process mediumboards are conditioned
with water prior to laying. In this method, water is
brushed into the mesh face of each board and the
boards then stacked mesh face to mesh face for a
prescribed time. Water conditioning is unsuitable for
particleboards, OSB, dry process fibreboards and
certain pre-treated boards, such as flame retardant
and predecorated boards.
4.6 Safety
Persons using these materials should be familiar with
normal industrial practice.
This code of practice does not purport to address all
the safety issues associated with the normal use of
wood-based panels.
It is the responsibility of the user to establish health
and safety practices when storing or handling these
materials which will ensure compliance with
UK regulations. These are principally the Control of
Substances Hazardous to Health
regulations 1994 (COSHH)8) [1], and especially
regulations 6, 7-(6) and 10; although all the
regulations are relevant.
The principal hazardous substances associated with
the storage and use of wood-based panels are wood
dust, produced by cutting, drilling and sanding, and
formaldehyde. The latter is only a significant
consideration in respect of certain particleboards
and MDF. Both substances are subject to maximum
exposure limits (MEL).
The MEL's are only likely to be realized if materials
are worked in poorly ventilated areas, or, in the case
of formaldehyde, if very large amounts of panels are
stored in hot, confined or poorly ventilated spaces.
OSB Cement bonded Wood fibreboards
particleboard
% % %
5 5
10 8
14 12
 BS 7916:1998

5 Selection and application of 5.3 Application of boards in domestic flooring

particleboard, oriented strand board 5.3.1 Selection of material
(OSB) and cement bonded It is essential that the materials used in suspended or
particleboard floating floors or overlayments in domestic premises
be selected from the following, according to the
5.1 General category of use described in Table 3:
Clause 5 gives guidance on selection and application a) particleboards P5 conforming to
of the types and grades of particleboard, OSB and BS EN 312-5 and P7 conforming to BS EN 312-7;
cement bonded particleboard which can be
b) oriented strand board, type OSB/2, OSB/3 or
considered for use in certain applications. Only
OSB/4 conforming to BS EN 300;
common uses in the construction industry in the
case of particleboard, OSB and cement bonded c) cement bonded particleboard conforming to
particleboad, and use in furniture and built-in BS EN 634-2.
fitments are covered. It is not intended that the use NOTE Oriented strand board should not be used as the floating
of the materials is restricted solely to these overlay board on a continuously supported floating floor (5.3.3.1).
applications.
Additional guidance on the use of boards in specific
applications can be found in the codes and standards
referred to in this clause.
NOTE Until such time as the introduction of appropriate
European Standards, grade references given in other British
Standards referred to in this standard will need to be substituted
with the relevant grades as listed in 5.3.1, 6.1, 7.1, 8.1, 9.1 and
10.2. Comparative guidance is given in annex A.

5.2 Grades
Table 2 shows the types and grades of
particleboards, OSB and cement bonded
particleboards specified in the BS ENs referred to in
this standard.

Table 2 Ð Types and grades of particleboard, OSB and cement bonded particleboard
Board type Grade References
Particleboard
General purpose (for use in dry conditions) P2 BS EN 312-2
Boards for interior fitments (including furniture) (for use in dry conditions) P3 BS EN 312-3
Load bearing (for use in dry conditions) P4 BS EN 312-4
Load bearing (for use in humid conditions) P5 BS EN 312-5
Heavy duty load bearing (for use in dry conditions) P6 BS EN 312-6
Heavy duty load bearing (for use in humid conditions) P7 BS EN 312-7

Oriented strand board

General purpose and boards for interior fitments (including furniture) OSB/1 BS EN 300
(for use in dry conditions)
Load bearing (for use in dry conditions) OSB/2 BS EN 300
Load bearing (for use in humid conditions) OSB/3 BS EN 300
Heavy duty load bearing (for use in humid conditions) OSB/4 BS EN 300

Cement bonded particleboard

OPC (ordinary Portland cement) (for use in dry, humid and exterior Ð BS EN 634-2
conditions)

 BSI 1998 5
BS 7916:1998

Table 3 Ð Selection of boards according to category for domestic flooring

Conditions of use Material
Particleboard OSB Cement bonded
particleboard
Installed dry, with no risk of wetting in P5, P7 OSB/2, OSB/3, OSB/4 Suitable
service
Risk of wetting during installation or risk of P5, P7 OSB/3, OSB/4 Suitable
occasional wetting or condensation in
service

5.3.2 Hard body impact resistance
It is essential that materials used in domestic
flooring have adequate impact resistance. When
tested in accordance with BS EN 1128, in both the
jointed or un-jointed mode, all the materials listed
in 5.3.1a), b) and c) should have a resistance to hard
body impact of not less than 500 mm drop height.
NOTE Hard body impact resistance does not form part of the
specification of any of these materials. Verification of compliance
with this property should therefore be obtained from the supplier.
5.3.3 Design
5.3.3.1 Boards on continuous support
Material for boards on continuous support should be
selected from those listed in 5.3.1. The thickness of
boards used for this application is related to the
stiffness and compressive strength of the continuous
underlay.
5.3.3.2 Boards on joists or battens
The joist or batten spacings given in Table 4 are
maximum values for a uniformly distributed load
of 1.5 kN/m2.9)
5.4 Laying and fixing
5.4.1 Boards on continuous support
Before laying a continuously supported floating floor,
it is essential that the subfloor is adequately
prepared. Surface regularity should be class SR2 or
better to BS 8204-1, i.e. maximum 5 mm deviation
from under a 3 m straight edge. Particular attention
should be paid to movement joints and to screed and
bay junctions so as to avoid undulations and other
surface irregularities.
Pre-cast concrete floors should have a level flat
surface. If deviations occur a levelling screed may be
required.
In all cases where boards are used over in situ
concrete floor construction, a damp proof membrane
(DPM) should be positioned over the slab to protect
the floor deck from residual moisture.
NOTE 1 A DPM above the slab may not be necessary if there is a
DPM below the slab and the slab moisture content has been
determined as being below 5 %. With polymer modified concrete
and screeds, the guidelines of drying times of one month for
each 25 mm of slab thickness cannot be relied on. Even if the
surface appears dry, moisture can still be retained inside the
concrete or screed.
NOTE 2 Although pre-cast concrete floors are essentially dry,
protection with a vapour control layer (on all floor levels) is
needed to protect against residual moisture resulting from
construction or exposure to weather.
Special care should be taken to ensure that boards
are laid in a dry condition after all wet site
operations such as plastering have been completed.
In dry construction, e.g. timber frame, the overlay
floor should only be installed as a working platform
once the building is watertight. After laying, the floor
should be protected from dirt and moisture. Any
factory applied protective layer should be retained in
place for as long as possible.
A moisture and vapour control layer providing a
resistance to water vapour permeability of at
least 200 MN´s/g e.g. a minimum thickness of 250 mm
(1000 gauge) should be laid above the insulation
layer and should be upturned by at least 38 mm
around perimeter walls. Any joints in the sheet
should be lapped by at least 150 mm and the joints
taped with a vapour resistant tape.

Table 4 Ð Joist or batten centres

Dimensions in millimetres
Material Maximuma joist/batten centres for different material thicknesses
15 mm 18/19 mm 22 mm

Particleboard types P5 and P7 Ð 450 610

OSB/22) Ð 450 610
OSB/32), OSB/42) 450 610 Ð
Cement bonded particleboard Ð 450 610
a See 5.4.2.
b It is essential that OSB is laid with the major axis (indicated on the board) at right angles to the support. (See 5.4.2.)

9) See type A (self-contained dwelling units) in Table 1 of BS 6399-1:1996.

6  BSI 1998

Proprietary composite floor panels with pre-bonded
plastics insulation of not less than 25 mm have a
relatively high vapour resistance, and it is therefore
acceptable to locate the vapour control layer
beneath the insulation.
Joints along the shorter edges should be staggered.
It is essential that all tongued and grooved joints are
glued.
5.4.2 Boards on a self-supporting floating floor
(with battens)
Timber battens should be preservatively treated in
accordance with BS 5589. Battens should have a
moisture content not exceeding 20 %. Where battens
have been treated with a water-borne preservative
they should be re-dried to a moisture content not
exceeding 20 %.
Battens should not be less than 47 mm wide and the
depth should be greater than the insulation thickness
to allow for shrinkage of the batten resulting from
drying to its equilibrium moisture content. Battens
should be placed at appropriate centres
(see 5.3.3.2).
Before laying the battens, the sub-floor should be
adequately prepared, and moisture conditions
satisfied, as described in 5.4.1. Any gaps beneath the
battens caused by unevenness in the sub-structure
should be packed with a durable material
(e.g. preservatively treated timber, tempered
hardboard, dry mix sand and cement mortar).
Flooring systems designed for acoustic performance
may utilize resilient materials.
A moisture and vapour control layer providing a
resistance of at least 200 MN´s/g e.g. a minimum
thickness of 250 mm (minimum 1000 gauge) should be
laid above the battens and insulation layer and
should be upturned by at least 38 mm around
perimeter walls. Any joints in the sheet should be
lapped by at least 150 mm and the joints taped with a
vapour resistant tape.
 BSI 1998
BS 7916:1998
5.4.3 Positioning and fixing boards over joists
and battens
It is essential that square-edged boards are supported
continuously along all edges. This is best achieved
for particleboards and for cement-bonded
particleboards by positioning them with their longer
edges butt-jointed on the centreline of a joist or
batten and supporting the short edges by noggings or
counter-battens (see Figure 2a).
Tongued and grooved boards should be laid with
their longer edges across the supports. It is essential
that the joints between the shorter edges are
supported along the centreline of a joist or batten.
To avoid the need for additional support the joist
centres used may need to be less than those given in
Table 4 to accommodate the actual board
dimensions. Support under the long edges of tongued
and grooved boards between correctly spaced joists
is not required.
For both square edged and tongued and grooved
OSB it is essential that they are laid with their long
edges across the joists (see Figure 2b) since they are
stronger parallel to the major axis (see 3.7).
Additionally, for square edged OSB, it is essential
that the long edges are supported by noggings
(not shown in Figure 2b).
When using all types of either square edged or
tongued and grooved boards, joints along the shorter
edges should be staggered and the board length
should generally be not less than two joist spacings.
It is essential that edges around the perimeter of the
floor are continuously supported, either on joists or
noggings.
7
BS 7916:1998

a) Square-edged boards (other than OSB)

b) Tongued and grooved boards and square edged OSB.

NOTE 1 A similar arrangement applies to boards laid over battens.
NOTE 2 In the case of square edged OSB it is essential that the long edges are
supported by noggings (not shown).

Figure 2 Ð Positioning of boards over joists

8  BSI 1998

5.4.4 Fixing
All boards should be fastened firmly to joists,
battens or, when used as an overlayment, to an
existing timber floor (see BS 8201). Flat headed ring
shanked nails (3 mm in diameter) or screws should
be used. Unless modified screws are used, they
should be inserted through pre-drilled and
countersunk clearance holes. Their length should be
not less than 2.5 3 thickness of the board. Unless
power nailing is used, cement bounded
particleboards greater than 12 mm in thickness
should be pre-drilled before nailing. When fixing
boards to a steel supporting framework, self-tapping
screws of not less than 4 mm diameter should be
used. The screw point should extend at least 13 mm
below the underside of the steel support.
Fastenings should be spaced at centres not more
than 300 mm apart along both the continuously
supported edges and the intermediate supports.
Fastenings should be at least 8 mm from the edge of
the board. Nail heads should be punched 2 mm
to 3 mm below the surface of the board and screws
should be countersunk. Boards should be glued to
the joists and tongued and grooved joints should
also be glued.
To reduce the risk of creaking, the moisture content
of timber joists should be as near as possible to the
service condition10) when the boards are fixed.
NOTE Polyvinyl acetate (PVAC) adhesive conforming to at least
durability class D1 of BS EN 204 is satisfactory for gluing tongued
and grooved joints, and boards to joists.
5.5 Allowing for movement
It is necessary to allow for possible expansion by
providing a gap whenever boards abut any rigid
upstand such as a perimeter wall, column or
fireplace surround. This gap should be not less
than 10 mm wide. Large floors may need a wider gap
and intermediate expansion gaps to allow for a
possible overall expansion of 2 mm per metre length
of floor. The expansion gaps should be either:
a) left open and masked by a skirting or loose
cover strip; or
b) filled with an easily compressible material, such
as cork.
It is essential that they are kept free from plaster,
mortar droppings and other debris during
construction.
NOTE Although expansion is the most usual movement
encountered, shrinkage can occur in areas with higher than
average temperatures, e.g. nursing homes, hospitals etc. (See 4.5.)
10) See BS 5268-2.
 BSI 1998
BS 7916:1998
6 Application of boards in
non-domestic flooring
6.1 Selection of material
6.1.1 Suitable board types
It is essential, when selecting boards from those
listed below, that the conditions of use given in
Table 5 are carefully considered. Particleboards
P4, P6 and OSB/2 should not be used where there is
a possibility of their becoming wet in service.
The following are suitable board types:
a) particleboard P4, conforming to BS EN 312-4,
P5 conforming to BS EN 312-5, P6 conforming to
BS EN 312-6 or P7 conforming to BS EN 312-7;
b) oriented strand board type OSB/2, OSB/3 or
OSB/4, conforming to BS EN 300;
c) cement bonded particleboard conforming to
BS EN 634-2.
NOTE Oriented strand board should not be used as the floating
overlay board on a continuously supported floating floor.
6.1.2 Impact resistance
It is essential that materials used in flooring or
special floor construction with restricted deflection
have adequate impact resistance for the intended end
use.
6.1.3 Punching shear (concentrated load)
BS 6399-1 lists floor loadings appropriate to different
occupancy classes of buildings (e.g. residential,
office, retail, industrial, public assembly and
storage). Designers should be aware of the special
problems in use that may relate to boards in order to
satisfy certain concentrated load requirements.
If required by a design, the punching shear capacity
of the selected board type should be determined by
testing in accordance with the method described in
annex B. The design value based on the test results
may be derived by applying the procedures and
factors given in the National Application
Document, 6.2 of DD ENV 1995-1-1:1994.
9
BS 7916:1998

Table 5 Ð Selection of materials for non-domestic flooring according to category of use

Category Design requirements Clause Conditions of use
Dry installation Risk of wetting Risk of regular
during wetting in
installation and service
risk of
occasional
wetting in
service
1. Floating-floor No risk of personal injury in the event of 6.2.1 P4, P5, P6, P7 P5, P7 Cement bonded
constructions in floor failure particleboard
which boards are OSB/2, OSB/3, OSB/4
continuously OSB/3,OSB/4
supported
Cement bonded Cement bonded
particleboard particleboard
2. Composite Subject to compliance with performance 6.2.2 P4, P5, P6, P7 P5, P7 Cement bonded
floors in which the testing using appropriate loadings in OSB/2, OSB/3 OSB/3, OSB/4 particleboard
board is only BS 6399-1 and designed in accordance OSB/4
partially load with prototype testing as defined in
bearing BS 5268-2
Cement bonded Cement bonded
particleboard particleboard
3. Light duty Minimum board thickness 22 mm 6.2.3 P4, P5, P6, P7 P5, P7 Not suitable
suspended floors at 400 mm joist centres
(including floating
battened floors
with discontinuous
support)
Restricted to
uniformly
distributed load
#2.5 kN/m2 and
concentrated load
#2.7 kN
Minimum board thickness 18 mm 6.2.3 OSB/2,OSB/3, OSB/3, OSB/4 Not suitable
at 400 mm joist centres OSB/4
Subject to compliance with performance 6.2.3 P4, P5, P6, P7 P5, P7 Cement bonded
testing using the appropriate loadings in particleboard
BS 6399-1 and designed in accordance
with prototype testing as defined in
BS 5268-2
OSB/2, OSB/3, OSB/3, OSB/4
OSB/4
Cement bonded Cement bonded
particleboard particleboard
4. Heavy duty Until structural design values are available, recourse should be made to prototype testing in accordance with
suspended floors BS 5268-2. Only those materials which meet the design criteria in such tests may be used.
(e.g. warehouses,
storage areas and
mezzanine floors)
Uniformly
distributed load
>2.5 kN/m2 and
concentrated load
>2.7 kN

10  BSI 1998

6.2 Design
6.2.1 Floating floor constructions in which
boards are continuously supported
NOTE See category 1 in Table 5.
Materials should be selected from those listed
in 5.3.1. The thickness of boards used for this
application is related to the stiffness and
compressive strength of the continuous underlay.
6.2.2 Composite floors incorporating wood
based panels, e.g. platform floors and access
floors
NOTE See category 2 in Table 5.
For composite floors it is recommended that type P4,
P5, P6 or P7 particleboard, type OSB/2, OSB/3 or
OSB/4, or cement bonded particleboard should be
used. Where there is a risk of wetting during
installation or occasional wetting in service, only
type P5 or P7 particleboard, type OSB/3, OSB/4, or
cement bonded particleboard are recommended.
6.2.3 Light duty suspended floors including
floating battened floors with discontinuous
support
General offices (see type B; general offices and work
areas not considered elsewhere) are defined in
Table 1 of BS 6399-1:1996 in terms of a maximum
uniformly distributed load no greater than 2.5 kN/m2
and a concentrated load no greater than 2.7 kN.
NOTE See category 3 in Table 5.
For light duty suspended floors, it is recommended
that type P4, P5, P6 or P7 particleboard or type
OSB/3, OSB/4 should be used. Where types P4 or
P5 particleboard are used, it is essential that the
minimum board thickness is not less than 22 mm
with a corresponding maximum joist spacing
of 400 mm. Where OSB/3 or OSB/4 are used it is
essential that board thickness should not be less
than 18 mm. Where there is a risk of wetting during
installation or in service, only types P5 or P7
particleboard, OSB/3, OSB/4 or cement bonded
particleboard are recommended.
6.2.4 Heavy duty suspended floors
Heavy duty suspended floors are defined in terms of
a maximum uniformly distributed load greater
than 2.5 kN/m2 or concentrated load greater
than 2.7 kN.
NOTE See category 4 in Table 5.
Until structural design values are available, recourse
should be made to prototype testing in accordance
with BS 5268-2. Only those materials which meet the
design criteria in such tests may be used.
6.3 Laying and fixing
The recommendations of 5.4 relating to board
orientation, provision of gaps and gluing also apply
to non-domestic floors.
 BSI 1998
BS 7916:1998
7 Application of boards in sheathing
7.1 Selection of material
It is essential that materials used in timber framed
wall sheathing be selected from the following:
a) particleboard P5 conforming to BS EN 312-5,
or P7 conforming to BS EN 312-7;
b) oriented strand board type OSB/3, or OSB/4,
conforming to BS EN 300;
c) cement bonded particleboard conforming to
BS EN 634-2.
7.2 Design
The racking resistance of boards should either be as
given in Table 2 of BS 5268-6.1:1996 or obtained by
load testing, in accordance with BS 5268-6.1.
7.3 Fabrication
Fabrication should be carried out in such a way that
any variations in panel dimensions, member sizes,
sheathing and joint details are within the tolerances
given in BS 5268-6.1.
It is necessary to allow for possible expansion by
providing a 3 mm gap between adjacent boards and
a 10 mm gap between the panel and any abutment.
Long walls may need a wider gap and intermediate
expansion gaps to allow for a possible overall
expansion of 2 mm per metre length of wall. This is
in addition to the 3 mm gap required for expansion
between each individual panel.
7.4 Fire protection
Where mandatory regulations require restriction on
the spread of flame, such a requirement should be
observed.
8 Application of boards in flat roofing
8.1 Selection of material
It is essential that boards used as decks in flat
roofing be selected from the following list according
to the category of use given in Table 7:
a) particleboard P5 conforming to BS EN 312-5
or P7 conforming to BS EN 312-7;
b) oriented strand board type OSB/2, OSB/3 or
OSB/4 conforming to BS EN 300;
c) cement bonded particleboard conforming to
BS EN 634-2.
It is essential that materials used in the applications
given in b) in Table 6 should have adequate
resistance to hard body impact. For these
applications the recommendations in 5.3.2 should be
followed.
11
BS 7916:1998

8.2 Design 8.3.2 Protection of boards

It is essential that the maximum span between joists
for boards of different thicknesses is not greater
than the values given in Table 7.
The values in Table 7 are given on the assumption
that the roof will be constructed in accordance with
accepted design principles for weather resistance,
leakage and control of condensation within the roof.
If the roof construction necessitates the provision of
ventilation, the design should be such as to create an
unrestricted cross flow of air through the structure.
The rate of ventilation depends on the design and
occupancy condition of the building, but should at
least meet the minimum recommendations of
BS 5250.
8.3 Laying
8.3.1 General
Laying and fixing instructions may differ depending
on the covering material to be used. The general
recommendations given in 8.3.2 to 8.3.4 apply to the
majority of flat roof constructions.
During laying, materials should be protected from
the weather and should be dry when the
weatherproof membrane is applied. Alternatively,
boards listed in 8.1 and protected with
weather-resistant covering, such as prefelting, a
resin-film overlay, or metal foil, may be selected in
this case.
It is essential that joints in boards already protected
with a weather-resistant covering are taped on the
day of laying. In this way a temporary protection can
be obtained without the need for further covering.
The protective layer should not be regarded as part
of a permanent water proofing specification.

Table 6 Ð Selection of materials for use in flat roofing according to category of use
Roof types Particleboard OSB Cement bonded
particleboard
Warm deck
a) Flat roofs to buildings where the roof insulation
occurs above the supporting deck and the thermal
design is such that it substantially eliminates the
possibility of condensation within the roof P5, P7 OSB/3, OSB/4
b) Flat roofs to buildings where the roof insulation
occurs above the supporting deck but the thermal
design does not eliminate the possibility of
condensation or where occupancy conditions are Should not be Should not be
likely to lead to high levels of humidity used used Suitable for all
Cold deck roof types
c) Flat roofs to small garages and other similar OSB/2, OSB/3,
unoccupied small buildings without a ceiling P5, P7 OSB/4
d) Flat roofs to buildings where the insulation
occurs below the supporting deck and adequate
through ventilation of the void between the
insulation and the deck is provided, where a vapour
check at ceiling level is installed and where high
humidity conditions are not likely to occur P5, P7 OSB/3, OSB/4
NOTE The different occupancy of compartments under a common roof should be taken into account in determining the humidity to
be used in the assessment. For example, where there is adequate cross ventilation between compartments, the occupancy humidity
should be obtained by assessing that prevailing in each compartment in proportion to the roof areas of the compartments.

12  BSI 1998
 BS 7916:1998

Table 7 Ð Maximum recommended centres of support for materials used in flat roofs
Dimensions in millimetres
Application Board Particleboarda OSBa Cement
thickness bonded
Types P5 and Type OSB/2 Type OSB/3, particleboarda
P7 OSB/4
a) Roofs of small garages and
similar buildings (without access
except for maintenance) 11 to 12 Ð Ð 400 Ð
15 to 16 450 450 610 400
18 to 19 610 610 610 610
b) Roofs over habitable areas
where access is provided
(in addition to maintenance and
repair) 15 to 16 Ð Ð 450 450
18 to 19 Ð Ð 610 450
22 610 Ð 610 610
c) Roofs over habitable areas
where no access is provided
(other than that necessary for
maintenance and repair) 11 to 12 Ð Ð 450 300
15 to 16 Ð Ð 610 450
18 to 19 450 Ð 610 450
22 610 Ð 610 610
a ªÐº indicates ªnot suitableº.
NOTE 1 Spans relating to use may alternatively be determined by design using the appropriate characteristic values given in
prEN 12369 and modification factors in respect of load duration, strength and deflection given in DD ENV 1995-1-1.
NOTE 2 While it is accepted that the imposed loads in applications a) and c) are similar, site experience has shown that the thickness
quoted for garage and similar buildings provides an adequate construction in these lower risk situations.
NOTE 3 To avoid the need for additional support, the joist centres used may need to be less than those given above to accommodate
the actual board dimensions.

8.3.3 Positioning boards over joists
Boards should be positioned as recommended
in 5.4.3.
8.3.4 Fixing
Boards should normally be fixed directly to the
supporting structure by nailing at 100 mm centres.
The lengths of the nails should be at least 2.5 3 the
board thickness. Boards should be fastened firmly to
the supporting structure. The wind uplift resistance
of fastenings should be checked where relevant. Flat
headed annular grooved nails (3 mm in diameter)
and screws have superior holding power and should
be used in preference to plain shank nails. Unless
power nailing is used, cement bonded particleboards
greater than 12 mm thickness should be pre-drilled
before nailing, or, alternatively, where screws are
used, they should be inserted through pre-drilled and
countersunk clearance holes.
When fixing boards to a steel supporting framework,
self-tapping screws of not less than 4 mm diameter
should be used. The screw point should extend at
least 13 mm below the underside of the steel
support.
Provision should be made for possible expansion of
the boards by allowing a gap between the edges of
the boards and the perimeter wall or other abutment.
A gap should be provided at the rate of 2 mm per
metre run. A perimeter gap of minimum width 10 mm
should be used.
In addition, for square edged boards, a gap of 3 mm
should be left around the perimeter of each board.

 BSI 1998 13
BS 7916:1998

9 Application of boards in pitched 10.1.2 Core boards

roofing
9.1 Selection of material
It is essential that boards used in pitched roofs
should be selected from the following:
a) particleboard P5 conforming to BS EN 312-5,
or P7 conforming to BS EN 312-7;
b) oriented strand board type OSB/3 or OSB/4,
conforming to BS EN 300;
c) cement bonded particleboard conforming to
BS EN 634-2.
9.2 Design
Boards may be used in pitched roofs in one of the
following ways:
a) as a supporting decking to roof coverings in
accordance with 9.1 and Table 8;
b) as a lining to a roof of tiles or slates (sarking)
in accordance with 9.1 and laid in accordance
with 8.3, where applicable, with the following
additional recommendations:
1) suitable roof underlays in accordance with
BS 5534:1997 should be laid over the
particleboard;
2) centres of support should not exceed those
given in Table 8.
Only cement bonded particleboard may be used in
pitched roofs in continuously humid conditions.
10 Application of boards in furniture
and built-in fitments
10.1 Application categories
10.1.1 General
The two main application categories of use in
furniture and built-in fitments are differentiated by
the surface and edging treatments applied to the
materials. Additional categories cover applications
requiring enhanced strength or improved resistance
to moisture.
Within this category boards are used essentially as
core materials for the manufacture of panels. The
appearance, surface characteristics and stiffness in
bending of the panels are determined largely by the
presence of relatively thick surfacing materials, such
as wood veneers and plastics laminates of
thickness 0.5 mm or greater.
The resistance of the panel edges to impact damage
and the strength of joints between panels are
determined largely by the presence of solid wood
lippings of 10 mm thickness or greater bonded to the
edges of the panels.
Typical applications include domestic table tops and
panels with moulded wood edges for use in
reproduction furniture.
10.1.3 Panel boards
Within this category, the quality of the boards has a
major effect on the performance of the finished
panels as the surfacing and edging materials
contribute little to strength properties. Panels to be
surfaced with wood veneers, plastics laminates, foils
or liquid applied finishes with thicknesses less
than 0.5 mm and panels edged with wood lippings
less than 10 mm width, or with strip edging
materials, are included in this category. Panels with
postformed edge treatments and wrapped mouldings
are also included, as a board with enhanced core
strength is required to ensure no breakout of core
particles when the edges are profiled.
Typical applications include case goods, kitchen
units and shop fitments.
10.1.4 Boards with enhanced impact resistance
Boards used for some applications, such as
upholstered chair frames, bed bases and chair seats,
may require a high level of impact resistance in
order to resist certain types of damage associated
with the manufacturing process or conditions of use
in these items.

Table 8 Ð Centres of support for materials used for lining a pitched roof of tiles or slates
Dimensions in millimetres
Thickness Particleboard types P5 and P7 OSB/3, OSB/4 Cement bonded particleboard
8 to 9 Ð 610a 300
11 to 12 400 450 450
15 to 16 450 610 500
18 to 19 610 610 610
a Suitable only where roof coverings (e.g. slates and tiles) are independently supported on battens, secured to counter battens. In all
other cases, roof coverings may be attached directly to the board.
NOTE 1 Spans relating to the use of types P5 and P7 should be determined by design using the appropriate modification factors in
respect of load durations, strength and deflection given in DD ENV 1995-1-1.
NOTE 2 Where boards form part of a composite construction, the figures may vary in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations.
NOTE 3 To avoid the need for additional support, the joist centres used may need to be less than those given above to accommodate
the actual board dimensions.

14  BSI 1998

10.1.5 Boards with enhanced stiffness in
bending
Boards used for load bearing horizontal surfaces may
require enhanced stiffness in bending to limit
deflection in heavy duty applications.
Deflection limits for different use categories are
specified in BS 4875-7 and -8. In assessing the
requirements of boards for these uses, account may
be taken of the stiffening effect of wood veneers,
plastics laminates or other stiff surfacing materials
bonded to both faces. In addition to ensuring an
acceptable maximum initial deflection, some
allowance should be made at the design stage for
subsequent creep under sustained load conditions.
Typical applications include office storage systems,
library book shelves and contract shelving systems.
10.1.6 Boards with improved moisture
resistance
Wood-based panels used for applications where they
may be subject to intermittent wetting or prolonged
exposure to conditions in excess of 85 % r.h. should
be constructed from boards with improved
resistance to moisture. Additionally, surface and
edges should be adequately sealed to reduce the risk
of water penetration.
Typical applications include kitchen worktops and
bathroom fitments.
10.2 Selection of materials
It is essential that boards used for the construction
of furniture or fitments be selected from the types
given in Table 9.
10.3 Additional properties
10.3.1 General
Boards used for some furniture applications may
require additional characteristics to those covered by
the basic strength requirements. These are given in
10.3.2 to 10.3.4.
10.3.2 Flatness
Flatness shall be in accordance with 6.4 of
BS 4965:1991, when tested using either of the
methods described in annex C of BS 4965:1991.
Table 9 Ð Selection of material for use in furniture or fitments
Application/requirement
Particleboard
Core boards P3 OSB/1,
Panel boards P3 OSB/1,
Enhanced stiffness P3, P4, P5, P6, P7 OSB/1,
Improved moisture P5, P7 OSB/3,
resistance
 BSI 1998
BS 7916:1998
10.3.3 Machinability of boards
Various factors such as wood type, binder content,
wood density and grit content affect the
machinability of boards. Good machining
characteristics are important requirements for boards
which are to be edge profiled or used for vee
grooving applications. A method for assessing the
grit content of boards is given in ISO 3340. Where
intensive machining operations such as profile
moulding and vee grooving are to be carried out,
boards with a grit content (assessed on a sample of
full board thickness) not exceeding 0.05 % should be
selected or specified.
10.3.4 Surface texture
Boards to be used for laminating with
resin-impregnated papers or thermoplastic foils, or
for finishing by direct painting or printing, should
have a finer surface texture, no large individual chips
and a higher resistance to changes in surface texture
than boards that are to be surfaced with stiff
surfacing skins such as wood veneer or plastics
laminates.
10.4 Design
10.4.1 Edge treatments
Where boards are used for applications where water
spillage is likely, for example in kitchen or bathroom
fitments, all edges should be effectively sealed with
adhesive bonded edging tape or otherwise treated
with a sealant.
10.4.2 Screws and fittings
Requirements for the resistance to the axial
withdrawal of screws do not form part of the
specifications of the particleboards referred to in this
standard; however, it is recommended that, when
tested in accordance with BS EN 320, the mean
resistance to axial withdrawal of wood screws from
the face of the board shall be greater than 500 N, and
greater than 450 N from the edge.
Additional screwholding strength can be achieved by
using particle board screws or fittings which
distribute applied loads over the widest possible
area.
Material types
Oriented strand board Cement bonded particleboard
OSB/2, OSB/3, OSB/4 Boards should be sanded
OSB/2, OSB/3, OSB/4 Boards should be sanded
OSB/2, OSB/3, OSB/4 Ð
OSB/4 Ð
15
BS 7916:1998

11 Selection and use of wood 12 Grades

fibreboards Table 10 lists the wood fibreboard types from which
grades for a particular application should be
11.1 General
selected.
This clause gives guidance on the types and grades
of wood fibreboard which can be considered for use
in various applications. The list of applications 13 Selection of material
covers only those common uses in the construction Table 11 gives guidance on boards which can be
industry. It is not intended that the use of the considered for use in various construction related
materials is restricted solely to these applications. applications. It also lists those design considerations
The choice of fibreboard for a particular application which may be important when selecting between
will depend on a number of factors, of which different board types.
strength and durability will be paramount. Guidance
on the use of wood fibreboards in specific
applications can be found in the standards referred
to in this clause.
Where appropriate standards are not available for a
particular application, users should refer to
manufacturer's guidance; alternatively, it may be
necessary to undertake appropriate type testing
and/or third party assessment to demonstrate
suitability for purpose.
NOTE Until such time as the introduction of appropriate
European Standards, grade references given in the British
Standards referred to in this standard will need to be substituted
with the relevant grades listed in Tables 10 and 11. Comparative
guidance is given in annex A.

16  BSI 1998
 BS 7916:1998

Table 10 Ð Types and grades of wet and dry process wood fibreboard
Board type Grade References
Softboard
General purpose (for use in dry conditions) SB
General purpose (for use in humid conditions) SB.H
General purpose (for use in exterior conditions) SB.E BS EN 622-4
Load bearing (for use in dry conditions) SB.LS
Load bearing (for use in humid conditions) SB.HLSb
Low density medium board
General purpose (for use in dry conditions) MBL
General purpose (for use in humid conditions) MBL.H BS EN 622-3
General purpose (for use in exterior conditions) MBL.E
High density mediumboard
General purpose (for use in dry conditions) MBH
General purpose (for use in humid conditions) MBH.H
General purpose (for use in exterior conditions) MBH.E
Load bearing (for use in dry conditions) MBH.LA1 BS EN 622-3
Heavy duty load bearing (for use in dry conditions) MBH.LA2
Load bearing (for use in humid conditions) MBH.HLS1b
Heavy duty load bearing (for use in humid conditions) MBH.HLS2b
Hardboard
General purpose (for use in dry conditions) HB
General purpose (for use in humid conditions) HB.H
General purpose (for use in exterior conditions) HB.E BS EN 622-2
Load bearing (for use in dry conditions) HB.LA
Load bearing (for use in humid conditions) HB.HLA1
Heavy duty load bearing (for use in humid conditions) HB.HLA2
Medium density fibreboard (MDF)
General purpose (for use in dry conditions) MDF
General purpose (for use in humid conditions) MDF.H (option 1)a
MDF.H (option 2)a
Load bearing (for use in dry conditions) MDF.LA BS EN 622-5
Load bearing (for use in humid conditions) MDF.HLS (option 1)ab
MDF.HLS (option 2)ab
a Two options are available:
Ð option 1 boards are suitable for interior humid conditions only;
Ð option 2 boards are suitable for use uncoated in environments falling under biological hazard classes 1 and 2 of BS EN 335-3.
For exterior applications, only MDF.H and MDF.HLS (option 2) boards should be used. Unless the inherent and/or conferred properties
of the board are adequate, it would be necessary to complement an option 2 board with an appropriate exterior coating system prior to
using it in a biological hazard class 3 environment (see 3.14 to 3.17).
Manufacturer's guidance should be sought on the use and protection of option 2 boards.
b These boards are restricted under humid conditions to instantaneous or short periods of loading.

 BSI 1998 17
BS 7916:1998

Table 11 Ð Guidance on the use of wood fibreboards in construction

Application Softboard Mediumboard Hardboard Medium Design consideration Application
density references
fibreboard
(MDF)
Architectural MDF - Strength and stability BS 1186-3
mouldings MDF.H - Humidity condition
MDF.LA
MDF.HLS
Box and I-beam HB.HLA2 - Strength and stability BS 5268-2
webs
External MBL.E HB.E MDF.H - Durability
(non-structural)a MBH.E (option 2) - Surface finishes
MDF.HLS
(option 2)
Flat roof SB.H - Durability BS 6229
insulation overlay SB.E
SB.HLS
Formwork lining HB.H - Durability
HB.E - Number of re-uses
HB.HLA1 - Strength and stability
HB.HLA2
Internal wallb SB MBL HB MDF - Strength and stability
lining SB.LS MBH HB.H MDF.H - Dimensional movement
MBL.H HB.LA MDF.LA - Performance in fire
MBH.H HB.HLA1 MDF.HLS - Impact resistance
MBH.LA1 HB.HLA2 - Surface coatings
MBH.LA2
MBH.HLS1
MBH.HLS2
Movement joint SB.H - Durability DoE
fillers SB.E - Compression and Specification for
recovery road and bridge
works
Overlay to SB: Timber floors MBH HB MDF - Strength and stability BS 8201
structural floors SB.LS MBH.H HB.H MDF.H - Wear resistance
SB.H and MBH.LA1 HB.LA MDF.LA - Humidity condition
SB.HLS: Timber MBH.LA2 HB.HLA1 MDF.HLS - Surface coverings
and concrete
floors MBH.HLS1 HB.HLA2 - Dimensional movement
MBH.HLS2

18  BSI 1998
 BS 7916:1998

Table 11 Ð Guidance on the use of wood fibreboards in construction (continued)

Application Softboard Mediumboard Hardboard Medium Design consideration Application
density references
fibreboard
(MDF)
Roof sarking SB.H MBL.H HB.E - Impact resistance BS 5534-1
SB.E MBL.E HB.HLA1 - Humidity condition BS 8000-6
SB.HLS HB.HLA2 - Strength and stability
- Durability
Sheathing SB.HLS MBH.HLS1 HB.HLA2 - Strength and stability BS 5268-6
MBH.HLS2 - Impact
- Vapour permeability
- Dimensional movement
Staircases MDF - Loading requirement BS 585-2
MDF.H - Humidity condition
MDF.LA
MDF.HLS
Windowboards MDF.H - Strength and stability BS 1186-3
MDF.HLS - Humidity condition
a The adequate performance of a material designated for external applications may be dependent upon the use of an appropriate
exterior coating system. Manufacturer's recommendations should be followed.
b Wood fibreboards typically have a surface spread of flame rating of no greater than class 3 when tested to BS 476-7, although some
boards can be post-treated or are available from the manufacturer with either a class 1 rating to BS 476-7 or a class 0 rating in
compliance with the Building Regulations.

 BSI 1998 19
BS 7916:1998

Annex A (informative) Comparisons have been made between both properties

and also intended end uses. Since the system used to
Nearest fit comparison between British characterize board types is different between the
Standard board designations and BS and BS EN specifications, it should not be assumed
European Standard designations that the presence of a comparison for a particular
board type means that the boards have exactly the
Tables A.1, A.2, A.3, and A.4 below are intended for same specification values.
guidance only, in order to assist during the period of
transition from British Standard (BS) specifications to
European Standard (BS EN) specifications.
The tables ªindicate the nearest fitº comparison
between the grades given in BS 5669-2, -3, -4 and
BS 1142 to those given in BS EN 312-2, -3, -4, -5, -6
and -7, BS EN 300, BS EN 634-2 and BS EN 622-2, -3, -4
and -5.

Table A.1 Ð Particleboard

BS 5669-2 BS EN 312-2, -3, -4, -5, -6 and -7
Use description BS type BS EN type Use description
General purpose use (dry conditions) C1 P2 General purpose (dry conditions)
Boards for interior fitments (furniture) C1A P3 Boards for interior fitments (furniture)
Load bearing (dry conditions) C2 P4 Load bearing (dry conditions)
Moisture resistant (not load bearing) C3(M) Ð No equivalent grade (use P5)
Load bearing (moisture resistant) C4(M) P5 Load bearing (humid conditions)
No equivalent Ð P6 Heavy duty load bearing (dry conditions)
Heavy duty load bearing C5 P7 Heavy duty load bearing
(moisture resistant) (humid conditions)

Table A.2 Ð Oriented strand board

BS 5669-3 BS EN 300
Use description BS type BS EN type Use description
General purpose and boards for interior F1 OSB/1 General purpose and boards for interior
fitments including furniture fitments including furniture
(dry conditions)
General purpose (unconditioned) F1 OSB/2 Load bearing (dry conditions)
Load bearing (humid conditions) F2 OSB/3 Load bearing (humid conditions)
(conditioned)
No equivalent Ð OSB/4 Heavy duty load bearing
(humid conditions)

Table A.3 Ð Cement bonded particleboard

BS 5669-4 BS EN 634-2
Use description BS type BS EN type Use description
Internal use (dry conditions) T1 Ð No equivalent
Internal and external use T2 OPC bonded particleboard For use in dry, humid and
exterior conditions

20  BSI 1998
 BS 7916:1998

Table A.4 Ð Wood fibreboards

BS 1142 BS EN 622-2, -3, -4 and -5
Use description BS type BS EN type Use description
Hardboard
Standard hardboard (dry conditions) SHB/SHC HB General purpose (dry conditions)
No equivalent (nearest match) SHA/THN HB.H General purpose (humid conditions)
No equivalent (nearest match) THN HB.E General purpose (exterior conditions)
Standard hardboard (dry conditions) THN HB Load bearing (dry conditions)
Tempered hardboard (humid THN HB.HLA1 Load bearing (humid conditions)
conditions)
Tempered hardboard (humid THE HB.HLA2 Heavy duty load bearing (humid conditions)
conditions)
Low density mediumboard
Low density mediumboard (normal) LMN MBL General purpose (dry conditions)
Low density mediumboard (extra) LME MBL.H General purpose (humid conditions)
No equivalent Ð MBL.E General purpose (exterior conditions)
High density mediumboard
High density mediumboard (normal) HMN MBH General purpose (dry conditions)
High density mediumboard (extra) HME MBH.H General purpose (humid conditions)
No equivalent Ð MBH.E General purpose (exterior)
No equivalent (nearest match) HME MBH.LA1 Load bearing (dry conditions)
No equivalent (nearest match) Ð MBH.LA2 Heavy duty load bearing (dry conditions)
No equivalent (nearest match) HME MBH.HLS1 Load bearing (humid conditions)
No equivalent Ð MBH.HLS2 Heavy duty load bearing (humid conditions)
Softboard
Softboard (normal) SBN SB General purpose (dry conditions)
Softboard (impregnated) SBI SB.H General purpose (humid conditions)
No equivalent Ð SB.E General purpose (exterior conditions)
No equivalent Ð SB.LS Load bearing (dry conditions)
No equivalent (nearest match) SBS SB.HLS Load bearing (humid conditions)
(sarking and sheathing grade)
Medium density fibreboard
Medium density fibreboard MDF MDF General purpose (dry conditions)
Medium density fibreboard (moisture MDFMR MDF.H General purpose (humid conditions)
resistant) (option 1 only)
No equivalent Ð MDF.LA Load bearing (dry conditions)
No equivalent Ð MDF.HLS Load bearing (humid conditions)

 BSI 1998 21
BS 7916:1998

Annex B (informative) B.4 Procedure

Determination of punching shear
(concentrated load)
B.1 Principle
A load is applied to the surface of a rigidly supported
test specimen, via a punch (loading head) of specified
area, until the maximum applied load is obtained.
B.2 Apparatus
B.2.1 Punching shear test rig, as shown in Figure B.1.
The test rig should be capable of applying sufficient
load to cause the test specimen to fail and should be
fitted with appropriate circular punch sizes. It should
be capable of testing all the common thicknesses of
boards and of encompassing punch sizes of 25 mm
to 200 mm in diameter. It should have a steel
supporting plate and a clamping device. The steel
supporting plate shall have a thickness of Lmin/20,
where Lmin is the minimum side length of the test
specimen (see B.3), and a circular aperture at its
centre with a diameter, D, rounded to the
nearest 10 mm, of:
D = 6T + d + 25
where
T is the board thickness in millimetres;
d is the punch size in millimetres.
Mark the diagonals on one face of the test specimen.
Measure the thickness at a point on each
diagonal 25 mm from each corner, to the
nearest 0.1 mm, using a micrometer.
Calculate the test specimen thickness to the
nearest 0.1 mm from the mean of the four values.
Place the test specimen in the support fixture as
shown in Figure B.1. Rigidly clamp the test specimen
so that no uplift occurs at the board edges when
loaded.
Position the complete assembly in the testing machine
so that the centre of the punch is directly over the
intersection of the diagonal marks.
Apply a continuously increasing load to the test
specimen until the maximum applied load is attained.
The movement of the punching head shall be
controlled by a constant rate of loading such that the
maximum applied load is obtained after 300 s ± 120 s.
B.5 Results and analysis
The test results should be expressed to the
nearest 0.1 N.
The following should be obtained:
± the mean ultimate punching shear load W (in N);
± failure diameter and actual failure plane area.

The supporting frame should be rigid.

B.2.2 Adequate ancillary equipment to measure all
the necessary loads and deformations and to record
and store all the test data continuously during each
test. Where the accuracy of the equipment is specified,
the equipment should be periodically calibrated.
B.3 Test specimens
Test specimens should be square with a minimum side
length Lmin, in millimetres, of:
Lmin = D + 75
where

D is the diameter of the circular aperture of the

supporting plate in millimetres.

Test specimens should be conditioned to constant

mass at (20 ± 2) ÊC and (85 ± 5) % r.h. Constant mass is
considered to have been achieved when the results of
two successive weighing operations, carried out at an
interval of 24 h, do not differ by more than 0.1 % of the
mass of the test specimens.

22  BSI 1998
 BS 7916:1998

a) Test rig

b) Support plate
All dimensions are in millimetres

Figure B.1 Ð Layout of punching shear test rig

 BSI 1998 23
BS 7916:1998

Bibliography

Standards publications
BS 476-7:1997, Fire tests on building materials and structures Ð Method of test to determine the classification
of the surface spread of flame of products.
BS 585-2:1985, Wood stairs Ð Specification for performance requirements for domestic stairs constructed of
wood based materials.
BS 1142:1989, Specification for fibre building boards.
BS 1186-3:1990, Timber for and workmanship in joinery Ð Specification for wood trim and its fixing.
BS 4875-7:1985, Strength and stability of furniture Ð Methods for determination of strength of storage
furniture.
BS 4875-8:1985, Strength and stability of furniture Ð Methods for determination of stability of storage
furniture.
BS 4965:1991, Specification for decorative laminated plastics sheet veneered boards and panels.
BS 5250:1989, Code of practice for control of condensation in building.
BS 5268-2:1996, Structural use of timber Ð Code of practice for permissible stress design, materials and
workmanship.
BS 5268-6.1:1996, Structural use of timber Ð Code of practice for timber frame walls Ð Dwellings not
exceeding four storeys.
BS 5534-1:1997, Code of practice for slating and tiling Ð Design.
BS 5589:1989, Code of practice for preservation of timber.
BS 5669-1:1989, Particleboards Ð Methods of sampling, conditioning and test.
BS 6229:1982, Code of practice for flat roofs with continuously supported coverings.
BS 6399-1:1996, Loading for buildings Ð Code of practice for dead and imposed loads.
BS 8000-6:1990, Workmanship on building sites Ð Code of practice for slating and tiling of roofs and
claddings.
BS 8201:1987, Code of practice for flooring of timber, timber products and wood-based panel products.
BS 8204-1:1987, Screeds, bases and in situ floorings Ð Code of practice for concrete bases and screeds to receive
in situ flooring.
BS EN 204:1991, Classification of non-structural adhesives for joining wood and derived timber products.
BS EN 300:1997, Oriented strand boards (OSB) Ð Definitions, classifications and specifications.
BS EN 309:1992, Wood particleboard Ð Definition and classification.
BS EN 312-1:1997, Particleboards Ð Specifications Ð General requirements for all board types.
BS EN 312-2:1997, Particleboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for general purpose boards for use in dry
conditions.
BS EN 312-3:1997, Particleboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for boards for interior fitments (including
furniture) for use in dry conditions.
BS EN 312-4:1997, Particleboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for load-bearing boards for use in dry
conditions.
BS EN 312-5:1997, Particleboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for load-bearing boards for use in humid
conditions.
BS EN 312-6:1997, Particleboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for heavy duty load-bearing boards for use
in dry conditions.
BS EN 312-7:1997, Particleboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for heavy duty load-bearing boards for use
in humid conditions.
BS EN 316:1993, Wood fibreboards Ð Definitions, classification and symbols.
BS EN 320:1993, Fibreboards Ð Determination of resistance to axial withdrawal of screws.

24  BSI 1998
 BS 7916:1998

BS EN 335-1:1992, Hazard classes of wood and wood based products against biological attack Ð Classification
and hazard classes.
BS EN 335-3:1996, Hazard classes of wood and wood based products against biological attack Ð Application to
wood-based panels.
BS EN 622-1:1997, Fibreboards Ð Specifications Ð General requirements.
BS EN 622-2:1997, Fibreboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for hardboards.
BS EN 622-3:1997, Fibreboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for medium boards.
BS EN 622-4:1997, Fibreboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for softboards.
BS EN 622-5:1997, Fibreboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for dry process boards (MDF).
BS EN 633:1994, Cement-bonded particleboards Ð Definition and classification.
BS EN 634-1:1995, Cement-bonded particleboards Ð Specifications Ð General requirements.
BS EN 634-2:1997, Cement-bonded particleboards Ð Specifications Ð Requirements for OPC bonded
particleboards for use in dry, humid and exterior conditions.
BS EN 1128:1996, Cement-bonded particleboards Ð Determination of hard body impact resistance.
DD ENV 1995-1-1:1994, Eurocode 5 Ð Design of timber structures Ð General rules and rules for buildings.
prEN 12369, Wood-based panels Ð Characteristic values for established products.
prEN 1195, Timber structures Ð The testing of structural floor decking.
prEN 12869-2, Wood based panels Ð Structural floor decking on joists Ð Part 2 Ð Performance requirements.
ISO 3340, Fibre building boards Ð Determination of sand content.

Other documents
[1] The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 1994, published by The Stationery
Office, London.
[2] Platform floors: technical guidance. PSA MOB 01-707, published by the Property Services Agency, 198111).
[3] Specification for road and bridge works, published by the Department of the Environment12).

11) Obtainable from Schall Property Services (Publications group), 3rd floor, The Lansdowne Building, Lansdowne Road, Croydon, Surrey
CRO 2BX.
12) Obtainable from The Stationery Office, 49 High Holborn, London WC1V 6HB.
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