M1 and M2 Standards for Curtains in Public Buildings: A Guide to Obligations.
En ERP, les rideaux doivent respecter le classement M1 dans les escaliers encloisonnés et sur les scènes, M2 minimum dans les dégagements et locaux de plus de 50 m², selon l'arrêté du 25 juin 1980 (articles AM 11 à AM 14, norme NF P 92-507). Les chambres de moins de 50 m² n'ont aucune obligation légale, mais assureurs et chaînes hôtelières imposent souvent M2 ou M1.
Kurtens fabrique des rideaux M1 sur mesure pour les professionnels : certification M1 sur demande avec procès-verbal fourni, performances techniques à la carte (atténuation acoustique jusqu'à 22 dB*, isolation thermique jusqu'à 7 °C*, occultation jusqu'à 100%*). Devis sous 24h.
In France, the fire rating of building materials is based on standard NF P 92-507, which was made mandatory by the decree of June 25, 1980. This standard defines five levels of fire reaction, from M0 (non-combustible) to M4 (highly flammable).
- Audit of your spaces: identify areas subject to M1 or M2 requirements using the table above
- Statement of need: contact Kurtens with the number of windows, dimensions, and desired performance (acoustic, thermal, blackout)
- Detailed quote within 24 hours: complete costing with M1 certification, colors, and finishes
- Samples on request: material and color validation before ordering
- Custom manufacturing: production according to your specifications
- Delivery and documentation: curtains delivered with M1 fire rating certificates for your safety register. Kurtens can recommend partner installers if needed
| Classe | Désignation | Signification | Application rideaux |
|---|---|---|---|
| M0 | Incombustible | Ne brûle pas, ne contribue pas au feu | Non applicable aux textiles |
| M1 | Non inflammable | Ne s'enflamme pas au contact d'une flamme | Escaliers, scènes, espaces à risque |
| M2 | Difficilement inflammable | S'enflamme difficilement, propagation très limitée | Dégagements, locaux > 50 m² |
| M3 | Moyennement inflammable | Propagation modérée | Non conforme en ERP |
| M4 | Facilement inflammable | Propagation rapide | Interdit en ERP |
L'arrêté du 21 novembre 2002 a introduit le système européen des Euroclasses (A1 à F), qui coexiste avec le classement M français. Pour les rideaux en ERP, le classement M reste la référence dans la pratique, les commissions de sécurité et les assureurs l'utilisant systématiquement.
Quels rideaux M1 ou M2 dans chaque espace de votre ERP ?
L'obligation réglementaire dépend de l'espace, pas du type d'établissement. Les articles AM 11, AM 12 et AM 13 de l'arrêté du 25 juin 1980 s'appliquent à tous les ERP : hôtels, restaurants, EHPAD, bureaux, écoles, salles de spectacle.
| Espace | Obligation légale | Référence | Recommandation pratique |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escaliers encloisonnés | M1 obligatoire | AM 12 a) | Exigence stricte, pas de dérogation |
| Dégagements (couloirs, halls, circulations) | M2 minimum | AM 12 b) | Privilégier M1 pour sécurisation maximale |
| Locaux et salles > 50 m² | M2 minimum | AM 12 b) | Privilégier M1 (fréquentation importante) |
| Scènes et estrades | M1 obligatoire | AM 13 | Exigence stricte |
| Garnitures textiles sur portes coupe-feu | M2 minimum | AM 11 §2 | Privilégier M1 |
| Chambres < 50 m² | Aucune obligation légale | Non visé par AM 11-12 | M2 recommandé (exigence assureurs fréquente) |
| Suites et chambres ≥ 50 m² | M2 minimum | AM 12 b) | Privilégier M1 (surface à risque) |
| Petits salons < 50 m² (hors dégagement) | Aucune obligation légale | Non visé par AM 12 | M2 recommandé (anticiper contrôles) |
The legal obligation is a minimum. Three actors frequently impose stricter requirements than the regulations.
Insurers: professional multi-risk policies often require M1 or M2 curtains, including in areas not covered by law (hotel rooms, offices). Non-compliance can lead to forfeiture of coverage in the event of a claim.
Chains and groups: the internal standards of hotel groups (Accor, Marriott, Hilton) and healthcare networks are often more demanding than the regulations. A group nursing home will typically require M1 everywhere, even in rooms.
Control offices: Bureau Veritas, Apave, Socotec strongly recommend M1 or M2 in all areas, even those not subject to legal obligation. Their reports are consulted by the safety committee during periodic visits.
Custom M1 Kurtens Curtains: Compliance Plus Performance
Most suppliers of flame-retardant curtains for public spaces only offer M1 certification. As a manufacturer of custom flame-retardant curtains, Kurtens combines regulatory compliance with technical performance according to your specifications.
| Criterion | Fournisseur M1 standard | Kurtens |
|---|---|---|
| M1 Certification | Yes | Yes, upon request |
| Atténuation acoustique | Not proposed | Up to 22 dB* |
| Isolation thermique | Not proposed | Jusqu'à 7 °C de gain* |
| Concealment | Variable | Up to 100%* |
| Dimensions | Tailles standard ou semi-standard | Exactly custom-made to specifications |
| Colors | Fixed catalog | Personnalisable selon projet |
| Minutes M1 | Pas toujours fourni | Fourni systématiquement |
| Samples | Rarely | Disponibles sur demande |
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Frequently asked questions about M1 curtains.
What's the difference between M1 and M2 for curtains?
An M1 curtain is non-flammable: it does not ignite when exposed to a flame. An M2 curtain is flame-retardant: it may ignite, but the spread of the flame is very limited. In public access buildings (ERP), enclosed staircases and stages require M1. Passageways and rooms larger than 50 m² require at least M2.
Should hotel room curtains be M1 rated?
Rooms under 50 sq. ft. have no legal obligation regarding the fire rating of curtains. However, insurers and hotel chains frequently require M2 or M1 classification, even in guest rooms. Check the terms of your insurance policy and your group's standards.
How do you check that a curtain is actually M1 rated?
Request the M1 classification report (fire report) issued by the manufacturer or an approved laboratory. This document must be less than 5 years old. A reputable supplier will always provide it. Kurtens delivers the M1 report with every order of certified curtains.
Should you flame-retard a fabric or buy an intrinsically M1 fabric?
Both approaches exist. Flame retardation through chemical treatment is less durable: it can deteriorate with washing. A fabric with an intrinsically M1 fiber retains its classification over time. For a public access building subject to periodic checks, an intrinsically M1 fabric offers more reliable long-term compliance.
