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ECE REGULATION NO. 118-02
We answer your main questions regarding the new regulation for fire protection.
What is the difference between the old and the new norm?
In the fire test according to the old ECE regulation No. 118-01 fabrics were tested horizontally only. According to the new ECE regulation No. 118-02, fabrics are tested vertically as well. Additionally, a draining test (testing the melting behaviour) is conducted. On the whole, these measures insure a more realistic fire test which enhances the security of passengers in the event of fire.
When will the new ECE regulation No. 118-02 come into effect?
This new regulation has already come into effect on 26 July 2012. However, its effects will only be in force from 25 July 2017 when a new type of bus will be brought onto the market.
Is the new ECE regulation No. 118-02 valid for all types of busses?
Yes, for all busses with at least 8 seats, not counting the driver’s seat, and with a weight superior to 5 tons, regardless of the drive type (diesel, gas, electrical).
In which countries is the new norm valid?
Within the whole European Union.
Are fabrics produced according to the new ECE regulation No. 118-02 more expensive than those produced according to the old ECE regulation No. 118-01?
Yes, these fabrics will be a little bit more expensive, because an augmentation of fire protection goes hand in hand with an augmented use of flame-retardant chemicals. Sometimes it has even become necessary to adapt the construction of individual items. Both factors lead to an increase in costs.
Does the visual appearance of a fabric change when it is produced according to the new ECE regulation No. 118-02?
In general, there is no change to the visual appearance.
Do the haptics of a fabric change when it is produced according to the new ECE regulation No. 118-02?
Yes, there are haptic changes, because the layer of the flame-retardant coating is heightened. However, this mainly relates to the underside of the fabric, whereas the front side of a velour almost doesn’t change. Therefore, you will not notice any significate changes in the fabrics.
I have several busses with a date of approval from 2016. Do I need to change anything because of the new ECE regulation No. 118-02? If yes, when do I need to change what?
No, you don’t need to change anything. In existing vehicles, no change of seat trim material is necessary. But starting from 26 July 2020 you may only use fabrics produced according to the new ECE regulation No. 118-02 when you replace existing fabrics.
I want to buy a new bus. What do I need to bear in mind?
When you want to purchase a new bus, the essential question is whether on the part of the bus producer it is considered a new bus type or not. Here also, there is a difference between existing vehicles (bus models which have been registered by the bus producer until 25 July 2017) and new types of vehicles (bus models which have been registered since 26 July 2017). The new bus types have to comply completely with the new ECE regulation No. 118-02.
Do all fabrics of the new Schoepf collection comply with the new ECE regulation No. 118-02?
Yes, all fabrics of the new Schoepf collection comply with the new ECE regulation No. 118-02.
Will the fabrics produced according to the new norm have a new item number?
Yes, instead of starting with digit 1 or 2 - as previously - the fabrics of our new bus collection will start with digit 3 or 4.
Can I order the fabrics of the new Schoepf collection according to the old ECE regulation No. 118-01?
Yes. The only important thing is to choose the correct item number. If you are in doubt, please approach your dedicated sales contact. We will be glad to help you!
