Best Fire Safe Cable Clips for 18th Edition Compliance: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics
Electrical safety isn't just about preventing shocks; it's about what happens during a fire. One of the most critical updates in recent years (the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations) involves preventing 'premature collapse'. Put simply, plastic cable clips melt in a fire, causing cables to drop and potentially entangle firefighters entering the building. It's a serious hazard that has cost lives.
To comply with BS 7671, we now use metal fire-safe clips that can withstand temperatures exceeding 900°C. This ensures cables stay fixed to the wall or ceiling long enough for safe evacuation. Whether you're a landlord bringing an HMO up to code or a homeowner securing new wiring, these clips are non-negotiable.
In this review, I've selected three metal cable clips available in 2025 that I use on my jobs. I'll cover a budget-friendly staple, a high-quality option designed to prevent cable damage, and a problem-solving clip ideal for specific fire alarm cabling.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Fire Resistance 930°C+"
"The clip will hold the cable indefinitely during a blaze."
The clip will survive, but the substrate might not. In Leeds' Victorian terraces, fixing into crumbling lath and plaster isn't enough; you must fix into solid brick or joists for the clip to actually do its job.
The Spec: "Compliance with BS 7671"
"Using this clip automatically makes your installation compliant."
The clip is only part of the equation. You also need correct spacing (usually every 300mm horizontally and 400mm vertically) and proper metal fixings, not plastic rawl plugs which will melt.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Clip 4 Fire 2.5mm Metal Fire Resistant Steel Cable Clip Compliance to 18th Edition Pack of 50
Olympic Fixings
This is your bread-and-butter compliance clip. It's a simple, folded metal design that does exactly what it says on the tin: secures 2.5mm twin and earth cable and resists fire. It's cost-effective for larger rewires where you're using hundreds of clips.
The Good
- Excellent value at roughly 14p per clip
- Fully fully compliant with BS 5839 and 18th Edition standards
- High impact strength thanks to manganese steel core
The Bad
- Industrial aesthetic – not the prettiest for surface mounting
- Requires care when hammering to avoid crushing the cable insulation
Installer Tip:
When using these on the hard red brick common in Leeds, pre-drill a small pilot hole if the masonry nails struggle to penetrate. Also, don't hammer them completely flat; leave a paper-thin gap to protect the cable sheath.
Priced at £6.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonViperClip Fire Cable Clip for flat Twin and Earth Cables (200, 2.5)
ViperClip
ViperClip has solved the biggest headache of metal clips: accidental cable damage. These clips feature a clever design that centres the nail and provides a 'hard stop', ensuring you cannot crush the cable even if you get heavy-handed with the hammer.
The Good
- Nails go either side of the cable, virtually eliminating risk of piercing live wires
- Hard stop point prevents crushing the insulation (a common fault)
- Grips securely without damage
The Bad
- More expensive upfront cost
- Size specific – you need the exact clip for the cable size
Installer Tip:
These are brilliant for exposed runs in garages or lofts where the work is visible. The neatness is superior to standard metal clips, and the peace of mind regarding cable integrity is worth the extra few quid.
Priced at £20.40 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonD-Line Safe-D Twin Stag Clips, Holds 2X 8-10mm Diameter Cables, Fire Rated, Comply with 18th Edition Wiring Regulations - Red
D-Line
This is a specialist clip ideal for commercial or HMO fire alarm systems. The 'Stag' design holds two cables simultaneously without needing screws—the barbs grip directly into a pilot hole. The red colour creates immediate identification for fire alarm circuits.
The Good
- Incredibly fast installation – drill hole, push clip in
- Holds two cables at once, perfect for feed-in/feed-out loops
- Red colour clearly denotes fire alarm cabling
The Bad
- Requires precise pilot hole sizing for the barbs to grip effectively
- Difficult to remove once inserted
Installer Tip:
These are a lifesaver when working on concrete ceilings in purpose-built flats or modern HMOs. Just ensure your drill bit is fresh and the correct diameter; if the hole is too wide, the grip fails. If it's too tight, you'll struggle to push it home.
Priced at £19.89 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Why can't I use plastic cable clips anymore?
Do I need to replace all clips in my house?
Can I use plastic wall plugs with these metal clips?
How do I choose between the sizes?
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