AbstractSamples of current Australian production of unplasticized polyvinyl chloride pipe and fitting materials have been examined in relation to combustion characteristics. Small scale laboratory assessment of piloted radiant ignition flame propagation and smoke generation have been investigated. Where necessary, improvements to methods of test or analysis of data have been developed and factors that influence results have been investigated. Piloted radiant ignititon and smoke production under flaming conditions are shfown to be the important combustion characteristics of UPVC materials for improvement.