The evolution of fire prevention in Belgium
Belgium’s recent history has been marked by tragic fires that underscore the need for strict fire prevention regulations. In response to these disasters, a law was established in 1979 to regulate fire and explosion prevention and the mandatory civil liability insurance under such circumstances. This law led to the Royal Decree of July 7, 1994, which defines the basic standards for fire prevention. These standards set the minimum conditions that building design, construction, and outfitting must meet to ensure safety.
Understanding the law of July 30, 1979, and its role in fire prevention
In response to these tragedies, the law of July 30, 1979, was drafted. This law has two main objectives: fire and explosion prevention, and the mandatory civil liability insurance under such circumstances.
What is fire resistance and how is it measured?
Fire resistance refers to a building element’s ability to maintain its function for a certain period when exposed to fire, including stability, flame containment, and thermal insulation. This resistance is tested in laboratories, where one side of the structure is exposed to increasing temperatures according to a standard temperature curve. The resistance class is expressed in minutes, indicating the duration of the fire test.
Transition to the European EI1 standard
In recent years, there has been a shift toward adopting a European standard. This standard requires that doors, door assemblies, and metal fire-resistant frames comply with the EI1 requirement of the European norm. This has implications for building permits: applications submitted after July 1, 2022, must meet the EI1 standard, while applications submitted before this date can still use RF frames.
What is the difference between EI1 and EI2?
Let’s clarify the definitions:
- E (Integrity): The degree to which a construction element (such as a door, wall, or window) can prevent the passage of flames and hot gases.
- I (Insulation): The extent to which the element prevents heat transfer. This is subdivided into EI1 and EI2:
- EI1: Stricter requirement for temperature rise, measured at specific points, with limited allowable increase.
- EI2: Slightly less strict, with temperature rise measured over a larger area.
EI1 30 means 30 minutes of fire resistance.
EI1 60 means 60 minutes of fire resistance.
EI2 is less strict than EI1 because temperature requirements are less stringent. In Belgium, the stricter EI1 standard is applied.
This can affect the price of the door leaf since it generally needs to be 50 to 60mm thick. At Symons, we do not differentiate between RF or EI1 frames for our metal door frames.
When are EI1 fire doors required?
EI1 frames may be required depending on regulations, building type, function, and specific fire safety and compartmentalization needs. It’s essential to consult relevant local and national building codes and fire safety standards to determine if EI1 frames are necessary for a given project. In Belgium and the EU, these requirements are usually detailed in fire safety standards applicable to specific buildings or projects. Architects, often in consultation with fire safety experts, determine where and if EI1 frames should be installed.
Symons’ role in the transition to the EI1 standard
Symons, a supplier of metal doors and door frames, plays an active role in this transition. We offer a transitional period in which it remains possible to work with our trusted metal fire-resistant frames. Thanks to our highest EI1 classification, Symons’ fire-resistant metal door frames are particularly suited for spaces where fire safety is crucial, such as in healthcare, schools, airports, public buildings, and more.
EI1: where Symons stands today
Conclusion: the importance of EI1 Benor/ATG certification
In recent years, we have been very active in developing or optimizing our metal frames to meet the EI1 classification.
Testing and certification of our metal frames is an ongoing process. In collaboration with renowned door manufacturers, we continuously develop and expand our product range. The major advantage of this is that you have the freedom to choose which door manufacturer to work with.
These certifications are proof of our commitment to the highest standards of fire safety.
Today, we already offer EI1 solutions for many applications.
Does your project require El1 fire doors with particular requirements?
Let us know through the form below. Thanks to our extensive customization options, we can often provide a tailored solution.
