Fire resistance of fire-rated compartments: Performance depends not only on EI60 panels, but above all on the load-bearing structure and the documentation accompanying the product.*
Table of Contents
Fire Resistance of Fire-Rated Rooms: What to Really Consider
The question is very practical: How can the fire resistance of a prefabricated fire-rated compartment constructed with EI60 panels be certified if the load-bearing structure is made of galvanized sheet metal?
In these cases, the key point is to distinguish between load-bearing elements and infill/cladding. The required fire resistance rating (specified as UNI EN 12845 = R60) must be achieved in a manner consistent with the actual characteristics of the room, especially where the structural integrity of the entire structure is at stake.
The critical point: the load-bearing structure made of galvanized sheet metal
With regard to the load-bearing structure described, it is clearly stated that it is impossible to meet the required fire resistance standard.
This means that, even if the panels are rated EI60, the overall performance of the room cannot be automatically “transferred” to the load-bearing structure. If the element that supports and stabilizes the room is not suitable, the required performance cannot be achieved, regardless of the panels’ performance level.
Why a certification that “attests” may not be reliable
If the load-bearing structure is not suitable for achieving the required performance (R60), then “any certification attesting to this is unreliable.”
This is not merely a formal issue: a statement or document must be consistent with the actual object it describes. If the required performance is specified for a space where the load-bearing structure cannot reach it, this creates a mismatch between the requirement and the actual construction, with operational and liability implications.
EI60 Panels: What You Really Need (and What You Don’t)
With regard to the panels, it is specified that, since they are not part of the load-bearing structure, they are required to undergo “only” a fire reaction test with a rating of at least A2s1d0 – UNI 11292 5.1.
Therefore, in the context described, the focus on the panels must be interpreted correctly: they are not “replacing” the load-bearing performance of the structure. They are an element that must meet a different requirement (reaction to fire) than that required for the load-bearing capacity and stability of the structure as a whole.
Design and Construction: Why UNI EN 1090 (CE and DOP) Matters
In addition to performance considerations, there are supply chain and compliance issues: the design and construction of the structure must be carried out by a company certified by a third-party body to manufacture in accordance with UNI EN 1090.
Otherwise, it is stated that:
- It will not be possible to affix the CE mark;
- it will be impossible to produce the relevant PDO;
- Without CE and DOP certification, “the structure cannot be brought to the construction site.”
This step directly links the technical aspect (structural suitability) to the documentation and authorization aspects (market release and acceptance on the construction site).
Entry to the Construction Site: What Happens If You Don’t Have a CE or DOP
The text is clear: CE and DOP are requirements without which the structure cannot be brought to the construction site. This is not a bureaucratic detail, but an operational obstacle.
Consequently, if such a facility were to be built anyway:
- marketed, and
- accepted at the construction site,
This would lead to a risky situation in which it is no longer merely a “technical decision,” but rather one involving potential violations with significant consequences for the various parties involved.
Penalties: Decree-Law 106/2017 and Liability Throughout the Supply Chain
In the case described, reference is made to the penalties provided for in Decree-Law 106/2017, concerning national alignment with the Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 (construction products).
Specifically, it is noted that Decree-Law 106/2017 (Articles 19, 20, and 21) introduces a system of penalties for violations resulting from the improper use of the CE mark. The penalties apply to:
- manufacturers,
- installers,
- construction managers,
- project managers,
- testers,
- certifying officers,
- designers.
It should also be noted that these administrative and criminal penalties are more severe if the construction products are used for structural or fire protection purposes.
Quick Checklist: How to Properly Interpret a Client’s Request
When you are asked to “report” the service, the logical verification (even before the documentary verification) can follow these steps:
- The requirement is for the room to have a fire resistance rating (referred to as R60).
- Is the load-bearing structure capable of achieving this performance?
- Do the (non-load-bearing) panels meet at least A2s1d0 – UNI 11292 5.1?
- Is the structure manufactured by a certified company (third-party organization) in accordance with UNI EN 1090?
- Are the CE mark and PDO certification required for access to the construction site?
- If something is missing, who assumes the risk of sale/acceptance?
Conclusion
A prefabricated fire compartment cannot be considered compliant with the required performance simply because it has EI60 panels: if the load-bearing structure made of galvanized sheet metal is not suitable, the fire resistance of the fire compartments cannot be reliably certified. At the same time, the absence of production and documentation requirements (UNI EN 1090, CE, DOP) creates immediate issues for the construction site and may result in potential penalties.
