Fire-resistance classification of construction products and elements

In forceSicurezza in caso d'incendioLegge/DecretoCogente● In review

Summary

TAV. 00

Sets the fire-resistance classification criteria - load-bearing capacity (R), integrity (E), insulation (I) and combinations RE, REI, REI-M - for construction products and elements, and the three permitted methods to determine it: testing, tabular and analytical.

Scope of application

TAV. 01

Applies to products and construction elements for which a fire-resistance requirement is prescribed for safety in case of fire. It transposes the European classification (EN 13501-2) and works together with the Fire Prevention Code (D.M. 03/08/2015), which sets when and which class is required.

In depth

TAV. A

While reaction to fire describes how much a material feeds a fire, fire resistance describes something different: how long a construction element keeps doing its job while the fire is burning. This decree provides the Italian framework for classifying it, in line with the European standard EN 13501-2.

Key points

TAV. K

Classes R / RE / REI / REI-M with time in minutes (e.g. REI 120)
Three permitted methods: testing, tabular, analytical (fire parts of the Eurocodes)
Coordinated with the test methods of UNI EN 13501-2

Materials concerned

TAV. M

MAT.05/28R

Structural conglomerate

Linear element (beams)

Glued Laminated Timber (GLT)

Processes involved

TAV. P

PRC.03CLT (X-LAM) Timber Structure

Frequently asked questions

TAV. Q

What does REI 90 mean?

An element that guarantees, for 90 minutes of fire, load-bearing capacity (R), integrity against flames and hot gases (E) and thermal insulation (I) at the same time.

What is the difference between R, RE and REI?

They are increasing combinations of criteria: R is load-bearing only (e.g. a column); RE adds integrity; REI adds thermal insulation too (typical of a compartmenting wall). The required combination depends on the element's role.

Which method should I use to determine the class?

One of three: experimental (lab test), tabular (tables annexed to the decree) or analytical (engineering calculation per the fire parts of the Eurocodes). The choice depends on the element and on available data.

Glossary

TAV. G

R — Resistenza: Load-bearing capacity: the element keeps carrying its load during the fire.
E — Ermeticità: Integrity: the element prevents the passage of flames and hot gases.
I — Isolamento: Insulation: the element limits the temperature rise on the unexposed side.
Compartimentazione: Dividing a building into volumes that confine fire and smoke for a set time.