What do E and I mean?
"E" stands for Etanchéité — integrity against flames and hot gases. "I" stands for Isolation — thermal insulation, ensuring the back of the door doesn't reach unacceptably high temperatures. EI means both functions are combined. An "S" is sometimes added to indicate smoke tightness.
EI30 — escape routes and apartments
EI30 doors compartmentalise fire zones of up to 2,500 m². In Belgian apartment buildings, they're mandatory between every residential unit and the shared corridor. They give occupants 30 minutes to evacuate safely.
EI60 — taller buildings and care facilities
Buildings taller than 10 metres (classified as "high-rise" under ARAB regulations) require EI60 for most access points. Care facilities and nursing homes require specific EI60 + S classes due to residents' limited evacuation capacity.
EI120 — industrial and technical spaces
EI120 is required for doors leading to boiler rooms, main electrical distribution cabinets and certain archive rooms. In industrial buildings, insurers often also determine the required class.
Who determines which class is required?
The fire prevention officer from the local fire department and/or the architect set the required class based on the Royal Decree on Basic Fire Prevention Standards and the building permit. We provide the technical data sheets and CE documentation needed for the permit application.