Fire Resistance Inspection

According to EN 13501-2, structural elements must achieve the required fire resistance classification (R for load-bearing capacity, E for integrity, I for insulation). Common requirements: R60, R90, R120 depending on building use and height. The SCIE regulation (Portaria 1532/2008) defines the requirements for each use-type. Concrete cover for fire resistance according to NP EN 1992-1-2 Table 5.8. Steel protection according to NP EN 1993-1-2.

1. Check the fire resistance requirement for each structural element from the fire safety strategy and SCIE

2. For concrete: confirm that cover dimensions meet NP EN 1992-1-2 requirements (often greater than durability cover)

3. For steel: verify the type and thickness of fire protection (intumescent paint, boards or spray)

4. Measure the dry film thickness (DFT) of intumescent paint — must meet the manufacturer's table

5. Check the thickness and continuity of fire protection boards or spray

- Concrete cover insufficient for fire classification (meets durability but not fire requirement)

- Intumescent paint with insufficient thickness — DFT below specification

- Fire protection missing at connections, beam-column junctions

- Fire protection damaged by subsequent works and not repaired

According to the SCIE regulation (Portaria 1532/2008) and EN standards, fire compartment walls and floors must maintain the required integrity classification (EI 60, EI 90, EI 120). All penetrations (services, pipes, cables, ducts) through fire-rated elements must be sealed with firestopping systems tested according to EN 1366 (series). Fire dampers in ducts according to EN 15650.

1. Check that compartment walls extend full height to the underside of the slab

2. Confirm that all service penetrations through fire-rated walls/floors are sealed

3. Verify that firestopping products are tested and certified for the specific application

4. Inspect fire dampers in ducts at compartment boundaries

5. Confirm that fire doors have the correct classification, are self-closing and properly sealed

- Compartment walls stopping at the suspended ceiling instead of the slab

- Service penetrations unsealed or sealed with incorrect products

- Firestopping installed but not matching the tested configuration

- Fire dampers missing, jammed or without access for maintenance

The design of means of escape in Portugal is regulated by the SCIE (Portaria 1532/2008), which defines maximum travel distances, minimum exit widths and the number of exits based on the use-type and occupancy. Emergency lighting must comply with EN 1838 and exit signage with EN ISO 7010.

1. Check that travel distances from any point to the nearest exit do not exceed the regulatory maximum (SCIE)

2. Confirm that exit widths are adequate for the occupancy capacity (typically >= 850 mm per leaf)

3. Verify that emergency exit doors open in the direction of escape

4. Confirm that emergency lighting is installed and functional according to EN 1838

5. Check that exit signage is illuminated and visible from the escape routes

- Travel distances exceeding the maximum due to interior layout changes

- Emergency exits blocked or locked during occupancy hours

- Insufficient emergency lighting along all escape routes

- Exit signage missing or not illuminated