Three regulatory frameworks
Fire protection is governed by different regulations depending on the use of the establishment. It is essential to apply the correct one:
| Scope | Regulation | What it regulates |
|---|---|---|
| Buildings (non-industrial use) | CTE DB-SI | Design: compartmentation, evacuation, fire resistance |
| Industrial establishments | RSCIEI | Requirements according to risk and warehouse configuration |
| Fire protection equipment and installations | RIPCI | Installation and maintenance of the systems |
Buildings: CTE DB-SI
In buildings of non-industrial use (commercial, hospitality, offices, public assembly…), the design of fire safety is governed by the Basic Document SI of the Technical Building Code (CTE). It defines compartmentation, the evacuation routes and paths, the fire resistance of the structure and the protection installations required.
Industry: RSCIEI
Warehouses, workshops and industrial establishments are governed by the Regulation on Fire Safety in Industrial Establishments (RSCIEI). Its application is based on two classifications:
1. Configuration of the establishment
- Type A: partially occupies a building shared with other establishments.
- Type B: fully occupies a building attached to others.
- Type C: fully occupies a detached building (separated from others).
- Types D and E: the activity takes place in an open space, fully or partially covered (they constitute a fire area); they differ by the degree of cover and occupation.
2. Intrinsic risk level
It is assessed by calculating the weighted and corrected fire load density of each sector or area. That calculation yields a low, medium or high level (in turn subdivided into eight grades, from 1 to 8), which determines the protection measures required (compartmentation, fire stability, installations, etc.).
Does your warehouse need a fire protection project?
The configuration and the intrinsic risk level of your establishment determine the mandatory measures. We assess your case and tell you the requirements that the RSCIEI demands for your activity.
Fire protection installations: RIPCI
Protection equipment (automatic detection, fire hydrants, extinguishers, sprinklers, emergency lighting, signage) is installed and maintained in accordance with the Regulation on Fire Protection Installations (RIPCI), which sets the requirements for the products, their commissioning and their periodic maintenance.
What do we do?
Frequently asked questions
Which fire regulations apply to my premises?
In buildings of non-industrial use, the CTE DB-SI applies. In industrial establishments (warehouses, workshops), the RSCIEI applies. Protection equipment is governed by the RIPCI.
What is the intrinsic risk level of an industrial establishment?
It is a classification (low, medium or high, subdivided into eight grades) calculated from the weighted and corrected fire load density, and it determines the protection measures required.