Fire-resistant safe

Fires occur regularly in Belgium and represent a real risk for homes, offices and businesses. Each year, fire services respond to thousands of incidents — documents, data media and valuables can be permanently damaged within minutes, at temperatures exceeding 800 °C.

More information: anpi.be — pompier.be

To effectively protect these assets against fire, a fire-resistant safe is the right solution.

A fire-resistant safe is designed to keep the internal temperature below a critical threshold during a fire. For paper, this limit is around 170 to 180 °C, while digital media such as hard drives, tapes and USB devices can be damaged from approximately 55 °C. A clear distinction is therefore made between protection for paper and protection for data media.

Fire-resistant safes are tested according to standardised fire tests simulating a real fire using a predefined temperature curve. After these tests, they are certified by independent bodies such as ECB-S. Fire resistance is expressed as a time rating: 30, 60 or 120 minutes.

More information on standards and certifications: fire resistance classes and test methods.

The choice of a fire-resistant safe depends not only on the contents to be protected, but also on the environment in which it is installed. An attic with a timber roof structure, a fuel storage area or an underground car park requires a higher fire resistance class than a standard office — a fire develops more rapidly and lasts longer in such environments. A safe placed in a well-compartmentalised room, equipped with fire-resistant walls and doors, is better protected than one situated in an environment containing large amounts of combustible material or placed on a wooden floor structure.

Secondary risks should also be taken into account. During firefighting operations, large quantities of water may be discharged. Fire-resistant safes generally offer protection against water splashes, but are not designed for full submersion. If the room floods, the contents may still be damaged.

More information on fire resistance classes and standards: fire resistance classes and test methods. 

At Atelier Boonen, a fire-resistant safe is not considered a standard product, but a solution that must be adapted to the application and its environment. The selection depends not only on the required fire resistance, but also on the type of contents to be protected (paper or digital media), the installation location and the possible need for burglary protection.

As a Belgian family business, Atelier Boonen supports both private and professional clients in selecting fire-resistant safes in Belgium, based on a concrete assessment of risks and requirements. The advice is independent and not limited to a single brand or product range.

Atelier Boonen also provides the delivery, installation and anchoring of fire-resistant safes, carried out by its own team. This ensures correct installation and consistent follow-up.

By operating exclusively in Belgium, Atelier Boonen guarantees a reliable and structured service, from initial advice to installation and aftercare.