Fireproofing Paint for Steel Structures: Understanding Ratings and Protection Levels

By DTC – Industrial & General Contracting Specialists

Fire protection is a critical requirement for steel structures in Saudi Arabia. Steel, while strong, loses its structural integrity at high temperatures, making fireproofing essential for industrial, commercial, and warehouse projects. Fireproofing paint, including intumescent and cementitious coatings, provides an effective, reliable solution to enhance safety, comply with regulations, and protect investment.

DTC delivers certified fireproofing solutions for steel structures across Saudi Arabia, with a strong presence in Dammam, Al Khobar, and the Eastern Region. Our services ensure compliance with the Saudi Building Code and Civil Defense fire safety requirements while maintaining industrial operational efficiency.

Understanding Fireproofing Paint for Steel

Fireproofing paint is a specially formulated coating applied to steel surfaces to slow the rise in temperature during a fire. By delaying structural steel failure, these coatings allow additional time for evacuation, firefighting, and emergency response.

Key Types of Fireproofing Paint

1. Intumescent Paints

   • Expand under heat to form an insulating char

   • Provide aesthetic finish suitable for exposed steel

   • Typically used for structural beams, columns, and visible steel elements

2. Cementitious Coatings

   • Applied in thicker layers

   • Often used for industrial facilities, high-risk zones, or concealed steel

   • High durability in harsh environments

3. Hybrid Systems

   • Combination of intumescent and cementitious layers

   • Customized for specific fire resistance ratings

Fireproofing Ratings and Protection Levels

Fireproofing paints are rated according to duration of protection in case of fire, typically measured in hours. Common ratings include:

• 1-hour rating – Suitable for light commercial and low-risk areas

• 2-hour rating – Standard for most industrial applications

• 3-hour rating and above – High-risk or critical infrastructure

The selection of rating depends on:

• Building type and occupancy

• Structural steel size and thickness

• Fire load and potential hazards

• Saudi Building Code requirements

Importance of Fireproofing for Steel Structures in Saudi Arabia

Steel’s strength dramatically decreases when exposed to high temperatures. Without fireproofing:

• Steel may lose 50% of its strength at 550°C

• Complete structural collapse can occur in under an hour

• Industrial operations and human safety are severely at risk

Fireproofing paint provides:

• Time for evacuation and emergency intervention

• Compliance with civil defense and municipal fire safety standards

• Protection of equipment, inventory, and infrastructure

Industrial Applications of Fireproofing Paint

Factories and Manufacturing Facilities

Steel structures in factories benefit from fireproofing through:

• Protection of load-bearing columns and beams

• Safety for heavy machinery areas

• Integration with sprinkler and fire detection systems

Warehouses and Logistics Hubs

Fireproofing ensures:

• Structural safety during fire in high-rack storage

• Compatibility with fire suppression systems

• Extended operational continuity during emergencies

Oil, Gas, and Energy Facilities

Industrial steel fireproofing is critical for:

• Equipment platforms and pipe racks

• Hazardous zones with combustible materials

• Compliance with industry-specific safety regulations

Fireproofing Application Process

DTC follows a systematic approach to fireproofing steel structures:

1. Surface Preparation

   • Cleaning, degreasing, and removing rust or scale

   • Ensures adhesion and long-term performance

2. Primer Application

   • Optional primer to enhance coating adhesion

   • Especially critical for high-moisture industrial environments

3. Fireproof Coating Application

   • Intumescent or cementitious coating applied by spray or brush

   • Thickness verified according to design rating

4. Curing and Quality Checks

   • Proper curing to achieve full fire resistance

   • Inspection and testing to confirm rating compliance

Safety and Compliance in Fireproofing

Fireproofing services in Saudi Arabia must adhere to:

• Saudi Building Code

• Civil Defense fire safety regulations

• Municipality and industrial safety standards

• Manufacturer specifications for coatings

DTC ensures all coatings are applied and inspected according to these requirements, reducing liability and increasing safety.

Fireproofing Steel Structures in the Eastern Region

The Eastern Region, including Dammam and Al Khobar, hosts industrial hubs with high steel construction density. Fireproofing is especially important in:

• Warehouses and logistics centers

• Manufacturing plants

• Industrial service facilities

DTC’s local presence ensures timely mobilization, material availability, and compliance with regional safety authorities.

Advantages of Choosing DTC for Steel Fireproofing

Certified Expertise

• Experienced fireproofing supervisors and technicians

• Compliance with international and Saudi standards

• Quality assurance through testing and inspection

Integrated Industrial Services

• Coordination with structural steel erection

• MEP integration for fire detection and suppression

• Long-term maintenance recommendations

Safety-First Approach

• Site-specific risk assessments

• Controlled application environments

• PPE and HSE-compliant procedures

Common Challenges in Fireproofing Projects

• Surface preparation for aged or painted steel

• Achieving consistent coating thickness over complex geometry

• Coordination with ongoing construction or steel erection

• Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dust)

DTC mitigates these challenges with professional planning, skilled teams, and quality control measures.

Future Outlook of Steel Fireproofing in Saudi Arabia

With ongoing industrial expansion, logistics development, and infrastructure projects, the demand for high-quality steel fireproofing solutions will continue to grow.

Emerging trends include:

• Advanced intumescent coatings with higher performance

• Hybrid fireproofing systems for extreme industrial environments

• Integration with smart fire detection and suppression systems

• Greater focus on sustainable and low-VOC coatings

DTC remains at the forefront, delivering certified fireproofing solutions across Saudi Arabia’s industrial and commercial projects.

Protecting Steel Structures with Reliable Fireproofing Solutions

Fireproofing paint is a vital component of industrial and commercial steel construction in Saudi Arabia. Properly applied coatings protect structural steel, enhance safety, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

With extensive experience in Dammam, Al Khobar, and the Eastern Region, DTC delivers reliable, certified, and high-performance fireproofing solutions for factories, warehouses, energy facilities, and industrial complexes. Through meticulous planning, skilled application, and rigorous quality checks, DTC helps protect the Kingdom’s steel structures against fire risks, ensuring durability, safety, and peace of mind.