Fire Proofing for Steel Structure Contractors in Saudi Arabia

February 15, 2026
12:19 pm

1 Hour Fire Proofing for Steel Structure Contractors in Saudi Arabia Reliable Passive Fire Protection Solutions by DTC General Contracting

Introduction

Fire protection is one of the most critical safety requirements in modern industrial and commercial construction. In Saudi Arabia, where large-scale industrial facilities, warehouses, factories, and logistics hubs are continuously expanding under Vision 2030, compliance with fire safety standards is mandatory. Among the most important fire protection systems is 1-hour fire proofing for steel structures, which ensures structural stability during fire incidents.

Steel is a strong and durable material under normal conditions. However, during a fire, steel rapidly loses its strength when exposed to high temperatures. Without fire protection, structural failure can occur within minutes. That is why 1-hour fire resistance rating systems are widely required in industrial and commercial projects across the Kingdom.

As a trusted contractor in Saudi Arabia, DTC General Contracting provides professional 1-hour fire proofing solutions for steel structures, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and long-term durability.

Why 1-Hour Fire Proofing Is Essential for Steel Structures

Steel begins to lose significant strength at temperatures above 400°C and can fail structurally at approximately 550°C–600°C. In a fire scenario, these temperatures can be reached quickly. Fire proofing systems delay heat transfer to the steel, maintaining its load-bearing capacity for a specified period—such as one hour.

A 1-hour fire rating means the protected steel structure can withstand fire exposure for at least 60 minutes without losing structural integrity. This critical time allows:

Safe evacuation of occupants
Firefighting operations
Prevention of structural collapse
Protection of equipment and assets
Compliance with Civil Defense regulations

In Saudi Arabia, many industrial facilities require a minimum of 1-hour fire rating depending on occupancy type and risk classification.

Common 1-Hour Fire Proofing Systems in Saudi Arabia

Professional contractors such as DTC General Contracting offer various fire proofing systems suitable for steel structures, including:

1. Cementitious Fireproofing (Spray-Applied)

Cement-based fireproofing materials are sprayed directly onto steel members. These systems are widely used in factories and warehouses due to:

Cost-effectiveness
Good thermal insulation
Suitable performance for industrial environments
Easy application on beams and columns

2. Intumescent Fireproofing Coatings

Intumescent coatings expand when exposed to high temperatures, forming a protective char layer that insulates the steel.

Advantages include:

Thin and aesthetic finish
Suitable for exposed steel structures
Ideal for commercial buildings
Clean application and smooth appearance

3. Fireproof Boards and Encasement Systems

Fire-resistant boards or cladding systems provide mechanical protection and thermal resistance.

These are commonly used in:

High-end commercial projects
Critical structural areas
Projects requiring clean finishes

Applications of 1-Hour Fire Proofing in Saudi Arabia

1-hour fire protection is commonly required in:

Industrial factories
Warehouses and logistics centers
Commercial buildings
Shopping malls
Parking structures
Power plants
Oil & gas support facilities
Industrial cities (MODON projects)

DTC General Contracting delivers fireproofing services for new construction projects as well as retrofit and upgrade works.

Saudi Regulations and Compliance

Fireproofing works in Saudi Arabia must comply with:

Saudi Building Code (SBC)
Civil Defense requirements
International standards such as ASTM and UL
Approved testing certifications
Project-specific consultant specifications

A professional contractor ensures:

Approved materials from certified manufacturers
Proper thickness measurement
Inspection and testing documentation
Compliance certificates upon completion

DTC General Contracting works closely with consultants and authorities to guarantee full compliance.

Execution Process for 1-Hour Fire Proofing

A structured process ensures quality and performance:

1. Surface Preparation

Steel surfaces must be clean and properly primed before application. Surface inspection ensures adhesion and long-term durability.

2. Application

Depending on the system selected:

Spray equipment for cementitious materials
Roller or spray application for intumescent coatings
Mechanical fixing for fire boards

3. Thickness Control

Each fire rating requires a specific dry film thickness. Professional contractors use calibrated gauges to verify thickness.

4. Inspection and Testing

On-site inspections and documentation ensure the fireproofing system meets design requirements.

Advantages of Choosing DTC General Contracting

As a specialized contractor in Saudi Arabia, DTC General Contracting provides:

Experienced technical teams
Approved fireproofing materials
Skilled applicators
Strict quality control
Compliance with Saudi Civil Defense
Competitive pricing
Timely project delivery

DTC understands the industrial and environmental conditions in the Kingdom, ensuring durable and high-performance fire protection systems.

Cost Factors for 1-Hour Fire Proofing in Saudi Arabia

The cost of 1-hour fireproofing depends on:

Type of fireproofing system
Required thickness
Steel section size (Hp/A ratio)
Project size and complexity
Site conditions
Access requirements

Cementitious systems are generally more economical, while intumescent coatings offer aesthetic and space-saving benefits at a higher cost.

Importance in Industrial and Warehouse Projects

Saudi Arabia’s rapid industrial growth has increased the need for safe structural systems. Warehouses and factories often contain:

Flammable materials
Heavy machinery
High storage racks
Large open-span steel structures

Fireproofing ensures that these facilities remain structurally stable during fire emergencies, minimizing risk to human life and property.

Sustainability and Long-Term Performance

Modern fireproofing systems are designed to:

Provide long-term durability
Resist humidity and temperature fluctuations
Maintain adhesion under industrial conditions
Minimize maintenance costs

DTC General Contracting selects materials that meet performance requirements for Saudi climate conditions.

Why 1-Hour Fire Rating Is a Smart Investment

While fireproofing may seem like an additional cost, it is a critical investment in:

Life safety
Asset protection
Insurance compliance
Regulatory approval
Business continuity

Structural collapse due to fire can cause catastrophic financial and operational damage. A 1-hour fireproofing system significantly reduces such risks.

Future of Fireproofing in Saudi Arabia

As Saudi Arabia continues to expand industrial cities, logistics hubs, and mega projects, fire safety standards are becoming more stringent. The demand for certified fireproofing contractors will continue to grow.

Contractors like DTC General Contracting that combine technical expertise, compliance knowledge, and efficient execution will remain essential partners in the Kingdom’s development journey.

1-hour fire proofing for steel structures is a critical requirement for modern construction projects in Saudi Arabia. It ensures structural stability, enhances safety, and complies with regulatory standards. Whether using cementitious coatings, intumescent paints, or fireproof board systems, professional application is essential for achieving certified performance.

DTC General Contracting stands as a reliable fireproofing contractor in Saudi Arabia, delivering safe, compliant, and high-quality passive fire protection solutions for industrial and commercial projects across the Kingdom.