Sandwich panels have become a true “star” in modern construction, appearing in a wide range of projects—from factories and cold storage facilities to clean rooms and shopping malls—thanks to their lightweight structure, superior insulation, and fast installation.
However, amidst this wave of widespread application, many investors are overlooking a critical factor: fire safety. Harsh reality has shown that several recent major fires were caused by the use of cheap, highly flammable panels, resulting in devastating damage to property and human lives.
To meet fire safety standards, a sandwich panel must offer more than just good insulation. It must also pass stringent requirements: preventing flames from spreading, maintaining structural integrity under high heat, limiting heat transfer to adjacent areas, and most importantly, not emitting toxic smoke—a leading cause of fatalities in fire incidents.
The EI rating is a key benchmark for evaluating fire resistance performance:
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"E" stands for Integrity, meaning the panel can stop flames and hot gases from penetrating.
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"I" stands for Insulation, indicating the ability to keep the non-exposed surface at a safe temperature.
For example, a panel rated EI60 can withstand fire and heat for at least 60 minutes, providing critical time for evacuation and firefighting efforts.
Unfortunately, in Vietnam, many projects still favor EPS panels due to their low cost—despite the fact that this material is highly flammable, spreads fire quickly, and has caused severe consequences in the past.
In contrast, premium panels like Rockwool or PIR offer exceptional fire resistance and low smoke toxicity. These materials are becoming increasingly popular, although their higher cost still causes hesitation among some investors.
Even more concerning is the inconsistent fire safety certification and testing process, which can allow substandard materials to enter the market unchecked.
When choosing materials for your project, don’t focus solely on cost or construction speed. Prioritize safety. Select sandwich panels with clear EI certification from reputable organizations, and seriously consider fire-resistant materials such as Rockwool or PIR to ensure long-term protection.
Making the right investment today not only protects your assets and workers, but also elevates your business reputation—by delivering safe, resilient, and sustainable projects.
