Types of Fire-Resistant Glass Doors: EI, EW & E Ratings Explained
What Fire Ratings Mean
Fire‑resistant glass doors are tested to determine how they perform in a fire.
E → Stops flames & hot gases
EW → Stops fire + reduces radiant heat
EI → Stops fire + blocks heat transfer
More protection → higher rating.
Understanding E, EW & EI with Time Ratings
Fire ratings also include time performance in minutes.
E30 / E60 / E120 → Prevents flames & smoke for 30, 60, or 120 minutes.
EW30 / EW60 → Controls flames + limits radiant heat for a set time.
EI30 / EI60 / EI120 → Provides full insulation, stopping heat transfer for maximum protection.
The number indicates how long the system provides protection during fire exposure.
Why These Ratings Matter
Fire ratings determine how safe it is for people to evacuate during a fire.
Different ratings offer different levels of protection; choosing the right rating is critical for life safety. They affect:
Fire containment
Heat exposure levels
Safe evacuation
Choosing the right rating = better life safety and code compliance
E-Rated Glass Door
Rating: Integrity (E)
What it does:
Stops flames & hot gases
Prevents fire from spreading
Why it matters: Contains the fire, but does not control the heat radiation form fire side to protected side!
Limitation: Not suitable for escape routes or high-occupancy areas.
Best for: Vision panels in metal door and Internal, commercial kitchen partitions and basic fire separation.
EW-Rated Glass Door
What it does:
Stops flames & smoke
Reduces radiant heat exposure on the non-fire side
Why it matters: Uncontrolled radiant heat can ignite materials or injure occupants even when flames are contained. The radiation control of EW rated solutions improves safety in nearby spaces.
Best for: Corridors, lobbies, and circulation areas and refugee areas
EI-Rated Glass Door
Rating: Integrity + Insulation (EI)
What it does
Stops flames & smoke
Insulates against heat transfer
Keeps the non-fire side significantly cooler during a fire
Why it matters
Protects people in close proximity by providing insulation from radiant heat
Critical for areas where people must wait, pass, or gather during evacuation
Keeps surface temperature rise under 140°C, making evacuation areas safer for movement and waiting
EI prevents surfaces from reaching burn-risk temperatures.
Best for: Escape routes, staircases, high-occupancy areas
Quick Comparison: E vs EW vs EI
Rating | Flames and Hot Gases | Smoke | Heat radiation Protection |
E | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖ |
EW | ✔️ | ✔️ | Partial Radiation Protection |
EI | ✔️ | ✔️ | Full |
Which One Should You Choose?
Selection Guide
Choose E for basic fire separation
Choose EW to reduce radiant heat
Choose EI for maximum life safety in escape routes
Vetrotech Saint-Gobain delivers certified fire-resistant glazing that protects lives, ensures compliance, and supports modern design.
