Are Container Houses Fireproof? The Answer Is Yes!

Q: Are Container Houses Fireproof?

A: Yes, container houses are fireproof.

Container houses, known for their durability, affordability, and sustainability, are gaining popularity worldwide. But one of the most commonly asked questions is: Are container houses fireproof? The answer lies in the materials used, design features, and safety upgrades applied during construction.

Container houses manufactured by CDPH (Chengdong Prefabricated Housing) achieve fire resistance with tested rock wool panels, 2-hour fireproof walls, and CE & COC certifications for international safety compliance.

Let's explore the fire safety profile of container houses in detail, helping engineering project contractors, engineering firms, and purchasers confidently choose fire-resistant container houses for engineering projects, construction camps, mining, oil & gas projects, emergencies, events, and more!

Fire Resistance of Shipping Container Houses

At the core, container houses are built from Corten steel, a weathering steel with a high melting point (approximately 1,500°C / 2,732°F). This gives them a strong natural resistance to fire compared to traditional wooden-framed houses. The steel structure does not easily ignite, which provides a foundational level of fire protection.

However, it's important to understand that the fire resistance of a container house doesn't rely solely on the steel shell. The fireproofing effectiveness depends on how the interior and exterior are treated, insulated, and finished.

Key Fire Safety Components in Container Houses

1. Fire Resistance Materials: Rock Wool Composite Panels

Many container houses use spray foam insulation or EPS (expanded polystyrene) panels, which are not inherently fireproof. To improve fire safety, fire-rated materials like rock wool, glass wool, or polyurethane with fire-retardant additives are recommended.

CDPH uses high-performance rock wool composite wall panels that provide superior thermal insulation and fire protection.

Fire Test Results Offered by CDPH (Certified by Intertek):

• 75mm and 100mm thick rock wool composite panels have passed 2-hour fire resistance tests.

• Floor and roof systems have been tested to withstand fire exposure for 1.5 hours.

These fire performance results have been certified under the COC (Certificate of Conformity) framework, confirming that CDPH container houses meet the stringent fire safety standards required by countries with strict building codes.

This ensures enhanced protection and compliance for a wide range of uses, including engineering projects, construction camps, infrastructure sites, emergency housing, events, military assistance, humanitarian aid, and temporary residential or office spaces.

2. Electrical Materials and Electrical System Design

In container houses, electrical wiring is often concealed within ceilings and walls, with most systems pre-integrated at the factory. Since electrical faults account for over 90% of fire-related safety incidents, the design, selection, and compliance of electrical components are critical.

Container houses should use:

• Certified fire-retardant wiring

• Circuit breakers and grounding

• Metal conduits for high-load areas

A professionally designed electrical layout significantly reduces fire risk.

At CDPH (Chengdong Prefabricated Housing), all electrical materials—including wires, sockets, distribution boxes, and other components—strictly comply with international safety standards. To further ensure performance, CDPH operates a dedicated in-house materials laboratory, where raw materials, semi-finished, and finished products undergo rigorous testing for mechanical strength, fire resistance, and corrosion protection etc.

3. Wall Finishes, Interior Design, and Functional Areas: Targeted Fire Protection

Wall finishes can also play a major role. Installing fire-rated gypsum boards, calcium silicate boards, or fire-resistant panels can greatly enhance fire safety.

In areas prone to higher fire risk, such as kitchens or utility rooms, should incorporate additional fire protection layers. For example:

• Fire-resistant wall linings around stoves

• Non-combustible finishes such as steel plates, metal splash panels, or ceramic board

• Automatic fire extinguishing systems

CDPH's container houses feature upgraded kitchen units with a composite wall structure consisting of a light steel keel, glass wool insulation, and calcium silicate board. This configuration significantly enhances fire protection.

CE Compliance of Container Houses Manufactured by CDPH

Container houses manufactured by CDPH are designed and built in full compliance with relevant European Union CE standards, ensuring safety, reliability, and environmental responsibility.

Key components and systems—including steel structures, insulation panels, electrical installations, windows, doors, and interior finishes—adhere to applicable CE directives, such as the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), Low Voltage Directive (LVD), and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC). This guarantees that our modular units meet the essential requirements for structural integrity, fire safety, energy efficiency, and electrical safety.

With CE certification as a globally recognized quality mark, CDPH container houses are well-positioned for export to international markets, including the Middle East, South America, and Africa, delivering trusted modular housing solutions that meet global expectations for performance and safety.

Tips for Enhancing Fire Protection in Container Houses

• Use non-combustible insulation materials

• Choose fire-rated wall and ceiling panels

• Install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers

• Keep a fire escape plan and maintain clear exits

• Upgrade kitchens and utility rooms with fireproof cladding

CDPH's Fireproof Container Houses: The Best Choice for Oil, Gas, and Mining Projects

In project-based sectors such as oil, gas, and mining, the risk of fire and explosion is significantly elevated due to the presence of flammable materials and hazardous operating conditions. These environments require temporary structures that are not only quick to deploy, but also offer enhanced safety and durability.

CDPH’s fireproof container houses are specifically designed to meet these challenges. Built with fire-resistant materials, such as rock wool composite wall panels and steel structures, they provide a reliable and secure solution for use as worker accommodations, kitchens, site offices, control rooms, and storage units in high-risk zones.

By combining modular convenience with fire safety compliance, CDPH container houses help project contractors and engineering firms reduce operational risks and protect human life and property in some of the world’s most demanding work environments.

As a global engineering camps solution provider, CDPH ensures each container house meets or exceeds local and international fire resistance standards through rigorous design, material selection, and third-party testing.

FAQs

1. Can Container Houses Be Certified as Fire-Resistant?

Yes. Many prefab and container house manufacturers can build houses that meet international fire safety certifications such as ASTM E119, BS 476, or EN 13501. When purchasing a container house, always check if the structure complies with local fire codes and international standards.

2. What is the Life Expectancy of a Container House?

CDPH (Chengdong Prefabricated Housing) designs container houses with a strong focus on durability, sustainability, and reusability. From material selection to manufacturing, we adhere to circular economy principles to reduce resource consumption and minimize construction waste.

Our container houses are engineered for multiple relocations and reuse:

• The main structure is designed for at least 10 relocations.

• The enclosure materials can withstand at least 5 reuse cycles.

To ensure long-term performance, structural design considers strength, corrosion resistance, and is guided by the ISO 12944 standard for corrosion environments. In C2 (low corrosion) environments, the minimum service life is 15 years.

For different project conditions and client needs, CDPH offers customized designs to meet specific service life and performance requirements.

3. Are Prefab Houses Safe?

Yes, prefab houses are safe — thanks to strict engineering standards, quality-controlled manufacturing, and durable materials used throughout the construction process.

4. Will Lightning Strike Shipping Container Houses?

Shipping container houses are not immune to lightning strikes, but they are generally safe due to their metal construction, which can help redirect the electrical charge to the ground, much like a lightning rod. However, proper grounding and electrical safety systems should still be in place to further reduce risks.