CWS-boco International GmbH
CWS-boco International GmbH
02/25/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/24/2026 23:07
Fire protection in tyre storage facilities
25 February 2026 Fire Safety
Tyre warehouses pose a considerable risk due to their high fire load and specific storage conditions. Tyres consist of around 40% rubber, enriched with plasticisers and vulcanising agents - a highly flammable combination.
A single burning tyre releases about as much energy as 20 kg of dried wood. In storage facilities with several thousand tyres, this results in extreme fire intensity.
Fire protection in tyre storage: further challenges
In addition, burning tyres release highly toxic fumes that severely impair visibility and hamper rescue operations. Without functioning fire protection technology, there is a high risk of total loss in an emergency. Firefighting is also challenging: tyres are water-repellent, dense and often stored upright on shelves. Cramped shelves, stacked tyres and limited ventilation promote rapid fire spread and make it difficult to access the source of the fire.
Potential ignition sources such as electrical installations, defective lighting or heating devices can cause accidental ignition. Combustible liquids such as oils or cleaning agents further increase the overall fire load. If tyres are stored outdoors, weather conditions and vandalism are additional risk factors.
Legal requirements & technical guidelines
The storage of tyres is subject to various legal requirements. These include:
- State building regulations (LBO) and the Model Industrial Building Directive (MIndBauRL)
- Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV)
- Technical rules for workplaces (ASR A2.2)
- Recommendations from property insurers and the fire brigade
- Model Plastic Storage Guideline (MKLR) - updated since March 2023, especially for old tyres or plastic waste from 200 m³
Effective fire protection measures for tyre storage facilities
A comprehensive fire protection concept for tyre storage takes three key areas into account:
1. Organisational fire protection
- Creation of an individual fire protection concept in consultation with all parties involved
- Fire safety regulations and regular training
- Strict smoking ban and control of potential ignition sources
- Fire permit for hot work
- Inspection of the storage facility with the responsible fire brigade to adapt the emergency plans
- Establish fire protection as a corporate goal
2. Structural fire protection
- Formation of fire-resistant fire compartments (e.g. EI 60 from 1 tonne of tyre mass or 100 m²)
- Compliance with safety distances and clear zones (e.g. 10 m for large storage quantities)
- Smoke and heat extraction systems for smoke extraction in the event of a fire
- Installation of suitable lighting (e.g. LED with limited surface temperature, no direct mounting above tyres, switchable via motion detector or timer)
3. Technical fire protection systems
- Automatic fire alarm systems with rapid detection and connection to the fire brigade
- Integration of fire alarms into burglar alarm technology (if available)
- Use of suitable extinguishing systems, e.g. sprinkler systems in accordance with DIN EN 12845 or water mist systems with reduced water consumption
- Sufficient supply of extinguishing water: approx. 300 litres per 100 kg of tyres
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Regular maintenance and inspection is mandatory
Regular maintenance and inspections are essential for reliable preventive fire protection in tyre storage facilities. All fire protection equipment should be inspected and serviced at least once a year by certified specialists to ensure that it is in good working order in the event of an emergency. In addition, the use of thermography can be helpful in detecting potential overheating at an early stage and initiating targeted countermeasures.
Furthermore, it is important to consistently remove all flammable liquids and old equipment that is no longer in use from the tyre storage area. Storage discipline also plays a crucial role: mixed storage with other materials is not permitted and can significantly increase the risk of fire.
How CWS Fire Safety supports fire protection in tyre storage facilities
As a comprehensive specialist in preventive fire protection, CWS Fire Safety offers individual solutions for tyre storage facilities of all sizes:
- Risk analysis and consultation directly on site
- Creation and implementation of tailor-made fire protection concepts
- Installation and maintenance of fire alarm systems, smoke and heat extraction systems and extinguishing technology
- Training for your employees
- Use of sustainable products such as fluorine-free fire extinguishers or water mist extinguishing systems
Our more than 20 locations in the United Kingdom guarantee short distances and rapid assistance - for effective protection of your employees, property and the environment.
Frequently asked questions
on fire protection in tyre storage facilities
What regulations apply to the storage of tyres?
Depending on the quantity and type of storage, the state building regulations, the MIndBauRL (Minimum Building Regulations) and, if applicable, the MKLR (Minimum Land Use Regulations) apply.
Which fire extinguishing systems are suitable for tyre storage facilities?
Sprinkler or water mist extinguishing systems are recommended. For large storage quantities, a hot foam system may be advisable.
How much water is needed to extinguish a fire?
Approximately 300 litres of extinguishing water should be planned for every 100 kg of tyres.
Are there any special requirements for the construction of tyre storage facilities?
Yes, above certain quantities, fire-resistant partitions (e.g. EI 60) and safety distances are mandatory. In addition, low fire load lighting should be installed.
Why is the type of storage crucial for firefighting?
Storing items upright on shelves hinders the penetration of extinguishing water. Storing items horizontally makes firefighting considerably easier.
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CWS-boco International GmbH published this content on February 25, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on February 25, 2026 at 05:07 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]