How Long Do Fireproof Safes Last?

The minimum lifespan of a fireproof safe in the middle of a fire typically depends on its fire rating, with most safes lasting between 30 minutes and two hours before there is potential risk to the contents inside. Determining the long-term durability of a safe, however, is more difficult.

One of the biggest dangers to business continuity is the risk of fire, as this can destroy documents, cause electronic storage to malfunction and damage valuables.

Buying a fireproof safe is an exceptionally important step to not only protect documents from fire but also reduce the risks of theft, but not all fireproof safes will keep valuables at the same temperature for the same amount of time.

As well as this, safes have components and materials that can degrade over time, albeit somewhat slowly, and this can have an effect on long-term security.

To explain the lifespan of a fireproof safe, we need to look at both elements, including what fireproof ratings mean, the average lifespan of a safe in a fire and the overall lifespan if they are kept safe.

What Does A Fireproof Rating Mean?

Fireproof items and materials, including safes, are given a rating, often known as a UL Rating, based on the company that primarily oversees the standardised testing.

UL ratings, such as UL Class 125 and UL Class 350, typically denote the maximum temperature the safe will reach in degrees Fahrenheit when exposed to a maximum temperature of 1700 degrees Fahrenheit (927 degrees Celsius).

As well as this, the safe will also have a time rating, typically ranging from 30 minutes to two hours, which denotes how long the safe will remain under the temperature limit.

For example, a safe rated UL Class 125 30 Minutes will keep the safe at under 125 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius) when exposed to temperatures over 1700 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 30 minutes.

Ultimately, the lower the class number, the more effective the safe is at keeping your valuables at lower temperatures.

Similarly, the longer it lasts, the more your safe can withstand, ideally meaning that any fire is extinguished before the safe can fail.

How Long Do Fireproof Safes Last?

Thankfully, not all fireproof safes need to withstand fires during their operating life, and in ideal circumstances, a typical fireproof safe will last between 20 and 30 years before its durability needs to be called into question.

This can vary considerably depending on how well it was made, how often it is opened, closed and moved, whether it is exposed to heavy amounts of moisture or humidity, and the effects of previous fires or extreme heat on the fireproof coating.

Telltale Signs A Fireproof Safe May Need Replacing

• A Fire Or Break-In Attempt – Even if they withstand a fire or attempt to break into the safe, the locking structure could be compromised and develop weaknesses only noticeable to a security expert.
• Missing Security Features – Security technology evolves quickly, and many features such as biometric access are not found on older safes.
• Cracked Or Degraded Fireproofing – Check the inner lining to ensure that it is still safe in case of fire
• Misaligned Door – If the hinges do not feel right or the door does not close right, it may no longer effectively protect your safe from fires.
• Visible Corrosion – If there is any rust it could compromise the entire security of the safe.