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Fire-Rated Duct Standards in Vietnam (2026): A Guide to the Latest QCVN and TCVN Requirements
Learn about the latest Vietnamese regulations and standards governing fire-rated air duct systems, including QCVN 06:2022/BXD, TCVN 5687:2024, and the fire testing standards required for HVAC projects.
Fire-Rated Duct Requirements and Installation Regulations
QCVN 06:2022/BXD – National Technical Regulation on Fire Safety of Buildings and Constructions
QCVN 06:2022/BXD is Vietnam’s primary fire safety regulation governing buildings and construction works.
For fire-rated air duct systems, the regulation specifies:
- Minimum fire resistance ratings (EI)
- Required installation locations
- Fire compartment penetration requirements
- Smoke extraction and pressurization duct requirements
Fire Resistance Rating (EI)
One of the most important concepts introduced in QCVN 06 is the fire resistance rating (EI).
It consists of two performance criteria:
E – Integrity
The ability of a duct system to prevent flames and hot gases from passing through for a specified period.
I – Insulation
The ability to limit temperature rise on the side of the duct not directly exposed to fire.
Typical fire resistance classifications for HVAC ductwork include:
- EI30
- EI45
- EI60
- EI90
- EI120
The required fire rating depends on:
- Building occupancy
- HVAC system function
- Installation location
- Fire compartment design
Fire performance must be verified through testing conducted by qualified laboratories or accredited conformity assessment organizations in accordance with current regulations.
Typical Fire Resistance Requirements
| Fire Rating | Typical Applications* |
|---|---|
| EI30 | • Horizontal smoke exhaust ducts in corridors• Horizontal pressurization ducts across door openings• Smoke exhaust systems discharging outdoors |
| EI45 | • Vertical smoke exhaust shafts• Dampers in smoke exhaust systems |
| EI60 | • Horizontal smoke exhaust ducts in basements and parking garages• Horizontal pressurization ducts in basements• Above-ground vertical pressurization shafts• Fire dampers |
| EI90 | • Fire dampers• Locations specifically requiring EI90 according to the approved fire protection design |
| EI120 | • Smoke exhaust ducts routed outside fire compartments• Basement pressurization shafts• Fire dampers |
| EI180 | • Vertical smoke exhaust shafts serving basements and underground parking garages |
📌 Note
This table is provided for general reference only. The required fire resistance rating must always be determined based on the approved fire protection design, building type, and the requirements of QCVN 06:2022/BXD.
Fire Testing Standards for Fire-Rated Air Ducts
Selecting the appropriate fire resistance rating is only one aspect of compliance.
Fire-rated duct systems must also be tested and certified in accordance with recognized fire testing standards.
The most commonly referenced standards include:
TCVN 9311-1:2024
This Vietnamese standard specifies the general principles and testing conditions for evaluating the fire resistance of building elements.
It serves as the national framework for assessing the fire performance of various construction components, including fire-rated air ducts.
ISO 6944-1:2008
ISO 6944-1:2008 is the internationally recognized test standard specifically developed for evaluating the fire resistance of ventilation ductwork under fire conditions.
Within QCVN 06:2022/BXD, ISO 6944-1 is one of the principal test methods referenced for assessing and certifying the fire performance of EI-rated air duct systems.
System Design Standard
TCVN 5687:2024 – Ventilation and Air Conditioning – Design Requirements
While QCVN 06:2022/BXD focuses on fire safety requirements, TCVN 5687:2024 provides the primary technical guidance for HVAC system design.
The standard establishes design requirements covering:
- Airflow distribution
- Air velocity
- Pressure calculations
- Ventilation requirements
- Noise control
- General HVAC operating parameters
Together, these standards help ensure HVAC systems are both efficient and compliant with Vietnam’s safety regulations.
Can International Certifications Replace Vietnamese Certification?
Many imported fire-rated duct systems are supplied with internationally recognized certifications such as:
- UL
- CE
- International fire resistance test reports
However, for construction projects in Vietnam, these certifications are generally regarded as supporting documentation only.
Fire-rated ductwork must still comply with Vietnamese regulatory requirements, including applicable testing, certification, and conformity assessment procedures required by the competent authorities.
Therefore, project owners, consultants, and contractors should carefully review all technical documentation before selecting a fire-rated duct system to ensure full compliance with project specifications and local regulations.
Vietnam’s regulatory framework for fire-rated air duct systems continues to evolve in line with increasingly stringent fire safety requirements.
Compliance with applicable regulations for design, fire testing, certification, fabrication, and installation not only helps projects satisfy legal requirements but also ensures HVAC systems operate safely, reliably, and efficiently throughout the building’s lifecycle.
📌 Note
The information presented in this article is compiled from publicly available references and reflects the applicable standards and regulations at the time of writing. It is intended for general informational purposes only. For specific projects, designers and contractors should consult the latest regulations and qualified fire protection or HVAC professionals to ensure full technical and regulatory compliance.
