European Fire Research Institute
Advancing Fire Science. Engineering Safety. Shaping the Future of Fire Standards.
Independent European hub for fire research, full-scale testing and development of advanced fire protection solutions.
Contact usWho we are
The European Fire Research Institute (EFRI)
Is an independent research and testing center dedicated to advanced fire experimentation, engineering validation, and development of innovative fire safety solutions.
Located in Cadriano, Bologna (Italy), EFRI operates as a strategic European hub where industry, research, and testing converge to support safer buildings, infrastructures, and industrial environments.
EFRI works in collaboration with engineering companies, insurance entities, certification bodies, maintenance operators, and product manufacturers active in the fire protection sector.
The institute maintains strong cooperation with leading academic institutions, including the University of Bologna and the Free University of Bolzano, promoting research, experimentation, and knowledge transfer.
Our services
Advanced Solutions for Fire Testing and Experimental Research
We provide support in the design and development of full-scale fire tests, both for verification of compliance with regulatory standards and for experimental studies addressing practical cases and complex fire scenarios.
Fire Testing & Experimental Research
We support companies and designers in the development and execution of full-scale fire tests, both to verify compliance with standards and regulations and to carry out practical studies on complex scenarios that cannot be fully addressed through analytical or theoretical approaches alone.
Our activities include:
- Full-scale testing for validation of products and technologies
- Experimental testing on specific fire scenarios
- Support to manufacturers in conducting tests required by standards and certifications
- Practical studies for complex fire safety challenges
- Performance assessment of fire protection solutions
Specialized Product Testing
EFRI conducts dedicated testing activities on fire protection systems and components, including:
- Water mist systems testing according to FM 5560
- Testing in accordance with EN 14972
- Custom experimental campaigns for innovative fire protection technologies
- Performance verification under realistic fire conditions
Facility & Location
Strategic Location
EFRI is located in:
Via XX Settembre 32, Cadriano – Bologna, Italy
The institute benefits from:
- Central position within Northern Italy,
- Excellent accessibility from major European cities,
- Proximity to Bologna International Airport,
- Easy access for industrial partners and international clients,
- Operational independence due to industrial surroundings.
This strategic positioning makes EFRI easily reachable for partners, manufacturers, and research institutions across Europe.
Collaboration ecosystem
EFRI Ecosystem
EFRI is an independent organization, but operates in strong cooperation with:
- Fire safety engineering firms,
- Insurance companies,
- Certification and validation bodies,
- Fire protection installers and maintainers,
- Manufacturers of fire protection systems,
- Universities and research centers.
This network allows EFRI to operate as a collaborative innovation platform for the entire fire safety sector.
Our vision
Shaping the Future of Fire Testing and Fire Safety
EFRI aims to become a European reference center for fire research and testing. The institute’s long-term goal is to develop the technical authority, competence, and infrastructure necessary to contribute to the creation of future European fire safety standards. Through collaboration, innovation, and scientific rigor, EFRI intends to support safer environments and advance fire protection technologies worldwide.