Fire Resistant File Box: Performance, Specifications, and How to Apply It in Industry

Types of Fireproof Filing Boxes and Safes

A fireproof filing box is an essential protective storage solution designed to safeguard critical documents, valuables, and data from fire, heat, and sometimes water damage. These containers are vital for individuals, businesses, and institutions seeking to preserve irreplaceable items such as legal records, financial documents, identification, and personal mementos. With various types available, each fireproof storage option offers unique features tailored to different needs—ranging from portability and waterproofing to high-security vaults for enterprise use.

Fire Resistance File Boxes

Durable, portable containers engineered to protect hanging files and organized paperwork during a fire. Constructed with fire-resistant materials like ceramic fiber insulation and steel exteriors, these boxes maintain internal temperatures below critical levels (typically under 350°F) for up to 1 hour at temperatures exceeding 1,700°F externally.

Advantages

• Portable and easy to relocate during emergencies
• Designed for standard hanging file folders
• Often includes locking mechanisms or tamper-evident seals
• Ideal for home offices and small businesses

Limitations

• Limited capacity compared to larger safes or cabinets
• May not offer waterproof protection unless specified
• Shorter fire rating duration than heavy-duty vaults

Best for: Home users, mobile professionals, emergency document transport

Fireproof Metal Filing Cabinets

Robust office storage units built with reinforced steel and fire-resistant insulation to protect multiple drawers of documents. Unlike standard filing cabinets, fireproof models are UL-rated and maintain safe internal temperatures during prolonged exposure to fire.

Advantages

• High document capacity with multi-drawer configurations
• Secure locking systems (keyed or combination locks)
• Professional appearance suitable for office environments
• Available in various sizes (1 to 5 drawers)

Limitations

• Bulky and not easily portable
• Requires floor space and anchoring for safety
• Premium models can be costly

Best for: Offices, law firms, medical practices, corporate document storage

Fire & Waterproof Storage Boxes

Advanced protection units featuring airtight seals with rubber gaskets that activate under heat or water pressure. These boxes are tested to withstand submersion in water (up to 2 feet for 24+ hours) while maintaining fire resistance for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Advantages

• Double protection: resists both fire and water damage
• Sealed design prevents moisture intrusion during firefighting or floods
• Ideal for disaster-prone areas
• Great for storing digital media (USBs, hard drives)

Limitations

• Heavier due to dual-layer construction
• Higher cost than standard fireproof boxes
• Opening mechanism may require more force after sealing

Best for: Coastal regions, basements, emergency preparedness kits

Portable Fireproof Boxes

Compact, lightweight safes designed for quick evacuation and personal use. These units are ideal for safeguarding essential items like passports, birth certificates, jewelry, flash drives, and insurance policies.

Advantages

• Lightweight and easy to carry or store in vehicles
• Quick access in emergencies
• Often includes mounting brackets for hidden storage
• Affordable entry point into fire protection

Limitations

• Limited storage space
• Lower fire rating duration (typically 30 minutes)
• Less robust security than larger safes

Best for: Families, renters, travelers, emergency go-bags

Heavy-Duty Fireproof Vaults

Industrial-grade secure rooms or large cabinets engineered to endure extreme conditions for extended periods (up to 4 hours at 2,000°F). These are often constructed with reinforced concrete, steel plating, and advanced insulation layers. Some feature rotary designs or modular shelving for maximum efficiency.

Advantages

• Maximum fire endurance and structural integrity
• High-capacity storage for archives and sensitive records
• Advanced access control (biometrics, digital locks)
• Used by banks, government agencies, and data centers

Limitations

• Extremely heavy and permanently installed
• High cost and professional installation required
• Not practical for residential use

Best for: Financial institutions, government offices, legal archives, enterprise data backup

Fire-Resistant Safes

Mid-sized secure containers combining fire protection with theft resistance. Typically made from thick steel with intumescent seals that expand when heated, these safes also feature dual locking systems—such as electronic keypads with mechanical override keys or combination dials.

Advantages

• Balances size, security, and fire protection
• Suitable for both home and office use
• Can store firearms, cash, and sensitive documents
• Available in floor, wall, or cabinet-mount options

Limitations

• Requires anchoring to prevent theft
• Limited file organization compared to filing cabinets
• Potential lockout risk without backup access

Best for: Homeowners, small business owners, mixed-use storage

Type	Fire Rating	Water Resistance	Portability	Best Use Case
Fire Resistance File Boxes	30–60 min	Optional	High	Home offices, document transport
Fireproof Metal Filing Cabinets	60 min	No	Low	Corporate offices, legal records
Fire & Waterproof Storage Boxes	30–120 min	Yes	Medium	Flood zones, disaster preparedness
Portable Fireproof Boxes	30 min	Some models	Very High	Emergency evacuation, personal items
Heavy-Duty Fireproof Vaults	2–4 hours	Yes (custom)	None	Government, banking, large archives
Fire-Resistant Safes	30–120 min	Select models	Medium	Home security, mixed storage

Expert Tip: Always verify the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL certification when purchasing a fireproof container. Look for specific ratings such as "1-hour fire protection at 1,700°F" and ensure the product has been independently tested for both fire and water resistance if needed.

Design of Fire-Resistant Filing Boxes: Functionality, Safety, and Efficiency

Fire-resistant filing boxes are engineered not only to protect critical documents from fire damage but also to support efficient organization, ease of access, and safe handling in both daily office use and emergency situations. Their design integrates structural integrity, ergonomic functionality, and security features to meet the demands of modern workplaces, archives, and mobile environments. Thoughtful design ensures that users can store, retrieve, and transport sensitive materials with confidence and minimal physical strain.

Filing System and Organizational Efficiency

Hanging File Compatibility

Most fire-resistant filing boxes are designed to accommodate standard hanging files, similar to traditional filing cabinets. This compatibility allows seamless integration into existing office systems, enabling users to transfer files without reorganizing entire document structures.

The interior dimensions are precisely calibrated to support letter- or legal-sized hanging folders, ensuring smooth insertion and removal. This feature is particularly valuable during audits, legal proceedings, or emergency evacuations when quick access is essential.

Labeled Dividers and Custom Organization

Advanced models include pre-labeled or customizable dividers that allow users to categorize documents by department, project, date, or confidentiality level. These dividers are often made from fire-resistant materials themselves, preserving classification integrity even under extreme conditions.

Color-coded tabs and index systems further enhance retrieval speed, reducing time spent searching for critical records during high-pressure scenarios such as compliance checks or disaster recovery operations.

Ergonomic Design for Safe and Efficient Use

Comfortable Handles and Lifting Mechanisms

Ergonomically designed handles are positioned for balanced weight distribution, minimizing wrist and shoulder strain during transport. Many models feature padded or contoured grips made from heat-resistant materials, ensuring safe handling even in elevated temperatures.

The placement and strength of handles are tested to support the full weight of a fully loaded box, preventing accidental drops that could damage documents or injure personnel during evacuation.

Smooth-Opening Lids and Drawers

Filing boxes utilize low-friction hinges, sliders, or drawer mechanisms that open smoothly without jamming or requiring excessive force. This is especially important in emergency situations where speed and reliability are critical.

Some models incorporate gas-assisted lifts or spring-loaded mechanisms to keep lids open during use, freeing up hands for document handling and improving overall user experience.

Wheels and Mobility Features

For larger or heavier models, integrated wheels or casters significantly improve portability. Swivel casters allow for 360-degree maneuverability, making it easier to navigate tight office spaces, elevators, or evacuation routes.

Locking wheels provide stability when the box is stationary, preventing unintended movement during file access. This combination of mobility and control enhances both safety and convenience in dynamic work environments.

Access Control and Security Features

Locking Mechanisms

Security is a core aspect of fire-resistant filing box design. Multiple locking options are available, including key locks, combination locks, and slide bolt systems, each offering different levels of access control and convenience.

High-security models may feature pick-resistant locks or electronic keypads with audit trail capabilities, ideal for environments requiring strict document accountability, such as legal firms, healthcare facilities, or government offices.

Secure Yet Accessible Closures

While security is paramount, the design also prioritizes rapid access when needed. Zippered seals, latching lids, and quick-release mechanisms allow authorized users to open the box swiftly during emergencies without compromising protection.

These closures are engineered to maintain a tight seal against smoke, water, and heat while remaining user-friendly under stress—ensuring that protection does not come at the cost of usability.

Durability, Portability, and Environmental Resistance

Lightweight, Impact-Resistant Materials

Modern fire-resistant filing boxes are constructed from advanced composites, including fiberglass-reinforced plastics, galvanized steel, and ceramic insulation layers. These materials provide excellent thermal protection while keeping overall weight manageable for easy transport.

The use of impact-resistant exteriors ensures that the box can withstand drops, bumps, and rough handling during relocation or evacuation, preserving the integrity of stored documents.

Thermal and Environmental Protection

Beyond fire resistance, these boxes are designed to endure extreme conditions such as high humidity, water exposure (from sprinkler systems), and temperature fluctuations. Multi-layered insulation and sealed seams prevent moisture ingress and maintain internal temperatures below safe thresholds for paper and digital media.

Many models are tested to meet industry standards like UL 72 or ASTM E119, certifying their ability to protect contents at temperatures up to 1700°F for specified durations (typically 30 minutes to 2 hours).

Design Feature	Function	Best Use Cases
Hanging File Support	Enables compatibility with standard office filing systems	Offices, legal firms, educational institutions
Ergonomic Handles	Reduces physical strain during lifting and transport	Mobility-focused environments, emergency preparedness
Combination Locks	Provides secure, keyless access control	Shared workspaces, multi-user departments
Swivel Casters	Enhances maneuverability in tight spaces	Hospitals, archives, large office complexes
Thermal Insulation Layer	Protects documents from fire and heat damage	High-risk areas, server rooms, industrial settings

Important: Always verify that your fire-resistant filing box meets recognized safety standards (e.g., UL, ETL) and is rated for the type of documents you store. Regularly inspect locks, seals, and structural integrity to ensure continued protection. Never overload the box beyond its recommended capacity, as this can compromise both portability and fire resistance.

Scenarios for Fire-Resistant Filing Boxes

Fire-resistant filing boxes are essential protective storage solutions designed to safeguard critical documents and valuables across a wide range of environments. Their durability, portability, and resistance to fire, water, and unauthorized access make them ideal for both personal and professional use. Understanding the diverse scenarios in which these boxes excel helps customers choose the right product based on their specific needs, risk exposure, and emergency preparedness goals.

Home Use

In residential settings, fire-resistant filing boxes serve as secure repositories for irreplaceable personal documents and small valuables. These include legal contracts, property deeds, wills, insurance policies, birth certificates, tax records, and financial statements—items that are difficult or costly to replace if lost.

• Waterproof and fireproof construction protects against common household disasters such as kitchen fires, electrical faults, and burst pipes
• Compact, lightweight designs allow for quick retrieval during emergency evacuations
• Some models include interior organizers or lockable compartments for jewelry, USB drives, or heirloom items
• UL-rated fire protection (typically 30–60 minutes at 1700°F) ensures data integrity even in severe conditions

Pro tip: Store digital backups (e.g., encrypted USB drives) alongside physical documents for comprehensive protection.

Office Environments

In corporate and small business offices, fire-resistant filing boxes help maintain compliance with data protection regulations (such as HIPAA, GDPR, or SOX) while securing sensitive operational records. They provide a reliable layer of defense against fire, flooding, and theft—common risks in commercial buildings.

• Secure storage for client contracts, employee records, intellectual property, and financial ledgers
• Locking mechanisms and tamper-evident seals deter unauthorized access
• Clearly labeled or color-coded boxes support efficient document management and audit readiness
• Portable design enables safe evacuation of critical business data during emergencies

Key benefit: Ensures business continuity by protecting essential records needed for post-disaster recovery.

Educational Institutions

Schools, colleges, and universities rely on fire-resistant filing boxes to protect institutional integrity and student privacy. These facilities house vast amounts of sensitive academic, legal, and administrative records that must be preserved for accreditation, compliance, and historical purposes.

• Safeguards permanent student records, transcripts, disciplinary files, and faculty contracts
• Protects accreditation documents, grant applications, and federal compliance reports
• Supports disaster recovery plans by ensuring access to essential records after emergencies
• Helps meet FERPA requirements by providing secure, access-controlled storage

Critical insight: A single fireproof box can preserve years of academic history and legal standing for an institution.

Financial and Legal Services

Law firms, accounting offices, banks, and investment advisors handle highly confidential client information that demands the highest level of physical security. Fire-resistant filing boxes are a crucial component of their risk mitigation strategy.

• Protects wills, trusts, litigation files, tax returns, and financial portfolios
• Meets regulatory standards for document retention and confidentiality (e.g., ABA guidelines, SEC rules)
• Provides dual protection against fire and water damage—critical in high-rise buildings with sprinkler systems
• Lockable models with key or combination access control ensure only authorized personnel can retrieve documents

Best practice: Use fire-rated safes or filing boxes in conjunction with digital encryption for layered data security.

Emergency Preparedness

For individuals and organizations in disaster-prone areas, fire-resistant filing boxes are a cornerstone of emergency planning. Whether facing wildfires, hurricanes, floods, or earthquakes, having a portable, durable container for vital documents significantly improves recovery speed and reduces stress.

• Residents in wildfire zones store insurance policies, identification, and family records for rapid evacuation
• Flood-prone regions benefit from waterproof-rated boxes that float and resist submersion
• Hurricane preparedness kits often include fireproof boxes with emergency contacts, medical records, and deed copies
• Earthquake-prone areas use them to protect documents from falling debris and post-quake fires

Smart strategy: Keep the box in an easily accessible location (e.g., near the front door or garage) and include a printed emergency checklist inside.

Additional Use Cases

Beyond the primary scenarios, fire-resistant filing boxes are valuable in niche applications where document security and durability are paramount.

• Healthcare Providers: Store patient records, medical licenses, and compliance documentation
• Nonprofits & Religious Organizations: Protect donor records, bylaws, and historical archives
• Remote Workers: Secure home office documents without needing a full safe
• Rental Properties: Landlords use them to store lease agreements and maintenance logs

Versatility note: Modern designs blend functionality with aesthetics, making them suitable for living rooms, home offices, or executive suites.

Expert Recommendation: When advising customers, emphasize the importance of matching the box’s fire rating (e.g., 30-min vs. 1-hour protection), waterproof certification, and lock type to their specific environment and risk level. For maximum protection, recommend storing digital backups (on encrypted drives) inside the box alongside physical documents. Regularly updating contents and testing locks ensures long-term reliability.

Scenario	Primary Use	Recommended Features	Compliance Needs
Home Use	Personal documents, IDs, valuables	Waterproof, portable, lockable	None (personal security)
Office Environments	Client files, HR records, contracts	Fire-rated, tamper-proof, organized	GDPR, HIPAA, SOX
Educational Institutions	Student records, accreditation docs	Durable, lockable, high-capacity	FERPA, state regulations
Financial & Legal Services	Confidential client data, legal files	1-hour fire rating, dual locks, audit trail	ABA, SEC, IRS guidelines
Emergency Preparedness	Insurance, deeds, emergency contacts	Floating design, quick-access, waterproof	Disaster recovery planning

Key Selection Criteria

• Fire Rating: Look for UL or ETL certification indicating duration and temperature resistance (e.g., 1-hour at 1700°F)
• Water Resistance: Sealed gaskets and submersion ratings protect against floods and sprinkler systems
• Security: Key locks, combination locks, or biometric access enhance protection against theft
• Portability: Handles, lightweight materials, and compact sizes aid in emergency evacuation
• Interior Organization: Dividers, pouches, and document sleeves improve usability and access speed

Fire-Resistant Filing Boxes: Specifications & Maintenance Guide

Fire-resistant filing boxes are essential for businesses and individuals seeking to protect sensitive documents from fire, water, and environmental damage. Understanding their specifications and proper maintenance ensures optimal performance, longevity, and peace of mind. Selecting the right box and caring for it correctly helps safeguard critical records, legal files, financial documents, and personal data for years to come.

Safety & Compliance Note: Always verify that your fire-resistant filing box meets recognized safety standards such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL certifications. These ratings indicate tested fire endurance (e.g., 30-minute, 1-hour protection at 1700°F) and ensure your documents remain protected under real fire conditions.

Key Specifications of Fire-Resistant Filing Boxes

Filing boxes are engineered with specific materials, dimensions, and storage capabilities to meet diverse organizational and security needs. Choosing the right specifications ensures compatibility with your document types and storage environment.

• Material & Construction: Fireproof filing boxes are constructed from durable, fire-inhibiting materials designed to withstand high temperatures and moisture exposure. Common materials include:
  • Steel: Offers the highest level of protection. Made from thick-gauge steel with a fire-resistant inner lining (often intumescent material that expands when heated), steel boxes provide excellent defense against fire, impact, and theft. Ideal for storing irreplaceable records and valuables.
  • Plastic (Fire-Retardant Polymers): Lightweight and water-resistant, these boxes use specially treated plastics that resist ignition and melting. Suitable for moderate-risk environments where portability is a priority.
  • Heavy-Duty Fabric (Fire-Resistant Coated Textiles): Often used in portable or temporary storage solutions, these flexible boxes feature flame-retardant coatings and moisture barriers. Best for short-term protection or mobile offices.
• Dimensions & Sizing: Boxes are manufactured in standardized sizes to accommodate common paper formats. Selecting the correct size ensures efficient use of space and proper document fit.
  • Letter-Size Boxes: Designed for standard 8.5" x 11" documents. Internal dimensions typically measure around 9" x 12" x 10" to allow for easy insertion and removal of files.
  • Legal-Size Boxes: Built for longer legal documents (8.5" x 14"). Common internal dimensions are approximately 9" x 15" x 10", making them ideal for law firms, HR departments, and archival storage.
  • Custom & Specialty Sizes: Available for oversized blueprints, ledgers, or binders. Always confirm internal capacity before purchasing.
• Storage Capacity: Capacity varies significantly based on box size and design:
  • Compact models hold 500–1,000 sheets and are perfect for personal or small-office use.
  • Mid-size boxes accommodate 1,000–2,500 sheets or multiple hanging file folders.
  • Large-capacity units can store over 3,000 pages, thick ledgers, or several bound volumes—ideal for departmental or archival storage.
  • Some models include adjustable dividers or hanging rails for organized file management.

Material Type	Fire Resistance	Water Protection	Best Use Case	Durability
Steel	High (30–60 min at 1700°F)	Excellent (sealed gaskets)	Offices, legal firms, long-term archives	★★★★★
Fire-Retardant Plastic	Moderate (15–30 min)	Good (non-porous surface)	Home offices, temporary storage	★★★★☆
Fire-Resistant Fabric	Basic (10–15 min)	Fair (water-resistant coating)	Mobile professionals, field work	★★★☆☆

Essential Maintenance Practices

To maintain the integrity and protective capabilities of fire-resistant filing boxes, regular care and inspection are crucial. Proper maintenance prevents premature degradation and ensures the box performs as intended during an emergency.

• Inspect for Damage Regularly: Conduct monthly checks for signs of wear such as dented corners, cracked seams, warped lids, or compromised fire seals. Pay special attention to locking mechanisms, handles, and wheels—components that endure frequent stress.
• Keep the Exterior Clean: Dust and grime can degrade protective coatings over time. Wipe down the box weekly with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage fire-resistant finishes.
• Store in a Safe Environment: Place the box in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or high-humidity areas like basements or attics. Prolonged exposure to heat or moisture can weaken insulation layers and reduce fire protection efficacy.
• Maintain Locking Mechanisms: For boxes with locks, apply a graphite-based lubricant every 3–6 months to prevent jamming. Avoid oil-based lubricants, which can attract dust and gum up the mechanism. Test the lock regularly to ensure smooth operation.
• Check Seals and Gaskets: If your box has a fire-rated door seal, inspect it annually for cracks or compression fatigue. A damaged seal can compromise the box’s ability to contain heat during a fire.

Pro Tip: Label your fireproof filing box clearly with its contents and date of storage. This not only improves organization but also helps emergency responders or recovery teams identify critical documents quickly after an incident.

Additional Recommendations

• Rotate stored documents periodically to prevent paper degradation from prolonged compression.
• Avoid overfilling the box, as this can strain hinges and prevent the lid from sealing properly.
• Consider adding silica gel packs inside the box to control internal humidity and prevent mold.
• For maximum protection, store digital backups of critical documents in addition to physical copies.
• Review manufacturer guidelines for warranty coverage and replacement timelines—some fireproof boxes lose certification after 5–10 years.

Investing in a high-quality fire-resistant filing box is only the first step. By understanding its specifications and committing to routine maintenance, you ensure long-term protection of vital information. Whether safeguarding business records, legal contracts, or personal heirlooms, proper care enhances reliability and provides confidence that your documents will survive even the most unexpected events.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fireproof & Waterproof Filing Boxes

Q1: What is the difference between fireproof and waterproof filing boxes?

Fireproof and waterproof filing boxes serve distinct but equally important protective purposes:

• Fireproof Boxes: Engineered to resist extreme heat and flames, these containers are constructed with insulating materials such as fire-resistant gypsum or ceramic fiber. They are tested to withstand temperatures up to 1,700°F for a specified duration (typically 30 minutes to 2 hours), ensuring that paper documents remain below the ignition point (around 450°F).
• Waterproof Boxes: Designed with tightly sealed gaskets and corrosion-resistant materials, these boxes prevent moisture intrusion from floods, leaks, or firefighting efforts. Some models are fully submersible, offering protection even during prolonged water exposure.

Many high-end safes combine both features—providing dual protection against fire and water—making them ideal for safeguarding irreplaceable items like birth certificates, wills, or digital backups.

Q2: Are fire-resistant filing boxes worth it?

Absolutely—fire-resistant filing boxes are a smart investment for both homes and offices, especially in regions susceptible to wildfires, electrical fires, or natural disasters. Consider the following benefits:

• Data Preservation: Critical documents such as insurance policies, property deeds, and medical records can be preserved through a fire event.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your valuables are protected reduces stress during emergencies.
• Insurance Advantages: Some insurers offer premium discounts for storing important documents in certified fireproof containers.
• Cost-Effective: The price of a quality fireproof box is minimal compared to replacing lost legal, financial, or personal records.

Look for boxes certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) with a Class 350 rating—the industry standard for document protection during a fire.

Q3: Can a fireproof document box withstand a house fire?

Yes—when properly rated and used correctly, a fireproof document box can survive a typical house fire. However, its effectiveness depends on several key factors:

• Fire Rating: Most residential fireproof boxes are rated to withstand 1,700°F for 30 to 120 minutes. This aligns with the average duration of a contained house fire before structural collapse.
• Placement: For optimal protection, store the box on a lower shelf (heat rises) and away from direct flame paths, such as near doorways or kitchens.
• Closure: The seal must be fully closed; even a slightly ajar door can compromise insulation and allow heat penetration.
• Contents: Overloading the box or placing non-fire-rated materials inside can reduce its protective capacity.

While no container is indestructible in extreme conditions, UL-listed fireproof boxes significantly increase the odds of document survival in most residential fire scenarios.

Q4: Are fireproof boxes worth it for USB drives and digital media?

Yes—protecting digital storage devices like USB drives, SD cards, and external hard drives in a fireproof box is highly recommended. Here’s why:

• Lower Ignition Threshold: Digital media can be damaged at temperatures as low as 125°F—much lower than paper. Specialized fireproof boxes with internal insulation help maintain safe internal temperatures.
• Water Protection: Fire suppression often involves water, which can ruin electronics. Waterproof fireproof safes offer dual protection.
• Theft Deterrence: Many fireproof boxes include lockable mechanisms, protecting your data from unauthorized access.
• Backup Security: If your primary devices are lost in a fire, a protected backup can save years of photos, financial records, or business data.

For best results, use a fireproof safe specifically rated for digital media (often labeled "media safe" or "integrated circuit safe") which maintains internal temperatures below 125°F during a fire.

Q5: What are the most common materials used in fireproof filing boxes?

Fireproof filing boxes utilize a combination of materials to create effective thermal and moisture barriers. The most common include:

Material	Function	Common Use Cases
Steel (Double-Wall)	Provides structural integrity and reflects heat. Often used in outer and inner shells.	Most fireproof safes and filing cabinets.
Fire-Retardant Gypsum or Concrete Composite	Insulates by absorbing heat and releasing water vapor, slowing temperature rise inside.	Filling between steel walls in high-end models.
Fiberglass	Resists high temperatures and does not conduct heat, ideal for lining interiors.	Used in premium fireproof containers and digital media safes.
Sealed Rubber Gaskets	Creates an airtight and watertight seal when the door closes, preventing smoke and moisture entry.	Door edges of waterproof and fireproof boxes.
Plastic or Coated Interiors	Protects contents from scratches and corrosion; some include humidity control.	Interior lining for document and media storage.

These materials work together to provide comprehensive protection. When shopping, check for independent certifications (like UL 72 or EN 1047-1) to ensure the materials meet tested fire and water resistance standards.