In everyday Ukrainian usage, the word "укриття" (shelter) refers to any place where people can wait out an air raid alert. In Ukraine's regulatory framework, however, there are several distinct categories of protective structures, each with its own requirements. Here we explain what a PRU (anti-radiation shelter) is, who needs one, and how it can be built faster than a conventional structure.
What is a PRU
Ukraine's Civil Protection Code defines two types of protective structures: bomb shelters (сховища) and anti-radiation shelters (протирадіаційні укриття, or PRU). A PRU is a structure that protects occupants from ionizing radiation in the event of radioactive contamination, allowing a calculated number of people to remain inside continuously for a defined period.
PRUs are designed and built in accordance with DBN В.2.2-5:2023 "Civil Defence Protective Structures" — the national building code governing civil protection facilities. Once completed, a structure is registered in the state register of civil defence protective structures, which is maintained under the oversight of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS).
Who needs a PRU
Civil defence protective structures, including PRUs, are built to shelter staff at institutions and enterprises, schoolchildren, and children in kindergartens. The most common inquiries about PRUs come from:
- local communities and government bodies — for schools, kindergartens, hospitals, and administrative service centers (ЦНАП);
- businesses — to protect personnel;
- infrastructure facility operators.
The exact type of structure required for a given site is determined by applicable requirements and confirmed with local DSNS authorities. Hobbit House engineers can help select the right model based on occupancy needs and site conditions — an important consideration for donors and NGOs funding such projects, since the correct classification affects both compliance and procurement (including projects tendered through Prozorro, Ukraine's public procurement system).
PRU, bomb shelter, and mobile shelter: what's the difference
| Bomb shelter | PRU (anti-radiation shelter) | Primary mobile shelter | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | A sealed protective structure | A protective structure against ionizing radiation | A factory-made modular structure for rapid sheltering of people |
| Standard | DBN В.2.2-5:2023 | DBN В.2.2-5:2023 | DSTU 9329:2025 "Primary (Mobile) Shelters" |
| How it is created | Built according to a design project | Built according to a design project; can be assembled from standard modules | Manufactured at a factory and installed on-site |
| Compliance confirmation | Design project and commissioning | Design project and commissioning | Certificate of conformity to DSTU 9329:2025 |
«Fortetsia» modular shelters are certified by the State Certification Center of DSNS Ukraine as primary (mobile) shelters in accordance with DSTU 9329:2025. The «Fortetsia» 2.25 module also holds a certificate of conformity to DSTU 9195 and DBN В.2.2-5:2023 — meaning it can satisfy both mobile-shelter and PRU-related standards.
How to build a PRU from «Fortetsia» modules
A conventional PRU is designed individually and cast in concrete on-site, a process that typically takes months. «Fortetsia» modules are pre-engineered using the LIRA structural design software, so they can be used as ready-made building blocks for a PRU. This approach saves on design costs and time, shortens construction schedules, and reduces the number of workers required on-site — all relevant factors for organizations managing limited budgets and tight deployment timelines.
Example: Hobbit House built a five-person PRU from a «Fortetsia» module in just seven days. A PRU can be built either above ground or below ground — see above-ground PRU and underground PRU in our catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a PRU differ from a bomb shelter?
A bomb shelter is a sealed structure that protects people from the dangerous effects of emergencies and military actions. A PRU primarily protects against ionizing radiation in the event of radioactive contamination. Both are classified as civil defence protective structures and are designed according to DBN В.2.2-5:2023.
How does a PRU differ from a mobile shelter?
A PRU is constructed according to an individual design project in compliance with DBN В.2.2-5:2023. A primary mobile shelter, by contrast, is manufactured at a factory and certified under DSTU 9329:2025 "Primary (Mobile) Shelters"; on-site, it only needs to be installed.
Can a PRU be built from modular units?
Yes. «Fortetsia» modules are engineered using the LIRA design software and are used to build PRUs. Hobbit House completed a five-person PRU from a «Fortetsia» module in seven days.
What standards must a PRU comply with?
DBN В.2.2-5:2023 "Civil Defence Protective Structures." After construction, the structure must be registered in the state register of civil defence protective structures.
Which type of PRU should I choose — above-ground or underground?
An above-ground PRU is faster to build and doesn't require excavation. An underground PRU requires earthworks and waterproofing but takes up less surface space. The choice depends on the site, the number of people to be sheltered, and the facility's specific requirements.
Key takeaways
- A PRU is one of two main categories of civil defence protective structures alongside bomb shelters; it is designed in accordance with DBN В.2.2-5:2023.
- A primary mobile shelter is a separate category: a factory-built structure certified under DSTU 9329:2025.
- Using «Fortetsia» modules, a PRU can be built in weeks instead of months: a five-person PRU was completed in just seven days.
Need a PRU for a school, kindergarten, or business? Contact Hobbit House engineers — we'll help you find the right solution for your facility.