The paper presents a numerical investigation, done with the computer program SAFIR, in order to obtain simpler finite element models for representing the behaviour of the partially protected composite steel concrete slabs in fire situations, considering the membrane action. Appropriate understanding and modelling of the particular behaviour of composite slabs allows a safe approach, but also substantial savings on the thermal insulation that has to be applied on the underlying steel structure. The influence of some critical parameters on the behaviour and fire resistance of composite slabs such as the amount of reinforcing steel, the thickness of the slab and the edge conditions is also highlighted. The results of the numerical analyses are compared with the results of three full scale fire tests on composite slabs that have been performed in recent years.