SFRM Special Inspections: SFRM Adherence According to the Code
The International Building Code (IBC), Chapter 17, Section 1705.15.1, specifically lists five physical and visual tests the special inspector must provide according to the code (see narrative box at the bottom of page). Certain conditions must be met to verify that a sprayed fire-resistant material (SFRM) will perform as intended. The verifications include substrate conditions, thickness and density of material, bond strength, and condition of the finished application. IBC Section 704.13 stipulates very important substrate conditions and finished condition requirements. The special inspector must perform all five items listed in Section 1705.15.1 to demonstrate code compliance.
The integrity of an SFRM system depends on the surface conditions of the steel member to which it is applied. The SFRM system must be fully adhered to the surface for proper performance in accordance with design values. Simple elevator movements, building sway, or maintenance activities can dislodge SFRM if it is not properly adhered. Special inspectors should also review and be familiar with IBC Chapter 7, Section 704.13, for requirements related to the substrate surface conditions and other code compliance criteria.
IBC Section 704.13.2 Manufacturer’s Installation Instructions. The application of SFRM shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The instructions shall include, but are not limited to, substrate temperatures and surface conditions and SFRM handling, storage, mixing, conveyance, method of application, curing and ventilation. This IBC section makes the manufacturer’s installation instructions code law, which usually states that a minimum ambient and substrate temperature of 40 F shall be maintained for 24 hours prior to application, during application, and for not fewer than 24 hours after SFRM application. IBC Section 704.13.4 reiterates practically the same type of language.
IBC Section 704.13.3.1 Surface Conditions. Substrates to receive SFRM shall be free of dirt, oil, grease, release agents, loose scale and any other condition that prevents adhesion. The substrates shall be free of primers, paints and encapsulants other than those fire tested by a nationally recognized testing agency. Primed, painted or encapsulated steel shall be allowed, provided that testing has demonstrated that required adhesion is maintained.
IBC Section 1705.15.1. Physical and Visual Tests.
The special inspections and tests shall include the following to demonstrate compliance with the listing and fire-resistance rating:
For more information or further enthusiastic discourse on topics of CODE, please contact Alan Tuck at: [email protected] or 540.344.7939