It’s Fire Rated…but Is It the Right Test?

This month we recognize Fire Prevention Week. This week was originally set aside to remember the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This infamous tragedy destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres1. Over the years, Fire Prevention Week has focused on a range of themes, and this year’s theme is “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years.” For additional information about NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week, please visit firepreventionweek.org.

Continuing the theme of Fire Prevention Week, this article focuses on a particular challenge in fire testing and fire prevention for buildings – choosing the right test for the right product or application. Because there are a broad range of fire tests that yield a wide variety of ratings and test values, it is imperative to understand precisely which test is being required or requested, the test method being used, what the fire ratings mean, and which product or system is applicable. Selecting the wrong test may lead to inaccurate data, non-conformity with local code, or more serious – the selection of building materials that do not afford the desired level of protection.

Click here for a detailed review of the various fire hazard classification test methods.