User note:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides detailed requirements for fire-resistance-rated construction, including structural members, walls, partitions and horizontal assemblies. Other portions of the code describe where certain fire-resistance-rated elements are required. This chapter specifies how these elements are constructed, how openings in walls and partitions are protected and how penetrations of such elements are protected.
The provisions of this chapter shall govern the materials, systems and assemblies used for structural fire resistance and fire-resistance-rated construction separation of adjacent spaces to safeguard against the spread of fire and smoke within a building and the spread of fire to or from buildings.
Fire assemblies that serve multiple purposes in a building shall comply with all of the requirements that are applicable for each of the individual fire assemblies.
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Materials prescribed herein for fire resistance shall conform to the requirements of this chapter.
The fire-resistance rating of building elements, components or assemblies shall be determined in accordance with the test procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263 or in accordance with Section 703.3. The fire-resistance rating of penetrations and fire-resistant joint systems shall be determined in accordance Sections 714 and 715, respectively.
Interior walls and partitions of nonsymmetrical construction shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire-resistance rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with ASTM E119 or UL 263. Where evidence is furnished to show that the wall was tested with the least fire-resistant side exposed to the furnace, subject to acceptance of the building official, the wall need not be subjected to tests from the opposite side (see Section 705.5 for exterior walls).
Combustible aggregates are permitted in gypsum and Portland cement concrete mixtures for fire-resistance-rated construction. Any component material or admixture is permitted in assemblies if the resulting tested assembly meets the fire-resistance test requirements of this code.
Fire-resistance-rated assemblies tested under ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not be considered to be restrained unless evidence satisfactory to the building official is furnished by the registered design professional showing that the construction qualifies for a restrained classification in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263. Restrained construction shall be identified on the construction documents.
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Where materials, systems or devices that have not been tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly are incorporated into the building element, component or assembly, sufficient data shall be made available to the building official to show that the required fire-resistance rating is not reduced.
In determining the fire-resistance rating of exterior bearing walls, compliance with the ASTM E119 or UL 263 criteria for unexposed surface temperature rise and ignition of cotton waste due to passage of flame or gases is required only for a period of time corresponding to the required fire-resistance rating of an exterior nonbearing wall with the same fire separation distance, and in a building of the same group. Where the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this exception exceeds the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263, the fire exposure time period, water pressure and application duration criteria for the hose stream test of ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall be based on the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this section.
The application of any of the methods listed in this section shall be based on the fire exposure and acceptance criteria specified in ASTM E119 or UL 263. The required fire resistance of a building element, component or assembly shall be permitted to be established by any of the following methods or procedures:
- Fire-resistance designs documented in approved sources.
- Prescriptive designs of fire-resistance-rated building elements, components or assemblies as prescribed in Section 721.
- Calculations in accordance with Section 722.
- Engineering analysis based on a comparison of building element, component or assemblies designs having fire-resistance ratings as determined by the test procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263.
- Alternative protection methods as allowed by Section 104.11.
- Fire-resistance designs certified by an approved agency.
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Under the prescriptive fire-resistance requirements of this code, the fire-resistance rating of a building element, component or assembly shall be established without the use of automatic sprinklers or any other fire suppression system being incorporated as part of the assembly tested in accordance with the fire exposure, procedures and acceptance criteria specified in ASTM E119 or UL 263. However, this section shall not prohibit or limit the duties and powers of the building official allowed by Sections 104.10 and 104.11.
The tests indicated in Sections 703.5.1 and 703.5.2 shall serve as criteria for acceptance of building materials as set forth in Sections 602.2, 602.3 and 602.4 in Types I, II, III and IV construction. The term "noncombustible" does not apply to the flame spread characteristics of interior finish or trim materials. A material shall not be classified as a noncombustible building construction material if it is subject to an increase in combustibility or flame spread beyond the limitations herein established through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric conditions.
Materials required to be noncombustible shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E136.
Materials having a structural base of noncombustible material as determined in accordance with Section 703.5.1 with a surfacing not more than 0.125 inch (3.18 mm) thick that has a flame spread index not greater than 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 shall be acceptable as noncombustible materials.
Fire-resistance-rated glazing, when tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 and complying with the requirements of Section 707, shall be permitted. Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall bear a label marked in accordance with Table 716.1(1) issued by an agency and shall be permanently identified on the glazing.
Where there is an accessible concealed floor, floor-ceiling or attic space, fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and smoke partitions or any other wall required to have protected openings or penetrations shall be effectively and permanently identified with signs or stenciling in the concealed space. Such identification shall:
- Be located within 15 feet (4572 mm) of the end of each wall and at intervals not exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) measured horizontally along the wall or partition.
- Include lettering not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in height with a minimum 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) stroke in a contrasting color incorporating the suggested wording, "FIRE AND/OR SMOKE BARRIER—PROTECT ALL OPENINGS," or other wording.
The time, in minutes, contributed to the fire resistance rating by the noncombustible protection of mass timber building elements, components, or assemblies, shall be established through a comparison of assemblies tested using procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL263. The test assemblies shall be identical in construction, loading, and materials, other than the noncombustible protection. The two test assemblies shall be tested to the same criteria of structural failure with the following conditions:
- Test Assembly 1 shall be without protection.
- Test Assembly 2 shall include the representative noncombustible protection. The protection shall be fully defined in terms of configuration details, attachment details, joint sealing details, accessories and all other relevant details.
In buildings of Type IV-A, IV-B and IV-C construction, sealant or adhesive shall be provided to resist the passage of air in the following locations:
- At abutting edges and intersections of mass timber building elements required to be fire-resistance rated.
- At abutting intersections of mass timber building elements and building elements of other materials where both are required to be fire-resistance rated.
Sealants shall meet the requirements of ASTM C920. Adhesives shall meet the requirements of ASTM D3498.
Exception: Sealants or adhesives need not be provided where they are not a required component of a tested fire-resistance-rated assembly.
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The fire-resistance ratings of structural members and assemblies shall comply with this section and the requirements for the type of construction as specified in Table 601. The fire-resistance ratings shall be not less than the ratings required for the fire-resistance-rated assemblies supported by the structural members.
Exception: Fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and horizontal assemblies as provided in Sections 707.5, 708.4, 709.4 and 711.2, respectively.
Where columns are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance rating, the entire column shall be provided individual encasement protection by protecting it on all sides for the full column height, including connections to other structural members, with materials having the required fire-resistance rating. Where the column extends through a ceiling, the encasement protection shall be continuous from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below through the ceiling space to the top of the column.
Exception: Columns that meet the limitations of Section 704.4.1.
Members of the primary structural frame other than columns that are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance rating and support more than two floors or one floor and roof, or support a load-bearing wall or a nonload-bearing wall more than two stories high, shall be provided individual encasement protection by protecting them on all sides for the full length, including connections to other structural members, with materials having the required fire-resistance rating.
Exception: Individual encasement protection on all sides shall be permitted on all exposed sides provided that the extent of protection is in accordance with the required fire-resistance rating, as determined in Section 703.
Secondary members that are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance rating shall be protected by individual encasement protection.
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Studs, columns and boundary elements that are integral elements in walls of light-frame construction and are located entirely between the top and bottom plates or tracks shall be permitted to have required fire-resistance ratings provided by the membrane protection provided for the wall.
Horizontal assemblies are permitted to be protected with a membrane or ceiling where the membrane or ceiling provides the required fire-resistance rating and is installed in accordance with Section 711.
The required thickness and construction of fire-resistance-rated assemblies enclosing trusses shall be based on the results of full-scale tests or combinations of tests on truss components or on approved calculations based on such tests that satisfactorily demonstrate that the assembly has the required fire resistance.
The edges of lugs, brackets, rivets and bolt heads attached to structural members shall be permitted to extend to within 1 inch (25 mm) of the surface of the fire protection.
Pipes, wires, conduits, ducts or other service facilities shall not be embedded in the required fire protective covering of a structural member that is required to be individually encased.
Where the fire protective covering of a structural member is subject to impact damage from moving vehicles, the handling of merchandise or other activity, the fire protective covering shall be protected by corner guards or by a substantial jacket of metal or other noncombustible material to a height adequate to provide full protection, but not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the finished floor.
Exception: Corner protection is not required on concrete columns in parking garages.
Load-bearing structural members located within the exterior walls or on the outside of a building or structure shall be provided with the highest fire-resistance rating as determined in accordance with the following:
- As required by Table 601 for the type of building element based on the type of construction of the building.
- As required by Table 601 for exterior bearing walls based on the type of construction.
- As required by Table 602 for exterior walls based on the fire separation distance.
Fire protection is not required at the bottom flange of lintels, shelf angles and plates, spanning not more than 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) whether part of the primary structural frame or not, and from the bottom flange of lintels, shelf angles and plates not part of the structural frame, regardless of span.
Fire-resistance ratings for the isolation system shall meet the fire-resistance rating required for the columns, walls or other structural elements in which the isolation system is installed in accordance with Table 601. Isolation systems required to have a fire-resistance rating shall be protected with approved materials or construction assemblies designed to provide the same degree of fire resistance as the structural element in which the system is installed when tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 (see Section 703.2).
Such isolation system protection applied to isolator units shall be capable of retarding the transfer of heat to the isolator unit in such a manner that the required gravity load-carrying capacity of the isolator unit will not be impaired after exposure to the standard time-temperature curve fire test prescribed in ASTM E119 or UL 263 for a duration not less than that required for the fire-resistance rating of the structure element in which the system is installed.
Such isolation system protection applied to isolator units shall be suitably designed and securely installed so as not to dislodge, loosen, sustain damage or otherwise impair its ability to accommodate the seismic movements for which the isolator unit is designed and to maintain its integrity for the purpose of providing the required fire-resistance protection.
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The application of SFRM shall be consistent with the fire-resistance rating and the listing, including, but not limited to, minimum thickness and dry density of the applied SFRM, method of application, substrate surface conditions and the use of bonding adhesives, sealants, reinforcing or other materials.
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.
The SFRM shall be applied to a substrate in compliance with Sections 704.13.3.1 and 704.13.3.2.
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 and listed by a nationally recognized testing agency. Primed, painted or encapsulated steel shall be allowed, provided that testing has demonstrated that required adhesion is maintained.
Where the SFRM is to be applied over primers, paints or encapsulants other than those specified in the listing, the material shall be field tested in accordance with ASTM E736. Where testing of the SFRM with primers, paints or encapsulants demonstrates that required adhesion is maintained, SFRM shall be permitted to be applied to primed, painted or encapsulated wide flange steel shapes in accordance with the following conditions:
- The beam flange width does not exceed 12 inches (305 mm); or
- The column flange width does not exceed 16 inches (400 mm); or
- The beam or column web depth does not exceed 16 inches (400 mm).
- The average and minimum bond strength values shall be determined based on not fewer than five bond tests conducted in accordance with ASTM E736. Bond tests conducted in accordance with ASTM E736 shall indicate an average bond strength of not less than 80 percent and an individual bond strength of not less than 50 percent, when compared to the bond strength of the SFRM as applied to clean uncoated 1/8-inch-thick (3.2 mm) steel plate.
A minimum ambient and substrate temperature of 40°F (4.44°C) shall be maintained during and for not fewer than 24 hours after the application of the SFRM, unless the manufacturer's instructions allow otherwise.
The finished condition of SFRM applied to structural members or assemblies shall not, upon complete drying or curing, exhibit cracks, voids, spalls, delamination or any exposure of the substrate. Surface irregularities of SFRM shall be deemed acceptable.
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Exterior walls shall comply with this section.
Cornices, eave overhangs, exterior balconies and similar projections extending beyond the exterior wall shall conform to the requirements of this section and Section 1405. Exterior egress balconies and exterior exit stairways and ramps shall comply with Sections 1021 and 1027, respectively. Projections shall not extend any closer to the line used to determine the fire separation distance than shown in Table 705.2.
Exception: Buildings on the same lot and considered as portions of one building in accordance with Section 705.3 are not required to comply with this section for projections between the buildings.
| FIRE SEPARATION DISTANCE-FSD (feet) |
MINIMUM DISTANCE FROM LINE USED TO DETERMINE FSD |
| 0 to less than 2 | Projections not permitted |
| 2 to less than 3 | 24 inches |
| 3 to less than 5 | 24 inches plus 8 inches for every foot of FSD beyond 3 feet or fraction thereof |
| 5 or greater | 40 inches |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
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Combustible projections extending to within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the line used to determine the fire separation distance shall be of not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction, heavy timber construction, complying with Section 2304.11, fire-retardant-treated wood or as permitted by Section 705.2.3.1.
Exception: Type VB construction shall be allowed for combustible projections in Group R-3 and U occupancies with a fire separation distance greater than or equal to 5 feet (1524 mm).
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Balconies and similar projections of combustible construction other than fire-retardant-treated wood shall be fire-resistance rated where required by Table 601 for floor construction or shall be of heavy timber construction in accordance with Section 2304.11. The aggregate length of the projections shall not exceed 50 percent of the building's perimeter on each floor.
Exceptions:
- On buildings of Types I and II construction, three stories or less above grade plane, fire-retardant-treated wood shall be permitted for balconies, porches, decks and exterior stairways not used as required exits.
- Untreated wood and plastic composites that comply with ASTM D7032 and Section 2612 are permitted for pickets, rails and similar guard components that are limited to 42 inches (1067 mm) in height.
- Balconies and similar projections on buildings of Types III, IV-HT and V construction shall be permitted to be of Type V construction and shall not be required to have a fire-resistance rating where sprinkler protection is extended to these areas.
- Where sprinkler protection is extended to the balcony areas, the aggregate length of the balcony on each floor shall not be limited.
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Bay and oriel windows constructed of combustible materials shall conform to the type of construction required for the building to which they are attached.
Exception: Fire-retardant-treated wood shall be permitted on buildings three stories or less above grade plane of Type I, II, III or IV construction.
For the purposes of determining the required wall and opening protection, projections and roof-covering requirements, buildings on the same lot shall be assumed to have an imaginary line between them.
Where a new building is to be erected on the same lot as an existing building, the location of the assumed imaginary line with relation to the existing building shall be such that the exterior wall and opening protection of the existing building meet the criteria as set forth in Sections 705.5 and 705.8.
Exceptions:
- Two or more buildings on the same lot shall be either regulated as separate buildings or shall be considered as portions of one building if the aggregate area of such buildings is within the limits specified in Chapter 5 for a single building. Where the buildings contain different occupancy groups or are of different types of construction, the area shall be that allowed for the most restrictive occupancy or construction.
- Where an S-2 parking garage of Construction Type I or IIA is erected on the same lot as a Group R-2 building, and there is no fire separation distance between these buildings, then the adjoining exterior walls between the buildings are permitted to have occupant use openings in accordance with Section 706.8. However, opening protectives in such openings shall only be required in the exterior wall of the S-2 parking garage, not in the exterior wall openings in the R-2 building, and these opening protectives in the exterior wall of the S-2 parking garage shall be not less than 11/2-hour fire protection rating.
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Exterior walls shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
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Exterior walls shall be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Tables 601 and 602 and this section. The required fire-resistance rating of exterior walls with a fire separation distance of greater than 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be rated for exposure to fire from the inside. The required fire-resistance rating of exterior walls with a fire separation distance of less than or equal to 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be rated for exposure to fire from both sides.
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Exterior walls shall extend to the height required by Section 705.11. Interior structural elements that brace the exterior wall but that are not located within the plane of the exterior wall shall have the minimum fire-resistance rating required in Table 601 for that structural element. Structural elements that brace the exterior wall but are located outside of the exterior wall or within the plane of the exterior wall shall have the minimum fire-resistance rating required in Tables 601 and 602 for the exterior wall.
Where protected openings are not limited by Section 705.8, the limitation on the rise of temperature on the unexposed surface of exterior walls as required by ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not apply. Where protected openings are limited by Section 705.8, the limitation on the rise of temperature on the unexposed surface of exterior walls as required by ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not apply provided that a correction is made for radiation from the unexposed exterior wall surface in accordance with the following formula:
(Equation 7-1)where:
| Ae | = | Equivalent area of protected openings. |
| A | = | Actual area of protected openings. |
| Af | = | Area of exterior wall surface in the story under consideration exclusive of openings, on which the temperature limitations of ASTM E119 or UL 263 for walls are exceeded. |
| Feo | = | An "equivalent opening factor" derived from Figure 705.7 based on the average temperature of the unexposed wall surface and the fire-resistance rating of the wall. |
For SI: °C = [(°F) - 32] / 1.8.
EQUIVALENT OPENING FACTOR
Openings in exterior walls shall comply with Sections 705.8.1 through 705.8.6.
| FIRE SEPARATION DISTANCE (feet) | DEGREE OF OPENING PROTECTION | ALLOWABLE AREAa |
| 0 to less than 3b, c, k | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | Not Permittedk |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | Not Permittedk | |
| Protected (P) | Not Permittedk | |
| 3 to less than 5d, e | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | Not Permitted |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | 15% | |
| Protected (P) | 15% | |
| 5 to less than 10e, f, j | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | 10%h |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | 25% | |
| Protected (P) | 25% | |
| 10 to less than 15e, f, g, j | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | 15%h |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | 45% | |
| Protected (P) | 45% | |
| 15 to less than 20f, g, j | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | 25% |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | 75% | |
| Protected (P) | 75% | |
| 20 to less than 25f, g, j | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | 45% |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | No Limit | |
| Protected (P) | No Limit | |
| 25 to less than 30f, g, j | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | 70% |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | No Limit | |
| Protected (P) | No Limit | |
| 30 or greater | Unprotected, Nonsprinklered (UP, NS) | No Limit |
| Unprotected, Sprinklered (UP, S)i | No Limit | |
| Protected (P) | No Limit |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
UP, NS = Unprotected openings in buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
UP, S = Unprotected openings in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
P = Openings protected with an opening protective assembly in accordance with Section 705.8.2.
UP, NS = Unprotected openings in buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
UP, S = Unprotected openings in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
P = Openings protected with an opening protective assembly in accordance with Section 705.8.2.
- Values indicated are the percentage of the area of the exterior wall, per story.
- For the requirements for fire walls of buildings with differing heights, see Section 706.6.1.
- For openings in a fire wall for buildings on the same lot, see Section 706.8.
- The maximum percentage of unprotected and protected openings shall be 25 percent for Group R-3 occupancies.
- Unprotected openings shall not be permitted for openings with a fire separation distance of less than 15 feet for Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies.
- The area of unprotected and protected openings shall not be limited for Group R-3 occupancies, with a fire separation distance of 5 feet or greater.
- The area of openings in an open parking structure with a fire separation distance of 10 feet or greater shall not be limited.
- Includes buildings accessory to Group R-3.
- Not applicable to Group H-1, H-2 and H-3 occupancies.
- The area of openings in a building containing only a Group U occupancy private garage or carport with a fire separation distance of 5 feet or greater shall not be limited.
- For openings between S-2 parking garage and Group R-2 building, see Section 705.3, Exception 2.
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The maximum area of unprotected and protected openings permitted in an exterior wall in any story of a building shall not exceed the percentages specified in Table 705.8 based on the fire separation distance of each individual story.
Exceptions:
- In other than Group H occupancies, unlimited unprotected openings are permitted in the first story above grade plane where the wall faces one of the following:
- A street and has a fire separation distance of more than 15 feet (4572 mm).
- An unoccupied space. The unoccupied space shall be on the same lot or dedicated for public use, shall be not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) in width and shall have access from a street by a posted fire lane in accordance with the International Fire Code.
- Buildings whose exterior bearing walls, exterior nonbearing walls and exterior primary structural frame are not required to be fire-resistance rated shall be permitted to have unlimited unprotected openings.
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Where openings are required to be protected, opening protectives shall comply with Section 716.
Exception: Opening protectives are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the exterior openings are protected by a water curtain using automatic sprinklers approved for that use.
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Where both unprotected and protected openings are located in the exterior wall in any story of a building, the total area of openings shall be determined in accordance with the following:
(Equation 7-2)Openings in exterior walls in adjacent stories shall be separated vertically to protect against fire spread on the exterior of the buildings where the openings are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of each other horizontally and the opening in the lower story is not a protected opening with a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour. Such openings shall be separated vertically not less than 3 feet (914 mm) by spandrel girders, exterior walls or other similar assemblies that have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour, rated for exposure to fire from both sides, or by flame barriers that extend horizontally not less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond the exterior wall. Flame barriers shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. The unexposed surface temperature limitations specified in ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not apply to the flame barriers unless otherwise required by the provisions of this code.
Exceptions:
- This section shall not apply to buildings that are three stories or less above grade plane.
- This section shall not apply to buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
- Open parking garages.
For buildings on the same lot, opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour shall be provided in every opening that is less than 15 feet (4572 mm) vertically above the roof of an adjacent building or structure based on assuming an imaginary line between them. The opening protectives are required where the fire separation distances from the imaginary line to each building or structure are less than 15 feet (4572 mm).
Exceptions:
- Opening protectives are not required where the roof assembly of the adjacent building or structure has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour for a minimum distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) from the exterior wall facing the imaginary line and the entire length and span of the supporting elements for the fire-resistance-rated roof assembly has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.
- Buildings on the same lot and considered as portions of one building in accordance with Section 705.3 are not required to comply with Section 705.8.6.
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Joints made in or between exterior walls required by this section to have a fire-resistance rating shall comply with Section 715.
Exception: Joints in exterior walls that are permitted to have unprotected openings.
The void created at the intersection of a floor/ceiling assembly and an exterior curtain wall assembly shall be protected in accordance with Section 715.4.
Penetrations by air ducts and air transfer openings in fire-resistance-rated exterior walls required to have protected openings shall comply with Section 717.
Exception: Foundation vents installed in accordance with this code are permitted.
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Parapets shall be provided on exterior walls of buildings.
Exceptions:
A parapet need not be provided on an exterior wall where any of the following conditions exist:
- The wall is not required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Table 602 because of fire separation distance.
- The building has an area of not more than 1,000 square feet (93 m2) on any floor.
- Walls that terminate at roofs of not less than 2-hour fire-resistance-rated construction or where the roof, including the deck or slab and supporting construction, is constructed entirely of noncombustible materials.
- One-hour fire-resistance-rated exterior walls that terminate at the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab, provided that:
- Where the roof/ceiling framing elements are parallel to the walls, such framing and elements supporting such framing shall not be of less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a width of 4 feet (1220 mm) for Groups R and U and 10 feet (3048 mm) for other occupancies, measured from the interior side of the wall.
- Where roof/ceiling framing elements are not parallel to the wall, the entire span of such framing and elements supporting such framing shall not be of less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
- Openings in the roof shall not be located within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the 1-hour fire-resistance-rated exterior wall for Groups R and U and 10 feet (3048 mm) for other occupancies, measured from the interior side of the wall.
- The entire building shall be provided with not less than a Class B roof covering.
- In Groups R-2 and R-3 where the entire building is provided with a Class C roof covering, the exterior wall shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of the roof sheathing or deck in Types III, IV and V construction, provided that one or both of the following criteria is met:
- The roof sheathing or deck is constructed of approved noncombustible materials or of fire-retardant-treated wood for a distance of 4 feet (1220 mm).
- The roof is protected with 0.625-inch (16 mm) Type X gypsum board directly beneath the underside of the roof sheathing or deck, supported by not less than nominal 2-inch (51 mm) ledgers attached to the sides of the roof framing members for a minimum distance of 4 feet (1220 mm).
- Where the wall is permitted to have not less than 25 percent of the exterior wall areas containing unprotected openings based on fire separation distance as determined in accordance with Section 705.8.
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Parapets shall have the same fire-resistance rating as that required for the supporting wall, and on any side adjacent to a roof surface, shall have noncombustible faces for the uppermost 18 inches (457 mm), including counterflashing and coping materials. The height of the parapet shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the point where the roof surface and the wall intersect. Where the roof slopes toward a parapet at a slope greater than two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (16.7-percent slope), the parapet shall extend to the same height as any portion of the roof within a fire separation distance where protection of wall openings is required, but the height shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm).
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Fire walls shall be constructed in accordance with Sections 706.2 through 706.11. The extent and location of such fire walls shall provide a complete separation. Where a fire wall separates occupancies that are required to be separated by a fire barrier wall, the most restrictive requirements of each separation shall apply.
Any wall located on a lot line between adjacent buildings, which is used or adapted for joint service between the two buildings, shall be constructed as a fire wall in accordance with Section 706. Party walls shall be constructed without openings and shall create separate buildings.
Exceptions:
- Openings in a party wall separating an anchor building and a mall shall be in accordance with Section 402.4.2.2.1.
- Fire walls are not required on lot lines dividing a building for ownership purposes where the aggregate height and area of the portions of the building located on both sides of the lot line do not exceed the maximum height and area requirements of this code. For the code official's review and approval, he or she shall be provided with copies of dedicated access easements and contractual agreements that permit the owners of portions of the building located on either side of the lot line access to the other side for purposes of maintaining fire and life safety systems necessary for the operation of the building.
Fire walls shall be designed and constructed to allow collapse of construction on either side without collapse of the wall under fire conditions and loading per Section 1607.15.2. Fire walls designed and constructed in accordance with NFPA 221 shall be deemed to comply with this section.
Exception: In Seismic Design Categories D through F, where double fire walls are used in accordance with NFPA 221, floor and roof sheathing not exceeding 3/4 inch (19.05 mm) thickness shall be permitted to be continuous through the wall assemblies of light frame construction.
(Effective January 1, 2020)
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Fire walls shall be of any approved noncombustible materials.
Fire walls shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required by Table 706.4.
| GROUP | FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours) |
| A, B, E, H-4, I, R-1, R-2, U | 3a |
| F-1, H-3b, H-5, M, S-1 | 3 |
| H-1, H-2 | 4b |
| F-2, S-2, R-3, R-4 | 2 |
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Fire walls shall be continuous from exterior wall to exterior wall and shall extend not less than 18 inches (457 mm) beyond the exterior surface of exterior walls.
Exceptions:
- Fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the interior surface of combustible exterior sheathing or siding provided that the exterior wall has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour for a horizontal distance of not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the fire wall. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
- Fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the interior surface of noncombustible exterior sheathing, exterior siding or other noncombustible exterior finishes provided that the sheathing, siding or other exterior noncombustible finish extends a horizontal distance of not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the fire wall.
- Fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the interior surface of noncombustible exterior sheathing where the building on each side of the fire wall is protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
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Where the fire wall intersects exterior walls, the fire-resistance rating and opening protection of the exterior walls shall comply with one of the following:
- The exterior walls on both sides of the fire wall shall have a 1-hour fire-resistance rating with 3/4-hour protection where opening protection is required by Section 705.8. The fire-resistance rating of the exterior wall shall extend not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) on each side of the intersection of the fire wall to exterior wall. Exterior wall intersections at fire walls that form an angle equal to or greater than 180 degrees (3.14 rad) do not need exterior wall protection.
- Buildings or spaces on both sides of the intersecting fire wall shall assume to have an imaginary lot line at the fire wall and extending beyond the exterior of the fire wall. The location of the assumed line in relation to the exterior walls and the fire wall shall be such that the exterior wall and opening protection meet the requirements set forth in Sections 705.5 and 705.8. Such protection is not required for exterior walls terminating at fire walls that form an angle equal to or greater than 180 degrees (3.14 rad).
Fire walls shall extend to the outer edge of horizontal projecting elements such as balconies, roof overhangs, canopies, marquees and similar projections that are within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall.
Exceptions:
- Horizontal projecting elements without concealed spaces, provided that the exterior wall behind and below the projecting element has not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a distance not less than the depth of the projecting element on both sides of the fire wall. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
- Noncombustible horizontal projecting elements with concealed spaces, provided that a minimum 1-hour fire-resistance-rated wall extends through the concealed space. The projecting element shall be separated from the building by not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a distance on each side of the fire wall equal to the depth of the projecting element. The wall is not required to extend under the projecting element where the building exterior wall is not less than 1-hour fire-resistance rated for a distance on each side of the fire wall equal to the depth of the projecting element. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
- For combustible horizontal projecting elements with concealed spaces, the fire wall need only extend through the concealed space to the outer edges of the projecting elements. The exterior wall behind and below the projecting element shall be of not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a distance not less than the depth of the projecting elements on both sides of the fire wall. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
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Fire walls shall extend from the foundation to a termination point not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above both adjacent roofs.
Exceptions:
- Stepped buildings in accordance with Section 706.6.1.
- Two-hour fire-resistance-rated walls shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab, provided that:
- The lower roof assembly within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the wall has not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance rating and the entire length and span of supporting elements for the rated roof assembly has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.
- Openings in the roof shall not be located within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall.
- Each building shall be provided with not less than a Class B roof covering.
- Walls shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of noncombustible roof sheathing, deck or slabs where both buildings are provided with not less than a Class B roof covering. Openings in the roof shall not be located within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall.
- In buildings of Types III, IV and V construction, walls shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of combustible roof sheathing or decks, provided that all of the following requirements are met:
- Roof openings are not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) from the fire wall.
- The roof is covered with a minimum Class B roof covering.
- The roof sheathing or deck is constructed of fire-retardant-treated wood for a distance of 4 feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the wall or the roof is protected with 5/8-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board directly beneath the underside of the roof sheathing or deck, supported by not less than 2-inch (51 mm) nominal ledgers attached to the sides of the roof framing members for a distance of not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the fire wall.
- In buildings designed in accordance with Section 510.2, fire walls located above the 3-hour horizontal assembly required by Section 510.2, Item 1 shall be permitted to extend from the top of this horizontal assembly.
- Buildings with sloped roofs in accordance with Section 706.6.2.
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Where a fire wall serves as an exterior wall for a building and separates buildings having different roof levels, such wall shall terminate at a point not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof level, provided the exterior wall for a height of 15 feet (4572 mm) above the lower roof is not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction from both sides with openings protected by fire assemblies having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
Exception: Where the fire wall terminates at the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab of the lower roof, provided that:
- The lower roof assembly within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the wall has not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance rating and the entire length and span of supporting elements for the rated roof assembly has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.
- Openings in the lower roof shall not be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the fire wall.
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Where a fire wall serves as an interior wall for a building, and the roof on one side or both sides of the fire wall slopes toward the fire wall at a slope greater than two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12), the fire wall shall extend to a height equal to the height of the roof located 4 feet (1219 mm) from the fire wall plus 30 inches (762 mm). The extension of the fire wall shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm).
Adjacent combustible members entering into a concrete or masonry fire wall from opposite sides shall not have less than a 4-inch (102 mm) distance between embedded ends. Where combustible members frame into hollow walls or walls of hollow units, hollow spaces shall be solidly filled for the full thickness of the wall and for a distance not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above, below and between the structural members, with noncombustible materials approved for fireblocking.
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Each opening through a fire wall shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 and shall not exceed 156 square feet (15 m2). The aggregate width of openings at any floor level shall not exceed 25 percent of the length of the wall.
Exceptions:
- Openings are not permitted in party walls constructed in accordance with Section 706.1.1.
- Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (15 m2) where both buildings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
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Penetrations of fire walls shall comply with Section 714.
Ducts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate fire walls.
Exception: Penetrations by ducts and air transfer openings of fire walls that are not on a lot line shall be allowed provided that the penetrations comply with Section 717. The size and aggregate width of all openings shall not exceed the limitations of Section 706.8.
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Fire barriers installed as required elsewhere in this code or the International Fire Code shall comply with this section.
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Fire barriers shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
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The fire-resistance rating of fire barriers shall comply with this section.
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The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from a shaft shall comply with Section 713.4.
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The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with Section 1023.1.
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The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit access stairway or ramp shall comply with Section 713.4.
The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit passageway shall comply with Section 1024.3.
The fire-resistance rating of the separation between building areas connected by a horizontal exit shall comply with Section 1026.1.
The fire barrier separating incidental uses from other spaces in the building shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 509.
Fire barriers separating control areas shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required in Section 414.2.4.
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Where the provisions of Section 508.4 are applicable, the fire barrier separating mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 508.4 based on the occupancies being separated.
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The fire barriers, fire walls or horizontal assemblies, or combination thereof, separating a single occupancy into different fire areas shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 707.3.10. The fire barriers, fire walls or horizontal assemblies, or combination thereof, separating fire areas of mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than the highest value indicated in Table 707.3.10 for the occupancies under consideration.
| OCCUPANCY GROUP | FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours) |
| H-1, H-2 | 4 |
| F-1, H-3, S-1 | 3 |
| A, B, E, F-2, H-4, H-5, I, M, R, S-2 | 2 |
| U | 1 |
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Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required fire-resistance-rated shaft or stairway or ramp enclosure, or separation, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls and the fire-resistance-rated enclosure or separation requirements shall not apply.
Exception: Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramp.
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Fire barriers shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above and shall be securely attached thereto. Such fire barriers shall be continuous through concealed space, such as the space above a suspended ceiling. Joints and voids at intersections shall comply with Sections 707.8 and 707.9
Exceptions:
- Shaft enclosures shall be permitted to terminate at a top enclosure complying with Section 713.12.
- Interior exit stairway and ramp enclosures required by Section 1023 and exit access stairway and ramp enclosures required by Section 1019 shall be permitted to terminate at a top enclosure complying with Section 713.12.
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The supporting construction for a fire barrier shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier supported. Hollow vertical spaces within a fire barrier shall be fireblocked in accordance with Section 718.2 at every floor level.
Exceptions:
- The maximum required fire-resistance rating for assemblies supporting fire barriers separating tank storage as provided for in Section 415.9.1.2 shall be 2 hours, but not less than required by Table 601 for the building construction type.
- Supporting construction for 1-hour fire barriers required by Table 509 in buildings of Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction is not required to be fire-resistance rated unless required by other sections of this code.
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Openings in a fire barrier shall be protected in accordance with Section 716. Openings shall be limited to a maximum aggregate width of 25 percent of the length of the wall, and the maximum area of any single opening shall not exceed 156 square feet (15 m2). Openings in enclosures for exit access stairways and ramps, interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways shall also comply with Sections 1019, 1023.4 and 1024.5, respectively.
Exceptions:
- Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (15 m2) where adjoining floor areas are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (15 m2) or an aggregate width of 25 percent of the length of the wall where the opening protective is a fire door serving enclosures for exit access stairways and ramps, and interior exit stairways and ramps.
- Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (15 m2) or an aggregate width of 25 percent of the length of the wall where the opening protective has been tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 and has a minimum fire-resistance rating not less than the fire-resistance rating of the wall.
- Fire window assemblies permitted in atrium separation walls shall not be limited to a maximum aggregate width of 25 percent of the length of the wall.
- Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (15 m2) or an aggregate width of 25 percent of the length of the wall where the opening protective is a fire door assembly in a fire barrier separating an enclosure for exit access stairways and ramps, and interior exit stairways and ramps from an exit passageway in accordance with Section 1023.3.1.
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Penetrations of fire barriers shall comply with Section 714.
Penetrations into enclosures for exit access stairways and ramps, interior exit stairways and ramps, and exit passageways shall be allowed only where permitted by Sections 1019, 1023.5 and 1024.6, respectively.
Joints made in or between fire barriers, and joints made at the intersection of fire barriers with underside of a fire-resistance-rated floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above, and the exterior vertical wall intersection shall comply with Section 715.
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The voids created at the intersection of a fire barrier and a nonfire-resistance-rated roof assembly or a nonfire-resistance-rated exterior wall assembly shall be filled. An approved material or system shall be used to fill the void, and shall be securely installed in or on the intersection for its entire length so as not to dislodge, loosen or otherwise impair its ability to accommodate expected building movements and to retard the passage of fire and hot gases.
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Penetrations in a fire barrier by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.
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The following wall assemblies shall comply with this section.
- Separation walls as required by Section 420.2 for Group I-1 and Group R occupancies.
- Walls separating tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings as required by Section 402.4.2.1.
- Corridor walls as required by Section 1020.1.
- Enclosed elevator lobby separation as required by Section 3006.2.
- Egress balconies as required by Section 1021.2
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The walls shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
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Fire partitions shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.
Exceptions:
- Corridor walls permitted to have a 1/2-hour fire-resistance rating by Table 1020.1.
- Dwelling unit and sleeping unit separations in buildings of Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction shall have fire-resistance ratings of not less than 1/2 hour in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
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Fire partitions shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below and be securely attached to one of the following:
- The underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above.
- The underside of a floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly having a fire-resistance rating that is not less than the fire-resistance rating of the fire partition.
Exceptions:
- Fire partitions shall not be required to extend into a crawl space below where the floor above the crawl space has a minimum 1-hour fire-resistance rating.
- Fire partitions serving as a corridor wall shall not be required to extend above the lower membrane of a corridor ceiling provided that the corridor ceiling membrane is equivalent to corridor wall membrane, and either of the following conditions is met:
- The room-side membrane of the corridor wall extends to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab of a fire-resistance-rated floor or roof above.
- The building is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, including automatic sprinklers installed in the space between the top of the fire partition and underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above.
- Fire partitions serving as a corridor wall shall be permitted to terminate at the upper membrane of the corridor ceiling assembly where the corridor ceiling is constructed as required for the corridor wall.
- Fire partitions separating tenant spaces in a covered or open mall building complying with Section 402.4.2.1 shall not be required to extend above the underside of a ceiling. Such ceiling shall not be required to be part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly, and the attic or space above the ceiling at tenant separation walls shall not be required to be subdivided by fire partitions.
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The supporting construction for a fire partition shall have a fire-resistance rating that is equal to or greater than the required fire-resistance rating of the supported fire partition.
Exception: In buildings of Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction, the supporting construction requirement shall not apply to fire partitions separating tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings, fire partitions separating dwelling units, fire partitions separating sleeping units and fire partitions serving as corridor walls.
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In combustible construction where fire partitions do not extend to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above, the space above and along the line of the fire partition shall be provided with one of the following:
- Fireblocking up to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above using materials complying with Section 718.2.1.
- Draftstopping up to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above using materials complying with Section 718.3.1 for floors or Section 718.4.1 for attics.
Exceptions:
- Buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, or in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 provided that protection is provided in the space between the top of the fire partition and underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above as required for systems complying with Section 903.3.1.1.
- Where corridor walls provide a sleeping unit or dwelling unit separation, draftstopping shall only be required above one of the corridor walls.
- In Group R-2 occupancies with fewer than four dwelling units, fireblocking and draftstopping shall not be required.
- In Group R-2 occupancies up to and including four stories in height in buildings not exceeding 60 feet (18 288 mm) in height above grade plane, the attic space shall be subdivided by draftstops into areas not exceeding 3,000 square feet (279 m2) or above every two dwelling units, whichever is smaller.
- In Group R-3 occupancies with fewer than three dwelling units, fire-blocking and draftstopping shall not be required in floor assemblies.
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Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required fire-resistance-rated separation, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls, and the fire-resistance-rated separation requirements shall not apply.
Exception: Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021.2 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramps.
Openings in a fire partition shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.
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Penetrations of fire partitions shall comply with Section 714.
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Penetrations in a fire partition by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.
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Vertical and horizontal smoke barriers shall comply with this section.
Smoke barriers shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
A 1-hour fire-resistance rating is required for smoke barriers.
Exception: Smoke barriers constructed of minimum 0.10-inch-thick (2.5 mm) steel in Group I-3 buildings.
Smoke barriers shall form an effective membrane continuous from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above, including continuity through concealed spaces, such as those found above suspended ceilings, and interstitial structural and mechanical spaces. The supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of the wall or floor supported in buildings of other than Type IIB, IIIB or VB construction. Smoke barrier walls used to separate smoke compartments shall comply with Section 709.4.1. Smoke-barrier walls used to enclose areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.4 or to enclose elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 405.4.3, 3007.6.2, or 3008.6.2 shall comply with Section 709.4.2.
Exception: Smoke-barrier walls are not required in interstitial spaces where such spaces are designed and constructed with ceilings or exterior walls that provide resistance to the passage of fire and smoke equivalent to that provided by the smoke-barrier walls.
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Smoke-barrier walls used to separate smoke compartments shall form an effective membrane continuous from outside wall to outside wall.
Smoke-barrier walls used to enclose areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.4, or to enclose elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 405.4.3, 3007.6.2, or 3008.6.2, shall form an effective membrane enclosure that terminates at a fire barrier wall having a level of fire protection rating not less than 1 hour, another smoke barrier wall or an outside wall. A smoke and draft control door assembly as specified in Section 716.2.2.1.1 shall not be required at each elevator hoistway door opening or at each exit doorway between an area of refuge and the exit enclosure.
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Openings in a smoke barrier shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.
Exceptions:
- In Group I-1, Condition 2, Group I-2 and ambulatory care facilities, where a pair of opposite-swinging doors are installed across a corridor in accordance with Section 709.5.1, the doors shall not be required to be protected in accordance with Section 716. The doors shall be close fitting within operational tolerances, and shall not have a center mullion or undercuts in excess of 3/4 inch (19.1 mm), louvers or grilles. The doors shall have head and jamb stops, and astragals or rabbets at meeting edges. Where permitted by the door manufacturer's listing, positive-latching devices are not required. Factory-applied or field-applied protective plates are not required to be labeled.
- In Group I-1, Condition 2, Group I-2 and ambulatory care facilities, special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors installed in accordance with Section 1010.1.4.3 and protected in accordance with Section 716.
In Group I-2 and ambulatory care facilities, where doors protecting openings in smoke barriers are installed across a corridor and have hold-open devices, the doors shall be automatic-closing in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6. Such doors shall have a vision panel with fire-protection-rated glazing materials in fire-protection-rated frames, the area of which shall not exceed that tested.
Penetrations of smoke barriers shall comply with Section 714.
Penetrations in a smoke barrier by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.
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Smoke partitions installed as required elsewhere in the code shall comply with this section.
The walls shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
Unless required elsewhere in the code, smoke partitions are not required to have a fire-resistance rating.
Smoke partitions shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above or to the underside of the ceiling above where the ceiling membrane is constructed to limit the transfer of smoke.
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Windows in smoke partitions shall be sealed to resist the free passage of smoke or be automatic-closing upon detection of smoke.
Doors in smoke partitions shall not include louvers.
Where required elsewhere in the code, doors in smoke partitions shall meet the requirements for a smoke and draft control door assembly tested in accordance with UL 1784. The air leakage rate of the door assembly shall not exceed 3.0 cubic feet per minute per square foot [0.015424 m3/(s • m2)] of door opening at 0.10 inch (24.9 Pa) of water for both the ambient temperature test and the elevated temperature exposure test. Installation of smoke doors shall be in accordance with NFPA 105.
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Smoke and draft control doors complying only with UL 1784 shall be permitted to show the letter "S" on the manufacturer's labeling.
Where required elsewhere in the code, doors in smoke partitions shall be self- or automatic-closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6.
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The space around penetrating items shall be filled with an approved material to limit the free passage of smoke.
The space around a duct penetrating a smoke partition shall be filled with an approved material to limit the free passage of smoke. Air transfer openings in smoke partitions shall be provided with a smoke damper complying with Section 717.3.2.2.
Exception: Where the installation of a smoke damper will interfere with the operation of a required smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, approved alternative protection shall be utilized.
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Horizontal assemblies shall comply with Section 711.2. Nonfire-resistance-rated floor and roof assemblies shall comply with Section 711.3.
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Assemblies shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
Assemblies shall be continuous without vertical openings, except as permitted by this section and Section 712.
The supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of the horizontal assembly supported.
Exception: In buildings of Type IIB, IIIB or VB construction, the construction supporting the horizontal assembly is not required to be fire-resistance rated at the following:
- Horizontal assemblies at the separations of incidental uses as specified by Table 509 provided that the required fire-resistance rating does not exceed 1 hour.
- Horizontal assemblies at the separations of dwelling units and sleeping units as required by Section 420.3.
- Horizontal assemblies at smoke barriers constructed in accordance with Section 709.
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The fire-resistance rating of horizontal assemblies shall comply with Sections 711.2.4.1 through 711.2.4.6 but shall be not less than that required by the building type of construction.
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Where the horizontal assembly separates mixed occupancies, the assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required by Section 508.4 based on the occupancies being separated.
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Where the horizontal assembly separates a single occupancy into different fire areas, the assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required by Section 707.3.10.
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Horizontal assemblies serving as dwelling or sleeping unit separations in accordance with Section 420.3 shall be not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
Exception: Horizontal assemblies separating dwelling units and sleeping units shall be not less than 1/2-hour fire-resistance-rated construction in a building of Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Where the horizontal assembly is required to be a smoke barrier, the assembly shall comply with Section 709.
Where the horizontal assembly separates incidental uses from the remainder of the building, the assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required by Section 509.
Where a horizontal assembly is required by other sections of this code, the assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required by that section.
Where the weight of lay-in ceiling panels, used as part of fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies, is not adequate to resist an upward force of 1 pound per square foot (48 Pa), wire or other approved devices shall be installed above the panels to prevent vertical displacement under such upward force.
In 1-hour fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling assemblies, the ceiling membrane is not required to be installed over unusable crawl spaces. In 1-hour fire-resistance-rated roof assemblies, the floor membrane is not required to be installed where unusable attic space occurs above.
Assemblies shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
Assemblies shall be continuous without vertical openings, except as permitted by Section 712.
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Vertical openings contained entirely within a shaft enclosure complying with Section 713 shall be permitted.
Unconcealed vertical openings totally within an individual residential dwelling unit and connecting four stories or less shall be permitted.
Where a building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, vertical openings for escalators shall be permitted where protected in accordance with Section 712.1.3.1 or 712.1.3.2.
Protection by a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13 shall be permitted where the area of the vertical opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected area of the escalator. In other than Groups B and M, this application is limited to openings that do not connect more than four stories.
Protection of the vertical opening by approved shutters at every penetrated floor shall be permitted in accordance with this section. The shutters shall be of noncombustible construction and have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1.5 hours. The shutter shall be so constructed as to close immediately upon the actuation of a smoke detector installed in accordance with Section 907.3.1 and shall completely shut off the well opening. Escalators shall cease operation when the shutter begins to close. The shutter shall operate at a speed of not more than 30 feet per minute (152.4 mm/s) and shall be equipped with a sensitive leading edge to arrest its progress where in contact with any obstacle, and to continue its progress on release therefrom.
Penetrations, concealed and unconcealed, shall be permitted where protected in accordance with Section 714.
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Joints made in or between horizontal assemblies shall comply with Section 715. The void created at the intersection of a floor/ceiling assembly and an exterior curtain wall assembly shall be permitted where protected in accordance with Section 715.4.
Joints in or between floor assemblies without a required fire-resistance rating shall be permitted where they comply with one of the following:
- The joint shall be concealed within the cavity of a wall.
- The joint shall be located above a ceiling.
- The joint shall be sealed, treated or covered with an approved material or system to resist the free passage of flame and the products of combustion.
Exception: Joints meeting one of the exceptions listed in Section 715.1.
Penetrations by ducts and air transfer openings shall be protected in accordance with Section 717. Grease ducts shall be protected in accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
Approved vertical openings for masonry chimneys shall be permitted where the annular space is fireblocked at each floor level in accordance with Section 718.2.5.
In other than Groups I-2 and I-3, a vertical opening that is not used as one of the applications listed in this section shall be permitted if the opening complies with all of the following items:
- Does not connect more than two stories.
- Does not penetrate a horizontal assembly that separates fire areas or smoke barriers that separate smoke compartments.
- Is not concealed within the construction of a wall or a floor/ceiling assembly.
- Is not open to a corridor in Group I and R occupancies.
- Is not open to a corridor on nonsprinklered floors.
- Is separated from floor openings and air transfer openings serving other floors by construction conforming to required shaft enclosures.
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Vertical openings in parking garages for automobile ramps, elevators and duct systems shall comply with Section 712.1.10.1, 712.1.10.2 or 712.1.10.3, as applicable.
Vertical openings between a mezzanine complying with Section 505 and the floor below shall be permitted.
Vertical openings containing exit access stairways or ramps in accordance with Section 1019 shall be permitted.
Vertical openings for floor fire doors and access doors shall be permitted where protected by Section 712.1.13.1 or 712.1.13.2.
Horizontal fire door assemblies used to protect openings in fire-resistance-rated horizontal assemblies shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 288, and shall achieve a fire-resistance rating not less than the assembly being penetrated. Horizontal fire door assemblies shall be labeled by an approved agency. The label shall be permanently affixed and shall specify the manufacturer, the test standard and the fire-resistance rating.
Access doors shall be permitted in ceilings of fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling assemblies, provided that such doors are tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 as horizontal assemblies and labeled by an approved agency for such purpose.
In Group I-3 occupancies, vertical openings shall be permitted in accordance with Section 408.5.
Skylights and other penetrations through a fire-resistance-rated roof deck or slab are permitted to be unprotected, provided that the structural integrity of the fire-resistance-rated roof assembly is maintained. Unprotected skylights shall not be permitted in roof assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 705.8.6. The supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of the horizontal assembly supported.
Vertical openings shall be permitted where allowed by other sections of this code.
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The provisions of this section shall apply to shafts required to protect openings and penetrations through floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling assemblies. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall be enclosed in accordance with Section 1023.
Shaft enclosures shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies in accordance with Section 711, or both.
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The shaft enclosure shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.
Shaft enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours where connecting four stories or more, and not less than 1 hour where connecting less than four stories. The number of stories connected by the shaft enclosure shall include any basements but not any mezzanines. Shaft enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than the floor assembly penetrated, but need not exceed 2 hours. Shaft enclosures shall meet the requirements of Section 703.2.1.
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Shaft enclosures shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both, and shall have continuity in accordance with Section 707.5 for fire barriers or Section 711.2.2 for horizontal assemblies, as applicable.
Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required shaft enclosure, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls and the fire-resistance-rated enclosure requirements shall not apply.
Exception: Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021.2 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramps.
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Openings in a shaft enclosure shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 as required for fire barriers. Doors shall be self- or automatic-closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6.
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Openings other than those necessary for the purpose of the shaft shall not be permitted in shaft enclosures.
Penetrations in a shaft enclosure shall be protected in accordance with Section 714 as required for fire barriers. Structural elements, such as beams or joists, where protected in accordance with Section 714 shall be permitted to penetrate a shaft enclosure.
Penetrations other than those necessary for the purpose of the shaft shall not be permitted in shaft enclosures.
Exception: Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the outside of shaft enclosures. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714.4.2.
Penetrations of a shaft enclosure by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.
Shafts that do not extend to the bottom of the building or structure shall comply with one of the following:
- They shall be enclosed at the lowest level with construction of the same fire-resistance rating as the lowest floor through which the shaft passes, but not less than the rating required for the shaft enclosure.
- They shall terminate in a room having a use related to the purpose of the shaft. The room shall be separated from the remainder of the building by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The fire-resistance rating and opening protectives shall be not less than the protection required for the shaft enclosure.
- They shall be protected by approved fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing at the lowest floor level within the shaft enclosure.
Exceptions:
- The fire-resistance-rated room separation is not required, provided that the only openings in or penetrations of the shaft enclosure to the interior of the building occur at the bottom. The bottom of the shaft shall be closed off around the penetrating items with materials permitted by Section 718.3.1 for draftstopping, or the room shall be provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
- A shaft enclosure containing a waste or linen chute shall not be used for any other purpose and shall discharge in a room protected in accordance with Section 713.13.4.
- The fire-resistance-rated room separation and the protection at the bottom of the shaft are not required provided that there are no combustibles in the shaft and there are no openings or other penetrations through the shaft enclosure to the interior of the building.
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A shaft enclosure that does not extend to the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab of the building shall be enclosed at the top with construction of the same fire-resistance rating as the topmost floor penetrated by the shaft, but not less than the fire-resistance rating required for the shaft enclosure.
Waste and linen chutes shall comply with the provisions of NFPA 82, Chapter 6 and shall meet the requirements of Sections 712 and 713.13.1 through 713.13.6. Incinerator rooms shall meet the provisions of Sections 713.13.4 through 713.13.5.
Exception: Chutes serving and contained within a single dwelling unit.
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A shaft enclosure containing a recycling, or waste or linen chute shall not be used for any other purpose and shall be enclosed in accordance with Section 713.4. A shaft enclosure shall be permitted to contain recycling and waste chutes. Openings into the shaft, from access rooms and discharge rooms, shall be protected in accordance with this section and Section 716. Openings into chutes shall not be located in corridors. Doors into chutes shall be self-closing. Discharge doors shall be self-or automatic-closing upon the actuation of a smoke detector in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6, except that heat-activated closing devices shall be permitted between the shaft and the discharge room.
A shaft enclosure containing a waste, recycling, or linen chute shall be constructed of materials as permitted by the building type of construction.
Access openings for waste or linen chutes shall be located in rooms or compartments enclosed by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Openings into the access rooms shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour. Doors shall be self- or automatic-closing upon the detection of smoke in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6. The room or compartment shall be configured to allow the access door to the room or compartment to close and latch with the access panel to the refuse or laundry chute in any position.
Waste or linen chutes shall discharge into an enclosed room separated by fire barriers with a fire-resistance rating not less than the required fire rating of the shaft enclosure and constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Openings into the discharge room from the remainder of the building shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating equal to the protection required for the shaft enclosure. Doors shall be self- or automatic-closing upon the detection of smoke in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6. Waste chutes shall not terminate in an incinerator room. Waste and linen rooms that are not provided with chutes need only comply with Table 509.
Incinerator rooms shall comply with Table 509.
An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in accordance with Section 903.2.11.2.
Elevator, dumbwaiter and other hoistway enclosures shall be constructed in accordance with Sections 712 and 713, and Chapter 30.
New elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and moving walks shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of ASME A17.1, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators. The designated elevator lobby of the designated floor and the designated alternate floor specified by ASME A17.1 Section 2.27.3 shall be separated from the remainder of the building by 1-hour fire-rated construction. In buildings equipped with automatic sprinkler protection, smoke partitions in accordance with the 'Rules and Regulations of the Safety Fire Commissioner Chapter 120-3-3 Rules and Regulations for the State Minimum Fire Safety Standards' may be used in lieu of 1-hour fire-rated construction. Except health care occupancies, openings in the elevator lobby shall be limited to those required for access to the elevators from exit access corridors only. Elevator lobbies may be used as part of the means of egress from the building.
Exceptions:
- Designated floor elevator lobbies are not required within an atrium.
- Designated floor elevator lobbies are not required where elevators are installed on open exterior walls.
- Designated floor elevator lobbies are not required where elevators are installed in open air parking structures.
- Designated floor elevator lobbies are not required in buildings three stories or less with vertical openings protected in accordance with the applicable occupancy chapter.
- Existing installations acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.
- For existing buildings or existing structures, reference Section 3401.7 (GA Amendments).
The provisions of this section shall govern the materials and methods of construction used to protect through penetrations and membrane penetrations of horizontal assemblies and fire-resistance-rated wall assemblies.
Penetrations of fire-resistance-rated walls by ducts that are not protected with dampers shall comply with Sections 714.3 through 714.4.3. Penetrations of horizontal assemblies not protected with a shaft as permitted by Section 717.6, and not required to be protected with fire dampers by other sections of this code, shall comply with Sections 714.5 through 714.6.2. Ducts and air transfer openings that are protected with dampers shall comply with Section 717.
A listed penetration firestop system shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and the listing criteria.
Where sleeves are used, they shall be securely fastened to the assembly penetrated. The space between the item contained in the sleeve and the sleeve itself and any space between the sleeve and the assembly penetrated shall be protected in accordance with this section. Insulation and coverings on or in the penetrating item shall not penetrate the assembly unless the specific material used has been tested as part of the assembly in accordance with this section.
Penetrations into or through fire walls, fire barriers, smoke barrier walls and fire partitions shall comply with Sections 714.4.1 through 714.4.3. Penetrations in smoke barrier walls shall also comply with Section 714.5.4.
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Through penetrations of fire-resistance-rated walls shall comply with Section 714.4.1.1 or 714.4.1.2.
Exception: Where the penetrating items are steel, ferrous or copper pipes, tubes or conduits, the annular space between the penetrating item and the fire-resistance-rated wall is permitted to be protected by either of the following measures:
- In concrete or masonry walls where the penetrating item is a maximum 6-inch (152 mm) nominal diameter and the area of the opening through the wall does not exceed 144 square inches (0.0929 m2), concrete, grout or mortar is permitted where installed the full thickness of the wall or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating.
- The material used to fill the annular space shall prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste when subjected to ASTM E119 or UL 263 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated.
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Through penetrations shall be protected using systems installed as tested in the approved fire-resistance-rated assembly.
Through penetrations shall be protected by an approved penetration firestop system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water and shall have an F rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall penetrated.
Membrane penetrations shall comply with Section 714.4.1. Where walls or partitions are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.
Exceptions:
- Membrane penetrations of maximum 2-hour fire-resistance-rated walls and partitions by steel electrical boxes that do not exceed 16 square inches (0.0 103 m2) in area, provided that the aggregate area of the openings through the membrane does not exceed 100 square inches (0.0645 m2) in any 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of wall area. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm). Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall or partition shall be separated by one of the following:
- By a horizontal distance of not less than 24 inches (610 mm) where the wall or partition is constructed with individual noncommunicating stud cavities.
- By a horizontal distance of not less than the depth of the wall cavity where the wall cavity is filled with cellulose loose-fill, rockwool or slag mineral wool insulation.
- By solid fireblocking in accordance with Section 718.2.1.
- By protecting both outlet boxes with listed putty pads.
- By other listed materials and methods.
- Membrane penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any material, provided that such boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) unless listed otherwise. Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall or partition shall be separated by one of the following:
- By the horizontal distance specified in the listing of the electrical boxes.
- By solid fireblocking in accordance with Section 718.2.1.
- By protecting both boxes with listed putty pads.
- By other listed materials and methods.
- Membrane penetrations by electrical boxes of any size or type, that have been listed as part of a wall opening protective material system for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
- Membrane penetrations by boxes other than electrical boxes, provided that such penetrating items and the annular space between the wall membrane and the box, are protected by an approved membrane penetration firestop system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water, and shall have an F and T rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall penetrated and be installed in accordance with their listing.
- The annular space created by the penetration of an automatic sprinkler, provided that it is covered by a metal escutcheon plate.
- Membrane penetrations of maximum 2-hour fire-resistance-rated walls and partitions by steel electrical boxes that exceed 16 square inches (0.0 103 m2) in area, or steel electrical boxes of any size having an aggregate area through the membrane exceeding 100 square inches (0.0645 m2) in any 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of wall area, provided that such penetrating items are protected by listed putty pads or other listed materials and methods, and installed in accordance with the listing.
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Noncombustible penetrating items shall not connect to combustible items beyond the point of firestopping unless it can be demonstrated that the fire-resistance integrity of the wall is maintained.
Penetrations of a fire-resistance-rated floor, floor/ceiling assembly or the ceiling membrane of a roof/ceiling assembly not required to be enclosed in a shaft by Section 712.1 shall be protected in accordance with Sections 714.5.1 through 714.5.4.
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Exceptions:
- Penetrations by steel, ferrous or copper conduits, pipes, tubes or vents or concrete or masonry items through a single fire-resistance-rated floor assembly where the annular space is protected with materials that prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste when subjected to ASTM E119 or UL 263 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated. Penetrating items with a maximum 6-inch (152 mm) nominal diameter shall not be limited to the penetration of a single fire-resistance-rated floor assembly, provided that the aggregate area of the openings through the assembly does not exceed 144 square inches (92 900 mm2) in any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of floor area.
- Penetrations in a single concrete floor by steel, ferrous or copper conduits, pipes, tubes or vents with a maximum 6-inch (152 mm) nominal diameter, provided that the concrete, grout or mortar is installed the full thickness of the floor or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating. The penetrating items shall not be limited to the penetration of a single concrete floor, provided that the area of the opening through each floor does not exceed 144 square inches (92 900 mm2).
- Penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any material, provided that such boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
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Through penetrations shall be protected using systems installed as tested in the approved fire-resistance-rated assembly.
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Through penetrations shall be protected by an approved through-penetration firestop system installed and tested in accordance with ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch of water (2.49 Pa). The system shall have an F rating/T rating of not less than 1 hour but not less than the required rating of the floor penetrated.
Exceptions:
- Floor penetrations contained and located within the cavity of a wall above the floor or below the floor do not require a T rating.
- Floor penetrations by floor drains, tub drains or shower drains contained and located within the concealed space of a horizontal assembly do not require a T rating.
- Floor penetrations of maximum 4-inch (102 mm) nominal diameter metal conduit or tubing penetrating directly into metal-enclosed electrical power switchgear do not require a T rating.
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Penetrations of membranes that are part of a horizontal assembly shall comply with Section 714.5.1.1 or 714.5.1.2. Where floor/ceiling assemblies are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.
Exceptions:
- Membrane penetrations by steel, ferrous or copper conduits, pipes, tubes or vents, or concrete or masonry items where the annular space is protected either in accordance with Section 714.5.1 or to prevent the free passage of flame and the products of combustion. The aggregate area of the openings through the membrane shall not exceed 100 square inches (64 500 mm2) in any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of ceiling area in assemblies tested without penetrations.
- Ceiling membrane penetrations of maximum 2-hour horizontal assemblies by steel electrical boxes that do not exceed 16 square inches (10 323 mm2) in area, provided that the aggregate area of such penetrations does not exceed 100 square inches (44 500 mm2) in any 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of ceiling area, and the annular space between the ceiling membrane and the box does not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
- Membrane penetrations by electrical boxes of any size or type, that have been listed as part of an opening protective material system for use in horizontal assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
- Membrane penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any material, provided that such boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing. The annular space between the ceiling membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) unless listed otherwise.
- The annular space created by the penetration of a fire sprinkler, provided that it is covered by a metal escutcheon plate.
- Noncombustible items that are cast into concrete building elements and that do not penetrate both top and bottom surfaces of the element.
- The ceiling membrane of 1- and 2-hour fire-resistance-rated horizontal assemblies is permitted to be interrupted with the double wood top plate of a wall assembly that is sheathed with Type X gypsum wallboard, provided that all penetrating items through the double top plates are protected in accordance with Section 714.5.1.1 or 714.5.1.2 and the ceiling membrane is tight to the top plates.
- Ceiling membrane penetrations by listed luminaires (light fixtures) or by luminaires protected with listed materials, which have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
Noncombustible penetrating items shall not connect to combustible materials beyond the point of firestopping unless it can be demonstrated that the fire-resistance integrity of the horizontal assembly is maintained.
Penetrations in smoke barriers shall be protected by an approved through-penetration firestop system installed and tested in accordance with the requirements of UL 1479 for air leakage. The L rating of the system measured at 0.30 inch (7.47 Pa) of water in both the ambient temperature and elevated temperature tests shall not exceed either of the following:
- 5.0 cfm per square foot (0.025 m3/ s • m2) of penetration opening for each through-penetration firestop system.
- A total cumulative leakage of 50 cfm (0.024 m3/s) for any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of wall area, or floor area.
Penetrations of nonfire-resistance-rated floor or floor/ceiling assemblies or the ceiling membrane of a nonfire-resistance-rated roof/ceiling assembly shall meet the requirements of Section 713 or shall comply with Section 714.6.1 or 714.6.2.
Noncombustible penetrating items that connect not more than five stories are permitted, provided that the annular space is filled to resist the free passage of flame and the products of combustion with an approved noncombustible material or with a fill, void or cavity material that is tested and classified for use in through-penetration firestop systems.
Penetrating items that connect not more than two stories are permitted, provided that the annular space is filled with an approved material to resist the free passage of flame and the products of combustion.
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Joints installed in or between fire-resistance-rated walls, floor or floor/ceiling assemblies and roofs or roof/ceiling assemblies shall be protected by an approved fire-resistant joint system designed to resist the passage of fire for a time period not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall, floor or roof in or between which the system is installed. Fire-resistant joint systems shall be tested in accordance with Section 715.3.
Exception: Fire-resistant joint systems shall not be required for joints in all of the following locations:
- Floors within a single dwelling unit.
- Floors where the joint is protected by a shaft enclosure in accordance with Section 713.
- Floors within atriums where the space adjacent to the atrium is included in the volume of the atrium for smoke control purposes.
- Floors within malls.
- Floors and ramps within parking garages or structures constructed in accordance with Sections 406.5 and 406.6.
- Mezzanine floors.
- Walls that are permitted to have unprotected openings.
- Roofs where openings are permitted.
- Control joints not exceeding a maximum width of 0.625 inch (15.9 mm) and tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263.
- The intersection of exterior curtain wall assemblies and the roof slab or roof deck.
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The void created at the intersection of a floor/ceiling assembly and an exterior curtain wall assembly shall be protected in accordance with Section 715.4.
A fire-resistant joint system shall be securely installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and the listing criteria in or on the joint for its entire length so as not to impair its ability to accommodate expected building movements and to resist the passage of fire and hot gases.
Fire-resistant joint systems shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of either ASTM E1966 or UL 2079. Nonsymmetrical wall joint systems shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire-resistance rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests. Where evidence is furnished to show that the wall was tested with the least fire-resistant side exposed to the furnace, subject to acceptance of the building official, the wall need not be subjected to tests from the opposite side.
Exception: For exterior walls with a horizontal fire separation distance greater than 10 feet (3048 mm), the joint system shall be required to be tested for interior fire exposure only.
Where fire-resistance-rated floor or floor/ceiling assemblies are required, voids created at the intersection of the exterior curtain wall assemblies and such floor assemblies shall be sealed with an approved system to prevent the interior spread of fire. Such systems shall be securely installed and tested in accordance with ASTM E2307 to provide an F rating for a time period not less than the fire-resistance rating of the floor assembly. Height and fire-resistance requirements for curtain wall spandrels shall comply with Section 705.8.5.
Exception: Voids created at the intersection of the exterior curtain wall assemblies and such floor assemblies where the vision glass extends to the finished floor level shall be permitted to be sealed with an approved material to prevent the interior spread of fire. Such material shall be securely installed and capable of preventing the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to ASTM E119 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (0.254 mm) of water column (2.5 Pa) for the time period not less than the fire-resistance rating of the floor assembly.
Voids created at the intersection of nonfire-resistance-rated exterior curtain wall assemblies and fire barriers shall be filled. An approved material or system shall be used to fill the void and shall be securely installed in or on the intersection for its entire length so as not to dislodge, loosen or otherwise impair its ability to accommodate expected building movements and to retard the passage of fire and hot gases.
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Height and fire-resistance requirements for curtain wall spandrels shall comply with Section 705.8.5. Where Section 705.8.5 does not require a fire-resistance-rated spandrel wall, the requirements of Section 715.4 shall still apply to the intersection between the spandrel wall and the floor.
Fire-resistant joint systems in smoke barriers, and joints at the intersection of a horizontal smoke barrier and an exterior curtain wall, shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of UL 2079 for air leakage. The L rating of the joint system shall not exceed 5 cfm per linear foot (0.00775 m3/s m) of joint at 0.30 inch (7.47 Pa) of water for both the ambient temperature and elevated temperature tests.
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Opening protectives required by other sections of this code shall comply with the provisions of this section and shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80.
| FIRE TEST STANDARD | MARKING | DEFINITION OF MARKING |
| ASTM E119 or UL 263 | W | Meets wall assembly criteria. |
| ASTM E119 or UL 263 | FC | Meets floor/ceiling criteriaa |
| NFPA 257 or UL 9 | OH | Meets fire window assembly criteria including the hose stream test. |
| NFPA 252 or UL 10B or UL 10C | D | Meets fire door assembly criteria. |
| H | Meets fire door assembly hose stream test. | |
| T | Meets 450°F temperature rise criteria for 30 minutes | |
| — | XXX | The time in minutes of the fire resistance or fire protection rating of the glazing assembly. |
For SI: °C = [(°F) — 32]/1.8
- See Section 2409.1
| TYPE OF ASSEMBLY |
REQUIRED WALL ASSEMBLY RATING (hours) |
MINIMUM FIRE DOOR AND FIRE SHUTTER ASSEMBLY RATING (hours) |
DOOR VISION PANEL SIZEb |
FIRE-RATED GLAZING MARKING DOOR VISION PANELc, e |
MINIMUM SIDELIGHT/ TRANSOM ASSEMBLY RATING (hours) |
FIRE-RATED GLAZING MARKING SIDELIGHT/TRANSOM PANEL |
||
| Fire protection |
Fire resistance |
Fire protection |
Fire resistance |
|||||
| Fire walls and fire barriers having a required fire-resistance rating greater than 1 hour | 4 | 3 | See Note b | D-H-W-240 | Not Permitted | 4 | Not Permitted | W-240 |
| 3 | 3a | See Note b | D-H-W-180 | Not Permitted | 3 | Not Permitted | W-180 | |
| 2 | 11/2 | 100 sq. in. | ≤100 sq. in. = D-H-90 >100 sq. in.= D-H-W-90 |
Not Permitted | 2 | Not Permitted | W-120 | |
| 11/2 | 11/2 | 100 sq. in. | ≤100 sq. in. = D-H-90 >100 sq. in.= D-H-W-90 |
Not Permitted | 11/2 | Not Permitted | W-90 | |
| Enclosures for shafts, interior exit stairways and interior exit ramps. | 2 | 11/2 | 100 sq. in.c | ≤100 sq. in. = D-H-90 > 100 sq. in.= D-H-T-W-90 |
Not Permitted | 2 | Not Permitted | W-120 |
| Horizontal exits in fire wallsd | 4 | 3 | 100 sq. in. | ≤100 sq. in. = D-H-180 > 100 sq. in.= D-H-W-240 |
Not Permitted | 4 | Not Permitted | W-240 |
| 3 | 3a | 100 sq. in. | ≤100 sq. in. = D-H-180 > 100 sq. in.= D-H-W-180 |
Not Permitted | 3 | Not Permitted | W-180 | |
| Fire barriers having a required fire-resistance rating of 1 hour: Enclosures for shafts, exit access stairways, exit access ramps, interior exit stairways and interior exit ramps; and exit passageway walls |
1 | 1 | 100 sq. in. | ≤100 sq. in. = D-H-60 >100 sq. in.= D-H-T-W-60 |
Not Permitted | 1 | Not Permitted | W-60 |
| Fire protection | ||||||||
| Other fire barriers | 1 | 3/4 | Maximum size tested | D-H-45 | 3/4 | D-H-45h | ||
| Fire partitions: Corridor walls | 1 | 1/3b | Maximum size tested | D-20 | 3/4b | D-H-OH-45 | ||
| 0.5 | 1/3b | Maximum size tested | D-20 | 1/3 | D-H-OH-20 | |||
| Other fire partitions | 1 | 3/4 | Maximum size tested | D-H-45 | 3/4 | D-H-45 | ||
| 0.5 | 1/3 | Maximum size tested | D-H-20 | 1/3 | D-H-20 | |||
| Exterior walls | 3 | 11/2 | 100 sq. in.b | ≤100 sq. in. = D-H-90 > 100 sq. in = D-H-W-90 |
Not Permitted | 3 | Not Permitted | W-180 |
| 2 | 11/2 | Maximum size tested | D-H 90 or D-H-W-90 | 11/2 | 2 | D-H-OH-90 | W-120 | |
| Fire protection | ||||||||
| 1 | 3/4 | Maximum size tested | D-H-45 | 3/4 | D-H-45 | |||
| Smoke barriers | Fire protection | |||||||
| 1 | 1/3 | Maximum size tested | D-20 | 3/4 | D-H-OH-45 | |||
For SI: 1 square inch = 645.2 mm.
- Two doors, each with a fire protection rating of 11/2 hours, installed on opposite sides of the same opening in a fire wall, shall be deemed equivalent in fire protection rating to one 3-hour fire door.
- Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested to ASTM E119 in accordance with Section 716.1.2.3 shall be permitted, in the maximum size tested.
- Under the column heading "Fire-rated glazing marking door vision panel," W refers to the fire-resistance rating of the glazing, not the frame.
- See Section 716.2.5.1.2.1.
- See Section 716.1.2.2.1 and Table 716.1(1) for additional permitted markings.
| TYPE OF WALL ASSEMBLY |
REQUIRED WALL ASSEMBLY RATING (hours) |
MINIMUM FIRE WINDOW ASSEMBLY RATING (hours) |
FIRE-RATED GLAZING MARKING |
| Interior walls | |||
| All | NPa | W-XXXb | |
| >1 | NPa | W-XXXb | |
| 1 | NPa | W-XXXb | |
|
Atrium separations (Section 707.3.6),
Incidental use areas (Section 707.3.7), Mixed occupancy separations (Section 707.3.9) |
1 | 3/4 | OH-45 or W-60 |
| 1 | 3/4 | OH-45 or W-60 | |
| 0.5 | 1/3 | OH-20 or W-30 | |
| 1 | 3/4 | OH-45 or W-60 | |
| Exterior walls | >1 | 11/2 | OH-90 or W-XXXb |
| 1 | 3/4 | OH-45 or W-60 | |
| 0.5 | 1/3 | OH-20 or W-30 | |
| Party wall | All | NP | Not Applicable |
NP = Not Permitted.
- Not permitted except fire-resistance-rated glazing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3.
- XXX = The fire rating duration period in minutes, which shall be equal to the fire-resistance rating required for the wall assembly.
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The application of any of the alternative methods listed in this section shall be based on the fire exposure and acceptance criteria specified in NFPA 252, NFPA 257, UL 9, UL 10B or UL 10C. The required fire resistance of an opening protective shall be permitted to be established by any of the following methods or procedures:
- Designs documented in approved sources.
- Calculations performed in an approved manner.
- Engineering analysis based on a comparison of opening protective designs having fire protection ratings as determined by the test procedures set forth in NFPA 252, NFPA 257, UL 9, UL 10B or UL 10C.
- Alternative protection methods as allowed by Section 104.11.
Glazing used in fire door assemblies and fire window assemblies shall comply with this section in addition to the requirements of Sections 716.2 and 716.3, respectively.
Fire-protection-rated glazing and fire-resistance-rated glazing installed in fire door assemblies and fire window assemblies shall comply with the safety glazing requirements of Chapter 24 where applicable.
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Fire-rated glazing assemblies shall be marked in accordance with Tables 716.1(1), 716.1(2) and 716.1(3).
For fire-rated glazing, the label shall bear the identification required in Tables 716.1(1) and 716.1(2). "D" indicates that the glazing is permitted to be used in fire door assemblies and meets the fire protection requirements of NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C. "H" indicates that the glazing meets the hose stream requirements of NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C. "T" indicates that the glazing meets the temperature requirements of Section 716.2.2.3.1. The placeholder "XXX" represents the fire-rating period, in minutes.
For fire-protection-rated glazing, the label shall bear the following identification required in Tables 716.1(1) and 716.1(3): "OH — XXX." "OH" indicates that the glazing meets both the fire protection and the hose-stream requirements of NFPA 257 or UL 9 and is permitted to be used in fire window openings. The placeholder "XXX" represents the fire-rating period, in minutes.
For fire-resistance-rated glazing, the label shall bear the identification required in Section 703.6 and Table 716.1.(1).
Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked as complying with hose stream requirements (H) shall be permitted in applications that do not require compliance with hose stream requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked as complying with temperature rise requirements (T) shall be permitted in applications that do not require compliance with temperature rise requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked with ratings (XXX) that exceed the ratings required by this code shall be permitted.
Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated wall or floor/ceiling assembly in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 and labeled in accordance with Section 703.6 shall not otherwise be required to comply with this section where used as part of a wall or floor/ceiling assembly.
Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall be permitted in fire door and fire window assemblies where tested and installed in accordance with their listings and where in compliance with the requirements of this section.
Fire door assemblies required by other sections of this code shall comply with the provisions of this section. Fire door frames with transom lights, sidelights or both shall be permitted in accordance with Section 716.2.5.4.
Approved fire door and fire shutter assemblies shall be constructed of any material or assembly of component materials that conforms to the test requirements of Sections 716.2.1.1 through 716.2.1.4 and the fire protection rating indicated in Table 716.1(2).
Exceptions:
- Labeled protective assemblies that conform to the requirements of this section or UL 10A, UL 14B and UL 14C for tin-clad fire door assemblies.
- Floor fire door assemblies in accordance with Section 712.1.13.1.
Fire door assemblies with side-hinged and pivoted swinging doors shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252 or UL 10C. For tests conducted in accordance with NFPA 252, the fire test shall be conducted using the positive pressure method specified in the standard.
Fire door assemblies with other types of doors, including swinging elevator doors, horizontal sliding fire doors, rolling steel fire doors, fire shutters, bottom- and side-hinged chute intake doors, and top-hinged chute discharge doors, shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252 or UL 10B. For tests conducted in accordance with NFPA 252, the neutral pressure plane in the furnace shall be maintained as nearly equal to the atmospheric pressure as possible at the top of the door, as specified in the standard.
Glazing material in any other part of the door assembly, including transom lights and sidelights, shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 257 or UL 9, including the hose stream test, in accordance with Section 716.3.1.1.
Fire door assemblies that serve as smoke and draft control assemblies shall be tested in accordance with UL 1784.
Fire door assemblies shall be installed in the assemblies specified in Table 716.1(2) and shall comply with the fire protection rating specified.
Fire door assemblies required to have a minimum fire protection rating of 20 minutes where located in corridor walls or smoke barrier walls having a fire-resistance rating in accordance with Table 716.1(2) shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252 or UL 10C without the hose stream test.
Exceptions:
- Viewports that require a hole not larger than 1 inch (25 mm) in diameter through the door, have not less than a 0.25-inch-thick (6.4 mm) glass disc and the holder is of metal that will not melt out where subject to temperatures of 1,700°F (927°C).
- Corridor door assemblies in occupancies of Group I-2 shall be in accordance with Section 407.3.1.
- Unprotected openings shall be permitted for corridors in multitheater complexes where each motion picture auditorium has not fewer than one-half of its required exit or exit access doorways opening directly to the exterior or into an exit passageway.
- Horizontal sliding doors in smoke barriers that comply with Sections 408.6 and 408.8.4 in occupancies in Group I-3.
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The air leakage rate of the door assembly shall not exceed 3.0 cubic feet per minute per square foot (0.01524 m3/s × m2) of door opening at 0.10 inch (24.9 Pa) of water for both the ambient temperature and elevated temperature tests. Louvers shall be prohibited.
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Fire door assemblies required to have a minimum fire protection rating of 20 minutes where located in other fire partitions having a fire-resistance rating of 0.5 hour in accordance with Table 716.1(2) shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C with the hose stream test.
Fire door assemblies in interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways shall have a maximum transmitted temperature rise of not more than 450°F (250°C) above ambient at the end of 30 minutes of standard fire test exposure.
Exception: The maximum transmitted temperature rise is not required in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Fire-protection-rated glazing in excess of 100 square inches (0.065 m2) is not permitted. Fire-resistance-rated glazing in excess of 100 square inches (0.065 m2) shall be permitted in fire doors. Listed fire-resistance-rated glazing in a fire door shall have a maximum transmitted temperature rise in accordance with Section 716.2.2.3 when the fire door is tested in accordance with NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C.
Fire doors installed within a fire door assembly shall meet the fire rating indicated in Table 716.1(2).
Fire door frames installed as part of a fire door assembly shall meet the fire rating indicated in Table 716.1(2).
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Fire-rated glazing conforming to the opening protection requirements in Section 716.2.1 shall be permitted in fire door assemblies.
Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall comply with the size limitations in Section 716.2.5.1.1. Fire-protection-rated glazing shall comply with the size limitations of NFPA 80, and as provided in Section 716.2.5.1.2.
Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263 and NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C shall be permitted in fire door assemblies located in fire walls and in fire barriers in accordance with Table 716.1(2) to the maximum size tested and in accordance with their listings.
Fire-protection-rated glazing shall be prohibited in fire walls and fire barriers except as provided in Sections 716.2.5.1.2.1 and 716.2.5.1.2.2.
Fire-protection-rated glazing shall be permitted as vision panels in self-closing swinging fire door assemblies serving as horizontal exits in fire walls where limited to 100 square inches (0.065 m2).
Fire-protection-rated glazing shall be permitted in fire doors having a 11/2-hour fire protection rating intended for installation in fire barriers, where limited to 100 square inches (0.065 m2).
In a 20-minute fire door assembly, the glazing material in the door itself shall have a minimum fire-protection-rated glazing of 20 minutes and shall be exempt from the hose stream test.
Fire-protection-rated glazing shall be permitted in door frames with transom lights, sidelights or both, where a 3/4-hour fire protection rating or less is required and in 2-hour fire-resistance-rated exterior walls in accordance with Table 716.1(2). Fire door frames with transom lights, sidelights, or both, installed with fire-resistance-rated glazing tested as an assembly in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall be permitted where a fire protection rating exceeding 3/4 hour is required in accordance with Table 716.1(2).
Fire door hardware and closures shall be installed on fire door assemblies in accordance with the requirements of this section.
Fire doors shall be latching and self- or automatic-closing in accordance with this section.
Exceptions:
- Fire doors located in common walls separating sleeping units in Group R-1 shall be permitted without automatic- or self-closing devices.
- The elevator car doors and the associated hoistway enclosure doors at the floor level designated for recall in accordance with Section 3003.2 shall be permitted to remain open during Phase I emergency recall operation.
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Unless otherwise specifically permitted, single side-hinged swinging fire doors and both leaves of pairs of side-hinged swinging fire doors shall be provided with an active latch bolt that will secure the door when it is closed.
Chute intake doors shall be positive latching, remaining latched and closed in the event of latch spring failure during a fire emergency.
Doors required to be self-closing and not required to be automatic closing shall be permitted to be equipped with delayed-action closers.
Automatic-closing doors installed in the following locations shall be permitted to have hold-open devices. Doors shall automatically close by the actuation of smoke detectors installed in accordance with Section 907.3 or by loss of power to the smoke detector or hold-open device. Doors that are automatic-closing by smoke detection shall not have more than a 10-second delay before the door starts to close after the smoke detector is actuated. Automatic-closing doors that protect openings installed in the following locations shall comply with this section:
- In walls that separate incidental uses in accordance with Section 509.4.
- In fire walls in accordance with Section 706.8.
- In fire barriers in accordance with Section 707.6.
- In fire partitions in accordance with Section 708.6.
- In smoke barriers in accordance with Section 709.5.
- In smoke partitions in accordance with Section 710.5.2.3.
- In shaft enclosures in accordance with Section 713.7.
- In waste and linen chutes, discharge openings and access and discharge rooms in accordance with Section 713.13. Loading doors installed in waste and linen chutes shall meet the requirements of Sections 716.2.6.1 and 716.2.6.3.
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Vertical sliding or vertical rolling steel fire doors in openings through which pedestrians travel shall be heat activated or activated by smoke detectors with alarm verification.
Where fire shutters of the swinging type are installed in exterior openings, not less than one row in every three vertical rows shall be arranged to be readily opened from the outside, and shall be identified by distinguishing marks or letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high.
Fire door assemblies shall be labeled by an approved agency. The labels shall comply with NFPA 80, and shall be permanently affixed to the door or frame.
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Fire doors shall be labeled showing the name of the manufacturer or other identification readily traceable back to the manufacturer, the name or trademark of the third-party inspection agency, the fire protection rating and, where required for fire doors in interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways by Section 716.2.2.3, the maximum transmitted temperature end point. Smoke and draft control doors complying with UL 1784 shall be labeled as such and shall comply with Section 716.2.9.3. Labels shall be approved and permanently affixed. The label shall be applied at the factory or location where fabrication and assembly are performed.
Listed light kits and louvers and their required preparations shall be considered as part of the labeled door where such installations are done under the listing program of the third-party agency. Fire doors and fire door assemblies shall be permitted to consist of components, including glazing, vision light kits and hardware that are listed or classified and labeled for such use by different third-party agencies.
Oversized fire doors shall bear an oversized fire door label by an approved agency or shall be provided with a certificate of inspection furnished by an approved testing agency. Where a certificate of inspection is furnished by an approved testing agency, the certificate shall state that the door conforms to the requirements of design, materials and construction, but has not been subjected to the fire test.
Smoke and draft control doors complying with UL 1784 shall be labeled in accordance with Section 716.2.9.1 and shall show the letter "S" on the fire-rating label of the door. This marking shall indicate that the door and frame assembly are in compliance where listed or labeled gasketing is installed.
Fire-rated glazing shall bear a label or other identification showing the name of the manufacturer, the test standard and information required in Table 716.1(1) that shall be issued by an approved agency and shall be permanently identified on the glazing.
Installation of smoke doors shall be in accordance with NFPA 105.
Fire window assemblies required by other sections of this code shall comply with the provisions of this section.
Fire window assemblies shall be constructed of any material or assembly of component materials that conforms to the test requirements of Sections 716.3.1.1 and 716.3.1.2 and the fire protection rating indicated in Table 716.1(3).
NFPA 257 or UL 9 shall evaluate fire-protection-rated glazing under positive pressure. Within the first 10 minutes of a test, the pressure in the furnace shall be adjusted so not less than two-thirds of the test specimen is above the neutral pressure plane, and the neutral pressure plane shall be maintained at that height for the balance of the test.
Nonsymmetrical fire-protection-rated glazing systems in fire partitions, fire barriers or in exterior walls with a fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) or less pursuant to Section 705 shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire protection rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with NFPA 257 or UL 9.
Fire window assemblies shall be installed in the assemblies and comply with the fire protection rating specified in Table 716.1(3).
Fire-protection-rated glazing used in fire window assemblies located in fire partitions and fire barriers shall be limited to use in assemblies with a maximum fire-resistance rating of 1 hour in accordance with this section.
Fire-protection-rated glazing requiring 45-minute opening protection in accordance with Table 716.1(3) shall be limited to fire partitions designed in accordance with Section 708 and fire barriers utilized in the applications set forth in Sections 707.3.6, 707.3.7 and 707.3.9 where the fire-resistance rating does not exceed 1 hour. Fire-resistance-rated glazing assemblies tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not be subject to the limitations of this section.
Fire-protection-rated glazing shall be permitted in window assemblies tested to NFPA 257 or UL 9 in fire partitions requiring 1/3-hour opening protection in accordance with Table 716.1(3).
Fire window frames installed with a fire window assembly shall meet the fire-protection rating indicated in Table 716.1(3).
Metal mullions that exceed a nominal height of 12 feet (3658 mm) shall be protected with materials to afford the same fire-resistance rating as required for the wall construction in which the protective is located.
Glazing in fire window assemblies shall be fire protection rated in accordance with this section and Table 716.1(3). Fire-protection-rated glazing in fire window assemblies shall be tested in accordance with and shall meet the acceptance criteria of NFPA 257 or UL 9. Openings in nonfire-resistance-rated exterior wall assemblies that require protection in accordance with Section 705.3, 705.8, 705.8.5 or 705.8.6 shall have a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour. Fire-protection-rated glazing in 1/2-hour fire-resistance-rated partitions is permitted to have a 20-minute fire protection rating.
Glazing in fire window assemblies shall be fire-protection-rated glazing installed in accordance with and complying with the size limitations set forth in NFPA 80.
Glazing in fire window assemblies shall be labeled by an approved agency. The labels shall comply with NFPA 80 and Section 716.3.5.2.
Fire window frames shall be approved for the intended application.
Fire-protection-rated glazing shall bear a label or other identification showing the name of the manufacturer, the test standard and information required in Section 716.1.2.2.2 and Table 716.1(3) that shall be issued by an approved agency and permanently identified on the glazing.
Fire window assemblies shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of this section.
The provisions of this section shall govern the protection of duct penetrations and air transfer openings in assemblies required to be protected and duct penetrations in nonfire-resistance-rated floor assemblies.
Ducts transitioning horizontally between shafts shall not require a shaft enclosure provided that the duct penetration into each associated shaft is protected with dampers complying with this section.
Ducts that penetrate fire-resistance-rated walls and are not required by this section to have fire dampers shall comply with the requirements of Sections 714.3 through 714.4.3. Ducts that penetrate horizontal assemblies not required to be contained within a shaft and not required by this section to have fire dampers shall comply with the requirements of Sections 714.5 through 714.6.2.
The space around a duct penetrating a nonfire-resistance-rated floor assembly shall comply with Section 717.6.3.
Fire dampers, smoke dampers, combination fire/smoke dampers and ceiling radiation dampers located within air distribution and smoke control systems shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of this section, the manufacturer's instructions and the dampers' listing.
Where the installation of a fire damper will interfere with the operation of a required smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, approved alternative protection shall be utilized. Where mechanical systems including ducts and dampers utilized for normal building ventilation serve as part of the smoke control system, the expected performance of these systems in smoke control mode shall be addressed in the rational analysis required by Section 909.4.
Fire dampers for hazardous exhaust duct systems shall comply with the International Mechanical Code.
Dampers shall be listed and labeled in accordance with the standards in this section.
- Fire dampers shall comply with the requirements of UL 555. Only fire dampers labeled for use in dynamic systems shall be installed in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems designed to operate with fans on during a fire.
- Smoke dampers shall comply with the requirements of UL 555S.
- Combination fire/smoke dampers shall comply with the requirements of both UL 555 and UL 555S.
- Ceiling radiation dampers shall comply with the requirements of UL 555C or shall be tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263. Only ceiling radiation dampers labeled for use in dynamic systems shall be installed in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems designed to operate with fans on during a fire.
- Corridor dampers shall comply with requirements of both UL 555 and UL 555S. Corridor dampers shall demonstrate acceptable closure performance when subjected to 150 feet per minute (0.76 mps) velocity across the face of the damper during the UL 555 fire exposure test.
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Fire dampers shall have the minimum rating specified in Table 717.3.2.1.
| TYPE OF PENETRATION |
MINIMUM DAMPER RATING (hours) |
| Less than 3-hour fire-resistance-rated assemblies | 1.5 |
| 3-hour or greater fire-resistance-rated assemblies | 3 |
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Smoke damper leakage ratings shall be Class I or II. Elevated temperature ratings shall be not less than 250°F (121°C).
Combination fire/smoke dampers shall have the minimum rating specified for fire dampers in Table 717.3.2.1 and shall have the minimum rating specified for smoke dampers in Section 717.3.2.2.
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Corridor dampers shall have the following minimum ratings:
- One hour fire-resistance rating.
- Class I or II leakage rating as specified in Section 717.3.2.2.
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The fire damper actuation device shall meet one of the following requirements:
- The operating temperature shall be approximately 50°F (10°C) above the normal temperature within the duct system, but not less than 160°F (71°C).
- The operating temperature shall be not more than 350°F (177°C) where located in a smoke control system complying with Section 909.
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The smoke damper shall close upon actuation of a listed smoke detector or detectors installed in accordance with Section 907.3 and one of the following methods, as applicable:
- Where a smoke damper is installed within a duct, a smoke detector shall be installed inside the duct or outside the duct with sampling tubes protruding into the duct. The detector or tubes within the duct shall be within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the damper. Air outlets and inlets shall not be located between the detector or tubes and the damper. The detector shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity anticipated at the point where it is installed. Other than in mechanical smoke control systems, dampers shall be closed upon fan shutdown where local smoke detectors require a minimum velocity to operate.
- Where a smoke damper is installed above smoke barrier doors in a smoke barrier, a spot-type detector shall be installed on either side of the smoke barrier door opening. The detector shall be listed for releasing service if used for direct interface with the damper.
- Where a smoke damper is installed within an air transfer opening in a wall, a spot-type detector shall be installed within 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally of the damper. The detector shall be listed for releasing service if used for direct interface with the damper.
- Where a smoke damper is installed in a corridor wall or ceiling, the damper shall be permitted to be controlled by a smoke detection system installed in the corridor.
- Where a smoke detection system is installed in all areas served by the duct in which the damper will be located, the smoke dampers shall be permitted to be controlled by the smoke detection system.
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Combination fire/smoke damper actuation shall be in accordance with Sections 717.3.3.1 and 717.3.3.2. Combination fire/smoke dampers installed in smoke control system shaft penetrations shall not be activated by local area smoke detection unless it is secondary to the smoke management system controls.
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The operating temperature of a ceiling radiation damper actuation device shall be 50°F (27.8°C) above the normal temperature within the duct system, but not less than 160°F (71°C).
Fire and smoke dampers shall be provided with an approved means of access that is large enough to permit inspection and maintenance of the damper and its operating parts. The access shall not affect the integrity of fire-resistance-rated assemblies. The access openings shall not reduce the fire-resistance rating of the assembly. Access points shall be permanently identified on the exterior by a label having letters not less than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in height reading: FIRE/SMOKE DAMPER, SMOKE DAMPER or FIRE DAMPER. Access doors in ducts shall be tight fitting and suitable for the required duct construction.
Fire, dampers, smoke dampers, combination fire/smoke dampers, ceiling radiation dampers and corridor dampers shall be provided at the locations prescribed in Sections 717.5.1 through 717.5.7 and 717.6. Where an assembly is required to have both fire dampers and smoke dampers, combination fire/smoke dampers or a fire damper and a smoke damper shall be provided.
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Ducts and air transfer openings permitted in fire walls in accordance with Section 706.11 shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing.
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A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a fire wall that serves as a horizontal exit.
Ducts and air transfer openings of fire barriers shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing. Ducts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate enclosures for interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways, except as permitted by Sections 1023.5 and 1024.6, respectively.
Exception: Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of fire barriers where any of the following apply:
- Penetrations are tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 as part of the fire-resistance-rated assembly.
- Ducts are used as part of an approved smoke control system in accordance with Section 909 and where the use of a fire damper would interfere with the operation of a smoke control system.
- Such walls are penetrated by ducted HVAC systems, have a required fire-resistance rating of 1 hour or less, are in areas of other than Group H and are in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. For the purposes of this exception, a ducted HVAC system shall be a duct system for conveying supply, return or exhaust air as part of the structure's HVAC system. Such a duct system shall be constructed of sheet steel not less than No. 26 gage thickness and shall be continuous from the air-handling appliance or equipment to the air outlet and inlet terminals.
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A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a fire barrier that serves as a horizontal exit.
Shaft enclosures that are permitted to be penetrated by ducts and air transfer openings shall be protected with listed fire and smoke dampers installed in accordance with their listing.
Exceptions:
- Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of shafts where any of the following criteria are met:
- Steel exhaust subducts are extended not less than 22 inches (559 mm) vertically in exhaust shafts, provided that there is a continuous airflow upward to the outside.
- Penetrations are tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 as part of the fire-resistance-rated assembly.
- Ducts are used as part of an approved smoke control system designed and installed in accordance with Section 909 and where the fire damper will interfere with the operation of the smoke control system.
- The penetrations are in parking garage exhaust or supply shafts that are separated from other building shafts by not less than 2-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
- In Group B and R occupancies equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, smoke dampers are not required at penetrations of shafts where all of the following criteria are met:
- Kitchen, clothes dryer, bathroom and toilet room exhaust openings are installed with steel exhaust subducts, having a minimum wall thickness of 0.0187-inch (0.4712 mm) (No. 26 gage).
- The subducts extend not less than 22 inches (559 mm) vertically.
- An exhaust fan is installed at the upper terminus of the shaft that is powered continuously in accordance with the provisions of Section 909.11, so as to maintain a continuous upward airflow to the outside.
- Smoke dampers are not required at penetration of exhaust or supply shafts in parking garages that are separated from other building shafts by not less than 2-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
- Smoke dampers are not required at penetrations of shafts where ducts are used as part of an approved mechanical smoke control system designed in accordance with Section 909 and where the smoke damper will interfere with the operation of the smoke control system.
- Fire dampers and combination fire/smoke dampers are not required in kitchen and clothes dryer exhaust systems where dampers are prohibited by the International Mechanical Code.
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Ducts and air transfer openings that penetrate fire partitions shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing.
Exceptions:
In occupancies other than Group H, fire dampers are not required where any of the following apply:
- Corridor walls in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the duct is protected as a through penetration in accordance with Section 714.
- Tenant partitions in covered and open mall buildings where the walls are not required by provisions elsewhere in the code to extend to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above.
- The duct system is constructed of approved materials in accordance with the International Mechanical Code and the duct penetrating the wall complies with all of the following requirements:
- The duct shall not exceed 100 square inches (0.06 m2).
- The duct shall be constructed of steel not less than 0.0217 inch (0.55 mm) in thickness.
- The duct shall not have openings that communicate the corridor with adjacent spaces or rooms.
- The duct shall be installed above a ceiling.
- The duct shall not terminate at a wall register in the fire-resistance-rated wall.
- A minimum 12-inch-long (305 mm) by 0.060-inch-thick (1.52 mm) steel sleeve shall be centered in each duct opening. The sleeve shall be secured to both sides of the wall and all four sides of the sleeve with minimum 11/2-inch by 11/2-inch by 0.060-inch (38 mm by 38 mm by 1.52 mm) steel retaining angles. The retaining angles shall be secured to the sleeve and the wall with No. 10 (M5) screws. The annular space between the steel sleeve and the wall opening shall be filled with mineral wool batting on all sides.
- Such walls are penetrated by ducted HVAC systems, have a required fire-resistance rating of 1 hour or less, and are in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. For the purposes of this exception, a ducted HVAC system shall be a duct system for conveying supply, return or exhaust air as part of the structure's HVAC system. Such a duct system shall be constructed of sheet steel not less than No. 26 gage thickness and shall be continuous from the air-handling appliance or equipment to the air outlet and inlet terminals.
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Duct and air transfer openings that penetrate corridors shall be protected with dampers as follows:
- A corridor damper shall be provided where corridor ceilings, constructed as required for the corridor walls as permitted in Section 708.4, Exception 3, are penetrated.
- A ceiling radiation damper shall be provided where the ceiling membrane of a fire-resistance-rated floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling assembly, constructed as permitted in Section 708.4, Exception 2, is penetrated.
- A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a corridor enclosure required to have smoke and draft control doors in accordance with Section 716.2.2.1.
Exceptions:
- Smoke dampers are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an approved smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, and smoke dampers are not necessary for the operation and control of the system.
- Smoke dampers are not required in corridor penetrations where the duct is constructed of steel not less than 0.019 inch (0.48 mm) in thickness and there are no openings serving the corridor.
A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a smoke barrier. Smoke dampers and smoke damper actuation methods shall comply with Section 717.3.3.2.
Exceptions:
- Smoke dampers are not required where the openings in ducts are limited to a single smoke compartment and the ducts are constructed of steel.
- Smoke dampers are not required in smoke barriers required by Section 407.5 for Group I-2, Condition 2—where the HVAC system is fully ducted in accordance with Section 603 of the International Mechanical Code and where buildings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and equipped with quick-response sprinklers in accordance with Section 903.3.2.
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Ducts and air transfer openings in fire-resistance-rated exterior walls required to have protected openings in accordance with Section 705.10 shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing.
A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point that an air transfer opening penetrates a smoke partition. Smoke dampers and smoke damper actuation methods shall comply with Section 717.3.3.2.
Exception: Where the installation of a smoke damper will interfere with the operation of a required smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, approved alternative protection shall be utilized.
Penetrations by ducts and air transfer openings of a floor, floor/ceiling assembly or the ceiling membrane of a roof/ceiling assembly shall be protected by a shaft enclosure that complies with Section 713 or shall comply with Sections 717.6.1 through 717.6.3.
In occupancies other than Groups I-2 and I-3, a duct constructed of approved materials in accordance with the International Mechanical Code that penetrates a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling assembly that connects not more than two stories is permitted without shaft enclosure protection, provided that a listed fire damper is installed at the floor line or the duct is protected in accordance with Section 714.5. For air transfer openings, see Section 712.1.9.
Exception: A duct is permitted to penetrate three floors or less without a fire damper at each floor, provided that such duct meets all of the following requirements:
- The duct shall be contained and located within the cavity of a wall and shall be constructed of steel having a minimum wall thickness of 0.0187 inches (0.4712 mm) (No. 26 gage).
- The duct shall open into only one dwelling or sleeping unit and the duct system shall be continuous from the unit to the exterior of the building.
- The duct shall not exceed 4-inch (102 mm) nominal diameter and the total area of such ducts shall not exceed 100 square inches (0.065 m2) in any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of floor area.
- The annular space around the duct is protected with materials that prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to ASTM E119 or UL 263 time-temperature conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated.
- Grille openings located in a ceiling of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly shall be protected with a listed ceiling radiation damper installed in accordance with Section 717.6.2.1.
Ducts and air transfer openings constructed of approved materials in accordance with the International Mechanical Code that penetrate the ceiling membrane of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly shall be protected with one of the following:
- A shaft enclosure in accordance with Section 713.
- A listed ceiling radiation damper installed at the ceiling line where a duct penetrates the ceiling of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly.Exceptions:
- A fire-resistance-rated assembly tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 showing that ceiling radiation dampers are not required in order to maintain the fire-resistance rating of the assembly.
- Where exhaust duct or outdoor air duct penetrations protected in accordance with Section 714.5.2 are located within the cavity of a wall and do not pass through another dwelling unit or tenant space.
- Where duct and air transfer openings are protected with a duct outlet penetration system tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263.
- A listed ceiling radiation damper installed at the ceiling line where a diffuser with no duct attached penetrates the ceiling of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly.Exceptions:
- A fire-resistance-rated assembly tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 showing that ceiling radiation dampers are not required in order to maintain the fire-resistance rating of the assembly.
- Where duct and air transfer openings are protected with a duct outlet penetration system tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263.
Ceiling radiation dampers shall be tested in accordance with Section 717.3.1. Ceiling radiation dampers shall be installed in accordance with the details listed in the fire-resistance-rated assembly and the manufacturer's instructions and the listing.
Duct systems constructed of approved materials in accordance with the International Mechanical Code that penetrate nonfire-resistance-rated floor assemblies shall be protected by any of the following methods:
- A shaft enclosure in accordance with Section 713.
- The duct connects not more than two stories, and the annular space around the penetrating duct is protected with an approved noncombustible material that resists the free passage of flame and the products of combustion.
- In floor assemblies composed of noncombustible materials, a shaft shall not be required where the duct connects not more than three stories, the annular space around the penetrating duct is protected with an approved noncombustible material that resists the free passage of flame and the products of combustion and a fire damper is installed at each floor line.Exception: Fire dampers are not required in ducts within individual residential dwelling units.
Flexible ducts and air connectors shall not pass through any fire-resistance-rated assembly. Flexible air connectors shall not pass through any wall, floor or ceiling.
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Fireblocking and draftstopping shall be installed in combustible concealed locations in accordance with this section. Fireblocking shall comply with Section 718.2. Draftstopping in floor/ceiling spaces and attic spaces shall comply with Sections 718.3 and 718.4, respectively. The permitted use of combustible materials in concealed spaces of buildings of Type I or II construction shall be limited to the applications indicated in Section 718.5.
In combustible construction, fireblocking shall be installed to cut off concealed draft openings (both vertical and horizontal) and shall form an effective barrier between floors, between a top story and a roof or attic space. Fireblocking shall be installed in the locations specified in Sections 718.2.2 through 718.2.7.
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Fireblocking shall consists of the following materials:
- Two-inch (51 mm) nominal lumber.
- Two thicknesses of 1-inch (25 mm) nominal lumber with broken lap joints.
- One thickness of 0.719-inch (18.3 mm) wood structural panels with joints backed by 0.719-inch (18.3 mm) wood structural panels.
- One thickness of 0.75-inch (19.1 mm) particleboard with joints backed by 0.75-inch (19 mm) particleboard.
- One-half-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
- One-fourth-inch (6.4 mm) cement-based millboard.
- Batts or blankets of mineral wood, mineral fiber or other approved materials installed in such a manner as to be securely retained in place.
- Cellulose insulation installed as tested for the specific application.
- Mass timber complying with Section 2304.11.
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Batts or blankets of mineral wool or mineral fiber or other approved nonrigid materials shall be permitted for compliance with the 10-foot (3048 mm) horizontal fireblocking in walls constructed using parallel rows of studs or staggered studs.
Unfaced fiberglass batt insulation used as fireblocking shall fill the entire cross section of the wall cavity to a minimum height of 16 inches (406 mm) measured vertically. Where piping, conduit or similar obstructions are encountered, the insulation shall be packed tightly around the obstruction.
Loose-fill insulation material, insulating foam sealants and caulk materials shall not be used as a fireblock unless specifically tested in the form and manner intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in place and to retard the spread of fire and hot gases.
The integrity of fireblocks shall be maintained.
Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber or other approved nonrigid materials shall be allowed as fireblocking in walls constructed using parallel rows of studs or staggered studs.
Fireblocking shall be provided in concealed spaces of stud walls and partitions, including furred spaces, and parallel rows of studs or staggered studs, as follows:
- Vertically at the ceiling and floor levels.
- Horizontally at intervals not exceeding 10 feet (3048 mm).
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Fireblocking shall be provided at interconnections between concealed vertical stud wall or partition spaces and concealed horizontal spaces created by an assembly of floor joists or trusses, and between concealed vertical and horizontal spaces such as occur at soffits, drop ceilings, cove ceilings and similar locations.
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Fireblocking shall be provided in concealed spaces between stair stringers at the top and bottom of the run. Enclosed spaces under stairways shall comply with Section 1011.7.3.
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Where required by Section 712.1.8, Exception 1 of Section 714.5.1.2 or Section 714.6, fireblocking of the annular space around vents, pipes, ducts, chimneys and fireplaces at ceilings and floor levels shall be installed with a material specifically tested in the form and manner intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in place and resist the free passage of flame and the products of combustion.
Upcodes Diagrams
Factory-built chimneys and fireplaces shall be fireblocked in accordance with UL 103 and UL 127.
Fireblocking shall be installed within concealed spaces of exterior wall coverings and other exterior architectural elements where permitted to be of combustible construction as specified in Section 1405 or where erected with combustible frames. Fireblocking shall be installed at maximum intervals of 20 feet (6096 mm) in either dimension so that there will be no concealed space exceeding 100 square feet (9.3 m2) between fireblocking. Where wood furring strips are used, they shall be of approved wood of natural decay resistance or preservative-treated wood. If noncontinuous, such elements shall have closed ends, with not less than 4 inches (102 mm) of separation between sections.
Exceptions:
- Fireblocking of cornices is not required in single-family dwellings. Fireblocking of cornices of a two-family dwelling is required only at the line of dwelling unit separation.
- Fireblocking shall not be required where the exterior wall covering is installed on noncombustible framing and the face of the exterior wall covering exposed to the concealed space is covered by one of the following materials:
- Aluminum having a minimum thickness of 0.019 inch (0.5 mm).
- Corrosion-resistant steel having a base metal thickness not less than 0.016 inch (0.4 mm) at any point.
- Other approved noncombustible materials.
- Fireblocking shall not be required where the exterior wall covering has been tested in accordance with, and complies with the acceptance criteria of, NFPA 285. The exterior wall covering shall be installed as tested in accordance with NFPA 285.
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Where wood sleepers are used for laying wood flooring on masonry or concrete fire-resistance-rated floors, the space between the floor slab and the underside of the wood flooring shall be filled with an approved material to resist the free passage of flame and products of combustion or fireblocked in such a manner that open spaces under the flooring shall not exceed 100 square feet (9.3 m2) in area and such space shall be filled solidly under permanent partitions so that communication under the flooring between adjoining rooms shall not occur.
Exceptions:
- Fireblocking is not required for slab-on-grade floors in gymnasiums.
- Fireblocking is required only at the juncture of each alternate lane and at the ends of each lane in a bowling facility.
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Draftstopping shall be installed to subdivide floor/ceiling assemblies where required by Section 708.4.2. In other than Group R occupancies, draftstopping shall be installed to subdivide combustible floor/ceiling assemblies so that horizontal floor areas do not exceed 1,000 square feet (93 m2).
Exception: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
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Draftstopping materials shall be not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board, 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) wood structural panel, 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) particleboard, 1-inch (25-mm) nominal lumber, cement fiberboard, batts or blankets of mineral wool or glass fiber, or other approved materials adequately supported. The integrity of draftstops shall be maintained.
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Draftstopping shall be installed to subdivide attic spaces where required by Section 708.4.2. In other than Group R, draftstopping shall be installed to subdivide combustible attic spaces and combustible concealed roof spaces such that any horizontal area does not exceed 3,000 square feet (279 m2). Ventilation of concealed roof spaces shall be maintained in accordance with Section 1202.2.1.
Exception: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
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Materials utilized for draftstopping of attic spaces shall comply with Section 718.3.1.
Openings in the partitions shall be protected by self-closing doors with automatic latches constructed as required for the partitions.
Combustible materials shall not be permitted in concealed spaces of buildings of Type I or II construction.
Exceptions:
- Combustible materials in accordance with Section 603.
- Combustible materials exposed within plenums complying with Section 602 of the International Mechanical Code.
- Class A interior finish materials classified in accordance with Section 803.
- Combustible piping within partitions or shaft enclosures installed in accordance with the provisions of this code.
- Combustible piping within concealed ceiling spaces installed in accordance with the International Mechanical Code and the International Plumbing Code.
- Combustible insulation and covering on pipe and tubing, installed in concealed spaces other than plenums, complying with Section 720.7.
The minimum thickness of gypsum plaster or Portland cement plaster used in a fire-resistance-rated system shall be determined by the prescribed fire tests. The plaster thickness shall be measured from the face of the lath where applied to gypsum lath or metal lath.
For fire-resistance purposes, 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) of unsanded gypsum plaster shall be deemed equivalent to 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) of one-to-three gypsum sand plaster or 1 inch (25 mm) of Portland cement sand plaster.
In reinforced concrete construction, gypsum plaster or Portland cement plaster is permitted to be substituted for 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) of the required poured concrete protection, except that a minimum thickness of 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) of poured concrete shall be provided in reinforced concrete floors and 1 inch (25 mm) in reinforced concrete columns in addition to the plaster finish. The concrete base shall be prepared in accordance with Section 2510.7.
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Insulating materials shall comply with the requirements of this section. Where a flame spread index or a smoke-developed index is specified in this section, such index shall be determined in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Any material that is subject to an increase in flame spread index or smoke-developed index beyond the limits herein established through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric conditions shall not be permitted. Insulating materials, when tested in accordance with the requirements of this section, shall include facings, when used, such as vapor retarders, vapor permeable membranes and similar coverings, and all layers of single and multilayer reflective foil insulation and similar materials.
Exceptions:
- Fiberboard insulation shall comply with Chapter 23.
- Foam plastic insulation shall comply with Chapter 26.
- Duct and pipe insulation and duct and pipe coverings and linings in plenums shall comply with the International Mechanical Code.
- All layers of single and multilayer reflective plastic core insulation shall comply with Section 2614.
Insulating materials, where concealed as installed in buildings of any type of construction, shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450.
Exception: Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation complying with the requirements of Section 720.6 shall not be required to meet a flame spread index requirement but shall be required to meet a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
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Where such materials are installed in concealed spaces in buildings of Type III, IV or V construction, the flame spread and smoke-developed limitations do not apply to facings, coverings, and layers of reflective foil insulation that are installed behind and in substantial contact with the unexposed surface of the ceiling, wall or floor finish.
Exception: All layers of single and multilayer reflective plastic core insulation shall comply with Section 2614.
Insulating materials, where exposed as installed in buildings of any type of construction, shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450.
Exception: Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation complying with the requirements of Section 720.6 shall not be required to meet a flame spread index requirement but shall be required to meet a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
Exposed insulation materials installed on attic floors shall have a critical radiant flux of not less than 0.12 watt per square centimeter when tested in accordance with ASTM E970.
Loose-fill insulation materials that cannot be mounted in the ASTM E84 or UL 723 apparatus without a screen or artificial supports shall comply with the flame spread and smoke-developed limits of Sections 720.2 and 720.3 when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
Exception: Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation shall not be required to meet a flame spread index requirement when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2, provided that such insulation has a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 and complies with the requirements of Section 720.6.
The use of combustible roof insulation not complying with Sections 720.2 and 720.3 shall be permitted in any type of construction provided that insulation is covered with approved roof coverings directly applied thereto.
Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation and self-supported spray-applied cellulosic insulation shall comply with CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1209 and 1404. Each package of such insulating material shall be clearly labeled in accordance with CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1209 and 1404.
Insulation and covering on pipe and tubing shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450.
Exception: Insulation and covering on pipe and tubing installed in plenums shall comply with the International Mechanical Code.
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The provisions of this section contain prescriptive details of fire-resistance-rated building elements, components or assemblies. The materials of construction listed in Tables 721.1(1), 721.1(2) and 721.1(3) shall be assumed to have the fire-resistance ratings prescribed therein. Where materials that change the capacity for heat dissipation are incorporated into a fire-resistance-rated assembly, fire test results or other substantiating data shall be made available to the building official to show that the required fire-resistance-rating time period is not reduced.
| STRUCTURAL PARTS TO BE PROTECTED |
ITEM NUMBER |
INSULATING MATERIAL USED | MINIMUM THICKNESS OF INSULATING MATERIAL FOR THE FOLLOWING FIRE-RESISTANCE PERIODS (inches) |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | 3 hours | 2 hours | 1 hour | |||
| 1. Steel columns and all of primary trusses |
1-1.1
|
Carbonate, lightweight and sand-lightweight aggregate concrete, members 6" × 6" or greater (not including sandstone, granite and siliceous gravel).a |
21/2
|
2
|
11/2
|
1
|
|
1-1.2
|
Carbonate, lightweight and sand-lightweight aggregate concrete, members 8" × 8" or greater (not including sandstone, granite and siliceous gravel).a |
2
|
11/2
|
1
|
1
|
|
|
1-1.3
|
Carbonate, lightweight and sand-lightweight aggregate concrete, members 12" × 12" or greater (not including sandstone, granite and siliceous gravel).a |
11/2
|
1
|
1
|
1
|
|
|
1-1.4
|
Siliceous aggregate concrete and concrete excluded in Item 1-1.1, members 6" × 6" or greater.a |
3
|
2
|
11/2
|
1
|
|
|
1-1.5
|
Siliceous aggregate concrete and concrete excluded in Item 1-1.1, members 8" × 8" or greater.a |
21/2
|
2
|
1
|
1
|
|
|
1-1.6
|
Siliceous aggregate concrete and concrete excluded in Item 1-1.1, members 12" × 12" or greater.a |
2
|
1
|
1
|
1
|
|
|
1-2.1
|
Clay or shale brick with brick and mortar fill.a |
33/4
|
—
|
—
|
21/4
|
|
|
1-3.1
|
4" hollow clay tile in two 2" layers; 1/2" mortar between tile and column; 3/8" metal mesh 0.046" wire diameter in horizontal joints; tile fill.a |
4
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-3.2
|
2" hollow clay tile; 3/4" mortar between tile and column; 3/8" metal mesh 0.046" wire diameter in horizontal joints; limestone concrete filla; plastered with 3/4" gypsum plaster. |
3
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-3.3
|
2" hollow clay tile with outside wire ties 0.08" diameter at each course of tile or 3/8" metal mesh 0.046" diameter wire in horizontal joints; limestone or trap-rock concrete filla extending 1" outside column on all sides. |
—
|
—
|
3
|
—
|
|
|
1-3.4
|
2" hollow clay tile with outside wire ties 0.08" diameter at each course of tile with or without concrete fill; 3/4" mortar between tile and column. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
2
|
|
|
1-4.1
|
Cement plaster over metal lath wire tied to 3/4" cold-rolled vertical channels with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire ties spaced 3" to 6" on center. Plaster mixed 1:2 1/2 by volume, cement to sand. |
—
|
—
|
21/2b
|
7/8
|
|
|
1-5.1
|
Vermiculite concrete, 1:4 mix by volume over paperbacked wire fabric lath wrapped directly around column with additional 2" × 2" 0.065"/0.065" (No. 16/16 B.W. gage) wire fabric placed 3/4" from outer concrete surface. Wire fabric tied with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire spaced 6" on center for inner layer and 2" on center for outer layer. |
2
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-6.1
|
Perlite or vermiculite gypsum plaster over metal lath wrapped around column and furred 11/4" from column flanges. Sheets lapped at ends and tied at 6" intervals with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) tie wire. Plaster pushed through to flanges. |
11/2
|
1
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-6.2
|
Perlite or vermiculite gypsum plaster over self-furring metal lath wrapped directly around column, lapped 1" and tied at 6" intervals with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire. |
13/4
|
13/8
|
1
|
—
|
|
|
1-6.3
|
Perlite or vermiculite gypsum plaster on metal lath applied to 3/4" cold-rolled channels spaced 24" apart vertically and wrapped flatwise around column. |
11/2
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-6.4
|
Perlite or vermiculite gypsum plaster over two layers of 1/2" plain full-length gypsum lath applied tight to column flanges. Lath wrapped with 1" hexagonal mesh of No. 20 gage wire and tied with doubled 0.035" diameter (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire ties spaced 23" on center. For three-coat work, the plaster mix for the second coat shall not exceed 100 pounds of gypsum to 21/2 cubic feet of aggregate for the 3-hour system. |
21/2
|
2
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-6.5
|
Perlite or vermiculite gypsum plaster over one layer of 1/2" plain full-length gypsum lath applied tight to column flanges. Lath tied with doubled 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire ties spaced 23" on center and scratch coat wrapped with 1" hexagonal mesh 0.035" (No. 20 B.W. gage) wire fabric. For three-coat work, the plaster mix for the second coat shall not exceed 100 pounds of gypsum to 21/2 cubic feet of aggregate. |
—
|
2
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-7.1
|
Multiple layers of 1/2" gypsum wallboardc adhesivelyd secured to column flanges and successive layers. Wallboard applied without horizontal joints. Corner edges of each layer staggered. Wallboard layer below outer layer secured to column with doubled 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) steel wire ties spaced 15" on center. Exposed corners taped and treated. |
—
|
—
|
2
|
1
|
|
|
1-7.2
|
Three layers of 5/8" Type X gypsum wallboard.c First and second layer held in place by 1/8" diameter by 13/8" long ring shank nails with 5/16" diameter heads spaced 24" on center at corners. Middle layer also secured with metal straps at mid-height and 18" from each end, and by metal corner bead at each corner held by the metal straps. Third layer attached to corner bead with 1" long gypsum wallboard screws spaced 12" on center. |
—
|
—
|
17/8
|
—
|
|
|
1-7.3
|
Three layers of 5/8" Type X gypsum wallboard,c each layer screw attached to 15/8" steel studs 0.018" thick (No. 25 carbon sheet steel gage) at each corner of column. Middle layer also secured with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) double-strand steel wire ties, 24" on center. Screws are No. 6 by 1" spaced 24" on center for inner layer, No. 6 by 15/8" spaced 12" on center for middle layer and No. 8 by 21/4" spaced 12" on center for outer layer. |
—
|
17/8
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
1-8.1
|
Wood-fibered gypsum plaster mixed 1:1 by weight gypsum-to-sand aggregate applied over metal lath. Lath lapped 1" and tied 6" on center at all end, edges and spacers with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) steel tie wires. Lath applied over 1/2" spacers made of 3/4" furring channel with 2" legs bent around each corner. Spacers located 1" from top and bottom of member and not greater than 40" on center and wire tied with a single strand of 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) steel tie wires. Corner bead tied to the lath at 6" on center along each corner to provide plaster thickness. |
—
|
—
|
15/8
|
—
|
|
|
1-9.1
|
Minimum W8x35 wide flange steel column (w/d ≥ 0.75) with each web cavity filled even with the flange tip with normal weight carbonate or siliceous aggregate concrete (3,000 psi minimum compressive strength with 145 pcf ± 3 pcf unit weight). Reinforce the concrete in each web cavity with a minimum No. 4 deformed reinforcing bar installed vertically and centered in the cavity, and secured to the column web with a minimum No. 2 horizontal deformed reinforcing bar welded to the web every 18" on center vertically. As an alternative to the No. 4 rebar, 3/4" diameter by 3" long headed studs, spaced at 12" on center vertically, shall be welded on each side of the web midway between the column flanges. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
See Note n
|
|
| 2. Webs or flanges of steel beams and girders |
2-1.1
|
Carbonate, lightweight and sand-lightweight aggregate concrete (not including sandstone, granite and siliceous gravel) with 3" or finer metal mesh placed 1" from the finished surface anchored to the top flange and providing not less than 0.025 square inch of steel area per foot in each direction. |
2
|
11/2
|
1
|
1
|
|
2-1.2
|
Siliceous aggregate concrete and concrete excluded in Item 2-1.1 with 3" or finer metal mesh placed 1" from the finished surface anchored to the top flange and providing not less than 0.025 square inch of steel area per foot in each direction. |
21/2
|
2
|
11/2
|
1
|
|
|
2-2.1
|
Cement plaster on metal lath attached to 3/4" cold-rolled channels with 0.04" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire ties spaced 3" to 6" on center. Plaster mixed 1:2 1/2 by volume, cement to sand. |
—
|
—
|
21/2b
|
7/8
|
|
|
2-3.1
|
Vermiculite gypsum plaster on a metal lath cage, wire tied to 0.165" diameter (No. 8 B.W. gage) steel wire hangers wrapped around beam and spaced 16" on center. Metal lath ties spaced approximately 5" on center at cage sides and bottom. |
—
|
7/8
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
2-4.1
|
Two layers of 5/8" Type X gypsum wallboardc are attached to U-shaped brackets spaced 24" on center. 0.018" thick (No. 25 carbon sheet steel gage) 15/8" deep by 1" galvanized steel runner channels are first installed parallel to and on each side of the top beam flange to provide a 1/2" clearance to the flange. The channel runners are attached to steel deck or concrete floor construction with approved fasteners spaced 12" on center. U-shaped brackets are formed from members identical to the channel runners. At the bent portion of the U-shaped bracket, the flanges of the channel are cut out so that 15/8" deep corner channels can be inserted without attachment parallel to each side of the lower flange. |
—
|
—
|
11/4
|
—
|
|
| As an alternative, 0.021" thick (No. 24 carbon sheet steel gage) 1" × 2" runner and corner angles shall be used in lieu of channels, and the web cutouts in the U-shaped brackets shall not be required. Each angle is attached to the bracket with 1/2"-long No. 8 self-drilling screws. The vertical legs of the U-shaped bracket are attached to the runners with one 1/2" long No. 8 self-drilling screw. The completed steel framing provides a 21/8" and 11/2" space between the inner layer of wallboard and the sides and bottom of the steel beam, respectively. The inner layer of wallboard is attached to the top runners and bottom corner channels or corner angles with 11/4"-long No. 6 self-drilling screws spaced 16" on center. The outer layer of wallboard is applied with 13/4"-long No. 6 self-drilling screws spaced 8" on center. The bottom corners are reinforced with metal corner beads. | ||||||
|
2-4.2
|
Three layers of 5/8" Type X gypsum wallboardc attached to a steel suspension system as described immediately above utilizing the 0.018" thick (No. 25 carbon sheet steel gage) 1" × 2" lower corner angles. The framing is located so that a 21/8" and 2" space is provided between the inner layer of wallboard and the sides and bottom of the beam, respectively. The first two layers of wallboard are attached as described immediately above. A layer of 0.035" thick (No. 20 B.W. gage) 1" hexagonal galvanized wire mesh is applied under the soffit of the middle layer and up the sides approximately 2". The mesh is held in position with the No. 6 15/8"-long screws installed in the vertical leg of the bottom corner angles. The outer layer of wallboard is attached with No. 6 21/4"-long screws spaced 8" on center. One screw is installed at the mid-depth of the bracket in each layer. Bottom corners are finished as described above. |
—
|
17/8
|
—
|
—
|
|
| 3. Bonded pretensioned reinforcement in prestressed concretee |
3-1.1
|
Carbonate, lightweight, sand-lightweight and siliceousf aggregate concrete | ||||
|
Beams or girders
|
4g
|
3g
|
21/2
|
11/2
|
||
|
2
|
11/2
|
1
|
||||
| 4. Bonded or unbonded post-tensioned tendons in prestressed concretee, i |
4-1.1
|
Carbonate, lightweight, sand-lightweight and siliceousf aggregate concrete Unrestrained members: |
||||
|
Solid slabsh
|
—
|
2
|
11/2
|
—
|
||
|
Beams and girdersj
|
||||||
|
8" wide
|
41/2
|
21/2
|
13/4
|
|||
|
greater than 12" wide
|
3
|
21/2
|
2
|
11/2
|
||
|
4-1.2
|
Carbonate, lightweight, sand-lightweight and siliceous aggregate Restrained members:k |
|||||
|
Solid slabsh
|
11/4
|
1
|
3/4
|
—
|
||
|
Beams and girdersj
|
||||||
|
8" wide
|
21/2
|
2
|
13/4
|
—
|
||
|
greater than 12" wide
|
2
|
13/4
|
11/2
|
—
|
||
| 5. Reinforcing steel in reinforced concrete columns, beams girders and trusses |
5-1.1
|
Carbonate, lightweight and sand-lightweight aggregate concrete, members 12" or larger, square or round. (Size limit does not apply to beams and girders monolithic with floors.) |
11/2
|
11/2
|
11/2
|
11/2
|
| Siliceous aggregate concrete, members 12" or larger, square or round. (Size limit does not apply to beams and girders monolithic with floors.) |
2
|
11/2
|
11/2
|
11/2
|
||
| 6. Reinforcing steel in reinforced concrete joistsl |
6-1.1
|
Carbonate, lightweight and sand-lightweight aggregate concrete |
11/4
|
11/4
|
1
|
3/4
|
|
6-1.2
|
Siliceous aggregate concrete |
13/4
|
11/2
|
1
|
3/4
|
|
| 7. Reinforcing and tie rods in floor and roof slabsl |
7-1.1
|
Carbonate, lightweight and sand-lightweight aggregate concrete |
1
|
1
|
3/4
|
3/4
|
|
7-1.2
|
Siliceous aggregate concrete |
11/4
|
1
|
1
|
3/4
|
|
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square inch = 645.2 mm2, 1 cubic foot = 0.0283 m3, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3.
- Reentrant parts of protected members to be filled solidly.
- Two layers of equal thickness with a 3/4-inch airspace between.
- For all of the construction with gypsum wallboard described in Table 721.1(1), gypsum base for veneer plaster of the same size, thickness and core type shall be permitted to be substituted for gypsum wallboard, provided that attachment is identical to that specified for the wallboard and the joints on the face layer are reinforced, and the entire surface is covered with not less than 1/16-inch gypsum veneer plaster.
- An approved adhesive qualified under ASTM E119 or UL 263.
- Where lightweight or sand-lightweight concrete having an oven-dry weight of 110 pounds per cubic foot or less is used, the tabulated minimum cover shall be permitted to be reduced 25 percent, except that the reduced cover shall be not less than 3/4 inch in slabs or 11/2 inches in beams or girders.
- For solid slabs of siliceous aggregate concrete, increase tendon cover 20 percent.
- Adequate provisions against spalling shall be provided by U-shaped or hooped stirrups spaced not to exceed the depth of the member with a clear cover of 1 inch.
- Prestressed slabs shall have a thickness not less than that required in Table 721.1(3) for the respective fire-resistance time period.
- Fire coverage and end anchorages shall be as follows: Cover to the prestressing steel at the anchor shall be 1/2 inch greater than that required away from the anchor. Minimum cover to steel-bearing plate shall be 1 inch in beams and 3/4 inch in slabs.
- For beam widths between 8 inches and 12 inches, cover thickness shall be permitted to be determined by interpolation.
- Interior spans of continuous slabs, beams and girders shall be permitted to be considered restrained.
- For use with concrete slabs having a comparable fire endurance where members are framed into the structure in such a manner as to provide equivalent performance to that of monolithic concrete construction.
- Generic fire-resistance ratings (those not designated as PROPRIETARY* in the listing) in GA 600 shall be accepted as if herein listed.
- Additional insulating material is not required on the exposed outside face of the column flange to achieve a 1-hour fire-resistance rating.
| MATERIAL | ITEM NUMBER |
CONSTRUCTION | MINIMUM FINISHED THICKNESS FACE-TO-FACEb (inches) | |||
| 4 hours | 3 hours | 2 hours | 1 hour | |||
| 1. Brick of clay or shale |
1-1.1
|
Solid brick of clay or shalec. |
6
|
4.9
|
3.8
|
2.7
|
|
1-1.2
|
Hollow brick, not filled. |
5.0
|
4.3
|
3.4
|
2.3
|
|
|
1-1.3
|
Hollow brick unit wall, grout or filled with perlite vermiculite or expanded shale aggregate. |
6.6
|
5.5
|
4.4
|
3.0
|
|
|
1-2.1
|
4" nominal thick units not less than 75 percent solid backed with a hat-shaped metal furring channel 3/4" thick formed from 0.021" sheet metal attached to the brick wall on 24" centers with approved fasteners, and 1/2" Type X gypsum wallboard attached to the metal furring strips with 1"-long Type S screws spaced 8" on center. |
—
|
—
|
5d
|
—
|
|
| 2. Combination of clay brick and load-bearing hollow clay tile |
2-1.1
|
4" solid brick and 4" tile (not less than 40 percent solid). |
—
|
8
|
—
|
—
|
|
2-1.2
|
4" solid brick and 8" tile (not less than 40 percent solid). |
12
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
|
| 3. Concrete masonry units |
3-1.1f, g
|
Expanded slag or pumice. |
4.7
|
4.0
|
3.2
|
2.1
|
|
3-1.2f, g
|
Expanded clay, shale or slate. |
5.1
|
4.4
|
3.6
|
2.6
|
|
|
3-1.3f
|
Limestone, cinders or air-cooled slag. |
5.9
|
5.0
|
4.0
|
2.7
|
|
|
3-1.4f, g
|
Calcareous or siliceous gravel. |
6.2
|
5.3
|
4.2
|
2.8
|
|
| 4. Solid concreteh, i |
4-1.1
|
Siliceous aggregate concrete. |
7.0
|
6.2
|
5.0
|
3.5
|
| Carbonate aggregate concrete. |
6.6
|
5.7
|
4.6
|
3.2
|
||
| Sand-lightweight concrete. |
5.4
|
4.6
|
3.8
|
2.7
|
||
| Lightweight concrete. |
5.1
|
4.4
|
3.6
|
2.5
|
||
| 5. Glazed or unglazed facing tile, nonload-bearing |
5-1.1
|
One 2" unit cored 15 percent maximum and one 4" unit cored 25 percent maximum with 3/4" mortar-filled collar joint. Unit positions reversed in alternate courses. |
—
|
63/8
|
—
|
—
|
|
5-1.2
|
One 2" unit cored 15 percent maximum and one 4" unit cored 40 percent maximum with 3/4" mortar-filled collar joint. Unit positions side with 3/4" gypsum plaster. Two wythes tied together every fourth course with No. 22 gage corrugated metal ties. |
—
|
63/4
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
5-1.3
|
One unit with three cells in wall thickness, cored 29 percent maximum. |
—
|
—
|
6
|
—
|
|
|
5-1.4
|
One 2" unit cored 22 percent maximum and one 4" unit cored 41 percent maximum with 1/4" mortar-filled collar joint. Two wythes tied together every third course with 0.030" (No. 22 galvanized sheet steel gage) corrugated metal ties. |
—
|
—
|
6
|
—
|
|
|
5-1.5
|
One 4" unit cored 25 percent maximum with 3/4" gypsum plaster on one side. |
—
|
—
|
43/4
|
—
|
|
|
5-1.6
|
One 4" unit with two cells in wall thickness, cored 22 percent maximum. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
4
|
|
|
5-1.7
|
One 4" unit cored 30 percent maximum with 3/4" vermiculite gypsum plaster on one side. |
—
|
—
|
41/2
|
—
|
|
|
5-1.8
|
One 4" unit cored 39 percent maximum with 3/4" gypsum plaster on one side. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
41/2
|
|
| 6. Solid gypsum plaster |
6-1.1
|
3/4" by 0.055" (No. 16 carbon sheet steel gage) vertical cold-rolled channels, 16" on center with 2.6-pound flat metal lath applied to one face and tied with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire at 6" spacing. Gypsum plaster each side mixed 1:2 by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
2d
|
|
6-1.2
|
3/4" by 0.05" (No. 16 carbon sheet steel gage) cold-rolled channels 16" on center with metal lath applied to one face and tied with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire at 6" spacing. Perlite or vermiculite gypsum plaster each side. For three-coat work, the plaster mix for the second coat shall not exceed 100 pounds of gypsum to 21/2 cubic feet of aggregate for the 1-hour system. |
—
|
—
|
21/2d
|
2d
|
|
|
6-1.3
|
3/4" by 0.055" (No. 16 carbon sheet steel gage) vertical cold-rolled channels, 16" on center with 3/8" gypsum lath applied to one face and attached with sheet metal clips. Gypsum plaster each side mixed 1:2 by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
2d
|
|
|
6-2.1
|
Studless with 1/2" full-length plain gypsum lath and gypsum plaster each side. Plaster mixed 1:1 for scratch coat and 1:2 for brown coat, by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
2d
|
|
|
6-2.2
|
Studless with 1/2" full-length plain gypsum lath and perlite or vermiculite gypsum plaster each side. |
—
|
—
|
21/2d
|
2d
|
|
|
6-2.3
|
Studless partition with 3/8" rib metal lath installed vertically adjacent edges tied 6" on center with No. 18 gage wire ties, gypsum plaster each side mixed 1:2 by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
2d
|
|
| 7. Solid perlite and Portland cement |
7-1.1
|
Perlite mixed in the ratio of 3 cubic feet to 100 pounds of Portland cement and machine applied to stud side of 11/2" mesh by 0.058-inch (No. 17 B.W. gage) paper-backed woven wire fabric lath wire-tied to 4"-deep steel trussed wirej studs 16" on center. Wire ties of 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) galvanized steel wire 6" on center vertically. |
—
|
—
|
31/8d
|
—
|
| 8. Solid neat wood fibered gypsum plaster |
8-1.1
|
3/4" by 0.055-inch (No. 16 carbon sheet steel gage) cold-rolled channels, 12" on center with 2.5-pound flat metal lath applied to one face and tied with 0.049" (No. 18 B.W. gage) wire at 6" spacing. Neat gypsum plaster applied each side. |
—
|
—
|
2d
|
—
|
| 9. Solid wallboard partition |
9-1.1
|
One full-length layer 1/2" Type X gypsum wallboarde laminated to each side of 1" full-length V-edge gypsum coreboard with approved laminating compound. Vertical joints of face layer and coreboard staggered not less than 3". |
—
|
—
|
2d
|
—
|
| 10. Hollow (studless) gypsum wallboard partition |
10-1.1
|
One full-length layer of 5/8" Type X gypsum wallboarde attached to both sides of wood or metal top and bottom runners laminated to each side of 1" × 6" full-length gypsum coreboard ribs spaced 2" on center with approved laminating compound. Ribs centered at vertical joints of face plies and joints staggered 24" in opposing faces. Ribs may be recessed 6" from the top and bottom. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
21/4d
|
|
10-1.2
|
1" regular gypsum V-edge full-length backing board attached to both sides of wood or metal top and bottom runners with nails or 15/8" drywall screws at 24" on center. Minimum width of runners 15/8". Face layer of 1/2" regular full-length gypsum wallboard laminated to outer faces of backing board with approved laminating compound. |
—
|
—
|
45/8d
|
—
|
|
| 11. Noncombustible studs—interior partition with plaster each side |
11-1.1
|
31/4" × 0.044" (No. 18 carbon sheet steel gage) steel studs spaced 24" on center. 5/8" gypsum plaster on metal lath each side mixed 1:2 by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
43/4d
|
|
11-1.2
|
33/8" × 0.055" (No. 16 carbon sheet steel gage) approved nailablek studs spaced 24" on center. 5/8" neat gypsum wood-fibered plaster each side over 3/8" rib metal lath nailed to studs with 6d common nails, 8" on center. Nails driven 11/4" and bent over. |
—
|
—
|
55/8
|
—
|
|
|
11-1.3
|
4" × 0.044" (No. 18 carbon sheet steel gage) channel-shaped steel studs at 16" on center. On each side approved resilient clips pressed onto stud flange at 16" vertical spacing, 1/4" pencil rods snapped into or wire tied onto outer loop of clips, metal lath wire-tied to pencil rods at 6" intervals, 1" perlite gypsum plaster, each side. |
—
|
75/8d
|
—
|
—
|
|
|
11-1.4
|
21/2" × 0.044" (No. 18 carbon sheet steel gage) steel studs spaced 16" on center. Wood fibered gypsum plaster mixed 1:1 by weight gypsum to sand aggregate applied on 3/4-pound metal lath wire tied to studs, each side. 3/4" plaster applied over each face, including finish coat. |
—
|
—
|
41/4d
|
—
|
|
| 12. Wood studs—interior partition with plaster each side |
12-1.1l, m
|
2" × 4" wood studs 16" on center with 5/8" gypsum plaster on metal lath. Lath attached by 4d common nails bent over or No. 14 gage by 11/4" by 3/4" crown width staples spaced 6" on center. Plaster mixed 1:11/2 for scratch coat and 1:3 for brown coat, by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
51/8
|
|
12-1.2l
|
2" × 4" wood studs 16" on center with metal lath and 7/8" neat wood-fibered gypsum plaster each side. Lath attached by 6d common nails, 7" on center. Nails driven 11/4" and bent over. |
—
|
—
|
51/2d
|
—
|
|
|
12-1.3l
|
2" × 4" wood studs 16" on center with 3/8" perforated or plain gypsum lath and 1/2" gypsum plaster each side. Lath nailed with 11/8" by No. 13 gage by 19/64" head plasterboard blued nails, 4" on center. Plaster mixed 1:2 by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
51/4
|
|
|
12-1.4l
|
2" × 4" wood studs 16" on center with 3/8" Type X gypsum lath and 1/2" gypsum plaster each side. Lath nailed with 11/8" by No. 13 gage by 19/64" head plasterboard blued nails, 5" on center. Plaster mixed 1:2 by weight, gypsum to sand aggregate. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
51/4
|
|
| 13. Noncombustible studs—interior partition with gypsum wallboard each side |
13-1.1
|
0.018" (No. 25 carbon sheet steel gage) channel-shaped studs 24" on center with one full-length layer of 5/8" Type X gypsum wallboarde applied vertically attached with 1"-long No. 6 drywall screws to each stud. Screws are 8" on center around the perimeter and 12" on center on the intermediate stud. Where applied horizontally, the Type X gypsum wallboard shall be attached to 35/8" studs and the horizontal joints shall be staggered with those on the opposite side. Screws for the horizontal application shall be 8" on center at vertical edges and 12" on center at intermediate studs. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
27/8d
|
|
13-1.2
|
0.018" (No. 25 carbon sheet steel gage) channel-shaped studs 25" on center with two full-length layers of 1/2" Type X gypsum wallboarde applied vertically each side. First layer attached with 1"-long, No. 6 drywall screws, 8" on center around the perimeter and 12" on center on the intermediate stud. Second layer applied with vertical joints offset one stud space from first layer using 15/8" long, No. 6 drywall screws spaced 9" on center along vertical joints, 12" on center at intermediate studs and 24" on center along top and bottom runners. |
—
|
—
|
35/8d
|
—
|
|
|
13-1.3
|
0.055" (No. 16 carbon sheet steel gage) approved nailable metal studse 24" on center with full-length 5/8" Type X gypsum wallboarde applied vertically and nailed 7" on center with 6d cement-coated common nails. Approved metal fastener grips used with nails at vertical butt joints along studs. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
47/8
|
|
| 14. Wood studs—interior partition with gypsum wallboard each side |
14-1.1h, m
|
2" × 4" wood studs 16" on center with two layers of 3/8" regular gypsum wallboarde each side, 4d coolern or wallboardn nails at 8" on center first layer, 5d coolern or wallboardn nails at 8" on center second layer with laminating compound between layers, joints staggered. First layer applied full length vertically, second layer applied horizontally or vertically. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
5
|
|
14-1.2l, m
|
2" × 4" wood studs 16" on center with two layers 1/2" regular gypsum wallboarde applied vertically or horizontally each sidek, joints staggered. Nail base layer with 5d coolern or wallboardn nails at 8" on center face layer with 8d coolern or wallboardn nails at 8" on center. |
—
|
—
|
—
|
51/2
|
|
|
14-1.3l, | ||||||