FSC FSC Testing & Certification Standards

Question 1

Which ASTM standard describes the standard test method for evaluating the fire performance of through-penetration firestop systems in the US?

Accepted Answer

ASTM E814 (UL 1479)

Answer

ASTM E119 (UL 263)

Answer

ASTM E84 (UL 723)

Answer

ASTM E136 (UL 2200)

Question 2

What is the difference between ASTM E814 and ASTM E119 as they apply to fire stopping certification?

Accepted Answer

ASTM E814 tests firestop systems at penetrations; ASTM E119 tests the fire resistance of the host assembly itself (walls, floors, beams)

Answer

ASTM E814 is for residential construction; ASTM E119 is for commercial construction

Answer

ASTM E814 applies only to plastic pipe penetrations; ASTM E119 applies to all other penetrations

Answer

Both standards test the same performance criteria and are interchangeable

Question 3

What does it mean for a firestop product to be 'listed' by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) such as UL, FM, or Intertek?

Accepted Answer

The product has been tested to a specific standard and meets minimum performance criteria, and the manufacturer's production is periodically audited for ongoing compliance

Answer

The product has been recommended by a majority of fire stopping contractors nationwide

Answer

The product is listed in the manufacturer's catalog and available for purchase

Answer

The product has been used on at least 10 certified projects without failure

Question 4

During a fire test under ASTM E814, what constitutes a failure of the F-rating?

Accepted Answer

Flame or hot gases pass through the firestop system to the unexposed side before the rated time period expires

Answer

The firestop material loses adhesion to the substrate before the rated time period expires

Answer

The firestop assembly reaches a surface temperature of 250°F before the rated time period expires

Answer

The test specimen shows visible cracking on the exposed face before the rated time period expires

Question 5

Which certification body offers the FSC (Firestop Systems Certified) credential recognized across the US firestop industry?

Accepted Answer

The Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA) and the International Firestop Council (IFC) support various certification programs including FSC through recognized bodies

Answer

The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Answer

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) directly issues contractor certifications

Answer

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Question 6

What is the purpose of a 'hose stream test' performed after the fire exposure in an ASTM E814 evaluation?

Accepted Answer

To simulate the impact of firefighting water streams and verify the firestop system maintains structural integrity under water pressure after fire exposure

Answer

To test whether the firestop material repels water during normal building operations

Answer

To clean the test specimen after the fire test is complete

Answer

To measure water absorption of the firestop product under ambient conditions