FSC FSC Testing & Certification Standards 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which ASTM standard describes the standard test method for evaluating the fire performance of through-penetration firestop systems in the US?
- ASTM E814 (UL 1479) (Correct answer)
- ASTM E119 (UL 263)
- ASTM E84 (UL 723)
- ASTM E136 (UL 2200)
Correct answer: ASTM E814 (UL 1479)
ASTM E814, which is equivalent to UL 1479, is the standard test method specifically for through-penetration firestop systems, measuring F-ratings, T-ratings, and W-ratings.
Question 2: What is the difference between ASTM E814 and ASTM E119 as they apply to fire stopping certification?
- ASTM E814 tests firestop systems at penetrations; ASTM E119 tests the fire resistance of the host assembly itself (walls, floors, beams) (Correct answer)
- ASTM E814 is for residential construction; ASTM E119 is for commercial construction
- ASTM E814 applies only to plastic pipe penetrations; ASTM E119 applies to all other penetrations
- Both standards test the same performance criteria and are interchangeable
Correct answer: ASTM E814 tests firestop systems at penetrations; ASTM E119 tests the fire resistance of the host assembly itself (walls, floors, beams)
ASTM E119 establishes the fire-resistance rating of structural elements and assemblies, while ASTM E814 evaluates how well a firestop system restores that rating at a penetration.
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?
- 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 (Correct answer)
- The product has been recommended by a majority of fire stopping contractors nationwide
- The product is listed in the manufacturer's catalog and available for purchase
- The product has been used on at least 10 certified projects without failure
Correct 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
NRTL listing means independent third-party testing and ongoing factory follow-up inspections ensure the product consistently meets the tested performance standard.
Question 4: During a fire test under ASTM E814, what constitutes a failure of the F-rating?
- Flame or hot gases pass through the firestop system to the unexposed side before the rated time period expires (Correct answer)
- The firestop material loses adhesion to the substrate before the rated time period expires
- The firestop assembly reaches a surface temperature of 250°F before the rated time period expires
- The test specimen shows visible cracking on the exposed face before the rated time period expires
Correct answer: Flame or hot gases pass through the firestop system to the unexposed side before the rated time period expires
F-rating failure occurs when flame or hot gases penetrate through the assembly to the unexposed side, compromising the fire compartmentalization barrier.
Question 5: Which certification body offers the FSC (Firestop Systems Certified) credential recognized across the US firestop industry?
- The Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA) and the International Firestop Council (IFC) support various certification programs including FSC through recognized bodies (Correct answer)
- The American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) directly issues contractor certifications
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Correct answer: The Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA) and the International Firestop Council (IFC) support various certification programs including FSC through recognized bodies
Organizations like FCIA and IFC support firestop certification programs, and bodies such as FM Approvals and UL Certification offer FSC or equivalent credentials recognizing installer competency.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a 'hose stream test' performed after the fire exposure in an ASTM E814 evaluation?
- To simulate the impact of firefighting water streams and verify the firestop system maintains structural integrity under water pressure after fire exposure (Correct answer)
- To test whether the firestop material repels water during normal building operations
- To clean the test specimen after the fire test is complete
- To measure water absorption of the firestop product under ambient conditions
Correct answer: To simulate the impact of firefighting water streams and verify the firestop system maintains structural integrity under water pressure after fire exposure
The post-fire hose stream test simulates the mechanical impact and rapid cooling from firefighting operations to ensure the assembly will not collapse or fail when firefighters apply water.
FSC FSC Testing & Certification Standards 1
Which ASTM standard describes the standard test method for evaluating the fire performance of through-penetration firestop systems in the US?