Firestop systems have become essential components in saving lives and minimizing property damage during a fire. Because the installation of a firestop system is a very exacting, zero-tolerance process, it is imperative that the post-installation inspection of a firestop system also be exacting. Two ASTM International standards developed by ASTM Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings are now important components in the accurate inspection of firestop systems.
The first of the two standards, E 2174, Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Fire Stops, was first approved in 2001. The purpose of this practice is to establish procedures to inspect penetration firestop systems. The second standard, E 2393, Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Fire Resistive Joint Systems and Perimeter Fire Barriers, was approved in 2004. The purpose of E 2393 is to cover the establishment of procedures to inspect fire-resistive joint systems. Both E 2174 and E 2393 include methods for field verification and inspection. Both standards are under the jurisdiction of Subcommittee E06.21 on Serviceability.
Interested parties are invited to participate in ongoing revisions of both E 2174 and E 2393. Visit www.astm.org for more information.
