Interpretation #7318
Published March 31, 2014
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2010
- Code
- RESIDENT
- Code Description
- Residential
- Chapter
- 3
- Section
- R302.11 (4)
- Topic
- Foam Material for Fireblocking-Penetrations
Question
Is it the intent of R302.11 (4) to use any foam material not rated to prevent fire spread, or does it only need to resist passage of flame?
Answer Published 03/31/2014 at 6:51 PM
No
Commentary
The key to the section is the the words "an approved
material", which is intended to block the "free" passage
of flame and products of combustion. The section referenced
addresses fireblocking in combustible construction. The
material does need to resist the free passage of flame as
well as smoke and other products of combustion. This is not
a "firestop" as would be found in rated construction, but,
merely a way of slowing the spread of fire and permitting
the flame and products of combustion from communicating
freely with other areas. A product acceptable to the
designer and the AHJ should be specified on the plans and
used for the purpose.
The product would be required to provide performance
equivalent to any of the seven items listed in Section
R302.11.1.