Rigorous testing requirements for firestopping materials have helped America’s commercial buildings achieve an impressive life safety record. Today’s U.S. building codes require that firestopping materials be tested to ASTM E2307 Standard Test Method for Determining Fire Resistance of Perimeter Fire Barriers Using Intermediate-Scale, Multi-story Test Apparatus.
In the absence of standardized fire testing, unfortunate consequences can arise. In the U.S., we’ve started to see a relaxed attitude toward firestopping in general. Over the past five years or so, fabricated panels containing mineral wool not tested in accordance with ASTM E2307 have been imported and installed for firestopping purposes. Typically installed in prefabricated curtain wall systems as a firestopping material, mineral wool insulation that is not tested to ASTM E2307 is not only in violation of U.S. building codes, but also presents a threat to the safety of building occupants. As the practice of installing firestopping materials not tested to ASTM E2307 has become more prevalent, some manufacturers are urging listing organizations to accept a smaller-scale, less rigorous test.