SPECIAL INSPECTION OF FIRESTOP
No major construction project can be completed without passing multiple inspections, and one of those inspections will cover firestop. Failing a firestop inspection can impact the project schedule.
Does your Firestop Special Inspection Firm conform with the ICC Best Practices? These videos will explain the responsibility of the architect and the building official and a way to see if your special inspection firm meets the best practice.
There are also times when remediation may require significant changes if the trades have not properly collaborated. One example, if the drywaller did not know a 12”x16” duct location, then they might not have framed out an opening for it. As a consequence, the mechanical contractor ran the duct through the rated wall. This means that the firestop contractor likely can not comply with the submitted UL listed assembly – which requires that the opening to be framed out in order to be firestopped properly.
Having an inspector who not only knows this, but also informs the team during the pre-construction meeting of the potential pit-falls is crucial to your project’s success.
The architect and the building official are both responsible for verifying that the special inspector has a body of knowledge related to firestop that they are qualified and capable. Here are some videos that explain the ICC recommended best practice for architects and for building officials. Here is information about a test that can be required if you wish. If you would like a document that can help you verify if the individual is capable and qualified, email me and we will send you just what you need; because even if you don’t bring us on to your team, we still want you to be sure whoever you have, is doing it right.
Here are a few things to think about. Did your last special inspector review the project submittals? Do they have the submittals on site when they do the inspection? Do they provide you with detailed reports identifying what element of the UL listed assembly is non-compliant? Do they include the penetration count in their reports so they are quantifying their activity? There are a few hints that they may be creating a liability for your project and not following ASTM E2174 or ASTM E2393.
Our focus on everything we do:
- Save lives, in the event of a fire
- Protect first-responders while doing their job
- Protect the building
- Protect the building inventory
- Meet or exceed all codes, standards, and specifications related to firestop
- Mitigate liability for the building owner, the contractor, and all involved trades.
HLS Consulting’s inspection services include:
- Review of plans, specifications, project submittals that will impact firestop installations
- Conduct pre-construction meetings that will drive the collaboration of your team
- Inspection of through penetration firestop according to the ASTM E 2174 Standard Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Fire Stops
- Inspection of Construction Rated Joints according to the ASTM E 2393 Standard Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Fire Resistive Joint Systems
- Inspection of Perimeter Containment Firestop according to the ASTM E 2393 Standard Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Fire Resistive Joint Systems and Perimeter Fire Barriers
Additional Inspection Services
- Fire Barrier review during tenant changes for residential or office spaces
- Inspection before purchasing a building. This will in many cases allow you to demand a lower cost because of the expense of bringing the building up to current codes
- Hospitals benefit from assistance with maintaining their SOC for JCAHO
- Hospitals can also benefit from our reviewing the facility prior to JCAHO inspection to ensure there are no surprises related to firestop
Phone: 201-250-4193
Email: info@halpertlifesafety.com
We are dedicated to improving the level of life safety of any project.