STENCILS ON FIRE RATED WALLS
Does your project call out labeling your fire rated walls? Did you know this is a code requirement? Here is what the 2021 IBC says
703.5 Marking and Identification
Where there is an accessible concealed floor, floor ceiling or attic space, fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and smoke partitions or any other wall required to have protected openings or penetrations shall be effectively and permanently identified with signs or stenciling in the concealed space.
- Be located within 15 feet of the end of each wall and at intervals not exceeding 30 feet measured horizontally along the wall or partition
- Include lettering not less than 3 inches in height with a minimum 38 inch stroke in a contrasting color incorporating the suggested wording “fire and or smoke barrier – protect all openings”, or other wording
This week I will share my thoughts on this and I hope you will let me know what you think as well.
Note: This code section has changed through the years but it has been a code requirement since the 2009 IBC from what I can see.
