Understanding International Build Code (IBC) Requirements for Flame Spread Testing

When it comes to building the safest structures possible, manufacturers and builders alike are already very familiar with the International Building Code (IBC). 

The International Building Code is a comprehensive set of regulations that govern the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings across the United States. Developed by the International Code Council (ICC), the IBC is widely adopted by state and local jurisdictions to ensure buildings meet essential safety standards. 

The IBC’s purpose is to safeguard public health, safety, and general welfare by creating standards for different aspects of construction, including structural integrity, fire safety, and accessibility. 

IBC outlines several fire safety standards, one being flame spread testing or surface spread of flame testing. This testing measures how quickly flames spread across the surface of a material, which is critical in assessing the potential fire hazard of building materials.

The results of these tests help determine the appropriate use of materials within a building's design, especially in areas where fire resistance is very important, such as corridors, exits, and high-occupancy spaces. 

The IBC also sets specific requirements for flame spread ratings to make sure that only materials that meet these standards are used in construction. This process helps minimize the risk of rapid fire spread, providing occupants more time to evacuate and first responders more time to control a growing fire.

Overview of Flame Spread Testing

A flame spread test measures how quickly a flame moves across a material’s surface. It determines the material's flammability and overall surface burning behavior, such as how far the flame spreads once ignited. 

Depending on the types of materials being tested, certain factors will impact how a flame spreads, such as density, moisture content, surface emissivity and temperature at ignition, and overall thermal conductivity. 

There are two important flame spread tests: ASTM E84 (Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials) and UL 723 (Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials). These tests are similar but have been published by two different organizations. NGC Testing Services is accredited according to both ASTM E84 and UL 723 flame spread tests. 

Both ASTM E84 and UL 723 are conducted by placing a 24” wide by 24’ long sample into a Steiner Tunnel. The test is administered using two burners, which provide 89kW of energy. 

Recently, the IBC has added new test and performance requirements for wood and wood-based structures in regard to fire-retardant-treated wood. To remain compliant, it’s essential to understand and follow these new requirements. 

Updated IBC Requirements for Flame Spread Testing

New Performance Requirements

The 2021 International Building Code recently updated the fire testing requirements for wood structural panels in Section 2303.2.3 (renumbered to Section 2303.2.4 in the new 2024 IBC). It now mandates that these panels be tested with a 1/8-inch longitudinal gap. 

However, the current ASTM E84 standard does not yet include mounting methods that align with this new requirement. The ASTM committee, which involves various building industry representatives, is currently working to standardize these mounting methods.

Updated Test Requirements

As one of the most common test methods in the building industry, ASTM E84 is used to determine the flame spread index and smoke developed index of building materials. The test method measures the relative burning behavior of materials by observing the flame spread and smoke development compared against two control materials. 

The 2024 IBC has added a new Section 2303.2.1, which permits ASTM E2768 to be used as an alternate test method. ASTM E2768 is the extended duration surface burning characteristics test, often nicknamed an “extended ASTM E84” test. 

Unlike the 10-minute test duration in ASTM E84, testing in ASTM E2768 extends the total testing time to 30 minutes. Both tests are commonly applied to fire-retardant materials, foam plastics, interior finishes, paints, and plastics.

New Compliance Requirements

With such substantial changes made to this code, manufacturers must comply with Chapter 23 of the 2021 and 2024 IBC, which includes conducting testing according to these changes and additions. 

Since the mounting methods are still being worked through at this time, it’s vital for manufacturers to proactively reach out to their third-party partners, like NGC Testing Services, to make sure that future flame spread testing will continue to satisfy these code requirements and updated standard requirements to avoid extraneous testing or retesting in the future.

Importance of Compliance With IBC Flame Spread Requirements

There are quite a few factors that highlight just how essential compliance with these new IBC flame spread requirements is for manufacturers. 

For one, complying with these requirements is essential for ensuring the safety of both building occupants and property. These regulations have been carefully designed to minimize the spread of fire within buildings, offering critical protection in the event of a fire. 

By following these standards, builders and property owners can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related injuries, fatalities, and property damage, safeguarding the lives of those within the building and the investments made in the structure. 

From a legal and financial standpoint, the implications of non-compliance with International Building Code flame spread requirements can be severe. Buildings that do not meet these standards may face hefty fines, legal actions, and even forced closures, which can be financially devastating. 

Insurance companies may also deny coverage or impose higher premiums on non-compliant properties, exposing owners to hefty liabilities in the event of a fire. Ensuring compliance with IBC regulations is critical in avoiding these costly penalties and protecting financial interests.

Plus, adhering to IBC flame spread requirements can also offer a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Builders and materials that meet or exceed these standards are often viewed more favorably by potential clients, prioritizing safety and reliability in their purchasing decisions. 

Compliance enhances a company’s reputation and positions it as a leader in the industry, attracting clients who value quality and peace of mind. By committing to these standards, businesses can differentiate themselves, building trust and credibility with their customers while contributing to a safer building environment.

Stay Up-to-Date on Industry Updates & Testing Standards Changes

Ensuring safety and compliance with the IBC through flame spread testing is crucial in preventing building fire hazards. By requiring rigorous testing and compliance with flame spread ratings, the IBC helps mitigate the risk of catastrophic fires, which can lead to significant loss of life and property. 

Flame spread testing provides critical data that informs the safe selection and application of materials, ensuring that buildings are compliant with the code and equipped to withstand potential fire incidents.

Work with a partner who will make sure you stay up-to-date on all the latest changes to standards in the industry. Find out how NGC Testing Services can help with your fire testing.