Fire-resistant coatings are a fundamental component of modern building safety, mandated by codes such as the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Fire Code (IFC). Their primary function is to protect materials from rapid failure in a fire, providing crucial time for occupant evacuation and firefighter response.
The application of these coatings is not optional but a strict requirement for compliance in numerous scenarios, governed by the specific material and its intended use. In this blog, we will inform you about the major industries where fire-resistant coatings are mandated by code. This includes structural steel in commercial buildings, transportation systems, and critical infrastructure in the oil, gas, and electrical sectors.
Where Fire-Resistant Coatings Are Required
Fire-resistant coatings are used in the following areas mandated by codes and compliance:
Building Construction
In building construction, the use of fire-resistant coatings is extensive. For structural elements like beams and columns, intumescent paint is specified in steel building regulations to achieve a mandated fire-resistance rating, thereby delaying structural collapse. Similarly, coatings are applied to concrete and wood assemblies.
For interior finishes, fire-retardant paint building regulations come into effect when materials, such as certain woods or plastics, have a flame spread index that exceeds the code allowances. These approved coatings reduce flame spread to meet safety standards. Furthermore, ventilation and ductwork systems require specialized spray-on fire-resistant coatings to prevent fire from spreading through a building’s airways.
Transportation Industry
The transportation sector relies on fire-resistant coatings to protect passengers and critical assets. They are applied within the engine compartments, on bulkheads, and around fuel tanks in ships, aircraft, and mass transit vehicles. This application safeguards essential systems from extreme heat and flames, enhancing overall fire safety during operation.
Oil and Gas Industry
The environments of the oil & gas industry require strong fire protection. Fire-resistant coatings are mandatory for structural elements on offshore platforms, refineries, and large-scale storage tanks. These coatings provide vital thermal insulation to prevent catastrophic failure of pipelines and vessels during a fire, offering both fire and corrosion resistance.
Electrical Equipment
Electrical infrastructure is a very common source of fire ignition. To reduce this risk, fire-retardant paint building regulations and standards often require the application of fire-resistant coatings to cable trays, transformers, and switchgear. This helps contain electrical fires, preventing them from escalating and damaging critical equipment.
Ensuring Codes and Compliance for Fire-Resistant Coatings
Simply applying a coating isn’t enough. Full compliance with fire-retardant paint building regulations requires that products be tested to specific standards, such as ASTM E-119 (structural fire resistance) or ASTM E-84 (surface burning characteristics). The correct coating must be chosen based on the substrate, whether it’s steel, wood, or concrete.
Crucially, the application and long-term maintenance must follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the rating is valid. Always consult your local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) to confirm specific code requirements for your project, as they have the final say on intumescent paint for steel building regulations and other applications.
A Note on Existing Buildings (From the ICC)
The International Code Council (ICC) provides a vital provision for existing buildings. If a surface’s flame spread index exceeds the current limit, it can be treated with an approved fire-retardant coating to achieve compliance. This coating must have been tested on the same specific substrate, and its performance must be maintained as per the manufacturer’s instructions, highlighting the ongoing duty of care for property managers.
Conclusion
Fire-resistant coatings are a non-negotiable safety requirement mandated by building and fire codes. Their critical application on structural steel, interior finishes, and within major industries protects assets and, most importantly, lives by delaying structural failure and containing flames.
The products from Firefree Coatings are tested by independent laboratories (IAS, ICC-ES, FM Approvals) and meet recognized standards such as ASTM E119 and ASTM E84. This independent verification ensures our coatings perform as required. Contact Us Today!