|
Are there any code requirements, or restrictions, to using spray-applied cementitious fireproofing on a steel structure in the space above the ceiling of a building when it is being used as a return air plenum?
Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
6 Comments
Alex
8/29/2022 05:30:48 am
Hi,
Ralph Giro
8/29/2022 09:58:58 am
I would be shocked that the EOR or Building Dept. would approve that the space above a ceiling be used as as a return air plenum. The environmental and health issues are so many. Start with insect & rodent feces.
Todd E Wyatt
8/29/2022 12:16:46 pm
Spray Applied Fireproofing (SFRM) increases the fire-resistive rating (FRR) of non-combustible building components including the primary structure. This is typically added to meet the building's Type of Construction requirements.
John Dalton
9/6/2022 08:07:26 am
I would make sure that the product is not a fiber-based product but always use cementitious fireproofing wherever there is a chance of air-movement across the surface.
Matthew Benson
11/9/2025 02:48:22 pm
There should be no fiberous fireproofing onstalled exsposed in any plenum that is accessable for future work. Paint or wrapped in drywall should be sufficient. Cementainpus fireproofing will kill and caise more problems than a fire its self
Matthew R Benson
5/3/2026 11:56:52 am
sfrm listed for concealed use is not allowed exsposed in false cieling plenums aka drop tile. terminology is key. if it requires a respirator to install it and there is a multi atory building with foot traffic above it or serviceable equipment installed in the plenum then you should not be able to disturb it. if your working and can touch see or damage certain types of sfrm then its probably wrong application. Im currently arguing about a type that you are required to wear respirators full protective clothing glasses rubber gloves and wash your clothes seperatley and your hands before eating even if you wore gloves. Also if it gets into the sewer drainage or storm water you need to report it imediatley. it listed for concealed use.And people say its ok in a plenum exsposed to the air stream because it passed a labratory test. its a multi story building with sevicable equipment above the false cieling. every time you go in that space you need to be protected and every individual sitting in class needs a respirator. the dust particles you cant see are the ones that will effect you the most. Common sense tells me if it cant be in sewer water it should not be in your air system no matter what.Even exhaust would be releasing it to the enviroment. And i think anyone who says otherwise should have a bag of that stuff sitting next to them at work with a light fan blowing on them all day to prove it wrong. Its easy to argue a situation they are not in or working around. Saving dollars taking lives. bad part is most of it is in a sprinklered building with non combustible construction. The fireproofing will cause more problems to human life than a fire would. With the rise of birth deffects and reproductive complications the people making decissions need to listen to the people they are effecting. Leave a Reply. |
ALL-ACCESS
SUBSCRIBESubscribe and learn something new each day:
COMMUNITYTop May '26 Contributors
YOUR POSTPE EXAMGet 100 Days of Free Sample Questions right to you!
FILTERS
All
ARCHIVES
June 2026
PE PREP SERIES |
RSS Feed
