BCAB #1567 - Firestopping of DWV System, Sentence 3.1.9.4.(4)

June 19, 2002

BCAB #1567

Re: Firestopping of DWV System, Sentence 3.1.9.4.(4)

Project Description

The project in question is a new 100 unit seniors housing project. It is proposed to use ProSet P-90 firestop pipe where the trap arms project off the stacks through the gypsum board membrane of the fire separation walls.

Reason for Appeal

Sentence 3.1.9.4.(3) states that "Except as permitted by Sentences (4) to (6), combustible piping shall not be used in a drain, waste and vent piping system if any part of that system penetrates ... a membrane that forms part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating." Sentence (4) permits combustible DWV pipe to penetrate a membrane forming part of a fire separation provided "the piping is sealed at the penetration by a fire stop system that has an F rating not less than the fire-resistance rating required for the fire separation when subjected to the fire test method in CAN4-S115-M, "Standard Method of Fire Tests of Firestop Systems ..."

Appellant’s Position

The appellant contends that the ProSet P-90 firestop system meets the requirements of Sentence (4). The manufacturer has provided written confirmation that the installation detail is acceptable and a schematic drawing has been sealed by an engineer.

Building Official's Position

The building official maintains that the proposed installation is not the same as shown in the certification listing. The appellant proposes combustible trap arms connecting to a P-90 firestop connected with a mechanical coupling to a noncombustible stack. The certification listing shows a combustible stack with a length of horizontal pipe between the stack and the P-90 firestop. There is no indication that the P-90 firestop has been subjected to the S-115 test in a configuration similar to the proposed installation.

Appeal Board Decision #1567

It is the determination of the Board that the ProSet P-90 used at the penetration of the gypsum board in the vertical fire separation conforms to the requirements of Sentence 3.1.9.4.(3). The Board considers the cast iron stack to be a separate concern that must conform to applicable requirements for penetrations by noncombustible DWV pipes.

George Humphrey, Chair