Building code officials carry significant responsibility, ensuring the safety of building occupants while balancing the interests of developers, architects, and others looking to advance construction projects and the investments they represent.
They must navigate evolving materials, construction methods and design innovations while enforcing ever-changing codes. With so much to consider, their role requires vigilance, expertise and sound judgment.
Challenges can also arise for building code officials when ensuring that fire-retardant-treated wood (FRTW) is used correctly in construction.
Here are five best practices for FRTW code enforcement and compliance from Dr. Dave Bueche, Hoover’s Director of Fire & Life Safety Codes, which he explains in detail in his latest whitepaper, “Best Practice in Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood Code Enforcement.”
1. Verify Pressure-Impregnated FRTW Over Surface Coatings
Building codes prohibit the use of flame-retardant paints, coatings and other surface-applied treatments as substitutes for pressure-impregnated FRTW. Surface treatments can be damaged during handling, storage and installation, compromising their fire performance. Always confirm that FRTW has been properly pressure-impregnated as required by the code.
2. Critically Assess Evaluation Reports
Not all evaluation reports are equal. Some flame-retardant coatings may carry reports that appear legitimate, but do not actually meet the full intent of the code. Code officials should carefully review the evaluation process and ensure that the testing methodologies are clear, transparent and credible.
3. Ensure Evaluators Have Proper Accreditation
Code officials should periodically review the reliability of evaluation agencies. The agency conducting the testing and listing should have proper accreditations, such as those from ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and IAS (International Accreditation Service). Trusted organizations like UL Solutions provide credible evaluation reports and certifications.
4. Look for Comprehensive Testing and Documentation
A thorough evaluation report should cover all aspects of FRTW performance, including surface burning characteristics, mechanical properties, hygroscopicity and corrosivity. Reports that include references and hyperlinks to manufacturer listings and fire-rated assemblies can help simplify compliance verification.
5. Build a Culture of Safety and Code Compliance
Regularly updating knowledge of material standards and evaluation agencies helps code officials make informed decisions. Collaborating with reputable manufacturers like Hoover Treated Wood Products, which partners with UL Solutions for rigorous product testing, ensures that only code-compliant FRTW is used in construction.
Read more in-depth about the best practices for FRTW code enforcement in Dr. Dave Bueche’s most-recently published whitepaper here.
By following these best practices, code officials can confidently enforce fire safety regulations and protect lives while maintaining the integrity of the built environment.
If you want to learn more about FRTW or have questions about FRTW code enforcement, you can contact TecWood, Hoover’s free FRTW support service by calling 1-800-TEC-WOOD or email tecwood@frtw.com.
About Dr. Dave Bueche Dr. Dave Bueche, Director of Fire & Life Safety Codes, is a leading authority and trusted expert on fire-retardant-treated wood. He has 40 years of experience supervising construction projects, managing associations, leading research and teaching courses. His team develops product applications, sets standards and promotes FRTW in construction. Active in American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), International Code Council (ICC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE), International Society of Wood Science and Technology (SWST), and past board member of the Forest Products Society, he serves on UL’s Standards Technical Panel and ASTM/NFPA committees.
