m e m o r a n d u m - nfpa.org · 4 ballots were not returned (marshall, newman, sheppard and...

M E M O R A N D U M

TO: NFPA Technical Committee on Fire Tests

FROM: Tracy Golinveaux, Staff Liaison

DATE: June 15, 2010

SUBJECT: NFPA 251, 253, 262, 265 and 286 ROC Letter Ballots Final Results

The Final Results of NFPA 251, 253, 262, 265 and 286 ROC letter ballots are as follows:

The final ROC ballot results for NFPA 251 are as follows:

22 Members Eligible to Vote

4 Ballots were not returned (Marshall, Newman, Sheppard and Talley)













Reasons for negative votes, etc. from alternate members are not included unless the ballot from the

principal member was not received.

All votes were affirmative on all ballot items with the exception of those noted in the attached report.

According to the final ballot results, all ballot items received the necessary 2/3 required affirmative

votes to pass ballot.

Attachment: Final Results of Comments Reports

Report on Comments – November 2010 NFPA 251_______________________________________________________________________________________________251-1 Log #1

_______________________________________________________________________________________________Marcelo M. Hirschler, GBH International

251-2Do not delete this document but reapprove it.

I oppose the withdrawal of this standard because I feel that the NFPA Fire Tests Committee shouldretain the opportunity to participate in the maintenance of a key standard, since NFPA 251 is widely used throughout theNFPA set of codes, standards and guides. Code development should be given the opportunity to choose an alternatestandard to ASTM E 119.

ASTM E 119 has been recently updated and keeping NFPA 251 updated is unnecessary.Removing duplicate standards complies with the harmonization effort between NFPA, ASTM and UL.

Affirmative: 16 Negative: 24 Marshall, A., Newman, K., Sheppard, D., Talley, T.

BADDERS, JR., B.: This is a foundation fire resistance standard that is referenced in quite a few other NFPAdocuments and it provides an alternate to ASTM E119.HIRSCHLER, M.: The reason for my negative vote is the same reason that the comment was submitted in the first

place. This standard is referenced extensively in NFPA documents.

1Printed on 6/15/2010



253-9Correct distance from chimney to the back wall not to 5.1 +1/-0 cm but to 55 +/- 5 mm.

The change requested in this comment will bring the apparatus dimensions in line with those of otherequivalent standards (such as ASTM E 648 and ISO 9239-1). The committee was informed of the incorrect dimensionsat its ROP meeting.

***Insert Figure 3 here***

Affirmative: 184 Marshall, A., Newman, K., Sheppard, D., Talley, T.




253-27Revise text to read as follows:

8.1 General8.1.1 Report the results obtained from all specimens tested.8.1.2 Select three specimens for the calculations, with an explanation of why they were chosen .8.1.3 The mean, the standard deviation, and the coefficient of variation of the critical radiant flux test data on the three

specimens to be used for the calculations shall be calculated.The procedure allows more than three specimens to be tested. Results need to be reported for all of

them even if three only are chosen for calculations. Without such a change the statement “the three specimens” isinconsistent with the procedure that allows more specimens to be tested.

Revise as follows:8.1 General8.1.1 Results obtained from all specimens tested shall be reported.8.1.2 Three specimens for the calculations shall be selected and an explanation of why they were chosen shall be

provided.8.1.3 The mean, the standard deviation, and the coefficient of variation of the critical radiant flux test data on all

specimens to be used for the calculations shall be calculated.The intent of the comment is to require all test results to be reported, however the language in

the proposed section 8.1.3 allows the user to hand select only three of the test results for the calculations. Thecommittee developed alternative text to require that all test results contribute to the calculations so results cannot behand selected.

Affirmative: 16 Negative: 24 Marshall, A., Newman, K., Sheppard, D., Talley, T.

BADDERS, JR., B.: The intent of the committee action was not accurately captured. 8.1.2 is stating “Threespecimens for the calculations shall be selected...” but then 8.1.3 states “test data on all specimens shall be calculated.”This is contradictory and confusing, and needs to be cleaned up.

KOFFEL, W.: I agree with Barry Badders. Paragraph 8.1.3 needs to be revised by deleting “all” and replacing it with“the three selected.”




262-4Reject this proposal or accept only the change to the temperature limits.

No technical justification has been presented to make this change. The potential exists for the changein relative humidity (from a maximum of 55% to a maximum of 60%) to adversely affect smoke data. No data waspresented that demonstrates that this is not the case and this is likely to affect cables that are borderline in smokerelease.

There is no technical justification to prove that test specimens will retain more moisture in anenvironment with 5% more humidity in the test room.

Affirmative: 17 Abstain: 14 Marshall, A., Newman, K., Sheppard, D., Talley, T.

HIRSCHLER, M.: Abstain due to the potential for client interest.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________262-2 Log #3



No technical justification has been presented to make this change. The potential exists for thechange in relative humidity (from a maximum of 55% to a maximum of 60%) to adversely affect smoke data. No datawas presented that demonstrates that this is not the case and this is likely to affect cables that are borderline in smokerelease.

There is no technical justification to prove that test specimens will retain more moisture in anenvironment with 5% more humidity in the test room






262-20Reject this proposal

No technical justification has been presented to make this change. The technical committee waspromised data to demonstrate equivalency of results. It is important to demonstrate with data that the alternate optionsgenerate similar results. I suspect that the change is OK but data are needed to demonstrate that.



_______________________________________________________________________________________________262-4 Log #5



No technical justification has been presented to make this change. The potential exists for the changein relative humidity (from a maximum of 55% to a maximum of 60%) to adversely affect smoke data. No data waspresented that demonstrates that this is not the case and this is likely to affect cables that are borderline in smokerelease.

There is no technical justification to prove that test specimens will retain more moisture in anenvironment with 5% more humidity in the test room.





_______________________________________________________________________________________________Stanley Kaufman, CableSafe, Inc.

262-44Revise A.1.1.1 as follows:

This standard is referenced in NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, asa test method that electrical wires and cables and optical fiber cables are required to comply with for use in plenums.The pass/fail requirements are a maximum peak optical density of 0.50 or less, an average optical density of 0.15 orless, and a maximum flame spread distance of 1.5 m (5 ft) or less. The National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, contains fineprint notes that reference this standard, with the same pass/fail requirements, as the test method for use to list cablesfor use in plenums, in Articles articles 725 (Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 Remote-Control, Signaling, and Power-LimitedCircuits), 760 (Fire Alarm Systems), 770 (Optical Fiber Cables and Raceways), 800 (Communications Circuits), 820(Community Antenna Television and Radio Distribution Systems) and 830 (Network-Powered BroadbandCommunications Systems). In NFPA 70, a cable complying with the above requirements is said to be “lowsmoke-producing cable and fire-resistant cable” by “having adequate fire-resistant and low smoke-producingcharacteristics”. It should be noted that the fire resistance described in NFPA 70 does not address the same issues thatare addressed when testing by use of a temperature–time curve, such as described in ASTM E 119, Standard TestMethods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials. Procedures for testing fire-resistive cables are describedin ANSI/UL 2196, Standard for Tests of Fire Resistive Cables.

The text accepted by the technical committee is problematical on two issues:.1-The fine print notes in the NEC do not contain requirements; the NEC Style Manual does not permit mandatory

language in fine print notes (now called Informational Notes).2- The NEC fine print notes reference a maximum peak optical density of “0.5” not “0.50”.

Although the langauge in the NEC is not mandatory, it is still included within the NEC. NFPA90A is moving to reference a maximum peak optical density of 0.50 and NFPA 262 will follow to create consistencybetween the documents. The change to the capitalization of the word Articles can be handled by NFPA staff during theproduction process.


HIRSCHLER, M.: Abstain due to the potential for client interest.KOFFEL, W.: Although our client has no official position regarding this public comment, I abstain from balloting in

accordance with the Standards Council policy.




262-47Reject this proposal.

Moving the reference cable (and cable materials) into the non mandatory annex is definitely a move inthe right direction. However, the use of a commercial product with compounded materials is likely to result in a futurelack of understanding whether a change in fire test results during calibration is the consequence of equipment/procedurevariations or of calibration product/materials variations. This product should be replaced by a rod, or even a sheet, of anon compounded material. Moreover the use of a commercial cable that is being regulated by this test as a calibrationproduct introduces a commercial advantage for one manufacturer and permits the manufacturer to use this asadvertisement material. It should be noted that Mohawk Cable (which was purchased by Belden Cable a few years agoand is located in Leominster, MA) will cease activities in July 2010, as announced by the Belden Cable company in itsweb site, at http://investor.belden.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=397818 .

While this company may eventually go out of business, its parent company may be able toprovide an alternate cable. A description of the cable is available in the code.



_______________________________________________________________________________________________262-7 Log #7















_______________________________________________________________________________________________262-9 Log #9









_______________________________________________________________________________________________Rodney A. McPhee, Canadian Wood Council

265-5This is a two-part comment:

– Revise the proposed Appendix Note, and using the text contained in the proposed Appendix Note, add aformal definition for ‘expanded vinyl base coat’ to read, as follows:

Expanded vinyl base coat. A homogeneous layer of vinyl that contains closed cells, which have expanded due tothe use of a blowing agent in the manufacturing process.

The expanded base coat layer is a homogeneous vinyl layer that contains a blowing agent. During processing,the blowing agent decomposes, causing this layer to expand by forming closed cells. The total thickness of the wallcovering is approximately 1.4 to 1.8 mm (0.055 inch to 0.070 inch).

Renumber other definitions accordingly.– Add a formal definition and related Appendix Note for ‘nonexpanded vinyl skin coat’ in Section 3. The

following is one possible definition and Appendix Note to consider:Nonexpanded vinyl skin coat. A thin layer of solid vinyl with a cloth backing.

The thickness of the skin coat is approximately 0.79 to 1.58 mm (0.0312 inch to .0625 inch).Renumber other definitions accordingly.

The proposed definition lacks clarity in a number of ways. Consequently, it will be difficult for AHJs(and perhaps some manufacturers) to determine what types of materials (i.e., expanded vinyl wall coverings) arerepresented and thus are now falling under the Scope and testing requirements of this standard.

Clarification is needed by adding new definitions for the concepts of ‘expanded vinyl base coat’ and ’nonexpanded vinylskin coat’. Failing that, information needs to be added to the Appendix note to ensure it is clear as to the types ofexpanded vinyl products that are now required to be tested to this standard.

The detail explaining expanded vinyl base coat is unnecessary. Not adding this definition isconsistent with other nationally recognized standards.





265-6Reject the proposed change and revise the current definition and Appendix Note to read, as

follows:As used in this document, originally aA woven fabric made using yarns, which consist of, now generally

applied to (1) staple fibers and filaments suitable for conversion to or use as yarns or for the preparation of nonwovenfabrics, (2) yarns made from, natural or manufactured fibers, or some combination thereof and (3) fabrics made fromfibers as defined in (1) and (2) and from yarns.

The clean version of this would read:A woven fabric made using yarns, which consist of staple fibers and filaments, natural or manufactured

fibers, or some combination thereof.In the Appendix Note, revise text to read:

The concept definition of a textile wall covering is intended to include carpets or other types of textilefloor coverings applied to panels or walls.

In the substantiation for this revised definition, it suggests that the change is needed because.

This would suggest that the types of products currently captured by the definition and Scope (and therefore subject tothis fire test) needs to be expanded. Unless this change is simply to bring back (capture) the types of textile wallcoverings always meant to be subject to this testing, this change should be rejected, as there has been no newinformation submitted justifying such an expansion of the types of materials to be tested.

The definition of ‘textile’ has evolved and changed in the previous two cycles of NFPA 265 and is now proposed to bechanged again, seemingly back close to what it used to be. It would seem that this makes sense, but we should attemptto clearly word the definition so that there is no confusion as to what is represented.This is a test method that applies to textile wall coverings, and not just textiles. As such, it is confusing to have thisdefinition written to continue to refer, in a general sense, to ‘textiles’, without any reference to ‘wall covering’, such as isbeing proposed in the new definition for ‘expanded vinyl wall covering.’ Taking a similar approach would have us justdefining ‘expanded vinyl’. Since ‘textile wall covering’ is used throughout the document, consideration should also begiven to using as the preferred designation the compound term ‘textile wall covering’ and the definition adaptedaccordingly.

Further, an ‘improper’ generalization of the concepts implicated is made more confusing by the appendix note thatrefers to carpets or (other) textile floor coverings’. This indirect mentioning/referencing of floor coverings conflicts withthe Scope of the document and creates confusion. The Appendix note should be deleted or revised to avoid anyconfusion.

The NFPA 705 ‘preferred’ definition seems to offer a more clearer explanation/ description, especially if one were tosimply add ‘wall covering’ in the list of examples of manufactured items.

Revise the definition of Textile to read as follows:A non-woven fabric made of fibers or any kind of woven, knitted, knotted or tufted fabric.


Many textiles used as wall coverings are neither woven nor made from yarns. The definition oftextile was updated to accommodate these products.

The committee requests that the Glossary of Terms recognize NFPA 286,as the document responsible for the

definition of Textile.


THORNBERRY, R.: In accordance with the rules governing NFPA Technical Committee Projects, I am required toabstain since I have a specific client interest regarding this ballot item.




265-9This is a multi-part comment.

Revise the proposed wording for new 5.1.4 to read as follows:- If the wall

coverings are intended to be applied directly to a noncombustible wall or ceiling surface, the specimens shall consist ofthe wall covering mounted...’ (continue with wording as proposed)

Add a new definition to Section 3 for ‘wall covering system’ to read:An assembly of a textile wall covering or an expanded vinyl wall covering, adhesive (if

used), and substrate (if it is part of the assembly) used as a wall treatment for decorative or acoustical purposes.Add a reference to ‘wall covering system’ in both the title and scope statements.Add a new appendix NOTE to 5.1.3.1 explaining whether a wall covering installed on a pre-manufactured panel

can constitute the specimen, versus having to install the wall covering on one or all of the substrates described in 5.1.5,5.1.5, and 5.1.6, in any case.

Add a new appendix NOTE to 5.1.8 explaining whether the specimen that has a wall covering installed directlyon a framing/track system will include some form of enclosing element on the backside of the framing system.

EDITORIAL COMMENTS:- Current numbering has dropped 5.1.2.- Proposed 5.1.5.1, since it is an exception to the provisions to 5.1.4, should be relocated to Section 5.1.4 and

renumbered as 5.1.4.1.The new text introduces references to ‘wall covering system’. This concept is not explicitly addressed

(referenced) within the scope of the document and also is not defined within the standard. The use of ASTM 2404 as abasis for these changes justifies looking to that document for sources of such definitions, including that of ‘wall covering’,which is also not defined in this NFPA standard.

With the proposed 5.1.3.1, in referring to the type of adhesive to be used, it is unclear whether wall coverings that areinstalled on factory produced wall panels must still be tested in accordance with 5.1.4, 5.1.5 or 5.1.6, versus beingtested as a complete pre-manufactured wall panel system. Either way, this should be clarified in an Appendix note.

In the proposed new Section 5.1.4, there is a reference to ‘ceiling’ and ‘ceiling surface’. This presumably is goingbeyond the scope of the standard and the references should be deleted.

In the new 5.1.8, it is unclear whether there is a need to install a backing/substrate surface to which the track/framingwould be installed. And with that, if it is expected that the framing system is not an ‘open’ one, it would also seemnecessary to clarify that the nature of the ‘backing/substrate’ surface be considered part of the ‘specimen’, as it relatesto ‘end-use’. Otherwise, it would seem that this can be applied to a wall covering system installed to only one side aframing system that would otherwise be open, allowing simultaneous exposure of both sides to a single fire.

Revise text as follows:5.1.4 If the wall coverings are

intended to be applied directly to a noncombustible wall surface, the specimens shall consist of the wall coveringmounted...’ (continue with wording as proposed)

Revise text as follows:5.1.89

Thespecimens shall consist of the wall covering mounted for test in a manner thatis representative of its installation. Both sides shall be tested where the system is not symmetrical and not intended tobe attached to a wall.

Part 1: It is necessary to include the word 'surface' to clarify where wall coverings are intendedto be applied.


Report on Comments – November 2010 NFPA 265Part 2: With the current revisions, it is no longer necessary to define 'Wall Covering System'.Part 3: With the current revisions, the addition of the words 'wall covering system' in the scope and in the title are no

longer needed.Part 4: See Committee Comment 85-5 (Log #CC3)Part 5: The change to the section should meet the submitter's intent and adds details for a non-symmetrical specimen.





_______________________________________________________________________________________________Rick Thornberry, The Code Consortium, Inc. / Rep. Herman Miller, Inc.


Test specimens shall be mounted on a substrate that is appropriate to the intended application.Whenever a wall covering system uses an adhesive to attach a wall covering material, the adhesive specified by

the manufacturer shall be used for construction of the test specimen in accordance with the wall coveringmanufacturer’s application instructions.

If the wall covering system is a factory-produced wall panel, the adhesive shall be the same one used in themanufacture of the factory-produced wall panel.

Wall Coverings Intended to be Applied Directly to a Noncombustible Wall or Ceiling Surface - If the wallcoverings are intended to be applied directly to a noncombustible wall or ceiling surface, the specimens shall consist ofthe wall covering mounted on a nominal 6 mm (1/4 in.) thick fiber-cement board, complying with ASTM C 1186,Standard Specification for Flat Fiber-Cement Sheets, (Grade II) and passing ASTM E 136, Standard Test Method forBehavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C.

Wall Coverings Intended to be Applied over Gypsum Board - If the wall coverings are intended to be applied overgypsum board, the specimens shall consist of the wall covering mounted on a nominal 16 mm (5/8 in.) thick Type Xgypsum board, complying with ASTM C 1396/C 1396M, Specification for Gypsum Board. The gypsum board shall notbe required to be mounted on studs.

Whenever a wall covering has been tested using the test specimen described in 5.1.5 (over gypsum board), itshall not be required to be additionally tested mounted on a fiber-cement board in accordance with 5.1.4.

Wall Coverings Intended to be Applied over a Wood Substrate - If the wall coverings are intended to be appliedover a wood substrate, the specimens shall consist of the wall covering mounted on untreated plywood, with a faceveneer of Douglas fir. The plywood shall have the same thickness as the wood substrate used in actual installations fieldpractice, and shall comply with NIST Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-07, Structural Plywood. The plywood shall carrybe marked with a grade stamp indicating that the plywood has been graded PS 1-07 A-B and is for exterior exposure.The plywood shall with contain a grade stamp shall be issued by a quality control agency. Alternatively, the plywoodshall be permitted to be stamped as conforming to CSA Standard O121 (Douglas fir plywood).

Wall Coverings Intended to be Applied over Substrates other than Wood, Gypsum Board or NoncombustibleSurfaces - If the wall coverings are intended to be applied over substrates other than wood, gypsum board ornoncombustible surfaces, the specimens shall consist of the wall covering mounted on the substrate to which they are itis to be applied for actual end use according to the adhesive and application method technique specified by themanufacturer.

Editorial clarifications/corrections.

See Committee Comment 85-6 (Log #CC1)




Report on Comments – November 2010 NFPA 265_______________________________________________________________________________________________265-5 Log #CC3

_______________________________________________________________________________________________Technical Committee on Fire Tests,

265-9Revise text as follows:

5.1.1 Test specimens shall be mounted on a substrate that is appropriate tothe intended application.

5.1.1 Where wall coverings are intended to be applied to a substrate in actual end use, the test specimens shall consistof the wall coverings mounted on a substrate that is appropriate for the intended application as described in 5.1.3through 5.1.9.

5.1.2 Where wall coverings are used as part of prefabricated panels or demountable, relocatable, full height partitions,the specimens shall consist of the prefabricated panel or the demountable, relocatable, full height partitions with the wallcoverings mounted in the same manner as the actual finished product.

5.1.2.1 Where panels or partitions specified in 5.1.2 are constructed at the test facility, any adhesives used shall be thesame as those used by the manufacturer of the panels or partitions.

5.1.3* Where an adhesive is used to attach a wall covering to a substrate, the adhesive specified by the manufacturershall be used for construction of the test specimen in accordance with the wall covering manufacturer applicationinstructions.

5.1.3.1 If the wall covering system is a factory-produced wall panel, theadhesive shall be the same one used in the manufacture of the factory-producedwall panel.

The revision to 5.1.1 clarifies that 5.1.3- 5.1.9 apply to wall coverings that are intended to be attachedto a substrate. The new 5.1.2 discusses factory manufactured or lab fabricated panels or partitions that are not intendedto be attached to a substrate.

The new 5.1.2.1 replaces 5.1.3.1 which is being deleted because 5.1.3.1 was specific for factory manufacturedsystems. This is now covered in 5.1.2.

Section 5.1.3 was revised for clarification.



_______________________________________________________________________________________________265-6 Log #CC1


265-9Revise 5.1.5 as follows:

Wall Coverings Intended to be Applied over Gypsum Board - If the wall coverings are intended to be applied overgypsum board, the specimens shall consist of the wall covering mounted on a nominal 16 mm (5/8 in.) thick Type Xgypsum wallboard, complying with ASTM C 1396/C 1396M, Specification for Gypsum Board.

Adding the word wall specifies that not all types of gypsum board can be used for mountingspecimens.





265-9Add annex note to 5.1.7 as revised in Proposal 265-9 and Committee Comment 265-5 (Log #CC3)

as follows:A.5.1.7 References to wood are not intended to apply to wood to which a fire retardant treatment has been applied.

This annex note adds clarification for applications that use fire retardant treated wood.


_______________________________________________________________________________________________265-8 Log #4



A.1.1.1 Once important difference between the ignition source in this test method and that used in NFPA 286,Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth, isthat the flame in the NFPA 265 ignition source does not reach the ceiling. Thus, the NFPA 265 ignition source shouldnot be used for testing materials that are to be installed on the ceiling.

The sentence being deleted is not necessary. See Section 1.1.4.

Change the location of the annex note from 1.1.1 to 1.1.4. Keep deleted sentence as follows:A.1.1.4 One important difference between the ignition source in this test method and that used in NFPA 286, Standard

Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth, is that theflame in the NFPA 265 ignition source does not reach the ceiling. Thus, the NFPA 265 ignition source should not beused for testing materials that are to be installed on the ceiling.

Attaching this annex note to 1.1.4 while keeping the second sentence should meet thesubmitters intent.







B.3Textile wall coverings or expanded vinyl wall coverings should be considered as demonstrating satisfactory

performance if, during the Method B test protocol, the following conditions are met:(1) Flame should not spread to the ceiling during the 40kW exposure.(2) Flame should not spread to the outer extremities of the samples on the 2.44 m x 3.66 m (8 ft x 12ft) walls.(3) Flashover should not occur.(4) The total smoke released throughout the test should not exceed 1,000m2.

Part B.3 (4) states that model codes require a total smoke released of 1000 m2. This is not true. It istrue when using NFPA 286 for new material but not NFPA 265. Because of this, model codes require that when usingNFPA 265, the material still must be tested in the tunnel to obtain a smoke developed index (SDI).

This action is consistent with other nationally recognized standards.






286-1Extract the definition of Textile from NFPA 265 as follows and request to the Glossary of Terms

Advisory Committee that NFPA 286 be the responsible document for this definition.A non-woven fabric made of fibers or any kind of woven, knitted, knotted or tufted fabric.


This definition was developed to include various types of textiles used in wall covering applications,including non-woven textiles which are commonly used.


THORNBERRY, R.: In accordance with the rules governing NFPA Technical Committee projects, I am required toabstain since I have a direct client interest regarding this ballot item.



_______________________________________________________________________________________________Rick Thornberry, The Code Consortium, Inc.

286-7Add new text as follows:

The edge of the diffusion surface shall be located 25 mm ± 0.3 mm (1 in. ± 0.1 in.) from the face of each wall.The purpose of this Public Comment is to reinstate current Section 4.1.2.2 which requires the edge of

the diffusion surface for the burner to be located 1 inch from the face of each wall in the corner. The reason given forremoving this section was due to an apparent conflict between Section 4.1.2.1 and Section 4.1.2.2. However, Section4.1.2.1 simply requires the burner enclosure to be in direct contact with both walls in the corner in order to minimize anyair movement between the burner and the wall face. This will make a difference in the length in the diffusion flame.

On the other hand, Section 4.1.2.2 simply tells the test laboratory where the edge of the diffusion surface of the burnerneeds to be located in relationship to the wall faces of each wall in the corner. This is so there is a specified standofffrom the face of the flame to the face of the wall so that there is no direct flame contact when the burner is ignited. Itdoesn’t matter how the sides of the burner may be constructed by the various test labs that do this test. What matters isthat the top surface of the burner is configured so that the edge of the diffusion surface is spaced 1 inch from the face ofeach wall in the corner when the burner is set in the corner so that it abuts up to and touches each wall.

No technical justification was provided to eliminate the 1 inch requirement from the edge of the diffusion surface toeach wall face in the corner. Therefore, the wording in Section 4.1.2.2 should be reinstated with a slight editorialcorrection to clarify that the separation is to the face of each wall.

Without the new proposed text in 4.1.2.2, the code requires the burner to be flush up againstthe wall, creating more consistency between tests. At present it is very difficult to comply with 4.1.2.1, 4.1.2.2 and figure4.1.1 all at the same time.


THORNBERRY, R.: In accordance with the rules governing NFPA Technical Committee projects, I am required toabstain since I have a direct client interest regarding this ballot item.However, if I could vote, I would vote negative on the Committee action to reject this proposal. Absolutely no technicaljustification was provided by the Committee in support of its Reject recommendation. The Committee Statementindicates "It's very difficult to comply with 4.1.2.1, 4.1.2.2, and Figure 4.1.1 all at the same time." However, that is not thecase. Section 4.1.2.1 states: "The burner enclosure shall be in contact with both walls in a corner of the fire test room..."Section 4.1.2.2 states: "The edge of the diffusion surface [of the burner] shall be located 25 mm +/- 0.3 mm (1 in. +/- 0.1in.) from the wall." Figure 4.1.1 Gas Burner does not show a dimension for the thickness of the gas burner enclosure(wall). Thus, if the burner enclosure (wall) is 25 mm +/- 0.3 mm (1 in. +/- 0.1 in.), then both Sections 4.1.2.1 and 4.1.2.2are complied with. That doesn't seem very difficult to me. I continue to believe that the technical substantiation providedin the supporting statement for the original Public Comment still stands and has not been adequately addressed norrefuted by the Committee.There also appears to be some editorial errors and omissions in the proposed new text to Section 5.7 which wasintended to parallel a similar section designated as Section 5.1 in NFPA 265 currently under ballot. They are as follows:5.7.8The section numbers referenced in this section should be 5.7.7 instead of 5.7.2 and 5.7.6 instead of 5.7.4.5.7.10The next to the last line should read as follows: "substrate to which it is to be applied for actual end use according to theadhesive and application method specified by the …”5.7.11An additional sentence should be added to read as follows: “Both sides shall be tested where the system is notsymmetrical and not intended to be attached to a wall or ceiling.”A.5.7.5 is missing as an Annex A note to Section 5.7.5. See Section A.5.1.3 in Proposal 265-9 for the appropriate text.I should also point out that the Submitter's identification for this Public Comment should also indicate that I am


Report on Comments – November 2010 NFPA 286representing Herman Miller, Inc.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________286-3 Log #1

_______________________________________________________________________________________________Javier O. Trevino, Intertek Testing Services

N/AAdd text as follows:

For panel systems which may exhibit differing test results when tested vertically or horizontally on the walls of the testroom, tests on both orientations must be conducted and reported separately.

Metal skinned insulated panels may exhibit differing test results due to joint orientation. Horizontaljoints may spread flame more (along horizontal direction) than vertical joints.

This comment proposes new text and will be held for the next edition.






Whenever a wall or ceiling covering system uses an adhesive to attach a wall or ceiling covering material, theadhesive specified by the manufacturer shall be used for construction of the test specimen in accordance with the wallor ceiling covering manufacturer’s application instructions.

If the wall or ceiling covering system is a factory-produced wall panel, the adhesive shall be the same one usedin the manufacture of the factory-produced wall or ceiling panel.

Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied Directly to a Noncombustible Wall or Ceiling Surface - If thewall or ceiling coverings are intended to be applied directly to a noncombustible wall or ceiling surface, the specimensshall consist of the wall or ceiling covering mounted on a nominal 6 mm (1/4 in.) thick fiber-cement board, complyingwith ASTM C 1186, Standard Specification for Flat Fiber-Cement Sheets, (Grade II) and passing ASTM E 136, StandardTest Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C.

Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied over Gypsum Board - If the wall or ceiling coverings areintended to be applied over gypsum board, the specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling covering mounted on anominal 16 mm (5/8 in.) thick Type X gypsum board, complying with ASTM C 1396/C 1396M, Specification for GypsumBoard. The gypsum board shall not be required to be mounted on studs.

Whenever a wall or ceiling covering has been tested using the test specimen described in 5.7.2 (over gypsumboard), it shall not be required to be additionally tested mounted on a fiber-cement board in accordance with 5.7.2.

Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied over a Wood Substrate - If the wall or ceiling coverings areintended to be applied over a wood substrate, the specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling covering mounted onuntreated plywood, with a face veneer of Douglas fir. The plywood shall have the same thickness as the wood substrateused in actual installations field practice, and shall comply with NIST Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-07, StructuralPlywood. The plywood shall be marked with carry a grade stamp indicating that the plywood has been graded PS 1-07A-B and is for exterior exposure. The plywood shall contain a grade stamp shall be issued by a quality control agency.Alternatively, the plywood shall be permitted to be stamped as conforming to CSA Standard O121 (Douglas fir plywood).

Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied over Substrates other than Wood, Gypsum Board orNoncombustible Surfaces - If the wall or ceiling coverings are intended to be applied over substrates other than wood,gypsum board or noncombustible surfaces, the specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling covering mounted on thesubstrate to which it is they are to be applied for actual use according to the adhesive and application method techniquespecified by the manufacturer.


See Committee Comment 286-6 (Log #CC2).


THORNBERRY, R.: In accordance with the rules governing NFPA Technical Committee projects, I am required toabstain since I have a direct client interest regarding this ballot item.I should also point out that the Submitter's identification for this Public Comment should also indicate that I amrepresenting Herman Miller, Inc.





Site-fabricated stretch systemsThe material is to be tested in the form of self-supporting panels that are 1.22 m ± 0.05 m (4 feet ± 2 in.) wide

and extend the full height of each portion of the wall test specimen (from floor to ceiling) and the full width of eachportion of the ceiling test specimen (from wall to wall).

Each panel shall be constructed with the frame material on the panel perimeter, the core material, and the textile,fabric or vinyl covering (see 3.3.2). The panel shall have a longitudinal midseam (made from the frame pieces or from ajoining piece) running the entire length of the panel. Details of the panel constructions shall follow the manufacturer’sinstructions and shall be noted in the test report.

There shall be two panels on the end wall, three on each side wall and three on the ceiling.The frames of each panel shall be joined by abutting successive frames along the wall or ceiling and attaching

them attached to the fire-rated (Type X) gypsum wallboard (or calcium silicate board) comprising the fire test roominside wall and ceiling surface by using mechanical fasteners.


Accept proposed changes and revise 5.7.1 as follows:The material is to be tested in the form of self-supporting panels that are 1.22 m ± 0.05 m (4 feet ± 2 in.) wide

and extend the full height of each portion of the wall test specimen (from floor to ceiling) and the full width of eachportion of the ceiling test specimen (from wall to wall).

The majority of the changes in the proposal are editorial and are accepted. Using the text"self-supporting" is limiting and unnecessary.







5.7 Wall or Ceiling Covering Materials5.7.1 Where the wall or ceiling coverings are intended to be applied to a substrate in actual end use, the test

specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling coverings mounted on a substrate that is appropriate for the intendedapplication as described in 5.7.5 through 5.7.11.

5.7.2 Where the wall or ceiling covering system is a factory-produced wall panel, the adhesive shall be the same oneused in the manufacture of the factory-produced wall or ceiling panel.

5.7.3 Where the wall coverings are used as part of prefabricated panels or demountable, relocatable, full heightpartitions, the test specimens shall consist of the prefabricated panel or the demountable, relocatable, full heightpartitions with the wall coverings mounted in the same manner as the actual finished product.

5.7.4 Where the panels or partitions specified in 5.7.2 are constructed at the test facility, any adhesives used shall bethe same as the ones used by the manufacturer of the panels or partitions.

5.7.5* Where an adhesive is used to attach a wall or ceiling covering to a substrate, the adhesive specified by themanufacturer shall be used forconstruction of the test specimen in accordance with the wall or ceiling coveringmanufacturer's application instructions.

5.7.6 Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied Directly to a Noncombustible Wall or Ceiling Surface - If the wallor ceiling coverings areintended to be applied directly to a noncombustible wall or ceiling surface, the specimens shall consist of the wall orceiling covering mounted on a nominal 6 mm (1/4 in.) thick fiber-cement board, complying with ASTM C 1186, StandardSpecification for Flat Fiber-Cement Sheets, (Grade II) and passing ASTM E 136, Standard Test Method for Behavior ofMaterials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C.

5.7.7 Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied over Gypsum Board - If the wall or ceiling coverings areintended to be applied over gypsum board, the specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling covering mounted on anominal 16 mm (5/8 in.) thick Type X gypsum wallboard, complying with ASTM C 1396/C 1396M, Specification forGypsum Board.

5.7.8 Whenever a wall or ceiling covering has been tested using the test specimen described in 5.7.2 (over gypsumboard), it shall not be required to be additionally tested mounted on a fiber-cement board in accordance with 5.7.4.

5.7.9 Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied over a Wood Substrate - If the wall or ceiling coverings areintended to be applied over a woodsubstrate, the specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling covering mounted on untreated plywood, with a face veneerof Douglas fir. The plywood shall have the same thickness as the wood substrate used in actual installations, and shallcomply with NIST Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-07, Structural Plywood. The plywood shall be marked with a gradestamp indicating that the plywood has been graded PS 1-07 A-B and is for exterior exposure. The grade stamp shall beissued by a quality control agency. Alternatively, the plywood shall be permitted to be stamped as conforming toCSA Standard O121 (Douglas fir plywood).

5.7.10* Wall or Ceiling Coverings Intended to be Applied over Substrates other than Wood, Gypsum Board orNoncombustible Surfaces - If the wall or ceiling coverings are intended to be applied over substrates other than wood,gypsum board or noncombustible surfaces, the specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling covering mounted on thesubstrate to which it is to be applied for actual use according to the adhesive and application method specified by themanufacturer.

A.5.7.10 References to wood are not intended to apply to wood to which a fire retardant treatment has been applied.5.7.11 Wall or Ceiling Coverings Not Intended to be Adhered Directly to a Wall or Ceiling Surface, but Intended to be

Otherwise Supported by Framing or a Track System –The specimens shall consist of the wall or ceiling coveringmounted for test in a manner that is representative of its installation.

These changes reflect changes in NFPA 265, creating consistency between the documents.



Report on Comments – November 2010 NFPA 286

THORNBERRY, R.: In accordance with the rules governing NFPA Technical Committee projects, I am required toabstain since I have a direct client interest regarding this ballot item.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________286-7 Log #CC1


286-8Revise 5.7.3 as follows:

Wall Coverings Intended to be Applied over Gypsum Board - If the wall coverings are intended to be applied overgypsum board, the specimens shall consist of the wall covering mounted on a nominal 16 mm (5/8 in.) thick Type Xgypsum wallboard, complying with ASTM C 1396/C 1396M, Specification for Gypsum Board.

This change mirrors changes made to NFPA 265.


_______________________________________________________________________________________________286-8 Log #CC4


286-10Revise A.1.1 to read as follows:

A.1.1 The performance of all wall and ceiling covering systems is addressed in this standard. Textile and expandedvinyl wall covering systems are included in this standard and they are also addressed specifically in NFPA 265,Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire Growth Contribution of Textile Coverings on Full HeightPanels and Walls. Further information on testing of textile wall coverings can be found in Fisher et al., Room Fire Testsof Textile Wall Coverings. Textile and expanded vinyl wall coverings are permitted by some codes (e.g. NFPA 101, LifeSafety Code) to be tested using NFPA 265.

Revision clarifies various applications





286-12Delete text as follows:

Council.Interior finish materials should be considered as demonstrating satisfactory performance if the following conditions

are met:1. During the 40kWexposure, the interior finish should comply with Item 1.2. During the 160 kW exposure, the interior finish should comply with Item 2.3. During the entire test, the interior finish should comply with Items 3 and 4.1. During the 40kW exposure, flames should not spread to the ceiling.2. During the 160 kW exposure, the interior finish should comply with the following:2.1. Flame should not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.2.2. Flashover should not occur.3. The peak rate of heat release throughout the test should not exceed 800 kW.4. The total smoke released throughout the test should not exceed 1,000 m2.

To eliminate redundant text.




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