Appendix D — Division B
Fire-Performance Ratings
Section D-1. General
The content of this Appendix was prepared on the recommendations of the Standing Committee
on Fire Safety and Occupancy, which was established by the Canadian Commission on
Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) for this purpose.
D-1.1. Introduction
D-1.1.1. Scope
1) This fire-performance information is presented in a form closely linked to the performance
requirements and the minimum materials specifications of the

By-law

.
2) The ratings have been assigned only after careful consideration of all available literature
on assemblies of common building materials, where they are adequately identified by
description. The assigned values based on this information will, in most instances,
be conservative when compared to the ratings determined on the basis of actual tests
on individual assemblies.
3) The fire-performance information set out in this Appendix applies to materials and
assemblies of materials which comply in all essential details with the minimum structural
design standards described in Part 4 of the

By-law

. Additional requirements, where appropriate, are described in other Sections of this Appendix.
7) Section D-5 contains requirements for the installation of fire doors and fire dampers
in fire-rated stud wall assemblies and the installation of fire stop flaps in fire-rated
membrane ceilings.
8) Section D-6 contains background information regarding fire test reports, obsolete
materials and assemblies, assessment of archaic assemblies and the development of
the component additive method.

BC2012 2012-01-01 R1NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-1.1.1. Scope
1) This fire-performance information is presented in a form closely linked to the performance
requirements and the minimum materials specifications of the
By-lawBritish Columbia Building Code.
2) The ratings have been assigned only after careful consideration of all available literature
on assemblies of common building materials, where they are adequately identified by
description. The assigned values based on this information will, in most instances,
be conservative when compared to the ratings determined on the basis of actual tests
on individual assemblies.
3) The fire-performance information set out in this Appendix applies to materials and
assemblies of materials which comply in all essential details with the minimum structural
design standards described in Part 4 of the
By-lawBritish Columbia Building Code. Additional requirements, where appropriate, are described in other Sections of this
Appendix.
4) Section D-2 of this Appendix assigns fire-resistance ratings for walls, floors, roofs,
columns and beams related to CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,” and describes methods for determining these ratings.
5) Section D-3 assigns flame-spread ratings and smoke developed classifications for surface
materials related to CAN/ULC-S102, “Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and
Assemblies,” and CAN/ULC-S102.2, “Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Flooring, Floor Coverings,
and Miscellaneous Materials and Assemblies.”
6) Section D-4 describes noncombustibility in building materials when tested in accordance
with CAN/ULC-S114, “Test for Determination of Non-Combustibility in Building Materials.”
7) Section D-5 contains requirements for the installation of fire doors and fire dampers
in fire-rated stud wall assemblies and the installation of fire stop flaps in fire-rated
membrane ceilings.
8) Section D-6 contains background information regarding fire test reports, obsolete
materials and assemblies, assessment of archaic assemblies and the development of
the component additive method.
D-1.1.1. Scope
1) This fire-performance information is presented in a form closely linked to the performance
requirements and the minimum materials specifications of the
By-lawNational Building Code of Canada 2010.
2) The ratings have been assigned only after careful consideration of all available literature
on assemblies of common building materials, where they are adequately identified by
description. The assigned values based on this information will, in most instances,
be conservative when compared to the ratings determined on the basis of actual tests
on individual assemblies.
3) The fire-performance information set out in this Appendix applies to materials and
assemblies of materials which comply in all essential details with the minimum structural
design standards described in Part 4 of the
By-lawNational Building Code of Canada. Additional requirements, where appropriate, are described in other Sections of this
Appendix.
4) Section D-2 of this Appendix assigns fire-resistance ratings for walls, floors, roofs,
columns and beams related to CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,” and describes methods for determining these ratings.
5) Section D-3 assigns flame-spread ratings and smoke developed classifications for surface
materials related to CAN/ULC-S102, “Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and
Assemblies,” and CAN/ULC-S102.2, “Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Flooring, Floor Coverings,
and Miscellaneous Materials and Assemblies.”
6) Section D-4 describes noncombustibility in building materials when tested in accordance
with CAN/ULC-S114, “Test for Determination of Non-Combustibility in Building Materials.”
7) Section D-5 contains requirements for the installation of fire doors and fire dampers
in fire-rated stud wall assemblies and the installation of fire stop flaps in fire-rated
membrane ceilings.
8) Section D-6 contains background information regarding fire test reports, obsolete
materials and assemblies, assessment of archaic assemblies and the development of
the component additive method.
D-1.1.2. Referenced Documents
1) Where documents are referenced in this Appendix, they shall
be the editions designated in
Table D-1.1.2.

BC2012 2014-12-19 R7NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
Table D-1.1.2. Documents Referenced in Appendix D Fire-Performance Ratings Forming part of Sentence (1)
|
Issuing Agency |
Document Number(1) |
Title of Document(2) |
Reference |
ANSI |
A208.1-2009 |
Particleboard
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
ASTM |
C 330-09 C 330/C 330M-09 |
Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete
|
D-1.4.3.(2) |
ASTM |
C 1396/C 1396M-11 |
Gypsum Board
|
D-1.5.1. Table D-3.1.1.A.
|
CCBFC |
NRCC 30629 |
Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada 1990
|
D-6.2. D-6.3. D-6.4.
|
CGSB |
4-GP-36M-1978 |
Carpet Underlay, Fiber Type
|
Table D-3.1.1.B. |
CGSB |
CAN/CGSB-4.129-97 |
Carpets for Commercial Use
|
Table D-3.1.1.B. |
CGSB |
CAN/CGSB-11.3-M87 |
Hardboard
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CGSB |
CAN/CGSB-92.2-M90 |
Trowel or Spray Applied Acoustical Material
|
D-2.3.4.(5) |
CSA |
A23.1-09/A23.2-09 |
Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction/Test Methods and Standard
Practices for Concrete
|
D-1.4.3.(1) |
CSA |
CAN/CSA-A23.3-04 |
Design of Concrete Structures
|
D-2.1.5.(2) D-2.6.6.(1) Table D-2.6.6.B. D-2.8.2.(1) Table D-2.8.2.
|
CSA |
A82.5-M1978 |
Structural Clay Non-Load-Bearing Tile
|
Table D-2.6.1.A. |
CSA |
A82.22-M1977 |
Gypsum Plasters
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
CAN/CSA-A82.27-M91 |
Gypsum Board
|
D-1.5.1. Table D-3.1.1.A.
|
CSA |
A82.30-M1980 |
Interior Furring, Lathing and Gypsum Plastering
|
D-1.7.2.(1) D-2.3.9.(1) Table D-2.5.1.
|
CSA |
A82.31-M1980 |
Gypsum Board Application
|
D-2.3.9.(1) D-2.3.9.(6)
|
CSA |
CAN/CSA-A165.1-04 |
Concrete Block Masonry Units
|
Table D-2.1.1. |
CSA |
O86-09 |
Engineering Design in Wood
|
D-2.11.2.(1) D-2.11.2.(2)
|
CSA |
O121-08 |
Douglas Fir Plywood
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
O141-05 |
Softwood Lumber
|
D-2.3.6.(2) Table D-2.4.1.
|
CSA |
O151-09 |
Canadian Softwood Plywood
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
O153-M1980 |
Poplar Plywood
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
CAN/CSA-O325-07 |
Construction Sheathing
|
D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
O437.0-93 |
OSB and Waferboard
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
S16-09 |
Design of Steel Structures
|
D-2.6.6.(1) D-2.6.6.(3) Table D-2.6.6.B.
|
NFPA |
80-2010 |
Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives
|
D-5.2.1.(1) D-5.2.1.(2)
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S101-07 |
Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials
|
D-1.1.1.(4) D-1.12.1. D-2.3.2.
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S102-10 |
Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and Assemblies
|
D-1.1.1.(5) |
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S102.2-10 |
Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Flooring, Floor Coverings, and Miscellaneous
Materials and Assemblies
|
D-1.1.1.(5) Table D-3.1.1.B.
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S114-05 |
Test for Determination of Non-Combustibility in Building Materials
|
D-1.1.1.(6) D-4.1.1.(1) D-4.2.1.
|
ULC |
ULC-S505-1974 |
Fusible Links for Fire Protection Service
|
D-5.3.2. |
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S702-09 |
Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings
|
Table D-2.3.4.A. Table D-2.3.4.D. D-2.3.5.(2) D-2.3.5.(4) Table D-2.6.1.E. D-6.4.
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S703-09 |
Cellulose Fibre Insulation (CFI) for Buildings
|
D-2.3.4.(5) |
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S706-09 |
Standard for Wood Fibre Thermal InsulationInsulating Boards for Buildings |
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
Table D-1.1.2. Documents Referenced in Appendix D Fire-Performance Ratings Forming part of Sentence (1)
|
Issuing Agency |
Document Number(1) |
Title of Document(2) |
Reference |
ANSI |
A208.1-2009 |
Particleboard
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
ASTM |
C 330-09 C 330-05 |
Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete
|
D-1.4.3.(2) |
ASTM |
C 1396/C 1396M-111396M-06a |
Gypsum Board
|
D-1.5.1. Table D-3.1.1.A.
|
CCBFC |
NRCC 30629 |
Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada 1990
|
D-6.2. D-6.3. D-6.4.
|
CGSB |
4-GP-36M-1978 |
Carpet Underlay, Fiber Type
|
Table D-3.1.1.B. |
CGSB |
CAN/CGSB-4.129-97 |
Carpets for Commercial Use
|
Table D-3.1.1.B. |
CGSB |
CAN/CGSB-11.3-M87 |
Hardboard
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CGSB |
CAN/CGSB-92.2-M90 |
Trowel or Spray Applied Acoustical Material
|
D-2.3.4.(5) |
CSA |
A23.1-09/A23.2-09 |
Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction/Test Methods and Standard
Practices for Concrete
|
D-1.4.3.(1) |
CSA |
CAN/CSA-A23.3-04 |
Design of Concrete Structures
|
D-2.1.5.(2) D-2.6.6.(1) Table D-2.6.6.B. D-2.8.2.(1) Table D-2.8.2.
|
CSA |
A82.5-M1978 |
Structural Clay Non-Load-Bearing Tile
|
Table D-2.6.1.A. |
CSA |
A82.22-M1977 |
Gypsum Plasters
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
CAN/CSA-A82.27-M91 |
Gypsum Board
|
D-1.5.1. Table D-3.1.1.A.
|
CSA |
A82.30-M1980 |
Interior Furring, Lathing and Gypsum Plastering
|
D-1.7.2.(1) D-2.3.9.(1) Table D-2.5.1.
|
CSA |
A82.31-M1980 |
Gypsum Board Application
|
D-2.3.9.(1) D-2.3.9.(6)
|
CSA |
CAN/CSA-A165.1-04 |
Concrete Block Masonry Units
|
Table D-2.1.1. |
CSA |
O86-09 |
Engineering Design in Wood
|
D-2.11.2.(1) D-2.11.2.(2)
|
CSA |
O121-08 |
Douglas Fir Plywood
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
O141-05 |
Softwood Lumber
|
D-2.3.6.(2) Table D-2.4.1.
|
CSA |
O151-09 |
Canadian Softwood Plywood
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
O153-M1980 |
Poplar Plywood
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
CAN/CSA-O325-07 |
Construction Sheathing
|
D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
O437.0-93 |
OSB and Waferboard
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
CSA |
S16-09 |
Design of Steel Structures
|
D-2.6.6.(1) D-2.6.6.(3) Table D-2.6.6.B.
|
NFPA |
80-201080-2007 |
Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives
|
D-5.2.1.(1) D-5.2.1.(2)
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S101-07 |
Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials
|
D-1.1.1.(4) D-1.12.1. D-2.3.2.
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S102-10CAN/ULC-S102-07 |
Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and Assemblies
|
D-1.1.1.(5) |
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S102.2-10CAN/ULC-S102.2-07 |
Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Flooring, Floor Coverings, and Miscellaneous
Materials and Assemblies
|
D-1.1.1.(5) Table D-3.1.1.B.
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S114-05 |
Test for Determination of Non-Combustibility in Building Materials
|
D-1.1.1.(6) D-4.1.1.(1) D-4.2.1.
|
ULC |
ULC-S505-1974 |
Fusible Links for Fire Protection Service
|
D-5.3.2. |
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S702-09 |
Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings
|
Table D-2.3.4.A. Table D-2.3.4.D. D-2.3.5.(2) D-2.3.5.(4) Table D-2.6.1.E. D-6.4.
|
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S703-09CAN/ULC-S703-01 |
Cellulose Fibre Insulation (CFI) for Buildings
|
D-2.3.4.(5) |
ULC |
CAN/ULC-S706-09CAN/ULC-S706-02 |
Wood Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings
|
Table D-3.1.1.A. |
D-1.1.3. Applicability of Ratings
The ratings shown in this document apply if more specific test values are not
available. The construction of an assembly that is the subject of an individual test
report must be followed in all essential details if the fire-resistance rating
reported is to be applied for use with this

By-law

.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-1.1.3. Applicability of Ratings
The ratings shown in this document apply if more specific test values are not
available. The construction of an assembly that is the subject of an individual test
report must be followed in all essential details if the fire-resistance rating
reported is to be applied for use with this
By-lawCode.
D-1.1.4. Higher Ratings
The

Chief Building Official

may allow higher fire-resistance ratings than those derived from this Appendix, where
supporting evidence justifies a higher rating. Additional information is provided
in
summaries of published test information and the reports of fire tests carried out
by
the Institute for Research in Construction, National Research Council of Canada,
included in Section D-6, Background Information.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-1.1.4. Higher Ratings
The
Chief Building Officialauthority having jurisdiction may
allow higher fire-resistance ratings than those derived from this Appendix, where
supporting evidence justifies a higher rating. Additional information is provided
in
summaries of published test information and the reports of fire tests carried out
by
the Institute for Research in Construction, National Research Council of Canada,
included in Section D-6, Background Information.
D-1.1.5. Additional Information on Fire Rated Assemblies
Assemblies containing materials for which there is no nationally
recognized standard are not included in this Appendix. Many such assemblies
have been rated by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Underwriters' Laboratories
of Canada (ULC), or Intertek Testing Services NA Ltd. (ITS).
D-1.2. Interpretation of Test Results
D-1.2.1. Limitations
1) The fire-performance ratings set out in this Appendix are
based on those that would be obtained from the standard methods of test described
in
the

By-law

. The test methods are essentially a means of comparing the performance of one building component or
assembly with another in relation to its performance in fire.
2) Since it is not practicable to measure the fire resistance
of constructions in situ, they must be evaluated under some agreed test conditions.
A specified fire-resistance rating is not necessarily the actual time that the
assembly would endure in situ in a building fire, but is that which the particular
construction must meet under the specified methods of test.
3) Considerations arising from departures in use from the
conditions established in the standard test methods may, in some circumstances, have
to be taken into account by the designer and the

Chief Building Official

. Some of these conditions are covered at present by the provisions of the

By-law

.
4) For walls and partitions, the stud spacings previously
specified as 16 or 24 inch have been converted to 400 and 600
mm, respectively, for consistency with other metric values; however, the
use of equivalent imperial dimensions for stud spacing is permitted.

BC2012 2012-01-01 R1NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-1.2.1. Limitations
1) The fire-performance ratings set out in this Appendix are
based on those that would be obtained from the standard methods of test described
in
the
By-lawCode. The test methods are
essentially a means of comparing the performance of one building component or
assembly with another in relation to its performance in fire.
2) Since it is not practicable to measure the fire resistance
of constructions in situ, they must be evaluated under some agreed test conditions.
A specified fire-resistance rating is not necessarily the actual time that the
assembly would endure in situ in a building fire, but is that which the particular
construction must meet under the specified methods of test.
3) Considerations arising from departures in use from the
conditions established in the standard test methods may, in some circumstances, have
to be taken into account by the designer and the
Chief
Building Officialauthority having jurisdiction. Some of these conditions are covered at
present by the provisions of the
By-lawBritish Columbia Building Code.
4) For walls and partitions, the stud spacings previously
specified as 16 or 24 inch have been converted to 400 and 600
mm, respectively, for consistency with other metric values; however, the
use of equivalent imperial dimensions for stud spacing is permitted.
D-1.2.1. Limitations
1) The fire-performance ratings set out in this Appendix are
based on those that would be obtained from the standard methods of test described
in
the
By-lawCode. The test methods are
essentially a means of comparing the performance of one building component or
assembly with another in relation to its performance in fire.
2) Since it is not practicable to measure the fire resistance
of constructions in situ, they must be evaluated under some agreed test conditions.
A specified fire-resistance rating is not necessarily the actual time that the
assembly would endure in situ in a building fire, but is that which the particular
construction must meet under the specified methods of test.
3) Considerations arising from departures in use from the
conditions established in the standard test methods may, in some circumstances, have
to be taken into account by the designer and the
Chief
Building Officialauthority having jurisdiction. Some of these conditions are covered at
present by the provisions of the
By-lawNational Building Code.
4) For walls and partitions, the stud spacings previously
specified as 16 or 24 inch have been converted to 400 and 600
mm, respectively, for consistency with other metric values; however, the
use of equivalent imperial dimensions for stud spacing is permitted.
D-1.3. Concrete
D-1.3.1. Aggregates in Concrete
Low density aggregate concretes generally exhibit better fire
performance than natural stone aggregate concretes. A series of tests
on concrete masonry walls, combined with mathematical analysis of
the test results, has allowed further distinctions between certain
low density aggregates to be made.
D-1.4. Types of Concrete
D-1.4.1. Description
1) For purposes of this Appendix, concretes are described as
Types S, N, L, L
1, L
2, L40S, L
120S or
L
220S as described in
Sentences (2) to (8).
2) Type S concrete is the type in which the coarse aggregate is
granite, quartzite, siliceous gravel or other dense materials containing at least
30

per cent

quartz, chert or flint.
3) Type N concrete is the type in which the coarse aggregate is
cinders, broken brick, blast furnace slag, limestone, calcareous gravel, trap rock,
sandstone or similar dense material containing not more than 30

per cent

of quartz, chert or flint.
4) Type L concrete is the type in which all the aggregate is
expanded slag, expanded clay, expanded shale or pumice.
5) Type L
1 concrete is the type in which all the
aggregate is expanded shale.
6) Type L
2 concrete is the type in which all the
aggregate is expanded slag, expanded clay or pumice.
7) Type L40S concrete is the type in which the fine portion of
the aggregate is sand and low density aggregate in which the sand does not exceed
40

per cent

of the total volume of all aggregates in the concrete.
8) Type L
120S and Type L
220S concretes
are the types in which the fine portion of the aggregate is sand and low density
aggregate in which the sand does not exceed 20

per cent

of the total volume of all aggregates in the concrete.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-1.4.1. Description
1) For purposes of this Appendix, concretes are described as
Types S, N, L, L
1, L
2, L40S, L
120S or
L
220S as described in Sentences (2) to (8).
2) Type S concrete is the type in which the coarse aggregate is
granite, quartzite, siliceous gravel or other dense materials containing at least
30 per cent 30% quartz, chert or flint.
3) Type N concrete is the type in which the coarse aggregate is
cinders, broken brick, blast furnace slag, limestone, calcareous gravel, trap rock,
sandstone or similar dense material containing not more than
30 per cent 30% of quartz, chert or
flint.
4) Type L concrete is the type in which all the aggregate is
expanded slag, expanded clay, expanded shale or pumice.
5) Type L
1 concrete is the type in which all the
aggregate is expanded shale.
6) Type L
2 concrete is the type in which all the
aggregate is expanded slag, expanded clay or pumice.
7) Type L40S concrete is the type in which the fine portion of
the aggregate is sand and low density aggregate in which the sand does not exceed
40 per cent 40% of the total volume of all aggregates in the concrete.
8) Type L
120S and Type L
220S concretes
are the types in which the fine portion of the aggregate is sand and low density
aggregate in which the sand does not exceed
20 per cent 20% of the total volume of all
aggregates in the concrete.
D-1.4.2. Determination of Ratings
Where concretes are described as being of Type S, N, L, L
1 or L
2, the rating applies to the concrete containing
the aggregate in the group that provides the least fire resistance.
If the nature of an aggregate cannot be determined accurately enough
to place it in one of the groups, the aggregate shall be considered
as being in the group that requires a greater thickness of concrete
for the required fire resistance.
D-1.4.3. Description of Aggregates
2) Increasing the proportion of sand as fine aggregate in low density concretes requires
increased thicknesses of material to produce equivalent fire-resistance ratings. Low
density aggregates for Type L and Types L-S concretes used in loadbearing components
shall conform to

ASTM C 330/C 330M, “Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete.”

3) Non-loadbearing low density components of vermiculite and perlite concrete, in the
absence of other test evidence, shall be rated on the basis of the values shown for
Type L concrete.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-1.4.3. Description of Aggregates
1) The descriptions of the aggregates in Type S and Type N concretes apply to the coarse
aggregates only. Coarse aggregate for this purpose means that retained on a 5 mm sieve using the method of grading aggregates described in CSA A23.1/A23.2, “Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction/Test Methods
and Standard Practices for Concrete.”
2) Increasing the proportion of sand as fine aggregate in low density concretes requires
increased thicknesses of material to produce equivalent fire-resistance ratings. Low
density aggregates for Type L and Types L-S concretes used in loadbearing components
shall conform to
ASTM C 330/C 330M, “Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete.”ASTM C 330, “Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete.”
3) Non-loadbearing low density components of vermiculite and perlite concrete, in the
absence of other test evidence, shall be rated on the basis of the values shown for
Type L concrete.
D-1.5. Gypsum Wallboard
D-1.5.1. Types of Wallboard
D-1.6. Equivalent Thickness
D-1.6.1. Method of Calculating
1) The thickness of solid-unit
masonry and concrete described in this Appendix shall be the thickness
of solid material in the unit or component thickness. For units that
contain cores or voids, the Tables refer to the equivalent thickness
determined in conformance with
Sentences (2) to (10).
2) Where a plaster finish
is used, the equivalent thickness of a wall, floor, column or beam
protection shall be equal to the sum of the equivalent thicknesses
of the concrete or masonry units and the plaster finish measured at
the point that will give the least value of equivalent thickness.
3) Except as provided
in
Sentence (5), the equivalent thickness of a hollow masonry unit shall be calculated
as equal to the actual overall thickness of a unit in millimetres
multiplied by a factor equal to the net volume of the unit and divided
by its gross volume.
4) Net volume shall be
determined using a volume displacement method that is not influenced
by the porous nature of the units.
5) Gross volume of a masonry
unit shall be equal to the actual length of the unit multiplied by
the actual height of the unit multiplied by the actual thickness of
the unit.
6) Where all the core
spaces in a wall of hollow concrete masonry or hollow-core precast
concrete units are filled with grout, mortar, or loose fill materials
such as expanded slag, burned clay or shale (rotary kiln process),
vermiculite or perlite, the equivalent thickness rating of the wall
shall be considered to be the same as that of a wall of solid units,
or a solid wall of the same concrete type and the same overall thickness.
7) The equivalent thickness
of hollow-core concrete slabs and panels having a uniform thickness
and cores of constant cross section throughout their length shall
be obtained by dividing the net cross-sectional area of the slab or
panel by its width.
8) The equivalent thickness
of concrete panels with tapered cross sections shall be the cross
section determined at a distance of 2 t or 150
mm, whichever is less, from the point of minimum thickness,
where t is the minimum thickness.
9) Except as permitted
in
Sentence (10), the equivalent thickness of concrete panels with ribbed or undulating
surfaces shall be
- ta for s less than or equal
to 2 t,
- t + (4 t/s - 1)(ta - t) for
s less than 4 t and greater than 2 t, and
- t for s greater than or equal to 4 t
where
t= minimum thickness of panel,
ta= average thickness of panel (unit cross-sectional area divided
by unit width), and
s= centre to centre spacing of ribs or undulations.
10) Where the total thickness
of a panel described in
Sentence (9), exceeds 2 t, only that portion of the panel which is less than 2 t from the non-ribbed surface
shall be considered for the purpose of the calculations in
Sentence (9).
D-1.7. Contribution of Plaster or Gypsum Wallboard Finish to Fire Resistance of Masonry or
Concrete
D-1.7.1. Determination of Contribution
1) Except as provided
in
Sentences (2), (3), (4) and (5), the contribution of a plaster or gypsum wallboard finish to the fire resistance of a masonry or concrete
wall, floor or roof assembly shall be determined by multiplying the
actual thickness of the finish by the factor shown in
Table D-1.7.1., depending on the type of masonry or concrete to which it is applied. This corrected thickness shall then be included
in the equivalent thickness as described in
Subsection D-1.6.
Table D-1.7.1. Multiplying Factors for Masonry or Concrete Construction Forming part of Sentence (1) |
Type of Surface
Protection |
Type
of Masonry or Concrete |
Solid Clay Brick,
Unit Masonry and Monolithic Concrete, Type N or S |
Cored Clay Brick, Clay
Tile, Monolithic Concrete, Type L40S and Unit Masonry, Type L120S
|
Concrete Unit Masonry,
Type L1 or L220S and Monolithic Concrete, Type
L
|
Concrete Unit Masonry,
Type L2 |
Portland cement-sand
plaster or lime sand plaster |
1 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.50 |
Gypsum-sand plaster,
wood fibred gypsum plaster or gypsum wallboard |
1.25 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Vermiculite or perlite
aggregate plaster |
1.75 |
1.5 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
2) Where a plaster
or gypsum wallboard finish is applied to a concrete or masonry wall,
the calculated fire-resistance rating of the assembly shall not exceed
twice the fire-resistance rating provided by the masonry or concrete
because structural collapse may occur before the limiting temperature
is reached on the surface of the non-fire-exposed side of the assembly.
3) Where a plaster or
gypsum wallboard finish is applied only on the non-fire-exposed side
of a hollow clay tile wall, no increase in fire resistance is permitted
because structural collapse may occur before the limiting temperature
is reached on the surface of the non-fire-exposed side of the assembly.
4) The contribution to
fire resistance of a plaster or gypsum wallboard finish applied to
the non-fire-exposed side of a monolithic concrete or unit masonry
wall shall be determined in conformance with
Sentence (1), but shall not exceed 0.5 times the contribution of the concrete or masonry wall.
5) When applied to the
fire-exposed side, the contribution of a gypsum lath and plaster or
gypsum wallboard finish to the fire resistance of masonry or concrete
wall, floor or roof assemblies shall be determined from
Table D-2.3.4.A. or D-2.3.4.B. D-1.7.2. Plaster
2) Portland cement-sand
plaster shall be applied in 2 coats: the first coat containing
1 part Portland cement to 2 parts sand by volume, and
the second coat containing 1 part Portland cement to 3 parts sand by volume.
3) Plaster finish shall
be securely bonded to the wall or ceiling.
4) The thickness of plaster
finish applied directly to monolithic concrete without metal lath
shall not exceed 10 mm on ceilings and 16 mm on walls.
5) Where the thickness
of plaster finish on masonry or concrete exceeds 38 mm, wire mesh with 1.57 mm diam wire and openings not
exceeding 50 mm by 50 mm shall be embedded
midway in the plaster.
D-1.7.3. Attachment of Wallboard and Lath
Gypsum wallboard and gypsum lath finishes applied to masonry
or concrete walls shall be secured to wood or steel furring members
in conformance with
Article D-2.3.9.D-1.7.4. Sample Calculations
The following examples are included as a guide to the method of calculating the fire
resistance of concrete or hollow masonry walls with plaster or gypsum wallboard protection:
Example (1)
A 3 h fire-resistance rating is required for a monolithic concrete wall of Type S aggregate
with a 20 mm gypsum-sand plaster finish on metal lath on each face.
- The minimum equivalent thickness of Type S monolithic concrete needed to give a 3 h fire-resistance rating = 158 mm (Table D-2.1.1.).
- Since the gypsum-sand plaster finish is applied on metal lath, D-1.7.1.(5) does not apply. Therefore, the contribution to the equivalent thickness of the wall of 20 mm gypsum-sand plaster on each face of the concrete is 20 × 1.25 = 25 mm (see D-1.7.1.(1) to (4)).
- The total contribution of the plaster finishes is 2 × 25 = 50 mm.
- The minimum equivalent thickness of concrete required is 158 mm - 50 mm = 108 mm.
- From Table D-2.1.1., the 108 mm equivalent thickness of monolithic concrete gives a contribution of less than 1.5 h. This is less than half the rating of the assembly so that the conditions in D-1.7.1.(2) are not met. Thus the equivalent thickness of monolithic concrete must be increased to 112 mm to give 1.5 h contribution.
- The total equivalent thickness of the plaster finishes can then be reduced to 158 mm - 112 mm = 46 mm.
- The total actual thickness of the plaster finishes required is therefore 46 mm ÷ 1.25 = 37 mm (D-1.7.1.(1) to (4)) or 18.5 mm on each face.
- Since the thickness of the plaster finish on each face exceeds 16 mm, metal lath is still required (D-1.7.2.(4)).
- Since this wall is symmetrical with plaster on both faces, the contribution to fire
resistance of the plaster finish on either face is limited to one-quarter of the wall
rating by virtue of D-1.7.1.(2). Under these circumstances, the conditions in D-1.7.1.(4) are automatically met.
Example (2)
A 2 h fire-resistance rating is required for a hollow masonry wall of Type N concrete with
a 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard finish on each face.
- Since gypsum wallboard is used, D-1.7.1.(5) applies. The 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard finish on the fire-exposed side is, therefore, assigned 25 min by using Table D-2.3.4.A.
- The fire resistance required of the balance of the assembly is 120 min - 25 min = 95 min.
- Interpolating between 1.5 h and 2 h in Table D-2.1.1. for 95 min fire resistance, the equivalent thickness for hollow masonry units required is 95 mm + (18 mm × 5/30) = 95 mm + 3 mm = 98 mm.
- The contribution to the equivalent thickness of the wall of the 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard finish on the non-fire-exposed side using Table D-1.7.1. = 12.7 × 1.25 = 16 mm.
- Equivalent thickness required of concrete masonry unit = 98 - 16 = 82 mm.
- The fire-resistance rating of a concrete masonry wall having an equivalent thickness
of 82 mm = 1 h for 73 mm + (9 mm × 30/22) = 1 h 12 min.
As this is more than 1 h, the conditions of
D-1.7.1.(2) are met and the rating of 2 h is justified.
Example (3)
A 2 h fire-resistance rating is required for a hollow masonry exterior wall of Type L
220S concrete with a 15.9 mm Type X gypsum wallboard finish on the non-fire-exposed side only.
- According to Table D-2.1.1., the minimum equivalent thickness for Type L220S concrete masonry units needed to achieve a 2 h rating is 94 mm.
- Since gypsum wallboard is not used on the fire-exposed side, D-1.7.1.(5) does not apply. The contribution to the equivalent thickness of the wall by the 15.9 mm Type X gypsum wallboard finish applied on the non-fire-exposed side is 15.9 × 1 ≈ 16 mm (see D-1.7.1.(1) and Table D-1.7.1.).
- Therefore, the equivalent thickness required of the concrete masonry unit is 94 - 16 = 78 mm.
- The contribution to fire resistance of a 78 mm L 220S concrete hollow masonry unit is 85 min. The contribution of the Type X gypsum wallboard finish is 120 - 85 = 35 min, which does not exceed half the 85 min contribution of the masonry unit or 42.5 min, so that the conditions in D-1.7.1.(4) are met.
- The rating of the wall (120 min) is less than twice the contribution of the masonry unit (170 min) so that the conditions in D-1.7.1.(2) are also met.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-1.7.4. Sample Calculations
The following examples are included as a guide to the method of calculating the fire
resistance of concrete or hollow masonry walls with plaster or gypsum wallboard protection:
Example (1)
A 3 h fire-resistance rating is required for a monolithic concrete wall of Type S aggregate
with a 20 mm gypsum-sand plaster finish on metal lath on each face.
- The minimum equivalent thickness of Type S monolithic concrete needed to give a 3 h fire-resistance rating = 158 mm (Table D-2.1.1.).
- Since the gypsum-sand plaster finish is applied on metal lath, D-1.7.1.(5) does not apply. Therefore, the contribution to the equivalent thickness of the wall
of 20 mm gypsum-sand plaster on each face of the concrete is 20 × 1.25 = 25 mm (see D-1.7.1.(1) to (4)).
- The total contribution of the plaster finishes is 2 × 25 = 50 mm.
- The minimum equivalent thickness of concrete required is 158 mm - 50 mm = 108 mm.
- From Table D-2.1.1., the 108 mm equivalent thickness of monolithic concrete gives a contribution of less than 1.5 h. This is less than half the rating of the assembly so that the conditions in D-1.7.1.(2) are not met. Thus the equivalent thickness of monolithic concrete must be increased
to 112 mm to give 1.5 h contribution.
- The total equivalent thickness of the plaster finishes can then be reduced to 158 mm - 112 mm = 46 mm.
- The total actual thickness of the plaster finishes required is therefore 46 mm ÷ 1.25 = 37 mm (D-1.7.1.(1) to (4)) or 18.5 mm on each face.
- Since the thickness of the plaster finish on each face exceeds 16 mm, metal lath is still required (D-1.7.2.(4)).
- Since this wall is symmetrical with plaster on both faces, the contribution to fire
resistance of the plaster finish on either face is limited to one-quarter of the wall
rating by virtue of D-1.7.1.(2). Under these circumstances, the conditions in D-1.7.1.(4) are automatically met.
Example (2)
A 2 h fire-resistance rating is required for a hollow masonry wall of Type N concrete with
a 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard finish on each face.
- Since gypsum wallboard is used, D-1.7.1.(5) applies. The 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard finish on the fire-exposed side is, therefore, assigned 25 min by using Table D-2.3.4.A.
- The fire resistance required of the balance of the assembly is 120 min - 25 min = 95 min.
- Interpolating between 1.5 h and 2 h in Table D-2.1.1. for 95 min fire resistance, the equivalent thickness for hollow masonry units required is 95 mm + (18 mm × 5/30) = 95 mm + 3 mm = 98 mm.
- The contribution to the equivalent thickness of the wall of the 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard finish on the non-fire-exposed side using Table D-1.7.1. = 12.7 × 1.25 = 16 mm.
- Equivalent thickness required of concrete masonry unit = 98 - 16 = 82 mm.
- The fire-resistance rating of a concrete masonry wall having an equivalent thickness
of 82 mm = 1 h for 73 mm + (9 mm × 30/22) = 1 h 12 min.
Example (2)
A 2 h fire-resistance rating is required for a hollow masonry wall of Type N concrete with
a 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard finish on each face.
- Since gypsum wallboard is used, D-1.7.1.(5) applies. The 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard finish on the fire-exposed side is, therefore, assigned 25 min by using Table D-2.3.4.A.
- The fire resistance required of the balance of the assembly is 120 min - 25 min = 95 min.
- Interpolating between 1.5 h and 2 h in Table D-2.1.1. for 95 min fire resistance, the equivalent thickness for hollow masonry units required is 95 mm + (18 mm × 5/30) = 95 mm + 3 mm = 98 mm.
- The contribution to the equivalent thickness of the wall of the 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard finish on the non-fire-exposed side using Table D-1.7.1. = 12.7 × 1.25 = 16 mm.
- Equivalent thickness required of concrete masonry unit = 98 - 16 = 82 mm.
- The fire-resistance rating of a concrete masonry wall having an equivalent thickness
of 82 mm = 1 h for 73 mm + (9 mm × 30/22) = 1 h 12 min.
As this is more than 1 h, the conditions of D-1.7.1.(2) are met and the rating of 2 h is justified.
Example (3)
A 2 h fire-resistance rating is required for a hollow masonry exterior wall of Type L
220S concrete with a 15.9 mm Type X gypsum wallboard finish on the non-fire-exposed side only.
- According to Table D-2.1.1., the minimum equivalent thickness for Type L220S concrete masonry units needed to achieve a 2 h rating is 94 mm.
- Since gypsum wallboard is not used on the fire-exposed side, D-1.7.1.(5) does not apply. The contribution to the equivalent thickness of the wall by the 15.9 mm Type X gypsum wallboard finish applied on the non-fire-exposed side is 15.9 × 1 ≈ 16 mm (see D-1.7.1.(1) and Table D-1.7.1.).
- Therefore, the equivalent thickness required of the concrete masonry unit is 94 - 16 = 78 mm.
- The contribution to fire resistance of a 78 mm L 220S concrete hollow masonry unit is 85 min. The contribution of the Type X gypsum wallboard finish is 120 - 85 = 35 min, which does not exceed half the 85 min contribution of the masonry unit or 42.5 min, so that the conditions in D-1.7.1.(4) are met.
- The rating of the wall (120 min) is less than twice the contribution of the masonry unit (170 min) so that the conditions in D-1.7.1.(2) are also met.
D-1.8. Tests on Floors and Roofs
D-1.8.1. Exposure to Fire
All tests relate to the performance of a floor assembly or floor-ceiling
or roof-ceiling assembly above a fire. It has been assumed on the
basis of experience that fire on top will take a longer time to penetrate
the floor than one below, and that the fire resistance in such a situation
will be at least equal to that obtained from below in the standard
test.
D-1.9. Moisture Content
D-1.9.1. Effect of Moisture
1) The moisture content
of building materials at the time of fire test may have a significant
influence on the measured fire resistance. In general, an increase
in the moisture content should result in an increase in the fire resistance,
though in some materials the presence of moisture may produce disruptive
effects and early collapse of the assembly.
2) Moisture content is
now controlled in standard fire test methods and is generally recorded
in the test reports. In earlier tests, moisture content was not always
properly determined.
D-1.10. Permanence and Durability
D-1.10.1. Test Conditions
The ratings in this Appendix relate to tested assemblies and
do not take into account possible changes or deterioration in use
of the materials. The standard fire test measures the fire resistance
of a sample building assembly erected for the test. No judgment as
to the permanence or durability of the assembly is made in the test.
D-1.11. Steel Structural Members
D-1.11.1. Thermal Protection
Since the ability of a steel structural member to sustain the
loading for which it was designed may be impaired because of elevated
temperatures, measures shall be taken to provide thermal protection.
The fire-resistance ratings, as established by the provisions of this
Appendix, indicate the time periods during which the effects of heat
on protected steel structural members are considered to be within
acceptable limits.
D-1.12. Restraint Effects
D-1.12.1. Effect on Fire-Resistance Ratings
In fire tests of floors, roofs and beams, it is necessary to
state whether the rating applies to a thermally restrained or thermally
unrestrained assembly. Edge restraint of a floor or roof, structural
continuity, or end restraint of a beam can significantly extend the
time before collapse in a standard test. A restrained condition is
one in which expansion or rotation at the supports of a load-carrying
element resulting from the effects of fire is resisted by forces or
moments external to the element. An unrestrained condition is one
in which the load-carrying element is free to thermally expand and
rotate at its supports.
Whether an assembly or structural member can be considered thermally
restrained or thermally unrestrained depends on the type of construction
and location in a building. Guidance on this subject can be found
in Appendix A1 of
CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials.” Different acceptance criteria also apply to thermally unrestrained and thermally restrained assemblies. These are described
in
CAN/ULC-S101.
The ratings for floors, roofs, and beams in this Appendix meet
the conditions of
CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,” for thermally unrestrained specimens. In a thermally restrained condition, the structural element or assembly would probably have
greater fire resistance, but the extent of this increase can be determined
only by reference to behavior in a standard test.
Section D-2. Fire-Resistance Ratings
D-2.1. Masonry and Concrete Walls
D-2.1.1. Minimum Equivalent Thickness for Fire-Resistance Rating
The minimum thicknesses of unit masonry and monolithic concrete
walls are shown in
Table D-2.1.1. Hollow masonry units and hollow-core concrete panels shall be rated on the basis of equivalent
thickness as described in
Subsection D-1.6.
Table D-2.1.1. Minimum Equivalent Thicknesses(1) of Unit Masonry and Monolithic Concrete Walls Loadbearing and Non-Loadbearing, mm Forming part of Article D-2.1.1. |
Type
of Wall |
Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Solid brick units (80% solid and
over), actual overall thickness
|
63 |
76 |
90 |
108 |
128 |
152 |
178 |
Cored brick units and hollow tile
units (less than 80% solid), equivalent thickness
|
50 |
60 |
72 |
86 |
102 |
122 |
142 |
Solid and hollow concrete masonry
units, equivalent thickness
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Type S or N concrete(2) | 44 |
59 |
73 |
95 |
113 |
142 |
167 |
Type L120S
concrete |
42 |
54 |
66 |
87 |
102 |
129 |
152 |
Type L1 concrete |
42 |
54 |
64 |
82 |
97 |
122 |
143 |
Type L220S
concrete |
42 |
54 |
64 |
81 |
94 |
116 |
134 |
Type L2 concrete |
42 |
54 |
63 |
79 |
91 |
111 |
127 |
Monolithic concrete and concrete
panels, equivalent thickness
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Type S concrete |
60 |
77 |
90 |
112 |
130 |
158 |
180 |
Type N concrete |
59 |
74 |
87 |
108 |
124 |
150 |
171 |
Type L40S or Type L
concrete |
49 |
62 |
72 |
89 |
103 |
124 |
140 |
D-2.1.2. Applicability of Ratings
2) Ratings for walls with a thickness less than the minimum
thickness prescribed for loadbearing walls in this

By-law

apply to non-loadbearing walls only.
3) Masonry cavity walls (consisting of 2 wythes of masonry with
an air space between) that are loaded to a maximum allowable compressive stress of
380 kPa have a fire resistance at least as great as that of a solid
wall of a thickness equal to the sum of the equivalent thicknesses of the 2
wythes.
4) Masonry cavity walls that are loaded to a compressive stress
exceeding 380 kPa are not considered to be within the scope of this
Appendix.
5) A masonry wall consisting of 2 types of masonry units,
either bonded together or in the form of a cavity wall, shall be considered to have
a fire-resistance rating equal to that which would apply if the whole of the wall
were of the material that gives the lesser rating.
6) A non-loadbearing cavity wall made up of 2 precast concrete
panels with an air space or insulation in the cavity between them shall be
considered to have a fire-resistance rating as great as that of a solid wall of a
thickness equal to the sum of the thicknesses of the 2 panels.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-2.1.2. Applicability of Ratings
1) Ratings obtained as described in Article D-2.1.1.
apply to either loadbearing or non-loadbearing walls, except for walls described in
Sentences (2) to (6).
2) Ratings for walls with a thickness less than the minimum
thickness prescribed for loadbearing walls in this
By-lawCode apply to non-loadbearing walls
only.
3) Masonry cavity walls (consisting of 2 wythes of masonry with
an air space between) that are loaded to a maximum allowable compressive stress of
380 kPa have a fire resistance at least as great as that of a solid
wall of a thickness equal to the sum of the equivalent thicknesses of the 2
wythes.
4) Masonry cavity walls that are loaded to a compressive stress
exceeding 380 kPa are not considered to be within the scope of this
Appendix.
5) A masonry wall consisting of 2 types of masonry units,
either bonded together or in the form of a cavity wall, shall be considered to have
a fire-resistance rating equal to that which would apply if the whole of the wall
were of the material that gives the lesser rating.
6) A non-loadbearing cavity wall made up of 2 precast concrete
panels with an air space or insulation in the cavity between them shall be
considered to have a fire-resistance rating as great as that of a solid wall of a
thickness equal to the sum of the thicknesses of the 2 panels.
D-2.1.3. Framed Beams and Joists
Beams and joists that are framed into a masonry or concrete
fire separation shall not reduce the thickness of the fire separation
to less than the equivalent thickness required for the fire separation.
D-2.1.4. Credit for Plaster Thickness
On monolithic walls and walls of unit masonry, the full plaster
finish on one or both faces multiplied by the factor shown in
Table D-1.7.1. shall be included in the wall thickness shown in
Table D-2.1.1., under the conditions and using the methods described in
Subsection D-1.7.D-2.1.5. Walls Exposed to Fire on Both Sides
1) Except as permitted in
Sentence (2), portions of loadbearing reinforced concrete walls, which do not form a complete fire separation and thus may
be exposed to fire on both sides simultaneously, shall have minimum dimensions and
minimum cover to steel reinforcement in conformance with
Articles D-2.8.2. to
D-2.8.5. 2) A concrete wall exposed to fire from both sides as described
in
Sentence (1) has a fire-resistance rating of 2 h if the following conditions are met:
- its equivalent thickness is not less than
200 mm,
- its aspect ratio (width/thickness) is not
less than 4.0,
- the minimum thickness of concrete cover
over the steel reinforcement specified in Clause (d) is not less than
50 mm,
- each face of the wall is reinforced with
both vertical and horizontal steel reinforcement in conformance with either
Clause 10 or Clause 14 of CAN/CSA-A23.3, “Design of Concrete Structures,”
- the structural design of the wall is
governed by the minimum eccentricity (15 + 0.03h) specified in Clause
10.15.3.1 of CAN/CSA-A23.3, “Design of Concrete Structures,” and
- the effective length of the wall,
klu, is not more than 3.7 m
where
lu= unsupported length of the wall in metres.
D-2.2. Reinforced and Prestressed Concrete Floor and Roof Slabs
D-2.2.1. Assignment of Rating
1) Floors and roofs in a fire test are assigned a
fire-resistance rating which relates to the time that an average temperature rise
of
140°C or a maximum temperature rise of 180 °C at any
location is recorded on the unexposed side, or the time required for collapse to
occur, whichever is the lesser. The thickness of concrete shown in
Table D-2.2.1.A. shall be required to resist the transfer of heat during the fire resistance period shown.
Table D-2.2.1.A. Minimum Thickness of Reinforced and Prestressed Concrete
Floor or Roof Slabs, mm Forming part of Sentence (1) |
Type
of Concrete |
Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Type S concrete |
60 |
77 |
90 |
112 |
130 |
158 |
180 |
Type N concrete |
59 |
74 |
87 |
108 |
124 |
150 |
171 |
Type L40S or Type L concrete |
49 |
62 |
72 |
89 |
103 |
124 |
140 |
2) The concrete cover over the reinforcement and steel tendons
shown in
Table D-2.2.1.B. shall be required to maintain the integrity of the structure and prevent collapse during the same
period.
Table D-2.2.1.B. Minimum Concrete Cover over Reinforcement in Concrete Slabs,
mm Forming part of Sentence (2) |
Type
of Concrete |
Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Type S, N, L40S or L concrete |
20 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
25 |
32 |
39 |
Prestressed concrete
slabs Type S, N, L40S or L concrete |
20 |
25 |
25 |
32 |
39 |
50 |
64 |
D-2.2.2. Floors with Hollow Units
The fire resistance of floors containing hollow units may be determined on the
basis of equivalent thickness as described in
Subsection D-1.6.D-2.2.3. Composite Slabs
1) For composite concrete floor and roof slabs consisting of
one layer of Type S or N concrete and another layer of Type L40S or L concrete in
which the minimum thickness of both the top and bottom layers is not less than
25 mm, the combined fire-resistance rating may be determined using
the following expressions:
- when the base layer consists of Type S or N
concrete,
- when the base layer consists of Type L40S
or L concrete,
where
R= fire resistance of slab, h,
t= total thickness of slab, mm, and
d= thickness of base layer, mm.
2) If the base course described in
Sentence (1) is covered by a top layer of material other than Type S, N, L40S or L concrete, the top course thickness may
be converted to an equivalent concrete thickness by multiplying the actual thickness
by the appropriate factor listed in
Table D-2.2.3.A. This equivalent concrete thickness may be added to the thickness of the base course
and the fire-resistance rating calculated using
Table D-2.2.1.A. 3) The minimum concrete cover under the main reinforcement for
composite concrete floor and roof slabs with base slabs less than 100
mm thick shall conform to
Table D-2.2.3.B. For base slabs 100 mm or more thick, the minimum cover thickness
requirements of
Table D-2.2.1.B. shall apply.
4) Where the top layer of a 2-layer slab is less than 25
mm thick, the fire-resistance rating for the slab shall be calculated as
though the entire slab were made up of the type of concrete with the lesser fire
resistance.
Table D-2.2.3.A. Multiplying Factors for Equivalent Thickness Forming part of Sentence (2) |
Top Course
Material |
Base Slab Normal Density
Concrete (Type S or N) |
Base Slab Low Density
Concrete (Type L40S or L) |
Gypsum wallboard |
3 |
2.25 |
Cellular concrete (mass
density 400 – 560 kg/m3 )
|
2 |
1.50 |
Vermiculite and
perlite concrete (mass density 560 kg/m3 or
less) |
1.75 |
1.50 |
Portland cement with sand
aggregate
|
1 |
0.75 |
Terrazzo |
1 |
0.75 |
Table D-2.2.3.B. Minimum Concrete Cover under Bottom Reinforcement in Composite
Concrete Slabs, mm Forming part of Sentence (3) |
Base
Slab Concrete Type |
Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Reinforced concrete |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Type S, N, L40S or L |
15 |
15 |
20 |
25 |
30 |
40 |
55 |
Prestressed concrete |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Type S |
20 |
25 |
30 |
40 |
50 |
65 |
75 |
Type N |
20 |
20 |
25 |
35 |
45 |
60 |
70 |
Type L40S or L |
20 |
20 |
25 |
30 |
40 |
50 |
60 |
D-2.2.4. Contribution of Plaster Finish
1) The contribution of
plaster finish securely fastened to the underside of concrete may
be taken into account in floor or roof slabs under the conditions
and using the methods described in
Subsection D-1.7. 2) Plaster finish on the
underside of concrete floors or roofs may be used in lieu of concrete
cover referred to in
D-2.2.1.(2) under the conditions and using the methods described in
Subsection D-1.7. D-2.2.5. Concrete Cover
1) In prestressed concrete
slab construction, the concrete cover over an individual tendon shall
be the minimum thickness of concrete between the surface of the tendon
and the fire-exposed surface of the slab, except that for ungrouted
ducts the assumed cover thickness shall be the minimum thickness of
concrete between the surface of the duct and the bottom of the slab.
For slabs in which several tendons are used, the cover is assumed
to be the average of those of individual tendons, except that the
cover for any individual tendon shall be not less than half of the
value given in
Table D-2.2.1.B. nor less than 20 mm.
2) Except as provided
in
Sentence (3), in post-tensioned prestressed concrete slabs, the concrete cover to
the tendon at the anchor shall be not less than 15 mm greater than the minimum cover required by
Sentence (1). The minimum concrete cover to the anchorage bearing plate and to the end of the tendon, if it projects
beyond the bearing plate, shall be 20 mm.
3) The requirements of
Sentence (2) do not apply to those portions of slabs not likely to be exposed to fire, such
as the ends and tops.
D-2.2.6. Minimum Dimensions for Cover
Minimum dimensions and cover to steel tendons of prestressed
concrete beams shall conform to
Subsection D-2.10.D-2.3. Wood and Steel Framed Walls, Floors and Roofs
D-2.3.1. Maximum Fire-Resistance Rating
The fire-resistance rating of walls constructed of wood studs
or light gauge steel studs, floors constructed of wood joists or open
web steel joists, and roofs constructed of wood joists, pre-manufactured
wood trusses or open web steel joists, can be determined for ratings
up to 90 min from the information in
Subsection D-2.3.D-2.3.2. Loadbearing Conditions
1) The ratings derived
from the information in
Subsection D-2.3. apply to both loadbearing and non-loadbearing wood framed walls, to non-loadbearing steel framed walls and to loadbearing floors and
roofs.
D-2.3.3. Limitations of Component Additive Method
(See D-6., Background Information.)1) The fire-resistance
rating of a framed assembly depends primarily on the time during which
the membrane on the fire-exposed side remains in place.
2) The assigned times
in
D-2.3.4.(2), (3) and (4) are not intended to be construed as the fire-resistance ratings of the individual components of an
assembly. These assigned times are the individual contributions to
the overall fire-resistance rating of the complete assembly.
3) Wallboard membranes
are permitted to be installed in multiple layers only as listed in
Table D-2.3.4.A. (double 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard).
D-2.3.4. Method of Calculation
1) The fire-resistance rating of a framed assembly may be calculated by adding the time
assigned in
Sentence (2) for the membrane on the fire-exposed side plus the time assigned in
Sentence (3) for the framing members plus the time assigned in
Sentence (4) for additional protective measures such as the inclusion of insulation or the reinforcement of a membrane.
2) The times which have been assigned to membranes on the fire-exposed side of the assembly,
based on their ability to remain in place during fire tests, are listed in
Tables D-2.3.4.A. and D-2.3.4.B. (This is not to be confused with the fire-resistance rating of the membrane, which also takes into account the rise in temperature on the unexposed side of the membrane.
[See
D-2.3.3.(2).])
Table D-2.3.4.A. Time Assigned to Wallboard Membranes on Fire-Exposed Side Forming part of Article D-2.3.4. |
Description of Finish |
Time, min |
11.0 mm Douglas Fir plywood phenolic
bonded
|
10(1) |
14.0 mm Douglas Fir plywood phenolic
bonded
|
15(1) |
12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard |
25 |
15.9 mm Type X gypsum wallboard |
40 |
Double 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard |
80(2) |
Table D-2.3.4.B. Time Assigned for Contribution of Lath and Plaster Protection on Fire-Exposed
Side, min(1) Forming part of Article D-2.3.4. |
Type of Lath |
Plaster
Thickness, mm |
Type of Plaster Finish |
Portland Cement and
Sand(2) or Lime and Sand |
Gypsum and Sand or Gypsum
Wood Fibred |
Gypsum and Perlite or
Gypsum and Vermiculite |
9.5
mm gypsum
|
13 |
— |
35 |
55 |
16 |
— |
40 |
65 |
19 |
— |
50 |
80(1) |
Metal |
19 |
20 |
50 |
80(1) |
23 |
25 |
65 |
80(1) |
26 |
30 |
80 |
80(1) |
3) When the membrane on the fire-exposed side of a framed assembly falls off, there is
a brief period before structural failure occurs during which the studs or joists are
exposed directly to flame.
Table D-2.3.4.C. lists the times which have been assigned to the framing members based on the time involved between failure of the membrane and collapse of the assembly.
Table D-2.3.4.C. Time Assigned for Contribution of Wood or Light Steel Frame Forming part of Article D-2.3.4. |
Description of Frame |
Time Assigned to Frame, min |
Wood studs 400 mm o.c. maximum
|
20 |
Wood studs 600 mm o.c. maximum
|
15 |
Steel studs 400 mm o.c. maximum
|
10 |
Wood floor and wood roof joists 400 mm o.c. maximum
|
10 |
Open web steel joist floors
and roofs with ceiling supports 400 mm o.c. maximum
|
10 |
Wood roof and wood floor truss
assemblies 600 mm o.c. maximum
|
5 |
4) Preformed insulation of glass, rock or slag fibre provides additional protection to
wood studs by shielding the studs from exposure to the fire and thus delaying the
time of collapse. The use of reinforcement in the membrane exposed to fire also adds
to the fire resistance by extending the time to failure.
Table D-2.3.4.D. shows the time increments that may be added to the fire resistance if these features are incorporated in the assembly.
Table D-2.3.4.D. Time Assigned for Additional Protection Forming part of Article D-2.3.4. |
Description of Additional Protection |
Time Assigned, min |
Add to the fire-resistance rating of wood stud walls, sheathed with gypsum wallboard
or lath and plaster, if the spaces between the studs are filled with preformed insulation
of rock or slag fibres conforming to CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings,” and with a mass of not less than 1.22 kg/m2 of wall surface(1) |
15 |
Add to the fire-resistance rating of non-loadbearing wood stud walls, sheathed with
gypsum wallboard or lath and plaster, if the spaces between the studs are filled with
preformed insulation of glass fibres conforming to CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings,” and having a mass of not less than 0.6 kg/m2 of wall surface
|
5 |
Add to the fire-resistance rating of plaster on gypsum lath ceilings if 0.76 mm diam wire mesh with 25 mm by 25 mm openings or 1.57 mm diam diagonal wire reinforcing at 250 mm o.c. is placed between lath and plaster
|
30 |
Add to the fire-resistance rating of plaster on gypsum lath ceilings if 76 mm wide metal lath strips are placed over joints between lath and plaster
|
10 |
Add to the fire-resistance rating of plaster on 9.5 mm thick gypsum lath ceilings (Table D-2.3.4.B.) if supports for lath are 300 mm o.c.
|
10 |
D-2.3.5. Considerations for Various Types of Assemblies
1) Interior vertical fire separations shall be rated for exposure to fire on each side,
and a membrane shall be provided on both sides of the assembly. In the calculation
of the fire-resistance rating of such an assembly, however, no contribution to fire
resistance can be assigned for a membrane on the non-fire-exposed side, since this
membrane may fail when the structural members fail.
2) When an exterior wall assembly is required to be rated from the interior side only,
such wall assemblies shall have an outer membrane consisting of sheathing and exterior
cladding with spaces between the studs filled with insulation conforming to
CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings,” and having a mass of not less than 1.22 kg/m
2 of wall surface.
3) In the case of a floor or roof, the standard test provides only for testing for fire
exposure from below. Floor or roof assemblies of wood, light-gauge steel members or
open-web steel joist framing shall have an upper membrane consisting of a subfloor
and finish floor conforming to
Table D-2.3.5. or any other membrane that has a contribution to fire resistance of not less than 15 min in
Table D-2.3.4.A. For the purposes of this requirement, it is not necessary to comply with note (1) to
Table D-2.3.4.A.
Table D-2.3.5. Flooring or Roofing Membranes for Wood, Cold Formed Steel
Members or Open-Web Steel Joists Forming part of Article D-2.3.5. |
Type of Assembly |
Structural Members |
Subfloor or Roof Deck |
Finish Flooring or Roofing |
Floor |
Wood or steel joists
and wood trusses
|
12.5 mm plywood or 17 mm T & G softwood
|
Hardwood
or softwood flooring on building paper |
Resilient
flooring, parquet floor, felted synthetic fibre floor coverings, carpeting,
or ceramic tile on 8 mm thick panel-type underlay |
Ceramic
tile on 30 mm mortar bed |
Steel joists |
50 mm reinforced
concrete or 50 mm concrete on metal
lath or formed steel sheet, or 40 mm reinforced gypsum-fibre concrete on 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard
|
Finish flooring |
Roof |
Wood or steel joists and wood
trusses
|
12.5 mm plywood
or 17 mm T & G softwood
|
Finish roofing material with or without
insulation
|
Steel joists |
50 mm reinforced
concrete or 50 mm concrete on metal lath or formed steel
sheet, or 40 mm reinforced gypsum-fibre concrete on 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard
|
Finish roofing material with or without
insulation
|
4) Insulation used in the cavities of a wood floor assembly will not reduce the assigned
fire-resistance rating of the assembly provided:
- the insulation is preformed of rock, slag or glass fibre conforming to CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings,” and having a mass of not more than 1.1 kg/m2 and is installed adjacent to the bottom edge of the framing member, directly above steel furring channels,
- the gypsum wallboard ceiling membrane is attached to
- wood trusses in conformance with D-2.3.9.(2) by way of steel drywall furring channels spaced not more than 400 mm o.c., and the channels are secured to each bottom truss member with a double strand of 1.2 mm galvanized steel wire, or
- wood joists by way of drywall or resilient steel furring channels spaced not more
than 400 mm o.c. in conformance with D-2.3.9.(2) and (3), and
- a steel furring channel is installed midway between each furring channel mentioned
in Clause (b) to provide additional support for the insulation.
D-2.3.6. Framing Members
2) Wood studs and wood roof and floor framing members are
assumed to be not less than 38 mm by 89 mm. Wood trusses
are assumed to consist of wood chord and web framing members and connector plates
fabricated from not less than 1 mm thick galvanized steel with
projecting teeth not less than 8 mm long. Dimensions for dressed lumber
are given in
CSA O141, “Softwood Lumber.” 3) The allowable spans for wood joists listed in
Part 9 of Division B of this

By-law

are provided for floors supporting specific occupancies.
4) Except as otherwise required in this Appendix, metal studs
shall be of galvanized steel not less than 0.5 mm thick, not less than
63 mm wide and with a flange width of not less than 31
mm.
5) Metal studs in walls required to have a fire-resistance
rating shall be installed with not less than 12 mm clearance between
the top of the stud and the top of the runner to allow for expansion in the event
of
fire. Where attachment of the studs is necessary for alignment purposes during
erection, such attachment shall be made to the bottom runners only.
6) Except as required in
D-2.3.5.(4), resilient or drywall furring channels may be used to attach a gypsum wallboard ceiling membrane to a floor or roof assembly. The channels
must be of galvanized steel not less than 0.5 mm thick, placed at a
spacing of not more than 600 mm o.c. perpendicular to the framing
members, with an overlap of not less than 100 mm at splices and a
minimum end clearance between the channels and walls of 15
mm.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-2.3.6. Framing Members
1) The values shown in Tables D-2.3.4.A., D-2.3.4.B. and D-2.3.12. apply to membranes supported on
framing members installed in their conventional orientation and spaced in
conformance with Table D-2.3.4.C.
2) Wood studs and wood roof and floor framing members are
assumed to be not less than 38 mm by 89 mm. Wood trusses
are assumed to consist of wood chord and web framing members and connector plates
fabricated from not less than 1 mm thick galvanized steel with
projecting teeth not less than 8 mm long. Dimensions for dressed lumber
are given in CSA O141, “Softwood Lumber.”
3) The allowable spans for wood joists listed in Part 9 of Division B of this
By-law
Code are provided for floors
supporting specific occupancies.
4) Except as otherwise required in this Appendix, metal studs
shall be of galvanized steel not less than 0.5 mm thick, not less than
63 mm wide and with a flange width of not less than 31
mm.
5) Metal studs in walls required to have a fire-resistance
rating shall be installed with not less than 12 mm clearance between
the top of the stud and the top of the runner to allow for expansion in the event
of
fire. Where attachment of the studs is necessary for alignment purposes during
erection, such attachment shall be made to the bottom runners only.
6) Except as required in D-2.3.5.(4), resilient or drywall furring channels may be used to
attach a gypsum wallboard ceiling membrane to a floor or roof assembly. The channels
must be of galvanized steel not less than 0.5 mm thick, placed at a
spacing of not more than 600 mm o.c. perpendicular to the framing
members, with an overlap of not less than 100 mm at splices and a
minimum end clearance between the channels and walls of 15
mm.
D-2.3.7. Plaster Finish
The thickness of plaster finish shall be measured from the face
of gypsum or metal lath.
D-2.3.8. Edge Support for Wallboard
Gypsum wallboard installed over framing or furring shall be
installed so that all edges are supported, except that 15.9
mm Type X gypsum wallboard may be installed horizontally with
the horizontal joints unsupported when framing members are at 400 mm o.c. maximum.
D-2.3.9. Membrane Fastening
Table D-2.3.9. Minimum Fastener Penetrations for Membrane Protection on
Wood Frame, mm Forming part of Article D-2.3.9. |
Type
of Membrane |
Assigned Contribution of Membrane to Fire Resistance(1), min |
5 – 25 |
30 – 35 |
40 |
50 |
55 – 70 |
80 |
Single layer |
20 |
29 |
32 |
— |
— |
— |
Double layer |
20 |
20 |
20 |
29 |
35 |
44 |
Gypsum lath |
20 |
20 |
23 |
23 |
29 |
29 |
4) Where a membrane
is applied in 2 layers, the fastener penetrations described in
Table D-2.3.9. shall apply to the base layer. Fasteners for the face layer shall penetrate not less than 20 mm into wood
supports.
5) Where adhesives are
used to attach the face layer of gypsum wallboard in a double layer
application for walls, the top and bottom of the face layer shall
be secured to the supports by mechanical fasteners having lengths
as required in
Sentences (2) and (4) and spaced not more than 150 mm o.c. for wood supports and not more than 200 mm o.c. for steel supports.
D-2.3.10. Ceiling Membrane Openings – Combustible Construction
1) Except as permitted in
Article D-2.3.12., where a floor or roof assembly of combustible construction is assigned a
fire-resistance rating on the basis of
Subsection D-2.3. and incorporates a ceiling membrane described in
Table D-2.3.4.A. or D-2.3.4.B., the ceiling membrane may be penetrated by openings leading to ducts within concealed spaces above the membrane
provided:
- the assembly is not required to have a
fire-resistance rating in excess of 1 h,
- the area of any openings does not exceed
930 cm2 (see Sentence (2)),
- the aggregate area of openings does not
exceed 1
per cent
of the ceiling area of the fire compartment,
- the depth of the concealed space above the
ceiling is not less than 230 mm,
- no dimension of any opening exceeds
310 mm,
- supports are provided for openings with any
dimension exceeding 150 mm where framing members are spaced
greater than 400 mm o.c.,
- individual openings are spaced not less
than 2 m apart,
- the ducts above the membrane are sheet
steel and are supported by steel strapping firmly attached to the framing
members, and
- the clearance between the top surface of
the membrane and the bottom surface of the ducts is not less than 100
mm.
2) Where an individual opening permitted in
Sentence (1) exceeds 130 cm
2 in area, it shall be protected by
- a fire stop flap conforming to Subsection D-5.3., or
- thermal protection above the duct
consisting of the same materials as used for the ceiling membrane,
mechanically fastened to the ductwork and extending 200 mm
beyond the opening on all sides (see Article D-2.3.10.A-A).
Figure D-2.3.10.A-A
Thermal protection above a duct

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-2.3.10. Ceiling Membrane Openings – Combustible Construction
1) Except as permitted in Article D-2.3.12.,
where a floor or roof assembly of combustible construction is assigned a
fire-resistance rating on the basis of Subsection D-2.3. and
incorporates a ceiling membrane described in Table D-2.3.4.A. or D-2.3.4.B., the ceiling membrane may be
penetrated by openings leading to ducts within concealed spaces above the membrane
provided:
- the assembly is not required to have a
fire-resistance rating in excess of 1 h,
- the area of any openings does not exceed
930 cm2 (see Sentence (2)),
- the aggregate area of openings does not
exceed 1 per cent
1% of the ceiling area of the fire compartment,
- the depth of the concealed space above the
ceiling is not less than 230 mm,
- no dimension of any opening exceeds
310 mm,
- supports are provided for openings with any
dimension exceeding 150 mm where framing members are spaced
greater than 400 mm o.c.,
- individual openings are spaced not less
than 2 m apart,
- the ducts above the membrane are sheet
steel and are supported by steel strapping firmly attached to the framing
members, and
- the clearance between the top surface of
the membrane and the bottom surface of the ducts is not less than 100
mm.
2) Where an individual opening permitted in Sentence (1) exceeds 130
cm
2 in area, it shall be protected by
- a fire stop flap conforming to Subsection D-5.3., or
- thermal protection above the duct
consisting of the same materials as used for the ceiling membrane,
mechanically fastened to the ductwork and extending 200 mm
beyond the opening on all sides (see Article D-2.3.10.A-A).
Figure D-2.3.10.A-A
Thermal protection above a duct
D-2.3.11. Ceiling Membrane Openings – Noncombustible Construction
1) Except as permitted in
Article D-2.3.12., where a floor or roof assembly of noncombustible construction is assigned a
fire-resistance rating on the basis of
Subsection D-2.3. and incorporates a ceiling membrane described in
Table D-2.3.4.A. or D-2.3.4.B., the ceiling membrane may be penetrated by openings leading to ducts located within concealed spaces provided:
- the area of any opening does not exceed
930 cm2 (see Sentence (2)),
- the aggregate area of openings does not
exceed 2
per cent
of the ceiling area of the fire compartment,
- no dimension of any opening exceeds
400 mm,
- individual openings are spaced not less
than 2 m apart,
- openings are located not less than
200 mm from major structural members such as beams,
columns or joists,
- the ducts above the membrane are sheet
steel and are supported by steel strapping firmly attached to the framing
members, and
- the clearance between the top surface of
the membrane and the bottom surface of the duct is not less than 100
mm.
2) Where an individual opening permitted in
Sentence (1) exceeds 130 cm
2 in area, it shall be protected by
- a fire stop flap conforming to Subsection D-5.3., or
- thermal protection above the duct
consisting of the same materials as used for the ceiling membrane,
mechanically fastened to the ductwork and extending 200 mm
beyond the opening on all sides (see Article D-2.3.10.A-A).

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-2.3.11. Ceiling Membrane Openings – Noncombustible Construction
1) Except as permitted in Article D-2.3.12.,
where a floor or roof assembly of noncombustible construction is assigned a
fire-resistance rating on the basis of Subsection D-2.3. and
incorporates a ceiling membrane described in Table D-2.3.4.A. or D-2.3.4.B., the ceiling membrane may be
penetrated by openings leading to ducts located within concealed spaces provided:
- the area of any opening does not exceed
930 cm2 (see Sentence (2)),
- the aggregate area of openings does not
exceed 2 per cent
2% of the ceiling area of the fire compartment,
- no dimension of any opening exceeds
400 mm,
- individual openings are spaced not less
than 2 m apart,
- openings are located not less than
200 mm from major structural members such as beams,
columns or joists,
- the ducts above the membrane are sheet
steel and are supported by steel strapping firmly attached to the framing
members, and
- the clearance between the top surface of
the membrane and the bottom surface of the duct is not less than 100
mm.
2) Where an individual opening permitted in Sentence (1) exceeds 130
cm
2 in area, it shall be protected by
- a fire stop flap conforming to Subsection D-5.3., or
- thermal protection above the duct
consisting of the same materials as used for the ceiling membrane,
mechanically fastened to the ductwork and extending 200 mm
beyond the opening on all sides (see Article D-2.3.10.A-A).
D-2.3.12. Ceiling Membrane Rating
Where the fire-resistance rating of a ceiling assembly is to be determined on the
basis of the membrane only and not of the complete assembly, the ratings may be
determined from
Table D-2.3.12., provided no openings are located within the ceiling membrane.
Table D-2.3.12. Fire-Resistance Rating for Ceiling Membranes Forming part of Article D-2.3.12. |
Description of Membrane |
Fire-Resistance Rating, min |
15.9 mm Type X gypsum wallboard with ≥ 75 mm mineral wool batt
insulation above wallboard |
30 |
19 mm gypsum-sand
plaster on metal lath
|
30 |
Double 14.0 mm Douglas Fir plywood phenolic bonded |
30 |
Double 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard
|
45 |
25 mm gypsum-sand
plaster on metal lath
|
45 |
Double 15.9 mm Type X gypsum wallboard
|
60 |
32 mm gypsum-sand
plaster on metal lath
|
60 |
D-2.3.13. Beams
1) Where a beam is included
with an open-web steel joist or similar construction and is protected
by the same continuous ceiling, the beam is assumed to have a fire-resistance
rating equal to that assigned to the rest of the assembly.
2) The ratings in this
Appendix assume that the construction to which the beam is related
is a normal one and does not carry unusual loads from the floor or
slab above.
D-2.3.14. Wired Glass Assembly Support
1) Openings in a vertical fire separation having a
fire-resistance rating of not more than 1 h are allowed to be protected
by wired glass assemblies, provided the wired glass is
- not less than 6 mm
thick;
- reinforced by a steel wire mesh in the form
of diamonds, squares or hexagons having dimensions of
- approximately 25 mm
across the flats, using wire of not less than 0.45 mm
diam, or
- approximately 13 mm
across the flats, using wire of not less than 0.40 mm
diam, the wire to be centrally embedded during manufacture and
welded or intertwined at each intersection;
- set in fixed steel frames with metal not
less than 1.35 mm thick and providing a glazing stop of not
less than 20 mm on each side of the glass; and
- limited in area so that
- individual panes are not more than
0.84 m2, with neither height nor
width more than 1.4 m, and
- the area not structurally
supported by mullions is not more than 7.5
m2.
2) It is intended that the structural mullions referred to in Subclause (1)(d)(ii)
will not distort or be displaced to the extent that there would be a failure of the
wired glass closure during the period for which a closure in the fire separation
would be expected to function. Hollow structural steel tubing not less than
100 mm square filled with a Portland cement-based grout will
satisfy the intent of the Subclause.
D-2.4. Solid Wood Walls, Floors and Roofs
D-2.4.1. Minimum Thickness
The minimum thickness of solid wood walls, floors and roofs
for fire-resistance ratings from 30 min to 1.5
h is shown in
Table D-2.4.1.
Table D-2.4.1. Minimum Thickness of Solid Wood Walls, Roofs and Floors,
mm(1)(2) Forming part of Article D-2.4.1. |
Type
of Construction |
Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
Solid wood floor with building
paper and finish flooring on top(3) |
89 |
114 |
165 |
235 |
Solid wood, splined
or tongued and grooved floor with building paper and finish flooring
on top(4) | 64 |
76 |
— |
— |
Solid wood walls of loadbearing
vertical plank(3) |
89 |
114 |
140 |
184 |
Solid wood walls of non-loadbearing
horizontal plank(3) |
89 |
89 |
89 |
140 |
D-2.4.2. Increased Fire-Resistance Rating
1) The fire-resistance rating of the assemblies described in
Table D-2.4.1. may be increased by 15 min if one of the following finishes is applied on the fire-exposed side:
- 12.7 mm thick gypsum
wallboard,
- 20 mm thick gypsum-sand
plaster on metal lath, or
- 13 mm thick gypsum-sand
plaster on 9.5 mm gypsum lath.
D-2.4.3. Supplementary Ratings
Supplementary ratings based on tests are included in
Table D-2.4.3. The ratings given shall apply to constructions that conform in all details with the descriptions given.
Table D-2.4.3. Fire-Resistance Rating of Non-Loadbearing Built-up Solid
Wood Partitions(1) Forming part of Article D-2.4.3. |
Construction Details |
Actual Overall Thickness, mm |
Fire-Resistance Rating |
Solid panels of wood
boards 64 mm to 140 mm wide grooved and
joined with wood splines, nailed together, boards placed vertically
with staggered joints, 3 boards thick |
58 |
30 min |
Solid panels with 4 mm plywood facings(2) glued to 46 mm solid wood core of glued, tongued and grooved construction for both sides and ends of core pieces with tongued and grooved rails
in the core about 760 mm apart |
54 |
1 h |
D-2.5. Solid Plaster Partitions
D-2.5.1. Minimum Thickness
The minimum thickness of solid plaster partitions for fire-resistance ratings from
30 min to 4 h is shown in
Table D-2.5.1.
Table D-2.5.1. Minimum Thickness of Non-Loadbearing Solid Plaster Partitions,
mm Forming part of Article D-2.5.1. |
Type of Plaster on Metal Lath(1) | Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Portland cement-sand(2) or Portland cement-lime-sand |
50(3) |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
Gypsum-sand |
50(3) |
50(3) |
64 |
— |
— |
— |
— |
Gypsum-vermiculite,
gypsum-perlite, Portland cement-vermiculite or Portland cement-perlite |
50(3) |
50(3) |
50(3) |
58 |
64 |
83 |
102 |
D-2.6. Protected Steel Columns
D-2.6.1. Minimum Thickness of Protective Covering
The minimum thickness of protective covering to steel columns is shown in
Tables D-2.6.1.A. to D-2.6.1.F. for fire-resistance ratings from 30 min to 4 h.
Table D-2.6.1.A. Minimum Thickness of Concrete or Masonry Protection to Steel Columns,
mm Forming part of Article D-2.6.1. |
Description
of Cover |
Fire-Resistance Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Monolithic concrete |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Type S
concrete(1) (column spaces filled)(2) | 25 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
39 |
64 |
89 |
Type N or L
concrete(1) (column spaces filled)(2) | 25 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
32 |
50 |
77 |
Concrete masonry
units(3) or precast reinforced concrete units
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Type S
concrete (column spaces not filled) |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
64 |
89 |
115 |
Type N or L
concrete (column spaces not filled) |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
77 |
102 |
Clay or shale
brick(4) (column spaces filled)(2) |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
64 |
77 |
Clay or shale
brick(4) (column spaces not filled)
|
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
77 |
102 |
Hollow clay tile(5) (column spaces filled)(2) |
50(6) |
50(6) |
50(6) |
50(6) |
(7) |
(7) |
(7) |
Hollow clay tile(5) (column spaces not filled)
|
50(6) |
50(6) |
50(6) |
— |
— |
— |
— |
Table D-2.6.1.B. Minimum Thickness of Plaster Protection to Steel Columns, mm Forming part of Article D-2.6.1. |
Description |
Fire-Resistance Rating(1)(2) |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Gypsum-sand
plaster on 9.5 mm gypsum lath(3) | 13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
— |
— |
— |
Gypsum-perlite or
vermiculite plaster on 9.5 mm gypsum lath(3) | 13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
— |
— |
Gypsum perlite or
vermiculite plaster on 12.7 mm gypsum lath(3) | 13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
32 |
50 |
Gypsum perlite or
vermiculite plaster on double 12.7 mm gypsum lath(3) | 13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
25 |
32 |
Portland
cement-sand plaster on metal lath(4)(5) | 25 |
25 |
25 |
— |
— |
— |
— |

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
Table D-2.6.1.B. Minimum Thickness of Plaster Protection to Steel Columns, mm Forming part of Article D-2.6.1.
|
Description |
Fire-Resistance Rating(1)(2) |
|
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Gypsum-sand
plaster on 9.5 mm gypsum lath(3) |
13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
— |
— |
— |
Gypsum-perlite or
vermiculite plaster on 9.5 mm gypsum lath(3) |
13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
— |
— |
Gypsum perlite or
vermiculite plaster on 12.7 mm gypsum lath(3) |
13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
32 |
50 |
Gypsum perlite or
vermiculite plaster on double 12.7 mm gypsum lath(3) |
13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
25 |
32 |
Portland
cement-sand plaster on metal lath(4)(5) |
25 |
25 |
25 |
— |
— |
— |
— |
Table D-2.6.1.C. Minimum Thickness of Gypsum-Sand Plaster on Metal Lath Protection to Steel
Columns, mm Forming part of Article D-2.6.1. |
M/D(1) | Fire-Resistance Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
30 to 60 |
16 |
16 |
32 |
— |
— |
— |
over 60 to
90
|
16 |
16 |
16 |
32 |
— |
— |
over 90 to
120
|
16 |
16 |
16 |
25 |
39 |
— |
over 120 to
180
|
16 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
25 |
— |
over 180 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
25 |
39 |
Table D-2.6.1.D. Minimum Thickness of Gypsum-Perlite or Gypsum-Vermiculite Plaster on Metal
Lath Protection to Steel Columns, mm Forming part of Article D-2.6.1. |
M/D(1) | Fire-Resistance Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
30 to 60 |
16 |
16 |
20 |
32 |
35 |
— |
— |
over 60 to 90 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
20 |
26 |
35 |
45 |
over 90 to 120 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
26 |
35 |
45 |
over 120 to 180 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
20 |
32 |
35 |
over 180 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
26 |
35 |
Table D-2.6.1.E. Steel Columns with Sheet-Steel Membrane and Insulation
as Shown in Figures D-2.6.1-A. and D-2.6.1-B. Forming part of Article D-2.6.1. |
Type of Protection |
Steel Thickness,(1) mm |
Fastening(2) | Insulation |
Fire-Resistance Rating |
See Figure D-2.6.1.-A | 0.51 |
No. 8 sheet-metal screws 9.5 mm long, 200 mm o.c.
|
50 mm mineral
wool batts(3) |
45 min |
See Figure D-2.6.1.-B | 0.64 |
Self-threading screws or
No. 8 sheet-metal screws, 600 mm o.c.
|
2 layers 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard |
1.5 h |
See Figure D-2.6.1.-A | 0.64 |
No. 8 sheet-metal screws, 9.5 mm long 200 mm o.c.
|
75 mm mineral
wool batts,(3) 12.7 mm gypsum wallboard
|
2 h |
See Figure D-2.6.1.-B | 0.76 |
Crimped joint or No. 8 sheet-metal
screws, 300 mm o.c.
|
2 layers 15.9 mm gypsum wallboard
|
2 h |
Table D-2.6.1.F. Minimum M/D Ratio for Steel Columns Covered with Type X Gypsum Wallboard
Protection(1) Forming part of Article D-2.6.1. |
Minimum Thickness of Type X Gypsum Wallboard Protection,(2) mm |
Fire-Resistance Rating |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
12.7 |
75 |
— |
— |
— |
15.9 |
55 |
— |
— |
— |
25.4 |
35 |
60 |
— |
— |
28.6 |
35 |
50 |
— |
— |
31.8 |
35 |
40 |
75 |
— |
38.1 |
35 |
35 |
55 |
— |
41.3 |
35 |
35 |
45 |
— |
44.5 |
35 |
35 |
35 |
— |
47.6 |
35 |
35 |
35 |
— |
50.8 |
35 |
35 |
35 |
75 |
63.5 |
35 |
35 |
35 |
45 |
Figure D-2.6.1.-A
Column protected by sheet-steel membrane and mineral-wool insulation
Figure D-2.6.1.-B
Column protected by sheet-steel membrane and gypsum wallboard
D-2.6.2. Hollow Unit Masonry Columns
D-2.6.3. Effect of Plaster
The effect on fire-resistance ratings of the addition of plaster
to masonry and monolithic concrete column protection is described
in
Subsection D-1.7.D-2.6.4. Determination of M/D Ratio
2) The heated perimeter “D” of steel columns, shown as the
dashed line in
Figure D-2.6.4.-A, shall be equal to 2 (B+H) in Examples (1) and (2), and 3.14B in Example (3). In
Figure D-2.6.4.-B, the heated perimeter “D” shall be equal to 2 (B+H).
Figure D-2.6.4.-A
Example (1), standard or wide-flange beam; Example (2), hollow structural section
(rectangular or square); Example (3), hollow structural section (round)
Figure D-2.6.4.-B
Columns protected by Type X gypsum wallboard without sheet-steel membrane
D-2.6.5. Attachment of Gypsum Wallboard
1) Where Type X gypsum wallboard is used to protect a steel
column without an outside sheet-steel membrane, the method of wallboard attachment
to the column shall be as shown in
Figure D-2.6.4.-B and shall meet the construction details described in
Sentences (2) to (7).
2) The Type X gypsum wallboard shall be applied vertically
without horizontal joints.
3) The first layer of wallboard shall be attached to steel
studs with screws spaced not more than 600 mm o.c. and other layers of
wallboard shall be attached to steel studs and steel corner beads with screws spaced
at a maximum of 300 mm o.c. Where a single layer of wallboard is used,
attachment screws shall be spaced not more than 300 mm
o.c.
4) Steel tie wires spaced at a maximum of 600 mm
o.c. shall be used to secure the second last layer of wallboard in 3- and 4-layer
systems.
5) Studs shall be fabricated of galvanized steel not less than
0.53 mm thick and not less than 41.3 mm wide, with
legs not less than 33.3 mm long and shall be 12.7 mm less
than the assembly height.
6) Corner beads shall
- be fabricated of galvanized steel that is
not less than 0.41 mm thick,
- have legs not less than 31 mm
long,
- be attached to the wallboard or stud with
25.4 mm screws spaced not more than 300 mm
o.c., and
- have the attaching fasteners penetrate
either another corner bead in multiple layer assemblies or the steel stud
member.
7) In a 4-layer system, metal angles shall be fabricated of
galvanized steel and shall be not less than 0.46 mm thick with legs
not less than 51 mm long.
D-2.6.6. Concrete Filled Hollow Steel Columns
1) A fire-resistance rating, R, is permitted to be assigned to concentrically loaded
hollow steel columns that are filled with plain concrete, steel-fibre reinforced
concrete or bar-reinforced concrete, that are fabricated and erected within the
tolerances stipulated in
CSA S16, “Design of Steel Structures,” and that comply with
Sentences (2) and (3), provided:
where
C= axial compressive force due to dead and live loads without load
factors, kN,
Cmax= 
but shall not exceed
- 1.0 C'r for plain concrete filling (PC),
- 1.1 C'r for steel-fibre reinforced concrete filling (FC), and
- 1.7 C'r for bar-reinforced concrete filling (RC),
where
where
D= outside diameter of a round column or outside width of a square
column, mm,
R= specified fire-resistance rating, min, and
subject to the validity limits stated in
Table D-2.6.6.B. 2) A pair of steam vent holes shall be provided at each end of the hollow steel column
and at each intermediate floor level, and the holes shall be
- not less than 13 mm in diameter,
- located on opposite faces, 150 mm above or
below a base plate, cap plate or concrete slab,
- orientated so that adjacent pairs are perpendicular,
and
- not obstructed by other building elements.
Table D-2.6.6.A. Values of Constant “a” Forming part of Article D-2.6.6. |
Filling Type |
Concrete Type(1) | Steel Reinforcement |
Circular Columns |
Square Columns |
PC |
S |
n/a |
0.070 |
0.060 |
FC |
S |
≈ 2% |
0.075 |
0.065 |
RC |
S |
1.5%-3% |
0.080 |
0.070 |
RC |
S |
3%-5% |
0.085 |
0.075 |
PC |
N |
n/a |
0.080 |
0.070 |
FC |
N |
≈ 2% |
0.085 |
0.075 |
RC |
N |
1.5%-3% |
0.090 |
0.080 |
RC |
N |
3%-5% |
0.095 |
0.085 |
Table D-2.6.6.B. Validity Limits Forming part of Article D-2.6.6. |
Parameter |
Type of
Concrete Filling |
PC |
FC |
RC |
fc' (MPa)
|
20 to 40 |
20 to 55 |
20 to 55 |
D (round) (mm) |
140 to 410 |
140 to 410 |
165 to 410 |
D (square) (mm) |
140 to 305 |
102 to 305 |
175 to 305 |
Reinforcement (%) |
n/a |
≈ 2% of the concrete mix by mass |
1.5% to 5% of cross-sectional area(1) |
Concrete Cover (mm) |
n/a |
n/a |
≥ 25 |
R (min) |
≤ 120 |
≤ 180 |
≤ 180 |
KL (mm) |
2 000 to 4 000 |
2 000 to 4 500 |
2 000 to 4 500 |
Class(2) |
1, 2 or 3 |
1, 2 or 3 |
1, 2 or 3 |
D-2.7. Individually Protected Steel Beams
D-2.7.1. Minimum Thickness of Protective Covering
The minimum thickness of protective covering on steel beams
exposed to fire on 3 sides for fire-resistance ratings from 30 min to 4 h is shown in
Table D-2.7.1.
Table D-2.7.1. Minimum Thickness of Cover to Individual Protected Steel Beams, mm(1) Forming part of Article D-2.7.1. |
Description
of Cover |
Fire-Resistance Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Type S concrete(2) (beam spaces filled solid)
|
25 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
32 |
50 |
64 |
Type N or L
concrete(2) (beam spaces filled solid)
|
25 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
39 |
50 |
Gypsum-sand plaster on
9.5 mm gypsum lath(3) |
13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
— |
— |
— |
Gypsum-perlite or
vermiculite plaster on 9.5 mm gypsum lath(3) | 13 |
13 |
13 |
13 |
25 |
— |
— |
Gypsum-perlite or
gypsum-vermiculite on 12.7 mm gypsum lath(3) | 13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
39 |
50 |
Gypsum-perlite or
vermiculite plaster on double 12.7 mm gypsum lath(3) | 13 |
13 |
13 |
20 |
25 |
25 |
39 |
Portland cement-sand on
metal lath(4) |
23 |
23 |
23 |
— |
— |
— |
— |
Gypsum-sand on
metal lath(4) (plaster in contact with lower flange) |
16 |
20 |
25 |
39 |
— |
— |
— |
Gypsum-sand on
metal lath with air gap between plaster and lower flange(4) | 16 |
16 |
16 |
25 |
25 |
— |
— |
Gypsum-perlite or
gypsum-vermiculite on metal lath(4) |
16 |
16 |
16 |
23 |
23 |
35 |
48(5) |
D-2.7.2. Types of Concrete
Concrete is referred to as Type S, N or L, depending on the
nature of the aggregate used. This is described in
Article D-1.4.1.D-2.7.3. Effect of Plaster
The effect on fire-resistance ratings of the addition of plaster
finish to concrete or masonry beam protection is described in
Article D-1.7.1.D-2.7.4. Exceptions
The fire resistance of protected steel beams depends on the means used to hold the
protection in place. Because of the importance of this factor, no rating has been
assigned in
Table D-2.7.1. to masonry units used as protective cover to steel beams. These ratings, however, may be determined on the
basis of comparison with column protection at the discretion of the

Chief Building Official

, if satisfactory means of fastening are provided.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-2.7.4. Exceptions
The fire resistance of protected steel beams depends on the means used to hold the
protection in place. Because of the importance of this factor, no rating has been
assigned in Table D-2.7.1. to masonry units used as
protective cover to steel beams. These ratings, however, may be determined on the
basis of comparison with column protection at the discretion of the
Chief Building Officialauthority having
jurisdiction, if satisfactory means
of fastening are provided.
D-2.7.5. Beam Protected by a Membrane
A steel beam or steel joist assembly that is entirely above
a horizontal ceiling membrane will be protected from fire below the
membrane and will resist structural collapse for a period equal to
the fire-resistance rating determined in conformance with
Subsection D-2.3. The support for this membrane shall be equivalent to that described in
Subsection D-2.3. The rating on this basis shall not exceed 1.5 h.
D-2.8. Reinforced Concrete Columns
D-2.8.1. Minimum Dimensions
Minimum dimensions for reinforced concrete columns and minimum
concrete cover for vertical steel reinforcement are obtained from
Article D-2.8.2. to D-2.8.5., taking into account the type of concrete, the effective length of the column and the area of the vertical reinforcement.
D-2.8.2. Method
1) The minimum dimension, t, in millimetres, of a rectangular reinforced concrete column
shall be equal to
- 75 f (R + 1) for all Types L and L40S concrete,
- 80 f (R + 1) for Type S concrete when the design condition of the concrete column
is defined in the second and fourth columns of Table D-2.8.2.,
- 80 f (R + 0.75) for Type N concrete when the design condition of the concrete column
is defined in the second and fourth columns of Table D-2.8.2., and
- 100 f (R + 1) for Types S and N concrete when the design condition of the concrete
column is defined in the third column of Table D-2.8.2.
where
R= the required fire-resistance rating in hours,
h= the unsupported length of the column in metres, and
p= the area of vertical reinforcement in the column as a percentage of the column area.
2) The diameter of a round column shall be not less than 1.2 times the value t determined in
Sentence (1) for a rectangular column.
Table D-2.8.2. Values of Factor f(1) Forming part of Article D-2.8.2. |
Overdesign Factor(2) |
Values of Factor f to be Used in Applying Article D-2.8.2. |
Where kh is not more than 3.7 m |
Where kh is more than 3.7 m but not more than 7.3 m |
t is not more than 300 mm, p is not more than 3 per cent (3)  |
All other cases(4) |
1.00 |
1.0 |
1.2 |
1.0 |
1.25 |
0.9 |
1.1 |
0.9 |
1.50 |
0.83 |
1.0 |
0.83 |

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
Table D-2.8.2. Values of Factor f(1) Forming part of Article D-2.8.2.
|
Overdesign Factor(2) |
Values of Factor f to be Used in Applying Article D-2.8.2. |
|
Where kh is not more than 3.7 m |
Where kh is more than 3.7 m but not more than 7.3 m |
|
|
t is not more than 300 mm, p is not more than 3 per cent3%(3) |
All other cases(4) |
1.00 |
1.0 |
1.2 |
1.0 |
1.25 |
0.9 |
1.1 |
0.9 |
1.50 |
0.83 |
1.0 |
0.83 |
D-2.8.3. Minimum Thickness of Concrete Cover
1) Where the required fire-resistance rating of a concrete
column is 3 h or less, the minimum thickness in millimetres of concrete
cover over vertical steel reinforcement shall be equal to 25 times the number of
hours of fire resistance required or 50 mm, whichever is less.
2) Where the required fire-resistance rating of a concrete
column is greater than 3 h, the minimum thickness in millimetres of
concrete cover over vertical steel reinforcement shall be equal to 50 plus 12.5
times the required number of hours of fire resistance in excess of 3
h.
3) Where the concrete cover over vertical steel required in
Sentence (2) exceeds 62.5 mm, wire mesh reinforcement with 1.57 mm
diameter wire and 100 mm openings shall be incorporated midway in the
concrete cover to retain the concrete in position.
D-2.8.4. Minimum Requirements
The structural design standards may require minimum column dimensions or concrete
cover over vertical steel reinforcement differing from those obtained in
D-2.8.2.(1) and
D-2.8.2.(2). Where a difference occurs, the greater dimension shall govern.
D-2.8.5. Addition of Plaster
The addition of plaster finish to the concrete column may be
taken into account in determining the cover over vertical steel reinforcement
by applying the multiplying factors described in
Subsection D-1.7. The addition of plaster shall not, however, justify any decrease in the minimum column sizes shown.
D-2.8.6. Built-in Columns
The fire-resistance rating of a reinforced concrete column that is built into a
masonry or concrete wall so that not more than one face may be exposed to the
possibility of fire at one time may be determined on the basis of cover to vertical
reinforcing steel alone. In order to meet this condition, the wall shall conform to
Subsection D-2.1. for the fire-resistance rating required.
D-2.9. Reinforced Concrete Beams
D-2.9.1. Minimum Cover Thickness
The minimum thickness of cover over principal steel reinforcement
in reinforced concrete beams is shown in
Table D-2.9.1. for fire-resistance ratings from 30 min to 4 h where the width of the beam or joist is at least 100
mm.
Table D-2.9.1. Minimum Cover to Principal Steel Reinforcement in Reinforced
Concrete Beams, mm Forming part of Article D-2.9.1. |
Type
of Concrete |
Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Type S, N or L |
20 |
20 |
20 |
25 |
25 |
39 |
50 |
D-2.9.2. Maximum Rating
No rating over 2 h may be assigned on the basis
of
Table D-2.9.1. to a beam or joist where the average width of the part that projects below the slab is less than 140 mm, and no rating over 3 h may be assigned
where the average width of the part that projects below the slab is
less than 165 mm.
D-2.9.3. Beam Integrated in Floor or Roof Slab
For the purposes of these ratings, a beam may be either independent
of or integral with a floor or roof slab assembly.
D-2.9.4. Minimum Thickness
Where the upper extension or top flange of a joist or T-beam
in a floor assembly contributes wholly or partly to the thickness
of the slab above, the total thickness at any point shall be not less
than the minimum thickness described in
Table D-2.2.1.A. for the fire-resistance rating required.
D-2.9.5. Effect of Plaster
The addition of plaster finish to a reinforced concrete beam
may be taken into account in determining the cover over principal
reinforcing steel by applying the multiplying factors described in
Subsection D-1.7.D-2.10. Prestressed Concrete Beams
D-2.10.1. Minimum Cross-Sectional Area and Thickness of Cover
The minimum cross-sectional area and thickness of concrete cover
over steel tendons in prestressed concrete beams for fire-resistance
ratings from 30 min to 4 h are shown in
Table D-2.10.1.
Table D-2.10.1. Minimum Thickness of Concrete Cover over Steel Tendons
in Prestressed Concrete Beams, mm(1) Forming part of Article D-2.10.1. |
Type
of Concrete |
Area of Beam, cm2 |
Fire-Resistance
Rating |
30 min |
45 min |
1 h |
1.5 h |
2 h |
3 h |
4 h |
Type S or N |
260 to 970 |
25 |
39 |
50 |
64 |
— |
— |
— |
Over 970 to 1 940 |
25 |
26 |
39 |
45 |
64 |
— |
— |
Over 1 940 |
25 |
26 |
39 |
39 |
50 |
77 |
102 |
Type L |
Over 970 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
39 |
50 |
77 |
102 |
D-2.10.2. Minimum Cover Thickness
The cover for an individual tendon shall be the minimum thickness
of concrete between the surface of the tendon and the fire-exposed
surface of the beam, except that for ungrouted ducts the assumed cover
thickness shall be the minimum thickness of concrete between the surface
of the duct and the surface of the beam. For beams in which several
tendons are used, the cover is assumed to be the average of the minimum
cover of the individual tendons. The cover for any individual tendon
shall be not less than half the value given in
Table D-2.10.1. nor less than 25 mm.
D-2.10.3. Applicability of Ratings
The ratings in
Table D-2.10.1. apply to a beam that is either independent of or integral with a floor or roof slab assembly.
Minimum thickness of slab and minimum cover to steel tendons in prestressed
concrete slabs are contained in
Subsection D-2.2.D-2.10.4. Effect of Plaster
The addition of plaster finish to a prestressed concrete beam
may be taken into account in determining the cover over steel tendons
by applying the multiplying factors described in
Subsection D-1.7.D-2.10.5. Minimum Cover
1) Except as provided
in
Sentence (2), in unbonded post-tensioned prestressed concrete beams, the concrete
cover to the tendon at the anchor shall be not less than 15
mm greater than the minimum required away from the anchor.
The concrete cover to the anchorage bearing plate and to the end of
the tendon, if it projects beyond the bearing plate, shall be not
less than 25 mm.
2) The requirements in
Sentence (1) do not apply to those portions of beams not likely to be exposed to fire (such
as the ends and the tops of flanges of beams immediately below slabs).
D-2.11. Glued-Laminated Timber Beams and Columns
D-2.11.1. Applicability of Information
The information in
Subsection D-2.11. applies to glued-laminated timber beams and columns required to have fire-resistance ratings greater than those
afforded under the provisions of
Article 3.1.4.6. of this

By-law

.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-2.11.1. Applicability of Information
The information in Subsection D-2.11. applies to glued-laminated
timber beams and columns required to have fire-resistance ratings greater than those
afforded under the provisions of Article 3.1.4.6. of
this
By-lawCode.
D-2.11.2. Method of Calculation
1) The fire-resistance rating of glued-laminated timber beams and columns in minutes
shall be equal to
- 0.1 fB [4 − 2(B/D)] for beams that may be exposed to fire on 4 sides,
- 0.1 fB [4 − (B/D)] for beams that may be exposed to fire on 3 sides,
- 0.1 fB [3 − (B/D)] for columns that may be exposed to fire on 4 sides, and
- 0.1 fB [3 − (B/2D)] for columns that may be exposed to fire on 3 sides,
where
B= the full dimension of the smaller side of a beam or column in millimetres before
exposure to fire [see Figure D-2.11.2.-B], D= the full dimension of the larger side of a beam or column in millimetres before
exposure to fire [see Figure D-2.11.2.-B], L= the unsupported length of a column in millimetres.
Figure D-2.11.2.-A
Factors to compensate for partially loaded columns and beams
Notes to Figure D-2.11.2.-A:
Figure D-2.11.2.-B
Full dimensions of glued-laminated beams and columns

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-2.11.2. Method of Calculation
1) The fire-resistance rating of glued-laminated timber beams and columns in minutes
shall be equal to
- 0.1 fB [4 − 2(B/D)] for beams that may be exposed to fire on 4 sides,
- 0.1 fB [4 − (B/D)] for beams that may be exposed to fire on 3 sides,
- 0.1 fB [3 − (B/D)] for columns that may be exposed to fire on 4 sides, and
- 0.1 fB [3 − (B/2D)] for columns that may be exposed to fire on 3 sides,
where
f= the load factor shown in Figure D-2.11.2.-A,
B= the full dimension of the smaller side of a beam or column in millimetres before
exposure to fire [see Figure D-2.11.2.-B],
D= the full dimension of the larger side of a beam or column in millimetres before
exposure to fire [see Figure D-2.11.2.-B],
k= the effective length factor obtained from CSA O86, “Engineering Design in Wood,”
L= the unsupported length of a column in millimetres.
2) The factored resistance of a beam or column shall be determined by using the specified
strengths in CSA O86, “Engineering Design in Wood.”
Figure D-2.11.2.-A
Factors to compensate for partially loaded columns and beams
Notes to Figure D-2.11.2.-A:
Figure D-2.11.2.-B
Full dimensions of glued-laminated beams and columns
Section D-3. Flame-Spread Ratings and Smoke Developed Classifications
D-3.1. Interior Finish Materials
D-3.1.1. Scope of Information
Tables D-3.1.1.A. and D-3.1.1.B. show flame-spread ratings and smoke developed classifications for combinations of some common interior finish materials. The values
are based on all the evidence available at present. Many materials
have not been included because of lack of test evidence or because
of inability to classify or describe the material in generic terms
for the purpose of assigning ratings.
Table D-3.1.1.A. Assigned Flame-Spread Ratings and Smoke Developed Classifications for Combinations
of Wall and Ceiling Finish Materials and Surface Coatings(1) Forming part of Article D-3.1.1. |
Materials |
Applicable Material Standard |
Minimum Thickness, mm |
Surface Coating |
Unfinished |
Paint or Varnish not more than 1.3 mm Thick, Cellulosic Wallpaper not more than One
Layer(2)(3) |
Brick, concrete, tile |
None |
None |
0/0 |
25/50 |
Steel, copper, aluminum |
None |
0.33 |
Gypsum plaster |
CSA A82.22-M | None |
Gypsum wallboard |
CAN/CSA-A82.27-M | 9.5 |
25/50 |
25/50 |
ASTM C 1396/C 1396M |
Lumber |
None |
16 |
150/300 |
150/300 |
Douglas Fir plywood(4) |
CSA O121 | 11 |
150/100 |
150/300 |
Poplar plywood(4) |
CSA O153-M |
Plywood with Spruce face veneer(4) |
CSA O151 |
Douglas Fir plywood(4) |
CSA O121 | 6 |
150/100 |
150/100 |
Fiberboard low density |
CAN/ULC-S706 | 11 |
X/100 |
150/100 |
Hardboard |
|
|
|
|
Type 1 |
CAN/CGSB-11.3-M | 9 |
150/X |
(5) |
Standard |
6 |
150/300 |
150/300 |
Particleboard |
ANSI A208.1 |
12.7 |
150/300 |
(5) |
Waferboard, OSB |
CSA O437.0 |
— |
(5) | (5) |
CAN/CSA-O325 | — |
(5) | (5) |
Table D-3.1.1.B. Flame-Spread Ratings and Smoke-Developed Classifications for Combinations of Common
Floor Finish Materials and Surface Coatings(1) Forming part of Article D-3.1.1. |
Materials |
Applicable Standard |
FSR/SDC(2) |
Hardwood or softwood flooring either unfinished or finished with a spar or urethane
varnish coating |
None |
300/300 |
Wool carpet (woven), pile weight not less than 1120 g/m2, applied with or without felt underlay(3) | CAN/CGSB-4.129 | 300/300 |
Nylon carpet, pile weight not less than 610 g/m2 and not more than 800 g/m2, applied with or without felt underlay(3) | CAN/CGSB-4.129 | 300/500 |
Nylon carpet, pile weight not less than 610 g/m2 and not more than 1355 g/m2, glued down to concrete |
CAN/CGSB-4.129 | 300/500 |
Wool/nylon blend carpet (woven) with not more than 20% nylon and pile weight not less
than 1120 g/m2 |
CAN/CGSB-4.129 | 300/500 |
Nylon/wool blend carpet (woven) with not more than 50% wool, pile weight not less
than 610 g/m2 and not more than 800 g/m2 |
CAN/CGSB-4.129 | 300/500 |
Polypropylene carpet, pile weight not less than 500 g/m2 and not more than 1200 g/m2, glued down to concrete |
CAN/CGSB-4.129 | 300/500 |
D-3.1.2. Ratings
The ratings shown in
Tables D-3.1.1.A. and D-3.1.1.B. are arranged in groups corresponding to the provisions of this

By-law

. The ratings apply to materials falling within the general categories indicated.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-3.1.2. Ratings
The ratings shown in Tables D-3.1.1.A. and D-3.1.1.B. are arranged in groups
corresponding to the provisions of this
By-lawCode. The ratings apply to materials falling within the general
categories indicated.
D-3.1.3. Table Entries
25/50 represents a flame-spread rating of 0 to 25 and a smoke
developed classification of 0 to 50,
150/300 represents a flame-spread rating of 75 to 150 and a
smoke developed classification of 100 to 300, and
X/X applied to walls and ceilings means a flame-spread rating
over 150 and a smoke developed classification over 300.
D-3.1.4. Effect of Surface Coatings
Thin surface coatings can modify flame-spread characteristics
either upward or downward.
Table D-3.1.1.A. includes a number of thin coatings that increase the flame-spread rating of the
base material, so that these may be considered where more precise
control over flame spread hazard is desired.
D-3.1.5. Proprietary Materials
1) Information on flame-spread
rating of proprietary materials and fire-retardant treatments that
cannot be described in sufficient detail to ensure reproducibility
is available through the listing and labelling services of Underwriters'
Laboratories of Canada, Intertek Testing Services NA Ltd., or other
recognized testing laboratory.
2) A summary of flame
spread test results published prior to 1965 has been prepared by the
Institute for Research in Construction of the National Research Council
of Canada (see Item (1) in
Subsection D-6.1., Fire Test Reports).
D-3.1.6. Limitations and Conditions
1) The propagation of
flame along a surface in the standard test involves some finite depth
of the material or materials behind the surface, and this involvement
extends to the depth to which temperature variations are to be found
during the course of the test; for many commonly used lining materials,
such as wood, the depth involved is about 25 mm.
2) For all the combustible
materials described in
Table D-3.1.1.A., a minimum dimension is shown, and this represents the thickness of the test samples on
which the rating has been based; when used in greater thicknesses
than that shown, these materials may have a slightly lower flame-spread
rating, and thinner specimens may have higher flame-spread ratings.
3) No rating has been
included for foamed plastic materials because it is not possible at
this time to identify these products with sufficient accuracy on a
generic basis. Materials of this type that melt when exposed to the
test flame generally show an increase in flame-spread rating as the
thickness of the test specimen increases.
D-3.1.7. Referenced Standards
In
Tables D-3.1.1.A. and D-3.1.1.B., the standards applicable to the materials described are noted because the ratings depend on conformance
with these specifications.
Section D-4. Noncombustibility
D-4.1. Test Method
D-4.1.1. Determination of Noncombustibility
2) The test to which reference is made in
Sentence (1) is severe, and it may be assumed that any building material containing even a small proportion of
combustibles will itself be classified as combustible. The specimen, 38
mm by 51 mm, is exposed to a temperature of
750°C in a small furnace. The essential criteria for
noncombustibility are that the specimen does not flame or contribute to temperature
rise.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-4.1.1. Determination of Noncombustibility
1) Noncombustibility is required of certain components of
buildings by the provisions of this
By-lawCode, which specifies noncombustibility by reference to CAN/ULC-S114, “Test for Determination of Non-Combustibility in Building Materials.”
2) The test to which reference is made in Sentence (1) is severe, and it may be
assumed that any building material containing even a small proportion of
combustibles will itself be classified as combustible. The specimen, 38
mm by 51 mm, is exposed to a temperature of
750°C in a small furnace. The essential criteria for
noncombustibility are that the specimen does not flame or contribute to temperature
rise.
D-4.2. Materials Classified as Combustible
D-4.2.1. Combustible Materials
D-4.2.2. Composite Materials
Materials that consist of combustible and noncombustible elements
in combination will in many cases also be classed as combustible,
unless the proportion of combustibles is very small. Some mineral
wool insulations with combustible binder, cinder concrete, cement
and wood chips and wood-fibred gypsum plaster would also be classed
as combustible.
D-4.2.3. Effect of Chemical Additives
The addition of a fire-retardant chemical is not sufficient
to change a combustible product to a noncombustible product.
D-4.3. Materials Classified as Noncombustible
D-4.3.1. Typical Examples
Noncombustible materials include brick, ceramic tile, concrete made from Portland
cement with noncombustible aggregate, plaster made from gypsum with noncombustible
aggregate, metals commonly used in buildings, glass, granite, sandstone, slate, limestone
and marble.

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-4.3.1. Typical Examples
Noncombustible materials include brick, ceramic tile, concrete made from Portland
cement with noncombustible aggregate,
asbestos cement, plaster made from gypsum with noncombustible aggregate, metals commonly used in buildings,
glass, granite, sandstone, slate, limestone and marble.
Section D-5. Protection of Openings in Fire-Rated Assemblies
D-5.1. Scope
D-5.1.1. Installation Information
1) The information in
D-5. specifies requirements for
- the installation of fire doors and fire
dampers in gypsum-wallboard-protected stud wall assemblies, and
- fire stop flaps for installation in fire-rated
membrane ceilings.
D-5.2. Installation of Fire Doors and Fire Dampers
D-5.2.1. References

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
D-5.2.1. References
1) Fire doors and fire dampers in gypsum-wallboard-protected steel stud non-loadbearing
walls required to have a fire-resistance rating shall be installed in conformance
with Section 9.24. of this
By-lawCode and the applicable requirements of NFPA 80, “Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives.”
2) Fire doors and fire dampers in gypsum-wallboard-protected wood stud walls required
to have a fire-resistance rating shall be installed in conformance with Section 9.23. of this
By-lawCode and the applicable requirements of NFPA 80, “Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives.”
D-5.3. Fire Stop Flaps
D-5.3.1. Construction Requirements
Fire stop flaps shall be constructed of steel not less than 1.5 mm
thick, covered on both sides with painted asbestos paper not less than 1.6
mm thick and equipped with pins and hinges of corrosion-resistant
material (see
Figure D-5.3.1.-A).
Figure D-5.3.1.-A
Typical fire stop flaps
D-5.3.2. Hold-open Devices
Fire stop flaps shall be held open with fusible links conforming
to
ULC-S505, “Fusible Links for Fire Protection Service,” or other heat-activated devices having a temperature rating approximately 30°C above the maximum temperature that would exist in the system either
with the system in operation or shut down.
Section D-6. Background Information
D-6.1. Fire Test Reports
Summaries of available fire test information have been published by the Institute
for Research in Construction (formerly the Division of Building Research) as follows:
M. Galbreath, Flame Spread Performance of Common Building Materials. Technical Paper
No. 170, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa,
April 1964. NRCC 7820.
M. Galbreath and W.W. Stanzak, Fire Endurance of Protected Steel Columns and Beams.
Technical Paper No. 194, Division of Building Research, National Research Council
Canada, Ottawa, April 1965. NRCC 8379.
T.Z. Harmathy and W.W. Stanzak, Elevated-Temperature Tensile and Creep Properties
of Some Structural and Prestressing Steels. American Society for Testing and Materials,
Special Technical Publication 464, 1970, p. 186 (DBR Research Paper No. 424) NRCC
11163.
T.Z. Harmathy, Thermal Performance of Concrete Masonry Walls in Fire. American Society
for Testing and Materials, Special Technical Publication 464, 1970, p. 209 (DBR Research
Paper No. 423) NRCC 11161.
L.W. Allen, Fire Endurance of Selected Non-Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Walls. DBR
Fire Study No. 25, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada,
Ottawa, March 1970. NRCC 11275.
A. Rose, Comparison of Flame Spread Ratings by Radiant Panel, Tunnel Furnace, and
Pittsburgh-Corning Apparatus. DBR Fire Study No. 22, Division of Building Research,
National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, June 1969. NRCC 10788.
T.T. Lie and D.E. Allen, Calculation of the Fire Resistance of Reinforced Concrete
Columns. DBR Technical Paper No. 378, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, August 1972. NRCC 12797.
W.W. Stanzak, Column Covers: A Practical Application of Sheet Steel as a Protective
Membrane. DBR Fire Study No. 27, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, February 1972. NRCC 12483.
W.W. Stanzak, Sheet Steel as a Protective Membrane for Steel Beams and Columns. DBR
Fire Study No. 23, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada,
Ottawa, November 1969. NRCC 10865.
W.W. Stanzak and T.T. Lie, Fire Tests on Protected Steel Columns with Different Cross-Sections.
DBR Fire Study No. 30, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada,
Ottawa, February 1973. NRCC 13072.
G. Williams-Leir and L.W. Allen, Prediction of Fire Endurance of Concrete Masonry
Walls. DBR Technical Paper No. 399, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, November 1973. NRCC 13560.
G. Williams-Leir, Prediction of Fire Endurance of Concrete Slabs. DBR Technical Paper
No. 398, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa,
November 1973. NRCC 13559.
A. Rose, Flammability of Fibreboard Interior Finish Materials. Building Research Note
No. 68, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, October
1969.
L.W. Allen, Effect of Sand Replacement on the Fire Endurance of Lightweight Aggregate
Masonry Units. DBR Fire Study No. 26, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, September 1971. NRCC 12112.
L.W. Allen, W.W. Stanzak and M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance Tests on Unit Masonry Walls
with Gypsum Wallboard. DBR Fire Study No. 32, Division of Building Research, National
Research Council Canada, Ottawa, February 1974, NRCC 13901.
W.W. Stanzak and T.T. Lie, Fire Resistance of Unprotected Steel Columns. Journal of
Structural Division, Proc., Am. Soc. Civ. Eng., Vol. 99, No. ST5 Proc. Paper 9719,
May 1973 (DBR Research Paper No. 577) NRCC 13589.
T.T. Lie and T.Z. Harmathy, Fire Endurance of Concrete-Protected Steel Columns. A.C.I.
Journal, January 1974, Title No. 71-4 (DBR Technical Paper No. 597) NRCC 13876.
T.T. Lie, A Method for Assessing the Fire Resistance of Laminated Timber Beams and
Columns. Can. J. Civ. Eng., Vol. 4, No. 2, June 1977 (DBR Technical Paper No. 718)
NRCC 15946.
T.T. Lie, Calculation of the Fire Resistance of Composite Concrete Floor and Roof
Slabs. Fire Technology, Vol. 14, No. 1, February 1978 (DBR Technical Paper No. 772)
NRCC 16658.
D-6.2. Obsolete Materials and Assemblies
Building materials, components and structural members and assemblies in buildings
constructed before 1995 may have been assigned ratings based on earlier editions of
the Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada or older reports of fire tests.
To assist users in determining the ratings of these obsolete assemblies and structural
members, the following list of reference documents has been prepared. Although some
of these publications are out of print, reference copies are available at the Institute
for Research in Construction, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, Ont., K1A
0R6.
M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance of Unit Masonry Walls. Technical Paper No. 207, Division
of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, October 1965. NRCC
8740.
M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance of Light Framed and Miscellaneous Assemblies. Technical
Paper No. 222, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa,
June 1966. NRCC 9085.
M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance of Concrete Assemblies. Technical Paper No. 235, Division
of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, November 1966. NRCC
9279.
Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies. Rehabilitation Guideline
#8, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Germantown, Maryland 20767,
October 1980.
T.Z. Harmathy, Fire Test of a Plank Wall Construction. Fire Study No. 2, Division
of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, July 1960. NRCC 5760.
T.Z. Harmathy, Fire Test of a Wood Partition. Fire Study No. 3, Division of Building
Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, October 1960. NRCC 5769.
D-6.3. Assessment of Archaic Assemblies
Information in this document applies to new construction. Please refer to early editions
of the Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada for the assessment or evaluation
of assemblies that do not conform to the information in this edition of the National
Building Code. As with other documents, this

By-law

is revised according to the information presented to the standing committee responsible for its content, and with each update new material may be added and material that
is not relevant may be deleted.
D-6.4. Development of the Component Additive Method
The component additive method was developed based upon the following observations
and conclusions drawn from published as well as unpublished test information.
Study of the test data showed that structural failure preceded failure by other criteria
(transmission of heat or hot gases) in most of the tests of loadbearing wood-framed
assemblies. The major contributor to fire resistance was the membrane on the fire-exposed
side.
Fire tests of wood joist floors without protective ceilings resulted in structural
failure between 8 and 10 min. Calculation of the time for wood joists to approach breaking stress, based upon
the charring rate of natural woods, suggested a time of 10 min for structural failure. This time was subtracted from the fire-resistance test results
of wood joist floors and the remainder considered to be the contribution of the membrane.
The figures obtained for the contribution of membranes were then applied to the test
results for open web steel joist floors and wood and steel stud walls and values of
20 min for the contribution of wood stud framing and 10 min for steel framing were derived.
The fire-resistance rating has been limited to 1.5 h as this method of developing ratings for framed assemblies was new and untried. Although
this is the subject of current review, no decision has been made to extend the ratings
beyond 1.5 h.
M. Galbreath, G. C. Gosselin, and R. B. Chauhan, Historical Guide to Chapter 2 of
the Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada, Committee Paper FPR 1-3, Prepared
for the Standing Committee on Fire Performance Ratings, May 1987.
Example showing fire-resistance rating of a typical membrane assembly, calculated
using the component additive method.
1 hour Gypsum Board/Wood Stud Interior Partition

NC2010 2010-01-01 R1
Appendix A — Division B
Fire-Performance Ratings
Section D. Background Information
D-6.1.Fire Test Reports
Summaries of available fire test information have been published by the Institute
for Research in Construction (formerly the Division of Building Research) as follows:
M. Galbreath, Flame Spread Performance of Common Building Materials. Technical Paper
No. 170, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa,
April 1964. NRCC 7820.
M. Galbreath and W.W. Stanzak, Fire Endurance of Protected Steel Columns and Beams.
Technical Paper No. 194, Division of Building Research, National Research Council
Canada, Ottawa, April 1965. NRCC 8379.
T.Z. Harmathy and W.W. Stanzak, Elevated-Temperature Tensile and Creep Properties
of Some Structural and Prestressing Steels. American Society for Testing and Materials,
Special Technical Publication 464, 1970, p. 186 (DBR Research Paper No. 424) NRCC
11163.
T.Z. Harmathy, Thermal Performance of Concrete Masonry Walls in Fire. American Society
for Testing and Materials, Special Technical Publication 464, 1970, p. 209 (DBR Research
Paper No. 423) NRCC 11161.
L.W. Allen, Fire Endurance of Selected Non-Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Walls. DBR
Fire Study No. 25, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada,
Ottawa, March 1970. NRCC 11275.
A. Rose, Comparison of Flame Spread Ratings by Radiant Panel, Tunnel Furnace, and
Pittsburgh-Corning Apparatus. DBR Fire Study No. 22, Division of Building Research,
National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, June 1969. NRCC 10788.
T.T. Lie and D.E. Allen, Calculation of the Fire Resistance of Reinforced Concrete
Columns. DBR Technical Paper No. 378, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, August 1972. NRCC 12797.
W.W. Stanzak, Column Covers: A Practical Application of Sheet Steel as a Protective
Membrane. DBR Fire Study No. 27, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, February 1972. NRCC 12483.
W.W. Stanzak, Sheet Steel as a Protective Membrane for Steel Beams and Columns. DBR
Fire Study No. 23, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada,
Ottawa, November 1969. NRCC 10865.
W.W. Stanzak and T.T. Lie, Fire Tests on Protected Steel Columns with Different Cross-Sections.
DBR Fire Study No. 30, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada,
Ottawa, February 1973. NRCC 13072.
G. Williams-Leir and L.W. Allen, Prediction of Fire Endurance of Concrete Masonry
Walls. DBR Technical Paper No. 399, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, November 1973. NRCC 13560.
G. Williams-Leir, Prediction of Fire Endurance of Concrete Slabs. DBR Technical Paper
No. 398, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa,
November 1973. NRCC 13559.
A. Rose, Flammability of Fibreboard Interior Finish Materials. Building Research Note
No. 68, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, October
1969.
L.W. Allen, Effect of Sand Replacement on the Fire Endurance of Lightweight Aggregate
Masonry Units. DBR Fire Study No. 26, Division of Building Research, National Research
Council Canada, Ottawa, September 1971. NRCC 12112.
L.W. Allen, W.W. Stanzak and M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance Tests on Unit Masonry Walls
with Gypsum Wallboard. DBR Fire Study No. 32, Division of Building Research, National
Research Council Canada, Ottawa, February 1974, NRCC 13901.
W.W. Stanzak and T.T. Lie, Fire Resistance of Unprotected Steel Columns. Journal of
Structural Division, Proc., Am. Soc. Civ. Eng., Vol. 99, No. ST5 Proc. Paper 9719,
May 1973 (DBR Research Paper No. 577) NRCC 13589.
T.T. Lie and T.Z. Harmathy, Fire Endurance of Concrete-Protected Steel Columns. A.C.I.
Journal, January 1974, Title No. 71-4 (DBR Technical Paper No. 597) NRCC 13876.
T.T. Lie, A Method for Assessing the Fire Resistance of Laminated Timber Beams and
Columns. Can. J. Civ. Eng., Vol. 4, No. 2, June 1977 (DBR Technical Paper No. 718)
NRCC 15946.
T.T. Lie, Calculation of the Fire Resistance of Composite Concrete Floor and Roof
Slabs. Fire Technology, Vol. 14, No. 1, February 1978 (DBR Technical Paper No. 772)
NRCC 16658.
D-6.2.Obsolete Materials and Assemblies
Building materials, components and structural members and assemblies in buildings
constructed before 1995 may have been assigned ratings based on earlier editions of
the Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada or older reports of fire tests.
To assist users in determining the ratings of these obsolete assemblies and structural
members, the following list of reference documents has been prepared. Although some
of these publications are out of print, reference copies are available at the Institute
for Research in Construction, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, Ont., K1A
0R6.
M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance of Unit Masonry Walls. Technical Paper No. 207, Division
of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, October 1965. NRCC
8740.
M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance of Light Framed and Miscellaneous Assemblies. Technical
Paper No. 222, Division of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa,
June 1966. NRCC 9085.
M. Galbreath, Fire Endurance of Concrete Assemblies. Technical Paper No. 235, Division
of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, November 1966. NRCC
9279.
Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies. Rehabilitation Guideline
#8, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Germantown, Maryland 20767,
October 1980.
T.Z. Harmathy, Fire Test of a Plank Wall Construction. Fire Study No. 2, Division
of Building Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, July 1960. NRCC 5760.
T.Z. Harmathy, Fire Test of a Wood Partition. Fire Study No. 3, Division of Building
Research, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, October 1960. NRCC 5769.
D-6.3.Assessment of Archaic Assemblies
Information in this document applies to new construction. Please refer to early editions
of the Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada for the assessment or evaluation
of assemblies that do not conform to the information in this edition of the National
Building Code. As with other documents, this
By-lawCode is revised according to the information presented to the standing committee responsible
for its content, and with each update new material may be added and material that
is not relevant may be deleted.
D-6.4.Development of the Component Additive Method
The component additive method was developed based upon the following observations
and conclusions drawn from published as well as unpublished test information.
Study of the test data showed that structural failure preceded failure by other criteria
(transmission of heat or hot gases) in most of the tests of loadbearing wood-framed
assemblies. The major contributor to fire resistance was the membrane on the fire-exposed
side.
Fire tests of wood joist floors without protective ceilings resulted in structural
failure between 8 and 10 min. Calculation of the time for wood joists to approach breaking stress, based upon
the charring rate of natural woods, suggested a time of 10 min for structural failure. This time was subtracted from the fire-resistance test results
of wood joist floors and the remainder considered to be the contribution of the membrane.
The figures obtained for the contribution of membranes were then applied to the test
results for open web steel joist floors and wood and steel stud walls and values of
20 min for the contribution of wood stud framing and 10 min for steel framing were derived.
The fire-resistance rating has been limited to 1.5 h as this method of developing ratings for framed assemblies was new and untried. Although
this is the subject of current review, no decision has been made to extend the ratings
beyond 1.5 h.
M. Galbreath, G. C. Gosselin, and R. B. Chauhan, Historical Guide to Chapter 2 of
the Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada, Committee Paper FPR 1-3, Prepared
for the Standing Committee on Fire Performance Ratings, May 1987.
Example showing fire-resistance rating of a typical membrane assembly, calculated
using the component additive method.
1 hour Gypsum Board/Wood Stud Interior Partition
A 1 h fire-resistance rating is required for an interior wood framed partition, using 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard.
- Since gypsum wallboard is used (D-2.3.4.(2) and Table D-2.3.4.A.) time assigned to 12.7 mm Type X gypsum wallboard membrane on the fire-exposed side of the partition = 25 min
- Time assigned to wood framing members at 400 mm o.c. (D-2.3.4.(3) and Table D-2.3.4.C.) = 20 min
- Time assigned to insulation, if the spaces between the studs are filled with preformed
insulation of rock or slag fibres conforming to CAN/ULC-S702, “Mineral Fibre Thermal Insulation for Buildings,” (D-2.3.4.(4) and Table D-2.3.4.D.) = 15 min
- Time assigned to the membrane on the non-fire-exposed side (D-2.3.5.(1)) = 0 min
Fire-resistance rating = 25 + 20 + 15 = 60 min