Fire Safety Insights

How Flameproofing Is Different from Fireproofing

Flameproofing and fireproofing support the same safety goal, but they generally apply to different materials and parts of a building.

September 24, 2019

Flameproofing and fireproofing support the same safety goal, but they generally apply to different materials and parts of a building.

Two Related but Distinct Practices

Flameproofing usually concerns decorative or artistic materials inside a finished space, such as curtains, scenery, fabrics, hangings, greenery, and some wood products. Eligible items are inherently resistant or treated with an approved fire retardant so they do not readily support combustion.

Fireproofing more often describes protection applied to structural building components, frequently during construction. It is designed to help assemblies maintain performance during fire exposure. A venue may need both approaches, along with alarms, sprinklers, clear exits, and other required safeguards.

Plan for Compliance and Safety

Requirements depend on the venue, material, installation, and current rules. Have a qualified professional review the project, retain all product and treatment records, and coordinate flameproofing with the rest of the property's fire-safety plan.

What a Business Owner Should Confirm

Flameproofing should begin with a clear written scope. The provider needs to identify each material, determine whether it is inherently resistant or treatable, and select an approved product compatible with the item. The customer should understand where the work will occur, how the finished space will be protected, and how much drying time is required.

Credentials and communication are equally important. Confirm the appropriate FDNY Certificate of Fitness, insurance coverage, and who will perform or supervise the application and testing. Ask what happens if a sample does not pass or if the treatment changes the material's appearance.

Before Accepting the Completed Work

Compare the completed work with the original material inventory.
Confirm required testing occurred after adequate drying.
Review the treatment product and Certificate of Fitness information.
Receive the affidavit and instructions for cleaning and handling.
Record the date for future review, expiration, or retreatment.

A professional company should answer questions without overstating what treatment can do. Flameproofing is an important part of compliance and risk reduction, but it remains one layer of the venue's complete fire-safety plan.

Original Topic

Read the original Queens Flameproofing article