fire proofing structural steel / inspector vs contractor

[boffintech]

Based on the information shown below from IBC-06 and IBC-06 Commentary I say hangers placed on structural steel members require 1" min. spray applied fire-resistive material. The contractor foolishly claims not and has supplied the attached diagram as his interpretation of IBC-06.

The key, I believe, is the last sentence in the commentary which reads, "This section is intended to limit the transfer of heat to the structural element from the connection elements by requiring the connection element to be protected with at least 1 inch (25 mm) of some form of protection."

I say his diagram, while somewhat interesting and slightly entertaining, is completely wrong.

What say you? I there anyway I'm not right???

IBC-06
714.2.4 Attachments to structural members. The edges of lugs, brackets, rivets and bolt heads attached to structural members shall be permitted to extend to within 1 inch (25 mm)of the surface of the fire protection.

IBC-06 Commentary
714.2.4 ASTM E 119 allows for either the structural element to be tested under maximum load conditions to ascertain its load-carrying capability under the prescribed rating time period or an alternative test of the protection. Under the alternative test, one of the key considerations when testing steel structural elements is the heat transfer through the protective covering and the corresponding temperature increase in the range of 1,000 to 1,300°F (538 to 704°C), depending on the type of element. Concrete structural elements have similar restrictions regarding reinforcing steel (see Section 714.2.5). This section is intended to limit the transfer of heat to the structural element from the connection elements by requiring the connection element to be protected with at least 1 inch (25 mm) of some form of protection.

 

[jike]

I must say that your contractor certainly has a unique way of intrepretation of this section. I am with you and have seen many hospital projects with the same situation where the lug is covered with fireproofing. The contractor has to come back and touch these areas up.

 

[JStephen]

With the interpretation per the sketch, the stated requirement would be pointless- there wouldn't be any reason to "permit" the item within 1" if closer were better.

 

[Ron]

BT...such gaps are not allowable. The shaft of the hanger and its interface with the beam must be protected.

I agree with you and Jike.

 

[JAE]

Agreed. The connections must be covered with a minimum of 1".

If the 1" were a clear distance away from fire protection, why is it a minimum?