FM Global

Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets 1-57

January 2018
Page 1 of 14

PLASTICS IN CONSTRUCTION

Table of Contents
Page

1.0 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 Changes ............................................................................................................................................ 3
1.2 Hazard ............................................................................................................................................. 3
2.0 LOSS PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................ 4
2.1 General Requirements .................................................................................................................... 4
2.2 FRP Panels ...................................................................................................................................... 4
2.2.1 Unbacked Single-Layer FRP Panels ................................................................................... 4
2.2.2 Backed FRP Panels ................................................................................................................ 4
2.2.3 FRP-Structural Applications .................................................................................................... 4
2.3 Rigid PVC Panels .............................................................................................................................. 5
2.3.1 Unbacked Rigid PVC Panels .................................................................................................. 5
2.3.2 Backed Rigid PVC Panels ...................................................................................................... 5
2.4 Metal-Faced, Foam-Plastic Sandwich Panels with Polyurethane or Polyisocyanurate Insulation ... 5
2.4.1 Construction and Location ...................................................................................................... 5
2.5 EPS Sandwich Panels ....................................................................................................................... 5
2.5.1 Construction and Location ...................................................................................................... 5
2.6 Plastic Skylights/Rooflights and Wall Light-Bands ............................................................................ 5
2.6.1 Construction and Location ...................................................................................................... 5
2.6.2 Plastic Skylights/Rooflights Sprinkler Obstructions ................................................................. 5
2.7 Other Plastics in Construction Applications ....................................................................................... 6
2.7.1 Spray-Applied Polyurethane .................................................................................................... 6
2.7.2 Outdoor Storage Tank Applications ......................................................................................... 6
2.7.3 Elastomeric Insulation ............................................................................................................. 6
2.7.4 Metal Composite Panels ......................................................................................................... 6
2.8 Miscellaneous .................................................................................................................................... 6
2.8.1 Human Element ....................................................................................................................... 6
2.8.2 Ignition Source Control ............................................................................................................ 7
3.0 SUPPORT FOR RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................................. 7
3.1 Behavior of Plastic Materials in a Fire .............................................................................................. 7
3.1.1 Polyurethane ........................................................................................................................... 7
3.1.2 EPS ......................................................................................................................................... 7
3.1.3 Thermal Barriers and Metal Skins for Polyurethane, Polyisocyanurate, and EPS ................. 8
3.1.4 Plastic Building Panels ............................................................................................................ 8
3.1.5 Outdoor Storage Tanks ........................................................................................................... 9
4.0 REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1 FM Global ........................................................................................................................................ 9
4.2 Others ................................................................................................................................................ 9
APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF TERMS ....................................................................................................... 9
APPENDIX B DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY ..................................................................................... 12
APPENDIX C PROPERTIES OF PLASTIC MATERIALS AND FIRE TESTS .......................................... 13
C.1 FM Global Corner Tests ................................................................................................................ 13
C.2 Flammability Characterization Test ................................................................................................ 13
C.3 Polyurethane .................................................................................................................................. 13
C.4 Expanded and Extruded Polystyrene (EPS) .................................................................................. 13

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stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in whole or in part, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission of Factory Mutual Insurance Company.
1-57 Plastics in Construction
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C.5 Rigid Plastic Panels ....................................................................................................................... 14

List of Figures
Fig. 1. Cooler panel locking joint ................................................................................................................. 10
Fig. 2. Typical plastic building panels .......................................................................................................... 11
Fig. 3. Typical usage of reinforced plastic building panels .......................................................................... 11

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Plastics in Construction 1-57
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 3

1.0 SCOPE
This data sheet provides recommendations for the use, construction, and fire protection of selected plastic
building materials. Materials covered include the following:
• Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP)
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic
• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polycarbonate (PC) plastics.
• Polyurethane (PU) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulated panels
• Expanded and extruded polystyrene (EPS) insulated panels
• Spray-applied insulations including polyurethane (PU) foam, cellulose, and icynene
• Plastic structural members
Some of the applications specifically covered in this data sheet are wall and ceiling panels, sandwich panels
used for roof construction, spray-applied PU, outdoor storage tanks, and elastomeric insulation.
Not covered in this data sheet are heated plastic tanks, ductwork, piping, and exterior exposure protection
of plastic panels.
For recommendations on plastic ductwork, see Data Sheet 7-78, Industrial Exhaust Systems. For
recommendations on wind resistance for exterior wall and roof panels, see Data Sheet 1-28, Wind Design.
For recommendations on concealed spaces and cavity wall construction, see Data Sheet 1-12, Ceiling and
Concealed Spaces. For recommendations on exterior fire exposure, see Data Sheet 1-20, Protection Against
Exterior Fire Exposure.
References to PU also apply to PIR unless specifically noted otherwise. References to EPS apply to both
expanded and extruded polystyrene.
For FM Approved products, refer to any limitations highlighted within the Approval Guide, an online resource
of FM Approvals. A listing of FM 4910 materials can be found in the Approval Guide under the category
“Specification Tested.” .

1.1 Changes
January 2018. This document has been completely revised. The following significant changes were made:
A. Clarified recommendations to emphasize the use of FM Approved plastic construction materials.
B. Simplified recommendations for intermediate wall sprinklers.

1.2 Hazard
Plastic materials are used frequently in building construction because they provide many advantages. What
often is not recognized, however, is that all plastic materials are combustible and burn with varying degrees
of intensity. Automatic sprinklers installed to protect the occupancy are not always adequate to protect
against a fire involving walls and ceilings made of plastic material. With some burning plastics, fire can
propagate faster than standard automatic sprinklers can operate.
Small-scale materials testing at FM Global has shown that foam plastic materials have a heat of combustion
at least two times (PU, PIR) to three times (polystyrene) that of ordinary combustible materials such as wood,
paper, and cardboard.
In industries particularly sensitive to smoke and contamination, such as food, semiconductor, and
pharmaceutical, even a small fire involving plastic materials can cause a large monetary loss. And certain
plastics, such as PC used in skylights, may soften and sag, obstructing automatic sprinklers below them.
For more information, refer to FM Global’s Understanding The Hazard brochure Plastics in Construction
(P0242).

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2.0 LOSS PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS

Review Appendix A, Glossary of Terms, prior to reading the following recommendations as the terms in this
data sheet have very specific meanings.

2.1 General Requirements

2.1.1 Use noncombustible building materials. Where plastic construction materials are needed due to site
conditions, use FM Approved (see Appendix A for definition) Class 1 materials, including within concealed
spaces. Use all products within the limits of their FM Approval only. FM Approved 4882 panels are available
for use in smoke sensitive occupancies. FM Approved materials are required to have the Approval mark on
the packaging or the material itself. Materials without proper labeling are not FM Approved; do not treat them
as such.
2.1.2 Protect spaces above suspended ceilings per Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces.
2.1.3 Do not use individual comparative testing, such as ASTM E84 (USA) single burning item (SBI), ignition
resistance, and/or heat of combustion-type testing or results as the sole means of classifying plastic building
materials. Unless noted otherwise, disregard these tests for all plastics. Similarly, ignore performance
observed when exposed to match-scale ignition sources in non-standard testing (testing methods and
standards that are not nationally recognized). These tests do not reliably predict the fire behavior of plastic
building materials. Also, ignore tests specifically done for life safety purposes only and not property
protection. (See Data Sheet 1-4, Fire Tests.)
2.1.4 When FM Approved ceiling and/or wall panels are used in accordance with their FM Approval listing,
sprinkler protection is not required.
2.1.5 Do not use exposed foam plastic panels (PU, PIR, EPS) on walls and/or ceilings.
2.1.6 General Fire Protection Requirements
2.1.6.1 Using dry-pipe sprinkler systems that meet a 30-second water delivery time are acceptable. Equip
systems with a quick-opening device, if needed. (See Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic
Sprinklers, for installation details). Arrange sprinklers on a suitable antifreeze sprinkler system.

2.2 FRP Panels

2.2.1 Unbacked Single-Layer FRP Panels

2.2.1.1 Construction and Location of Unbacked FRP Panels
2.2.1.1.1 Use FM Approved FRP panels in accordance with their Approval listings.
2.2.1.2 Protection for Unbacked FRP Panels
2.2.1.2.1 Use FM Approved unbacked FRP panels in accordance with their Approval listing.

2.2.2 Backed FRP Panels

2.2.2.1 Construction and Location of Backed FRP Panels
2.2.2.1.1 Provide FM Approved FRP panels on noncombustible backing.

2.2.2.2 Protection for Backed FRP Panels

2.2.2.2.1 FM Approved FRP panels installed on a NC backing and used in accordance with their Approval
limitations typically do not require sprinkler protection.

2.2.3 FRP-Structural Applications

2.2.3.1 Use noncombustible wall/roof construction or FM Approved plastic building panels for buildings
constructed entirely with FRP structural components.
2.2.3.2 Ensure structural design of FRP members is performed by a design professional experienced in the
use of these materials.

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2.3 Rigid PVC Panels

2.3.1 Unbacked Rigid PVC Panels

2.3.1.1 Construction and Location of Unbacked Rigid PVC Panels
2.3.1.1.1 Use FM Approved PVC panels in accordance with their Approval listing.
2.3.1.2 Protection for Unbacked Rigid PVC Panels
2.3.1.2.1 FM Approved PVC panels installed and used in accordance with their Approval limitations typically
do not require sprinkler protection.

2.3.2 Backed Rigid PVC Panels

2.3.2.1 Construction and Location of Backed Rigid PVC Panels
2.3.2.1.1 Provide FM Approved PVC panels on a noncombustible backing.
2.3.2.2 Protection for Backed PVC Panels
2.3.2.2.1 FM Approved PVC panels installed on a noncombustible backing and used in accordance with
their Approval limitations typically do not require sprinkler protection.

2.4 Metal-Faced, Foam-Plastic Sandwich Panels with Polyurethane or Polyisocyanurate Insulation

Foam plastic sandwich panels include PU and PIR panels with facings. The facings could be metal (steel or
aluminum), rigid plastic (FRP or PVC), or aluminum foil. An aluminum-foil-faced panel is often referred to
as a “sheathing panel.”
Plastic-faced foam plastic sandwich panels are addressed in Sections 2.2.2 and 2.3.2.
A plastic panel laminated onto a wood, cellulose, or mineral board backing is not a sandwich panel but a
backed plastic panel. Also, a thin film such as a vinyl of a few mils (not mms) thickness on a backer is
considered to have the combustibility of the backer.
Sprinkler protection and proper fastening of the panel facings are both needed to prevent an uncontrolled
fire in this type of construction.

2.4.1 Construction and Location

2.4.1.1 Use FM Approved metal-faced sandwich panels in accordance with their Approval listings and panel
fastening requirements.

2.5 EPS Sandwich Panels

2.5.1 Construction and Location

2.5.1.1 As there are no FM Approved EPS core sandwich panels, do not use EPS core sandwich panels.

2.6 Plastic Skylights/Rooflights and Wall Light-Bands

2.6.1 Construction and Location

2.6.1.1 Use FM Approved or less-combustible plastic materials for roof lights and wall light-bands. These
include materials such as polycarbonate, PET, or PVC.
2.6.1.2 Do not use PMMA (acrylic) or non-FR-treated FRP for rooflights and wall light-bands. The flammability
characteristics (low critical heat flux) are such that these materials are easy to ignite and fire spreads rapidly.

2.6.2 Plastic Skylights/Rooflights Sprinkler Obstructions

2.6.2.1 To prevent thermoplastic rooflights (acrylic, PVC, and PC) from obstructing sprinklers by softening
and sagging onto them in a fire, use one of the following protection methods. Thermoset plastic rooflights, such
as FRP, do not pose this hazard.

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1-57 Plastics in Construction
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A. For new sprinkler installations, engineer the sprinklers around the rooflights so the sagging rooflights
do not obstruct them in accordance with Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers.
To engineer the position of the sprinklers, there are three major factors to consider: (1) spacing between
sprinklers; (2) distance from the underside of the ceiling; (3) obstructions to the water spray pattern.
B. For new construction, replace sections of the skylight material with wired-glass or FR-treated FRP,
and locate the sprinklers beneath those minimum 18 in. (450 mm) wide rooflight sections. Ideally, locate
the sprinklers away from the skylights.
C. Fit a fire-retardant treated liner sheet, minimum 0.04 in. (1 mm) thick, beneath the thermoplastic
rooflight. The liner should either be fitted close to and follow the contour of the rooflight, or be a continuous
flat sheet within the same plane as the ceiling.
D. Fit a metal plate with minimum dimensions of 18 in. (450 mm) x 18 in. (450 mm) above each sprinkler
head. If there is difficulty encountered constructing such a metal plate above each sprinkler head, the
use of an in-rack sprinkler head with a protective water shield is a tolerable arrangement.
FM Approved plastic skylights/rooflights do not require sprinkler protection and have no dimension limitations.
FM Approved thermoplastic rooflights (acrylic, PVC, and PC) are also subject to the same concerns of
softening and sagging.

2.7 Other Plastics in Construction Applications

2.7.1 Spray-Applied Polyurethane

2.7.1.1 As there are no FM Approved spray-applied PU insulation products for interior building application,
do not use spray-applied PU insulation products for interior building application.

2.7.2 Outdoor Storage Tank Applications

2.7.2.1 Insulate tanks with noncombustible materials, or use FM Approved Class 1 materials for tank cladding.
2.7.2.2 Do not use any plastic insulation on tanks that store oxidizing materials. In addition, do not use plastic
insulation on tanks storing hazardous materials with a reactivity rating of 2 or greater per NFPA 704,
Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response.
2.7.2.3 For recommendations regarding plastic tanks and plastic-lined tanks with immersion heaters, refer
to Data Sheet 7-6, Heated Plastic and Plastic-Lined Tanks.
2.7.2.4 Protect any indoor plastic insulated steel storage tank applications with the same approach as outlined
above, with the exception that any fire protective coating used does not need to be suitable for outdoor use.

2.7.3 Elastomeric Insulation

Elastomeric insulation is used to wrap both pipes and ducts as an exterior insulation material. It is found in
either tubular-shaped wrapping round materials or in flat sheets wrapping rectangular materials. In some
cases it is also used to line the underfloor of subfloor spaces. The heat of combustion of this material is
considerably higher than that of wood and is within the range of typical PU foams.
2.7.3.1 Use noncombustible or FM Approved pipe or duct insulation.

2.7.4 Metal Composite Panels

2.7.4.1 As there are no FM Approved metal composite panels (MCM and ACM), do not use metal composite
panels.

2.8 Miscellaneous

2.8.1 Human Element

2.8.1.1 For buildings under construction, limit storage of plastic building materials as outlined in Data Sheet
1-0, Safeguards During Construction, Alteration, and Demolition.

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Plastics in Construction 1-57
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 7

2.8.2 Ignition Source Control

2.8.2.1 Explore alternatives to all hot work on roofs with plastic skylights or at roof level on the inside of the
building, as well as in areas where plastic building materials have been installed. Hot work is the most
common ignition source of a fire involving plastic skylights. Much of this hot work occurs during construction,
alteration, or demolition (see Data Sheet 1-0). If there is no alternative to hot work in the proximity of plastic
building materials, then use the FM Global hot work permit system (see Data Sheet 10-3, Hot Work
Management).

3.0 SUPPORT FOR RECOMMENDATIONS

Both small-scale and large-scale fire testing performed by FM Global has shown that non-FM Approved plastic
building materials will ignite easily and burn rapidly. Some plastics tend to char, whereas others (such as
polystyrene) will melt, forming an ignitable liquid. In sprinklered applications, the use of thermal barriers and/or
metal sheathing will delay ignition for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the sprinklers time to control the fire.
Further details and discussion on the FM Global small-scale fire testing approach using our Fire Propagation
Apparatus (FPA) and the flammability testing on thermoset plastic wall and ceiling panels is addressed in
Data Sheet 1-4, Fire Tests. As part of this testing, an FPI (fire propagation index) or FSPc (convective flame
spread parameter) testing value is calculated relative to the need for sprinkler protection and the panel’s
equivalency to a Class 1 product.
Further details on the behavior of plastic building materials in a fire and the rationale behind the protection
approaches for this fire challenge can be found in FM Global’s Understanding the Hazard publication, Plastics
in Construction (P0242).

3.1 Behavior of Plastic Materials in a Fire

3.1.1 Polyurethane
Fire-retardant additives can markedly improve the performance of foamed plastic in comparative fire tests
such as ASTM E84. Large-scale corner testing has indicated, however, that the performance of foamed plastic
under actual fire conditions is not significantly affected by the use of these additives. Consequently, claims
for fire retardancy based on the ASTM E84 tunnel test and similar comparative tests should be disregarded
for foamed plastic.
PU is a combustible material that exhibits certain properties under fire conditions that make a comparison
of its performance to ordinary combustibles through the use of most small-scale test procedures very
unreliable. However, plastics that burn vigorously in bench-scale ignition source tests can be expected to
present a severe hazard in an actual fire.
When exposed to fire or sufficient heat, PU decomposes at approximately 450°F (230°C), and ignition occurs
at 600°F to 700°F (315°C to 370°C). Ignition results in the production of dense acrid smoke, and flames
can flash rapidly across the surface of the material.
The use of inert facings, such as steel or 0.032 in. (0.8 mm) aluminum, in FM Approved PU insulated sandwich
panels allows the properly formulated foam core to char when exposed to an ignition source. This charring
helps protect the remaining foam and keeps fire propagation to within acceptable limits.

3.1.2 EPS
EPS will melt at temperatures lower than 400°F (205°C), forming an ignitable liquid. The peak rate of
polystyrene decomposition and volatilization occurs at 687°F (364°C). At this temperature the vapor release
will cause rapid flame spread across the exposed surface. Automatic sprinklers are not always effective in
confining the fire to a small area. EPS does not tend to smolder or char.
EPS has a heat content in the range of 16,000 to 18,000 Btu/lb (37-42,000 kJ/kg). Because it melts and
forms an ignitable liquid, the amount of fuel available to a building fire from EPS products is directly related
to the amount of EPS present (thickness times density).
EPS can be ignited by open flame and will burn in the presence of a flame generated by other fuels. It tends
to shrink away from heat sources prior to ignition. To maintain burning, the heat source must be either
sufficiently large or follow the shrinking material. For this reason, attempts to maintain ignition of EPS with
a stationary match or Bunsen Burner may not be successful. Thus, this phenomenon allows EPS to obtain

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relatively low flame spread values via the ASTM E84 test method. However, in a larger fire, such as one
involving even a small amount of building contents, the heat source will be sufficient to sustain intense burning.
Burning EPS emits a very dense black smoke containing oily, sooty particulate matter. Thus, a relatively
small fire involving EPS in food warehouses, freezers, or electronic equipment areas can result in
contamination of the entire area.
As with PU, additives do not significantly affect the burning characteristics, except that they may delay ignition.
However, FM Approved EPS sheathing products employ specific formulations and limited product density
and thicknesses to achieve a lower hazard than would normally be produced. The ignition of these products
is sufficiently delayed so that foam rapidly shrinks away from the heat source without propagating flame
spread. This allows sprinklers, required by the FM Approval, sufficient time to fuse and gain control of the
fire.

3.1.3 Thermal Barriers and Metal Skins for Polyurethane, Polyisocyanurate, and EPS
The intent of thermal barriers and/or metal sheathing (not foil facing) in sprinklered applications is to delay
ignition of the plastic for 10 to 15 minutes to allow sprinklers time to control the fire. In noncombustible
occupancies, thermal barriers (not metal skins) allow non-FM Approved plastic building materials to remain
in place without sprinkler protection. For the thermal barrier to be effective, it must remain in contact with the
foam (or the panel skin).
When EPS or board stock PU sheathing or sandwich panels are used, the smooth surface will allow the
use of board stock thermal barriers. These barriers are not suitable for PU or icynene that is sprayed in place.
The uneven surface resulting from this application will not allow proper contact with the sheathing. FM
Approved coatings or Portland cement plaster, 1/2 in. (13 mm) thick, will provide an adequate thermal barrier
for PU or EPS. To ensure adhesion, metal lath secured to the building structure is used with cement plaster.
Plastic sheets (FRP or PVC) are sometimes adhered directly to an EPS or PU core to give a clean, washable
surface. This does not provide a suitable thermal barrier. Since the laminate itself may be prone to rapid flame
spread, the combination may be particularly hazardous even if the underlying foam does not need a thermal
barrier. During a fire, flames can flash across the plastic surface. As the facing burns through, the foam
becomes rapidly involved and conditions worsen. Normal sprinkler arrangements used in full-scale tests have
been unable to control fires involving some plastic laminates on foam plastic.

3.1.4 Plastic Building Panels

All plastic panels, whether fire retardant treated or not, are combustible. Full-scale tests by FM Global showed
that many non-FM Approved panels ignite easily and burn rapidly, producing intense flaming and high ceiling
temperatures, even when automatic sprinklers are used. Panels that burn through within approximately 2
minutes after ignition allow heat to escape. Once the temperature at the ceiling drops, flame propagation
stops.
Analysis of the successful tests indicates that several factors contributed to the acceptable performance.
These are noted below:
A. Backing: The panels must be unbacked. Backings prevent heat dissipation, negating the main method
by which the rapid flame spread is usually controlled in older panels.
B. Automatic sprinklers: Sprinklers slow the horizontal flame spread, lower ceiling temperatures, and
provide rapid extinguishment after the heat is dissipated.
C. Fire retardants: Even though the flame spread is initially very rapid, fire retardants prevent even faster
spread. They also contribute to the tendency of burning to stall once the heat is dissipated.
D. Panel thickness: Panels must be 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) or less, and weigh approximately 8 oz/ft2 (2.4 kg/m2)
or less, allowing for fairly rapid burn-through. Thicker sheets delay burn-through, generally resulting in
more extensive flame spread.
If the product does not meet the above criteria, the flame spread may be so fast, or burn-through so slow,
that a fire could cause an excessive number of sprinklers to open. The sprinklers may fuse behind the traveling
flame front, without effectively preventing spread; hindering control of the occupancy fire.
While FRP panels may be acceptable for use as roofing panels, they are not acceptable as the deck
component in insulated deck construction, unless qualified by FM Approval testing. The internal fire spread

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FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 9

potential of this type of construction is greater than that for steel deck or the panel itself. There also is the
potential for collapse, as the panel would not maintain its integrity during a fire.

3.1.5 Outdoor Storage Tanks

PU is often used to insulate outdoor storage tanks. If such tanks contain an ignitable liquid, the PU could
allow the fire to spread from the exterior of the tank to the liquid within. Burning of the insulation could also
raise the temperature of a reactive material sufficiently to cause a violent reaction. Temperature-sensitive
materials (i.e., wine) could be rendered useless by a fire and/or subsequent loss of insulation although if the
insulation just chars and doesn’t fully burn away the storage tank contents will likely not spoil and need to
be discarded. So if the tank insulation is a material like polystyrene which might fully burn away versus PU,
it could impact the contamination of the tank contents. The outside temperature that the tank contents are
exposed to could also impact the likelihood for content spoilage. Oxidizing agents can, in the event of leakage,
react with the PU insulation, causing spontaneous ignition.
Tanks often are instrumented for process control. Wires, cables, cable trays, control tubing, etc., are exposed
to possible damage from a fire in PU insulation, resulting in an interruption to production.

4.0 REFERENCES

4.1 FM Global
Data Sheet 1-0, Safeguards During Construction, Alteration and Demolition
Data Sheet 1-4, Fire Tests
Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces
Data Sheet 1-20, Protection Against Exterior Fire Exposure
Data Sheet 1-28, Wind Design
Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers
Data Sheet 3-26, Fire Protection Water Demand for Nonstorage Sprinklered Properties
Data Sheet 7-6, Heated Plastic and Plastic-Lined Tanks
Data Sheet 7-7, Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities
Data Sheet 7-78, Industrial Exhaust Systems
Data Sheet 7-88, Ignitable Liquid Storage Tanks
Data Sheet 8-1, Commodity Classification
Data Sheet 8-29, Refrigerated Storage
Data Sheet 10-3, Hot Work Management
Approval Guide, a publication of FM Approvals, Building Materials Section
FM Approvals Approval Standard 4880, Class 1 Fire Rating of Insulated Wall or Wall and Roof/Ceiling Panels,
Interior Finish Materials or Coatings, and Exterior Wall Systems
FM Approvals Approval Standard 4882, Class 1 Interior Wall and Ceiling Materials or Systems in Smoke
Sensitive Occupancies

4.2 Others
British Standards Institute (BSI). BS 8414, Fire Performance of External Cladding Systems.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). NFPA 285, Standard Fire Test Method for Evaluation of Fire
Propagation Characteristics of Exterior Non-Load-Bearing Wall Assemblies Containing Combustible
Components.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). NFPA 704, Standard System of the Identification of the Hazards
of Materials for Emergency Response.

APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Approval Guide: An online resource of FM Approvals that lists FM Approved products and services.
Architectural sandwich panel: Sandwich panels that form the building envelope (outside surface of the
building). They are secured to horizontal and/or vertical structural members. Compare to free-standing
sandwich panels.

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Backed: Any solid material, combustible or noncombustible, to which plastic interior finish materials are
applied.
Barrel vault: A curved rooflight. Typically the vertical rise is 1/6 of the span.
Cast: The term used to describe the solid form of PMMA sheet material. The manufacturing process is either
continuous cast or cell cast.
Double glazed: Two sheets of material separated by an air gap and assembled as a rooflight unit, e.g., double
glazed barrel vault rooflight.
Elastomeric insulation: A polymer with the property of elasticity. The term is often used interchangeably with
the term rubber and has a primary use for seals, adhesives, and molded flexible parts.
EPS: In the context of this data sheet, EPS includes expanded and extruded polystyrene.
FM Approved: Products and services that have satisfied the criteria for FM Approval. Refer to the Approval
Guide, an online resource of FM Approvals, for a complete listing of products and services that are
FM Approved.
FR: Fire retardant
Free standing sandwich panel: Panel systems that do not utilize separate structural supports. A typical use
is in walk-in coolers/freezers constructed within a building. They typically incorporate locking devices within
the panel joints. See Figure 1. The ceiling panels, however, may be suspended on rods.

Courtesy of Mid-South Industries

Fig. 1. Cooler panel locking joint

Foamed plastic: Materials including polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, foamed melamine, phenolic foam, and
EPS.
FRP: Fiberglass reinforced plastic, one type of interior finish or building panel consisting of a glass
reinforcement and resin. FRP is a thermoset material. In some countries this is referred to as GRP.
Multi-wall: Used to describe acrylic and polycarbonate extruded sheet materials that have a cellular structure.
The most common type is twin-wall, which is extruded in thicknesses ranging from 0.24 to 0.64 in. (6 to 16
mm) thick. Multi-wall also is extruded as tri-wall, four-wall, five-wall, and six-wall in thicknesses up to 1.4
in. (35 mm) thick.
MMM: Methyl methacrylate monomer. Used as resin in some FRPs.
Noncombustible Material: A material that will not ignite, burn, support combustion, or release vapors when
subjected to fire or heat.
Northlight: The glazed section of a saw-tooth roof. It is referred to as a northlight in the northern hemisphere,
as the glazed section points approximately north to avoid direct sunlight entering the building.
PC: Polycarbonate. This is made in extruded multi-wall and solid sheet form.
PET: Polyethylene terephthalate. Made only in a solid sheet form.

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Plastic building panel: a rigid plastic sheet (FRP, polycarbonate or PVC), usually corrugated, applied to the
exterior of the structural framing without backing. It forms the building envelope; see Figures 2 and
3.Compare to plastic interior finish material.

Fig. 2. Typical plastic building panels

Fig. 3. Typical usage of reinforced plastic building panels

Plastic building materials: All materials within the scope of this data sheet.
Plastic interior finish material: Rigid (not foamed or expanded) plastic sheets (usually FRP or PVC) that are
applied to a backing material such as concrete block. Compare to plastic building panel.
PMMA: Polymethyl methacrylate. Also commonly referred to as acrylic. This is made in extruded multi-wall
and solid sheet, and also in continuous and cell cast form.
PVC: Polyvinyl chloride, a thermoplastic polymer used as the basis for some interior finish or building panels.
PVC-based panels are usually not reinforced. Made only in solid sheet form. In some countries the term
UPVC, is used, as the PVC has low plasticizer content. In this data sheet the generic term PVC has been
adopted.
Saddle: A continuous rooflight which is installed above the roof line, forming a triangular shape in cross-
section.
Sandwich panel: A wall or ceiling/roof panel usually consisting of a polyurethane, polyisocyanurate or EPS
core, faced on both sides with metal or rigid plastic.

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Sheathing panel: An insulating panel (typically made from foam plastic products) similar to a sandwich panel,
except no facer or a thin aluminum foil facer is used. Sheathing panels are applied to the inside building
walls and/or ceiling.
Solid: Sheet material that does not have a cellular structure.
Thermal barrier: A board stock material or coating material applied over a combustible foam insulation that
is designed to delay ignition of the insulation for 10 to 15 minutes in a sprinklered application.
Thermoplastic: Materials that soften when heated and harden when cooled. This process is reversible
provided the material is not heated sufficiently to decompose. Examples are PVC, EPS, polycarbonate, PET,
PMMA, polypropylene, and polyethylene.
Thermoset: Materials that cure or ‘‘set’’ irreversibly when heated during manufacture. Examples are
polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, FRP, phenolic foam, melamine, and UP.
Unbacked: Any solid plastic panel that is not attached to any substrate and can freely vent in a fire.
UP: Unsaturated polyester. Most common resin in FRPs. Unsaturated polyesters show good weathering
resistance and light stability.

APPENDIX B DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY

January 2018. This document has been completely revised. The following significant changes were made:
A. Clarified recommendations to emphasize the use of FM Approved plastic construction materials.
B. Simplified recommendations for intermediate wall sprinklers.
July 2015. Interim revision. Clarification was provided for the securement of metal faced plastic sandwich
panels.
April 2014. Clarification was provided for protection of spray-on ployurethane insulation covered with an FM
Approved fire-retardant coating.
February 2013. Revised protection guidance for both backed FRP panels and backed PVC panels as a result
of research and testing. In addition, PVC panels are now permitted to be installed on ceilings under certain
conditions. Other clarification points for various recommendations were added.
April 2012. Terminology related to ignitable liquids has been revised to provide increased clarity and
consistency with regard to FM Global’s loss prevention recommendations for ignitable liquid hazards.
May 2010. Replaced all references to Data Sheet 2-8N, Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA), with
references to Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers.
January 2009. Extensive revisions were made to differentiate between various plastic construction materials,
and revised recommendations were developed for the protection of FRP Faced/foam Plastic Core insulation
panels. Recommendations were added on protection of elastomeric insulation.
November 2008. Extensive revisions were made to differentiate better between various plastic construction
materials, and revised guidance was developed for the protection of FRP faced/foam plastic core insulation
panels. Guidance was added on protection of elastomeric insulation.
May 2008. Minor editorial changes were made.
September 2007. Minor editorial changes were made.
May 2007. This document was revised to clarify guidance on PVC panels and include minor editorial changes.
May 2005. This document received various editorial corrections and was reorganized for easier usability.
Zonolite 3306 fire retardant coating is now FM Approved. Partial solutions for EPS panels using baffles and
the acceptability of perimeter ceiling sprinklers under certain conditions have also been highlighted.
Section 3.0, Support for Recommendations, was expanded to include additional detail on the hazards
associated with plastics in construction.
May 2004. Clarification was made to recommendation 2.3.1(a).

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September 2003. The guidelines for dry perimeter ceiling sprinklers to protect EPS wall and ceiling panels
were added.

APPENDIX C PROPERTIES OF PLASTIC MATERIALS AND FIRE TESTS

C.1 FM Global Corner Tests

For descriptions and discussion of the 25 ft (7.6 m) and 50 ft (15.2 m) high corner test and smaller-scale
fire tests, refer to Data Sheet 1-4, Fire Tests, and FM Approval Standard 4880.
The characteristic of rapid flame spread across the exposed surface of PU, even with automatic sprinkler
protection, prompted the development of the 25 ft (7.6 m) FM Global Corner Test. The test has been adopted
to determine the performance of various plastic materials in combination with various surface treatments.
The test procedure is designed to simulate the exposure that would be expected in an essentially
noncombustible occupancy (i.e., an isolated stack of pallets). The procedure also has been used with various
combustible occupancies as the ignition source to determine if combustible building panels will require
greater sprinkler protection than the occupancy itself.
The FM Global Corner Test is intended as a test method to evaluate fire propagation only. No limits are
placed on the amount of smoke produced. Plastic building materials, FM Approved and not FM Approved,
may produce large amounts of smoke when burned. PVC materials produce corrosive fumes when burned.
The maximum FM Approved height granted via this test method is 30 ft (9.1 m) as a 5 ft (1.5 m) extension
is added using judgment.
The 50 ft (15.2 m) high corner test is used to further evaluate materials for FM Approval at heights greater
than the 30 ft (9.1 m) maximum height which can be granted via the 25 ft (7.5 m) test.
The test array consists of a simulated building corner, each wall being 20 ft (6.1 m) long by 50 ft (15.2 m)
high. All other aspects of the test are the same as the 25 ft (7.6 m) test.
During the test, if ignition does not occur on the ceiling, FM Approval can be granted for unlimited height. If
ignition occurs on the ceiling, but fire does not propagate to the ends of the corner, FM Approval can be
granted to a maximum 50 ft (15.2 m) height. Refer to FM Approval Standard 4880 for additional details.

C.2 Flammability Characterization Test

In the case of inert-faced, thermoset core panels, the flammability characterization test can be substituted
for the 25 ft (7.6 m) corner test. This sophisticated small-scale test measures the following properties of the
foam core: chemical heat of combustion, convective heat of combustion, effective heat of gasification, critical
heat flux for ignition, chemical heat release rate, thermal response parameter and convective flame spread
parameter.
From the evaluation of these properties, combined with an inert face, performance in the 25 ft (7.6 m) corner
test can be accurately predicted. Refer to FM Approval Standard 4880 for additional details.

C.3 Polyurethane
PU can be supplied as prefabricated boards or can be sprayed-in-place; the end products are chemically
the same. PU is produced by an exothermic reaction of an isocyanurate and a polyol resin. Increasing the
ratio of isocyanurate to polyol resin and adding various catalysts produces PIR foam, containing varying
amounts of PU. The properties of spray-applied PU can be affected by the application method and conditions
at the time of application. Density can vary from 1.7 to 4 pcf (27.2 to 64 kg/m3).

C.4 Expanded and Extruded Polystyrene (EPS)

EPS is commonly used for building insulation and ceiling panels. It is supplied as board stock at densities
of 0.8 to 3.0 pcf (12.8 to 48.0 kg/m3). Expanded polystyrene is formed from beads that are molded to the
desired shape. Expanded products generally have a density less than 1.5 pcf (24 kg/m3). Extruded
polystyrene is formed by a foaming process. The density is usually greater than 1.5 pcf (24 kg/m3).
EPS sheathing boards often are used to insulate freezers and cold storage rooms. They usually are installed
in one or more layers on walls, floors, and ceiling (or roofs).

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FM Approved EPS ceiling panels are used as suspended ceilings below automatic sprinklers. In the presence
of fire, the panels will quickly shrink and drop out of place. This allows for unobstructed distribution of sprinkler
discharge. They are limited to 1 in. (30 mm) in thickness and their use is limited to Hazard Category 1 (HC-1)
occupancy as defined in Data Sheet 3-26, Fire Protection Water Demand for Nonstorage Sprinklered
Properties.

C.5 Rigid Plastic Panels

Rigid plastic panels have been FM Approved for two end uses: interior finish materials and plastic building
panels. Plastic building panels are popular in the papermaking and chemical process industries. Interior finish
panels typically are used in the food processing industry. FM Approved interior finish materials consist of
flat sheets that are installed over a noncombustible backing; currently they are not FM Approved for use over
combustible backings. Plastic building panels usually are corrugated and typically are fastened directly to
the exterior of the building framing. These panels may be reinforced (FRP) or unreinforced (PVC based). They
are not intended nor FM Approved for use against a backing.

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