When is visual inspection of TFIFRM allowed?

Visual inspection of Thermal Fireproofing Insulation and Fire-Resistive Materials (TFIFRM) is essential to ensure that the materials meet the required standards for performance and safety. This type of inspection is crucial after the materials have dried or cured, as this is when the effectiveness of the fireproofing can be accurately assessed.

Once the TFIFRM has cured, inspectors can evaluate the surface for consistency, coverage, and any potential defects such as cracks, peeling, or insufficient thickness. These attributes are critical to ensuring that the material will perform effectively during a fire event. Timely inspections post-curing can identify any issues that may compromise structural integrity before the building is subject to actual fire conditions.

Inspectors evaluating the fireproofing after it has been applied but before it is fully cured may not get an accurate representation of the material's performance or appearance, as some finishes or characteristics may not be fully developed. Therefore, focusing on the condition after the material has dried or cured is fundamentally necessary for verifying the integrity and compliance of the fireproofing.