NFPA 285 Fire Testing for Exterior Walls: Requirements and Design Challenges

Brian D. Kuhn, Jr., P.E., Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. (SGH)

Mr. Kuhn is with the fire safety engineering group at SGH. He works with architects, structural engineers, and building scientists on a variety of fire and life safety building performance issues.

Mr. Kuhn will present on the NFPA 285 fire testing requirements for combustible exterior wall materials as found in the International Building Code. There is currently a lack of consistent interpretation, enforcement, and understanding of such requirements among both designers and code enforcement bodies. This presentation will summarize the NFPA 285 testing process, the theory of building enclosure design, and the challenges of incorporating NFPA 285-tested assemblies into typical building enclosure design. This presentation is registered with the AIA/CES for continuing professional education.

4:00pm - 5:30pm Board of Directors Meeting (Members Welcome!)
5:30pm - 6:30pm Registration & Cocktails (Attitude Adjustment)
6:30pm - 8:30pm Dinner & Program

The early registration period ends Wednesday, October 31st. All early registrations will receive a $5 discount. AHJs and students eligible for special event pricing must be received during the early registration period.