APA System Report 405: Fire Protection of Floors Constructed with Prefabricated Wood I-Joists for Compliance with the International Residential Code

Beginning in 2009, the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) require one- and two-family dwellings to install an automatic fire sprinkler system. However, not all local jurisdictions in the U.S. have adopted these provisions. The 2012, 2015, 2018, 2021 and 2024 IRC include fire protective membrane provisions related to fire protection of floors.

This publication is designed for: engineers, architects, builders, building code officials

This system report provides prescriptive fire assemblies for fire protection of floors constructed with prefabricated wood I-joists when the 2015, 2018, 2021 and 2024 IRC Section R302.13 requirements are adopted by the local jurisdiction.

Key sections include:

• System description and exception

• Methodology

• Limitations

• Diagrams of fire-protective floor assemblies

  • Assemblies include those made with gypsum board, mineral wool and field-applied FireLam laminate

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.