In the coming weeks we will be editing the website to add additional information, links, features and notices.
Among the additional information and features scheduled to be added are:
Page on hollow metal framing
Page on Louvers, architectural grilles and select damper information
Marine applications page
Information on Code requirements relating to Fire Rated Glazing
Comparison guide on popular fire rated glazing products
Select details on specialty fire rated glazing systems
Links to manufacturer websites and other useful reference sources
Posting of past newsletter
and more
The 2007 Florida Building Code is now to take effect on March 1st, 2009, based on an update from the Florida Building Commission in mid-September. There are a number of changes affecting various requirements including glazing standards and maintenance of installed "active" systems.
On the glazing side, the "prescriptive" allowance of wire glass for fire rated application is eliminated for all group occupancies, so conventional wire glass is no longer permitted. All fire rated glazing must be tested, listed and labeled, with all glazing also required to meet CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201 safety glazing requirements when used in hazardous locations, as defined by the Code and federal standards.
The update of the Code also incorporates the updated NFPA standard which clarifies and codifies that all "active" systems and fire rated hardware be maintained and inspected on an annual basis. This would cover the annual inspection and testing of fire shutters, door closer, exit devices and locking hardware, among other items, with this inspection being performed by a duly licensed and certified firm.
Note that "passive" systems such as fire rated glazing systems have no such requirement as they do not require hardware or activation components to achieve the protection level in case of fire.
The clarified and updated annual inspection requirement will increase operational annual costs for such rated products and systems, which will make the use of "passive" systems more cost effective for the operational life of the project.
New binders with updated product technical sheets and other data are now available from Vetrotech Saint-Gobain (VSG), with the new option of having the same information on a USB memory stick available in limited supply as of late September. Contact us on this option for additional information.
With updates on product sizing, testing, and new specialty frame options, make sure that you secure the latest information.
If you have received a binder from our firm or VSG directly it has been registered and updated information in the form of product and catalog inserts will be mailed to you in the next few weeks.
If you have any questions please contact our office, as we want you to have the most current information within reach.
In addition a product chart illustrating the various VSG products is now available from our firm. This chart is organized by required rating and illustrates your Code compliant choices with additional information for each possible selection. If you are interested in obtaining a copy please contact us.
To address the need for designers, glazing contractors and other interested parties to understand the effects of the 2007 Florida Building Code on the fire rated glazing segment of the typical project, our firm in conjunction with Vetrotech Saint-Gobain is offering a seminar on this subject. The particulars are:
One hour session held at your location
Can be scheduled as a breakfast, lunch or late afternoon session (appropriate refreshments are provided at no cost)
Session accredited by Florida Board of Architecture as meeting continuing education requirements for architects; credit may be recognized by other Boards for licensed professions in construction and design
Handouts supplied
Generic approach with product specific information covering most popular industry solutions
Practical suggestions to meet a variety of applications
The requirements are:
Appropriate size meeting room with A/C, seating, tables, lighting, power and screen for presentation
Room to be available 30 minutes prior to and after scheduled seminar time slot
Meeting minimum group size
Scheduled in advance
We are currently scheduling sessions for November 2008 through February 2009, so contact us for available dates.
With the new stock sheet size available in our Keralite FR-R and Keralite FR-F ceramic product segment, we can now service over 95% of the typical requests received from our customers. This product segment typically accounts for over 60% of the inquiries received, and we can quickly give you pricing on those needs, with delivery typically within 2 1/2 - 3 weeks.
Customers have asked us how they can expedite those smaller requirements for these products, and we suggest that you contact our Florida approved fabricator, RF Supply, located in Bradenton, at 866-874-4527 and speak with one of their customer service representatives. On smaller projects with a few pieces, such as the door lights for stairwell rated door conditions, they can be very competitive, while providing delivery on their trucks in their service area within 3 to 5 working days. Shipments to firms outside their service area is also available, while typically adding 1 day for delivery.
RF Supply also offers other products and services for commercial glazing firms, so keep this information handy for those "fast" needs!
