WASHINGTON — The International Firestop Council (IFC) developed a comprehensive online firestop inspection training and education program for code officials, inspectors, and all building trades professionals associated with commercial building firestopping from design through installation.
The “IFC Recommended Training and Education for Third-Party Firestop Inspectors” program is a free, 40-60-hour firestopping self-study program that educates via recommended outsourced videos, PowerPoint presentations, and documents, all available via 22 Internet website links from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), International Code Council (ICC), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM), the IFC, and other industry-leading sites.
The IFC created the program in response to what it recognizes as a lack of in-depth programming. The course also addresses a lack of conveniently structured online programs where applicants could learn at a self-study pace on a computer, smartphone, or through public domain material.
The 2012 International Building Code (IBC) requires special inspection of firestopping for buildings over 75 feet high and for Risk Category III and IV facilities in compliance with ASTM E 2174 and E 2393 standards. The IFC program provides third-party inspectors with the high training and competency levels required to conduct such inspections. Passing students will receive a certificate from the IFC and a free listing at www.firestop.org.
Publication date: 8/11/2014
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