IAFCI Position Statement Dated 01/24/08

RE: Mixing of Listed Components on Listed Systems

Position:

It is the position of the IAFCI Board of Directors that the installation of any listed component(s) (known as an outside product) not physically tested for use on another listed system is considered a potential fire hazard and may result in a structure fire, personal injury or property damage. This action is considered detrimental to the hearth industry and the clients that it represents. This position is based on the lack of combined testing of the listed components as a single system. This action voids the approval and warrantee of the two separate listed systems.

Commentary:

The intent of the listing process is to determine the minimum installation requirements so as to provide a safe performance of a system or individual product. If a listed component was not specifically tested in combination with another listed system, it should not be applied. The application of outside listed components will void both listings if not tested together. Listed systems should always be installed as per the manufacturer's specifications and with those parts applied during the test procedure. The results of the listing tests are indicators of proper application for a safe operation. Varying from these minimum requirements may result in injury or damage. The adopted building codes or Authority Having Jurisdiction may increase the minimum requirements determined by the manufacturer but must not reduce the minimum requirements set forth by the test results.

That is not to say that testing of outside products on a specific listed system is not an acceptable application. However, the outside product listing must include specific applications with individual systems or components. No generalization should be allowed.

All listing result must be strictly adhered to. The Authority Having Jurisdiction and the Product Manufacturer do not have authority to reduce these results without voiding the listing of the product(s). Any reduction in the minimum installation requirements is considered a potential fire and/or health hazard. Any modification or alteration to the listed system may result in increased temperatures or void the listing of the product. This action must be disallowed and all modified or altered components must be replaced for safety.

With this knowledge and fire investigations to support this opinion, the IAFCI Board has taken a position against this application to prevent fire, personal injury and property damage.

Respectfully,
The IAFCI Board of Directors
http://www.membersIAFCI.org/

Last Revised 01/24/08

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