What is UL790?

In the construction industry, fire safety is of utmost importance, and various measures are taken to ensure that buildings meet the necessary safety standards. One such important standard is UL790. Let's explore what UL790 is and why it matters.

The Basics of UL790

UL790 is a testing standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a globally recognized independent safety science company. This standard evaluates the fire performance of roof coverings, specifically their resistance to external flame spread and the ability to withstand the effects of fire exposure.

When a roof covering material is tested according to the UL790 standard, it is subjected to a series of controlled fire exposure conditions. These conditions simulate real-life scenarios where a building may be exposed to external fires. The material's reaction to flame, heat release, and burning behavior are carefully observed and measured during these tests.

Key Requirements and Ratings

UL790 defines specific requirements and ratings for different classes of roof-covering materials based on their fire resistance capabilities. The most common rating classifications include:

Class A: Materials that provide the highest level of fire protection. They have the greatest resistance to flame spread and do not allow burning brands to ignite the roof.

Class B: Materials that offer intermediate performance and moderate resistance to flame spread.

Class C: Materials with lower resistance to flame spread compared to Class A and B. They provide the least fire protection among the three classes.

It's important to note that achieving a higher class rating requires materials to satisfy stricter criteria in terms of flame spread and persistence of burning. Building codes often require specific UL790 class ratings, depending on factors such as the building's size, occupancy type, and location.

The Significance of UL790

The UL790 standard plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of buildings and their occupants. By testing and rating roof coverings for their fire-resistant properties, it helps architects, engineers, and builders make informed decisions about the materials used in construction projects. It also provides consumers with valuable information regarding a product's ability to withstand fire hazards.

Compliance with UL790 can contribute to insurance premium reductions and code compliance certifications. Additionally, choosing roof coverings that meet higher UL790 class ratings can enhance the overall fire protection capability of a building, potentially saving lives during fire incidents and minimizing property damage.

In conclusion, UL790 is an important testing standard that evaluates the fire performance of roof coverings. It defines requirements and ratings, indicating a material's ability to resist flame spread and withstand fire exposure. By adhering to this standard, the construction industry can ensure safer buildings that are better equipped to handle fire emergencies.