Fireproofing Applicators
Fireproofing slows the spread of fire and helps keep steel from losing strength in a fire. Applicators spray, trowel or install materials on beams, columns, decks and walls. The work is dusty, wet and messy, and it often happens from lifts and scaffolds, so respiratory, eye, fall and equipment hazards all matter.
- Construction
- Finishing
- Steel
Types of fireproofing
| Type | What it is | Main hazards |
|---|---|---|
| Sprayed fire-resistive material (SFRM) | Cementitious or gypsum-based material sprayed onto structural steel and decks | Dust, eye and skin irritation, overspray, slippery floors |
| Intumescent coatings | Paint-like coatings that swell in a fire. Water-based, solvent-based or epoxy | Solvent vapors, isocyanates or epoxy hardeners, skin sensitization, spray equipment |
| Board and wrap systems | Gypsum or cement boards, or blankets fastened around steel | Dust from cutting, sharp edges, fasteners, lifting |
| Concrete encasement | Steel enclosed in concrete | See Concrete Work |
Dust, fibers and chemicals
- Mixing and spraying SFRM makes dust and airborne particles that irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. Some materials contain cement, gypsum and mineral fibers, and cutting or sanding cured material can produce silica. See Silica and Fiberglass & Mineral Wool.
- Older buildings may have asbestos fireproofing. Don’t cut, scrape or disturb old fireproofing until it has been tested. See Asbestos, Abatement Workers and Interior Demolition.
- Intumescent coatings may contain solvents, epoxy resins or isocyanates. Read the SDS, ventilate, and wear the right respirator and gloves. See Isocyanates, Solvents and Safety Data Sheets.
- Wet fireproofing and cement-based mixes are alkaline and can burn skin and eyes. Wash immediately.
PPE
- Respirator: use the type your hazard assessment and the SDS call for, whether a particulate respirator, a half-face with the right cartridges or a supplied-air system. Be fit-tested and medically evaluated. See Respiratory Protection.
- Eyes: goggles or a face shield. Dust and wet spray in the eyes cause burns. See Eye & Face Protection.
- Skin: disposable coveralls, gloves and waterproof boots, with cuffs sealed, and a hood or hat. Wash hands before eating.
- Hearing: pumps and compressors are loud. See Hearing Protection.
- Head and fall protection as required by the site. See Hard Hats.
Spray equipment
- Fireproofing pumps push material through long hoses at high pressure. Inspect hoses, couplings and guns before use, and don’t exceed pressure ratings.
- Never point the gun at a person, and never put a hand or finger in front of the nozzle. High-pressure spray can inject material under the skin, which is a medical emergency. See Airless Paint Sprayers.
- Release pressure and shut off the pump before clearing a clog or changing a tip. Follow lockout for the pump. See Lockout/Tagout.
- Use GFCI protection and keep cords out of water. See GFCI.
- Static from spray can ignite solvent vapors, so ground equipment for solvent-based products. See Static, Bonding & Grounding.
Working at height
- Applicators often work from scissor lifts, boom lifts and scaffolds around steel framing. Follow lift rules, use fall protection and never overreach. See Scissor Lifts, Aerial Lifts and Scaffold Basics.
- Hoses and cords create trip hazards on platforms. Route them safely and keep them off walkways.
- Overspray and dropped material make surfaces slippery. Clean as you go. See Slips, Trips & Falls.
- Protect people below from falling material with barricades and tarps.
Surface prep and conditions
- Steel must be clean and free of oil, loose rust and dirt so the material sticks. Prep work such as wire brushing or blasting makes dust and noise. See Abrasive Blasting.
- Control temperature and humidity as the maker requires, and ventilate enclosed areas. In winter, heaters can add fire and CO hazards. See Temporary Heaters.
- Keep other trades out of the area while spraying, and cover floors and finished surfaces.
- Don’t do hot work near fresh intumescent coatings or solvent vapors. See Hot Work Permits.
Quality control and cleanup
- Inspectors check thickness and density with gauges, and check bond strength using test methods. Keep access safe for inspectors and don’t patch areas without approval.
- Repair gaps and damage after other trades. Document areas and thicknesses.
- Collect and dispose of waste, empty bags and washout water according to the SDS and local rules. See Stormwater & SWPPP.
- Clean up dust with HEPA vacuums or wet methods, not dry sweeping or compressed air.
Before you spray
- Old fireproofing tested before any disturbance
- SDS read; respirator, eye, skin and hearing protection fitted
- Hoses, pump and gun inspected; GFCI and grounding in place
- Lift or scaffold set up with fall protection; area below barricaded
- Ventilation, temperature and humidity within the maker’s limits
- Dust control and cleanup supplies ready
Standards & references
Last updated: