Fire Ratings

Building codes specify requirements for fire-rated separations between certain uses.  Once you have identified a scheme for locating such separations, always keep in mind that EVERYTHING fire-rated in most U.S. jurisdictions should be a U.L. (Underwriters Laboratories) standardized assembly.  UL performs standardized tests on construction 'assemblies'.  Upon completing successful testing, U.L. approves the assembly and lists a description, sketches and common manufacturers in their catalogs.  Most architecture firms use standardized wall types that conform to U.L. approved assemblies.  If you are designing any condition that must maintain a fire-rating, always find a U.L. assembly description for which your design complies.  Innovative solutions are magnificent in most aspects of architecture, but when it comes to fire protection, stick with properly tested assemblies!  Fire ratings are incredibly important to consider with care to design safe buildings.  You can review the U.L. listed assemblies here