ICC Spray-Applied Fireproofing Special Inspector Certification
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ICC Spray-Applied Fireproofing Special Inspector Certification Exam
250 Practice Questions with Detailed Rationales
EXAM OVERVIEW – 10 Key Points
1. Governing Body: The ICC Spray-Applied Fireproofing Special Inspector Certification is
administered by the International Code Council (ICC), validating expertise in verifying
proper application of Spray-Applied Fire-Resistive Materials (SFRM) and Intumescent
Fire-Resistive Materials (IFRM) .
2. Primary Code Reference: IBC Chapter 17 (Special Inspections) is the primary governing
document, mandating continuous special inspection during SFRM application and
requiring the Special Inspection Agency to be independent with competent personnel
and proper equipment .
3. Exam Structure: The Spray-Applied Fireproofing exam (Exam ID 86) consists of 40
multiple-choice questions divided into two modules: General Requirements (25
questions, 1 hour) and Codes & Plans (30 questions, 1.5 hours). Total time limit is 1.5
hours .
4. Passing Score: A scaled passing score of 75 is required to pass the certification exam.
The exam is OPEN BOOK .
5. Exam Fee: The exam fee is $210+ through ICC's Pearson VUE/PRONTO testing platform .
6. Core Responsibilities: The special inspector verifies substrate preparation (clean, dry,
free of oil, grease, and loose mill scale), application thickness/density, bond strength,
and adherence to manufacturer specifications and standards like ASTM E605, ASTM
E736, and ASTM E119 .
7. ASTM Standards: Key standards include ASTM E605 (thickness and density), ASTM E736
(cohesion/adhesion or bond strength), ASTM E119 (fire testing), and ASTM E84 (surface
burning characteristics) .
8. IBC Chapter 7 vs Chapter 17: IBC Chapter 7 establishes fire-resistance requirements for
building materials and assemblies, while IBC Chapter 17 governs the special inspection
program, including qualifications, testing frequencies, and documentation
requirements .
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9. Reporting Requirements: Daily inspection reports must be submitted to the building
official within 3 business days. The final summary report must state whether work
requiring special inspection conformed to approved plans and code provisions .
10. Continuous Inspection: IBC Section 1705.14 mandates continuous special inspection
while SFRM is being applied to ensure real-time compliance with thickness, density, and
bond strength requirements .
SECTION 1: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS AND INSPECTION BASICS
1. What is the primary role of the special inspector according to IBC Chapter 17?
A. To design fireproofing systems
B. To oversee the quality and compliance of fireproofing installation
C. To approve construction drawings
D. To manage project budgets
Correct Answer: B. To oversee the quality and compliance of fireproofing installation
Rationale: The special inspector is responsible for verifying that fireproofing work complies with
codes, standards, and project specifications, ensuring quality and safety . The special inspector
does not design systems, approve drawings, or manage budgets.
2. Which document provides the primary basis for understanding fire-resistance rating
requirements for structural members?
A. ASTM E119
B. NFPA 101
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C. IBC (International Building Code)
D. UL 263
Correct Answer: C. IBC (International Building Code)
Rationale: The IBC specifies the fire-resistance ratings for structural members and is the primary
code document setting requirements for fire-resistive construction in buildings . The IBC
establishes the minimum fire-resistance requirements based on building occupancy
classification.
3. Which document governs the overall requirements for special inspections, including spray-
applied fireproofing, in the ICC examination?
A. NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code)
B. IBC Chapter 17 (Special Inspections)
C. OSHA 1926 Subpart F
D. ASCE 7 (Minimum Design Loads)
Correct Answer: B. IBC Chapter 17 (Special Inspections)
Rationale: IBC Chapter 17 outlines the entire special inspection program, including qualifications
of inspectors, testing frequencies, and documentation requirements for fire-resistive materials.
This is the primary code reference for the ICC exam .
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4. Under IBC Chapter 17, what type of inspection is required for each new fire-proofed steel
member during application?
A. One-time final inspection only
B. Continuous inspection during application
C. Periodic inspection only after curing
D. No inspection if the contractor holds a valid certification
Correct Answer: B. Continuous inspection during application
Rationale: IBC Section 1705.14 mandates continuous special inspection while SFRM is being
applied to ensure real-time compliance with thickness, density, and bond strength
requirements. Intermittent inspection is not sufficient for fireproofing .
5. According to IBC Chapter 17, the Special Inspection Agency must be:
A. Employed directly by the contractor
B. Independent, with competent personnel and proper equipment
C. Affiliated with the material manufacturer
D. Selected by the building official without input from others
Correct Answer: B. Independent, with competent personnel and proper equipment
Rationale: The IBC states the Special Inspection Agency must be independent, have experience,
competent personnel, and equipment to conduct the inspections. Independence ensures
objective verification of compliance .