ETC Laboratories 40 Ajax Road, Rochester, New York 14624. Telephone 716-328-7668. Fax 716-328-7777
TECHNICAL INTERPRETATION 94-100
"Reliability of Frame Seals to Inhibit Smoke and Gas Penetration"
The air tightness of interior commercial doors for resistance to smoke and noxious gas infiltration can be measured by using an air infiltration
test. UL 1784 test procedure and a Nationally Recognized Authority, NFPA, and their test criteria NFPA 105, can be used as the basis for a
pass / fail.
Independent test data indicates that any loss of contact on the seal perimeter with the door creates a "tunnel effect" for air/smoke to pass. Air
pressure and temperature differentials, sealing tolerances, and gaps at the door bottom are all related factors that can increase the amount of
air leakage. Even at ambient air temperatures, a break in the seal can cause unwanted effects of air, light and noise transmission. These
conditions may cause unacceptable occupant comfort levels and severely reduce life safety sealing conditions of the opening.
As a practical field observation, if any light penetrates the frame perimeter (excluding the door bottom), the sealing assembly should not be
accepted as a Life Safety Product. Installers of door components must assume a degree of responsibility and risk associated with the
performance of openings if they are not certified or, if the opening has not been field tested and proven to perform to the criteria in life safety
codes.
Only sealing systems tested as "Operating Assemblies" shall be specified. The installation shall only be performed by certified installers of an
ANSI approved certification program.
ETC Laboratories is a Nationally Accredited Laboratory for testing building products to air leakage, water penetration and structural
performance.
