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FIRE PERFORMANCE

The fire performance data for plywood given in this section are from the National Building Code of Canada 1995. Fire resistance data (Douglas Fir plywood) are shown in Table A and flame-spread ratings and smoke developed classifications are given in Table B.

Table A Time Assigned to CANPLY Douglas Fir Plywood Used as Wallboard Membranes
Plywood Thickness (mm)	Time (min.)
8, 9.5	5**
11, 12.5	10
14, 15.5	15
17, 18.5 and 19	20**

*Time shown is based on the ability of plywood to stay in place on the exposed side of the test assembly during fire tests. See NBC for more details.

**This rating is extrapolated and should not be assumed in design or implemented in construction without the prior approval of the regulatory agency or authority having appropriate jurisdiction.

Table B
Assigned Flame-Spread Ratings / Smoke Developed Classifications

		Flame-Spread/Smoke Developed**
Materials	Minimum Thickness (mm)	Unfinished	Paint or Varnish not more than 1.3 mm thick; Cellulose Wallpaper not more than one layer
Douglas Fir Plywood made to CSA O121	11 6	150/100 150/100	150/300 150/100
Canadian Softwood Plywood made to CSA O151	11	150/100	150/300

* These data are based on all presently available evidence. Interpolation and extrapolation for other plywood thicknesses should not be done without prior approval from the appropriate regulatory agency or authority.

** These data are for plywoods without cellulose-resin overlays.