York, Pa.-based Architectural Testing Inc. has expanded its IAS accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 to include fire performance testing test methods for building-related products, ASTM E84-10b, “Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials” (and by extension the similar test method, UL723), and ASTM E108, “Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings” (and the virtually identical UL790).

ASTM E84-10b evaluates surface flame spread and smoke density of materials. E84 is applicable to wide range of products for which a flame spread index and smoke developed index is required, such as siding, ceiling tiles, exterior sheathing and siding, interior wall gypsum board or paneling, flooring, fabric for furniture and office partitions, pressure-treated lumber for wood decks and many others.

“For years, ATI has been involved in small-scale fire testing such as per ASTM D635 plus ASTM D1929 and ASTM D2843 for plastics; now we are beginning to handle larger scale samples and systems, too,” said Miguel Zamarripa, ATI Fire Testing Program Manager. “This latest round of accreditations is part of a major new expansion program at ATI to develop a broad range of fire testing capabilities and offer a faster-turnaround alternative to manufacturers of all types of building and furnishing products. It is just the beginning of the fire test offerings that will be available with ATI. These new capabilities provide an option for manufacturers interested in receiving superior customer service and results as part of their fire testing experience.”

The expanded IAS accreditation also includes ASTM E108 testing and evaluation. ASTM E108 is the method by which Class A, Class B or Class C fire performance ratings are assigned to roofing materials based on exterior surface flame spread, smoke density and the ability of the roof covering material or system to resist fire penetration to the underside of a roof deck and the development of burning brands when subjected to wind. ATI also performs tests and evaluations for all roofing-associated products, materials and systems, including skylights, tubular daylighting devices and solar panels.

For more information, visitwww.archtest.com/testing/fire.aspx.