It can be tough to decide on the right firestop contractor to hire. The process of selecting a company can be tedious and difficult, and knowing which company will do the best job isn’t easy. There are all sorts of contractors who claim they’re the best in the business, but for the sake of your facility, it will be important to choose a company that will conduct the job safely and to the code-required standards. To make sure you pick the right firestop contractor, be sure they can say “yes” to the following questions:
Do They Understand Building Code?
To do the job properly, an understanding of building code is crucial, while also keeping the facility safe. Having a firestop contractor who understands building code will ensure that their work will be sufficient by AHJ inspections. Safety is a number one priority for facility managers, so you want to be sure you’re hiring a contractor with your facility’s best interests at heart.
Do They Attend Firestop Meetings?
Some contractors will hold membership with specific organizations that help them to stay on top of building code as well as all new developments and changes in firestop. One of these organizations is known as the Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA). Being a member of an organization like this lets the contractor attend meetings and workshops revolving around firestop. This demonstrates that they are furthering their education on the topic, which in turn helps them identify issues with compliance in your facility and how to fix them.
Do They Use The Right Tools?
Firestopping jobs ask workers to use a lot of different tools and materials. Knowing which tools to use in any given moment is crucial to getting the job done right. Depending on the manufacturer your contractor is using, as well as the type of firestop you need, there are thousands of UL system requirements that need to be used for that job. Your firestop contractor should know the difference between them, and how to get the right products, especially because these systems aren’t interchangeable across manufacturers.
Will They Provide You With Documentation?
A reputable contractor will supply you with detailed documentation after their firestop projects. The files should include a thorough analysis of the job that got done, maps of the facility floor plans that identify where firestopping was required, and pictures showing how the facility looked before and after the job. A firestop contractor who cannot or refuses to supply these documents could face a fine or other consequence at the next Joint Commission survey.
Concrete Visions Will Get The Job Done Right
Concrete Visions has been working with clients for over 25 years. Our G&M Services installers are certified with the industry’s major firestop product manufacturers. As part of our firestop service, we can assess abnormal field conditions and, with the manufacturer’s technical support assistance, provide engineering judgments in a timely fashion to comply with contract specifications.
Our Field Mechanics undergo ongoing training, including mandatory monthly safety meetings, weekly Toolbox Talks where safety and equipment information is shred, and trainings on safe work standards and safety best practices.
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