NFPA 253-2023 PDF Download

The NFPA 253-2023 standard is designed to ensure the safety of buildings and occupants by providing a method to determine the fire exposure behavior of floor covering systems. This standard is referenced by the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and other relevant codes and standards.

The standard covers various aspects of testing, including calibration of apparatus, mounting methods, application of the test, interpretation of results, and safety precautions. It provides a reliable basis for estimating the critical radiant flux of floor covering systems installed in building corridors or exit ways, which is a critical factor in fire safety.

In the 2023 edition of NFPA 253, there are notable changes that enhance usability and accuracy. These changes include the clarification of terminology to improve understanding and the relocation of radiation instrumentation calibration information from a nonmandatory annex to a mandatory section in Chapter 6, ensuring that this crucial information is readily accessible to users.