Which statement correctly describes FM Global fire ratings relative to IBC?

• A. FM fire ratings apply to entire assemblies and must match tested configurations.
• B. FM fire ratings apply to individual components only.
• C. FM fire ratings are not tied to tested configurations.
• D. FM ratings and IBC have identical scope.

Answer: (C)

FM Approvals ratings come from testing a specific, exact assembly and then listing that exact configuration as rated. The performance in that fire test—how long the wall, roof, or other element resists fire—belongs to that particular arrangement of materials, joints, and installation details. If any part of the tested configuration is changed (different board, sealant, fasteners, or joint detail), the rating does not automatically apply to the new setup and may require new testing or an engineering evaluation to confirm the same performance. Because of this, the rating is for the whole assembly as tested, not for individual components in isolation or for configurations that weren’t part of the test. While IBC fire-resistance ratings come from standardized tests and have their own code-based framework, FM Approvals operate under a separate evaluation system with a scope that emphasizes the specific tested assembly and configuration.