FAQs

Is Hart & Cooley B-Vent Fire Rated?
No, Hart & Cooley's Type B gas vent does not have a fire rating. Neither do any of our
competitors. The standard for developing fire ratings is ASTM E84. The test method provides a
consistent, repeatable test method to report flame spread and smoke development for building
materials in response to heat and flame. Results may be used as elements of a fire risk
assessment. Underwriter's Laboratories specify the materials that we use for building our B-vent
in their Standard 441 for gas vents. These materials have no ability to ignite or to support or
sustain combustion. There is no contribution to the fuel supply. Since there is nothing that can
bum, the flame spread rating is "0". Since there is no flame, the smoke density development
rating is "0". Hart & Cooley requires the use of our RSA support in the ceiling above a
connected appliance. This support is also a fire stop at that location. UL specifies this to be so.
We have been selling this UL listed system and having it installed through partitions in buildings
that require fire rated assemblies since 1959 without a problem. UL condones this application.
UL has not encouraged us to test with fire rated assemblies since the test would show
consumption and degradation of building materials surrounding the B-vent while leaving the
metal vent components in place.
Do you have Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS) for your products?
No, because Hart & Cooley products meet the definition of an "article", they are not subject to
the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. Therefore, Material Safety Data Sheets are not
required. Under Section 1910.1200 (b)(5) of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard an
article is defined as any manufactured item:
(1) which is formed to a specific shape or design during manufacture,
(2) which has end-use functions dependent in whole or in part upon its shape or design during
end-use, and
(3) which does not release, or otherwise result in exposure to, a hazardous chemical under
normal conditions of use.
Can I paint my B-vent?
Yes, you can paint exposed b-vent to match the color of the siding or roof shingles. Follow these
simple guidelines:
Scuff and clean the surface to be painted with steel wool. Clean dust, oils and fingerprints off
the surface using a household degreaser cleaner.
Locate a reputable paint manufacturer/supplier (Rustoleum, Sherwin Williams) to review their
recommendations for painting galvanized steel that could get to possibly 250 degrees F at the
extreme.
I have another Question
Visit our Tech Corner for additional resources that cover a variety of topics or
Contact our Product Application Engineer, Keith Page at 616-656-8315 or e-mail at:
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