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FM (Factory Mutual)

FM Approvals is a globally recognised certification and testing body associated with FM Global, one of the leading international property risk insurers. FM Approved standards focus on loss prevention and asset protection, ensuring that building systems reduce the likelihood and consequence of fire, smoke spread, and structural damage.
An FM Approved Passive Fire Protection Inspector (DRI) is trained to evaluate passive fire systems in accordance with FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets. These standards provide guidance for selecting and verifying systems that support fire resilience and continuity of operations.

Why FM Approval is Relevant to Passive Fire Protection

FM standards emphasise:
  • System reliability in real fire conditions
  • Risk-based evaluation, not just code minimum compliance
  • The use of tested and certified materials and assemblies
  • Protection of assets and operational continuity, not only life safety
This perspective is particularly valuable for:
  • High-value assets
  • Critical infrastructure
  • Industrial facilities
  • Hospitals and aviation facilities
  • Commercial buildings with high continuity requirements
FM Approved inspection helps ensure that passive fire protection supports both code compliance and risk management objectives.

Competency of an FM Approved Passive Fire Inspector

An FM Approved inspector has demonstrated capability in:
  • Understanding FM Global passive fire protection requirements and data sheets
  • Reviewing passive system selection against FM Approved product listings
  • Verifying installation quality and workmanship
  • Assessing the suitability of passive fire systems for performance and durability
  • Identifying system substitutions that may compromise reliability
  • Documenting compliance in a format recognised by risk assessors and insurers
This supports more resilient fire protection outcomes for buildings with elevated property protection expectations.

Integration with ISO 17020 Third Party Inspection

At Vortex Fire, FM Approved inspector expertise is integrated into our ISO 17020 accredited third party inspection framework, ensuring that:
  • Findings are independent and unbiased
  • Inspections follow documented and repeatable methodologies
  • System performance is validated against tested approvals and FM standards
  • Reports support both Civil Defence approval and insurance compliance requirements
This provides a higher level of assurance than standard contractor-led or manufacturer-led inspections.

Examples of Passive Systems Evaluated Under FM Standards

UL-aligned inspection and verification provides:
  • Compartmentation and fire barriers
  • Firestopping of service through and membrane penetrations and fire resistive joints
  • Structural fire protection and enclosure systems
  • Fire and smoke containment interfaces with MEP systems
  • Fire doors and access-controlled openings
  • Fireproofing of steel and load-bearing components
The focus is on long-term performance, not just initial installation.

Outcome for Building Owners and Operators

FM Approved inspection supports:
  • Reduced risk of fire spread and structural failure
  • Improved resilience of critical assets and operations
  • Stronger insurance alignment and underwriting confidence
  • Lower lifetime cost due to fewer retrofit and remediation issues
  • Clear documentation supporting commissioning and handover