CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code

Can the Commission order independent performance tests and use results for enforcement?

The Commission is explicitly authorized by **§ 12-13-1559** to perform or hire independent tests on representative insulation samples sold in California and may use those test results to start enforcement actions; related rules about sampling, testing methods, averages and tolerances are set out elsewhere in the article (notably **§ 12-13-1553** and **§ 12-13-1558**) which should be consulted for procedural details.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The Commission may order or hire others to perform independent performance tests on representative samples of insulation sold in California to check whether the product meets the standards adopted under Chapter 10.5 of the Public Resources Code. Test results may be used as the basis to start enforcement actions. This authority is stated in § 12-13-1559.

The Commission may independently test representative insulation samples sold in California and use those test results to institute enforcement proceedings. § 12-13-1559

Requirements in detail

Who can order and run the tests

  • The Commission itself may conduct the tests.
  • The Commission may also contract with others (third‑party labs or contractors) to conduct the tests. See § 12-13-1559.

What is tested

  • Tests are performed on representative samples of insulation sold in the state to determine compliance with the adopted standards. § 12-13-1559.

What results are used for

  • The results of those independent performance tests "shall form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings." § 12-13-1559.

Testing procedures and tolerances (decision-relevant values)

Decision dimension What it means / value to check Code Reference
Who may conduct tests Commission or its contractors § 12-13-1559
Sample scope Representative samples of insulation sold in California § 12-13-1559
Use of results Tests "shall form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings" § 12-13-1559
Access to premises for sampling Commission may inspect premises with owner consent or a search warrant to obtain samples § 12-13-1558
Number of tests averaged (manufacturer certification) Average based on at least three tests (where applicable) § 12-13-1553 (Items 7)
Tolerance thresholds Average measured thermal performance shall not be more than 5% below labeled value; all insulation sold shall not be more than 10% below labeled value § 12-13-1553 (Items 8)
Test descriptions & calibration Tests follow the published "Test Descriptions for Insulating Material" and equipment must be calibrated to NBS references § 12-13-1553 (Items 9–11)

Procedure basics referenced elsewhere in the article

  • The Commission’s sampling access authority (consent or search warrant) is set out in § 12-13-1558 (inspections) and supports obtaining representative samples for testing.
  • Manufacturer certification, labeling and the role of approved labs are covered by § 12-13-1557 and § 12-13-1553 (testing rules and conditions).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Contracted testing: The Commission may hire others to run the tests; the statute does not limit the Commission to in‑house labs. § 12-13-1559.
  • Sampling access: If a manufacturer or seller refuses entry, the Commission may obtain a search warrant to access premises for sampling; consent is not the sole route. § 12-13-1558.
  • Test method specifics and calibration (representative thickness, conditioning, calibration against National Bureau of Standards) are governed by other sections (not § 12-13-1559 itself) — see § 12-13-1553.

If you need answers about:

  • how samples are chosen, chain of custody, or exact test methods to be used in an enforcement test — those procedural specifics are not described in § 12-13-1559 itself and must be taken from the test‑method and certification sections (e.g., § 12-13-1553, § 12-13-1557) or Commission implementing procedures.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming the Commission needs the owner's permission in all cases — incorrect. The Commission may obtain a search warrant if consent is not given (see § 12-13-1558).
  • Treating Commission tests as informal — they are explicitly permitted to be the legal basis for enforcement actions under § 12-13-1559.
  • Forgetting published tolerances — manufacturer test averages and statewide minimums (5% and 10% tolerance rules) are required elsewhere in the article and matter in enforcement evaluations. § 12-13-1553.
  • Expecting § 12-13-1559 to describe notice, appeals, or lab approval processes — it does not. Those processes appear in adjacent sections (e.g., certification, test descriptions, appeals to the Executive Director), which must be consulted for procedural detail.

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A product is labeled R‑19. The Commission obtains representative samples and orders independent testing under its authority in § 12-13-1559.

Independent lab runs three tests (representative thickness and conditioning per test rules):

  • Test 1 = R‑18.2
  • Test 2 = R‑17.9
  • Test 3 = R‑18.4

Average = (18.2 + 17.9 + 18.4) / 3 = 18.167 R

Percentage below labeled value = (19 − 18.167) / 19 = 0.833 / 19 = 4.38%

How to read this against the Code:

  • Manufacturer certification rules require certain averages and tolerances; the Code states that the averaging requirement (where applicable) uses at least three tests, and the average measured thermal performance shall not be more than 5% below the labeled value — so this sample set meets that 5% certification tolerance. § 12-13-1553.
  • The Code also requires that all insulation sold within the state shall not be more than 10% below the value on the product. At 4.38% below, the product complies with that statewide requirement as well. § 12-13-1553.
  • Because § 12-13-1559 allows Commission-ordered independent tests to "form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings," the Commission could still initiate enforcement if other violations exist (labeling errors, non‑representative sampling concerns, or different tests indicate noncompliance). The single set of tests above, however, would not by themselves support enforcement based on the 5%/10% thermal performance thresholds.

Related provisions (CRSC)

  • Inspections and sampling authority: § 12-13-1558.
  • Quality testing procedures, averaging and tolerances: § 12-13-1553.
  • Product identification and manufacturer certification requirements: § 12-13-1557.
  • Release / confidentiality of submitted information: § 12-13-1562.
  • Liability limitation language (manufacturer misuse of properly labeled insulation): § 12-13-1563.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Referenced Standards Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CRSC § 2602.1 High relevance — show source text

    (c) Any representation of thermal performance which appear on any label, literature, advertising or any other writing intended for the public shall be consistent with the certification testing results and derating required by this article.

    (d) Any insulation with facings and membranes for which the flame spread exceeds 25 when tested with facings and membranes exposed to the flame during the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test must be clearly labeled with a statement that the product may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application. This subsection shall not apply to any product meeting the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a) and (c) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    INSPECTIONS

    Sec. 12-13-1558.

    After September 22, 1981, the Commission may, upon the consent of the owner or lessee, or upon securing a search warrant, have access, during normal working hours, to the premises of manufacturers, distributors and retailers of insulating material sold for installation within the state for the purpose of determining compliance with the standards promulgated pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such access shall be for the purposes of obtaining representative samples of subject insulation and inspecting records and documents pertaining to tests by approved testing labs.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    PERFORMANCE TESTS

    Sec. 12-13-1559.

    The Commission may conduct, or may contract with others to conduct, independent performance tests of representative samples of insulation sold in the state to determine compliance with standards adopted pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such tests shall form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 99

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    COSTS OF INSPECTION AND TESTING (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1560.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    ENFORCEMENT (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1561.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25931, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 6-26-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 26).

    RELEASE OF INFORMATION

  • CRSC § 12-13 High relevance — show source text

    PERFORMANCE TESTS

    Sec. 12-13-1559.

    The Commission may conduct, or may contract with others to conduct, independent performance tests of representative samples of insulation sold in the state to determine compliance with standards adopted pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such tests shall form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 99

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    COSTS OF INSPECTION AND TESTING (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1560.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    ENFORCEMENT (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1561.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25931, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 6-26-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 26).

    RELEASE OF INFORMATION

    Sec. 12-13-1562.

    Persons submitting information to the Commission who wish information to be kept confidential shall comply with the provisions of Sections 2501-2511 of the Public Resources Code.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25223 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    LIABILITY

    Sec. 12-13-1563.

    Nothing in this article shall be construed as imposing responsibility on manufacturers for misuse of properly labeled insulation.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25926 and 25931, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    INSULATING EXISTING BUILDINGS

    Sec. 12-13-1564.

    (a) On or after March 25, 1982, if insulating material is installed in an existing building, in any of the applications specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6, Section 118, the installing contractor shall certify that the amount of insulation installed meets or exceeds the requirements of Part 6, Section 118 for that application. Such certification shall be made on completion of the installation by posting in a conspicuous location a certificate signed under penalty of perjury.

  • CRSC § 8-18 High relevance — show source text

    Elements of acceptable test procedures include:

    1. Date and party—Identification of the date of the test and the party conducting the test.

    2. Signature block—Signature of the designated commissioning lead and the equipment installing contractor attesting that the recorded test results are accurate.

    3. Prerequisites—Any conditions or related equipment checkout or testing that needs to be completed before conducting this test.

    4. Precautions—Identification of the risks involved to the test team members and the equipment and how to mitigate them.

    5. Instrumentation—Listing of the instrumentation and tools necessary to complete the test.

    6. Reference—In each procedure item, identify the source for what is being confirmed (e.g., sequence of operation ID, operating feature, specification requirement, etc.).

    8-18 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    1. Test instructions—Step-by-step instructions of how to complete the test, including functions to test and the conditions under which the tests should performed.

    2. Acceptance criteria—Measurable pass / fail criteria for each step of the test, as applicable.

    3. Results—Expected system response and space to document the actual response, readings, results and adjustments.

    4. Return to normal—Instructions that all systems and equipment are to be returned to their as-found state at the conclusion of the tests.

    5. Deficiencies—A list of deficiencies and how they were mitigated.

    5.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance during onsite enforcement by: a) Receipt of a copy of completed and signed functional performance tests and corrected deficiencies, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner, owner’s representative or commissioning coordinator attesting that the functional performance tests have been completed and any deficiencies corrected.

    Reference: 6.1 Documentation and training

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.5, Documentation and training.

    Section 5.410.2.5.1, Systems manual.

    6.1.1 Intent:

    The Systems Manual documents information focusing on the operation of the building systems. This document provides information needed to understand, operate and maintain the equipment and systems and informs those not involved in the design and construction of the building systems. This document is in addition to the record construction drawings, documents and the Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals supplied by the contractor. The Systems Manual is assembled during the construction phase and available during the contractors’ training of the facility staff.

    6.1.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by providing the Systems Manual. The information in the Systems Manual includes the following:

    1. Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements

    a. Site information

    i. Location of property - address

    ii. Site acreage iii. Local utility information

               Water service provider

           Natural/LPG gas service provider

           Electrical service provider

           Telecommunications service provider

           Other service providers

    b. Facility description i. Use/function

    ii. Square footage

    iii. Occupancy type

    iv. Construction type v. Basis of Design vi. Location of major systems and equipment c. Project history

    i. Project requirements

               Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR)

           Basis of Design (BOD)

    ii. Project undocumented events iii. Record drawings and documents iv. Final control drawings and schematics v. Final control sequences vi. Construction documents - location or delivery information

               Mechanical and electrical drawings

           Specifications
           - Submittals
  • CRSC § 4.3 High relevance — show source text

    For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii. List the required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning effort.

    iv. Include the confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance staff training.

    4.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning plan, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Plan has been completed.

    Reference: 5 Functional performance testing

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.4, Functional performance testing.

    5.1 Intent:

    Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document, as set forth in the commissioning plan, that all components, equipment, systems and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified, and operate according to the Owner’s Project Requirements, Basis of Design, and plans and specifications.

    The following systems to be functionally tested are listed in the Basis of Design (Section 5.410.2.2 of the code):

    1. Renewable energy systems

    2. Landscape irrigation systems

    3. Water reuse systems

    5.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of commissioned equipment and interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific commissioning plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as is possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning.

    Elements of acceptable test procedures include:

    1. Date and party—Identification of the date of the test and the party conducting the test.

    2. Signature block—Signature of the designated commissioning lead and the equipment installing contractor attesting that the recorded test results are accurate.

    3. Prerequisites—Any conditions or related equipment checkout or testing that needs to be completed before conducting this test.

    4. Precautions—Identification of the risks involved to the test team members and the equipment and how to mitigate them.

    5. Instrumentation—Listing of the instrumentation and tools necessary to complete the test.

    6. Reference—In each procedure item, identify the source for what is being confirmed (e.g., sequence of operation ID, operating feature, specification requirement, etc.).

    8-18 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    1. Test instructions—Step-by-step instructions of how to complete the test, including functions to test and the conditions under which the tests should performed.

    2. Acceptance criteria—Measurable pass / fail criteria for each step of the test, as applicable.

    3. Results—Expected system response and space to document the actual response, readings, results and adjustments.

    4. Return to normal—Instructions that all systems and equipment are to be returned to their as-found state at the conclusion of the tests.

    5. Deficiencies—A list of deficiencies and how they were mitigated.

    5.3 Enforcement:

  • CRSC § 25921.1 High relevance — show source text

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1556.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    IDENTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1557.

    (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.

    (b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:

    1. A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or

    2. An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.

    3. A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.

    (c) Any representation of thermal performance which appear on any label, literature, advertising or any other writing intended for the public shall be consistent with the certification testing results and derating required by this article.

    (d) Any insulation with facings and membranes for which the flame spread exceeds 25 when tested with facings and membranes exposed to the flame during the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test must be clearly labeled with a statement that the product may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application. This subsection shall not apply to any product meeting the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a) and (c) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    INSPECTIONS

    Sec. 12-13-1558.

    After September 22, 1981, the Commission may, upon the consent of the owner or lessee, or upon securing a search warrant, have access, during normal working hours, to the premises of manufacturers, distributors and retailers of insulating material sold for installation within the state for the purpose of determining compliance with the standards promulgated pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such access shall be for the purposes of obtaining representative samples of subject insulation and inspecting records and documents pertaining to tests by approved testing labs.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

  • CRSC § 0.75. High relevance — show source text
    1. Except as provided in Items 5 and 6, the thermal performance test results certified under Section 1555 of this article shall be the average of the values obtained from at least three tests.
    2. The average measured thermal performance of the tests required by Items 5, 6 and 7 shall not be more than 5 percent below the value specified on the product. In addition, all insulation material sold within the state after September 22, 1981, shall have a measured thermal performance not more than 10 percent below the value specified on the product.
    3. All numbered test descriptions shall be contained in the document “Test Descriptions for Insulating Material” dated February 27, 1981.

    90 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    1. Facings on representative samples may be removed or modified by slitting for the ANSI/ASTM C177-76 and ANSI/ASTM C518-76 tests.

    2. All thermal performance testing equipment used for testing insulating materials shall be calibrated with samples referenced to the United States National Bureau of Standards.

    3. Manufacturers of loose fill insulations for which no settled density test is required by this section shall be required to include the installed design density in the identifying information described in Section 1557. The manufacturer shall provide sufficient documentation to establish a valid basis for the determination of installed design density. The Executive Director shall determine whether a valid basis exists for the installed design density claimed by the manufacturer. If it is determined that a valid basis does not exist, the director may assign an appropriate installed design density or may require an appropriate test to determine the installed design density. The manufacturer may appeal the Executive Director’s determination to the full Commission.

    4. Within 180 days after the availability of appropriate representative thickness calibration samples from the National Bureau of Standards, all insulating materials thicker than 1 inch (25 mm), which have not previously been tested at the representative thickness of a representative sample, shall be tested at representative thickness and recertified. Test results and a revised certification statement will be submitted to the Executive Director. The Executive Director shall determine if and when an appropriate representative thickness calibration sample is available from the National Bureau of Standards and shall publish a list of available representative thickness calibration samples. The manufacturer may appeal the Executive Director’s determination to the full Commission.

    5. All products which may be used for pressure fill retrofit wall application shall be separately tested for thermal performance using a sample prepared at the manufacturer’s recommended wall density for such applications.

    6. All water heater insulation kits and nonpreformed pipe insulation shall be tested for thermal performance at the installed compressed thickness of a typical application. Installed compressed thickness shall be determined according to Test Description Number 6. All nonpreformed duct insulation shall be labeled, in accordance with Section 1557(c), with an installed R -value equal to the R -value of the uncompressed insulation times 0.75. (b) Aluminum foil.

    7. Composition. The insulation shall have uniform flat surfaces and shall not be crumpled, torn or punctured. Aluminum foil shall contain not less than 99 percent aluminum. Kraft paper and flangeboard shall meet the requirements of ANSI/TAPPI T400 0S75. Flangeboard used for more than two insulation layers shall be of 28 point grade minimum, if single sheet flangeboard is used or 14 point grade minimum if double sheet flangeboard is used.

  • CRSC § 25921.1 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
    2. The wording of the certification seal, if such seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557 (b) (2) of this article.

    (c) Every certification statement shall be dated and signed by the manufacturer attesting to its truth and accuracy. Where the manufacturer is either a corporation or a business association, the certification statement shall be dated, signed and attested to by a responsible official thereof.

    (d) Within 45 days after receipt of a certification statement, the Executive Director shall forward, to the manufacturer, an acknowledgment that the statement has been received and that it is complete and accurate on its face.

    (e) Certification of the insulation material shall be deemed to occur upon forwarding of the acknowledgement by the Executive Director. If acknowledgment is not forwarded in a timely manner, certification shall be deemed to occur on the 45th day after receipt of the certification statement.

    (f) The statement of test results required in the certification may be based upon tests conducted prior to the adoptive date of this article if: (1) the same test was conducted within two years of the date of adoption, (2) the laboratory at which the tests were

    98 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    conducted has been approved for those tests as of the date of the certification statement, and (3) the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as the test and product referred to in the statement of test results.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1556.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    IDENTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1557.

    (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.

    (b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:

    1. A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or

    2. An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.

    3. A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.

  • CRSC § 8-10 Medium relevance — show source text

    (o) “Urea formaldehyde foam” means a cellular plastic insulation material generated in a continuous stream by mixing the components which are a urea formaldehyde resin, air and a foaming agent.

    Authority: Sections 25920 and 25922, Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25915 (a), 25920, 25921 and 25922, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY STANDARDS

    Sec. 12-13-1553. The manufacturer shall cause the testing of samples of insulating material for conformity with the quality standards described in this section.

    (a) General testing provisions. In testing any material pursuant to this section, the following general procedures shall be used.

    1. All tests with the exception of the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test shall be conducted using representative samples at the representative thickness of the insulation, except that when the final use of an insulating material entails a thickness less than the representative thickness, then the insulating material will be tested at the lesser thickness.

    2. Where uniformity of product ensures consistency of test results across a product grouping, test results for one may be used for certification of other products within that product group. The manufacturer shall provide sufficient documentation to establish a valid basis for applying a particular test result to other products within the group. The Executive Director shall determine whether a valid basis exists for grouping products for testing pursuant to this subsection. If it is determined that a valid basis does not exist, individual tests shall be required. A manufacturer may appeal the Executive Director’s determination to the full Commission.

    3. Thermal performance of building insulations shall be stated in R value. Other insulations shall use thermal conductivity, conductance or R value as appropriate.

    4. All thermal performance tests shall be conducted on materials which have been conditioned at 73.4° ± 3.6°F and a relative humidity of 50 ± 5 percent for 24 hours immediately preceding the tests. The average testing temperature shall be 75° ± 2°F with at least a 40°F (4°C) temperature difference.

    5. Aluminum foil insulation shall be tested according to ANSI/ASTM C236-66 to determine the thermal performance in horizontal, upward and downward directions. The tested thermal performance in the heat-flow direction or directions of the intended application shall be labeled on the material. The manufacturer shall test once in each direction of intended application, except that for products labeled with only one heat-flow direction, the manufacturer shall test two samples in that direction.

    6. Insulation (other than aluminum foil insulation materials) for which additional value is claimed for facings and air spaces shall be tested for thermal performance as a material without the air space pursuant to this article. The manufacturer may elect to report additional thermal performance values of a given construction tested according to ANSI/ASTM C236-66 for that construction as long as full details of that construction are also disclosed in the certification statement and pursuant to Section 1557 (c) of this article. If a manufacturer elects to report a thermal performance value for a material plus an air space (as supplemental information to the required material thermal performance), but not necessarily for a full construction, the manufacturer must also disclose the conditions of the test and the limitations to the attainment of that result.

  • CRSC § 73.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    A manufacturer may appeal the Executive Director’s determination to the full Commission.

    1. Thermal performance of building insulations shall be stated in R value. Other insulations shall use thermal conductivity, conductance or R value as appropriate.

    2. All thermal performance tests shall be conducted on materials which have been conditioned at 73.4° ± 3.6°F and a relative humidity of 50 ± 5 percent for 24 hours immediately preceding the tests. The average testing temperature shall be 75° ± 2°F with at least a 40°F (4°C) temperature difference.

    3. Aluminum foil insulation shall be tested according to ANSI/ASTM C236-66 to determine the thermal performance in horizontal, upward and downward directions. The tested thermal performance in the heat-flow direction or directions of the intended application shall be labeled on the material. The manufacturer shall test once in each direction of intended application, except that for products labeled with only one heat-flow direction, the manufacturer shall test two samples in that direction.

    4. Insulation (other than aluminum foil insulation materials) for which additional value is claimed for facings and air spaces shall be tested for thermal performance as a material without the air space pursuant to this article. The manufacturer may elect to report additional thermal performance values of a given construction tested according to ANSI/ASTM C236-66 for that construction as long as full details of that construction are also disclosed in the certification statement and pursuant to Section 1557 (c) of this article. If a manufacturer elects to report a thermal performance value for a material plus an air space (as supplemental information to the required material thermal performance), but not necessarily for a full construction, the manufacturer must also disclose the conditions of the test and the limitations to the attainment of that result.

    5. Except as provided in Items 5 and 6, the thermal performance test results certified under Section 1555 of this article shall be the average of the values obtained from at least three tests.

    6. The average measured thermal performance of the tests required by Items 5, 6 and 7 shall not be more than 5 percent below the value specified on the product. In addition, all insulation material sold within the state after September 22, 1981, shall have a measured thermal performance not more than 10 percent below the value specified on the product.

    7. All numbered test descriptions shall be contained in the document “Test Descriptions for Insulating Material” dated February 27, 1981.

    90 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    1. Facings on representative samples may be removed or modified by slitting for the ANSI/ASTM C177-76 and ANSI/ASTM C518-76 tests.

    2. All thermal performance testing equipment used for testing insulating materials shall be calibrated with samples referenced to the United States National Bureau of Standards.

    3. Manufacturers of loose fill insulations for which no settled density test is required by this section shall be required to include the installed design density in the identifying information described in Section 1557. The manufacturer shall provide sufficient documentation to establish a valid basis for the determination of installed design density. The Executive Director shall determine whether a valid basis exists for the installed design density claimed by the manufacturer. If it is determined that a valid basis does not exist, the director may assign an appropriate installed design density or may require an appropriate test to determine the installed design density. The manufacturer may appeal the Executive Director’s determination to the full Commission.

  • CMC § 2025 Medium relevance — show source text

    after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|System returned to initial operating conditions after all tests have been completed:|Y/N|Y/N|Y/N|Y/N|Y/N|Y/N|Y/N|Y/N|Y/N|

    B. Testing Results A B C D E F G
    Indicate if Passed (P), Failed (F), or N/A (X), fill in appropriate letter.

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 497

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    APPENDIX E

    CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE MECH-3A Col2
    Constant Volume Single Zone Unitary Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Systems
    (Page 3 of 3)    		 Constant Volume Single Zone Unitary Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Systems
    (Page 3 of 3)
    Project Name/Address: Project Name/Address:
    System Name or Identification/Tag: System Location or Area Served:
    C. PASS/FAIL Evaluation. (check one):
    PASS: AllConstruction Inspection responses are complete andTesting Results responses are “Pass” (P).
    FAIL: AnyConstruction Inspection responses are incomplete OR there is one or more “Fail” (F) responses in
    Testing Results section. Provide explanation below. Use and attach additional pages if necessary.

    498 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    APPENDIX E

    CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE MECH-4A Col2
    Air Distribution Systems Acceptance
    (Page 1 of 3)    		 Air Distribution Systems Acceptance
    (Page 1 of 3)


    Project Name/Address:

    Project Name/Address:



    System Name or Identification/Tag:    		 System Location or Area Served:
    Enforcement Agency: Permit Number:



    Note: Submit one Certificate of Acceptance for each system that
    must demonstrate compliance.    		 Enforcement Agency Use: Checked by/Date

    FIELD TECHNICIAN’S DECLARATION STATEMENT

    • I certify under penalty of perjury the information provided on this form is true and correct.

    • I am the person who performed the acceptance requirements verification reported on this Certificate of Acceptance (Field Technician).

  • CRSC § 12-7 Medium relevance — show source text

    (e) Furnace pressure. The pressure in the furnace chamber during the fire test shall be maintained as nearly equal to atmospheric pressure as possible. Horizontal furnaces may be operated at a slight negative pressure sufficient to reduce haze permitting visual observation. Furnace stacks shall be equipped with dampers to facilitate maintenance of furnace pressure.

    CORRELATION

    Sec. 12-7-305. Tests of specific assemblies of materials shall be conducted for correlation (or correlation factor) of furnace exposure by comparison with tests of identical assemblies and materials conducted in furnaces of “Approved Listing Agencies” which furnaces are deemed as conforming to the design and operating requirements of this standard.

    Correlation tests of wall furnaces shall include tests of two assemblies, one combustible and one noncombustible.

    Correlation tests of horizontal furnaces dependent on intended test specimens shall include at least one test for each type of assembly such as combustible ceiling-floor assembly, noncombustible assembly having a high thermal capacity floor for heat dissipation, noncombustible assembly having an insulating concrete floor or other type of design.

    Comparison of test results shall provide evidence of equivalent exposure based on transmitted temperatures on the unexposed side, on structural framing members, on the underside of floor or roof decks, and in the plenum space.

    28 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    FIRE-RESISTIVE STANDARDS

    2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 29

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    30 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    12-7-4 FIRE-RESISTIVE STANDARDS

    FIRE DOOR ASSEMBLY TESTS

    STANDARD 12-7-4

    STATE FIRE MARSHAL

    SCOPE

    Sec. 12-7-400.

    (a) Application. These methods of fire tests are applicable to door assemblies of various materials and types of construction for use in wall openings to retard the passage of fire (flame, heat and smoke).

    (b) Performance. Tests made in conformity with these test methods will register performance during the test exposure, but such tests shall not be construed as determining suitability for use after exposure to fire.

    (c) Suitability of assemblies. It is the intent that tests made in conformity with these test methods will develop data to enable enforcing agencies to determine the suitability of door assemblies for use in locations where fire resistance of a specified duration is required.

    FIRE TESTING FURNACES AND CONTROL

    Sec. 12-7-401.

    (a) Furnaces. Fire testing furnaces and their control shall conform to SFM 12-7-3, Fire Testing Furnaces, Section 12-7-301 (a), Vertical Large-scale Wall Furnaces.

  • CRSC § 1701A.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    1701A.4 Special inspections and tests. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] In addition to the project inspector required by the California Adminis- trative Code (CCR, Title 24, Part 1), Section 4-333, the owner shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special inspections and tests as required by the enforcement agency during construction on the types of work listed under Chapters 14, 15, 17A, 18A, 19A, 20, 21A, 22A, 23, 24 and 25 and the California Existing Building Code and noted in the special inspection, test and observation plan required by the California Administrative Code.

    SECTION 1702 A —NEW MATERIALS

    1702 A .1 General. New building materials, equipment, appliances, systems or methods of construction not provided for in this code, and any material of questioned suitability proposed for use in the construction of a building or structure, shall be subjected to the tests prescribed in this chapter and in the approved rules to determine character, quality and limitations of use.

    SECTION 1703 A —APPROVALS

    1703 A .1 Approved agency. An approved agency shall provide all information as necessary for the building official to determine that the agency meets the applicable requirements specified in Sections 1703 A .1.1 through 1703 A .1.3.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17A-3

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    �

    �

    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    1703 A .1.1 Independence. An approved agency shall be objective, competent and independent from any other entity providing inspection services and contractor (s) responsible for the work being inspected. The agency shall disclose to the building official and the registered design professional in responsible charge possible conflicts of interest so that objectivity can be confirmed.

    1703 A .1.2 Equipment. An approved agency shall have adequate equipment to perform required tests. The equipment shall be periodically calibrated.

    1703 A .1.3 Personnel. An approved agency shall employ experienced personnel educated in conducting, supervising and evaluating tests and special inspections.

    1703 A .2 Written approval. Any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of construction meeting the requirements of this code shall be approved in writing after satisfactory completion of the required tests and submission of required test reports.

    1703 A .3 Record of approval. For any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of construction that has been approved, a record of such approval, including the conditions and limitations of the approval, shall be kept on file in the building official’s office and shall be available for public review at appropriate times.

    1703 A .4 Performance. Specific information consisting of test reports conducted by an approved agency in accordance with the appropriate referenced standards, or other such information as necessary, shall be provided for the building official to determine that the product, material or assembly meets the applicable code requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Can the Commission use a single independent test to enforce?

The Code contemplates independent performance tests as the basis for enforcement under § 12-13-1559, but procedural practice (number of tests, representative sampling, and whether averages are required) is governed by the testing rules in § 12-13-1553 and related sections. For certification averages, at least three tests are typical.

Does the Commission need the owner's permission to enter a factory or warehouse for samples?

No — the Commission may obtain access with the owner’s consent or may secure a search warrant to inspect premises and obtain samples under § 12-13-1558.

If a test shows the product is out of tolerance, is the Commission required to start enforcement?

§ 12-13-1559 says the tests "shall form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings," which means the results can support enforcement. The Code does not prescribe the Commission’s enforcement discretion or all procedural steps in this single section; other enforcement procedures and notices will follow agency practice and other statutory provisions.

Are contracted labs acceptable for Commission testing?

Yes. § 12-13-1559 expressly allows the Commission to contract with others to conduct independent performance tests.

Where are the test methods and calibration rules found?

Test descriptions, conditioning, calibration to the National Bureau of Standards, and the requirement to average at least three tests (where applicable) are found in § 12-13-1553 and related items.

More in California Referenced Standards Code

Ask about the CRSC

Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Referenced Standards Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.

Start Free Trial

Related in the CRSC

What inspection and sample-collection powers does the Commission have?

Where are costs of inspection and enforcement addressed (reserved)?

How are testing laboratories approved for insulation testing?

Testing, laboratory approval, inspections and performance testing

California Referenced Standards Code