L&I requires that all contractors use certified applicators for applying fire-resistant materials in certain buildings. Find a list of current certified applicators here.

NOTE: Fire-Resistant Materials Applicator certification enforcement is now set to begin on August 26th, 2026. Read the official announcement.

L&I started accepting and reviewing applications for applicators beginning January 1, 2026. Applicators are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid processing backlogs and to be prepared ahead of the revised enforcement date.

Chapter 296-156 WAC makes sure that anyone applying these materials has the necessary training and certification. This new standard establishes training requirements and enforcement procedures leading to public safety benefits. Contractors must verify certifications and maintain records. Applicators must maintain current credentials to perform this work in covered building projects.

The requirement applies to those contractors that are:

• Installing spray on fire proofing in all building types I-V according to the International Building Code.
  • Examples are mixed-use buildings, offices, schools and medical buildings.
• Working on risk category III and IV buildings. They must use certified applicators.
  • Examples are high occupancy schools and medical facilities.

The training program(s) shall be provided by:

• An apprenticeship program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.
• Fire-resistant materials manufacturers.
• Certified training providers approved by L&I.

To have your training approved and become a certified training provider, complete the following steps:

• Read and understand the process and requirements as outlined in WAC 269-156-030.
• Develop a training program for approval as outlined in WAC 296-156-030 and WAC 296-156-050.
• Determine your competent instructor(s) as defined by WAC 296-156-003, collect resumes and other supporting information, and complete an application for each of them using the applicable instructor application form:
  • Firestop Resistant Material Competent Instructor Application (F417-329-000)
  • Spray Fire-Resistant Material Instructor Application (F417-330-000)
• Compile course documents and complete the applicable course application form: 
  • Firestop Training Course Application (F417-327-000)
  • Spray-Fire Training Course Application (F417-328-000)
• Upload all applications and supporting documents to the Training and Credential System using your MyL&I login.
  • Find guidance on navigating the system.
  • NOTE: Instructors must be uploaded before courses can be added.

Keep in mind:

There must be at least one instructor for every twenty (20) students for classroom instruction and one instructor for every ten (10) students during hands-on instruction.

Course approvals are valid for three (3) years.

Any updates to an approved training course must be reviewed and approved by L&I in advance of being incorporated into a training course. Contact FRMApplicators@Lni.wa.gov if you wish to make any updates.

Per WAC 296-156-060, L&I may deny, suspend, or revoke a course approval if the authorized training provider does not comply with the training requirements WAC 296-156.

To become a certified applicator, complete the following steps:

• Attend and successfully complete an approved spray fireproofing or firestop training course for applicators.
  
  • You must contact the sponsor directly to sign up for a course. Find a list of upcoming FRMA course sponsors and sessions.
• Complete the Fire-Resistant Materials Applicator Certified Application (F417-326-000) and provide completed form to your course sponsor..
• Course sponsors will submit the applications via the Training and Credential System.
• Once the roster has been marked completed by the course sponsor, your certification card will automatically be emailed to you. If you do not receive your certification card within ten (10) days of finishing the course, email FRMApplicators@lni.wa.gov.

Keep in mind:

• Applicator certifications are valid for five (5) years from the date of course completion. You must attend a refresher course to renew your certification.
  • Initial training must be repeated for certifications that have lapsed more than two (2) years.
• You are not required to carry a physical card with you. The virtual card satisfies documentation requirements.

The following list of course sponsors are certified instruct certified Fire-Resistant Material Courses. It does not imply endorsement of any company by L&I. This list was last updated August 20, 2026. Find a list of upcoming course sessions.

Training and Credential System

Find current course sessions and search for applicator status with our Training and Credential System Public Search Tool.

Publications, handouts, checklists

• Q&A: Fire-Resistant Materials Application Certification

Requirements

• Applicator training and certification requirements (WAC 296-156-020)
• Training course approval requirements (WAC 296-156-030)

Applications

• Fire-Resistant Materials Applicator Certified Application (F417-326-000)
• Firestop Resistant Material Competent Instructor Application (F417-329-000)
• Spray Fire-Resistant Material Instructor Application (F417-330-000)
• Firestop Training Course Application (F417-327-000)
• Spray-Fire Training Course Application (F417-328-000)

Other resources

• International Building Code
• Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council
• FRMA Rulemaking Stakeholder Information — Background information about the rule, Chapter 296-156 WAC, and the rulemaking process.