In new construction bathrooms less than 55 sqft with a plastic kit shower and no drywall, what is the minimal thermal barrier required?

In the context of fire protection within bathrooms that are less than 55 square feet and equipped with a plastic kit shower without drywall, the regulations necessitate a thermal barrier that can withstand fire exposure for a minimum amount of time. Specifically, a 15-minute thermal barrier is required to ensure adequate protection.

This requirement aligns with building codes that are designed to limit the spread of fire and provide occupants with a safe amount of time to react in case of an emergency. The purpose of the thermal barrier is to prevent heat and flames from igniting nearby materials and to protect the structural integrity within that area during a fire event.

By specifying a 15-minute thermal barrier, it ensures that there is sufficient time for emergency response and to mitigate potential fire hazards, particularly in smaller spaces where material congestion can lead to faster fire spread. This aligns with best practices in fire safety and the need to safeguard living areas, especially in residential constructions.