Flood-barrier product certification reflects the suitability, performance, reliability, durability and consistency of the product in the toughest conditions. Our certification instills confidence and commands respect in the flood-fighting product marketplace.
MISSION
The MISSION of this program is to provide a process for objectively testing and certifying flood barrier products with a focus on:
- Encouraging the development and improvement of flood-fighting products
- Consistency through the use of technological standards
VISION
GOALS
The GOALS of this program include unbiased testing, product reliability, and the development of better flood-fighting products. There are a number of ways to accomplish these goals to fight floods. One way is through an innovative approach based on higher standards and partnerships that we can employ to achieve our goals. Consistency of product testing through rigorous standards is key to successful flood-risk management.
VALUES
These values reflect the people who contribute to this program’s success.
01.
Quality
02.
Integrity
03.
Teamwork
04.
Advent of Change
05.
Accountability
BENEFITS
Flood-fighting product manufacturers should consider these benefits when thinking about whether or not to get a product certified through our program:
To Gain Marketing Advantages
A certified product may display the FM Approved mark (Blue Diamond) authorized by FM Approvals as a certification mark for products that meet the minimum requirements of our program. This also indicates that the product has undergone evaluation and testing to verify that the product should perform as indicated.
To Meet Regulatory Requirements
Some communities have specific regulations permitting only certified products to be sold in their jurisdiction.
Proven Performance
When you buy a product, you expect it to work. You expect that it will function and perform as the manufacturer intended. This program focuses on reliability and integrity through certification.
To Ensure Consistency
Our program, based upon ANSI FM 2510 standards and through FM Approvals’ ongoing manufacturer audits, verifies that manufacturing processes remain effective and consistent.
Unbiased & Objective Approach
Our focus is to increase product reliability through unbiased testing and to promote the development of better flood-fighting products.
Additional benefits to participating in the program is that certified products are featured on this website and listed in the “Approval Guide.” The Approval Guide houses real-time information about tens of thousands of products and services tested and FM Approved.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Next, cost estimates are prepared and reviewed with the manufacturer. Two cost estimates are provided: (1) water testing (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Engineer Research Development Center), and (2) product material testing (FM Approvals). The Manufacturer pays for all testing costs. Depending on the product, logistics involved, and scalability of testing, cost estimates are provided on a case-by-case basis.
Should the manufacturer wish to proceed, ASFPM will initiate an agreement with the manufacturer and schedule water testing with the USACE – Research and Development Center. FM Approvals will initiate a separate agreement with the manufacturer in accordance with their product material testing and certification process.
Interested in applying? Go here Application for Participation.
WATER TESTING CRITERIA
Flood barriers for opening barrier and perimeter barrier applications will be water tested and certified per the maximum hydrostatic depth determined by the manufacturer and/or product specifications.
Water testing of flood barriers for opening barrier and perimeter barrier applications will be conducted by the USACE – Engineer Research and Development Center in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Opening barriers, flood mitigation pumps, flood mitigation valves, and penetration sealing devices will be conducted either at ERDC or the manufacturer’s facility. Conducting water testing at an independent facility/lab will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Water testing is conducted in strict accordance with approval standard ANSI FM 2510 and must be witnessed and validated by representatives from FM Approvals
PRODUCT MATERIAL TESTING
Product material testing is conducted in strict accordance with approval standard ANSI FM 2510. Testing will be conducted by FM Approvals at their world-class, 1,600-acre, state-of-the-art global research campus in West Glocester, Rhode Island.