(a) General. Except for foam plastic materials and as provided in this section, exposed and concealed thermal insulating materials, including any facings, must be tested in accordance with NFPA 255-96, Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials (incorporated by reference, see § 3280.4) and must have a flame spread index of 25 or less and a smoke developed index of 450 or less. The flame spread and smoke developed limitations do not apply to:

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(1) Coverings and facings of insulation batts or blankets installed in concealed spaces when the facings are in substantial contact with the unexposed surface of wall, floor, or ceiling finish; or

(2) Cellulose loose-fill insulation that complies with paragraph (b) of this section.

(b) Loose-fill insulation. (1) Cellulose loose-fill insulation that is not spray-applied or self-supporting must comply with, and each package must be labeled in accordance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements in 16 CFR parts 1209 and 1404.

(2) Other loose-fill insulation that cannot be mounted in the NFPA 255-96, test apparatus without a screen or other artificial support must be tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2-M88, Standard Method of Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Floor Coverings and Miscellaneous Materials and Assemblies (incorporated by reference, see § 3280.4), and must have a flame spread index of 25 or less and a smoke developed index of 450 or less.

(c) Attic locations. Exposed insulation installed on the floor or ceiling forming the lower boundary of the attic must be tested in accordance with NFPA 253-2000, Standard Method of Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source (incorporated by reference, see § 3280.4) and must have a critical radiant flux of not less than 0.12 watt/cm2.