Reoccupancy is the time elapsed after SPF installation in a building when it is deemed safe for building occupants or residents to resume normal building operations and activities. Reentry is the time elapsed, after SPF installation in a building, when it is deemed safe for applicators, helpers, and other trade workers to enter the building and resume operations without the need for personal protective equipment (PPE).
Reoccupancy and Reentry Time Factors
Reoccupancy and reentry time is dependent on a number of factors, including:
- SPF formulation
- Amount of foam applied per volume of space
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Degree of ventilation
In addition to the release of airborne SPF chemicals during spray application, certain components can emit from newly installed SPF products for a short period of time following installation. Contact your supplier for guidance on ventilation rates and reoccupancy and reentry times.
Some SPF manufacturers may have had their SPF products tested using the Canadian Standard Laboratory Guide for the Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds from Polyurethane Foam (CAN/ULC S774-06). If so, request from the manufacturer the recommended reoccupancy time for that SPF product. In some cases, this information is publicly available. For example, the Canadian Construction Materials Centre has a searchable Registry of Product Evaluations available that contains product evaluations for many types of building products, including SPF insulation.
Evaluation Reports
Evaluation reports for many types of building products, including SPF insulation, often include the suggested reoccupancy time, which is variable. Consult the product manufacturer to determine the recommended reoccupancy time for the particular job and SPF in use.
- For an interior application using two-component, high-pressure SPF, some manufacturers recommend a minimum of 24 hours before reoccupancy.
- For an interior application using two-component, low-pressure SPF kit application, some manufacturers recommend a minimum of 1 hour before reoccupancy.