to main content ILSM - Temporary Construction Barriers | Ambulatory | Environment of Care EC | The Joint Commission
ILSM - Temporary Construction Barriers

Do plastic sheets constitute acceptable temporary barriers in and around construction areas?

Any examples are for illustrative purposes only

Unrated flammable plastic sheets (such as Visqueen), do not constitute acceptable temporary barriers. Even though flammable plastic sheets taped across an opening may form a dust seal, they are incapable of controlling fire. The only thing they can do is keep air and particulate from moving to unwanted locations. Therefore, they are good for infection control, and on a limited basis, for resisting smoke passage caused by a fire, friction or welding/brazing in the construction zone. But these sheet types do nothing to stop the fire itself.  

The Joint Commission standards require that temporary construction partitions be smoke tight and built of noncombustible or limited combustible materials (sheet rock, gypsum board) that will not contribute to the development or spread of fire." Ensure that evidence of "limited combustibility" can be furnished if questioned during survey or other inspection.

Reference EC.02.06.05 EP3  
Manual: Ambulatory
Chapter: Environment of Care EC
First published date: April 11, 2016 This Standards FAQ was first published on this date.
This page was last updated on June 12, 2023 with update notes of: Editorial changes only Types of changes and an explanation of change type: Editorial changes only: Format changes only. No changes to content. | Review only, FAQ is current: Periodic review completed, no changes to content. | Reflects new or updated requirements: Changes represent new or revised requirements.
Was this response helpful?

If no, please comment on how we could improve this response.

If you have additional standards-related questions regarding this topic, please use the Standards Online Submission Form

Get Extra Help with Books and E-books

Browse our gallery of books and e-books to find trusted prep and readiness resources, practical checklists and toolkits, and resources on specialized health care topics.

Stay Informed with Online Education

Online education is the most convenient and cost-effective way to educate your staff and minimize expenses without the need to leave your organization.

Reach Your Safety Goals with eProducts

Assessing and sustaining compliance with accreditation standards or CMS CoPs can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Rely on our proven software solutions developed by our team of industry experts.

Can't Find What You're Looking For?

If you do not find an answer to your question, please contact the Standards Interpretation Group (SIG).

Note: To provide adequate support to those organizations that are either accredited/certified or seeking accreditation/certification, we will only answer those questions submitted by those organizations seeking accreditation/certification or currently accredited/certified by the Joint Commission. The Joint Commission no longer answers questions submitted by students or vendors. Thank you for your understanding.