Gypsum board on a structural column (e.g., steel) provides fire resistance by insulating the structural member, per IBC Chapter 7. Removing it exposes the column, reducing its fire rating (e.g., from 2-hour to unprotected), as steel loses strength in heat without protection. Increasing (B) is impossible without adding fireproofing. No change (C) ignores gypsum's protective role.Reduction (A) reflects the loss of fire resistance.
Verified Answer from Official Source:A - Reduce the fire rating of the assembly
"Removing gypsum board from a structural column reduces the fire rating by eliminating its protective layer, per IBC requirements." (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Section 1: Codes and Standards) Explanation from Official Source:The NCIDQ aligns with IBC, noting that fire-rated assemblies rely on finishes like gypsum for protection, critical for structural safety.
Objectives:
* Apply fire protection codes (IDPX Objective 1.4).