Here’s why Firestop is Critical

Fire prevention is imperative. We all know that human life is the primary concern when a fire breaks out, however a building can be badly damaged or destroyed.

The keys to fire prevention are prevention, detection, suppression and compartmentation.

The main purpose of fire stopping is compartmentation of space.

Compartmentation is the process of limiting the spread of fire by using fire resistive barriers.

Firestop protection is accomplished thru passive or active means. Fire alarms and sprinklers are examples of active protection because they rely on an external means of energy such as electricity or water. Fire stopping is a passive barrier because of its inherent properties.

Compartmentation is the process of splitting a space in to smaller areas or zones to keep toxic fumes, smoke and fire from spreading. Each zone must contain a fire within the zone or prevent fire from an external zone for a specified period of time. These barriers are then tested and given a fire resistant rating based on the results of a fire exposure test. The correct firestop is utilized to meet the fire resistant rating. For more information on barrier standards refer to ASTM E119, UL 263 and NFPA 251.