What Is Firestop and Its Role in Building Safety?

Introduction

In modern construction, fire safety is a critical consideration that affects the lives of occupants, the integrity of buildings, and the overall safety of communities. While active fire protection systems, such as sprinklers and alarms, are often top of mind, passive fire protection systems are just as important in safeguarding buildings. A key element of passive fire protection is the firestop system.

Firestop systems are designed to seal openings and joints in fire-rated walls and floors, preventing the spread of flames, toxic gases, and smoke. By ensuring that fires are contained within specific areas, firestopping helps to protect escape routes, limit structural damage, and buy time for building occupants to evacuate safely. This blog delves into the crucial role that firestop systems play in building safety, the materials and techniques involved, and how they comply with stringent fire safety regulations.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. What is Firestop?

A firestop is basically a component of a fire protection system placed in construction projects. Its main purpose is to seal gaps between corners and seal any sort of openings or penetrations in fire rated floors or walls, this sealing process basically helps prevent the spread of fire to other rooms. The gaps mentioned are usually created by construction of pipes, electrical cables and other forms of ductwork which can leave thin or hollow spaces providing places for fire to seep through. 

With the absence of firestopping, these openings would easily serve as roads for fire to spread through other rooms and throughout the building in a matter of minutes. Destroying the structural integrity of the building and the safety of the people residing in it.  

The firestop system consists of specifically designed fire resistant materials and components that will expand when exposed to any form of heat. These unique chemically composed materials fill up the gaps and block the penetrative forces of fire making sure that the fire remains sealed in a specific room for the time being, giving enough time for security to take action and evacuate the premises and put out the fire. 

It is a common misconception that in the event of a fire only the flames can disrupt and destroy a building, when in reality the rapid spread of smoke and burning and melting debris can cause greater damage to life and the integrity of the building more than the flames itself. Firestopping processes minimize this damage by providing barriers with the building, cutting off the supply of heat transfer and slowing down the progression of the fire. This is basically called passive fire protection, it works well with fireproofing and increases the overall quality of safety in the construction. The ultimate goal of firestopping is to prevent a fire and localize it to a contained area before it becomes a building-wide catastrophe. 

2. Key Components of Firestop Systems

Firestop Materials

Firestop systems usually require a range of specialized fireproof or fire-resistant materials to seal penetrations and joints in fire-rated assemblies. The effectiveness of firestopping depends heavily on selecting the right material for the job. Common materials include:

• Firestop Shotcrete: Firestop shotcrete is a cementitious material that provides a robust fire-resistant barrier. It can be applied to various surfaces, sealing penetrations and joints effectively. Shotcrete offers durability and structural integrity, making it a valuable addition to firestop systems, especially in large areas where traditional materials might be less practical. Its application can enhance the overall effectiveness of firestopping by providing a strong, continuous barrier against the spread of fire and smoke.
• Silicones: Silicone based firestop materials provide strong adhesive properties and give a certain sense of flexibility to the surface making them the perfect product for areas that are subject to movement, such as joints. They can easily bear high temperatures and maintain their properties for long periods. 
• Mineral Fibers: Mineral wool is often required in firestop devices due to its impressive insulation qualities and high resistance to extreme temperatures. This material acts as a barrier and can be packed into small openings in pipes or cables and stops fire from spreading. 
• Rubbers: Rubber based materials expand when exposed to heat, creating a sort of seal around pipes and other opening areas. This is useful for firestopping systems especially where any sort of movement can occur, as the rubber is versatile enough to adjust accordingly and provides a proper fit in many hard to fit places. 
• Intumescents: Intumescent materials are an important material of many different firestopping systems. These materials expand when they absorb heat from high temperatures, providing an insulator-like barrier that blocks the transfer of fire and smoke. These materials are usually used around pipes, ducts and cable trays.

Types of Firestop Devices:

There are many other firestop systems that include a different array of devices that are specifically designed to close off openings in fire rated walls and floors. These devices include:

• Pipe Collars: Pipe collars are circular devices that cover plastic pipes. When they are exposed to heat, the collar’s intumescent lining expands and crushes the plastic pipe and closes off the pipe completely. 
• Pass-Through Devices: These are used to provide security to multiple cables, conduits or pipes that are passing through a single opening. They provide easy access and allow for retrofitting and editing without any way of compromising the integrity of the firestop system. 
• Firestop Pillows: They are soft and flexible and can be used in temporary firestop systems. They are usually placed around cables or pipes and can be removed and altered when repairs are required. They expand under heat to block openings. 

3. Firestop Applications

Penetration Sealants:

Penetration sealants play a key role in sealing gaps or openings created when pipes, ducts, or cables pass through fire-rated walls or floors. These sealants form an air- and water-tight barrier that prevents fire and smoke from spreading to adjacent areas. There are different types of penetration sealants based on the type of penetration and the material surrounding it.

For instance, a typical scenario involves the installation of cables running through multiple floors of a building. In this case, the use of intumescent sealants around the cables helps ensure that the firestop system expands when exposed to high temperatures, completely sealing off the opening. The key is to ensure that the entire circumference around the penetration is adequately sealed to prevent any leakage.

Fire-Resistant Walls and Floors:

Firestop systems are most frequently installed in fire-rated walls and floors, which are designed to contain fire for a specified duration (e.g., one hour, two hours). The firestopping in these areas helps ensure that any openings created by penetrations, such as pipes or HVAC ducts, do not compromise the fire resistance of the assembly. The installation of firestopping in walls and floors is a vital component of a building’s fire safety strategy. Properly installed firestop systems will maintain the integrity of fire-rated barriers, ensuring that the compartmentalization of different building areas remains intact even in a fire.

In multi-story buildings, this can be critical for preventing the vertical spread of fire, which is often facilitated by shafts, conduits, and other openings. Fire-resistant walls and floors equipped with firestop systems play a critical role in protecting occupants, assets, and the overall structure during a fire.

4. Firestopping Techniques and Regulations

Firestopping Standards:

Firestopping techniques are governed by a number of codes and standards to ensure the proper design and installation of these critical systems. One of the most prominent organizations setting standards for firestopping is the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA), which provides guidelines on the materials, installation, and inspection of firestopping systems. NFPA 101, also known as the Life Safety Code®, outlines the requirements for fire-rated assemblies and the necessity for firestop systems to be installed and maintained in specific building areas.

Additionally, firestop products and systems must be tested and approved by recognized testing agencies, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or FM Global. These organizations evaluate firestop products under extreme fire conditions to determine their effectiveness in preventing the spread of fire and smoke.

Regulations and Compliance:

In many countries, building codes mandate the use of firestop systems to enhance fire safety in commercial, industrial, and residential buildings, ensuring that penetrations and joints in fire-rated assemblies are properly sealed to prevent fire spread. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for both the safety of the building’s occupants and to avoid legal penalties.

Proper firestop installation is also subject to third-party inspection to verify that the work adheres to the relevant codes and standards. Regular maintenance and inspection are necessary to ensure that firestopping remains effective, especially in areas where retrofits or repairs may disturb the system.

5. Comparing Fireproofing and Firestopping

Fireproofing vs. Firestopping

Even though they are used in similar systems, Fireproofing and firestopping serve different functions in the security of construction projects and have different purposes. 

• Fireproofing: This method ensures a certain amount of structural integrity to steel beams and columns, making them resistant to fire. It usually involves providing fire-resistant coatings and insulation materials in the building to provide extra security to the structural integrity of the building in the case of a fire. 
• Firestopping: Firestopping aims to seal any type of openings, penetrations and joints within fire barriers, such as walls, ceilings and floors. Its main goal is to contain the spread of fire and smoke by sealing off areas and openings through which fire and smoke can pass through.

While fireproofing provides protection to the structure, firestopping provides multiple different methods of stopping the spread of fire. Making sure that fire does not spread through a building’s vent systems or openings. When used together these systems and devices provide a strong and secure solution to reducing the dangers and destruction in a fire. 

6. Common Firestop System Types

There are several types of firestop systems, each designed for specific applications and fire protection needs. Here are some common types used in construction:

Slab Edge Firestop: 

This system is used where the edge of a concrete slab meets a curtain wall or other fire-rated assembly. It seals off the gap between the exterior wall and the floor to prevent fire from spreading between floors.

Curtain Wall Firestop: 

Installed in buildings with curtain walls, this system prevents the fire from spreading horizontally or vertically within the gaps between the wall and the floor or ceiling. It’s commonly used in high-rise buildings to ensure that fires are confined to specific areas.

Joint Firestopping: 

This system is used to seal expansion joints, head-of-wall joints, and other linear openings. Joint firestopping helps maintain the integrity of fire-rated walls and floors, preventing fire from passing through these critical areas.

These systems are often combined to create comprehensive fire protection strategies in various building types, from residential structures to commercial high-rises. Each system must be chosen carefully to match the specific requirements of the building’s design and use.

7. Practical Considerations and Best Practices

Installation Tips:

• The installation process of firestop systems are highly important for ensuring their effectiveness in the event of a fire. The installation should always be carried out by proper professionals to guarantee that it meets all the safety standards.
• The professionals will make sure that proper high quality materials are used for applications. 
• Strong adherence to manufacturing standards for proper product installations and curing times. 

Maintenance and Inspection:

• Conduct regular and periodic reviews of all firestop systems, especially after a construction change.
• Follow proper procedures and schedule a maintenance program to replace and fix old firestopping materials.
• Keep an updated record of all installations, modifications that can help with inspections and repair if necessary. 

Conclusion

In the realm of passive fire protection, firestop systems are indispensable. They provide a critical line of defense, containing the spread of fire, smoke, and harmful gases, and safeguarding lives and property. By choosing the right materials, adhering to firestopping regulations, and maintaining regular inspections, building owners and contractors can ensure that their structures are prepared for the unexpected.

Understanding firestop systems and their applications is essential not only for compliance but also for enhancing the overall safety of any construction project. As buildings become more complex, firestop systems must evolve to meet modern demands while keeping people safe. Whether you are a building owner, a contractor, or an architect, firestopping should be at the forefront of your fire protection strategy.

If you’re planning a construction project or need to upgrade your fire protection systems, contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with firestop systems, their installation, and ongoing inspections.

FAQs

What exactly is a firestop system?

A firestop system is a combination of fire-resistant materials and devices used to seal openings and joints in walls and floors, preventing the spread of fire and smoke in a building. It plays a crucial role in passive fire protection by containing fires within specific areas.

What materials are commonly used in firestop systems?

Firestop systems often use materials like silicones, mineral fibers, rubbers, and intumescents. These materials expand when exposed to heat, creating barriers to fire and smoke.

What is the difference between firestopping and fireproofing?

Firestopping involves sealing openings and joints in fire-rated walls and floors to prevent the spread of fire, while fireproofing refers to applying fire-resistant materials to structures like steel beams to prevent them from weakening during a fire.

Are there regulations governing the use of firestop systems?

Yes, firestop systems are regulated by standards set by organizations like the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA), Building Regulations 2019, and BS 7671:2018. These guidelines ensure the correct installation and maintenance of firestopping for optimal safety.

How often should firestop systems be inspected?

Firestop systems should be regularly inspected, typically as part of the building’s routine safety inspections. This ensures the systems remain effective and comply with evolving regulations, particularly after any renovations or structural changes.