Passive fire protection systems are designed to compartmentalise a building so that, if a fire occurs, it is contained within a limited area. This is achieved through the use of fire-resistant elements such as doors, walls, ceilings, and floors, which act as barriers to slow down the spread of flames, heat, and smoke.

By keeping the fire confined to one compartment, passive fire protection helps protect escape routes, allows more time for evacuation, and supports the work of the emergency services.

Active fire protection involves systems that detect and react to a fire, such as sprinklers and alarms, while passive fire protection is built into the structure of a building to limit the spread of flames and smoke.

Passive fire protection works by creating fire-resistant barriers that compartmentalise a building, using elements like fire-rated doors, walls, ceilings, and floors. It also includes firestopping measures, which seal around service penetrations such as pipes, ducts, and cables to prevent fire from spreading through gaps and voids in compartment lines.

Together, active and passive systems are vital for safeguarding occupants, protecting escape routes, and helping to bring a fire under control.

The rules for passive fire protection involve compliance with building codes and fire safety regulations, which dictate the materials and construction techniques required to achieve fire resistance.

These rules ensure that components like fire-resistant walls, doors, floors, and penetration seals are installed correctly and meet specific ratings. Regular inspections and maintenance are also essential to ensure that passive fire protection measures remain effective over time, helping to contain fires and protect occupants.

A service penetration is an opening created in walls, floors, or ceilings to allow essential building services like electrical cables, pipes, and ductwork to pass through. These penetrations are often necessary for utilities and mechanical systems but can compromise fire protection if left unsealed.

Properly sealing service penetrations with fire-resistant materials is essential for maintaining the effectiveness of passive fire protection and ensuring that fire does not easily spread through these openings.

A penetration seal is a fire-resistant barrier that fills the gaps around services, such as pipes, ducts, or cables, that pass through walls, floors, or ceilings.

These seals prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases through these openings, maintaining the integrity of fire-rated compartments. By creating a secure barrier, penetration seals contribute to effective passive fire protection by limiting the spread of fire between different areas of a building.