Selecting the appropriate firestopping system requires careful consideration beyond traditional installation methods.
It needs the precision and dedication of those involved in the design of a project to put life safety ahead of cost.
Because, should a fire break out, the firestopping is the only barrier between the fire and the non-fire side; it’s the line that separates safety from risk.
Ultimately, when the correct products are installed in line with the relevant test evidence, the fire will be contained to its area of origin for as long as fire tested.
This gives that crucial time for the fire and rescue service to arrive at the scene, tackle the fire, and rescue trapped residents.
But choosing the right system can be complex when faced with a wide range of test evidence and products.
In this knowledge hub article, we outline practical steps to assist you in selecting a compliant firestop solution for new build projects.
1. Understand the project
It’s important to first understand the project requirements. What we mean by this is the fire strategy requirements, such as fire ratings and, to some extent, the placement of fire-rated walls and floors.
At this stage, factors like the choice of services, insulation, or even the type of wall or floor construction should only be project desirables.
2. View the project holistically
To view the project holistically, you need to take a step back and start to determine specifics – where will the firestopping system be used? Will it be on a wall, floor, or floor-ceiling assembly, for instance?
You’ll also need to determine if you’re sealing around electrical conduits, data cables, ductwork, plumbing, or structural penetrations, as each service has unique fire-related requirements and behaviours.
For example, a plastic pipe penetrating a concrete wall may require a fire collar, while a bundle of cables may be better suited to sealant or fire pillows.
Please note that the listed products are not the only suitable solutions – refer to our standard tested detail library for additional information.
Once specifics like the type of pipes, insulation, walls, and floors have been decided, the next step is to decide how these services will penetrate the wall or floor.
Will the installer drill a hole and apply a direct-to-wall seal, or create a letterbox opening and seal the gap with fire batt or compound?
It’s important that all parties understand how the penetration should be carried out, ensuring it is feasible.
Key requirements:
- Size of seal
- Size of services
- Service supports
- Buildability
- The combined cross-sectional area of services (including insulation), as a guide, should not exceed the test evidence
3. Engage early with the relevant manufacturer
It’s then time to engage with the appropriate firestopping manufacturer to identify the available tested solutions.
The manufacturer needs as much specific information as possible, such as the type of pipes, cables, insulation, and the wall or floor material you want to meet the fire rating.
The most important thing to note here is to always choose a firestopping system that is clearly backed by primary test evidence. This is the only way to ensure the products will work as intended in the event of a fire.
4. Be flexible
Choosing the correct firestopping system relies on you engaging early and having a level of flexibility.
For example, if there are no tested solutions for the chosen insulation, you will need to consider alternative tested options.
This allows for any grey areas to be addressed at the stage of the project where plans are what they are – plans!
Choosing the correct firestopping system
The protection of people and property relies on effective firestopping, and that all starts with a choice. The choice to make fire safety a priority by selecting the correct, tested products.
Don’t take chances; collaborate early with the relevant parties and a suitable manufacturer so that you can build with confidence and live with peace of mind.
Find detailed guidance in our White Paper on Early Engagement in Firestopping.
