This is the third post in our five-part educational series on firestopping and life safety.
When contractors install network cables, fiber optics, security cameras or access control wiring, they may need to penetrate fire-rated walls and floors. There isn't one firestop product that works for every situation. Different penetrations require different tested and approved firestop systems. Here are five common approaches you may see in commercial buildings.
1. Firestop sealants
Specially formulated sealants used in listed systems around cables, conduits and other penetrations. They may be designed to expand when exposed to heat or provide other fire-resistive properties.
2. Firestop putty and putty pads
Certain firestop putties are used in penetration systems, while listed putty pads can protect electrical boxes in specific fire-rated wall assemblies.
3. Intumescent wraps and collars
Materials that expand when exposed to high temperatures. They are commonly used in systems involving combustible pipes and certain other penetrants. As the heat softens or burns away the pipe, the expanding material helps close the opening.
4. Firestop blocks and pillows
Removable or reconfigurable firestop materials used in certain cable and service penetrations. Manufactured firestop pillows, for example, can allow future cable changes, provided they are put back the way the listed system requires.
5. Fire-rated cable pathway devices
Designed for communications cables. Certain listed devices allow cables to be added or removed without rebuilding a conventional seal, subject to system requirements. That can suit a closet or corridor wall where cable changes are expected.
Where cheap can become expensive
A contractor may use whatever red sealant or foam happens to be available. But just because a product is labeled "firestop" doesn't mean it's approved for every opening. The correct system depends on the wall or floor construction, the opening size, the cables or conduits passing through it and the applicable tested-system requirements.
The question to ask
"How do you determine which firestop system is appropriate for each penetration?"
It's not just about filling the hole. It's about maintaining the required fire protection of the building. To see the cabling work we do, visit our computer network cabling page.
Information is provided for general education. It is not a substitute for project-specific design, engineering or manufacturer instructions. Always follow applicable codes and listed system requirements. Project requirements should be verified individually.