publishing valuable information and working with
industry professionals to increase awareness of proper
firestop practices. Of course, when it comes to better
understanding the specific code requirements of
an individual construction project, always contact
the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). The
code official has a clear understanding of building
requirements and experience gained from a multitude
of similar construction projects.
SUMMARY
Firestop systems, not individual firestop products,
achieve ratings based on evaluation to the appropriate
standards described herein. Whether a firestop system
or a firestop product, it is only as effective as the
manner in which it is installed. A good installation
will be consistent with the characteristics described
in the firestop system. A well thought out selection
of a firestop product will ensure the building’s needs
are maintained as the various service elements
are changed or expanded. Unfortunately, a firestop
system can be rendered ineffective if installed
or reinstalled improperly. Installation practices
considered improper include inappropriate mixing
of products, using materials other than those tested as
part of a firestop system, not following the parameters
of a firestop system, and penetrations that are not
protected at all or where protection has been removed
or reduced over time. Such a system has no integrity
and presents a safety hazard, rather than being
an important component of a building’s life-safety
system with a strong offensive line.
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY: Justin Pine, RCDD is a Project
Engineer and Product Specialist with Specified Technologies Inc.
He currently volunteers for BICSI's TI&M committee and serves
as a Subject Matter Expert Technical Lead for Firestopping.
Justin can be reached at JPine@STIFirestop.com.
REFERENCES:
1. UL , Residential Furnishings Side by Side, https://www.youtube.
com/watch?v=LsReYgKpHbE
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