Firestopping is the process of containing a fire and its by-products. This is accomplished by sealing the penetrations in fire-rated walls, floors, and floor/ceiling assemblies.

The best firestopping approach is a balanced one, consisting of detection, containment, and suppression.

• 3/4 of all fire deaths are caused by smoke inhalation;
• Approximately 57% of people killed in fires are not in the room of the fire's origin;
• Visibility — 47% of survivors caught in a fire could not see more than 12 feet;
• Smoke travels 120-420 feet per minute under fire conditions.

Just how fast does smoke travel? Consider this: a 20-ft square room has a pencil-sized hole between compartments. In 3 minutes and 40 seconds, smoke is so thick that you will be unable to see your hand at eighteen inches.

Smoke and fire most commonly spread through unsealed pipe penetrations & ducts, unsealed or open joints, doors & windows, and unsealed cable penetrations.

Firestop products work in two different ways. One way is when intumescence expand on in the presence of heat. The other mode is as a non-expanding caulk. Through-penetration firestop products fill the voids around penetrating items in fire-rated floors and walls.

Common practice dictates that firestop installation is the responsibility of the subcontractor that made the penetration into fire-rated construction. However, as subcontractor accountability is difficult to maintain, professional firestop contractors are becoming a more attractive option. A single source of responsibility means less needed coordination and thus, less chance for error. Each individual trade will be able to focus solely on their area of expertise.

As a Hilti® accredited firestop contractor, our team will ensure proper installation and documentation of all firestop material. Enersave Systems will efficiently finish your project correctly, the first time.

Section 07841 >> Through Penetration Firestop Systems

Section 07842 >> Fire Resistive Joint Systems