Prevent fire penetration by sealing openings and penetrations!

23-01-2018

Seals are nothing more than holes that are sometimes fitted with installations (penetrations), in walls and floors. If this wall or floor is also a compartment barrier, a fire could spread rapidly through the building. In addition to the spread of fire, smoke leakage also plays a critical role in buildings. Smoke inhalation is potentially deadly: it is an asphyxiant. A fire compartment is intended to counteract the free penetration of smoke and flames for a certain period of time.

European Standard
In Europe, building fire safety is subject to strict requirements. Thus, special requirements apply to each building function. Requirements for a residential function differ from those for an office function, for instance. Certified fire-resistant products meet the European standards; for penetrations, this is EN 1366-3.

Fire resistance in minutes
Walls and floors must meet fire resistance ratings of 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes under certain circumstances. Depending on the building function, a higher fire resistance may be required. Penetrations that pass through compartment walls must have at least the same fire resistance rating.

Firestops
Various methods are available to seal penetrations. The material of the penetration, in particular, determines the sealing method. For instance, steel and copper pipes must be insulated to reduce thermal conductivity. Penetrations made from plastic must be sealed with an intumescent product.

GUse the Multiselector to find a tested firestop for your project.