Author: Paolin Li | lipaolin2012@gmail.com
In modern building safety systems, firestopping systems play an indispensable role. They act as the “fire barriers” of a building, effectively preventing the spread of flames, heat, and smoke during a fire, providing crucial protection for the structure. According to research by UL Solutions, firestopping inspections conducted by qualified third-party inspectors not only provide proof of compliance but also significantly reduce delays and costs while greatly enhancing the building’s fire protection capabilities.
In Taiwan, Liansuo Construction Technology Co., Ltd., a leading company in fire and explosion protection, has been committed to providing innovative building safety solutions. As the first and only UL-certified firestop contractor in the country, the company is also the first to receive IAS international certification for firestop inspection services. As a member of the Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA) and the International Firestop Council (IFC), Liansuo continues to exchange the latest technologies and best practices with global peers. The company adheres to principles of fairness and independence, avoiding the provision of both installation and inspection services on the same project, fully reflecting its professionalism and ethical standards.
So, what is firestopping? In simple terms, firestopping is a critical passive fire protection measure designed to prevent the spread of fire through gaps and openings in a building. By using special fire-resistant materials to seal holes and gaps that penetrate the building’s structure, firestopping systems maintain the overall fire integrity of the building. This not only effectively slows the spread of the fire but also creates a safer environment for evacuation and firefighter rescue operations.
Firestopping systems are mainly categorized into three types: penetration firestopping, joint firestopping, and perimeter firestopping. Penetration firestopping is used to seal openings where pipes, cables, etc., pass through fire-resistant walls or floors; joint firestopping is used to fill the joints between building structures; and perimeter firestopping is specifically designed to fill the gap between curtain walls and floors. Each type of firestopping system is designed and installed to block specific fire spread paths within the building, ensuring optimal fire protection performance.
From a regulatory perspective, Chapter 7 of the International Building Code (IBC) explicitly mandates the application and standards for firestopping systems. Meanwhile, the AC98 certification standard developed by IAS further regulates the quality requirements for firestopping inspections, providing reliable protection for building safety.
Performance testing standards for firestopping systems primarily include ASTM E814/UL 1479 (for penetration firestop performance), ASTM E1966/UL 2079 (for joint firestop performance), and ASTM E2307 (for perimeter joint firestop testing between curtain walls and floors). These tests cover various aspects such as fire resistance, heat transfer, smoke and toxic gas leakage, and water testing, comprehensively evaluating the effectiveness of firestopping systems.
In practical application, firestopping inspections are equally crucial. ASTM E2174 and ASTM E2393 are two key inspection standards that address installed firestopping systems and joint firestop systems, respectively. These standards require visual inspections or destructive testing of a certain percentage of systems to ensure installation quality and performance meet the requirements.
Firestopping inspections typically include steps such as document review, material verification, witnessing the installation process, post-completion inspection, and report preparation. During the inspection process, common issues such as insufficient materials or inadequate installation depth may arise, which must be addressed using correct installation methods and material use.
Regular firestopping inspections are essential for building safety. Not only do they effectively prevent the spread of flames and smoke, but they also provide an important protective barrier for the building. Incorporating firestopping into the building’s safety management system is a core element of modern fire protection design and management, ensuring the long-term safety of the building.
In the increasingly complex world of modern architecture, the importance of firestopping systems cannot be overstated. Through professional installation, regular inspections, and timely maintenance, we can build a solid fire barrier for buildings, creating safer living and working environments for people. As an industry leader, Liansuo Construction Technology will continue to strive to provide the highest standards of firestopping solutions, contributing to building safety in Taiwan and around the world.
