Protection of Openings

High frequency of failure in buildings

• Typical forms of protection include: firestopping (concealed spaces), fire-resistive construction, fire doors, wired glass.
• Holes made in the floor/ceiling to allow passage of cables, conduits, pipes, etc. also permit extension of fire from one floor to another. These gaps should be filled. One common method is a foamed-in-place fire resistant silicone elastomer that expands and seals the penetration.
• Stair enclosures, elevator shafts, utility shafts, and chutes for packages, laundry or trash should be enclosed in fire-resistive construction.
• Wall openings (stair enclosure/elevator shafts) must be protected by rated self or automatic closing fire doors.
• Corridors must be protected to prevent horizontal spread of combustion products and because they are a means of egress for occupants. (Usually require I hour fire resistance protection).
• Fire doors are given an hourly rating (3, 1 1/2, 1, 3/4, 1/2, 1/3) and the openings they are placed in are given an alphabetical designation (A, B. C, D, E) in accordance with the character and location of the wall.
• There are several types of door construction, look for identification if not sure.
• Ensure fire doors are not obstructed, blocked, or intentionally wedged open so that self closing is not possible.
• Fire shutters are used if potential fire exposure from outside the building is present. (Typically only found in older buildings).
• Wired glass may be used in some fire doors. Steel wiring distributes heat, lowers thermal stress, and increases strength. Allows vision in fire doors. Will crack, but will not open up.
• Be alert for situations in which plain window glass may have been used to replace broken wired glass.

           
INDEX Protection of Openings

FPT 102 - Fire Prevention and Inspection // Instructor: Kevin M. Kolb        Slide #2