Passive fire protection is an important aspect of building construction. Whether a residential home or a commercial building, passive fire protection measures help prevent the spread of fire and smoke and keep people safe. Passive fire protection methods include fire-proofing walls and barriers. They also help prevent fire from spreading through ductwork.
Accredited organizations test passive fire protection systems to ensure compliance with fire safety codes. They are rated according to their fire, smoke, and temperature resistance. Some systems also feature a “W” rating, indicating that they can resist water leakage. Fire safety is an important consideration, but shortcuts in passive fire protection can compromise building compliance.
Passive fire protection systems help limit the damage caused by fire and give people enough time to evacuate. They include firewalls, egress path markers, and fire doors. Fire doors compartmentalize a building and prevent the spread of fire through ductwork. Photoluminescent egress path markers, fire dampers, and other passive fire protection measures can help you protect your building and your belongings.
