Fire-Stopping Products: Building Safety and Compliance
At Lyons Fire Safety, we understand the critical importance of fire-stopping products in safeguarding buildings and occupants. Fire-stopping products are vital components of passive fire protection systems, designed to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases through openings in fire-rated walls and floors.
As experts in fire door inspections, maintenance, installations, we are committed to ensuring that our clients stay compliant with UK building regulations while protecting lives and property.
In this page, we will explore the key aspects of fire-stopping products, their importance, the different types available, and how you can choose the right solutions for your building. Whether you are a contractor, building manager, or property owner, understanding fire-stopping products is crucial for maintaining safety and meeting regulatory requirements.
What Are Fire-Stopping Products?
Fire-stopping products are materials used to seal gaps and openings in fire-rated walls, floors, and ceilings. These gaps could be caused by penetrations such as pipes, cables, and ducts, or by construction joints and perimeter gaps. Fire-stopping products are designed to create barriers that prevent the passage of fire, smoke, and toxic gases, ensuring that fire is contained within its compartment and does not spread to other areas of the building.
These products form a critical part of a building’s fire strategy, especially in large or complex buildings where compartmentalisation is essential to the safe evacuation of occupants and the containment of a blaze. Fire-stopping products also protect structural elements, providing more time for firefighting teams to control the fire and for occupants to evacuate safely.
By engaging with LFS, you benefit from:
- Expert Guidance: Our team selects the best fire-stopping products and installation methods for your project.
- Complete Documentation: Every step is recorded, logged, and inspected, providing irrefutable evidence of compliance.
- Streamlined Compliance: Our process ensures you meet the requirements of Regulation 38 and BS 9999.
Why Are Fire-Stopping Products Important?
Fire-stopping products are vital for multiple reasons, including:
- Preventing the Spread of Fire: They maintain the integrity of fire-rated barriers, such as walls and floors, ensuring that fire does not spread between rooms or floors.
- Providing Time for Evacuation: By slowing down the spread of fire and smoke, these products provide valuable time for building occupants to evacuate safely.
- Enhancing Firefighting Efforts: They allow firefighters to control the fire more effectively by containing it within designated compartments.
- Ensuring Regulatory Compliance: Fire-stopping products are essential for meeting UK fire safety regulations and building standards, helping building owners avoid penalties and legal risks.
- Protecting Property: These products reduce the risk of extensive property damage in the event of a fire by limiting its spread.
Types of Fire-Stopping Products
Several fire-stopping products are commonly used in construction and fit-out projects. Each product serves a specific purpose, depending on the application, penetration size, and fire-resistance rating required.
1. Intumescent Sealants and Mastics
Intumescent sealants expand when exposed to heat, forming a char that effectively seals gaps. These products are used around pipes, cables, and joints, preventing fire from passing through small openings.
- Example: FS709 HP – A high-expansion graphite-based intumescent sealant.
2. Fire-Resistant Mortars and Compounds
Fire-resistant mortars and compounds are designed to fill larger openings in walls and floors. These products are ideal for sealing large penetrations and ensuring that fire does not pass through.
- Example: FF197 – A fire-rated polyurethane foam.
3. Fire-Rated Boards and Panels
Fire-rated boards and panels are used to protect structural elements by creating rigid barriers against fire. These are often used in high-risk areas where additional protection is needed.
- Example: FB750 Intubatt – A lightweight fire barrier with an ablative coating.
- Example: FB770 Intudeck – A rock mineral fibre board designed for quick installation.
4. Fire Collars and Wraps
Fire collars and wraps are specifically designed for plastic pipes. They expand when exposed to heat, sealing the pipe and preventing fire from spreading through the pipework.
- Example: Fire collars for plastic pipe installations.
5. Cavity Barriers
Cavity barriers are used to seal open state cavities, particularly around windows and doors. They are designed to stop the spread of smoke and fire between compartments.
- Example: FV125 – A large ventilated cavity barrier.
- Example: FJ260 – A cavity barrier designed for use around windows and doors.
6. Firestop Pillows and Putties
Pillows and putties are pliable materials used to seal small penetrations or areas that require frequent access. These products are ideal for temporary sealing, offering flexibility when access is needed.
- Example: Firestop pillows.
Applications of Fire-Stopping Products
Fire-stopping products are applied in a variety of situations to ensure the fire integrity of a building. Common applications include:
- Penetrations for Pipes, Cables, and Conduits: Fire-stopping materials seal openings around pipes, cables, and electrical conduits, preventing fire from spreading through these service penetrations.
- Construction Joints Between Walls, Floors, and Ceilings: Gaps in construction joints can compromise fire protection, so fire-stopping products are used to seal them and maintain fire-resistance ratings.
- Perimeter Gaps Around Fire-Rated Doors and Windows: Sealing perimeter gaps around fire-rated doors and windows ensures that fire cannot pass through these essential barriers.
- Service Penetrations in Fire-Rated Walls and Floors: Penetrations made for services such as air conditioning or water pipes must be sealed to maintain the integrity of fire-rated walls and floors.
Fire-Stopping Standards and Regulations
In the UK, fire-stopping products must comply with several building and fire safety regulations. These regulations ensure that fire-stopping materials are effective and meet the required performance standards.
- Building Regulations (Approved Document B): Specifies the fire safety requirements for buildings, including the use of fire-stopping products to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
- BS 476: Fire tests on building materials and structures, which outlines the testing criteria for fire resistance.
- EN 1366: Fire resistance tests for service installations, providing guidelines for how fire-stopping materials must be tested for specific installations.
Fire-stopping products must be tested to specific fire-resistance ratings, often expressed in terms of hours (e.g., 1-hour or 2-hour fire resistance). Compliance with these standards is necessary to ensure the safety of occupants and protect property from fire damage.
Correct Installation of Fire-Stopping Products
The correct installation of fire-stopping products is crucial for their effectiveness. Products should always be installed by trained professionals, who must follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper sealing and fire resistance.
Incorrect installation can compromise the integrity of fire barriers, rendering fire-stopping products ineffective. In the UK, many contractors now require third-party accredited installers to ensure the quality and compliance of fire-stopping systems.
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Fire-stopping systems require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their continued effectiveness. Inspections should be carried out at least once a year or following any significant building modifications, such as renovations or alterations to fire-rated compartments. It’s important to promptly repair any damage or deterioration, such as cracks, gaps, or wear caused by construction activities.
Maintaining proper documentation of inspections and maintenance is essential for building safety records and demonstrating compliance with UK fire safety regulations.
Choosing the Right Fire-Stopping Product
Selecting the right fire-stopping product depends on various factors, including:
- Specific Application: Each product is designed for different types of openings or service penetrations, so understanding the needs of your project is essential.
- Size and Type of Penetration: Larger penetrations may require more robust solutions, such as fire-resistant mortars, while smaller gaps may only require sealants or putties.
- Fire-Resistance Rating: The required level of fire protection, usually specified in terms of hours, will determine which product is suitable for your project.
- Substrate Material: The type of material surrounding the penetration, such as concrete or plasterboard, will affect product selection.
- Compliance with Standards: Make sure that the chosen products comply with UK building regulations and fire safety standards.
The Risks of Inadequate Fire Stopping
Failing to install adequate fire-stopping products can have serious consequences, including:
- Rapid Fire Spread: Without effective fire-stopping, fire can spread quickly through openings, compromising the entire building.
- Increased Risk to Occupants: Inadequate fire barriers reduce evacuation time, putting occupants at greater risk.
- Property Damage: Poor fire-stopping allows fire and smoke to travel, causing more extensive damage to property and assets.
- Non-Compliance with Regulations: Failure to meet building regulations can result in penalties, fines, or legal action against building owners and managers.
Partnering with Lyons Fire Safety
At Lyons Fire Safety, we provide expert fire-stopping solutions that ensure the safety and compliance of your building. Our services include:
- Comprehensive Fire Protection Solutions: We offer a range of fire-stopping products for all types of buildings, ensuring effective protection against fire spread.
- Expertise in UK Regulations: We are well-versed in UK fire safety standards and building regulations, ensuring your project meets all necessary compliance requirements.
- Installation and Maintenance: Our experienced team ensures that fire-stopping products are correctly installed and maintained to maximise effectiveness.
- Regular Inspections and Documentation: We provide thorough inspections and maintain accurate documentation to keep your building in compliance with safety standards.
By choosing Lyons Fire Safety as your fire safety partner, you can be confident that your building is protected against the risks of fire and smoke, ensuring the safety of occupants and reducing the risk of property damage.
Get in Touch for Expert Fire Safety Services
Take the first step in protecting your property and its occupants by contacting Lyons Fire Safety for expert fire-stopping solutions. Our team is here to support you with compliant, effective fire-stopping systems and provide peace of mind through regular inspections and maintenance.
To schedule a fire door solutions or discuss fire-stopping methods for your building, get in touch today:
- Phone: 0121 517 0562
- Email: david@lyonsfiresafety.co.uk
Fire-stopping Products - (FAQs)
What is the difference between fire-resistant sealants and fire-resistant mortars?
Fire-resistant sealants are typically used for smaller openings and joints, while fire-resistant mortars are designed for larger openings in walls or floors. Sealants expand when exposed to heat, whereas mortars are solid and rigid.
How often should fire-stopping systems be inspected?
Fire-stopping systems should be inspected at least once a year or after significant changes to the building. Inspections should also be carried out following incidents that may affect the integrity of the fire protection system.
Can fire-stopping products be installed by non-professionals?
It is recommended that fire-stopping products be installed by trained professionals. Incorrect installation can compromise the fire resistance of the system.
What are the consequences of inadequate fire-stopping?
Inadequate fire-stopping can lead to rapid fire spread, putting occupants at risk and causing extensive property damage. It can also result in non-compliance with fire safety regulations.
Are fire-stopping products compliant with UK regulations?
Yes, fire-stopping products must comply with UK fire safety regulations, such as Approved Document B and BS 476, ensuring they meet required fire-resistance ratings.
How often should fire-stopping be inspected?
At least annually, or after any building works that may affect it.
Who is responsible for ensuring fire-stopping is adequate?
The “responsible person” for the building, as defined by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This could be the building owner, manager, or occupier.
What are the different fire-resistance ratings?
Ratings are expressed in minutes (e.g., EI 30, EI 60, EI 120) and indicate the time a product can resist fire and smoke spread.
Can I install fire-stopping products myself?
We strongly recommend using trained and accredited professionals for installation to ensure compliance and effectiveness. Such as our team, here at LFS.
Why is third-party accreditation important for fire-stopping installers?
It demonstrates that installers have the necessary training, skills, and competence to install fire-stopping products correctly and in accordance with regulations.