ASTM E3157-23

Standard Guide for Understanding and Using Information Related to Installation of Firestop Systems

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The information contained in this guide is general in nature because of: the great number of commercially available firestop systems globally; the quantity and variety of internationally published firestop system’s listings; worldwide variations in building and fire code requirements; and the many conditions and applications associated with a firestop system’s use.  
4.2 This guide provides general information and guidance that is primarily used by firestop contractors and firestop industry inspectors of a firestop system. However, this guide should also be used by others, such as architects, engineers, specifiers, etc. Some of the information referenced in this guide provides resources for additional information not contained in the manufacturer’s installations, the firestop system’s test report, and listing. Information contained in this guide also allows a single source for a general comparison of firestop materials used during the installation of firestop systems.  
4.3 This guide discusses general procedures, such as substrate cleaning and priming, as well as installation of the components of a firestop system.
Note 2: The term “substrate” has a particular meaning in engineering. A substrate is defined as the “basic surface on which a material adheres, for example, paint or laminate.”21  
4.4 This guide explains the general properties and functions of various penetrating items and firestop materials.  
4.5 This guide presents general guidelines for the application of the various materials used in the installation of a firestop system for a specific application, and environmental conditions and effects that are known to potentially affect a firestop system’s installation.  
4.6 This guide is intended to be read completely at least once, and each of the Sections 1 through 19 should be read in their entirety to avoid misunderstanding and misapplication.  
4.7 This guide may22 also provide some value to users of IMO Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and ot...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide is a compendium of information related to installing firestop systems in fire-separating elements. This guide is intended to be used to increase industry knowledge of national and international testing requirements, code prerequisites, and other supplemental tests that may be specified, which can affect the installation and performance of firestop systems.  
1.2 This guide relates to the use of firestop systems tested, or evaluated, to Test Method E814 and other test methods addressing the same specific subject matter, such as CAN/ULC-S115; EN 1366-3; IMO Resolution MSC.307(88), FTP Code; IEEE 634; ISO 10295-1; UL 1479; etc.  
1.3 This guide also addresses the use of firestop systems tested or evaluated to Test Methods E119 or other test methods that use a firestop system as a component of a typically larger test assembly, such as AS 1530.4; BS 476-21; BS 476;3 CAN/ULC-S101; ISO 834;4 NFPA 251; UL 263; etc.  
1.4 This guide discusses the installation of firestop systems in membrane penetrations and through penetrations. The installation is typically performed by a firestop contractor (also known as a firestop installer or an installer). However, the quality of the installation is based on the information provided to the firestop contractor as well as the expertise and competence of the firestop contractor. A lack of information in the test report, listing, manufacturer’s instructions, or project documents can be the cause of a deficient installation.  
1.5 The term “firestop system” refers to and includes both a membrane-penetration firestop system and through-penetration firestop system.  
1.6 Information in this guide is applicable to firestop systems that accommodate single or multiple penetrating items.  
1.7 This guide does not address the design aspects of locating and defining the dimensions of an opening; or the method to create the opening; or the inspection of the penetrating item prior to ...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Jul-2023
• ICS: 13.220.50 - Fire-resistance of building materials and elements
• ICS: 29.060.20 - Cables
• Technical Committee: E06 - Performance of Buildings
• Drafting Committee: E06.21 - Serviceability

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E136-24a - Standard Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 °C
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM E136-24 - Standard Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 °C
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM E176-24 - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM E2837-23a - Standard Test Method for Determining the Fire Resistance of Continuity Head-of-Wall Joint Systems Installed Between Rated Wall Assemblies and Nonrated Horizontal Assemblies
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E2226-23a - Standard Practice for Application of Hose Stream
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E84-23d - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E2307-23b - Standard Test Method for Determining Fire Resistance of Perimeter Fire Barriers Using Intermediate-Scale, Multi-story Test Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM E2226-23 - Standard Practice for Application of Hose Stream
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2023
• Refers: ASTM E84-23c - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM E2174-20a - Standard Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Firestop Systems
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E2174-20 - Standard Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Firestops
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3037-19 - Standard Test Method for Measuring Relative Movement Capabilities of Through-Penetration Firestop Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM E119-19 - Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM E2923-14(2019) - Standard Practice for Longevity Assessment of Firestop Materials Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM E2786-10(2019) - Standard Test Methods for Measuring Expansion of Intumescent Materials Used in Firestop and Joint Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019

Overview

ASTM E3157-23: Standard Guide for Understanding and Using Information Related to Installation of Firestop Systems is a comprehensive resource developed by ASTM International. This guide addresses the complexities associated with the installation of firestop systems within fire-separating elements, providing practical and general guidance for professionals in construction, inspection, and design. The document caters to the global diversity in firestop products, building codes, and construction methods, making it a valuable tool for firestop contractors, inspectors, architects, engineers, and specifiers seeking consistent terminology, procedures, and evaluation criteria for firestop installations.

Key Topics

• General Guidance for Firestop Systems:
  The standard offers high-level recommendations and information on the use and installation of firestop systems and materials. Its broad scope reflects the numerous commercially available firestop solutions and the varied requirements found in national and international building codes.

• Terminology and Definitions:
  The guide establishes common terms for the firestop industry, harmonizing language based on international standards and building codes. Terms like fire-resistive joint system, membrane penetration, and through-penetration firestop system are clarified, aiding consistent understanding across jurisdictions.

• Installation Procedures:
  Guidance is provided on general procedures essential to firestop installation, such as cleaning and priming substrates, proper application of materials, and addressing issues around single or multiple penetrations. The guide underlines the significance of adhering to manufacturer instructions, test reports, listings, and established best practices.

• Evaluation and Comparison:
  ASTM E3157-23 serves as a consolidated source to compare firestop materials and systems, assisting in the selection of appropriate solutions in cases where project conditions change or information gaps exist in technical documents.

• Supplemental Resources:
  The guide references additional resources for detailed performance criteria, environmental factors affecting installation, and system longevity, including ASTM and international test methods.

Applications

ASTM E3157-23 supports professionals involved in:

• Construction and Installation:

  • Firestop contractors and installers rely on guidance for preparing openings, selecting compatible materials, and correctly installing firestop systems to maintain fire-resistance ratings.
  • Building trades that create or manage penetrations in fire-separating elements benefit from understanding the requirements for proper sealing.

• Inspection and Compliance:

  • Firestop system inspectors use the guide to support consistent evaluation of installed systems, referencing the appropriate standards and clarifying the expectations of authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs).
  • The guide is particularly valuable where listings, project documents, or manufacturer information are incomplete or where international code alignment is required.

• Design and Specification:

  • Architects, engineers, and specifiers can use the standard to gain awareness of testing requirements and performance factors, ensuring their project designs are compliant and that installation information is effectively communicated.

• Global Construction Projects:

  • International projects benefit from the guide’s reference to both national and global codes and standards, supporting cross-border consistency and regulatory compliance.

Related Standards

ASTM E3157-23 references and is complemented by a range of national and international standards, including:

• ASTM E814: Fire Tests of Penetration Firestop Systems
• ASTM E119: Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
• UL 1479, CAN/ULC-S115, EN 1366-3, ISO 10295-1: Firestop system test methods
• E2174, E2393: Practices for inspection of installed firestop systems and fire-resistive joint systems
• International Codes: ICC International Building Code (IBC), IMO Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), and others

By referencing these standards, ASTM E3157-23 reinforces best practices in firestop system installation and supports the safety, performance, and code compliance of fire-resistive assemblies globally.

Keywords: ASTM E3157-23, firestop systems, firestop installation, building code compliance, fire barriers, through-penetrations, membrane-penetrations, construction safety, international firestop standards, inspection of firestops.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E3157 − 23
Standard Guide for
Understanding and Using Information Related to Installation
of Firestop Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3157; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
This guide should increase the awareness of information and approaches associated with installing
firestop systems. Various building trades (also known as construction trades) create openings (breaches
or penetrations) in fire-separating elements to accommodate the installation of existing or future
penetrating items such as pipes, ducts, wires, etc. The materials and methods of construction used to
seal and protect openings created in fire-separating elements must not reduce its existing fire-
resistance rating. Multiple building trades are sometimes involved with the process of restoring the
fire-resistance rating of the fire-separating element. Often the building trade (for example, firestop
contractor) responsible for restoring the fire-resistance rating of the fire-separating element did not
create the opening. This guide is intended to help identify and alleviate problems as well as
misunderstandings associated with the installation of firestop systems. This guide is intended to
provide information to those that create the opening, install the penetrating item through the opening,
install firestop materials for the opening, and those charged with the inspection of the firestop system
during and after installation. This guide proposes a series of options or instructions that offer direction
without recommending a definite course of action for the installation of firestop systems.
1. Scope test assembly, such as AS 1530.4; BS 476-21; BS 476;
CAN/ULC-S101; ISO 834; NFPA 251; UL 263; etc.
1.1 This guide is a compendium of information related to
1.4 This guide discusses the installation of firestop systems
installing firestop systems in fire-separating elements. This
guide is intended to be used to increase industry knowledge of in membrane penetrations and through penetrations. The
installation is typically performed by a firestop contractor (also
national and international testing requirements, code
prerequisites, and other supplemental tests that may be known as a firestop installer or an installer). However, the
specified, which can affect the installation and performance of quality of the installation is based on the information provided
firestop systems. to the firestop contractor as well as the expertise and compe-
tence of the firestop contractor. A lack of information in the test
1.2 This guide relates to the use of firestop systems tested, or
report, listing, manufacturer’s instructions, or project docu-
evaluated, to Test Method E814 and other test methods
ments can be the cause of a deficient installation.
addressing the same specific subject matter, such as CAN/
ULC-S115; EN 1366-3; IMO Resolution MSC.307(88), FTP 1.5 The term “firestop system” refers to and includes both a
membrane-penetration firestop system and through-penetration
Code; IEEE 634; ISO 10295-1; UL 1479; etc.
firestop system.
1.3 This guide also addresses the use of firestop systems
1.6 Information in this guide is applicable to firestop sys-
tested or evaluated to Test Methods E119 or other test methods
tems that accommodate single or multiple penetrating items.
that use a firestop system as a component of a typically larger
1.7 This guide does not address the design aspects of
locating and defining the dimensions of an opening; or the
method to create the opening; or the inspection of the penetrat-
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on Performance
of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.21 on Service-
ing item prior to firestop material installation. However,
ability.
Current edition approved July 15, 2023. Published August 2023. Originally
approved in 2019. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as E3157 – 22. DOI:
10.1520/E3157-23. In this guide, BS 476–21 and BS 476–22 are collectively referred to as BS 476.
2 4
“Should” is used to indicate that a provision is not mandatory but is In this guide, ISO 834-1, ISO 834-4, ISO 834-5, ISO 834-6, ISO 834-8, and
recommended as good practice. ISO 834-9 are collectively referred to as ISO 834.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3157 − 23
locating and defining the dimensions of an opening and the mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
method to create the opening are critical to a firestop system’s Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
installation.
2. Referenced Documents
1.8 This guide does not address all the test methods needed
2.1 ASTM Standards:
to address proper performance of all firestop systems or firestop
C717 Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
materials.
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
NOTE 1—For example, IEEE 848 provides information on the ampacity
Building Materials
derating of cables that are protected by firestop systems using IEEE 835 as
E119 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction
baseline information.
and Materials
1.9 This guide does not address all the test methods needed
E136 Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials
to address proper performance of firestop systems in all
Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 °C
installations. For a specific application of a firestop system one
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
or more of the following are consulted when available:
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
1.9.1 The firestop system’s test report or listing;
E814 Test Method for Fire Tests of Penetration Firestop
1.9.2 The manufacturer’s instructions when they are not in
Systems
conflict with the firestop system’s test report or listing; or
E1529 Test Methods for Determining Effects of Large Hy-
1.9.3 A judgment with justifiable technical rationale pre-
drocarbon Pool Fires on Structural Members and Assem-
pared based on a firestop system’s test report or listing. blies
E1966 Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
1.10 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be re-
E2032 Practice for Extension of Data From Fire Resistance
garded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
Tests Conducted in Accordance with ASTM E 119
mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
E2174 Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Firestop
information only and are not considered standard.
Systems
1.11 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
E2226 Practice for Application of Hose Stream
which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
E2307 Test Method for Determining Fire Resistance of
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
Perimeter Fire Barriers Using Intermediate-Scale, Multi-
as requirements of the standard.
story Test Apparatus
1.12 This guide offers an organized collection of informa-
E2393 Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Fire
tion or a series of options and does not recommend a specific
Resistive Joint Systems and Perimeter Fire Barriers
course of action. This document cannot replace education or
E2750 Guide for Extension of Data from Penetration Fire-
experience and should be used in conjunction with professional
stop System Tests Conducted in Accordance with ASTM
judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all
E814
circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to repre-
E2785 Test Method for Exposure of Firestop Materials to
sent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of
Severe Environmental Conditions
a given professional service must be judged, nor should this
E2786 Test Methods for Measuring Expansion of Intumes-
document be applied without consideration of a project’s many
cent Materials Used in Firestop and Joint Systems
unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this
E2837 Test Method for Determining the Fire Resistance of
document means only that the document has been approved
Continuity Head-of-Wall Joint Systems Installed Between
through the ASTM consensus process.
Rated Wall Assemblies and Nonrated Horizontal Assem-
1.13 Fire standards, other than ASTM standards, are refer- blies
enced in this document. The following caveat applies to all fire E2923 Practice for Longevity Assessment of Firestop Mate-
standards referenced in this guide. Fire testing is inherently rials Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry
hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property E3021/E3021M Guide for Evaluating the Relative Effective-
shall be employed in conducting these tests. ness of Building Systems to Resist the Passage of Prod-
ucts of Combustion Based on the Aggregation of Leakage
1.14 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Rates
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
E3037 Test Method for Measuring Relative Movement Ca-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
pabilities of Through-Penetration Firestop Systems
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.15 This international standard was developed in accor-
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
the ASTM website.
E3157 − 23
E3038 Practice for Assessing and Qualifying Candidates as 2.9 IEEE Standards:
Inspectors of Firestop Systems and Fire-Resistive Joint IEEE 634 Standard Cable-Penetration Fire Stop Qualifica-
Systems tion Test
IEEE 835 Standard Power Cable Ampacity Tables
2.2 ACI Standard:
IEEE 848 Standard Procedure for the Determination of the
ACI /TMS 216.1 Code Requirements for Determining Fire
Ampacity Derating Factor for Fire-Protected Cable Sys-
Resistance of Concrete and Masonry Construction Assem-
tems
blies
2.3 Standards Australia:
2.10 IMO Standards:
AS 1530.4 Methods for fire tests on building materials,
IMO Resolution A.753 Guidelines for the Application of
components and structures – Part 4: Fire-resistance tests
Plastic Pipes on Ships
of elements of construction
IMO Resolution MSC.307(88) International Code for Appli-
AS 4072.1 Components for the protection of openings in
cation of Fire Test Procedures (FTP Code)
fire-resistant separating elements – Part 1: Service pen-
IMO Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)
etrations and control joints 16
2.11 ISO Standards:
2.4 BSI Standards:
ISO 834-1 Fire-resistance tests – Elements of building con-
BS 476-20 Fire tests on building materials and structures.
struction – Part 1: General requirements
Method for determination of the fire resistance of ele-
ISO 834-4 Fire-resistance tests – Elements of building con-
ments of construction (general principles)
struction – Part 4: Specific requirements for loadbearing
BS 476-21 Fire tests on building materials and structures.
vertical separating elements
Methods for determination of the fire resistance of load-
ISO 834-5 Fire-resistance tests – Elements of building con-
bearing elements of construction
struction – Part 5: Specific requirements for loadbearing
BS 476-22 Fire tests on building materials and structures.
horizontal separating elements
Method for determination of the fire resistance of non-
ISO 834-6 Fire-resistance tests – Elements of building con-
loadbearing elements of construction
struction – Part 6: Specific requirements for beams
2.5 SCC Standards:
ISO 834-8 Fire-resistance tests – Elements of building con-
CAN/ULC-S101 Standard Methods of Fire Endurance Tests
struction – Part 8: Specific requirements for non-
of Building Construction and Materials
loadbearing vertical separating elements
CAN/ULC-S102 Standard Method of Test for Surface Burn-
ISO 834-9 Fire-resistance tests – Elements of building con-
ing Characteristics of Building Materials and Assemblies
struction – Part 9: Specific requirements for non-
CAN/ULC-S115 Standard Method of Fire Tests of Firestop
loadbearing ceiling elements
Systems
ISO 10295-1 Fire tests for building elements and compo-
2.6 CEN Standards:
nents – Fire testing of service installations – Part 1:
EN 1366-3 Fire resistance tests for service installations –
Penetration seals
Part 3: Penetration seals
ISO 10295-2 Fire tests for building elements and compo-
EN 1366-4 Fire resistance tests for service installations –
nents – Fire testing of service installations – Part 2: Linear
Part 4: Linear joint seals
joint (gap) seals
EN 13501-1 Fire classification of construction products and
ISO 17065 Conformity assessment – Requirements for bod-
building elements – Part 1: Classification using data from
ies certifying products, processes and services
reaction to fire tests
2.12 NFPA Standards:
18 18 18
2.7 GA Standard:
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC )
GA-225 Repair of Fire-Rated Gypsum Panel Product Sys-
NFPA 90A Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning
tems
and Ventilating Systems
2.8 ICC Standard:
NFPA 96 Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protec-
13 13
ICC International Building Code (IBC ), 2018 Edition
tion of Commercial Cooking Operations
NFPA 251 Standard Methods of Tests of Fire Endurance of
Building Construction and Materials
Available from American Concrete Institute (ACI), 38800 Country Club Dr.,
NFPA 255 Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning
Farmington Hills, MI 48331-3439, http://www.concrete.org.
Available from Standards Australia, GPO Box 476, Sydney NSW 2001,
Characteristics of Building Materials
Australia, http://www.standards.org.au.
Available from British Standards Institution (BSI), 389 Chiswick High Rd.,
London W4 4AL, United Kingdom, http://www.bsigroup.com.
9 14
Available from Standards Council of Canada (SCC), 55 Metcalfe Street, Suite Available from Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE),
600, Ottawa, ON K1P 6L5, Canada, https://www.scc.ca/. 445 Hoes Ln., Piscataway, NJ 08854-4141, http://www.ieee.org.
10 15
Available from European Committee for Standardization (CEN), CEN- Available from International Maritime Organization (IMO), 4, Albert
CENELEC Management Centre, Rue de la Science 23, B - 1040, Brussels, Belgium, Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, http://www.imo.org.
https://www.cencenelec.eu/. Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
Available from Gypsum Association, 962 Wayne Ave., Suite 620, Silver Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva,
Spring, MD 20910, https://www.gypsum.org. Switzerland, https://www.iso.org.
12 17
Available from International Code Council (ICC), 500 New Jersey Ave., NW, Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, http://www.iccsafe.org. Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
13 18
A registered trademark of International Code Council. A registered trademark of National Fire Protection Association.
E3157 − 23
2.13 UL Standards: 3.1.6.1 Discussion—There are documents that assist in pro-
UL 263 Standard for Fire Tests of Building Construction and ducing sound judgments with justifiable technical rationale.
Materials For example, Guide E2750 provides information to extend the
UL 723 Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteris- results from fire tests conducted in accordance with Test
tics of Building Materials Method E814. Guide E2750 limits the extension of data to a
UL 1479 Standard for Fire Tests of Penetration Firestops single aspect because when more than one aspect is assessed,
the technical rationale becomes much more complicated.
3. Terminology
Judgment is also defined in Practice E2393.
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of general terms related to
3.1.7 membrane-penetration firestop system, n—a firestop
fire used in this guide, refer to Terminology E176. For system that seals the opening provided to accommodate one or
convenience and direct application in this guide, the existing
more items that penetrate the membrane on only one side of a
definitions for a number of general concepts related to firestop fire-resistance rated assembly. E814
systems are as follows:
3.1.7.1 Discussion—Examples of penetrating items include
3.1.1 authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), n—the designated
cables, conduits, ducts, pipes, and electrical boxes.
authority, or their duly authorized representative, charged with
3.1.7.2 Discussion—In the ICC International Building
the administration and enforcement of the local fire code or
Code, a “membrane-penetration firestop system” is defined
building code, or both. E2174
as “an assemblage consisting of a fire-resistance rated floor-
3.1.2 authorizing authority (AA), n—the designated person,
ceiling, roof-ceiling, or wall assembly, one or more penetrating
or organization, or their duly authorized representative,
items installed into or passing through the breach in one side of
charged with the administration and enforcement of the provi-
the assembly and the materials or devices, or both, installed to
sions of this inspection document. E2174
resist the spread of fire into the assembly for a prescribed
period of time.”
3.1.2.1 Discussion—Examples of the AA include the re-
sponsible architect, engineer, building owner, or their repre- 3.1.8 through-penetration firestop system, n—a firestop sys-
sentative. tem that seals the opening around penetrating items that pass
3.1.3 fire-resistive joint system, n—a device or designed through the entire fire-resistance rated assembly. E814
feature that provides a fire separating function along continu-
3.1.8.1 Discussion—Examples of penetrating items include
ous linear openings, including changes in direction, between or
cables, cable trays, conduits, ducts, and pipes.
bounded by fire-separating elements. E1966
3.1.8.2 Discussion—In the ICC International Building
3.1.4 firestop industry inspector, n—the individual or com- 13
Code, a “through-penetration firestop system” is defined as
pany possessing the credentials set forth in Practice E3038, and
“an assemblage consisting of a fire resistance-rated floor,
who is authorized by the AHJ or AA, or both, to conduct an
floor-ceiling, or wall assembly, one or more penetrating items
inspection under Practices E2174 and E2393, or both. E3038
passing through the breaches in both sides of the assembly and
3.1.5 firestop system, n—a specific combination of penetrat-
the materials or devices, or both, installed to resist the spread
ing item or items, the specific construction that is penetrated,
of fire through the assembly for a prescribed period of time.”
and the materials or devices, or both, that seal the opening
3.1.9 For definitions of general terms related to building
provided to accommodate one or more items that penetrate into
construction used in this guide, refer to Terminology E631.
or through a fire-resistance rated assembly. E814
3.1.10 For definitions of general terms related to building
seals and sealants used in this guide, refer to Terminology
3.1.5.1 Discussion—The materials and devices used to seal
C717.
the opening around penetrating items are sometimes referred to
3.1.11 When there is a conflict between terms in Terminol-
as “firestops.” Note that it is not “firestops” that are tested by
ogy E631 and Terminology C717, the terms in Terminology
Test Method E814, but rather “firestop systems.” Due to the
E631 prevail.
complex interaction during a fire between the penetrant, the
3.1.12 When there is a conflict between terms in Terminol-
penetrated assembly, the materials, or devices, or combinations
ogy E176 and Terminology E631 or Terminology C717, the
thereof, used to seal the penetration, and the specific size and
terms in Terminology E176 prevail.
shape of the opening, it is not possible to simply test the
3.1.13 Terms specifically defined in 3.1 and 3.2, whenever
“firestop” to develop fire resistance data.
3.1.5.2 Discussion—The term firestop system refers to and used as intended for this document, are italicized for ease of
identification and reference.
includes both a membrane-penetration firestop system and a
through-penetration firestop system. (See also firestop device, 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
fill material, firestop material, firestop sealant, and forming 3.2.1 Discussion—A number of concepts are discussed in
material.) this guide to help establish a link with the terminology used
3.1.6 judgment, n—an evaluation of a field condition which within some building codes and other national and interna-
does not conform to an existing tested and listed system. tional test standards. This includes, but is not limited to,
E2174
annular space, fire barrier, fire-separating element, horizontal
assembly, membrane penetration, membrane-penetration fire-
stop system, through penetration, and through-penetration
Available from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 14301 SE 1st Street, Suite
140, Vancouver, WA 98684, http://www.ul.com. firestop system.
E3157 − 23
3.2.2 annular space, n—the void around the penetrating ing: fill material, firestop device, firestop sealant, forming
item within an opening. material, packing material, and preformed firestop product.
Firestop materials also include subsets of the preceding
3.2.2.1 Discussion—Annular space is defined in the ICC
defined terms including, but not limited to, the following:
International Building Code as “the opening around the
backing material (9.4.1), bond breakers (9.5.1), firestop collars
penetrating item.”
(11.1), wrap strips (12.2), cable sleeve devices (13.2), firestop
3.2.3 cable fill ratio, n—the amount of cross-sectional area
pillow (14.2), firestop brick (14.2), composite sheet (15.2),
of a cable sleeve device that is occupied by a cable(s).
firestop putty (16.3), mortar (17.3), and firestop foam (18.3).
3.2.9 firestop sealant, n—a firestop material used to cover a
3.2.3.1 Discussion—The calculation of the cable fill ratio is
based on the outside diameter of the cable(s) and the cable surface or fill a void, or both, which is intended to prevent
passage of a flame, heat, liquid, or gas.
sleeve device’s inside diameter.
3.2.4 fill material, n—a certified firestop material that is
3.2.10 forming material, n—specific certified product that is
placed in an annular space to fill all or part of the annular
part of the firestop system.
space.
3.2.10.1 Discussion—Typically, forming materials include,
3.2.4.1 Discussion—Certified products usually have a list-
but are not limited to, mineral wool and ceramic fiber. These
ing label applied to them as “identification applied to the
specific firestop materials are often deemed noncombustible by
product that includes the name of a quality assurance agency
building codes using Test Method E136. When noncombustible
indicating that a representative sample of the product or
forming material is required, a combustible material should not
material has been tested and evaluated by the quality assurance
be used even if it is certified because its fire performance may
agency,” which is the definition in Practice E2174 and Practice
not be equal to the tested material.
E2393.
3.2.11 horizontal assembly, n—a ceiling, floor, or roof
3.2.5 fire barrier, n—an interior wall or partition that has a
assembly that has a fire-resistance rating as determined in
fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with Test Meth-
accordance with Test Methods E119 or a standardized test
ods E119 or a standardized test method with similar intent.
method with similar intent.
3.2.5.1 Discussion—Fire barrier is defined in the ICC
3.2.11.1 Discussion—Horizontal assembly is defined in the
International Building Code as “a fire-resistance-rated wall
ICC International Building Code as “a fire-resistance-rated
assembly of materials designed to restrict the spread of fire in
floor or roof assembly of materials designed to restrict the
which continuity is maintained.” Sometimes other industry
spread of fire in which continuity is maintained.”
terms are used in lieu of fire-resistance-rated wall assembly,
3.2.12 listing, n—a publicly available document created by
such as fire walls, fire partitions, smoke barriers, demising
a technically qualified, independent, third-party agency that
wall, etc.
provides the requirements of an application of a specific
3.2.6 fire-separating element, n—either a fire barrier or a
firestop system, which was tested or assessed, and meets the
horizontal assembly.
requirements of Test Method E814 or another applicable
firestop system test method.
3.2.6.1 Discussion—Fire-separating element is defined in
European building codes that cite ISO 10295-1 as the “floor,
3.2.12.1 Discussion—A listing is published by an organiza-
wall or other separating element of construction having a
tion acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) and
period of fire resistance determined in accordance with ISO
it is concerned with the description of firestop systems and
834-1.” Test Method E1966 defines a fire-separating element
firestop materials, which are properly tested. The significance
as “n—floors, walls, and partitions having a period of fire
of a listing is dependent on the country issuing the listing. In
resistance determined in accordance with Test Methods E119
some countries, a listing signifies that periodic and ongoing
or E1529.”
inspections of manufacturing facilities are conducted to deter-
3.2.7 firestop device, n—a mechanism designed to serve the
mine whether the firestop materials maintain their quality
special purpose of sealing around a penetrating item and
under controlled manufacturing conditions. In other countries,
perform the special function of resisting heat transfer, flaming
a listing signifies that the manufacturer has attested (certified)
and hot gases through it or the penetrating item.
to the materials and process used in the manufacturing process
of the firestop materials tested as part of a firestop system. In
3.2.7.1 Discussion—Firestop devices are firestop materials
addition, some countries require ongoing documentation sup-
and are available in many types: for example, collars,
porting the original attestation: either limited manufacturing or
grommets, plugs, raceways, covers, and others. A “firestop
on-site inspections, or both. Listings for firestop systems are
device” has the type and quantity of firestop material pre-
sometimes described by different nomenclatures: such as
measured, thus eliminating some ambiguity that otherwise
“Design Numbers” by Intertek; “System Numbers” by UL, etc.
occurs with the manual measurements of firestop materials,
Typically, the agency creating the listing will be recognized
such as with liquid sealant-based firestop systems.
under ISO 17065 as a Certification Body, which ensures that
3.2.8 firestop material, n—any component, excluding the
the agency has the competence and impartiality needed to be a
opening, annular space, fire-separating element, and penetrat-
technically qualified and independent third-party.
ing items, that is used in the firestop system.
3.2.13 manufacturer’s instructions, n—one or more
3.2.8.1 Discussion—Firestop materials include the follow- documents, which provide the conditions, limitations, and
E3157 − 23
specific procedures to properly use a firestop material during a 3.2.18.1 Discussion—Preformed firestop products are fire-
firestop system installation, prepared by the producer of the stop materials that include, but are not limited to, precast
firestop material(s). devices, cable pathway devices, wrap strips, firestop collars,
firestop pillows, firestop blocks, and composite sheets, but not
3.2.13.1 Discussion—In many cases, the manufacturer’s
including firestop putties. A “preformed firestop product” has
instructions are an intrinsic part of the published listing and are
the type and quantity of firestop material pre-measured, thus
therefore not repeated in the listing, but are nevertheless just as
eliminating some ambiguity that otherwise occurs with the
important as other details that are stated in the listing.
manual measurements of firestop materials, such as with liquid
3.2.14 membrane penetration, n—an opening only made
sealant-based firestop systems.
into one side of a fire-separating element.
3.2.19 through penetration, n—an opening that passes
through a fire-separating element.
3.2.14.1 Discussion—“Membrane penetration” is defined in
the ICC International Building Code as “a breach in one side
3.2.19.1 Discussion—“Through-penetration” is defined in
of a floor-ceiling, roof-ceiling, or wall assembly to accommo-
the ICC International Building Code as, “a breach in both
date an item installed into or passing through the breach.”
sides of a floor, floor-ceiling, or wall assembly to accommodate
3.2.15 opening, n—a hole made through or into a fire-
an item passing through the breaches.”
separating element.
4. Significance and Use
3.2.15.1 Discussion—When installing a firestop system, an
opening is typically made to accommodate a penetrating item
4.1 The information contained in this guide is general in
or a firestop material, or both. The concept of “opening” is
nature because of: the great number of commercially available
used in the definition of firestop system but is not specifically
firestop systems globally; the quantity and variety of interna-
defined in Test Method E814. The concept of opening includes
tionally published firestop system’s listings; worldwide varia-
both membrane penetrations and through penetrations. Open-
tions in building and fire code requirements; and the many
ing as defined and used herein is also sometimes referred to as
conditions and applications associated with a firestop system’s
a “breach” or “penetration” in some building codes. Breach is
use.
not defined in the ICC International Building Code but is
4.2 This guide provides general information and guidance
used in the IBC definitions related to firestop systems, some
that is primarily used by firestop contractors and firestop
of which are cited or noted herein. However, the term penetra-
industry inspectors of a firestop system. However, this guide
tion is used in other international codes and is defined in ISO
should also be used by others, such as architects, engineers,
10295-1 as “an aperture within a fire-separating element
specifiers, etc. Some of the information referenced in this guide
usually present to accommodate the passage of a service
provides resources for additional information not contained in
through that element.”
the manufacturer’s installations, the firestop system’s test
3.2.16 packing material, n—a generic product that is part of
report, and listing. Information contained in this guide also
the firestop system.
allows a single source for a general comparison of firestop
3.2.16.1 Discussion—A packing material is typically used
materials used during the installation of firestop systems.
in the same manner as a forming material. The only difference
4.3 This guide discusses general procedures, such as sub-
is that forming material is a certified product referenced by a
strate cleaning and priming, as well as installation of the
specific trade name and manufacturer in the listing. The generic
components of a firestop system.
product classification of packing material is based on a generic
NOTE 2—The term “substrate” has a particular meaning in engineering.
product description in the listing. Packing materials include,
A substrate is defined as the “basic surface on which a material adheres,
but are not limited to, mineral wool and backer rod. for example, paint or laminate.”
3.2.17 penetrating item, n—any part of an electrical,
4.4 This guide explains the general properties and functions
mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, or telecommunication service;
of various penetrating items and firestop materials.
a structural element (for example, beam or column); or any
4.5 This guide presents general guidelines for the applica-
other element that the opening surrounds and is part of the
tion of the various materials used in the installation of a firestop
firestop system.
system for a specific application, and environmental conditions
3.2.17.1 Discussion—The concept of “penetrating item” is and effects that are known to potentially affect a firestop
not specifically defined in Test Method E814 but it is refer- system’s installation.
enced in the definitions of firestop system, membrane-
4.6 This guide is intended to be read completely at least
penetration firestop system and through-penetration firestop
once, and each of the Sections 1 through 19 should be read in
system, with the latter citing some examples. Within this guide,
their entirety to avoid misunderstanding and misapplication.
the concept of penetrating item includes, but is not limited to,
4.7 This guide may also provide some value to users of
cables, conduits, ducts, and pipes, as well as recessed boxes/
IMO Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and other International
fixtures and structural elements, such as columns and beams.
3.2.18 preformed firestop product, n—the part of firestop
system that does not require any curing time.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms, Fifth Edition,
1994.
20 22
An opening, hole, or gap. “May” is used to indicate that a provision is optional.
E3157 − 23
Maritime Organization (IMO) documents, including the IMO firestop system or firestop materials, or both. Many additional
FTP Code, on fire testing firestop systems, also known as sources to periphery installation information are referenced.
“penetration systems.” All of this information should be useful to verify that the
proper firestop system was designed, specified, selected,
4.8 This guide is not an all-inclusive document. It is
installed, and inspected.
intended to address common sources for planning, preparation,
and installation of firestop systems. References to other docu- 5.2 This guide establishes common terminology for the
ments made herein contain important information and details
firestop industry that should be applied internationally because
that provide more in-depth knowledge of firestop systems and most of these definitions are based on international standards
their installation.
and codes. These common definitions should help to increase
international understanding of firestop systems.
4.9 This guide does not provide all of the specific informa-
tion that is typically described in test reports, listings or 5.3 This guide illustrates how a firestop system sometimes
judgments with justifiable technical rationale for specific ap-
has to perform a multitude of functions: for example, fire
plications of firestop systems. resistance, water resistance, air leakage resistance, surface
flammability resistance, smoke generation resistance, move-
4.10 This guide is not a firestop system’s installation
ment compatibility, environmental resistance, sound resistance,
manual.
etc. This guide recommends planning procedures to help verify
NOTE 3—The firestop system’s manufacturer should be consulted about
a proper firestop system installation, which helps avoid poor
applications for their firestop materials, including their proper storage,
performance of an installed firestop system. This guide in-
use, and installation.
creases life safety and knowledge by increasing the industry’s
4.11 This guide does not provide detailed information about
awareness of these many other functions that a firestop system
the firestop system’s inspection process or provide specific
sometimes has to perform simultaneously when properly
information about firestop industry inspector’s qualifications
installed. When these functions are obtained from differing test
and competence.
methods described in test reports and listings, conflicts be-
tween the installations of firestop materials should be dis-
NOTE 4—Practice E2174 provides a method for on-site inspection of
firestop systems. The ICC International Building Code references cussed and resolved prior to installation of the firestop system.
Practice E2174 under requirements for special inspections. Practice E3038
5.4 This guide provides a summary of the various firestop
provides information for assessing and qualifying candidates as firestop
systems and firestop materials, as well as their uses. These
industry inspectors of firestop systems based on the candidate’s compe-
tence.
précises provide a quick reference for general comparison,
which should assist in expediting selection of an alternate
4.12 Except as discussed in 6.8, this guide does not provide
firestop system when field conditions have changed during the
information about “blank openings,” which involve an opening
building’s construction.
that is sealed with firestop materials but does not have any
penetrating items.
5.5 This guide offers general information for preparation of
the opening and substrates, as well as general instructions
4.13 Test reports, listings, and judgments with justifiable
regarding the storage and use of forming materials and packing
technical rationale do not normally contain all the information
materials. This information provides the firestop contractor
needed related to the aging, environmental, mechanical, and
and others a general reference document.
physical properties of the firestop system; or the longevity,
durability, and performance of the firestop system. This guide
5.6 This guide also presents some “tricks-of-the-trade” and
offers some resources to ascertain this supplemental informa-
observations when preparing for and conducting the installa-
tion because these characteristics can affect the firestop sys-
tion of a firestop system. These annotations should assist in
tem’s installation and performance.
reducing the installation time and help avoid compatibility
conflicts between installation materials and the firestop mate-
NOTE 5—Some information related to these performance characteristics
rials being used together.
of firestop systems or firestop materials is also found in: Test Method
E2785, which tests for exposure of firestop materials to environmental
conditions; Test Methods E2786, which measures expansion of intumes-
6. General Information
cent materials used in firestop systems; and Practice E2923, which
measures the relative movement capabilities of through-penetration fire-
6.1 Firestop systems are used throughout the world and are
stop systems. Still, other performance characteristics of the firestop system
identified by other terms in other industries (for example,
can be specified that are not contained in firestop system’s test report or
“penetration systems”). Therefore, it is important to have a
listing may also be required, such as surface flammability and smoke
basic understanding of general information that could affect the
attributes determined by Test Method E84 or other similar standards (for
installation of firestop systems. This guide may also help those
example, CAN/ULC-S102, EN 13501-1, NFPA 255, UL 723, etc).
purchasing an installed firestop system understand the amount
5. Overview of Contents in this Guide of time and supplemental materials that the firestop contractor
has to provide in order to achieve a quality installation.
5.1 This guide provides an international compendium of
general information regarding firestop systems and firestop 6.2 Firestop systems are composed of parts. The first part is
materials. It will save time in searching for the individual a fire-separating element. The second part is an opening
sources and compiling the information. In addition, many created through or into a fire-separating element. When the
sources of supplementary information are cited regarding the opening is only into one side of the fire-separating element, the
E3157 − 23
firestop system needed is called a membrane-penetration fire- assessed to create judgments. This is also true of other
stop system. When the opening is completely through the conditions of these test standards used to fire test firestop
fire-separating element, the opening is called a through- systems.
penetration and the firestop system needed is called a through-
6.6 Some listings declare that the manufacturer’s instruc-
penetration firestop system. When the opening is not com-
tions be followed for installation of the firestop system. It is
pletely through but into one side of the fire-separating element,
possible that the manufacturer’s instructions have changed
the opening is called a membrane-penetration and the firestop
from the time of fire testing and publication of the listing.
system needed is called a membrane-penetration firestop sys-
Therefore, to assure the manufacturer’s instructions are un-
tem. The next extremely important part of a firestop system is
changed or still applicable, the manufacturer’s instructions
at least one penetrating item (for example, electrical,
should be verified with the manufacturer or agency publishing
mechanical, plumbing, telecommunication, or other service; or
the listing before beginning the firestop system installation
a structural element (for example, beam column, etc.) that
process. Ideally this verification process should take place
passes through or into the opening. The last part of a firestop
when a firestop system is being specified to avoid project
system is the application of one or more firestop materials.
delays once the work is awarded. The manufacturer’s instruc-
6.3 Understanding relevant terminology is also critical in
tions should also bear revision dates, which will assist in the
comprehending the firestop system’s test report or listing to
verification process.
verify proper firestop system installations. Test Method E814
6.7 North American firestop system test methods (for
and the other North American test methods use the terms
example, Test Method E814, UL 1479, and CAN/ULC-S115),
F-Rating and T-Rating to describe limitations ascribed to
contain a requirement for a hose stream test. In the United
flaming and temperature limitations, respectively, on the unex-
States, the application of the hose stream is basically conducted
posed surface of the firestop system. However, most other
in compliance with Practice E2226. Other international test
countries use the terms integrity and insulation to determine
standards for fire testing firestop systems do not mandate or
flaming and temperature limitations, respectively.
include a hose stream test. Using a judgment with justifiable
6.4 In addition, UL 1479 has an optional L-Rating to assess
technical rationale in the United States, based on fire testing
air leakage as well as an optional W-Rating to evaluate water
without the hose stream test, could affect the intended perfor-
resistance. Some in the industry refer to this optional L-Rating
mance of an installed firestop system.
test as smoke leakage or cold smoke leakage. CAN/ULC-S115
also has an optional L-Rating. However, no other test methods 6.8 “Blank openings” are not part of this guide because
for firestop systems include these optional performance ratings: these types of openings do not have penetrating items, which is
L-Rating and W-Rating. The test report or listing, or both, a necessary part of a firestop system. However, much of this
should specially state an L-Rating for the firestop system to be guide contains helpful information about the opening and the
considered as smoke resistant. The test report or listing, or installation of firestop materials. Sometimes a blank opening is
both, should specially state a W-Rating to be considered as actually a fire-resistive joint system, which should be tested in
water resistant. accordance with Test Method E1966, Test Method E2307, Test
Method E2837, or similar test standards.
NOTE 6—Throughout most of the world, firestop system and fire-
resistive joint system requirements for fire performance are denoted in
6.9 Fire testing to Test Method E814, or similar test
separate test methods. CAN/ULC-S115 is a unique standard in that it
standards, does not replicate every
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E3157 − 22 E3157 − 23
Standard Guide for
Understanding and Using Information Related to Installation
of Firestop Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3157; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
This guide should increase the awareness of information and approaches associated with installing
firestop systems. Various building trades (also known as construction trades) create openings (breaches
or penetrations) in fire-separating elements to accommodate the installation of existing or future
penetrating items such as pipes, ducts, wires, etc. The materials and methods of construction used to
seal and protect openings created in fire-separating elements must not reduce its existing fire-
resistance rating. Multiple building trades are sometimes involved with the process of restoring the
fire-resistance rating of the fire-separating element. Often the building trade (for example, firestop
contractor) responsible for restoring the fire-resistance rating of the fire-separating element did not
create the opening. This guide is intended to help identify and alleviate problems as well as
misunderstandings associated with the installation of firestop systems. This guide is intended to
provide information to those that create the opening, install the penetrating item through the opening,
install firestop materials for the opening, and those charged with the inspection of the firestop system
during and after installation. This guide proposes a series of options or instructions that offer direction
without recommending a definite course of action for the installation of firestop systems.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide is a compendium of information related to installing firestop systems in fire-separating elements. This guide is
intended to be used to increase industry knowledge of national and international testing requirements, code prerequisites, and other
supplemental tests that may be specified, which can affect the installation and performance of firestop systems.
1.2 This guide relates to the use of firestop systems tested, or evaluated, to Test Method E814 and other test methods addressing
the same specific subject matter, such as CAN/ULC-S115; EN 1366-3; IMO Resolution MSC.307(88), FTP Code; IEEE 634; ISO
10295-1; UL 1479; etc.
1.3 This guide also addresses the use of firestop systems tested or evaluated to Test Methods E119 or other test methods that use
a firestop system as a component of a typically larger test assembly, such as AS 1530.4; BS 476-21; BS 476; CAN/ULC-S101;
ISO 834; NFPA 251; UL 263; etc.
1.4 This guide discusses the installation of firestop systems in membrane penetrations and through penetrations. The installation
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.21 on Serviceability.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2022July 15, 2023. Published September 2022August 2023. Originally approved in 2019. Last previous edition approved in 20202022
as E3157E3157 – 22.-20. DOI: 10.1520/E3157-22.10.1520/E3157-23.
“Should” is used to indicate that a provision is not mandatory but is recommended as good practice.
In this guide, BS 476–21 and BS 476–22 are collectively referred to as BS 476.
In this guide, ISO 834-1, ISO 834-4, ISO 834-5, ISO 834-6, ISO 834-8, and ISO 834-9 are collectively referred to as ISO 834.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3157 − 23
is typically performed by a firestop contractor (also known as a firestop installer or an installer). However, the quality of the
installation is based on the information provided to the firestop contractor as well as the expertise and competence of the firestop
contractor. A lack of information in the test report, listing,manufacturer’s instructions, or project documents can be the cause of
a deficient installation.
1.5 The term “firestop system” refers to and includes both a membrane-penetration firestop system and through-penetration
firestop system.
1.6 Information in this guide is applicable to firestop systems that accommodate single or multiple penetrating items.
1.7 This guide does not address the design aspects of locating and defining the dimensions of an opening; or the method to create
the opening; or the inspection of the penetrating item prior to firestop material installation. However, locating and defining the
dimensions of an opening and the method to create the opening are critical to a firestop system’s installation.
1.8 This guide does not address all the test methods needed to address proper performance of all firestop systems or firestop
materials.
NOTE 1—For example, IEEE 848 provides information on the ampacity derating of cables that are protected by firestop systems using IEEE 835 as baseline
information.
1.9 This guide does not address all the test methods needed to address proper performance of firestop systems in all installations.
For a specific application of a firestop system one or more of the following are consulted when available:
1.9.1 The firestop system’s test report or listing;
1.9.2 The manufacturer’s instructions when they are not in conflict with the firestop system’s test report or listing; or
1.9.3 A judgment with justifiable technical rationale prepared based on a firestop system’s test report or listing.
1.10 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.11 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.
1.12 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course
of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.
Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace
the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied
without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the
document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.13 Fire standards, other than ASTM standards, are referenced in this document. The following caveat applies to all fire standards
referenced in this guide. Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed
in conducting these tests.
1.14 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.15 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
E3157 − 23
C717 Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E119 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
E136 Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 °C
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
E814 Test Method for Fire Tests of Penetration Firestop Systems
E1529 Test Methods for Determining Effects of Large Hydrocarbon Pool Fires on Structural Members and Assemblies
E1966 Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
E2032 Practice for Extension of Data From Fire Resistance Tests Conducted in Accordance with ASTM E 119
E2174 Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Firestop Systems
E2226 Practice for Application of Hose Stream
E2307 Test Method for Determining Fire Resistance of Perimeter Fire Barriers Using Intermediate-Scale, Multi-story Test
Apparatus
E2393 Practice for On-Site Inspection of Installed Fire Resistive Joint Systems and Perimeter Fire Barriers
E2750 Guide for Extension of Data from Penetration Firestop System Tests Conducted in Accordance with ASTM E814
E2785 Test Method for Exposure of Firestop Materials to Severe Environmental Conditions
E2786 Test Methods for Measuring Expansion of Intumescent Materials Used in Firestop and Joint Systems
E2837 Test Method for Determining the Fire Resistance of Continuity Head-of-Wall Joint Systems Installed Between Rated Wall
Assemblies and Nonrated Horizontal Assemblies
E2923 Practice for Longevity Assessment of Firestop Materials Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry
E3021/E3021M Guide for Evaluating the Relative Effectiveness of Building Systems to Resist the Passage of Products of
Combustion Based on the Aggregation of Leakage Rates
E3037 Test Method for Measuring Relative Movement Capabilities of Through-Penetration Firestop Systems
E3038 Practice for Assessing and Qualifying Candidates as Inspectors of Firestop Systems and Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
2.2 ACI Standard:
ACI /TMS 216.1 Code Requirements for Determining Fire Resistance of Concrete and Masonry Construction Assemblies
2.3 Standards Australia:
AS 1530.4 Methods for fire tests on building materials, components and structures -– Part 4: Fire-resistance tests of elements
of construction
AS 4072.1 Components for the protection of openings in fire-resistant separating elements -– Part 1: Service penetrations and
control joints
2.4 BSI Standards:
BS 476-20 Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for determination of the fire resistance of elements of
construction (general principles)
BS 476-21 Fire tests on building materials and structures. Methods for determination of the fire resistance of loadbearing
elements of construction
BS 476-22 Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for determination of the fire resistance of non-loadbearing
elements of construction
2.5 SCC Standards:
CAN/ULC-S101 Standard Methods of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials
CAN/ULC-S102 Standard Method of Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and Assemblies
CAN/ULC-S115 Standard Method of Fire Tests of Firestop Systems
2.6 CEN Standards:
EN 1366-3 Fire resistance tests for service installations -– Part 3: Penetration seals
EN 1366-4 Fire resistance tests for service installations -– Part 4: Linear joint seals
EN 13501-1 Fire classification of construction products and building elements -– Part 1: Classification using data from reaction
to fire tests
2.7 GA Standard:
GA-225 Repair of Fire-Rated Gypsum Panel Product Systems
Available from American Concrete Institute (ACI), 38800 Country Club Dr., Farmington Hills, MI 48331-3439, http://www.concrete.org.
Available from Standards Australia, GPO Box 476, Sydney NSW 2001, Australia, http://www.standards.org.au.
Available from British Standards Institution (BSI), 389 Chiswick High Rd., London W4 4AL, United Kingdom, http://www.bsigroup.com.
Available from Standards Council of Canada (SCC), 55 Metcalfe Street, Suite 600, Ottawa, ON K1P 6L5, Canada, https://www.scc.ca/.
Available from European Committee for Standardization (CEN), CEN-CENELEC Management Centre, Rue de la Science 23, B - 1040, Brussels, Belgium,
https://www.cencenelec.eu/.
Available from Gypsum Association, 962 Wayne Ave., Suite 620, Silver Spring, MD 20910, https://www.gypsum.org.
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2.8 ICC Standard:
13 13
ICC International Building Code (IBC ), 2018 Edition
2.9 IEEE Standards:
IEEE 634 Standard Cable-Penetration Fire Stop Qualification Test
IEEE 835 Standard Power Cable Ampacity Tables
IEEE 848 Standard Procedure for the Determination of the Ampacity Derating Factor for Fire-Protected Cable Systems
2.10 IMO Standards:
IMO Resolution A.753 Guidelines for the Application of Plastic Pipes on Ships
IMO Resolution MSC.307(88) International Code for Application of Fire Test Procedures (FTP Code)
IMO Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)
2.11 ISO Standards:
ISO 834-1 Fire-resistance tests --– Elements of building construction --– Part 1: General requirements
ISO 834-4 Fire-resistance tests --– Elements of building construction --– Part 4: Specific requirements for loadbearing vertical
separating elements
ISO 834-5 Fire-resistance tests --– Elements of building construction --– Part 5: Specific requirements for loadbearing horizontal
separating elements
ISO 834-6 Fire-resistance tests --– Elements of building construction --– Part 6: Specific requirements for beams
ISO 834-8 Fire-resistance tests --– Elements of building construction --– Part 8: Specific requirements for non-loadbearing
vertical separating elements
ISO 834-9 Fire-resistance tests --– Elements of building construction --– Part 9: Specific requirements for non-loadbearing
ceiling elements
ISO 10295-1 Fire tests for building elements and components --– Fire testing of service installations --– Part 1: Penetration seals
ISO 10295-2 Fire tests for building elements and components --– Fire testing of service installations --– Part 2: Linear joint (gap)
seals
ISO 17065 Conformity assessment --– Requirements for bodies certifying products, processes and services
2.12 NFPA Standards:
18 18 18
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC )
NFPA 90A Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems
NFPA 96 Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations
NFPA 251 Standard Methods of Tests of Fire Endurance of Building Construction and Materials
NFPA 255 Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
2.13 UL Standards:
UL 263 Standard for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
UL 723 Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
UL 1479 Standard for Fire Tests of Penetration Firestops
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of general terms related to fire used in this guide, refer to Terminology E176. For convenience
and direct application in this guide, the existing definitions for a number of general concepts related to firestop systems are as
follows:
3.1.1 authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), n—the designated authority, or their duly authorized representative, charged with the
administration and enforcement of the local fire code or building code, or both. E2174
3.1.2 authorizing authority (AA), n—the designated person, or organization, or their duly authorized representative, charged with
the administration and enforcement of the provisions of this inspection document. E2174
3.1.2.1 Discussion—
Examples of the AA include the responsible architect, engineer, building owner, or their representative.
Available from International Code Council (ICC), 500 New Jersey Ave., NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, http://www.iccsafe.org.
A registered trademark of International Code Council.
Available from Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE), 445 Hoes Ln., Piscataway, NJ 08854-4141, http://www.ieee.org.
Available from International Maritime Organization (IMO), 4, Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, http://www.imo.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland,
https://www.iso.org.
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
A registered trademark of National Fire Protection Association.
Available from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 14301 SE 1st Street, Suite 140, Vancouver, WA 98684, http://www.ul.com.
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3.1.3 fire-resistive joint system, n—a device or designed feature that provides a fire separating function along continuous linear
openings, including changes in direction, between or bounded by fire-separating elements. E1966
3.1.4 firestop industry inspector, n—the individual or company possessing the credentials set forth in Practice E3038, and who is
authorized by the AHJ or AA, or both, to conduct an inspection under Practices E2174 and E2393, or both. E3038
3.1.5 firestop system, n—a specific combination of penetrating item or items, the specific construction that is penetrated, and the
materials or devices, or both, that seal the opening provided to accommodate one or more items that penetrate into or through a
fire-resistance rated assembly. E814
3.1.5.1 Discussion—
The materials and devices used to seal the opening around penetrating items are sometimes referred to as “firestops.” Note that
it is not “firestops” that are tested by Test Method E814, but rather “firestop systems.” Due to the complex interaction during a fire
between the penetrant, the penetrated assembly, the materials, or devices, or combinations thereof, used to seal the penetration, and
the specific size and shape of the opening, it is not possible to simply test the “firestop” to develop fire resistance data.
3.1.5.2 Discussion—
The term firestop system refers to and includes both a membrane-penetration firestop system and a through-penetration firestop
system. (See also firestop device,fill material,firestop material,firestop sealant, and forming material.)
3.1.6 judgment, n—an evaluation of a field condition which does not conform to an existing tested and listed system. E2174
3.1.6.1 Discussion—
There are documents that assist in producing sound judgments with justifiable technical rationale. For example, Guide E2750
provides information to extend the results from fire tests conducted in accordance with Test Method E814. Guide E2750 limits the
extension of data to a single aspect because when more than one aspect is assessed, the technical rationale becomes much more
complicated. Judgment is also defined in Practice E2393.
3.1.7 membrane-penetration firestop system, n—a firestop system that seals the opening provided to accommodate one or more
items that penetrate the membrane on only one side of a fire-resistance rated assembly. E814
3.1.7.1 Discussion—
Examples of penetrating items include cables, conduits, ducts, pipes, and electrical boxes.
3.1.7.2 Discussion—
In the ICC International Building Code, a “membrane-penetration firestop system” is defined as “an assemblage consisting of
a fire-resistance rated floor-ceiling, roof-ceiling, or wall assembly, one or more penetrating items installed into or passing through
the breach in one side of the assembly and the materials or devices, or both, installed to resist the spread of fire into the assembly
for a prescribed period of time.”
3.1.8 through-penetration firestop system, n—a firestop system that seals the opening around penetrating items that pass through
the entire fire-resistance rated assembly. E814
3.1.8.1 Discussion—
Examples of penetrating items include cables, cable trays, conduits, ducts, and pipes.
3.1.8.2 Discussion—
In the ICC International Building Code, a “through-penetration firestop system” is defined as “an assemblage consisting of a fire
resistance-rated floor, floor-ceiling, or wall assembly, one or more penetrating items passing through the breaches in both sides of
the assembly and the materials or devices, or both, installed to resist the spread of fire through the assembly for a prescribed period
of time.”
3.1.9 For definitions of general terms related to building construction used in this guide, refer to Terminology E631.
3.1.10 For definitions of general terms related to building seals and sealants used in this guide, refer to Terminology C717.
3.1.11 When there is a conflict between terms in Terminology E631 and Terminology C717, the terms in Terminology E631
prevail.
3.1.12 When there is a conflict between terms in Terminology E176 and Terminology E631 or Terminology C717, the terms in
Terminology E176 prevail.
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3.1.13 Terms specifically defined in 3.1 and 3.2, whenever used as intended for this document, are italicized for ease of
identification and reference.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 Discussion—A number of concepts are discussed in this guide to help establish a link with the terminology used within some
building codes and other national and international test standards. This includes, but is not limited to, annular space,fire
barrier,fire-separating element,horizontal assembly,membrane penetration,membrane-penetration firestop system,through
penetration, and through-penetration firestop system.
3.2.2 annular space, n—the void around the penetrating item within an opening.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—
Annular space is defined in the ICC International Building Code as “the opening around the penetrating item.”
3.2.3 cable fill ratio, n—the amount of cross-sectional area of a cable sleeve device that is occupied by a cable(s).
3.2.3.1 Discussion—
The calculation of the cable fill ratio is based on the outside diameter of the cable(s) and the cable sleeve device’s inside diameter.
3.2.4 fill material, n—a certified firestop material that is placed in an annular space to fill all or part of the annular space.
3.2.4.1 Discussion—
Certified products usually have a listing label applied to them as “identification applied to the product that includes the name of
a quality assurance agency indicating that a representative sample of the product or material has been tested and evaluated by the
quality assurance agency,” which is the definition in Practice E2174 and Practice E2393.
3.2.5 fire barrier, n—an interior wall or partition that has a fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with Test Methods E119
or a standardized test method with similar intent.
3.2.5.1 Discussion—
Fire barrier is defined in the ICC International Building Code as “a fire-resistance-rated wall assembly of materials designed to
restrict the spread of fire in which continuity is maintained.” Sometimes other industry terms are used in lieu of fire-resistance-rated
wall assembly, such as fire walls, fire partitions, smoke barriers, demising wall, etc.
3.2.6 fire-separating element, n—either a fire barrier or a horizontal assembly.
3.2.6.1 Discussion—
Fire-separating element is defined in European building codes that cite ISO 10295-1 as the “floor, wall or other separating element
of construction having a period of fire resistance determined in accordance with ISO 834-1.” Test Method E1966 defines a
fire-separating element as “n—floors, walls, and partitions having a period of fire resistance determined in accordance with Test
Methods E119 or E1529.”
3.2.7 firestop device, n—a mechanism designed to serve the special purpose of sealing around a penetrating item and perform the
special function of resisting heat transfer, flaming and hot gases through it or the penetrating item.
3.2.7.1 Discussion—
Firestop devices are firestop materials and are available in many types: for example, collars, grommets, plugs, raceways, covers,
and others. A “firestop device” has the type and quantity of firestop material pre-measured, thus eliminating some ambiguity that
otherwise occurs with the manual measurements of firestop materials, such as with liquid sealant-based firestop systems.
3.2.8 firestop material, n—any component, excluding the opening,annular space,fire-separating element, and penetrating items,
that is used in the firestop system.
3.2.8.1 Discussion—
Firestop materials include the following: fill material,firestop device,firestop sealant,forming material,packing material, and
preformed firestop product.Firestop materials also include subsets of the preceding defined terms including, but not limited to, the
following: backing material (9.4.1), bond breakers (9.5.1), firestop collars (11.1), wrap strips (12.2), cable sleeve devices (13.2),
firestop pillow (14.2), firestop brick (14.2), composite sheet (15.2), firestop putty (16.3), mortar (17.3), and firestop foam (18.3).
3.2.9 firestop sealant, n—a firestop material used to cover a surface or fill a void, or both, which is intended to prevent passage
of a flame, heat, liquid, or gas.
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3.2.10 forming material, n—specific certified product that is part of the firestop system.
3.2.10.1 Discussion—
Typically, forming materials include, but are not limited to, mineral wool and ceramic fiber. These specific firestop materials are
often deemed noncombustible by building codes using Test Method E136. When noncombustible forming material is required, a
combustible material should not be used even if it is certified because its fire performance may not be equal to the tested material.
3.2.11 horizontal assembly, n—a ceiling, floor, or roof assembly that has a fire-resistance rating as determined in accordance with
Test Methods E119 or a standardized test method with similar intent.
3.2.11.1 Discussion—
Horizontal assembly is defined in the ICC International Building Code as “a fire-resistance-rated floor or roof assembly of
materials designed to restrict the spread of fire in which continuity is maintained.”
3.2.12 listing, n—a publicly available document created by a technically qualified, independent, third-party agency that provides
the requirements of an application of a specific firestop system, which was tested or assessed, and meets the requirements of Test
Method E814 or another applicable firestop system test method.
3.2.12.1 Discussion—
A listing is published by an organization acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) and it is concerned with the
description of firestop systems and firestop materials, which are properly tested. The significance of a listing is dependent on the
country issuing the listing. In some countries, a listing signifies that periodic and ongoing inspections of manufacturing facilities
are conducted to determine whether the firestop materials maintain their quality under controlled manufacturing conditions. In
other countries, a listing signifies that the manufacturer has attested (certified) to the materials and process used in the
manufacturing process of the firestop materials tested as part of a firestop system. In addition, some countries require ongoing
documentation supporting the original attestation: either limited manufacturing or on-site inspections, or both. Listings for firestop
systems are sometimes described by different nomenclatures: such as “Design Numbers” by Intertek; “System Numbers” by UL,
etc. Typically, the agency creating the listing will be recognized under ISO 17065 as a Certification Body, which ensures that the
agency has the competence and impartiality needed to be a technically qualified and independent third-party.
3.2.13 manufacturer’s instructions, n—one or more documents, which provide the conditions, limitations, and specific procedures
to properly use a firestop material during a firestop system installation, prepared by the producer of the firestop material(s).
3.2.13.1 Discussion—
In many cases, the manufacturer’s instructions are an intrinsic part of the published listing and are therefore not repeated in the
listing, but are nevertheless just as important as other details that are stated in the listing.
3.2.14 membrane penetration, n—an opening only made into one side of a fire-separating element.
3.2.14.1 Discussion—
“Membrane penetration” is defined in the ICC International Building Code as “a breach in one side of a floor-ceiling,
roof-ceiling, or wall assembly to accommodate an item installed into or passing through the breach.”
3.2.15 opening, n—a hole made through or into a fire-separating element.
3.2.15.1 Discussion—
When installing a firestop system, an opening is typically made to accommodate a penetrating item or a firestop material, or both.
The concept of “opening” is used in the definition of firestop system but is not specifically defined in Test Method E814. The
concept of opening includes both membrane penetrations and through penetrations.Opening as defined and used herein is also
sometimes referred to as a “breach” or “penetration” in some building codes. Breach is not defined in the ICC International
13 13
Building Code but is used in the IBC definitions related to firestop systems, some of which are cited or noted herein. However,
the term penetration is used in other international codes and is defined in ISO 10295-1 as “an aperture within a fire-separating
element usually present to accommodate the passage of a service through that element.”
3.2.16 packing material, n—a generic product that is part of the firestop system.
3.2.16.1 Discussion—
A packing material is typically used in the same manner as a forming material. The only difference is that forming material is a
An opening, hole, or gap.
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certified product referenced by a specific trade name and manufacturer in the listing. The generic product classification of packing
material is based on a generic product description in the listing.Packing materials include, but are not limited to, mineral wool
and backer rod.
3.2.17 penetrating item, n—any part of an electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, or telecommunication service; a structural
element (for example, beam or column); or any other element that the opening surrounds and is part of the firestop system.
3.2.17.1 Discussion—
The concept of “penetrating item” is not specifically defined in Test Method E814 but it is referenced in the definitions of firestop
system,membrane-penetration firestop system and through-penetration firestop system, with the latter citing some examples. Within
this guide, the concept of penetrating item includes, but is not limited to, cables, conduits, ducts, and pipes, as well as recessed
boxes/fixtures and structural elements, such as columns and beams.
3.2.18 preformed firestop product, n—the part of firestop system that does not require any curing time.
3.2.18.1 Discussion—
Preformed firestop products are firestop materials that include, but are not limited to, precast devices, cable pathway devices, wrap
strips, firestop collars, firestop pillows, firestop blocks, and composite sheets, but not including firestop putties. A “preformed
firestop product” has the type and quantity of firestop material pre-measured, thus eliminating some ambiguity that otherwise
occurs with the manual measurements of firestop materials, such as with liquid sealant-based firestop systems.
3.2.19 through penetration, n—an opening that passes through a fire-separating element.
3.2.19.1 Discussion—
“Through-penetration” is defined in the ICC International Building Code as, “a breach in both sides of a floor, floor-ceiling, or
wall assembly to accommodate an item passing through the breaches.”
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The information contained in this guide is general in nature because of: the great number of commercially available firestop
systems globally; the quantity and variety of internationally published firestop system’s listings; worldwide variations in building
and fire code requirements; and the many conditions and applications associated with a firestop system’s use.
4.2 This guide provides general information and guidance that is primarily used by firestop contractors and firestop industry
inspectors of a firestop system. However, this guide should also be used by others, such as architects, engineers, specifiers, etc.
Some of the information referenced in this guide provides resources for additional information not contained in the manufacturer’s
installations, the firestop system’s test report, and listing. Information contained in this guide also allows a single source for a
general comparison of firestop materials used during the installation of firestop systems.
4.3 This guide discusses general procedures, such as substrate cleaning and priming, as well as installation of the components of
a firestop system.
NOTE 2—The term “substrate” has a particular meaning in engineering. A substrate is defined as the “basic surface on which a material adheres, for
example, paint or laminate.”
4.4 This guide explains the general properties and functions of various penetrating items and firestop materials.
4.5 This guide presents general guidelines for the application of the various materials used in the installation of a firestop system
for a specific application, and environmental conditions and effects that are known to potentially affect a firestop system’s
installation.
4.6 This guide is intended to be read completely at least once, and each of the Sections 1 through 19 should be read in their entirety
to avoid misunderstanding and misapplication.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms, Fifth Edition, 1994.
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4.7 This guide may also provide some value to users of IMO Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and other International Maritime
Organization (IMO) documents, including the IMO FTP Code, on fire testing firestop systems, also known as “penetration
systems.”
4.8 This guide is not an all-inclusive document. It is intended to address common sources for planning, preparation, and
installation of firestop systems. References to other documents made herein contain important information and details that provide
more in-depth knowledge of firestop systems and their installation.
4.9 This guide does not provide all of the specific information that is typically described in test reports, listings or judgments with
justifiable technical rationale for specific applications of firestop systems.
4.10 This guide is not a firestop system’s installation manual.
NOTE 3—The firestop system’s manufacturer should be consulted about applications for their firestop materials, including their proper storage, use, and
installation.
4.11 This guide does not provide detailed information about the firestop system’s inspection process or provide specific
information about firestop industry inspector’s qualifications and competence.
NOTE 4—Practice E2174 provides a method for on-site inspection of firestop systems. The ICC International Building Code references Practice E2174
under requirements for special inspections. Practice E3038 provides information for assessing and qualifying candidates as firestop industry inspectors
of firestop systems based on the candidate’s competence.
4.12 Except as discussed in 6.8, this guide does not provide information about “blank openings,” which involve an opening that
is sealed with firestop materials but does not have any penetrating items.
4.13 Test reports, listings, and judgments with justifiable technical rationale do not normally contain all the information needed
related to the aging, environmental, mechanical, and physical properties of the firestop system; or the longevity, durability, and
performance of the firestop system. This guide offers some resources to ascertain this supplemental information because these
characteristics can affect the firestop system’s installation and performance.
NOTE 5—Some information related to these performance characteristics of firestop systems or firestop materials is also found in: Test Method E2785,
which tests for exposure of firestop materials to environmental conditions; Test Methods E2786, which measures expansion of intumescent materials used
in firestop systems; and Practice E2923, which measures the relative movement capabilities of through-penetration firestop systems. Still, other
performance characteristics of the firestop system can be specified that are not contained in firestop system’s test report or listing may also be required,
such as surface flammability and smoke attributes determined by Test Method E84 or other similar standards (for example, CAN/ULC-S102, EN 13501-1,
NFPA 255, UL 723, etc).
5. Overview of Contents in this Guide
5.1 This guide provides an international compendium of general information regarding firestop systems and firestop materials. It
will save time in searching for the individual sources and compiling the information. In addition, many sources of supplementary
information are cited regarding the firestop system or firestop materials, or both. Many additional sources to periphery installation
information are referenced. All of this information should be useful to verify that the proper firestop system was designed, specified,
selected, installed, and inspected.
5.2 This guide establishes common terminology for the firestop industry that should be applied internationally because most of
these definitions are based on international standards and codes. These common definitions should help to increase international
understanding of firestop systems.
5.3 This guide illustrates how a firestop system sometimes has to perform a multitude of functions: for example, fire resistance,
water resistance, air leakage resistance, surface flammability resistance, smoke generation resistance, movement compatibility,
environmental resistance, sound resistance, etc. This guide recommends planning procedures to help verify a proper firestop system
“May” is used to indicate that a provision is optional.
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installation, which helps avoid poor performance of an installed firestop system. This guide increases life safety and knowledge
by increasing the industry’s awareness of these many other functions that a firestop system sometimes has to perform
simultaneously when properly installed. When these functions are obtained from differing test methods described in test reports
and listings, conflicts between the installations of firestop materials should be discussed and resolved prior to installation of the
firestop system.
5.4 This guide provides a summary of the various firestop systems and firestop materials, as well as their uses. These précises
provide a quick reference for general comparison, which should assist in expediting selection of an alternate firestop system when
field conditions have changed during the building’s construction.
5.5 This guide offers general information for preparation of the opening and substrates, as well as general instructions regarding
the storage and use of forming materials and packing materials. This information provides the firestop contractor and others a
general reference document.
5.6 This guide also presents some “tricks-of-the-trade” and observations when preparing for and conducting the installation of a
firestop system. These annotations should assist in reducing the installation time and help avoid compatibility conflicts between
installation materials and the firestop materials being used together.
6. General Information
6.1 Firestop systems are used throughout the world and are identified by other terms in other industries (for example, “penetration
systems”.systems”). Therefore, it is important to have a basic understanding of general information that could affect the installation
of firestop systems. This guide may also help those purchasing an installed firestop system understand the amount of time and
supplemental materials that the firestop contractor has to provide in order to achieve a quality installation.
6.2 Firestop systems are composed of parts. The first part is a fire-separating element. The second part is an opening created
through or into a fire-separating element. When the opening is only into one side of the fire-separating element, the firestop system
needed is called a membrane-penetration firestop system. When the opening is completely through the fire-separating element, the
opening is called a through-penetration and the firestop system needed is called a through-penetration firestop system. When the
opening is not completely through but into one side of the fire-separating element, the opening is called a membrane-penetration
and the firestop system needed is called a membrane-penetration firestop system. The next extremely important part of a firestop
system is at least one penetrating item (for example, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, telecommunication, or other service; or a
structural element (for example, beam column, etc.) that passes through or into the opening. The last part of a firestop system is
the application of one or more firestop materials.
6.3 Understanding relevant terminology is also critical in comprehending the firestop system’s test report or listing to verify proper
firestop system installations. Test Method E814 and the other North American test methods use the terms F-Rating and T-Rating
to describe limitations ascribed to flaming and temperature limitations, respectively, on the unexposed surface of the firestop
system. However, most other countries use the terms integrity and insulation to determine flaming and temperature limitations,
respectively.
6.4 In addition, UL 1479 has an optional L-Rating to assess air leakage as well as an optional W-Rating to evaluate water
resistance. Some in the industry refer to this optional L-Rating test as smoke leakage or cold smoke leakage. CAN/ULC-S115 also
has an optional L-Rating. However, no other test methods for firestop systems include these optional performance ratings: L-Rating
and W-Rating. The test report or listing, or both, should specially state an L-Rating for the firestop system to be considered as
smoke resistant. The test report or listing, or both, should specially state a W-Rating to be considered as water resistant.
NOTE 6—Throughout most of the world, firestop system and fire-resistive joint system requirements for fire performance are denoted in separate test
methods. CAN/ULC-S115 is a unique standard in that it references both firestop systems and fire-resistive joint systems called joint firestop systems in
one standard. However, this guide only addresses a firestop system as defined in CAN/ULC-S115.
6.5 To verify proper firestop system installations, the origin of the documents related to installation is extremely important.
Sometimes judgments with justifiable technical rationale are used as the basis of firestop system installations when the test report
or listing does not address the specific project application of a firestop system. Since judgments with justifiable technical rationale
are one of the installation sources, their origin is very important to verify that the firestop system installation is in compliance with
the project and code requirements. Often a judgment with justifiable technical rationale is used in lieu of firestop system’s test report
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or listing, or both. Therefore, it is important to know that fire test standards for firestop systems used in other countries are similar
but not identical. For example, all fire test standards for firestop systems require a positive furnace pressure. However, the degree
of positive pressure varies greatly between the requirement in the United States and other countries. This is important information
when firestop system’s test reports and listings are assessed to create judgments. This is also true of other conditions of these test
standards used to fire test firestop systems.
6.6 Some listings declare that the manufacturer’s instructions be followed for installation of the firestop system. It is possible that
the manufacturer’s instructions have changed from the time of fire testing and publication of the listing. Therefore, to assure the
manufacturer’s instructions are unchanged or still appl
...