FIREPROOFING, FIRESTOP and FIRE BLOCK

Understanding the difference is important if you want to build to the code. 

As much as I talk about firestop, I have to admit that it is not as critical as the structural integrity of a building.  

Fireproofing materials, more appropriately known as Spray Applied Fire Resistive Material (SFRM) is applied to structural members because steel loses 50% of its structural integrity at 1000F and that is the temperature inside the furnace during a fire test that hits the 5 minute mark.  

Thinner concrete members often require SFRM to maintain the fire rating.  

When these structural elements are not properly protected the structural integrity of the building is at risk.  

So when you see fire proofing missing, this is something that needs to be taken care of.  

Each project team has a different procedure, but as long as everyone knows what to do, the entire team can build better.  

What is your teams process?