Construction and Renovation Projects Call for Firestop Inspections





By John P. Sinisi  
OTHER PARTS OF THIS ARTICLEPt. 1: Facility Alterations Can Affect Firestop SystemsPt. 2: What is a Firestop?Pt. 3: Inspect HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing Rooms for Firestop BreachesPt. 4: Doors and Ceilings Crucial to Firestop SystemsPt. 5: This PagePt. 6: Fire Safety: Who is Accountable?


In facilities where construction or installation work has taken place but no firestop inspections have occurred, managers should take a look at fire and smoke walls immediately. Making necessary repairs to fire-containment systems and documenting the work will help the organization comply with building codes.

Managers whose facilities are in the middle of a construction, renovation or installation project must make contractors aware of the need to install and verify the proper firestop systems. Managers also should make it a point to include firestop installation and inspection in any projects they undertake.

Firestop systems are one part of a fire-prevention and fire-suppression system. Additional steps:

• Test all sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers and smoke and fire detectors regularly to ensure they are in proper operating condition.

• Make sure building staff and occupants know how to use fire extinguishers properly.

• Follow all rules and regulations — those mandated by law and those mandated by common sense — to prevent fires.

• Develop or update an evacuation plan in the event of a fire, post it, and practice it.




Contact FacilitiesNet Editorial Staff »

  posted on 1/1/2009   Article Use Policy




Related Topics: