How should fire rated doors interact with firestop systems?

Fire rated doors play an essential role in maintaining the integrity of firestop systems within a building's overall fire protection strategy. The correct approach is that fire rated doors should be paired with firestop seals to ensure that any gaps around the door frame are effectively sealed, preventing the passage of smoke and flames during a fire event. This is critical for compartmentalization, which aims to contain fire and smoke within designated areas, allowing for safer evacuation and minimizing damage to the structure.

The combination of fire rated doors and firestop seals helps to maintain the door’s fire resistance ratings and ensures adherence to fire safety codes and standards. Utilizing these seals means that even in the event of a fire, the effectiveness of the door as a barrier against heat and flames is not compromised, allowing for a more robust overall fire protection system. Proper installation and use of firestop seals are key to maximizing the performance of fire rated doors in line with their intended purpose to enhance safety.