What does the term "through-penetration" refer to in firestop applications?

The term "through-penetration" specifically refers to situations where pipes, cables, or other building components pass through fire-rated barriers, such as walls and floors. This type of penetration creates an opening that can compromise the integrity of the fire separation, allowing fire and smoke to spread from one area to another. Firestop applications are critical in these scenarios to seal the gaps around the penetrations safely.

In firestop installations, it is essential to use appropriate materials and methods to ensure that fire-resistant properties are maintained and that the barrier continues to perform as intended even with these penetrations in place. Proper management of through-penetrations is crucial for fire safety in buildings, making option C the correct choice.