What is the impact of installing a firestop improperly?

Installing a firestop improperly can lead to increased fire hazards, which is why this is the correct answer. Firestops are essential components in passive fire protection systems; they are designed to impede the spread of fire and smoke through openings in fire-resistance-rated walls and floors. When a firestop is not installed correctly, it can create pathways that allow flames and hot gases to move more freely, diminishing the fire-rating effectiveness of the barriers it was meant to protect.

Inadequate installation might result in gaps or voids that expose structural elements and flammable materials to fire, thereby increasing the risk of fire spreading rapidly throughout a building. This could lead to potential loss of life, property damage, and difficulties for fire suppression efforts. The importance of an effective firestop cannot be overstated, as it is critical to maintaining the safety and integrity of fire-rated assemblies.