What is the primary purpose of firestopping?

The primary purpose of firestopping is to minimize fire damage and contain it within specific areas of a building. Firestopping involves using various materials and techniques to seal openings and joints in fire-rated walls, floors, and ceilings, thereby preventing the passage of flames, heat, and smoke from one compartment to another. By doing so, firestopping plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of fire-rated assemblies and ensuring that fires do not spread uncontrollably, which ultimately protects both lives and property.

This function is essential in building design and safety protocols, emphasizing the importance of compartmentalization in fire protection strategies. While improving aesthetics, energy efficiency, and access to service systems may have benefits in building design and construction, they do not capture the primary safety objective of firestopping, which is focused on fire containment and minimizing potential hazards during a fire event.