We have a construction site that has about a year of construction to go. There were many penetrations in the two-hour floor for patient toilets, etc. It will be a while before they fill in these penetrations. The contractor stuffed some sort of insulation- probably not the correct type. How should I deal with firestop during construction? Should it be a submittal from the GC? Are there actual UL listed details for "temporary firestop while under construction"?
Mary Alice,
I will address this in three different ways as there are two different firestop routes and another non-firestop route you can take here:
- A Hilti firestop system is designed for the life of the building. This means if you install the correct UL/cUL/Intertek listed system now, then you will not need to go back and "fix" the penetrations at a later date. This would be Hilti's recommendation to ensure the building is appropriately firestopped from the beginning.
- If you are looking for a temporary firestop solution, you certainly can install a listed system now and then go back and remove then install another listed system if you need to change it for whatever reason. Hilti does not have any designation for "temporary" solutions as, again, firestop is designed to last the life building.
- If you are unable to install a listed system at this time for whatever reason, Hilti would recommend working with your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to ensure you are addressing the penetrations per the AHJ's specifications. However, this option falls outside the scope of Hilti since the application would not be in accordance with the IBC.
I would recommend reaching out to a local code official and/or your AHJ to see what type of solution is needed. If you need a firestop solution, then Hilti is happy to assist you!
Thank you,
Jessica Starks
Senior Fire Protection Engineer