Joint systems
Firestop systems can effectively restore the hourly rating of fire-resistive assemblies that have been breached when electrical, plumbing or mechanical items are installed. Joint systems are used to prevent fire from spreading through linear openings between or within fire-resistive floor and/or wall assemblies.
For newly constructed buildings to earn safety certification, all products used in construction must comply with a complex set of codes. UL helps builders and inspectors meet these requirements by testing and rating a broad range of building materials and systems.
Ratings and test Standards
UL assigns the following ratings for firestop and joint systems based on the specific characteristics of each material or system:
- F rating for passage of flame
- T rating for fire and temperature
- L rating based on the amount of air and smoke leakage
- W rating based on water resistance
UL can create the fire exposure conditions of a fully developed building fire. Tests using horizontal and vertical furnaces and multi-story equipment ensure that buildings and their installed mechanical systems meet and maintain the hourly rating required for fire-resistive floor and wall assemblies.
UL tests and certifies firestop and joint systems to the current editions of the following Standards:
- UL 1479, Tests of Through-Penetration Firestops (ASTM E814)
- UL 2079, Tests for Fire Resistance of Building Joint Systems (ASTM E1966)
- ASTM E2307-04e1, Standard Test Method for Determining Fire Resistance of Perimeter Fire Barrier Systems Using Intermediate-Scale, Multi-story Test Apparatus
- CAN/ULC-S115, Standard Method of Fire Tests of Firestop Systems
- ISO 10295-1, Fire Tests for Building Elements and Components - Fire Testing of Service Installations - Part 1: Penetration Seals
The UL advantage
UL simplifies product certification by offering manufacturers of firestop materials and systems and joint systems a comprehensive, single-source evaluation and rating program. In addition, building inspectors recognize UL certification as their preferred certification organization for fire resistance testing. When certified building products are listed in UL's comprehensive directory, builders and inspectors can count on them to deliver reliable performance and meet rigorous regulatory standards. UL directories are referenced by more than 2,500 Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) and code officials each year. UL listing also helps manufacturers differentiate their products in the marketplace.
