sundance-communications.com/forum Forums Wiring - Telecom Carriers - Trunks & Services Cabling Telephones Systems Wiring Firestopping?

There's been a lot of bad press recently where low-volt contractors are faulted for breaching fire walls during installation. A lot of that is coming from the IBEW, but some is also coming from the manufacturers of firestop products as well.

I know it's a problem, but I've seen plenty of BX/MC lines run through hammer holes above drop ceilings.

Do you guys use firestopping products, particularly in smaller jobs/MACs/retrofits, etc?

It seems like most buildings have existing holes large enough to utilize, but every now and then I'll visit a place that is tighter than a drum...

I have no love for the IBEW but I don't think you can blame them for making the codes.

And it's not just us. Any trade that "makes holes" is required to firestop them and that is not only for commercial but residential also.

I know what you are saying, you do a job in a place and there are holes all over. Unfortunately you are doing new work and you have to comply with the current code. Doesn't matter what else is there.

-Hal

I have no problem with the codes. It's the negative press I've seen the last few months. All of it pointing at low-volt installers as being 90% of the problem in firewall breaches. Obviously, the IBEW stands to gain by taking that stance, as it does by lobbying for laws requiring ALL cabling to be installed by licensed electricians.

I was just curious as to what others do when there are existing gaping holes with cabling running through them. It seems silly to route through a firestop product just a few feet away from an obvious breach.

Of course, selling your services to properly firestop the earlier damage seems like it might be profitable. I wonder how many customers would even care about all those holes once they saw the costs to repair, though.

The worst I've seen would have to be places where some dope removed several concrete blocks from a wall, creating an 18" hole. We're way beyond worrying about fire protection there!




[This message has been edited by UpstateNetworks (edited July 08, 2005).]

I believe NEC says if you see the hole. Then you are required by law to report it to the building owner or you could be held criminally liable.
Some northern states tighten the law and say last contractor out fills ALL holes. Whether you made it or not.

Alarm techs seem to love to leave holes behind. Best I've seen was a new hotel. Owner went with the low bid for cabling it. They used mud rings (no boxes) and 1 cat. 5 per room. Gave me 1 pair for T/R and used the rest for his high speed internet. I told the ower that the mud rings are agaist code (as I read it anyway). GC told him the same thing. The installers response was it was leagel as they have not been busted yet.

Any thoughts?

Steph

If it is indeed illegal in your area, there's a first time for everything! With an attitude like that, turn 'em in.