The continuity of a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating is maintained by installing a firestop system at the juncture where it abuts against another fire separation, a floor, a ceiling or a roof assembly. The continuity of a fire separation without a fire-resistance rating that abuts another fire separation is maintained by filling all gaps at the juncture of the assemblies with a fire-resistance-rated joint firestop system that will ensure the integrity of the fire separation at that location.
Test methods for the evaluation of joint systems are described in CAN/ULC-S115, “Standard Method of Fire Tests of Firestop Systems,” which covers joint systems between adjacent fire-resistance-rated assemblies and between a fire-resistance-rated floor and a non-fire-resistance-rated exterior wall. ASTM E2307, “Standard Test Method for Determining Fire Resistance of Perimeter Fire Barriers Using Intermediate-Scale, Multi-storey Test Apparatus,” is a test method applicable to joint systems between a fire-resistance-rated floor and a non-fire-resistance-rated exterior wall.
Fire-resistance-rated joint firestop systems can be tested and listed as either static or dynamic. Dynamic joint firestop systems are subjected to movement cycling prior to undergoing fire testing at maximum joint extension. This approach ensures that the fire-resistance rating of the joint firestop system will be maintained even after the joint has cycled through its anticipated range of movement over the service life of the building. Most joints between fire-resistance-rated assemblies, other than those between loadbearing elements, experience some movement over the service life of the building.