What Is Passive Fire Protection?

Passive fire protection refers to the structural components of a building that help prevent the spread of fire and smoke. These elements are built into the design of a property and do not require activation to function. Instead, they work by compartmentalising fire and maintaining the integrity of escape routes. Key components of passive fire protection include:

• Fire-resistant walls, floors, and ceilings – Designed to contain fire within a specific area and prevent it from spreading.
• Fire doors and windows – Specially designed to withstand high temperatures and stop fire from advancing into different sections of a building.
• Firestopping and sealing – Seals gaps and penetrations in walls, floors, and ceilings to prevent the passage of flames, smoke, and toxic gases.
• Intumescent coatings – A type of fireproof paint that expands when exposed to high temperatures, providing additional insulation and delaying structural damage.