Penetration Sealing Systems

Module 1: The IFC Core Module (Passive Fire Protection)

The morning’s ‘discussion led’ Core Module is divided into three parts:

a: Introduction

Beginning with an introduction and overview to the International Fire Consultants Group, the module examines the question of ‘Why are you here?’ and the reasons why the installation of fire systems should be undertaken correctly. We examine the consequences of when installation is not carried out competently and correctly; supplemented with real world examples of actual fires.

b: Regulation

We then review and discuss a range of relevant documentation that is available i.e the regulation guidance in the UK and the associated Approved Documents to the Building Regulations. This will cover the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order (RRO) and the Risk Assessment process.

After looking at and considering the importance of third party certification for products and installers and CE marking, we introduce delegates to the premise of passive and active fire protection providing brief details about active fire protection and smoke control.

c: Fire & Fire Testing

The third session of the morning starts with asking ‘What is Fire?’ and explains some of the more important terminology and key causes of building fires. Fire tests are also examined with respect to large scale ‘Fire Resistance’ tests and ‘Reaction-to-Fire’ testing, ending with a final look at the European guidance and the European fire testing.

Module 2: The IFC Penetration Sealing Systems Module

This comprehensive and practical module (delivered in the afternoon) provides the reasoning, knowledge and critical understanding of the important issues that must be addressed when conducting installation, maintenance and inspections of penetration sealing systems.

a: Introduction

The module begins with a comprehensive introduction to the sealing of openings in fire separating elements and looks to inform attendees about relevant regulations, (specifically the Building Regulations and Approved Document B, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order picking up on the specific items relating to fire stopping). We then examine in the detail how the penetration sealing systems are fire tested both in terms of the non-existent British Standard and the European Standard.

b: Main Session
The primary element of the course concentrates on the key aspects of the installation of many of the different products and systems available, understanding the preparation requirements, how to select the most appropriate systems for the right situation, the various benefits of the most widely used systems and what considerations should be taken with these. The session is supported by several real life/on-site photographic examples.

The course moves on to look at ducts and dampers as variations of service penetrations and what is required to maintain the fire separation between compartments. We will review the installation of some of the different products and systems used for linear gap sealing, including the commonly used intumescent fire sealant, as well as the maintenance of penetration sealing systems, labelling and keeping appropriate records. The day is completed with a brief reference to additional and useful sources of information.