| Abstract | This Best Practice Guide presents a broad-based consensus on technical solutions relating to the fire resistance and sound transmission aspects of fire stops and fire blocks for those who manufacture, design, specify, install and inspect these systems. The Guide was developed through collaboration of many organizations in the Special Interest Group on Suitable Acoustic and Fire Stop Technologies (SIG-SAFT).The Guide primarily addresses fire stops and fire blocks in the context of Canadian codes and standards. Requirements for fire stops and fire blocks in the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) are conceptually similar to those in U.S. codes but significant differences between Canadian and American codes, standards, and terminology are identified. The Guide also identifies differences from the NBCC that have been approved in provincial building codes. The Best Practice Guide is not intended for use as a code document. While the Guide makes extensive reference to the NBCC as the source of requirements for fire stops and fire blocks in Canada, there are situations where best practice may require features beyond the NBCC requirements. These are addressed in many examples in Chapters 7 through 13, which illustrate good practice for fire stops at junctions and penetrations (plumbing, electrical, ventilation), combined with guidance on the corresponding acoustical issues such as noise leaks, plumbing noise, and structure-borne sound transmission. The authority having jurisdiction would decide on acceptance of such solutions, but it is hoped that the Guide will promote more informed and consistent practice across Canada for fire stops and fire blocks. |
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