NBC 2025 Guide: Fire-Stop Systems for Service Penetrations | London, Ontario
Sarah's Expert Insight
Senior Consultant at empcontracting.ca Inc.
"In London, Ontario, the 2025 NBC updates place a stricter emphasis on the continuity of fire separations, making the selection of ULC-certified fire-stop systems non-negotiable for multi-residential and commercial builds. As empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we ensure that every penetration—from plumbing stacks to electrical conduits—is meticulously sealed to safeguard occupants and satisfy municipal inspections."
Introduction to NBC 2025 Fire-Stop Standards
The National Building Code of Canada (NBC) 2025 has introduced refined standards for fire-stop systems to ensure the integrity of fire separations in modern construction. Service penetrations—where pipes, ducts, or electrical conduits pass through fire-rated walls or floors—are critical vulnerabilities in a building's fire safety strategy. At empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we prioritize these technical details to ensure your project remains compliant and safe.
Understanding CAN/ULC-S115 Compliance
Under the NBC 2025, any service penetration must be sealed using a fire-stop system that has been tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-S115, 'Standard Method of Fire Tests of Firestop Systems.' This testing ensures that the material used can prevent the passage of flame and hot gases for a duration equal to the required fire-resistance rating of the assembly it penetrates.
F-Ratings and FT-Ratings Explained
The code distinguishes between F-ratings (flame) and FT-ratings (flame and temperature). While an F-rating focuses on stopping the spread of fire, an FT-rating also measures the time it takes for the temperature on the non-fire side to rise significantly. In many high-density residential and commercial applications in London, specific FT-ratings are now mandatory to protect egress routes and structural components.
Critical Requirements for Mechanical and Electrical Services
The NBC 2025 mandates that service penetrations for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems do not compromise the integrity of fire separations. This includes:
- Combustible vs. Non-combustible Piping: Specific fire-stop collars or intumescent wraps are required for plastic pipes that might melt or deform during a fire.
- Annular Space Management: The gap between the service and the edge of the opening must be precisely filled according to the manufacturer’s tested assembly instructions.
- Continuity of Performance: The fire-stop system must remain effective despite the thermal expansion or vibration typical of building services.
Professional Installation and Inspection
Compliance is not just about the product, but the application. Building inspectors in London, Ontario, look for documented evidence that fire-stop systems match the specific ULC design numbers listed in the architectural plans. Partnering with empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, ensures that every penetration is documented, labeled, and installed by trained professionals who understand the nuances of the 2025 code updates.