The GAME CHANGER in Fire Stopping - “Think Inside the Box” Traditional fire stopping methodology is being challenged by BOSS FyreBox™. In the past, building consents were issued with a basic fire engineering report with little if any reference to specific fire stopping systems. Architects did not specify any fire stopping product or systems prior to consent and consequently there was very little for the QS to base budgets on. Traditionally, each trade tried their hand at doing their own fire stopping or sub-contracting it out to specialist passive fire installers at considerable cost. Compliance was the next hurdle and the cost of re-works and rectifications of noncompliant installations resulted in huge budget blow-outs. When it is left to passive fire stopping installers to specify the penetration seal, often their go-to option is the most labour-intensive option. This can often be due to the installer being on a charge out rate, or due to quoting per penetration. By quoting multiple separate penetrations they can get away with charging more. Commonly, the installers may not co-ordinate with other contractors or the project managers resulting in the substrate not being prepared appropriately or the timing of the installations not being sequenced effectively. With the introduction of new technology in fire mastics, the highpressure expanding mastic (HPE) has paved the way for a multiple service - single point of entry – transit box to be developed. BOSS FyreBox™ Tested to AS1530.4 (2014) the BOSS FyreBox™ can provide up to FRR -/120/120 and is capable of protecting the full range of 30
Issue 18
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September 2019
apartment services through a single penetration. When installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications it is compliant and cost effective on a supply and install basis.
The specialist fire installation contractor is often not consulted in this process and the preparation of the building element (and the timing of this activity) leads to un-budgeted costs.
