Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1081695
publishing valuable information and working with industry professionals to increase awareness of proper firestop practices. Of course, when it comes to better understanding the specific code requirements of an individual construction project, always contact the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). The code official has a clear understanding of building requirements and experience gained from a multitude of similar construction projects. SUMMARY Firestop systems, not individual firestop products, achieve ratings based on evaluation to the appropriate standards described herein. Whether a firestop system or a firestop product, it is only as effective as the manner in which it is installed. A good installation will be consistent with the characteristics described in the firestop system. A well thought out selection of a firestop product will ensure the building's needs are maintained as the various service elements are changed or expanded. Unfortunately, a firestop system can be rendered ineffective if installed or reinstalled improperly. Installation practices considered improper include inappropriate mixing of products, using materials other than those tested as part of a firestop system, not following the parameters of a firestop system, and penetrations that are not protected at all or where protection has been removed or reduced over time. Such a system has no integrity and presents a safety hazard, rather than being an important component of a building's life-safety system with a strong offensive line. AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY: Justin Pine, RCDD is a Project Engineer and Product Specialist with Specified Technologies Inc. He currently volunteers for BICSI's TI&M committee and serves as a Subject Matter Expert Technical Lead for Firestopping. Justin can be reached at JPine@STIFirestop.com. REFERENCES: 1. UL , Residential Furnishings Side by Side, https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=LsReYgKpHbE 62 I ICT TODAY THE FIRST STEP TO DATA CENTER DESIGN EXPERTISE DC101: Introduction to Data Center Design A self-paced, online course designed to cover foundational knowledge of data center design. Learn the fundamentals: data center design process, design criteria, systems, components,sustainability, commissioning and maintenance. bicsi.org/dc101