About SBC Fit Out

Comprehensive Fire Protection

SBC Fit Out is a trusted specialist in fire protection services, based in Hampshire and operating nationwide. We work closely with clients during the planning, design, and installation stages to apply fire-stopping measures that enhance building safety and compliance. Our solutions are expertly designed to protect service penetrations through walls and floors while meeting stringent safety regulations.

Why choose us for Fire Protection?

• Expertise in fire-stopping materials and techniques

• Comprehensive support through planning and design phases

• Nationwide service with a focus on safety and compliance

Passive Fire Protection

Passive fire protection (PFP) plays a vital role in keeping buildings safe during fires. Unlike active systems like sprinklers or alarms that need to be triggered, PFP features are built into the structure, providing constant protection without needing to activate.

What is Passive Fire Protection?

PFP includes materials and systems designed to slow the spread of fire, protect a building’s structure, and give people more time to escape. By focusing on prevention and containment, PFP is a critical part of an effective fire safety strategy.

Key Components of Passive Fire Protection

1. Compartmentation

Buildings are divided into sections using fire-resistant walls and floors. This strategy slows down the spread of fire and smoke, giving people time to evacuate and making it easier for emergency teams to respond.

2. Fire-Resistant Materials

Using materials that can withstand high heat is essential in reducing fire damage. Examples include:

• Fire-rated doors and windows to stop fire from spreading.

• Intumescent paints that swell when heated to create an insulating layer.

• Fireproof sprays applied to steel to maintain its strength during a blaze.

3. Structural Steel Protection

Fire-resistant coatings or other protective materials are used to stop steel structures from warping or collapsing under extreme temperatures.

4. Firestopping

Openings or gaps in walls and floors, like those for pipes or cables, are sealed with fire-resistant materials. This blocks fire and smoke from moving between different areas of a building.

5. Fire Dampers and Smoke Dampers

Installed in ventilation ducts, these dampers automatically close when temperatures rise. This prevents fire and smoke from spreading through HVAC systems.

6. Fire-Resistant Cable Coatings

Electrical cables are coated with special materials to stay functional during a fire. This ensures critical systems, such as lighting and alarms, keep working when they are most needed.

Why is Passive Fire Protection Important?

Passive fire protection offers several essential benefits:

• Safer evacuations by slowing fire and smoke spread.

• Stronger building structures by protecting key components like steel.

• Compliance with fire codes required by many regulations.

• Cost savings through a comprehensive fire safety approach that reduces damage and lowers insurance risks.

Final Thoughts

Integrating passive fire protection into your building is more than meeting a legal requirement—it’s about saving lives and reducing fire damage. By combining methods like compartmentation, fire-resistant materials, structural protection, and firestopping, you create a safer environment for everyone inside.

For top-tier safety, passive and active fire protection systems work best together. Prioritize PFP in your building strategy for safety, peace of mind, and compliance.