Fireproofing facts for kids

Fireproofing is a special way to protect buildings and other important things from fire. It helps them stay strong and safe for longer if a fire starts. Think of it like giving a building a superhero shield against flames! This is a type of passive fire protection, which means it works automatically without anyone needing to do anything when a fire happens.

Different things can be fireproofed to different levels. Some things are made to resist fire for a short time, while others can last much longer, giving people more time to escape and firefighters more time to put out the fire.

Spray gypsum-based plaster fireproofing being installed.

Fireproofing on cable trays, using special boards.

Damaged spray fireproofing made of rockwool, cement and other materials.

What is Fireproofing?

Fireproofing is all about making sure that parts of a building or structure can handle the heat and damage from a fire. It helps them keep their shape and strength, instead of collapsing quickly. This is super important for safety!

Imagine a tall building. If a fire starts, the metal beams and columns that hold it up can get very hot. When metal gets too hot, it becomes soft and can bend or break. Fireproofing helps prevent this by protecting these parts.

How Does Fireproofing Work?

Fireproofing works in different ways, but the main goal is to slow down how quickly heat reaches important parts of a building.

One common way is to use materials that don't burn easily or that expand when heated. These materials create a protective layer around things like steel beams, concrete, or wooden structures.

Different Ways to Fireproof

• Sprays: Some fireproofing materials are sprayed onto surfaces, like a thick paint. These often look like a fluffy, grey coating. They might be made from materials like gypsum (which is in plaster) or special fibers.
• Boards: For other areas, special fire-resistant boards can be used. These are like strong, non-flammable sheets that are wrapped around or attached to parts of a building.
• Paints: There are also special paints called intumescent paints. When these paints get hot, they puff up and create a thick, foamy layer. This foam acts like an insulator, protecting the material underneath from the heat.

Why is Fireproofing Important?

Fireproofing is a key part of making buildings safe. It helps save lives and reduces damage.

Saving Lives

When a building is fireproofed, it gives people more time to get out safely. If the structure stays strong for longer, stairwells and exits remain usable. This extra time can be the difference between life and death.

Protecting Property

It also helps protect the building itself and everything inside it. By slowing down the fire's spread and preventing collapse, fireproofing can reduce the overall damage. This means less money is needed for repairs after a fire.

Following Rules

Many countries have strict building rules and laws that require fireproofing. These rules are in place to make sure buildings are safe for everyone who uses them, from homes to schools and hospitals.

Images for kids

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  Damaged spray fireproofing made of rockwool, cement and admixtures at a Toronto car dealership; 28 December 2013.

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  Intumescent spray fireproofing product has expanded.

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  Penetrations of structural beams. The installation is incomplete, as the beams are not yet treated with fireproofing. If left as-is, they would collapse in a fire, resulting in openings in the fire separation wall.

See also

In Spanish: Ignifugidad para niños