JOINTS & PENETRATIONS
IN RATED CONSTRUCTION

What’s the difference between a penetration and a joint? When do they need protection? In this series, we explore firestopping requirements, listed systems, and engineering judgments. We also cover joint types, show examples of through-penetration assemblies, and provide visual aids and flowcharts to guide decision-making in the field in this 8-part series.
Our objectives include:
- Understand the difference between penetrations and joints in rated assemblies, and when each requires protection.
- Become familiar with listed systems, engineering judgments, and how to apply them in fire-resistance-rated construction.
- Be capable of identifying common joint and penetration types in the field and interpreting documentation to determine compliance.
LS153 - 2025 - 1.0 HOUR
MODULES
MEET THE INSTRUCTORS
Steven Barrett, PE
Fire Protection Engineer IV at SmithGroup | Chicago, Illinois, USA
Steven Barrett is a licensed professional engineer in the discipline of fire protection with over 14 years of design experience in the practice of fire protection, fire alarm, building code, and life safety in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry. Mr. Barrett is the Fire Protection Discipline Leader for the SmithGroup Midwest Region (including Madison, Milwaukee, Detroit, Pittsburgh, and Chicago – the office where he is based). Mr. Barrett is also an adjunct professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, Illinois where he teaches Plumbing and Fire Protection Design in the Civil and Architectural Engineering Department to bachelor’s and master’s students.

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Our goal is to improve fire protection practices worldwide. We promote the industry by creating helpful tools and resources, and by bringing together industry professionals to share their expertise. MeyerFire, LLC is a NICET Recognized Training Provider and an International Code Council Preferred Education Provider.
Our goal is to improve fire protection practices worldwide. We promote the industry by creating helpful tools and resources, and by bringing together industry professionals to share their expertise. MeyerFire, LLC is a NICET Recognized Training Provider and an International Code Council Preferred Education Provider.

We respect your privacy and personal data. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. The views, opinions, and information found on this site represent solely the author and do not represent the opinions of any other party, nor does the presented material assume responsibility for its use. Fire protection and life safety systems constitute a critical component for public health and safety and you should consult with a licensed professional for proper design and code adherence.
Copyright MeyerFire, LLC © 2025
Copyright MeyerFire, LLC © 2025
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Understanding Use & Occupancy
LS101 | 1.5 Hours
Introduction to Codes & Standards
LS001 | 1.5 Hours
In this series, we explore foundational concepts around building codes and standards. What is a building code? A model code? How are codes & standards developed? What codes & standards apply to my project? How is the IBC organized? What is a prescriptive versus a performance-based requirement? We explore all this an more in this introductory series.