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:

  1. Understand the difference between penetrations and joints in rated assemblies, and when each requires protection.
  2. Become familiar with listed systems, engineering judgments, and how to apply them in fire-resistance-rated construction.
  3. 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.