Palokatkat

Palokatkat, or fire stops, are passive fire protection elements used in building construction to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through openings in fire compartments. They are installed at penetrations and joints through walls, floors, and ceilings, including penetrations for pipes, cables, and ducts, as well as around expansion joints. Their purpose is to maintain compartment integrity, support safe evacuation, and provide firefighters with better access and time to respond.

They encompass a range of materials and systems designed to seal and restore the fire resistance of a structure. Common approaches include mineral wool or gypsum boards, cementitious mortars, and intumescent sealants; rigid blocks or boards used to fill larger openings; and metal firestop collars or wrapping around penetrating services. The selected system depends on the size and type of opening, the services involved, and the required fire-resistance rating. Fire stop products are tested and certified to European and national standards and carry ratings such as EI30, EI60, or EI120, indicating the duration of fire resistance.

Regulatory context: In Finland, palokatkat are integral to fire safety design and must be specified in construction documents and permits. Installations are governed by national building regulations and aligned with European fire safety standards (for example, EN 1366 series and related classifications). Proper design also requires compatible materials for different services (pipes, cables, ducts) to maintain the intended fire rating.

Maintenance and inspection: Palokatkat require regular inspection, particularly during renovations or after events that could compromise seals. Damaged or degraded fire stops should be repaired or replaced to preserve the integrity of the fire compartment, and documentation of firestop performance should be maintained as part of building safety records.