According to fire protection codes, when should fire dampers be used?

Fire dampers are crucial safety devices designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through the air distribution system of a building. According to fire protection codes, they must be used in any air duct that passes through a two-hour fire-rated wall or partition. This requirement is in place because walls or partitions rated for two hours are specifically designed to withstand fire for that duration. By installing fire dampers in ducts that penetrate these barriers, the integrity of the fire-rated wall is maintained, effectively slowing or halting the spread of fire and smoke to other areas of the building.

This is particularly important in light commercial installations, where safety regulations need to be adhered to prevent catastrophic fire incidents. Thus, the use of fire dampers is mandated to ensure compliance with fire codes and enhance overall safety in the structure.