What is meant by the term "firestop" in building construction?

A firestop is a system or material used in construction to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through gaps and penetrations in fire-rated walls, ceilings, and floors. It is designed to maintain the fire-resistance rating of the building by inhibiting the spread of flames, heat, and toxic gases between compartments of a building. Firestops can be made from various materials such as intumescent, cementitious, elastomeric, or silicone-based compounds, and are installed around openings created by pipes, ducts, cables, and other mechanical and electrical penetrations.

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