Are duct openings that penetrate corridors required to be protected with dampers?

Duct openings that penetrate corridors are indeed required to be protected with dampers due to fire safety regulations. The purpose of this requirement is to maintain the integrity of fire-rated assemblies, such as corridor walls, which are designed to limit the spread of smoke and fire within a building.

When ducts penetrate these fire-rated corridors, they can create a pathway for smoke and heat to travel, potentially compromising the safety of occupants and the effectiveness of fire protection systems. By incorporating dampers, specifically fire dampers, into the ductwork at the points where they penetrate the corridor, the flow of smoke and flames can be effectively controlled.

This helps to ensure that, in the event of a fire, smoke is contained, allowing for safer evacuation routes and limiting damage to the structure. Proper installation and maintenance of dampers are crucial in achieving the intended safety outcomes in compliance with building codes and fire safety regulations. The requirement for dampers emphasizes the importance of structural fire protection strategies in commercial buildings.