In nonfire-resistance-rated assemblies, noncombustible penetrating items can connect a maximum of how many stories?

In nonfire-resistance-rated assemblies, noncombustible penetrating items are allowed to connect a maximum of five stories. This guideline is grounded in building codes that aim to mitigate fire risks and ensure safety during emergencies. Noncombustible materials, by definition, do not contribute to fire growth and are safer because they limit the spread of flames, smoke, and toxic gases.

When nonfire-resistance-rated assemblies utilize penetrations, regulating how many stories these penetrations can pass through is critical in maintaining the compartmentalization of the building. By limiting noncombustible penetrations to five stories, the code strikes a balance between practical construction practices and maintaining safety standards. This rule helps in preserving the integrity of fire-rated separations in higher buildings and ultimately enhances occupant safety during a fire incident.