Which of the following must comply with Section 717 when penetrating fire-resistance-rated exterior walls?

The requirement for compliance with Section 717 when penetrating fire-resistance-rated exterior walls pertains to both air ducts and air transfer openings due to their potential role in the spread of fire and smoke. Section 717 lays out the standards for fire safety in building construction, and specifically addresses how these components must be installed to maintain the integrity of fire-resistance-rated assemblies.

Air ducts are conduits for air circulation and can carry smoke and heat from one area to another, increasing fire risk if they bypass fire-rated barriers. Thus, they must be constructed and sealed to limit this risk.

Air transfer openings, on the other hand, are designed to allow air movement between spaces but can also permit smoke to travel across fire-rated separations. As such, these openings need to meet specific fire-resistance standards to mitigate their impact as potential pathways for fire and smoke.

Both components must adhere to the code to ensure overall fire safety within commercial buildings. Compliance ensures that the integrity of the fire-resistance rating is maintained, providing necessary protection to occupants and property.