How can the effectiveness of a firestop system be tested after installation?

The effectiveness of a firestop system can be tested after installation by using smoke or fire testing methods specified in relevant codes. This approach is critical because it provides a systematic way to assess whether the firestop system can effectively contain fire and smoke, thereby fulfilling its intended purpose. Such testing methods are developed based on scientific principles and standardize results, allowing for consistent evaluation across various installations.

While visual inspections are important for identifying obvious issues with a firestop system, they do not comprehensively determine its effectiveness in a real fire scenario. Similarly, relying on the age of materials does not provide the necessary insight into whether the system remains effective after installation, nor does it consider any degradation that might occur over time. Checking the manufacturer's instructions, while helpful for ensuring installation was done correctly, does not evaluate the actual performance of the firestop in practice. Thus, testing methods specified in relevant codes remain the most reliable means for confirming the firestop system's effectiveness post-installation.