Which of the following is a key reason for firestopping?

The key reason for firestopping relates to its primary function, which is to prevent the spread of fire and smoke within a building. Firestopping is critical in maintaining the integrity of fire-rated assemblies, such as walls and floors, that are designed to contain fires and prevent them from moving easily from one area to another. By sealing openings and joints in these barriers with firestop materials, it helps to restrict the passage of both flames and smoke, thus providing occupants more time to evacuate safely and allowing fire services to combat a fire more effectively.

While improving energy efficiency, enhancing aesthetic appeal, and reducing sound transmission are important considerations in building design and construction, they are not the primary goals of firestopping. Instead, the main focus of firestopping systems is life safety and property protection by controlling fire dynamics within the building environment.