Which term refers to connections used not just for structural reasons but also for fire protection?

The term that denotes connections utilized for both structural integrity and fire protection is firestopping joints. These joints are specifically designed to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases between different areas of a building, thereby enhancing safety during a fire event. The inclusion of fire-resistant materials in these joints ensures that they can withstand higher temperatures and contribute to overall fire prevention strategies within a structure.

In contrast, construction joints primarily serve the purpose of allowing for the assembly and disassembly of building elements and may not necessarily be designed with fire protection in mind. Expansion joints are intended to accommodate the movement of materials due to thermal expansion and contraction, and their focus is on managing structural movement rather than fire safety. Movement joints are similar, as they are used to facilitate movement and prevent cracking in materials during different environmental conditions but do not specifically address fire containment. This distinction highlights the unique characteristics of firestopping joints and their critical role in fire protection within building construction.