Getting Passive Fire Protection Right the First Time

In construction, there is no margin for error when it comes to fire safety systems, particularly passive fire protection (PFP). Getting it right the first time isn’t just good practice, it’s essential. It safeguards the integrity of compartmentation, the value of your work, and, ultimately, lives.

This is the driving force behind Protecta’s 2026 campaign:

PROTECT WHAT MATTERS – GET IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

This isn’t a slogan—it’s a shared responsibility. For main contractors, architects, fire engineers, inspectors, and installers, early and informed engagement with passive fire protection is a critical success factor in both design and build.

The Case for Early Engagement

Passive fire protection is not a bolt-on solution at the end of a project. It needs to be considered from the earliest design stages.

When Protecta is engaged early, we work closely with architects, fire consultants, and construction teams to:

• Identify compliant, cost-effective systems from our extensively tested portfolio
• Ensure all fire-stopping solutions align with design intent and fire strategy
• Prevent costly rework by flagging potential installation conflicts and sequencing issues

The earlier we collaborate, the more value we can bring—and the more risk we remove from your project.

Use Only Tested and Certified Solutions

Specifying a “fire-rated sealant” is no longer acceptable. Every installation must align with a tested and certified system that has been assessed under recognised standards such as:

• EN 1366 series (e.g. EN 1366-3 for service penetrations and EN 1366-4 for linear joints)
• EADs/ETAs for European Technical Assessments
• UKTAs for compliance with UK Building Regulations

Protecta has one of the largest libraries of fire-tested systems in Europe, and every solution is backed by formal third-party certification and Declaration of Performance (DoP) documentation.

Technical Support that Goes Beyond Spec Sheets

Products don’t solve problems—tested systems and support do.

Protecta offers end-to-end technical support that ensures:

• Accurate solution identification using our online Solution Finder
• Access to detailed Installation Instructions, test reports, and classification documents
• Project-specific advice through our Technical Team, available pre and post-installation

And in 2026, the Protecta Project Manager App will take this support further, providing full traceability, digital site documentation, and solution matching on-site on each fire-stopping project, and in real time.

Installers Need More Than Just a Toolbox

Installers are on the front line. Proper support reduces risk and prevents errors

Protecta ensures that installers:

• Receive comprehensive product training (in person or online)
• Are equipped with product documents, project packs and installation videos
• Can validate installations using our new App-based reporting tools, reducing admin and improving accountability

Helping Fire Inspectors Verify with Confidence

With increasing pressure on fire inspectors to enforce compliance, we aim to help simplify verification.

The Protecta Project Manager App has been developed with compliance and traceability in mind. It provides fire inspectors with real-time access to essential information and documentation, helping to streamline inspections, ensure full visibility, and support compliance with the Building Safety Act and the Golden Thread.

Here’s what’s available:

• Installation-Specific Data
  • Full details for each firestop installation, including:
    • Service type and configuration
    • Protecta system/products used
    • Fire rating of the detail
    • Pre and post-installation images (date- and user-stamped)
    • Contractor, installer and approver identification for traceability

• Verified Testing Information
  • Each marker can be linked to tested and approved solutions using the Solution Finder, with quick and easy access to installation instructions and other supporting documentation.

• On-Site Access via QR Codes
  • Each installed detail will be assigned a unique QR code, printed and affixed on-site. When scanned, this provides instant access to:
    • Installation detail, date installed and fire rating
    • Service type and configuration
    • Protecta system/products used
    • Pre and post-installation images (date- and user-stamped)
    • Contractor, installer and approver identification for traceability

• Secure Digital Record keeping
  • All project data is stored securely in the cloud, ensuring tamper-proof records of:
    • Images and floor plans
    • Changes or updates to markers
    • Generated reports (PDF format)

This system gives fire inspectors:

• A clear audit trail for every installation
• Instant visibility on which system has been used, who installed it and on what date
• Confidence in approving works that are verifiable, documented, and compliant

A Campaign Built Around Accountability and Education

The Protect What Matters – Get It Right the First Time campaign is designed to educate, equip, and empower professionals across the construction supply chain. Through 2026, we will deliver:

• Webinars and accredited training for specifiers, installers, contractors and more
• Installer toolkits including checklists, installation documents and videos,
• Product-specific landing pages
• Hot Seat Podcast episodes with experts discussing best practices, site challenges, and innovations
• Project-based access to key supporting documents, including ETA, UKTA, DoP, and relevant technical documents.

The Bottom Line

In today’s construction landscape, it’s not enough to tick the box. Passive fire protection must be:

• Properly designed
• Systems appropriately tested
• Correctly installed
• Fully documented

At Protecta, we’re committed to providing the tools, support, and training to ensure you get it right the first time—because when it comes to fire safety, second chances don’t exist.

Join us. Protect what matters.

Products developed and manufactured by Polyseam Ltd.