Penetrations and holes resulting from the removal of conduit or piping shall be ____________________________________.

• A. Left open
• B. Sealed with listed or equivalent liquidtight sealing devices.
• C. Plugged with cement
• D. Covered with tape

Answer: (B)

When a penetration is created by removing conduit or piping, it breaks the integrity of the fire barrier and can allow heat, flames, and smoke to pass through. To keep the barrier effective, that opening must be restored with products that are listed (or equivalent) for liquid-tight sealing. These sealing devices are specifically tested and approved to fit the opening type and environmental conditions, providing a durable, fire-resistive, and liquid-tight seal that maintains the barrier’s rated performance.

Leaving the opening open would defeat the purpose of the fire barrier. Using cement or tape isn’t the proper listed solution and can crack, fail under heat or grease exposure, or deteriorate over time. Sealing with listed liquid-tight devices ensures a reliable, code-approved restoration of the enclosure around the penetrations.