Fire stopping is the practice of sealing openings and joints in walls, floors, and ceilings to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and heat. It involves the use of fire-resistant materials, such as sealants, coatings, and barriers, which can contain and control the spread of flames within a building. This measure is critical in maintaining the integrity of fire-rated assemblies and ensuring the safety of building occupants during a fire emergency.

Intumescent paint is a fire-resistant coating applied to structural elements, such as steel beams, to enhance their fire protection. When exposed to high temperatures, the paint expands and forms an insulating layer, which slows down heat transfer and helps maintain the structural integrity of the materials during a fire. This protective barrier extends the time before the structural elements reach critical failure temperatures, providing crucial time for evacuation and firefighting efforts.