What is an example of a passive fire protection system?

A passive fire protection system is designed to contain fires or slow their spread without relying on any active intervention or mechanical means. Fire-rated walls and floors serve this purpose effectively by providing structural integrity and preventing the passage of smoke and flames between different compartments of a building. This containment feature is essential for allowing occupants more time to evacuate safely and for reducing the damage to property.

In contrast, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems are active fire protection methods. Fire alarms detect smoke or fire and are intended to alert occupants, while fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems actively suppress or extinguish a fire. These systems require some form of action or technology to function, whereas passive systems like fire-rated walls and floors are built into the structure itself and do not require active management during a fire incident.