Difference between active and passive fire protection

Fire safety is a critical part of any building’s design and operation. Whether it is a residential apartment, a commercial building or an industrial unit, the risk of fire is ever-present. That’s why we rely on passive and active fire protection systems to keep people and property safe. Understanding the difference between active and passive fire protection is key to setting up a well-rounded fire safety strategy. This blog breaks down both systems so you can better protect your home or workplace.

What is passive fire protection (PFP)?

Passive fire protection is the system of built-in features within a structure that help contain or slow the spread of fire and smoke. These features, listed below, are always working, even if a fire hasn’t started yet.

Active fire protection examples

• Fire-rated walls, ceilings and floors
• Fire-resistant doors
• Firestop materials around ducts, cables and pipes
• Compartmentation (separating areas to contain fire spread)
• Fire-resisting cladding

Passive fire protection doesn’t need human intervention or power to work. It is always in place and forms the backbone of the fire defence.

Components of passive fire protection

Here’s a closer look at some of the most commonly used components in passive fire protection:

• Fire-resisting walls and floors: These help contain the fire in one room and stop it from spreading.
• Intumescent coatings: Paint-like substances that swell when exposed to high temperatures to provide insulation.
• Firestopping products: These are sealants, wraps or blocks used to close gaps in walls or floors where services pass through.
• Fire-rated doors: These are designed to withstand fire for a specific period (30 to 120 minutes typically).
• Compartmentation: Dividing a building into sections to contain fire and smoke within a limited area.

What is active fire protection (PFP)?

This system includes devices and actions that take steps to suppress, control or alert occupants during a fire. These measures require motion or triggering to become effective.

Whether it is automatic (like a smoke detector) or manual (like using a fire extinguisher), these systems actively respond when a fire occurs.

Active fire protection examples

Here are some widely used active fire protection system examples:

• Fire extinguishers
• Automatic sprinkler systems
• Smoke detectors and heat detectors
• Fire alarms
• Emergency lighting and exit signage
• Gas suppression systems
• Manual call points (break-glass alarms)

All these devices are designed to either alert, suppress or help you escape in the event of a fire.

Common applications of active fire protection

The active firefighting system in any structure relies heavily on the function of active components. Here’s where active systems are typically used:

• Commercial buildings: Offices and retail spaces use alarms and sprinklers for early fire detection and control.
• Warehouses: Fire suppression systems are critical due to flammable goods.
• Hospitals: Smoke detectors and gas suppression systems protect sensitive equipment and vulnerable patients.
• Residential apartments: Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are installed to deal with small fires.

These systems are part of the overall active and passive fire protection system, which works in tandem to protect lives and assets.

Difference between active and passive fire protection

Let’s compare the active and the passive fire protection so you can see how both systems serve unique but complementary purposes:

Despite their differences, a strong fire safety system uses both passive and active elements for total protection.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between active and passive fire systems is crucial when planning your fire safety strategy. You can’t rely on just one approach. While passive elements like fire-rated doors and walls slow down the spread of fire, active systems like alarms and sprinklers are vital for fast response and evacuation.

Also, don’t forget the importance of being financially protected. A good fire insurance policy ensures that even in the unfortunate event of fire damage, you won’t face a financial crisis. With fire insurance, you can claim losses related to property and assets caused by fire. Combining passive and active fire protection ensures a stronger defence and more peace of mind.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.