What issues should I look for with Fire Collars?

Fire Collars

Are simple devices, using intumescent contained in a metal cage (this directs the expansion of the intumescent inside) so that it can crush a plastic service & fill the void left behind. These are the most reliable and trusted products in the industry – providing they are installed correctly.

Installation of a collar is often simple, locating the collar to the ceiling or wall surrounding a pipe or service. Securing the claim to ensure it will not slide, pushing it flush to the wall or ceiling and fixing it using the manufacturers recommended screws. Depending on manufacturer it may require sealant to be applied to the opening as a smoke seal (consult manufacturers specifications).

However, this can easily be done incorrectly if those steps are not followed. In Evolutions years of experience we’ve seen hundreds if not thousands of collars half way down a pipe, missing fixings or just floating in place with no substrate anywhere near it. 

Collars are not magic and yet there seems to be a lack of care or due diligence with the simple task. One that anyone could in theory install with reletive ease (if they can certify it however is unlikely without the proper accreditations, documents and proceedures). But providing they have done the installation correctly as per the manufacturers specification there is no installation reason for that collar not to work. This would be dependent on the collars manufacturer and their documentation and testing.