IDF Closets

[ellism14]

We are starting to monitor and document all penetrations through fire, smoke and non-rated walls. We are running into data closets that do not appear to have fire rated walls yet there are sleeves packed with STI Intumescent Putty. This is leading people to question if the walls are actually fire rated. Does anybody know if the walls to an IDF closet have to be fire rated? If so can anyone cite the code.
Thank You

 

[hbiss]

What possibly would be in an IDF closet that would require a fire rated enclosure? Perhaps some IT professional's mind would want to keep fire from destroying the precious equipment inside.

So there is no code other than perhaps the fire rated partition was already there and the closet built later using it as a side or two.

-Hal

 

[tom baker]

Perhaps the contractors just use fire putty as standard practice, instead of not doing so and then getting a call back
Your question is a bit outside the scope of this forum. There is only one reference in the NEC to fire stopping in 300.21, and most often the fire stop requirements are enforced by the building AHJ. The NEC does regulate the type of cables for wiring. Your question may depend on the type of building construction, occupancy, etc. The building plans would be a good place to start.