The School of Brickology - Firestopping in Masonry

The School of Brickology - Firestopping in Masonry is a self-paced, free program designed to equip bricklayers, site managers, and construction professionals with essential knowledge and practical skills in passive fire protection. This course covers the critical role of fire stopping in masonry walls, providing a comprehensive overview of UK building regulations, NHBC and LABC requirements, and key standards such as BS 476 and EN 1366. Participants will learn the principles of fire stopping, including compartmentation, fire resistance ratings, fire pathways, and the balance between air tightness and fire protection. The program explores a wide range of fire-stopping materials, from mortars and intumescent products to fire boards, cavity barriers, collars, wraps, and fire-rated cavity closers, with a focus on their correct application and mechanical fixings. Installation best practices are covered in detail, guiding learners through the preparation of openings, installation of sealants, batt and board systems, cavity barriers, and fire collars, as well as highlighting common installation errors. The course also addresses inspection and compliance, including site inspection protocols, recording and labelling, LABC and NHBC requirements, and the differences between refurb and new build projects. Case studies and practical learning modules provide real-world context, featuring high-rise building scenarios, lessons from fire failures, and manufacturer demonstrations. The program concludes with quizzes, a badge for Fire Stop Specialist, and a certificate of completion, ensuring participants are well-prepared to implement effective firestopping in masonry construction.