Static field route #18923

What do I do when a fire/smoke damper sleeve gap is packed with regular fiberglass?

Fire/Smoke Dampers, Access Doors & Rated Assemblies🟥 STOP / VERIFYV189 answer-gap expansion

📖 Verified core answer

Regular insulation is not automatically an approved firestop. Stop cover, verify the listed assembly/firestop system, and replace improper packing with the approved material/detail.

Open in Field Rescue Open category

Field verification checklist

Confirm wall rating, damper type, sleeve, retaining angles, and gap condition.
Check the damper manufacturer installation sheet and approved firestop detail/submittal.
Identify whether the existing material is approved for that exact assembly.
Stop wall/shaft cover until the firestop condition is corrected and documented.
Take photos before and after correction for inspection/closeout.

Ask foreman

The FSD sleeve at [location] has regular insulation packed around the wall gap. I checked the damper tag and wall rating. Do you want this removed and replaced per the approved firestop/listed assembly before cover?

Text to foreman

Route options

AMake the field correction only if it is within your assignment and the approved method.

BHold and document the condition if the fix affects airflow, access, life safety, pressure class, rated assemblies, equipment, or another trade.

CBring the foreman/detailer the location, what you checked, and what decision you need before cover, startup, or rework.

Do not do this

Do not let a rated damper sleeve get buried with unverified packing around it.

Why this matters

Improper firestopping around a damper sleeve can fail inspection and compromise a rated assembly.

Verification basis

Approved drawings/specs, project coordination drawings, manufacturer instructions/submittals, shop standards, foreman/detailer direction, employer policy, and AHJ/code requirements.