According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), sleeves are, “short lengths of conduit or raceway used to support and protect cables”. Prior to the advent of purpose made devices such as STI’s EZ-Path® Fire Rated Pathway, it was commonplace to use sleeves to run data comm cabling through fire-rated barriers.
Why do cable sleeves become non-compliant over time?
Cabling moves, additions, and changes (MACs) are commonplace, particularly in healthcare. Some firestop products, such as nonhardening putties, are actually designed to facilitate cable MACs. Sadly, as putty is removed, it can sometimes not be replaced or cables can be gradually added to existing sleeves to the point where firestop materials are displaced.
What happens when there is not enough firestop?
Firestop systems require a minimum amount of firestop to function properly in a fire situation. If insufficient firestop is installed, the cable sleeve can fail and allow fire to spread through the barrier. Unsealed or improperly sealed openings are a Top 10 healthcare deficiency according to results provided by The Joint Commission (TJC). Why is this even more important today? In August 2016, TJC revised the Statement of Conditions® (SOC) process. In the past, any deficiencies discovered during a survey could be added to a Plan for Improvement (PFI) and corrected systematically at a later date. Now, the healthcare organization is only allowed 60 days to correct deficiencies.
What can a healthcare organization do to mitigate the risk associated with overfilled sleeves?
STI is proud to announce a major addition to the EZ-Path® family. The EZ-Path® Retrofit Device is an easy to install system to retrofit existing overfilled sleeves. The two-piece split design installs around the cable bundle and locks onto the extended sleeve. It can even accommodate an existing bushing. It provides instant code compliance.
What sizes does the EZ-Path® Retrofit Device come in?
According to a survey of healthcare organizations around the country conducted by STI, the most common sleeve sizes are 2” and 4” trade size EMT or rigid metallic conduit (RMC). The EZ-Path® Retrofit Device is provided in 2” and 4” sizes.
What is the allowable cable fill?
Cable fill within the sleeve may represent 50 to 100 percent visual fill. If a cable fits, it is sealed!
Can EZ-Path® Retrofit Device be used in smoke barriers or smoke partitions?
Yes! L Ratings for the device are very low and comply with the requirements imposed by the NFPA 101, “Life Safety Code” for penetrations through smoke barriers and non-rated smoke partitions.
What if the sleeve does not extend or if there is no sleeve installed?
EZ-Path® Retrofit Device includes optional mounting tabs that can be used to attach the device directly to the barrier.
What about future cable MACs?
Like its EZ-Path® siblings, the Retrofit Device can allow for future expansion. If there is room, simply pull the new cables through the devices!
How quickly does EZ-Path® Retrofit Device install?
EZ-Path® Retrofit Device installs in minutes. Position the two halves around the cable bundle and sleeve. Tighten the screw and the steel plates lock the device onto the sleeve. It is that simple.
What about sleeves that are closely aligned?
The EZ-Path® Retrofit Device is designed to be installed in close quarters. The minimum spacing between sleeves should be about 1″ (25 mm).
Why is the EZ-Path® Retrofit Device square?
EZ-Path® Retrofit Device complements the look and feel of the entire EZ-Path® family. However, the square shape also accommodates cables that exit or enter sleeves at various different directions.
What is the hourly rating of the EZ-Path® Retrofit Device?
Up to 2 hours as a firestop system tested according to ASTM E814 (ANSI/UL1479).
Can the EZ-Path® Retrofit Device be installed in floors and walls?
Yes. UL Certified systems are available for both floors and walls.
Do firestop materials left in existing sleeves need to be removed prior to installation of EZ-Path® Retrofit Device?
No! While such materials may prevent future MACs, EZ-Path® Retrofit Device is tested to allow those materials to be left in place.