What is the primary aim of passive fire protection?

• A. Provide temporary protection
• B. Resist fire through building materials and design
• C. Deliver fire suppression agents
• D. Ensure building aesthetics

Answer: (B)

Passive fire protection focuses on making the building itself resistant to fire by using fire-rated materials and design features. The main aim is to resist heat and flame, creating barriers that slow the spread of fire and keep compartments intact. This helps preserve structural stability and keeps escape routes usable long enough for occupants to exit and for firefighters to operate. Because it’s built into the fabric of the building and doesn’t rely on active systems, it works even if power is out. This is different from delivering fire suppression agents, which is an active protection approach, and it isn’t about aesthetics or temporary measures.