Speaking with International Fire & Safety Journal, Peter Schmitt, Head of Technical for North America at Siderise, explains the vital role cavity barriers play in preventing fire spread within modern façade systems and outlines the importance of correct specification, installation and collaboration throughout a building’s lifecycle. Schmitt explains that modern façades often contain concealed voids and ventilation cavities that can allow flames and hot gases to spread rapidly through the chimney (or stack) effect if left unprotected. Properly designed cavity barriers restore compartmentation within the building envelope by restricting fire spread while allowing ventilation and drainage during normal operation. Intumescent cavity barriers remain open in everyday conditions but expand when exposed to heat to seal cavities during a fire. Why cavity barriers are critical for façade fire safety