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We replay a practical guide to firestop selection and explain why the right choice starts with the barrier, the penetration, and the tested UL system. We break down mechanical and non-mechanical firestop systems so you can seal penetrations correctly, support future cable adds, and avoid costly code violations.
• four selection factors: assembly type, barrier construction, penetrants, sealing method to restore rating
• mechanical firestop systems for vibration and shock tolerance
• cable transit systems and how inserts compress around cables
• fire-rated pathways for easy moves adds and changes
• factory fabricated sleeves, bushings, mineral wool, and AHJ approval
• non-mechanical options: putty, firestop caulk, cementitious materials, pillows, bricks, blankets
• firestop properties: intumescent expansion, endothermic heat absorption, ablative char formation
• why grout and plaster crack and fail as firestopping
• membrane penetrations versus through penetrations with real examples
• annular space limits and why too much or too little material fails
• seven jobsite tips: follow UL drawings, never mix materials, label and document, watch curing hazards and fumes
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Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD

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We record from BICSI CALA, Costa Rica to clear up a stubborn myth about the National Electrical Code and explain how it becomes enforceable outside the United States. Fernando Escelente frm the NFPA clears up some confusion. We also dig into how NFPA supports adoption across Latin America through translation, access, training, and certification as new technology and new NEC editions arrive.

• NEC as a reference code vs a legally adopted code
• How Latin American countries adopt different NEC editions
• Why outdated NEC versions create safety gaps
• The challenge of translating legal technical language into Spanish
• Using AI translation with subject matter expert review
• NFPA resources for access including NFPA Link
• Training and certification as the difference between rules and real compliance
• Local amendments and how jurisdictions tailor enforcement
• Timeline expectations for NEC 2026 translation and adoption
• Committee participation and why balanced panels protect safety
• Why adoption must be paired with training and inspection

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD

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We sit down with the Goldilock team to challenge the default “add more software” mindset and focus on a blunt truth: if a network is not connected, it cannot be hacked from the outside. We dig into how Layer 1 physical disconnection works with existing security tools, what it means for installers and PMs, and why protecting backups and controlling third-party access can change your blast radius overnight.
• Physical network disconnection as Layer 1 defense
• Why software-only security becomes an arms race
• Picking disconnect points based on a risk register
• Bulkhead and light switch analogies for technicians
• Using APIs to trigger disconnects from existing security tools
• Timeouts, default states, and safe reconnection practices
• Ransomware reality and why attackers go after backups first
• Retrofit and rack installation considerations for a 1U device
• Manual firmware updates, maintenance windows, and validation audits
• Third-party access windows with auditing and certainty
• Coordinating installers, PMs, IT, and OT through labs and simulations
• Future direction as AI speeds up attacks
If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating?

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD