Fireproofing is the characteristic of a type of construction or material that is resistant to heat and fire.[1]​[2]​ It is a type of passive measure that provides protection to materials or structures from fire through the use of materials or structures that are more resistant to fire and its spread.

Fireproof systems are believed to have originated after the great fire of Rome that devastated part of the city during the second half of the first century AD, from there the first measures against fires were taken.

Fireproof systems can vary in material, depending on the base to be fireproofed. The enclosures, both vertical and horizontal, that separate fire sectors that are crossed by facilities, must be sealed to prevent the passage of fire. To do this, depending on the element that passes through it and the element crossed, different types of materials are used.

Fireproof materials, both applied to structures (mortars) and installed to sectorize or used to compartmentalize (sealing installation passages, partitions or cladding), what they do is delay the consequences of fire. By carrying out this type of protection we manage to extend the time to allow both the evacuation of people and the access of specialized firefighting bodies for a certain period of time.

The application of a certified fireproof system to certain structures allows them to have a certain fire resistance index. In the United States the term "fire retardant" is an industry term which is specified in the United States Building Specifications, which does not mean that a certain material cannot burn or become inoperable if exposed to fire. The index corresponds to a certain performance under specific test conditions.[3]​.

The incorporation of fire-retardant substances in the material formulas can modify certain properties of the material.[4] Halogenated polymers such as PVC are self-extinguishing (self-fireproof), however plasticized PVC is flammable[5]·.[6]​.

• - United States NFPA standards.