220-801 · Question #321
Which of the following cable types is used to prevent exposure to toxins in the event of a fire?
The correct answer is C. Plenum. Plenum-rated cable uses a special low-smoke, fire-retardant jacket compound that does not emit toxic fumes when burned, making it required by fire codes in air-handling plenum spaces.
Question
Which of the following cable types is used to prevent exposure to toxins in the event of a fire?
Options
- ACAT6
- BRG-59
- CPlenum
- DPVC
How the community answered
(35 responses)- A3% (1)
- C94% (33)
- D3% (1)
Why each option
Plenum-rated cable uses a special low-smoke, fire-retardant jacket compound that does not emit toxic fumes when burned, making it required by fire codes in air-handling plenum spaces.
CAT6 describes the cable's electrical performance category (bandwidth, crosstalk) and does not specify the jacket material or its fire/smoke properties.
RG-59 is a type of coaxial cable used for video signals; the designation refers to its impedance and construction, not fire-safety jacket ratings.
Plenum cable is jacketed with materials such as FEP (fluorinated ethylene polymer) or low-smoke PVC that are self-extinguishing and produce minimal toxic gases when exposed to fire, as required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for installation in HVAC air-handling spaces where smoke could spread through a building.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the standard jacket material for non-plenum cable; it releases hydrogen chloride and other toxic gases when burned, making it unsuitable for plenum spaces.
Concept tested: Plenum-rated cable fire safety and toxic fume prevention
Source: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/switches/catalyst-702-series-switches/product_bulletin_c25-702501.html
Topics
Community Discussion
No community discussion yet for this question.