What is an immediate consequence if load-bearing walls are not properly fireproofed?

When load-bearing walls are not properly fireproofed, one of the most immediate consequences is the risk of structural collapse during a fire. Load-bearing walls are critical components of a building's structure, supporting the weight of the floors and roof. In the event of a fire, these walls are exposed to extreme heat, which can weaken the materials they are made from. If the fireproofing is inadequate, the heat can cause the structural elements to lose strength and integrity, leading to potential failure.

This is particularly crucial in fire situations where rapid failure can compromise the safety of occupants and emergency responders. The presence of fireproofing materials is intended to provide additional time for both evacuation and firefighting efforts by delaying the temperature rise in the structural elements. Therefore, the failure to properly fireproof load-bearing walls places the entire structure at risk and can result in catastrophic consequences.