Method of assisting a compromised barrier

The present invention provides method, apparatus, and system to assist in partially or fully reestablishing the fire rating of a barrier that has been compromised by the installation of an electrical box(es) in the barrier. The electrical box includes a faceplate having a fire retardant material, such as an intumescent material, coupled to the faceplate and/or coupled between the box and the faceplate. The fire retardant material enhances the fire resistance of the compromised area of the barrier. In one embodiment, the fire retardant material can be in the form of a gasket that can be used cooperatively with the faceplate and the electrical box. In another embodiment, the fire retardant material can be established on one or more surfaces of the faceplate by molding, spraying, dipping, coating or any other methods of application of the material to a surface.