PROLIGHTING carries fire rated downlights from several manufacturers for contractors working in rated assemblies. But first, why fire rated at all? While typical IC rated fixtures are designed and tested for direct contact with insulation, they’re actually poor flame barriers. Most IC fixtures are light sheet metal or aluminum that breaks down rapidly in direct contact with fire. Every time you cut a hole in a ceiling to install a recessed light, you create a free passage for fire and smoke. IC rated fixtures are built to avoid starting a fire. Fire rated downlights act as a barrier once one has already started.