Floor throughs, also known as service penetrations or risers, refer to openings or ducts in the floor that allow electrical wiring, plumbing, heating and ventilation systems to pass through. There are several synonyms used to refer to floor throughs that may vary depending on the context and industry, including utility penetrations, chase-ways, conduit openings, service shafts, and mechanical risers. These terms are commonly used in construction, architecture and engineering to describe the openings through which utility pipes and wiring are routed vertically, from one floor level to another. Synonyms for floor throughs are used interchangeably and can be useful in conveying ideas and clarifying meaning for a variety of readers.