Fire Damper Testing
HOW WE CAN HELP WITH FIRE DAMPER INSPECTION?
Fire Damper Inspection, Testing, and Assessments
At Vent-Tech, we proudly introduce our fire damper inspection and testing services. Our expert engineers specialise in the installation, maintenance, and inspection of fire dampers across various commercial buildings.
The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has published ‘DW145 – Fire Dampers (E/EI) and Leakage Guide to Good Practice for Installation, Design and Selection, Inspection and Maintenance’. The publication is the latest development in the Association’s campaign to improve building safety standards in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster. BESA has warned that annual fire damper inspections often uncover incorrectly installed dampers that do not meet manufacturers’ instructions, highlighting the critical need for proper testing and maintenance.
When was the last time you got your fire dampers inspected?
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What Are Fire Dampers? How Do Fire Dampers Work?
Fire dampers are a critical component of a building’s passive fire protection system. Installed within ventilation ductwork, they are designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke between separate compartments of a building.
To be effective, fire dampers must be fitted where ductwork passes through fire-rated walls, floors, ceilings, or partitions.
Most fire dampers are equipped with a fusible link, a thermal element that melts at a specific temperature. When activated by rising heat during a fire, the link releases, allowing the damper blades to automatically close. This creates a sealed barrier within the ductwork, helping to contain the fire to its point of origin, limiting its spread throughout the building, and buying valuable time for safe evacuation.
Although fire dampers come in various designs, their purpose remains the same: to protect lives and buy critical time for occupants to safely evacuate. Proper installation, regular testing, and ongoing maintenance are essential to ensure that these vital life safety components perform as intended during an emergency.
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FIRE DAMPER TESTING
Fire Damper Testing Requirements
The British Standard 9999:2017, Code of Practice for Fire Safety in the Design, Management & Use of Buildings says, “All fire dampers are to be inspected, and performance tested annually by competent persons, and any defects are to be logged, necessary action taken, and certificates of testing are to be obtained.”
Therefore, fire dampers should be inspected and tested at least once annually. However, dampers in high-risk areas such as hospitals, laundromats, etc, should go for more frequent fire damper testing.
how does it work
How Do We Do Fire Damper Inspection?
What is the Fire Damper Inspection Checklist?
We follow the testing and reporting procedure set out in BESA publication SFG 20. All contractors need to have sufficient training to carry out mechanical work.
Testing should include, but is not limited, to the following steps:
An inventory of all dampers to be tested.
All Fire/Smoke dampers will be manually released to ensure the integrity of the spring loaded shutter.
The Fusible link should be inspected for any deformity or damage.
The Fire/Smoke Damper will be cleaned and lubricated within the closed position.
The Fire/Smoke Damper shall then be opened and re-set.
Any severe corrosion found shall be reported to the client.
Reports should include, but are not limited, to the following items:
Test results with client information including position within the building/system, date, and name of operative shall be recorded and any comments noted if further action is required.
Asset register to include damper location and ID number.
Inspection results including details of failed damper operation.
If drawings are provided, update and annotate details.
Digital photographic evidence of damper condition prior to and after testing procedures un less otherwise specified by client.
Explanation of failed operation and recommended corrective or remedial action.
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Maintain Compliance:
Our services adhere strictly to BS 9999:2017 standards, guaranteeing annual drop testing, cleaning, and maintenance of all fire dampers. This proactive approach ensures your fire safety systems are always in optimal condition.
Stay Compliant and Safe:
As the designated fire safety officer or responsible individual, entrust Vent-Tech to conduct thorough fire damper testing and maintenance. Receive detailed written reports with photographic evidence, essential for your compliance records.
Protect Your Building:
Maintaining effective fire dampers is crucial for compliance with current fire safety regulations, including the Fire Safety Order. Regular testing by qualified professionals safeguards against potential failures, protecting lives and preserving fire compartment integrity.
Ensure your fire safety system remains robust and reliable with Vent-Tech’s Fire Damper Testing and Inspection service. Contact us today to schedule your assessment and safeguard your building against fire hazards.
Further Reading:
BESA – Updated damper guidance critical to fire safety push
BESA Technical Bulletin – TB/001 Fire & Smoke Damper Maintenance
Arrange a Fire Damper Inspection quote today
To discuss your Fire Damper Assessment requirements and arrange a quotation please call the team on 0117 964 7945 or fill out our contact form below and we will get back to you shortly.
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