In the event of a fire, the fusible link keeping the fire damper open will get to 72° C, and then melt or break, releasing the spring loaded fire damper door/blades which fall or close to seal that section of the ductwork in order to contain the fire within the duct system or ductwork space.
Some fire dampers can also be operated automatically when linked to the building fire alarm system or BMS. These dampers are designed in such a way that when a fire is detected in the building, a signal is sent to the fire damper which then mechanically closes the damper.
The Inspection And Testing Of Fire Dampers for Ductwork Can Be One Of The Most Important Aspects Of Fire Safety
The majority of property managers and owners know the importance of taking adequate preventive measures against fire risk. It is not just the need of having fire and smoke dampers (e.g. spring loaded fire dampers) installed in a property’s Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems but to also have the inspection and maintenance of these fire dampers carried out routinely.
As a property manager or someone responsible for the fire safety of a building it is crucial that you understand the legal requirements for fire and smoke damper testing in order to be compliant.
What Does A Fire And Smoke Damper Do, And Why Are They Necessary?
The main purpose of Fire and Smoke Dampers in ductwork is to prevent or slow the spread of fire through fire-resistance rated walls and floors. Fire dampers are capable of slowing or stopping a fire passing through a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, which as a result, helps to minimize any damage to the structure of the building and, most importantly, protects the people within the building.
What is a Fire Damper?
A fire damper is a reactive fire safety system which is fitted in the ductwork that passes through fire-proofed walls or fire compartment barriers. It is designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke in a building.
There are two main different types of fire dampers that you will come across – dynamic fire dampers (i.e. spring loaded fire dampers), and static fire dampers. The main difference between the two is the way they operate, and that is typically governed by their placement in the ductwork.
How Does A Typical Fire And Smoke Damper Work?
In the event of a fire, the fusible link keeping the fire damper open will get to 72° C, and then melt or break, releasing the spring loaded fire damper door/blades which fall or close to seal that section of the ductwork in order to contain the fire within the duct system or ductwork space.
Some fire dampers can also be operated automatically when linked to the building fire alarm system or BMS. These dampers are designed in such a way that when a fire is detected in the building, a signal is sent to the fire damper which then mechanically closes the damper.
What’s the difference between Dynamic and Static Fire Dampers?
Dynamic Fire Dampers
Dynamic fire dampers have been designed to operate in ‘Fan-On’ systems, and in the event of a fire, to close against system air pressure and velocity. Dynamic dampers (in most cases) use springs to pull the curtain blades closed against the air pressure and velocity, while static dampers rely only on gravity to pull the curtain blades closed.
Static Fire Dampers
Static fire dampers are designed to prevent only the passage of flame and are not tested to close under system air pressure and velocity. Static fire dampers rely solely on gravity to pull the curtain blades closed, whereas dynamic fire dampers use springs to pull down against system air pressure and velocity.
Why Do Fire And Smoke Dampers Need Regular Testing?
Fire dampers are mechanical items, and although they work well out of the box, they are very susceptible to poor installation, and environmental conditions that can impact how well they work.
Foreign materials and particulates such as dirt, combustible dust, and debris often accumulate within ductwork.
What Are The Regulations That Govern Fire Damper Testing And What Are The Fire Damper Testing Requirements?
The British Standard 9999:2017 gives clear guidance that covers the routine inspection and maintenance of ventilation and air conditioning ductwork and states that all fire dampers should be tested at least once during a 12 month period.
These inspections must be documented to evidence compliance, and any faults that have been resolved.
Can You Carry Out Fire Damper Testing Yourself?
Yes, you can carry out fire damper testing if you have been appropriately trained to carry out this activity and are competent to do so. According to the British standard 9999: 2017 on fire damper maintenance and fire damper inspection, it states that fire dampers must be tested by a competent person.
op testing
Why do dynamic fire dampers have a spring loaded design?
It’s all about air pressure. The main purpose of the spring loaded functionality is to keep air from continously moving freely and feeding the fire.
Embedded fans activate to trigger this function and stop the oxygen uniting with the smoke and flames. The system has been proven to prevent serious permanent damage successfully.
Hydro-X Training offers THE ONLY City & Guilds Accredited Fire And Smoke Damper Testing Training course in the UK
Our course conforms to the ACoP5 (41, 42, 43), and The Regulatory (Fire Safety) Order 2005, as well as technical guidance such as (BESA DW145, TR19, DW144, HSE’S HTM 05-02 (for healthcare premises), and BS 9999: 2017
Our Practical Training Centre has real-world replica environments to make sure that trainees leave with valuable experience
We are centrally located in the UK, and just off Junction 31 on the M1 for easy access
Trainees will get practical experience of working with a full-range of different types of Fire and Smoke Dampers
Our training rooms are spacious and air conditioned for comfort
We can visit your premises for course delivery. Please contact us to discuss
3 Different Ways To Learn Our Spring Loaded Fire Damper Course
Nationwide Delivery At Our Venues
We have many training venues across the length of the country, from London to Edinburgh. Learn face-to-face with trainers who have extensive experience of the industry.
On-Site Delivery At Your Own Premises
If you have 5 or more people that need a Fire Damper Testing training course it will be much cheaper for us to come to you. You will get your own trainer for the day, and we will also tailor the course to your needs.
Remote Delivery Using Our ‘Learn Anywhere’ Web-Conferencing Technology
We have partnered with leading educational institutions to develop a unique remote-learning facility (think web-conferencing). This is ideal for those with less time, who wish for the same standard of training without traveling. More convenient and cost-effective, without compromising on course quality.
Our Fire Damper Testing course is the only City & Guilds accredited course in the UK. This helps you prove your competence and compliance with nationally recognised standards.
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