Ensuring fire and smoke dampers are properly functioning is critical for building safety. These essential components play a vital role in containing fires and preventing the spread of smoke. In honor of National Fire Prevention and Safety Week, which is just around the corner (October 6-12), we’re going to do a deep dive into the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards related to fire and smoke damper inspections, along with practical guidance for building owners and facility managers.
NFPA 105 and NFPA 80: Key Requirements
NFPA 105 and NFPA 80 outline the specific requirements for testing and inspecting fire and smoke dampers. According to these standards, fire and smoke systems and dampers must be inspected one year after installation and then every four years. Hospitals are required to conduct inspections every six years.
Essential Inspection Steps
Accessibility: Verify that there is full, unobstructed access to the damper.
Functional Testing:
Option 1—Dampers with Position Indication
- Test the damper with normal HVAC airflow to ensure it opens and closes correctly.
- Use the position indication device to confirm the damper’s position.
- Remove electrical power or air pressure to close the damper.
- Verify that the damper closes completely.
- Re-apply power to reopen the damper.
- Confirm the damper’s fully open position.
Option 2—Dampers without Position Indication
- Visually confirm the damper’s position.
- Ensure no obstructions are in the path of the damper blades.
- Close the damper manually.
- Visually confirm complete closure.
- Re-open the damper.
- Visually confirm the fully open position.
Additional Considerations
- Regular Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance on fire and smoke dampers to address any issues affecting their performance.
- Documentation: Maintain detailed records of inspection results and maintenance activities.
- Emergency Procedures: Develop and implement emergency procedures for responding to fire and smoke damper failures.
- Professional Inspection: Consider hiring a qualified professional to conduct inspections, especially for complex systems.
By adhering to NFPA 105 and NFPA 80, and following the outlined inspection procedures, building owners and facility managers can significantly enhance fire safety and protect occupants and property. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for ensuring the proper functioning of fire and smoke dampers.
Plus, take part in 2024’s Fire Prevention and Safety Week! This year’s theme, “Fire Prevention and Safety: Everyone’s Responsibility,” emphasizes the importance of individual and community involvement in safeguarding lives and property from fire hazards. By understanding fire safety principles and taking proactive measures, we can reduce the risk of fires and minimize their devastating consequences.
Additional Resources:
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): https://www.nfpa.org/
Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI): https://www.bicsi.org/
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE):
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