Fire Damper Inspections
Why is fire and smoke damper inspection important?
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire and smoke dampers, or a combination of the two must be inspected one year after installation and again every four years in commercial buildings. In hospitals, these dampers are required to be inspected every six years. The goal of these dampers is to reduce the spread of fire and smoke throughout a building. These dampers must be properly inspected, tested, and maintained to ensure that they will operate properly when needed.
Fire Damper Inspections
The first step in our inspection process is to confirm that the damper is in the full-open or full-closed position as required by the system design. Next, we visually confirm the damper moved to the full-closed or full-open position when commanded. Then we visually confirm that the damper returns to the original operating position as required by the system design. When non-actuated, we confirm the fusible link is not painted. We confirm the damper fully closes when the fusible link is removed or activated with the damper in the full-open position. When equipped, we confirm that the damper latches in the full-closed position. Finally, we confirm that the damper is returned to the full-open and operational position with fusible link installed.
Smoke Damper Inspection
First, we confirm the damper fully closes under both the normal HVAC airflow and non-airflow conditions. We make sure there are no obstructions affecting the operation of the damper. There should be full and unobstructed access to the damper. Finally, we confirm that all indicating devices are working as designed.
Documentation & Final REport
A detailed final report is provided for each inspection project. This report will show the location of each damper. The date(s) of inspection will be listed. The names of the inspectors and their project manager will be listed. Any deficiencies discovered or repairs needed will be clearly listed and explained. When issues are resolved, indication of when and how deficiencies were corrected will be provided. If any issues are not able to be resolved by us, a professional recommendation will be provided.