Fire Damper Service and Maintenance

Fire Dampers are a critical component in a building’s fire safety system, designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through ductwork in the event of a fire.

They are generally installed where ductwork passes through fire-rated walls, floors, or partitions, fire dampers automatically close when exposed to high temperatures, typically triggered by a fusible link or an electronic sensor. This creates a barrier, helping to contain the fire within a specific area and allowing more time for evacuation and fire suppression.

It is VERY dangerous to block or interfere with fire dampers as this can cause performance failure when you need them, in the event of a fire. We often see them jammed open to allow a flow of air into the space, or conversely closed to prevent draughts. These ducts that pass through fire rated walls are the way a fire can spread within a building and pose a direct threat to life if they do not operate properly.

What Are Fire Dampers?

Purpose: Fire dampers are installed to stop the spread of flames and smoke through HVAC systems during a fire.

How They Work: When the temperature in the ductwork rises to a certain level, usually due to a fire, the fusible link melts, causing the damper to close and seal off the duct.

Types: There are two main types of fire dampers:

Curtain fire dampers: These consist of interlocking blades that close down like a curtain.

Motorised fire dampers: These are linked to a building’s fire detection system and operate when the system detects a fire.

How do Fire Dampers work?

Servicing Fire Dampers

Regular maintenance and servicing of fire dampers is crucial to ensure they function properly in an emergency. In the UK, the BS9999 guidelines give guidance on testing and inspecting fire dampers to ensure they will activate automatically in the event of a fire

How do you Service Fire Dampers?

The key issue with fire damper servicing and maintenance is access. They are located within ducting, often high up and tricky to access. Some may involve a crawl inside the ducting to reach the fire damper. The work itself isn’t complicated but there is a risk of harm to yourself, or to the system if you attempt to service them yourself. If a fire damper slams shut on you, it could cause serious harm.

Access and Inspection:

• Locate all fire dampers by referencing the building’s HVAC and fire safety plans.
• Gain access to the dampers through the ductwork, using access panels if necessary.
• Visually inspect the damper for any signs of damage, corrosion, or obstructions.

Test Operation:

• Manually or automatically test the fire damper’s closing mechanism. If it’s a fusible link damper, the link should be intact and not corroded. If in doubt replace the fusible link.
• For motorised dampers, verify that the detection system triggers the damper to close when a fire signal is simulated.
• Ensure the damper fully closes without any resistance or obstruction, sealing the duct properly.

Cleaning:

• Clear away any debris, dust, or dirt that may have accumulated in the damper or around the duct area. Debris can hinder the damper’s ability to close completely during a fire.

Lubrication:

• Lubricate the moving parts of the damper, such as the hinges or pivot points, to ensure smooth operation.

Testing the Fusible Link:

• For fusible link dampers, ensure the fusible link is in good condition and hasn’t become weakened by corrosion or heat exposure over time. Replace if necessary.

Resetting:

• After testing, reset the damper to its open position, ensuring it’s ready to operate in the event of a fire.

Record Keeping:

• Document the servicing, including damper location, condition, any repairs or replacements made, and test results. This record is essential for compliance and future maintenance planning.

Reporting and Repairs:

• If any dampers are found to be faulty or damaged, repairs should be made immediately. Faulty fire dampers can render fire compartmentation ineffective, putting the building at risk.

Why Regular Servicing is Important:

• Compliance: Regular fire damper servicing is legally required under UK fire safety regulation BS 9999.
• Fire Safety: Properly functioning fire dampers are essential to slowing the spread of fire and smoke, protecting property and saving lives.
• HVAC System Efficiency: A well-maintained fire damper system also helps ensure the HVAC system operates efficiently during non-emergency times.

Regular maintenance ensures fire dampers are ready to operate in the event of a fire, preserving both life and property.

From initial consultation to system design, installation, and long-term maintenance, Kimpton provides a complete fire damper service to business that will keep your building and its occupants safe.

Let us help you stay compliant, protected, and prepared for any fire emergency.

Please call us on 0151 343 1963, drop us an email on website@kimpton.co.uk or complete the form below.

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