Fire Damper & LEV Testing

Fire/Smoke Damper Testing & LEV Testing

The CLP Filters team of surveyors carry out fire / smoke damper testing to comply with BS5588-9 Code of practice for ventilation and air conditioning ductwork.

This also includes BS9999, which states that fire dampers should be cleaned and maintained at intervals as stated below.

Fire dampers are crucial passive fire protection products used in HVAC ducts to prevent the spread of fire inside the ducting system through fire- resistant rated walls and floors. In the event of a rise in temperature, the fire damper closes which usually is activated by a thermal element. This thermal element melts at higher than ambient temperatures but low enough to indicate the presence of fire and or sensing of heat or smoke, allowing the springs to close the damper blades.

Fire / smoke dampers are open most, if not all the time, it is vital that these will still close effectively when required to do so. By providing a barrier beyond which the fire cannot pass through, effectively fire dampers are saving lives.

Regular fire damper testing (also known as drop testing) as well as cleaning and maintenance is both a legal requirement and a critical part of building fire safety management. At CLP Filters we offer a fire damper testing, cleaning and maintenance service in accordance with BS9999:2008. This gives guidance for the two main types of fire dampers which are the spring-loaded style. These should be drop tested, cleaned and maintained at intervals of no greater than 12 Months. The non-spring-loaded model must be drop tested, cleaned and maintained at least every 24 Months.

A photographic report and certificate will be issued upon completion.

Fire/Smoke Damper inspections to include:

• 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 and or damage.
• The fire/smoke damper will be cleaned and lubricated whilst in the closed position.
• The fire/smoke damper will then be opened and re-set.
• Any corrosion shall be reported to the client.
• Test results with client information including position within the building, date and name of operative shall be recorded and any comments noted for any further action.
• Asset register to include damper location and ID reference.
• Inspection results including details of any failed damper operations.
• If drawings are provided CLP Filters will update and annotate details.
• Photographic evidence of before and after the testing procedures unless otherwise specified by the client shall be provided.
• A full detailed report shall be submitted containing an explanation of failed operation and any recommended corrective or remedial action.

LEV Testing

CLP Filters team of surveyors routinely carry out full and comprehensive LEV testing and have the relevant expertise to carry out any remedial works to ensure the system’s efficiency is running at it’s optimum. All works are underwritten with a full report of inspection and certificate.

All LEV systems must keep a record of their reports available for at least 5 years and should show the outcome of weekly visual checks, the results of the thorough annual inspection and tests, and any repairs or remedial work carried out as a result of this regular monitoring.