Fire dampers can prevent the spread of fire and smoke through ductwork, making them key components of a building’s fire safety system. However, these devices can fail over time, putting the safety of the property and occupants at risk. Read on to find out what causes them to fail and why regular fire damper testing is so crucial.
Lack of maintenance
Ongoing maintenance is required for fire dampers to stay in optimal condition. Without it, dirt and debris can build up within the ductwork, hindering the movement of the damper blades and preventing them from closing effectively during a fire. Corrosion and rust can also result from a lack of maintenance, affecting the damper’s structural integrity and stopping it from operating effectively.
Age and wear and tear
Over time, the components within the fire damper can begin to deteriorate as a result of wear and tear. With continuous usage, the moving parts of the device, such as the blades and springs, are likely to degrade, which means they don’t function as well as they should. The seals or gaskets that ensure the airtight closure of the damper can deteriorate, lessening their ability to seal effectively in case of a fire. Materials can also become weakened, compromising the damper’s overall structural integrity.
Incorrect installation
Unfortunately, sometimes fire dampers are installed incorrectly. This can compromise their operation, making them ineffective in containing fire and smoke. A damper that’s not properly installed within the ductwork may not align correctly when triggered to close in the event of a fire, preventing it from sealing off the duct effectively. Additionally, components can also become damaged if they’re mishandled during the fitting process, stopping them from working as they should. This highlights the importance of choosing a reputable company to install your fire dampers.
Importance of regular fire damper testing
When fire dampers fail, the results can be potentially catastrophic. Fire and smoke can spread rapidly throughout a building’s ductwork, putting lives at risk, and causing extensive property damage. This makes regular fire damper testing absolutely essential. Testing fire dampers can help to detect faults early, ensuring that they function as intended in the event of a fire, helping to minimise its impact.
At Swiftclean, we understand the crucial role fire dampers play in fire safety. We regularly carry out fire damping testing for our many clients, serving property owners throughout the UK. Our expert testing services ensure that your fire dampers remain in optimal condition and compliant with regulations. When you partner with Swiftclean, you can relax in the knowledge that your building’s fire dampers are able to perform exactly as they’re supposed to in the event of a fire.
If you’re ready to schedule fire damper testing, get in touch with our team today. Call us on 0800 243 471 or email us at info@swiftclean.co.uk and take the first step to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of your building’s fire safety system.