Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) published guidance in 2010 for the installation of fire dampers. The guide is called DW/145: Guide to Good Practice for The Installation of Fire and Smoke Dampers.
In the guide, BESA highlights the basic principles in the design and installation of fire and smoke dampers. The primary focus is around design, manufacturing and the final installation of the devices, such as how and when to use dampers within a building’s ventilation system.
The guidelines are now incomplete
Let me start by saying the BESA guidelines are always meticulously planned and implemented – as the former Chair of the Vent Hygiene Group at BESA I know this for a fact. However, by their nature, they are a reflection of best practice and addressing the key issues at that time. Following the implementation of DW/145, it was apparent to both myself and others in the industry that the installation of fire or smoke dampers is just the start of the process. Without adequate testing and maintenance, they are potentially ineffective in the longer term. DW/145 did not include the vital area of ongoing testing and maintenance.
Introducing VH001
BESA has addressed this with the production of VH001 a Technical Bulletin issued by BESA providing a summary of standards for fire and smoke damper testing. The bulletin will then become an integrated part of DW/145 when it is next updated.
What makes VH001 different?
A collaborative approach was used to create the technical bulletin. Businesses and industry leaders involved in all aspects of fire and smoke dampers came together. We discussed the most practical ways to ensure comprehensive and robust inspection and testing methods.
We considered existing guidelines and current industry best practice and how the new technical bulletin would amalgamate into the “gold standard”. We also wanted to make this as simple as possible for both end-users and contractors working to support building owners in achieving compliance.
The benefits are clear
Looking at the complete picture – everything from design, manufacturing, installation and future maintenance, means guidelines are both practical and straightforward to implement. Long term this makes compliance easier for building managers. You see, if legislation fails to consider ongoing compliance requirements, it is the building managers and facilities professionals who are left wondering how to meet their obligations.
Are you familiar with VH001?
If you’re a facilities professional and want to remain up to date on the latest technical bulletins, you can visit the BESA website, or connect with me on LinkedIn. My Technical Director and I regularly meet with clients and facilities professionals to share our knowledge on compliance matters. Please get in touch to discuss if this would be helpful for you or your team.
