Fire, Security & Life Safety Systems
Fire Dampers
Fire dampers can be a vital part of your fire safety system. They save lives by impeding fire and smoke progression from one area to the next and are mandatory in all commercial ventilation systems under UK building regulations.
At Robinsons Facilities Services, our qualified HVAC engineers can maintain, repair and install all types of fire dampers in your commercial premises. We’ll also advise on the right type of fire damper for your business in keeping with building regulations. Contact us today for a free quote at 01423 226578 or send an enquiry and we’ll get back to you.
What Is a Fire Damper?
A fire damper is a type of passive fire protection device that is used to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. They act as a blocking system for fires and smoke and usually sit within the ducts of commercial premises.
There are several types of certified fire dampers, including:
- Dynamic – Dynamic dampers have spring-loaded doors that slam shut when temperatures rise, using air pressure to remain closed.
- Static – Static dampers have curtain-like barriers that drop down in ducts where fans shut off during fires.
- Fire/Smoke – These combination dampers block both flames and smoke.
How Do Fire Dampers Work?
Fire dampers are usually spring-loaded and will close automatically when a fire is detected. This happens when the fire sensor, which is usually located on the side of the fire damper, triggers an electrical signal that closes the fire damper blades.
The fire damper may also be manually operated by a switch or handle. In rare cases, they may need to be closed manually in the event of a fire, though most modern systems have moved away from this.
Our Fire Damper Services
At Robinsons Facilities Services, our expert engineers have decades of experience in all fire damper services, including:
Fire Damper Installation
Fire dampers are installed wherever ductwork penetrates fire-rated walls and barriers. This helps to section off parts of the building and prevent an easy route for a fire to spread, similar to how a fire door or shutter works.Â
Our fire safety services ensure your building’s fire dampers are properly installed and maintained. We conduct fire risk assessments to determine ideal damper placement and other needed protections.Â
Robinson Facilities Services provides full fire damper installation, ongoing maintenance testing, and additional fire prevention solutions to keep your property compliant and occupants safe.
Fire Damper Testing and Maintenance
Your fire damper should be tested at least once a year, and more frequently if it is located in an area where there is a high risk of fire. The test should include a visual fire damper inspection, as well as an operational test to ensure it will close correctly.
Fire damper testing requirements are outlined in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order and BS:9999 2017. It is a legal requirement to test fire dampers upon installation and then annually after this.
Commercial Fire Damper Services Yorkshire: Why Choose Us?
We’re the top fire damper service providers in Yorkshire, with years of hands-on experience in all areas of fire protection. Our engineers are trained and accredited to the highest standards. Read our client testimonials →
We pride ourselves on delivering a consistently exceptional standard of work, serving commercial properties all over Yorkshire and the north of England. Our services include a 24/7/365 fire protection emergency service.
Contact Robinsons Facilities Services today for a free quote on 01423 226578 or send an enquiry.
Fire Dampers FAQs
Fire dampers are most effective when installed in or near the wall or floor or at points where ducting exists within the walls. This is where they are most effective at confining fires.
The British Standard 9999 Code of Practice for Fire Safety in the Design & Use of Buildings outlines that fire dampers should be installed on a grille or opening through enclosures for ventilation purposes.
Fire dampers are designed to block the passage of flames while smoke dampers primarily stop smoke spread, though both can be crucial for compartmentalising fires.Â
Yes, fire dampers are still required even if your building has sprinklers. Sprinklers suppress room fires but do not stop flame and smoke from spreading through ductwork like fire dampers do.
The only real way to know if your fire dampers are in good working order is to have a qualified professional complete a full inspection of all dampers on your premises.
The cost of installing fire dampers in the UK ranges from £150 to £500 per damper, depending on factors such as damper size, type, and installation complexity.
Call our Yorkshire Head Office about Fire Dampers
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