DW 145 - Guide To Good Practice For The Installation of Fire and Smoke Dampers

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Building Engineering Services Association

Guide to good practice:
For the
InstallatIon oF
FIre and smoke
dampers
DW/145
www.theBESA.com
Acknowledgments
IsBn 978-0-903783-63-7
Guide to good practice: © may 2010

For the all rights reserved
InstallatIon oF
FIre and smoke note - this document is based on knowledge available at the
dampers time of publication and is meant for general purposes, not for
reliance on in relation to specific technical or legal issues, in
which case independent advice on such issues should be
sought. these guidelines represent current best practice. they
DW/145 are not intended to be used to evaluate the adequacy or oth-
erwise of installation agreements or dampers installed prior
to this publication date (13/05/2010) which would have been
designed and installed to suit the individual needs of the
project. no responsibility of any kind for any injury, death,
loss, damage or delay however caused, resulting from the use
of the advice and recommendations contained herein, is ac-
cepted by the authors or others involved in its publication (in-
cluding the Building Engineering Services association).
©2013 Besa
BESA Publications
old mansion house
eamont Bridge
penrith Ca10 2BX
01768 860405
publications.info@theBesa.com.
www.theBESA.com
Foreword
Whilst fire and smoke dampers have been in use for

many years, there was until recently a lack of
nationally recognised criteria to ensure their
Guide to good practice: integration into the building structure in a
practical, efficient and effective manner.
For the
rather, it was left to ductwork designers, damper
InstallatIon oF manufacturers and Building Control and fire
authorities to specify the method of installation in
FIre and smoke each case. more often than not, the decision on
the method to be employed was based in the end
dampers upon opinion rather than certified test results.
When an industry guide to the design and installation of fire and smoke
dampers was finally developed by the asFp (association for specialist Fire
DW/145 protection) and heVaC (heating, Ventilating and air Conditioning
manufacturers association), and published in april 2007 as the asFp’s
Grey Book, the ductwork Group of the Besa collaborated in its
production and continues fully to support its content.
the Group also believed, however, that a complementary publication was

required to address the practicalities of the system design and installation
process as a whole – a belief that has led to the introduction of this
publication, the Guide to Good practice: For the Installation of Fire and
smoke dampers (dW/145).
this guide highlights many of the basic principles contained in the design
and installation process, whilst at the same time identifying the
responsibilities that attach to the team as a whole – which, of course,
comprises designers, builders, manufacturers and local authorities as well
as mechanical services, ductwork and other specialist contractors.
It identifies, clearly and concisely, the matters that must be addressed

when fire and/or smoke dampers are to be installed within a building’s
ventilation ductwork system.
also acknowledged is the universal responsibility we all carry for the

Industry feedback protection of individuals throughout the built environment.
this guide to good practice brings together
several disciplines involved in the overall
process from system specification, damper
manufacture through to a compliant
installation. the emphasis throughout is on
teamwork and, in particular, good
communications and in this respect the Besa Kevin Talbot
would welcome any feedback that will allow Former Chairman Besa ductwork Group
improvements to the guide to be made in
future editions.
www.theBESA.com
Guide to Good Practice For the Installation of Fire and Smoke Dampers
CONTENTS Page
INTRODUCTION 3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND OTHER DUCTWORK
RELATED PUBLICATIONS 7
1.0 SCOPE 8
The Design and Installation Process Flow Chart – Figure 1 9
2.0 DEFINITIONS 10
3.0 MAIN DESIGN CRITERIA AND RESPONSIBILITIES 10
3.1 Design criteria 10
3.2 Responsibilities 10
3.2.1 Fire / smoke compartmentation 11
3.2.2 Systems specification and design 11
3.2.3 Compliance with Building Regulations 12
3.2.4 Damper specification 12
3.2.5 Damper assembly selection 12
3.2.6 Damper procurement 13
3.2.7 Programmed activity sequence 13
3.2.8 Fire separating elements / barriers 13
3.2.9 Penetration seals 13
4.0 SYSTEM DESIGN 14
4.1 Legislation and UK Standards 14
4.2 System design considerations 14
4.3 Technical information 16
5.0 INSTALLATION 17
5.1 Installation arrangements 17
5.2 Information to be provided to the damper installer 17
5.3 Sequence of installation 17
5.4 Installation considerations 17
5.4.1 On-site modifications 17
5.4.2 Work-in-progress inspections 18
5.4.3 Pre-handover activities 18
5.4.4 Final inspection and certification 18
6.0 TYPICAL DAMPER / BARRIER INSTALLATION 19
ARRANGEMENTS
Methods 1/2 Pre-formed vertical or horizontal opening 20/21
complete with damper sleeve
4
Method 3 Pre-formed vertical or horizontal 22

structural/builders work opening complete
with damper expansion frame
Method 4 Pre-formed vertical opening in a dry-lining 23
partition complete damper face plate
Method 5 Damper and ductwork installed prior to the 24
forming lining of a dry-partition
Method 6 Damper installed in a vertical fire curtain 25
Method 7 Surface mounted damper on pre-formed 26
vertical or horizontal Builders work /
structural opening using a sheet metal
‘Z’-frame
APPENDIX A The ASFP Industry Guide to the Design for 27
the Installation of Fire and Smoke Resisting
Dampers
APPENDIX B Definitions of Damper Types and a Glossary 28
of Terms
APPENDIX C Synopsis of Current Legislation and UK 31
Standards
APPENDIX D System Design Considerations 33
APPENDIX E Check Lists for Design, Installation, 37
Inspection and Hand-over
APPENDIX F Typical Installation Sequences 41
APPENDIX G Key guidance points for the system
designer and damper installation contractor 43
APPENDIX H Register of current Industry recognised fire 47
testing and assessment bodies
5
6
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The BESA records its appreciation and thanks to both the members of the Ductwork Group’s Technical Sub-
Committee who were given the responsibility of producing the guide and to the various Associations, Professional
Bodies and individuals who provided valuable input and verification at the appropriate stages of development.
The members of the Ductwork Group’s Technical Sub-Committee involved during the draft stages were:–
M Cain C Collins N Edwards-Hughes S Howard B James L Hussey
J E Murray C Robertson P Rogers M Simpson K Waldron M Oakes (Secretary)
The Associations and Professional Bodies who support the intent of this guide are:–
ACE (Association for Consultancy and Engineering)
ADCAS (Association of Ductwork Contractors & Allied Services)
AIS (Association of Interior Specialists)
ASFP (Association for Specialist Fire Protection)
BRE Global Ltd (Building Research Establishment incorporating the Loss Prevention Certification Board, LPCB)
BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association)
CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers)
FIA (Fire Industry Association)
FPA (Fire Protection Association)
FPDC (Federation of Plastering and Drywall Contractors)
HEVAC (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Manufacturers Association)
LABC (Local Authority Building Control)
WCL (Warrington Certification Ltd)
OTHER DUCTWORK-RELATED BESA PUBLICATIONS

DW/144 Specification for Sheet Metal Ductwork DW/144 AND DW/143 are now both
DW/143 A Practical Guide to Ductwork Leakage Testing }included in the Building Regulations
DW/154 Specification for Plastic Ductwork
DW/172 Specification for Kitchen Ventilation Systems
DW/191 Guide to Good Practice – Glass Fibre Ductwork
DW/TM1 Ductwork – Acceptance Scheme for New Products – Rectangular Cross Joint Classification
TR/19 Guide to Good Practice – Internal Cleanliness of Ventilation Systems
BESA Working Together – Promoting understanding between mechanical services and ductwork
contractors.
7
will be withdrawn leaving the European product

SECTION 1 standard no. BS EN 15650 for fire dampers to
take precedence. In the case of the BS EN
Scope European product fire resistance test and
classification systems, the systems use formal
rules for direct and extended field of application
1.0 This guide is intended to highlight and clarify of the test data. Therefore assessments on any
the important aspects of fire and smoke barrier / variations to the tested system as practiced
damper installation including the under the previous adhoc BS 476 procedures
responsibilities of all parties involved in the will not be permitted for BS EN classified
overall sequence from system specification systems. It is likely that up until July 2012
through to a compliant installation. Emphasis is assessments will be allowed in some
placed on the need for all parties to work as a applications for dampers tested to BS 476
team by recognising not only their individual Part 20-22, but after this date, assessments
responsibilities but also those of all other parties for fire/smoke dampers tested will have to be
in achieving this goal. carried out in accordance with European
formal rules by a European notified body.
The guidance only relates to the installation of However, in the period preceding this
fire dampers and leakage rated fire and smoke deadline, users of this guide are strongly
dampers as used in ventilation systems to recommended to fully acquaint themselves
maintain fire compartments and/or protect with, and adhere to, the specific
means of escape from buildings and does not requirements of individual Project
cover the installation of powered smoke control Specifications. The use of the adhoc BS 476
dampers. Later editions of the ASFP’s Grey procedures is already limited in the UK as
Book will be released in two volumes. Volume discussed in Section C.2.1 of this document. If
1, as with this guide, covers fire dampers and there is a requirement for a damper to be
ES leakage classified fire/smoke dampers and installed in circumstances where an equivalent
Volume 2 covers powered smoke control size and application cannot be tested or assessed
dampers which are either opened to allow to the European standards, an expert judgement
smoke extraction or closed to maintain (EJ) will be allowed for that particular instance
compartmentation. but only by bodies such as a fire test and
assessment body which is independently
The importance of only installing damper accredited by UKAS (United Kingdom
arrangements that have been selected / specified Accreditation Service).
by the system designer and that have been
successfully fire tested by an independent body The guide has been compiled and presented in
on behalf of the damper manufacturer is such a way to allow all parties in the design and
emphasised throughout the guide. In using installation process to appreciate the
indicative generic illustrations of commonly responsibilities and activities associated with
used damper arrangements, the guide the whole process, a summary of which is
recognises that these must not be used or illustrated opposite, in flow chart form, as
substituted in lieu of the damper manufacturer’s Figure 1 – The Design and Installation Process.
tested arrangements. Due to the greater fluidity in the
procurement process, the individual contract
Industry faces significant changes to test documentation shall clearly allocate which
standards over the next few years, particularly party is responsible for the listed activities. In
with regard to assessments. The current UK test this respect, Figure 1 may be utilised on an
standards will be replaced by the new individual project as an aide memoir or ‘check
harmonised European standards. The critical list’ in order to contractually identify each
date for change is likely to be July 2012, when responsible party. It is vital, therefore, that all
the CPR (Construction Products Regulations) participants in the process are appointed at the
becomes a statutory requirement in the UK. outset so that they can – together - agree on who
The existing adhoc procedures for testing fire is to take responsibility for each of the listed
and smoke dampers based on BS 476 Part 20 activities.
8
NOTE! It is recommended that in allocating (Specialist Engineering Contractors Group) and

such activities on an individual contract basis FETA (Federation of Environmental Trade
reference is made to the BSRIA Guide, A Associations) in a collaborative attempt to
Design Framework for Building Services create a fully integrated design team of
(Ref BG 6/2006). This comprehensive consultants, manufacturers and installers and to
publication, in the form of detailed pro-forma overcome the ambiguities if companies in a
guidance, was compiled by the Specialist project are not appointed in a coordinated
Engineering Alliance (SEA) and brings together manner including their detailed responsibilities.
the requirements of CIBSE, ACE, SECG
Fig 1 The Design
Figand Installation
1 The Design Process
and Installation Process
Possible providers See DW/145

Activities Responsible
of input to the Clause /
( in sequence ) party
activity Section
1.1 Responsible party

Determine classification, type and selected to suit the 3.2.1
Fire Safety Engineer
construction of compartmentation boundaries. requirements of the D.8
individual project
1.2 3.2.2
Prepare system design drawings for Responsible party
conceptual approval by Building Control / Fire selected to suit the Fire Safety Engineer and D.1
Authority including any non-standard requirements of the Fire Damper Manufacturer D.14
conditions that require an expert judgement individual project G.2
Independent body to fire test a damper

1.3
installation method that is suited to the
Fire Damper Fire Safety Engineer and
practical conditions associated with the great 3.2.5
3.2.3
Manufacturer Approved Test Body
majority of commercial and industrial sites /
buildings.
1.4 In accordance with Building Regulation

requirements, approve both the conceptual Building Control / Fire
Fire Safety Engineer 3.2.3
3.2.4
design and any engineering judgements Authority
associated with any non-standard conditions
1.5 Appoint a CDM co-ordinator to facilitate good Responsible party

3.2
communications between team members selected to suit the
System Designer 5.4
from design through to the handover of a requirements of the
G.3.4
compliant system individual project
Responsible party
1.6 Fire Damper Manufacturer
selected to suit the
Purchase the approved damper units Fire Damper Manufacturer 3.2.6
3.2.5
requirements of the System Designer
individual project
1.7 Contractors responsible for

Establish a practical site installation Responsible party installation of fire separating
3.2.7
3.2.6
programme, in sequence, to allow each party selected to suit the elements, building services
5.3
sufficient time and space to perform their requirements of the ( including the ductwork /
E.2
individual activities individual project dampers ) and the
penetration seals.
1.8
Provide the operatives under your control with
both the detailed drawings and the installation Responsible party 3.2.4
3.2.7
Fire Damper Manufacturer
sequence for them to complete one of the selected to suit the 3.2.8
and the designated Lead
three basic elements of a compliant damper requirements of the 3.2.9
Contractor
installation, i.e. the barrier, the damper individual project G.3.1
assembly and the penetration seal.
5.4.3
1.9 The damper fitter's
Undertake all pre-handover checks Damper fitter E.3
installation supervisor
G.3.3
1.10 Complete all handover and witnessing Damper installation

supervisor and the 5.4.4
activities including the completion of the Damper fitter
project's designated G.3.4
handover register
CDM co-ordinator
6 Rev F - Sep 09
9
SECTION 2 SECTION 3
Definitions Main Design Criteria and
Responsibilities
2.0 For the purpose of this practical guide,
specifications and communications in general, it
is important that there is Industry consistency in 3.1 Design criteria
the definitions of commonly used terms. As well as the importance of the type of fire
separating element / barrier in which the damper
In a joint collaboration with the ASFP, HEVAC, is to be mounted, there are three main design
the BESA Ductwork Group and other leading criteria to be met:–
Industry bodies, the publication known as the
Grey Book – ‘The Installation of Fire and (i) that the installation meets the system
Smoke Resisting Dampers’ was published. (see design specification with regard to its
APPENDIX ‘A’ for a summary of the contents fire classification.
of the ASFP Grey Book which includes more
detailed information on all aspects of system (ii) that the damper is installed in
design criteria) accordance with the manufacturers
tested method.
The ASFP Grey Book includes a section on
‘Definitions’ and APPENDIX ‘B’ of this (iii) that the damper should be fixed either
BESA Guide contains not only a selected list of within or directly adjacent to the fire
commonly used dampers type definitions but separating element / barrier and be
also a glossary of terms associated with their supported independently of the
installation. connecting ductwork, i.e. if the
ductwork were to be removed from both
sides of the damper it would continue to
be an integral member of the barrier it
protects.
Fire and smoke dampers are installed as part

of a building’s life safety strategy. Difficulties
associated with a building services
programme or an individual’s opinion that a
design should be modified cannot override a
design that is based on a damper
manufacturer’s independently tested
method(s).
3.2 Responsibilities
The ASFP Grey Book recommends, under the
Construction (Design and Management)
Regulations (CDM Regulations 2007), that a
client-appointed CDM coordinator oversees the
process from design through to installation. The
Regulations also require highlight that, along
with the CDM coordinator, a principal
contractor must be appointed by the client –
both appointments being for the duration of a
notifiable project.
10
recognise and understand all aspects of the

The CDM coordinator shall “facilitate good process from design to handover and that they
communication” between all team members do not solely concentrate on their own
involved in the design, manufacture and involvement at the risk of contributing towards
installation process chain including the policing a non-compliant installation. Ignorance cannot
and verification of all installations. They also be used as a defence!
have a duty to “liaise with the principal
contractor regarding ongoing design” and to In addition to the responsibilities that follow,
“identify, collect and pass on pre-construction further important supplementary information
information” relating to responsibility is provided as part of
the typical damper and barrier installation
The CDM Regulations also state that the arrangements detailed in Section 6.
principal contractor must “plan, manage and
monitor the construction phase in liaison with As indicated in Figure 1, particular
the contractors and liaise with the CDM responsibilities are allocated on a project
coordinator regarding ongoing design” specific basis. The key activities and
responsibilities to be considered are as follows:
A summary of all duties under the CDM
Regulations 2007 can be found on the HSE 3.2.1 Fire/smoke
website using the following link: compartmentation
The designated responsible party shall,
http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/cdm/ for the benefit of the party responsible
summary.htm for installation, prepare fire strategy
drawings, based if necessary on the
In addition to the CDM coordinator and the input from a fire safety engineer, clearly
principal contractor there are several other indicating fire and smoke
parties who may be involved in establishing a compartmentation, the type and
compliant damper arrangement: classification of the fire barrier and its
construction.
● Architect / Client
● System Specifier / Designer
3.2.2 System specification and
● Damper Manufacturer
design
● Building Control and Fire Authorities
System specification and design
● Project Manager
(depending on the agreement between
● Mechanical Services Contractor
team members as to allocation of
● Damper Installation Contractor
responsibilities) may be the
● Ductwork Contractor
responsibility of either the building
● Fire Barrier Contractor
services consultant, the mechanical
● Penetration Seal Specialist
services contractor or, in the case of
smaller ‘design and supply’ projects, the
It cannot be over-emphasised how important it
ductwork contractor.
is for each member of the team involved in the
project design, manufacture or installation of
fire and smoke dampers to not only discharge System specifiers and designers shall, at
their agreed responsibilities in meeting the the initial design stage, submit proposals
design criteria outlined above but also to incorporating a tested damper
cooperate with other team members to resolve arrangement to the building control and
and clarify any issue that may arise during their / or fire authority for their approval. This
individual activities. process shall be repeated with the final
designs including full details of
It is the responsibility of all team members proposed damper arrangements.
when using this guide to ensure that they Consideration shall be made in the
11
design to provide sufficient space and required, but also ensure that the
access not only to enable installation of requirements of the building control
the complete damper arrangement authority and fire officer are met.
including penetration seals but also to
allow both handover and future Substituting a damper from a different
maintenance inspections to be manufacturer to that specified in the
performed bearing in mind that such agreed design shall only be undertaken
on-going activities are now based on with agreement of the system designer in
current legislation. consultation with other members of the
team. The originally specified damper
A brief list of technical information to be may have been selected with particular
provided by the system designer to the characteristics to allow E or ES
installation contractor can be found in classifications (see C.2.1) to be satisfied
Clause 4.3 along with a more detailed and an apparent equivalent damper from
overview in APPENDIX ‘G’ and, in a different manufacturer may not have
particular, Clauses G.2. and G.3.1. the necessary test evidence to support
such a substitution.
3.2.3 Compliance with Building
Regulations APPENDIX ‘G’ contains key guidance
Building Control Authorities (BCA) points for the system design office and
must be satisfied that the designed the on-site damper fitter so that they are
arrangement presented to them shows aware of their responsibility not to
compliance with Building Regulations deviate from the system design details.
including any requirements for either E
and/or ES criteria (see APPENDIX ‘C’, 3.2.5 Damper assembly
Clause C.2.1). The method of selection
installation must have been successfully Damper manufacturers and suppliers
fire tested by an independent body on shall ensure when handing over dampers
behalf of the damper manufacturer (see to purchasers that they provide
APPENDIX ‘H’ for a register of dimensionally detailed guidance on how
currently approved bodies). the damper assembly is to be installed
including any requirements for
Where site conditions differ from those damper unit expansion. Damper
tested, the building control authorities manufacturers shall cooperate when
shall be prepared to consider what other required with members of the team to
test evidence is available to the system ensure that the method specified is
designer and arrive at an acceptable practical relative to the differing site
conclusion. This consideration shall be conditions that exist from project to
made before the damper is installed. project. In order to achieve a compliant
Requesting the damper manufacturers’ installation arrangement that is
approval ‘after the event’ is not always compatible with the fabric of a building
acceptable. In most cases this will not be and its penetrations, this may involve
given as third party assessments may not seeking input from a Fire Safety
be readily available (see B.2.1, Engineer. Damper manufacturers must
Assessments and B.2.3, Expert also provide evidence that the method
Judgments in APPENDIX ‘B’). has been fire tested by an independent
body (see APPENDIX ‘H’ for a register
3.2.4 Damper specification of currently approved bodies) and that,
The designated responsible party for where applicable, it meets E or ES
system design must not only specify the classification as required by the
fire or smoke damper size, type, Building Regulations (see APPENDIX
installation method and accessories ‘C’ Clause C.2.1)
12
3.2.6 Damper procurement 3.2.9 Penetration seals

The team member responsible for Where a single team member has been
system design should work closely with allocated responsibility, as a specialist
other team members involved in damper penetration seal contractor, to seal all
procurement specification to ensure that building service penetrations on a
the necessary information is provided. project, including those for fire damper
assemblies, it is imperative that the
3.2.7 Programmed activity penetration seal system is as tested by
sequence the damper manufacturer. It must be
The designated responsible party should recognised that the damper
produce a sequenced installation manufacturer is the only team member
programme of activities that takes into who can give approval to an alternative
account that the close proximity of other penetration seal system that is
services and the general fabric of the considered to be compatible with the
building have a major influence on penetration seal that has been tested with
achieving a successful and compliant their product.
damper installation.
The construction programme shall be

developed so that it recognises the
critical sequencing of all members of the
team – not just those contractors
involved in the installation of the
finalised damper arrangement. Working
to a detailed and tabulated check list,
such as is provided in APPENDIX
‘E.2’ of this guide, will assist in
achieving a practical sequence of
installation activities.
3.2.8 Fire separating elements/

barriers
A particular team member will have
responsibility for the fire separating
elements / barriers, be they floor slabs,
structural walls, drylining partitions, etc.
They must not only ensure that fire
barriers and penetrations are formed to
accommodate damper arrangements as
specified in the agreed design but they
must also ensure that the application on
their part of any penetration seals are as
tested and conform to the specific
requirements of the agreed design and
the damper manufacturer. All
installations must be supported by
relevant fire tests.
13
system designers and installers is

SECTION 4 essential”
System Design There are many important design

considerations that should be taken into
account by the team member responsible
4.0 Responsibility for the system design and
for system design who shall make such
selection of the damper arrangement shall be
considerations known to other members
allocated to a member of the team.
of the team. It is advisable that all team
members familiarise themselves with
System design must be project-specific and be
these design parameters in order that
based on the fire strategy of the building which
they can highlight and, if necessary,
will embody current legislative requirements query any aspect of the design that could
and associated recommendations. It is not an result in the installation of a non-
acceptable practice to follow the custom and compliant damper arrangement.
practice adopted on previous unrelated projects. APPENDIX ‘D’ of this BESA guide,
It is the responsibility of the system designer to lists these system design considerations
take account of current legislation and to in detail.
consider many important aspects of the system
design before ensuring that all involved 4.2.2 Overview of European
members of the team are in possession of all the standards for fire
technical information needed to install a resisting dampers and
compliant damper arrangement. smoke control dampers.
The ASFP Grey Book states;
4.1 Legislation and UK Standards “In general terms, all BS EN European
Important information concerning current standards are referenced in a product
legislation relating to Approved Document B, standard that lists the agreed fire
British Standards and Regulatory Reform classification system. The classification
Order, with a brief explanation of their content, document provides details of the fire
can be found in APPENDIX ‘C’. tests required to satisfy the classification
requirements. In addition to this, the
4.2 System design considerations field of application of test data and
Installation methods must be the subject of test classification shall be determined using
data as provided by the damper manufacturer. agreed BS EN rules for direct and
Where either site conditions or issues occur extended application of the fire test
during installation then it is important that the data. These BS EN standards are listed
damper manufacturer as part of the team is below;
involved in resolving such occurrences.
Fire resisting dampers
4.2.1 Tested methods that Product standard BS EN 15650 fire
reflect site conditions. dampers.
The ASFP Grey Book includes the
following note: Test standard BS EN 1366-2 1999 fire
“Whilst it is very important to ensure resistance test for service installations,
that only tested dampers and fire dampers.
installation details are used on site,
it is imperative that damper Classification standard BS EN 13501-
manufacturers test installation 3 2005 fire classification of construction
methods that reflect the installation products and building elements - part 3
conditions that can be expected to be classification using data from fire
found on site. Close liaison, therefore, resistance tests on components of
between damper manufacturers, normal building service installations.
14
Extended field of application BS EN unit of the smallest section to be

15882-2 extended applications of test manufactured and measured at ambient
results for fire resistance tests for service conditions.
installations, dampers.
The above system is then qualified with
a time interval, such that as an example
Smoke control dampers the following classifications may be
Product standard BS EN 12101-8, seen;
smoke and heat control systems,
specification for smoke control dampers. E240 –- fire damper with integrity of
240 minutes.
Test standard BS EN 1366-10 fire
resistance test for service installations, ES120 – leakage rated fire damper with
smoke control dampers. integrity of 120 minutes
Classification standard BS EN 13501- EIS180 – leakage rated fire damper with

4 2007 fire classification of construction integrity and insulation characteristics
products and building elements - part 4 for 180 minutes
classification using data for fire
resistance tests on components of smoke Full details of the classification system
control systems. may be determined by reading the
standards concerned.”
Extended field of application pr BS EN
15080-XX smoke control dampers 4.2.3 Technical issues during
(work not started). installation.
All the installation information from
Note! All BS EN standards without a formal testing undertaken on behalf of
publication date have yet to be formally damper manufacturers shall be freely
adopted as of September 2009 available. If this manufacturer’s test
information is not taken into account
European fire classifications, fire tests when a technical issue either occurs or is
and direct and extended fields of anticipated, then the manufacturer may
application not be able to contribute towards any
attempt to arrive at a satisfactory
European fire classification systems for solution to the issue - particularly not
fire dampers. “after the event” when an installation
has been concluded in an unsatisfactory
The classification systems described in manner. This emphasizes the need for
BS ISO 10294-2 and BS 13501-3 are the damper manufacturer to be part of
essentially the same and in summary are the team. Damper manufacturers will
as follows; only have their test information to refer
to and, therefore, assessments to BS
Integrity (E) – leakage during the fire EN1366-2 and BS EN 13501-3 will not
test of less than 360m³ per hour per m², be easily forthcoming from laboratories
no failure of the installation. which, in turn, makes expert judgments
Insulation (I) – average temperature even more difficult (see APPENDIX
rise on the unexposed face of 140°C ‘B’, B.2.1, Assessments and B.2.3,
with a maximum value of 180°C Expert Judgments and APPENDIX ‘H’
Leakage (S) – leakage during the fire for a current list of approved test /
test of less than 200m³ per hour per m² assessment bodies).
and the same requirement for second
15
If an issue arises relating to prevailing ● Inspection and handover requirements

site conditions with regard to space and
access, the situation shall be referred to APPENDIX ‘G’ offers key guidance points for
the CDM coordinator who in turn, and team members responsible for system design
with the entire test evidence available and installation and is a useful and quick
from the damper manufacturer and the reference to the overall key points of the guide
system designer, must address the as a whole.
problem with the building control
authorities in order that a practical and
acceptable solution can be achieved.
4.3 Technical information

Technical information to be provided by the
system designer to the damper installation
company:
● Damper manufacturers test data sheets

and dimensionally detailed technical
illustrations.
● Performance characteristics including, if
applicable, the controls specification.
● Material specification for the blades,
damper casing, expansion sleeves and
frames, etc, including any critical
dimensional values.
● System designers’ project-specific
detailed and dimensioned arrangement
drawings incorporating the compartment
barrier, the damper and the penetration
seal.
● System design drawings including
dampers marked with identification
codes which cross reference back to a
schedule of all dampers that include
their rating and location.
● Damper support arrangement
● Damper manufacturers instructions for
incorporating any expansion allowance
and / or expansion frame details that are
required for the damper unit.
● Damper to ductwork connection details
including any specific requirements for
fixings, joints, breakaway joints and
fastenings.
● Location of first ductwork support
relative to the damper centreline – for
both sides of the damper.
● Activity programme clearly detailing the
sequence of installation relative to each
contractor.
● Any additional or special requirements.
16
compiled which is based on proven information

SECTION 5 and procedures successfully used on previous
projects. A typical check list is provided in
Installation APPENDIX ‘E.2’
5.0 A successful and compliant damper installation 5.3 Sequence of installation

On receipt of the project-specific certified
is dependent on three key factors:
sketches (detailing the damper arrangement in
the compartmentation barrier that it protects), it
● Has the system designer incorporated a
will be necessary for the designated principal
damper unit that has been tested by an
contractor to establish a coordinated programme
independent body on behalf of the
damper manufacturer as being suitable for the installation sequence for the barrier, the
for the compartment barrier that it is damper, the ductwork and the penetration seal.
protecting? APPENDIX ‘F’ indicates typical activity
● Has the system designer included sequences to suit the agreed order of
project specific certified sketches installation.
showing the complete installation?
● Has the Principal Contractor, in 5.4 Installation considerations
conjunction with the relevant team For a cost efficient and successful installation, it
members, developed a coordinated needs to be recognised that issues can occur and
installation sequence in the form of a that they should be overcome with the
programme? continued involvement of the CDM
Coordinator. The team as a whole have the
APPENDIX ‘G’ offers key guidance points for responsibility of addressing and resolving
team members particularly involved in system unexpected issues and ensuring that work-in-
design and installation and is a useful and quick progress inspections are conducted to ensure
reference to the overall key points of the guide that a final inspection before handover to either
as a whole. the commissioning team or the client will not
result in any corrective action having to be
5.1 Installation arrangements instigated.
The system design shall include project-specific
certified sketches based on a damper 5.4.1 On-site modifications
manufacturer’s methods which have been During installation, issues can arise that
successfully tested by an independent body. might need either a revised or ‘non-
standard’ solution. They should only be
Section 6 of this guide provides generic introduced by the system designer who
illustrations that cover the majority of may need to take advice from other
installation arrangements in the UK. The members of the team including the
illustrations should only be used for guidance damper manufacturer and/or a fire safety
and planning purposes. The project-specific engineer. It may also be necessary for
sketches in the system design showing the Building Control and/ or the local Fire
complete installation arrangement shall always Authority to be involved.
over-ride any illustrations shown in this or any
other guide or specification. Where site conditions differ from those
tested, the building control authorities
5.2 Information to be provided to must consider what test evidence is
the damper installer available and reach a conclusion. Simply
In addition to the information listed in Clause requesting a damper manufacturers’
4.3 and G.3.1, and to ensure that all the relevant approval is unacceptable, as in most
information is made available to the damper cases this may not be given as
installer, it is recommended that a check list is assessments may not be available (see
17
4.2.3) design.
5.4.2 Work-in-progress All final inspections must be
inspections documented in a handover register that
The CDM coordinator must monitor must be retained by members of the
compliance with the project-specific team responsible for system design and
design and ensure that the work-in- installation.
progress is regularly inspected in
accordance with the installers approved A typical Inspection and Handover
method statement and the system design. Check List can be found in APPENDIX
‘E.3’
5.4.3 Pre-handover activities
It is in the interest of the whole team that
pre-handover inspections by the damper
installer and the hand-over itself are
based on an agreed check list. A typical
Inspection and Handover Check List can
be found in APPENDIX ‘E.3’
On completion of the works, the team

member carrying out the damper
installation must ensure that:–
5.4.3.1 Dampers are internally clean

and free from damage.
5.4.3.2 Dampers continue to operate
after installation and can be
reset from the access provided.
5.4.3.3 All internal and external control
devices are in good condition
and accessible.
5.4.3.4 Terminals on connections to
control systems are accessible.
Following the checks the damper(s)

must be offered for inspection by the
agreed parties.
5.4.4 Final inspection and

certification
At the outset of their involvement, all
team members must be made aware of
the intended final inspection and
certification regime. The final
installation must be checked for
compliance by the CDM coordinator.
The completed installation forms part of
the building’s life support strategy and
nothing must be left to chance with
every aspect of the installation being
checked against the project-specific
certified sketches included in the system
18
The methods and illustrations on the following

SECTION 6 pages are provided for guidance and planning
purposes only; the project-specific certified
Typical Damper/Barrier sketches in the system design showing the
complete installation will over-ride any
Installation Arrangements illustrations shown in this or any other guide or
specification.
Ensure that the selected fire damper has the required
classification and that it can be incorporated into an The lack of detailed dimensional information on
installation arrangement that can be supported by the the illustrations in this guide reflects the fact
individual fire damper manufacturer’s test data. that only the project-specific sketches can
Methods are not interchangeable between contain such detailed information.
manufacturers. Test or assessments are required for
different fire damper models, which, in turn, may have Although the illustrations that follow relate
different installation methods available with regard to to rectangular ductwork applications, the
E and/or ES classifications. arrangements equally apply to both circular
and flat oval damper / ductwork
The typical damper/barrier installation arrangements applications. As stated in the illustration
listed below cover the vast majority of damper headings, some arrangements can be utilised
installations common in the UK. in horizontal structural openings.
Methods 1 and 2 are the preferred methods for use with

pre-formed openings.
● Method 1
Pre-formed vertical or horizontal
opening complete with damper sleeve
and blades out of the airstream
● Method 2
opening complete with damper sleeve
and blades in the airstream
● Method 3
structural / builders work opening
complete with damper expansion frames
● Method 4
Pre-formed vertical opening in a dry-
lining partition complete with damper
faceplate
● Method 5
Damper and ductwork installed prior to
the forming of a dry-lining partition
● Method 6
Damper installed in a vertical fire
curtain
● Method 7
Surface mounted damper on pre-formed
vertical or horizontal builders work /
structural opening using a sheet metal
‘Z’-frame
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
Such are the responsibilities involved in the overall

Appendix A process (see Section 3 of this BESA guide), it is
recommended that all parties familiarise themselves
The ASFP Industry Guide with the contents of the ASFP Grey Book if only for the
need to appreciate all the critical aspects that have to be
to the design for the considered and undertaken if a building’s life safety
installation of Fire and strategy is to be guaranteed.
Smoke Resisting
To emphasise the need for all parties involved in the
Dampers (the ‘Grey overall process to be aware of their responsibilities, the
Book’) guide includes an introductory page that spells out the
legal liabilities of everyone in the process and this
The ASFP Grey Book, which has been widely cross covers everything from design and specification
referenced in the earlier sections of this BESA Guide, through to manufacture and installation.
contains sections that cover a range of important factors
that relate to the subject as a whole. The ASFP are A copy of the Grey Book can be down-loaded from the
currently up-dating this guide to suit the new and latest publications section of the ASFP Website at:
EN Standards and it will also be re-titled ‘Fire dampers
and smoke dampers: 2nd Edition’. The Grey Book will www.asfp.org.uk
be released in two volumes. Volume 1, as with this
guide, covers fire dampers and leakage rated fire and
smoke dampers as used in ventilation systems to
maintain fire compartments and/or protect means of
escape from buildings and Volume 2 covers powered
smoke control dampers which are either opened to
allow smoke extraction or closed to maintain
compartmentation.
The main subjects addressed in the Grey Book 2nd

Edition are as follows:-
● Scope
● Introduction
● Definitions
● Damper types
● Regulations and Codes
● European product standards
● European fire classifications, fire tests,
and fields of application
● Other related non-fire test for dampers
● Third party certification schemes
● CE Marking and attestation of
conformity
● Design, selection and specification
● Installation issues
● Handover information
● Maintenance
● Trade Associations and fire research
organisations
● Bibliography
● Fire damper products / data pages
27
single section), manufacturers may

Appendix B provide multi-section units. These will
generally be supplied with some type of
Definition of Damper joining strip or mullion to allow the unit
to be assembled on site. This joining
Types and a Glossary of is not, necessarily, structural.
Terms Consideration shall be given by
installers for additional support,
B.1 Definitions particularly on larger multi-section units.
For Industry consistency, all definitions of
commonly used dampers relate to those B.1.5 Combination Smoke and
published in the ASFP Grey Book of which the Fire Damper
BESA were co-authors. These units are fire dampers as generally
described in previous sections but would
B.1.1 Curtain Fire Dampers also expect to be actuated in some way
Folding curtain fire dampers are to respond to a remote signal in the case
constructed of a series of interlocking of a smoke alarm to prevent the passage
blades which fold to the top of the of cold smoke.
assembly permitting the maximum free
area in the airway. The blades are held B.1.6 Smoke Control Damper
open by means of a thermal release Smoke control dampers, which are not
mechanism. When the release covered in this guide, are single or multi-
mechanism is activated the blades fall, blade dampers that would generally have
or are sprung, to fill the airway to two safety positions – ‘open’ to allow
prevent the passage of the fire smoke extraction or ‘closed’ to maintain
compartmentation. They do not have a
B.1.2 Single Blade Fire thermal release mechanism, relying on a
Dampers ‘powered’ control system to ensure that
Single blade fire dampers are they achieve the correct position.
constructed with a single pivoting blade Volume 2 of the 2nd Edition of the
within a frame. The blade is released ASFP’s Grey Book will cover ‘powered’
from its open position by means of a smoke control dampers in detail.
thermal release mechanism. When the
release mechanism is activated the blade B.1.7 Insulated Fire Damper
pivot moves to close the airway to Blades and Closures
prevent the passage fire. Fire dampers where the blades not only
satisfy the appropriate integrity/leakage
B.1.3 Multi-blade Fire Dampers requirements but also show insulation
Multi-blade fire dampers are constructed characteristics when tested.
with a number of linked pivoting blades
contained within a frame. The blades are B.1.8 Intumescent Fire
released from their open position by Resisting Damper
means of a thermal release mechanism. Intumescent fire dampers incorporate
When the release mechanism is components, which expand by
activated the blades pivot and move to intumescent activity under the action of
close the airway to prevent the passage
heat, to close the airway to prevent the
of fire
passage of fire. The intumescent
materials form the main component for
B.1.4 Multi-section Fire fire integrity. In some instances this may
Dampers
be supported with a mechanical device
Where the duct exceeds the maximum
to prevent cold smoke leakage.
tested size of an individual damper (or
28
Activation temperatures will be third party (notified body) would be

influenced by the type of intumescent unable to arrive at the same conclusion
material. Some intumescent dampers, an EJ shall not be made.
whilst containing fire and hot smoke,
also incorporate an electro-mechanical B.2.4 Expansion Frame
device that provides cold smoke A factory fitted installation frame
containment by interface with smoke supplied by the damper manufacturer
sensors via a fire alarm panel. that forms a complete assembly with the
appropriate damper fitted therein. This
B.2 Glossary of terms frame allows the damper to expand
In order to appreciate the terminology used in under fire conditions and be to a design
the design and specification of dampers, which has been successfully fire tested.
commonly used terms are listed below, in A HEVAC/BESA frame (DW/144, fig
alphabetical order, and again, for consistency, 78) as illustrated in Method 3, can be
these terms align to those published in the ASFP regarded as falling within this definition
Grey Book however, particular attention must be
paid to the individual fire damper
B.2.1 Assessments manufacturer’s data and fixing
Documents from independent accredited instructions particularly relating to the
bodies providing broad ranges of positive fixing of the building ties.
application based on a range of fire test Failure to do so may result in a non-
data. Products and systems may only be compliant installation.
used in applications covered in the range
of the assessment. See APPENDIX ‘H’ B.2.5 Fire Separating Element/
for a current list of Fire Testing and Barrier
Assessment Bodies and also Section 1.0, Floors, walls, partitions and other fire
Scope, on the validity of assessments. separating elements of construction
having a period of fire resistance as
B.2.2 Break-away duct joint determined in accordance with BS 476
A joint connecting a fire damper spigot Parts 20, 21 and 22 or the relevant
or sleeve to the attached ductwork which European Standard. NB! Whilst the term
will allow collapse of the ductwork ‘Fire Barrier’ is the Industry preferred
during a fire without disturbing the terminology, the technically correct
integrity of the fire damper. ‘Break- reference is ‘Fire Separating Element’
away’ and flexible joints incorporate which obviously covers floors in
materials, fixings, clamps, etc, that are addition to walls, partitions and curtains.
manufactured from a non - fire resistant
material with a low melting point such B.2.6 Fire damper sleeve
as aluminium, plastic, etc. An enclosure surrounding a fire damper,
in an air passage penetrating a fire rated
B.2.3 Expert Judgments (EJ) barrier mounted in such a manner that
Solutions to specific technical problems disruption of attached ductwork, if any,
that may lie outside that for which it will not impair operation of the damper.
would be considered reasonable to have
test data. They shall only be issued by B.2.7 Fire-stop
competent persons and covered by A ‘gap’ seal provided to close an
appropriate guidelines. Products and imperfection of fit or design tolerance
systems may only be used in between elements or components to
applications covered within the scope of restrict the passage of fire and smoke.
the EJ which usually means for a single
application. If there is any doubt that a
29
B.2.8 Penetration Leakage (S)

An aperture through a fire barrier, e.g. an Leakage through a fire damper must not exceed
aperture for the passage of a ventilation 200m³/h/m² (corrected to 20°C). The
duct or ductwork. requirement for leakage during the ambient
leakage test need not be met after 5 minutes test
B.2.9 Penetration Seal duration.
The system used to restore and maintain
the fire classification of the fire Note!
separating element / barrier at the The result of the fire test must be stated in terms
position where the damper / ductwork of time elapsed to the completed minute from
pass through the barrier. the commencement of the heating to the time
when the fire damper failed to satisfy the criteria
B.2.10 Performance criteria for for integrity, insulation or leakage, or the
Integrity (E), Insulation (I) termination of the heating, whichever is the
and Leakage (S) shortest.
The definition of the three elements of
the performance criteria of dampers B.2.11 Support system
tested to BS EN 1366-2 (1999) are: The components used for suspending
and/or fixing a damper assembly to
Integrity (E) either the fire barrier itself or an adjacent
After the start of the fire test, the leakage floor, wall or soffit.
through the fire damper must not exceed
360m³/h/m²) (corrected to 20°C). The integrity B.2.12 Test Evidence
around the perimeter of the fire damper must Data obtained from a fire resistance test
continue to maintain its separating function carried out to determine the suitability of
during the test without either a product, system or combinations to
seal service penetrations. With respect to
a) causing the ignition of a cotton fire dampers this will be to BS EN 1366-
pad 2 with classification to BS EN 13501-3.
b) permitting a penetration of a gap Historical data to BS476-20/22 will only
gauge be applicable in certain instances (e.g.
c) resulting in sustained flaming fan shut-down on detection of fire) see
Approved document B: Fire safety Tests
Insulation (I) to be undertaken by an UKAS (United
This is the time in completed minutes for which Kingdom Accreditation Service)
the fire damper continues to maintain its accredited laboratory or equivalent.
separating function during the test without
developing temperatures on its unexposed
surface for which either
a) increase the average

temperature above the initial
average temperature by more
than 140°C or
b) increase at any location
(including the roving
thermocouple) above the initial
average temperature by more
than 180°C.
30
Appendix C C.2 Brief explanation of Approved

Document B: Fire safety and
relevant British Standards
Synopsis of current C.2.1 Approved Document B:
Fire safety
Legislation and Approved document B must be fully
UK Standards consulted prior to any design work being
done. It requires that where dampers are
Note! The contents of this appendix have been to be used to protect penetrations of
compiled by HEVAC (Heating, Ventilating and Air compartments by ductwork, they must
Conditioning Manufacturers Association) and relates to meet certain requirements. This will be
information that was current at the date of publication that at least that they match the E
of DW/145. HEVAC’s members manufacture the (integrity) criteria of the partition in to
majority of fire and smoke damper assemblies used in which they are to be installed. In
the UK and further information on the subject of addition, it states that escape routes and
damper manufacturing and testing can be found on areas with sleeping risk must have an
their website at www.feta.co.uk/hevac additional S (leakage) criteria.
C.1 Introduction Also in these areas, there is the

Many changes have occurred within both requirement for the dampers to close
European and British Standards and these are under response from a smoke detector or
now reflected in the Approved Documents a suitable fire detection system. Such
system. Approved Document B: Fire safety, is dampers must be actuator operated to
the UK Governments interpretation of the close when smoke is detected. E and ES
Building Regulations with regard to fire safety. criteria are only available for dampers
It contains clear statements on the use of tested to BS EN1366-2 and classified to
ductwork and dampers, so that when they are BS EN 13501-3. Dampers tested to
used fire compartmentation is maintained. This BS476 are only acceptable in situations
document must always be carefully considered where the fan will be switched off
when designing ductwork systems as The during a fire incident, and will not in any
Building Regulations are a legal requirement. case meet the requirements for escape
routes and areas with sleeping risk as
Approved Document B: Fire safety, acts as a they cannot be classified E or ES to BS
signpost to other standards. In this case they are EN 13501-3, as this only allows
BS EN 1366-2:1999 (fire test for fire dampers) classification using results from testing
and BS EN 13501-3:2005 (classification to BS EN 1366-2.
standard for fire dampers). The old ad-hoc
method of testing to BS476-20/22 is only C.2.2 BS EN 1366-2 Fire
applicable in the situation where a fan shuts resistance tests for
down in the event of a fire being detected. service installations –
Unlike BS EN 13501-3:2005, BS476-20/22 Part 2: Fire Dampers
does not permit dampers to be given a This is the test standard for fire dampers.
classification. Approved document B: Fire A unit of the largest size to be offered for
safety, also points in the direction of the BS5588 sale as a single unit is used for the fire
series which give further insight into ductwork test. The damper starts the test open with
design for fire and smoke design and safety a small volume of air passing through it.
considerations. It must close under thermal element
control. When it is closed a pressure
differential of 300Pa is placed across it
using a high temperature fan. This
pressure differential is maintained across
31
it for the duration of the test. The C.2.4 BS476 20-22 1987
leakage through the damper is measured (Formally Part 8) Fire
continuously throughout the test. It is tests on building
corrected to 20°C for classification materials and
purposes. structures – Method for
the determination of the
To meet the E criteria the damper must fire resistance of
leak no more than 360m3/hr/m2 and have elements of the
no failures around its penetration as construction (General
described in the standard (gaps, etc). To Principles)
further meet the S criteria the damper Prior to there being a specific test for fire
must leak no more than 200m3/hr/m2. dampers, this was the test used to test the
This must also be repeatable at ambient fire damper as if it were a partition. This
on the smallest size of unit to be offered test made no provision for a pressure
for sale. differential across the damper nor did it
require the integrity of the damper to be
Thus it may be seen that for different checked with anything other than gap
dampers installed by different methods gauges.
in different partitions; different time
periods may be achieved. Despite these shortcomings BS476 20-22
remained the most appropriate test
C.2.3 BS EN 13501-3: Fire available to fire and smoke damper
classification of manufacturers prior to the introduction
construction products of the forerunner of the EN & ES
and building elements – standards now being introduced in the
Part 3: Classification UK. Despite the fact that the new
using data from fire standards are more appropriate and
resistance tests on demanding than BS 476 20-22 it is not
components of normal uncommon to see reference to this test
building service on nearly all UK fire/smoke dampers
installations literature.
Using the results from the above tests
allows classification of the units for C.3 Regulatory Reform Order
specific installations. The classification The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order
times are stated within the standard, but 2005 came into effect in October 2006 (see
generally follow 30 minute intervals. http://www.communities.gov.uk/fire/firesafety/
Thus it may be seen that a specific unit firesafetylaw/) and establishes a general duty to
may have E60S, E180 in one partition ensure the safety of both employees and non
and E60S, E90 in another or, if it was a employees in the event of fire. The Main duty
different type of unit (such as a curtain holder is the ‘responsible person’ who may be
fire damper) it may have E120 in both, the employer, owner or other person who has
as it was unable to meet the ambient control of the premises. The responsible person
leakage requirements to achieve an S has to ensure that a ‘suitable and sufficient’ fire
classification. risk assessment is carried out, that suitable
general fire precautions are provided and
maintained and, that the fire risk assessment is
reviewed periodically.
32
Expert Judgments). Failure to adhere to this

Appendix D requirement may invalidate the method.
System Design Where prevailing conditions result in a

specified method being modified, then it must
Considerations be approved by the system designer in
conjunction with the damper manufacturer and
The considerations that follow are not listed in any the Building Control Officer and Fire
order of importance but they highlight the issues that Authorities.
must be addressed by the system designer in
conjunction with the damper manufacturer and their D.4 System designer’s
tested installation arrangements. specification
In order that individual activities can be
D.1 Tender Stage information accurately priced, a detailed specification needs
The system designer is not only responsible for to be compiled and made available at tender
defining and specifying all aspects of the stage which covers all aspects of the system
installation from damper locations through to designers requirements and in particular the
final inspection but also that the systems are supports system in relation to the barrier type
compliant with current Building Regulations. and the penetration and its seal. Specifications
shall take advantage from feedback from
D.2 Design appreciation previous similar installations and, to ensure that
Fire and smoke dampers are installed as part of no consideration is overlooked, be compiled by
a building’s life safety strategy and all parties a competent person using check lists (see
must make themselves aware of how and why Clause D.15 of this Appendix.)
dampers work, the need to work to tested
methods and, the importance of working to a The system designer shall bring together the
pre-agreed installation sequence for each relevant team members in order to consider and
individual damper regardless of the support and give specific guidance on the following
installation method. subjects:
D.3 Damper manufacturers’ D.4.1 Methods of Installation

instructions and test data As BS EN 1366-2 and BS EN 13501-3
Failure to comply with manufacturers tested test results and classifications (see
methods of installation can have serious and APPENDIX ‘C’) are based on leakage
expensive consequences. Good use shall be through the damper (differential
made of the experience and expertise of pressure 300Pa), the method of
manufacturers in terms of pre-handover installation has an effect on the results,
inspections. so the terms “practical” and “have to do
to pass the test” become important. This
Manufacturers test data is a critical aspect that factor shall be considered during the
cannot be ignored. Both system designers and design with regard to leaving sufficient
installers need to ensure that any alterations to a space around the units to allow
design, either at the system specification stage installation. Damper manufacturers
or during installation, must be approved by the would not impose stringent methods,
Building Control and / or Fire Authorities who unless this is specifically required when
must be able to consider what test evidence is building-in to a specific construction, to
available and reach a conclusion. Simply gain the fire classification required.
requesting a damper manufacturers’ approval is
unacceptable, as in most cases this may not be D.4.2 Multi-duct Single
given as assessments may not be available (see openings
APPENDIX ‘B’, B2.1, Assessments and B2.3, Single openings in fire barriers with
several ducts passing through them
33
should be avoided because of the (c) Be adequately protected

practical difficulties with both the against the possibility of
support and penetration seal methods. damage by impact.
(c) The complete assembly
If the system designer cannot avoid the (damper, duct and fire
situation then specific methods must be barrier combined) must
agreed with both the damper have the required fire
manufacturer and the appropriate performance as
authorities before finalising the design. demonstrated by a
successful test
D.4.3 Adjacent and Multiple undertaken by a UKAS
Damper Assemblies accredited laboratory or
Assemblies must be separated either by equivalent. (The three
builders work of a minimum width as elements cannot be
directed by the damper manufacturer or considered separately as
by factory made steel centre mullions they may have an adverse
formed from channel-formed sections of affect on each other in
a material and gauge that has been fire conditions)
proven by test i.e. multiple assemblies.
Any fire resistant casing material
D.4.4 Expansion Frames or ductwork cladding must be
Damper manufacturers set a maximum specified by the system designer
size on expansion frames and damper and clearly illustrated on the
assemblies. Frames and damper design layout drawings.
assemblies that exceed that size shall NB! Ultimately, all of the
have their expansion and support aforementioned design
systems pre-agreed and approved by the considerations must be accepted
System Designer with the local Building by the local Building Control and
Control Officer and Fire Authorities. Fire Authority.
D.4.5 Damper / Assemblies D.4.6 Safe Access for future

outside the line of the Damper Maintenance,
Fire Barrier Operation and Inspection
If, for practical and design reasons, the In addition to providing space to access
damper assembly cannot be positioned the internal components of a damper
within the thickness of the fire barrier through an adjacent ductwork opening,
then any connecting ductwork / casing it is important that provisions are made
between the fire barrier and the damper to gain safe and easy access to the
assembly must meet the following opening through, for example, ceilings,
criteria:– voids and adjacent services. In the case
of risers, safety chains or wires to be
(a) Be independently fitted to removable access panels.
supported/restrained
(b) Have a fire resistance D.5 Generic test data
equal to or greater than Individual manufacturer’s test data must not be
the fire barrier used as a generic or industry standard for
(demonstrated by seemingly similar materials and components
certification through test
and / or assessment to BS D.6 Damper selection
476 Pt 24 and / or BS In selecting the type of damper and support
EN1366 Pt 1) arrangement, it must be ensured that the fire
34
barrier / penetration opening can accommodate D.9 Penetration Seals

the arrangement. The penetration seal, often referred to as ‘fire-
stopping’, is a critical component of a
To avoid a ‘miss match’ between the type of successful installation and the system designer
damper, its installation housing and the must ensure that advice is taken from the
substrate in to which it will be installed, it is damper manufacturer in terms of the
essential that the damper type is in accordance appropriate seal relative to the manufacturer’s
with a specification or design which has been test results.
shown by test to be capable of meeting the
required performance. It is not sufficient to assume that any type or
form of penetration seal can be utilised and the
D.7 Spatial requirements during damper manufacturer must be involved in all
installation aspects of the penetration seal selection
A specified design method can only be achieved including test data compatibility, quality,
in practice if there is sufficient space for each installation control and final inspection of the
trade to complete their activities in the defined completed installation
sequence. Recommended and tested details may
work under laboratory conditions but they may The penetration seal must be installed in
not always be suited to the prevailing site accordance with the successfully tested method
conditions with regard to space and access. It is for use when penetrated by the damper. More
not acceptable to hope that either the barrier, information on penetration seals can be found in
ductwork, damper or penetration seal the Association for Specialist Fire Protection
contractors can overcome some of the problems (ASFP) Red Book entitled Fire Stopping and
that the system designers and programmers Penetration Seals for the Construction Industry.
have failed to recognise or consider. Many
problems can be overcome if the designer works The penetration seal area and space around a
to a tabulated check list that highlight these type damper assembly must not be used for the
of considerations (see Clause D.15 of this passage of other building services as their
Appendix). Many of these difficulties can be presence will invalidate the tested penetration
overcome if the key trades are consulted prior to seal method.
and during the design and programming
process. Where a damper arrangement incorporates a
proprietary installation and expansion frame,
D.8 Identification of Fire the sealing system shall be capable of
Separating Elements accommodating any axial and / or linear
It is essential, at the tender stage, that locations, movement due to thermal expansion. Where
types and fire resistance periods of fire there is a risk of loads being transmitted from
separating elements (walls, partitions, curtains, the ducts and fire dampers to a non-loadbearing
floors, etc.) are clearly identified to the system fire barrier during a fire, the construction must
designer by the Architects representative who is be so designed to ensure that the fire barrier will
designated to provide such information. maintain its function for its full fire resistance
period.
Dimensional information for barrier openings
shall relate to the damper and its support It shall also be noted that openings in brick or
arrangement and many of the problems that blockwork walls may require lintels and the
occur can be avoided by utilising a design check system designer shall ensure that the
list (see Clause D.15 of this Appendix) and appropriate requirements are passed down to the
recognising the importance of the criteria laid fire barrier contractor responsible for forming
down in the Building Regulations such openings.
35
D.10 Damper Support systems As proprietary penetration seals may or may not
The fire damper manufacturer, via the system have loadbearing properties, it is not always
designer, will have defined the material and its possible to determine that the correct size of
size to suit the type of barrier in which the hole or reinforcing has been provided. It is
arrangement has been tested. recommended that openings in floors should be
protected against foot traffic or other
The successful installation of the damper and its unauthorised standing loads wherever possible,
supporting system will be dependent on the e.g. by independently supported chequer plate
programming of the installation with other floor, guard rail or similar protection (designed
trades and all the main installation and provided by others).
considerations being covered. To ensure that no
important installation criteria are overlooked it D.13 Controls
is recommended that a design check list is Damper support systems and penetration seals
adopted (see Clause D.15 of this Appendix) can all be affected by the interface between
dampers and controls such as actuators.
D.11 Support of adjacent ductwork Provision for their inclusion must be considered
Supports to the connecting ductwork shall be and finalised during the design stage.
provided in accordance with the requirements of
BESA Specification DW/144. D.14 Combustible materials
Materials or insulation of a combustible nature
If the ductwork connection to a damper’s spigot must not be incorporated into a ductwork
or sleeve is either a flanged breakaway joint, system within 500mm of a fire damper
secured with plastic (or similar) fixings, or a assembly
flexible joint then the connecting ductwork shall
be supported adjacent to the joint. This is a D.15 Design check lists
safety consideration as these types of The system design process as a whole involves
connections are not usually capable of taking many considerations some of which vary
the connecting ductwork’s weight. During a fire depending on project-specific factors such as
condition, the weight of the adjoining ductwork barrier type, installation sequence, space (both
will have no adverse affect on the damper for installation and future maintenance), other
assembly as either the plastic or flex materials services, etc. Every effort shall be made to
will either melt or burn away. ensure no critical factors are overlooked. To
assist in this it is advisable to work to a check
This adjacent support does not apply to socket list which is regularly up dated by drawing on
and spigot connections made with aluminium experience gained from previous projects. An
alloy mechanically closed fixings and the first example of a typical design checklist is
ductwork support beyond this joint only needs provided in Appendix ‘E.1’.
to conform to the support centres listed in
DW/144. During a fire condition, tests have
proven that such fixings melt and the adjoining
ductwork collapses under its own weight
without any adverse affect on the stability of the
damper assembly.
D.12 Load bearing on vertical ducts

Consideration shall be given to the loads
imposed on penetration seals applied to
dampers set horizontally in a vertical duct
system and this is a subject that should not be
overlooked during design meetings.
36
Appendix E E.2 Installation check list

This check list covers the practical installation
considerations to be addressed to ensure that
Design, Installation, project-specific design criteria are fulfilled
Inspection and Handover NOTE! Refer to APPENDIX ‘B’, Clause B.2.3
Check Lists on the subject of ‘Expert Judgments’ (EJ’s)
which explains valid reasons for addressing and
Communications between team members and the need resolving a recognised technical problem that
for consistency in both design and approach are key has not been covered by any technical data or
factors in achieving a compliant design. It is formal design instructions.
recommended that check lists are utilised and adapted
to suit the specific requirements of an individual E.3 Inspection and handover
project. Typical check lists for design, installation and check list
inspection / handover are included in this appendix. Having established that all parties must be made
aware of the intended final inspection and
Note! Copies of the three typical tabulated certification regime, the final installation must
checklists on the following pages are available from be checked for compliance by the nominated
the BESA website and are titled as follows: CDM coordinator or the System Designer. The
completed installation forms part of the
E.1 Design check list building’s life support strategy and nothing
As stated previously, the system design process must be left to chance with every aspect of the
as a whole involves many considerations some installation being checked against the system
of which vary depending on project-specific designers project-specific certified sketches. All
factors such as barrier type, installation final inspections must be documented in a
sequence, space (both for installation and future register that must be retained by both the system
maintenance), other services, etc. Every effort designer and the installation contractor. See
shall be made to ensure no critical factors are 5.4.3 and 5.4.4 for more detailed guidance.
overlooked. To assist in this it is advisable to
work to a check list which is regularly updated
by drawing on experience gained from previous
projects.
37
E.1 Design Check List
No. Question Guidelines Responsibility

01 What evidence of compliance with the latest Building Damper manufacturer must provide System Designer.
Regulations is available for the selected damper evidence that the installation method
installation method? meets with Building Regs.
02 What damper fire classification is required? Each damper must meet the same System Designer.
Do the system design drawings have dampers minimum fire classification as all
marked with identification codes which cross other system components
reference back to a schedule of all dampers that
includes their rating and location?
03 Into what substrate is the damper to be installed? Wall or Floor? Architect / Client.
04 From what is the substrate constructed? Concrete, blockwork, dry-lining, etc Architect / Client.
05 Is the damper frame / support compatible with the This is fundamental to a successful System Designer.
substrate type and intended installation method? installation.
06 Has the damper manufacturer been consulted as to System Designer.
the most appropriate type and layout of dampers?
07 Is the method tested and approved for the type of Assemblies for block work walls may Damper purchaser
barrier that is being protected? not be suitable for dry-lining barriers And manufacturer
08 How is the damper to be independently supported Include guidance on the use of break System Designer.
from the connecting ductwork? away joints.
09 Can the intended installation be completed within the In dry-lining, openings must be Lead Contractor.
boundaries of the construction programme? accurately planned and set out in
advance. It is difficult and expensive
to form openings to tested standards
after walls have been built
10 Have methods of retro-fitting dampers which have Retro-fitting dampers in partitions is System Designer.
been missed or modified been agreed? difficult.
11 Has sufficient room been allowed for building-in System Designer.
dampers when the entire ductwork, nearby walls,
ceilings and services are installed?
12 Has a fire-stopping contractor been consulted prior to System Designer.
design completion to advise on whether a tested
solution is available for the circumstances on site?
13 Has the fire-stopping manufacturer provided evidence System Designer.
to support the tested solution?
14 Does the fire-stopping test evidence relate to the System Designer.
actual application with appreciation of the wall type,
the damper type and the frame type?
15 Will the fire-stopping manufacturer be on site to System Designer.
provide guidance and training during installation?
16 Are load bearing supports needed for vertical ducts System Designer.
17 Is the installation of the builders work between Lead Contractor
damper frame and wall to be carried out by a suitably
qualified and approved third party installer?
18 Have materials or insulation of a combustible nature System Designer.
been excluded from the duct within 500mm of a
damper?
19 Has adequate space been provided allow for access Consider access on both sides of the System Designer.
to dampers for maintenance and testing purposes? damper for both maintenance and
future cleaning purposes.
20 Has pre-installation meeting been planned between This is essential Lead Contractor
the system designer, site management team, Building
Control Body / Fire Authority, duct/damper installer,
barrier subcontractor and manufacturers of drywall,
damper and fire-stopping systems?
38
E.2 Installation Check List

01 Has all the necessary technical information Refer to Clause 4.3 System Designer
been made available for the damper installer
and all other associated trades?
02 Has a project-specific programme of An acceptable sequence to achieve the Lead Contractor.
sequenced installation activities been same design criteria can vary from project
prepared? to project
03 Does the programme sequence of other trades Inaccessible voids and cavities caused by Lead Contractor.
allow for there being sufficient space on all adjacent walls, columns and structural
four sides of the damper to fit associated soffits shall be considered during
support systems, apply fixings and to complete programming.
the penetration seals
04 Does the programme sequence ensure that Other trades cannot ‘share’ the openings for Lead Contractor.
there are no other services installed that would dampers and their penetration seals.
prevent the damper arrangement being fitted
as per the system design?
05 Does the programme sequence ensure that Lead Contractor
there are no ceiling grids / tiles installed that
would prevent ease of installation for all
associated contractors?
06 Have solutions to any necessary on-site Altering the sequence of one or more Damper installer,
change to the installation sequence been contractors in order to achieve the design in Barrier contractor,
transmitted back to the programmer so that a more practical manner shall be Penetration seal
future projects will benefit? communicated back to the programmer for contractor.
use on future projects.
07 Has the system designer approved any ad-hoc The inclusion of non-specified products, Damper installer,
instructions issued by a third party? material and dimensional modifications may Barrier contractor,
e.g. The ‘ad-hoc’ insertion of stone mineral result in the invalidity of the final assembly Penetration seal
wool, or similar, in cavities contractor.
08 Is the method tested and approved for the type Assemblies associated with block work may Damper Purchaser
of barrier that is being protected? not be suitable for dry-lining Damper Manuf’cter
09 Is the opening in the dry-lined barrier correctly Do trimming members need to be tied back Barrier Contractor.
formed, trimmed and lined? to the soffit and slab?
10 Prior to installation are method statements, The availability of clear instructions to the Damper installer,
COSHH assessments and risk assessments installers is essential in ensuring correct Barrier contractor,
available to the installers? installation methods are adopted. Penetration seal
contractor.
11 Has the damper, duct and penetration seal Query before installation if any element All parties.
been installed as per the specification? appears to be non-compliant
12 Has adequate space been provided to allow Consider access on both sides of the System Designer.
for access to the damper for maintenance and damper for both maintenance and future
testing purposes? cleaning purposes.
39
E.3 Inspection and Handover Check List

01 Are the dampers the correct type? Confirm the damper is the correct type System Designer.
i.e. Fire, Fire/Smoke, Curtain type,
Single/Multi Blade type, etc.
02 Are the dampers correctly identified? Any unique system identification or plant System Designer or
item number must be clearly indicated Commissioning
on the damper or agreed location. Engineer
03 Are the dampers located correctly? The damper position shall be Damper Installer.
dimensionally checked against the
installation drawings / details.
04 Have supports for both the damper and adjacent Damper Installer.
ductwork been installed in accordance with the
approved method?
05 Are the dampers fitted in the correct orientation? Is damper installed the correct way up Damper Installer.
and relative to airflow / access?
06 Is access, through the ductwork, to the damper Unobstructed space shall be provided for Damper Installer to
unobstructed? safe access to damper. Also consider advise System
access through ceiling voids and Designer if problems
adjacent services. are foreseen.
07 Has the space around the damper, and within the The presence of other services will Damper Installer to
penetration, been left clear and not been used for invalidate the installation method. advise Lead
the passage of other services? Contractor if
problems are
foreseen.
08 Using the access opening provided, has the Damper Installer.
damper been left in the open position?
09 Has the dampers blade catch been released to Ensure blade operation is free from Damper Installer.
simulate failure of thermal release mechanism interference.
(damper ‘drop test’).
10 Has the damper been checked for internal With the damper in the closed position Damper Installer.
cleanliness and freedom from damage? Are inspection for damage.
vertical casings in particular free from debris?
11 Have the dampers blades been re-set following After re-setting the damper blades, Damper Installer.
the drop test and the access panel replaced? check position shown on blade position
indicator is correct.
12 At the time of the damper handover, is the fire Damper installer to record, on the Damper Installer.
barrier and penetration seal complete? handover register, if any following trades
have still to complete their activities.
13 Is the damper installation completed and Obtain relevant acceptance of the Damper Installer.
available for handover prior to system damper installation from the CDM
commissioning? coordinator
14 Is the completed handover register cross Damper Installer.
referenced back to the identification codes listed
in the system designer’s damper schedule?
40
Figure F2 F2
Appendix
APPENDIX ‘F’ F Figure
APPENDIX ‘F’
Typical Installation Sequences Figure F2
Typical
Typical
Installation
Installation
This appendix Sequences
highlights two different but Soffit
Sequences
typical installation sequences associated with a Soffit
This appendix
damper systemhighlights
(based ontwo different
Methods 1 and but 5
Duct FD/Sleeve Duct
typical installation
This respectively)
appendix highlights sequences associated
two different and
with illustrations with a
but typical
notes Assembly
damper
installation system
describing the (based
sequences associatedon Methods
considerations withthat 1 and
a damper
need to 5be
system FD/Sleeve
Duct Duct
respectively)
(based on into
taken Methods with
account illustrations
1 toandensure and
5 respectively) notes
that all partieswith Assembl
describing
illustrations andthe considerations
notes describing that
the need to be
considerations
involved in the installation are able to meet the
thattaken
need
damperinto
to beaccount
taken intoto ensure
manufacturers andthat
account all parties
to ensure
the that all
system
involved
parties in the
involved
designer’s installation
in the areare
installation
requirements. ableable
to meet
to meetthethe
Partition
damper manufacturers and
damper manufacturers and the system designer’s the system
designer’s
Sequencerequirements.
requirements. 1 – Damper installed using sleeve Partition
and angle clamps in pre-formed opening in
Sequence
vertical 1 Damper
– Damper installed inusing sleeve Slab
Sequence 1 –partition asinstalled
outlined using Method
sleeve 1.
and
and angle clamps in pre-formed
angle clamps in pre-formed opening in vertical opening in
vertical partition as outlined in Method 1. Slab
partition as outlined in Method 1.
Figure F1 Fig F2 - Elevation with sleeve, angle clamps, damper
Figure F1 F1 and duct, including breakaway duct joints, fitted to
Figure Fig F2the
- Elevation with sleeve,inangle clamps, damper
suit pre-formed opening the partition.
and duct, including breakaway duct joints, fitted to
Soffit
suit the pre-formed opening in the partition.
Soffit 1B – Designated Contractor/s to fit damper, sleeve,
Finished opening 1B and
clamps – Designated
ductwork (which Contractor/s
may be to fit damper,
complete with an
formed in partition sleeve,
access panel clamps
for andre-setting
future ductwork of (which
the mayrelease
thermal be
Finished opening 1B – Designated
complete with anContractor/s
access panel to for
fit future
damper,re-
mechanism)
sleeve, clampsensuring that
andthermal the access
ductwork (which panelmay is on be the
formed in partition
sidesetting
of the of thethat
barrier is release
designated to mechanism)
be free of
complete
ensuring with
that an access
the access panel isforonfuture
panel the side re-other
of
services
setting and
of obstructions
the thermal during
release future maintenance
mechanism)
the barrier
activities (see that
Fig isF2).
designated
Dependingto beon freetheof type
other of
ensuring
services thatand the access panel is on
obstructions the side
during of
future
Partition breakaway
the duct joint,
barrier that is designated the duct is to be supported
maintenance activities to(see be freeFig of other F2).
accordingly,
services i.e. either
and flanged breakaway
obstructions during joints or
future
Partition Depending on the type of breakaway duct
flexible joints must have an (see
maintenance adjacent duct F2). support
joint, the duct activities
is to be supported Fig accordingly,
Slab whereas
Depending socket and spigot
on the breakaway type breakaway
type of breakaway joints
ductonly
i.e. either flanged joints or flexible
need to haveduct
joint, a duct
is tosupport to suit DW/144 support
Slab jointsthemust have bean supported
adjacent accordingly,
duct support
centres.
i.e.
whereas socket and spigot type orbreakaway
either flanged breakaway joints flexible
Fig F1 - Elevation with partition and designated joints must have an adjacent
joints only need to have a duct support duct support
to suit
clearance opening ( including expansion allowance ) Design
whereas / practical
socket
DW/144 support centres. and considerations
spigot type breakaway
Fig F1 - Elevation
formed to suit thewith partition
eventual and designated
damper / sleeve assembly. relating
joints onlyto need Sequence
to have a duct 1 support to suit
clearance opening ( including expansion allowance ) Have
DW/144the following trades been sequenced in order to
Design support
/ practical centres.
considerations relating to
formed to suit the eventual damper / sleeve assembly. avoid ductwork installation difficulties such as building
Sequence 1
services
Designand / or ceiling
/ practical grids being installed
considerations relating at ato lower
1A – Designated Contractor to install the level
Havethanthe the ductworktrades system which prevent inthe
Sequence 1 following been sequenced
1A –partition
Designated Contractor
/ barrier to install
including the partition
a formed (and / damper
1A – Designated Contractor orderand /to or ductwork
avoid being lifted intoinstallation
ductwork place and the
barrier including
where a formed
necessary (and wheretonecessary
lined) install the
opening lined)
to Have the damper
following
partition / barrier including a formed (and sleeve and
difficulties suchbeingastrades been
secured
building insequenced
services and /inor
accordance with
opening to accommodate
accommodate the damper the and
damper
sleeveand sleeve
assembly order
the ceiling to
damper manufacturers avoid ductwork
instructions. installation
where necessary lined) opening to – grids being installed at a lower level
assembly including
including the specified
the specified expansion
expansion allowance
allowance difficulties
than the ductworksuch as building system services
which prevent and / or the
accommodate
– all all
as indicated the
as indicated damper
in the in and
damper sleeve
the design
damper assembly
design
specification ceiling grids being installed at a lower level
including the specified expansion allowance – damper and / or ductwork being lifted into
specification
(see Fig F1). (see Fig F1). than
place theand ductwork
the sleeve system which being
and damper prevent the
secured
all as indicated in the damper design damper and / or ductwork being lifted into
specification (see Fig F1). in accordance with the damper manufacturers
place and the sleeve and damper being secured
instructions.
in accordance with the damper manufacturers
instructions.
41
38 Rev F - Sep 09
Sequence 2 – Damper installed prior to the Figure F4

Sequence Figure
F4F4
Sequence
installation of2 a2– vertical
–Damper
Damper installedprior
installed
dry-lining priortotothe
partition the
using Figure
drop installation
installation
rod supportsofof a vertical
a and
vertical
damper dry-lining
dry-lining partitionin
lugs aspartition
outlined
using drop rod supports and damper
using5.drop rod supports and damper lugs
Method lugsasas
outlined Soffit
outlined inin Method
Method 5. 5. Soffit
Figure F3 F3
Figure
Figure F3
Duct
Duct FDFD Duct
Duct
Soffit
Soffit Partition
Partition - incl
- incl
framed / lined
framed / lined
FDFD complete
complete
expansion opening
expansion opening
Duct with factory Duct
Duct with factory Duct
fitted cleats
fitted cleats
Slab
Slab
Partition
Partition centre
centre
FigFig
F4F4 - Elevation
- Elevation with
with damper
damper / duct
/ duct installed
installed first,
first,
then partition / opening framed, lined and clad
then partition / opening framed, lined and clad around around
Slab
Slab thethe damper
damper / duct
/ duct installation
installation
2C2C2C
–
– Partition
Partition Contractor
–Partition Contractor toto install
Contractor to install
install thethe
the partition
FigFig
F3F3 - Elevation
- Elevation with
with support,
support, damper
damper (incl
(incl support
support partitionframework
partition framework(see (seeFigFigF4),
F4),with
with thethe
framework
damper (see Fig
opening F4), with
also the damper
framed opening
and linedalso
cleat ) and duct ( including breakaway duct joints ) )
cleat ) and duct ( including breakaway duct joints damper opening also framed and lined
fitted framed and lined including
accordingly, including the damper
necessary
fitted to to
suitsuit
thethe
headhead channel
channel ( or( or
itsits centre
centre line
line ) ) accordingly,
accordingly, including thethenecessary
necessary damper
damper expansion
expansionallowances,allowances, as
allowances,asasindicatedindicated
indicatedinintheinthethe
expansion
damper
damperdesign specification.
design specification.
damper design specification.
2A – Designated Contractor to either fit a dry-lining
head2A2A – Designated
channel
– Designated Contractor
or markContractor
the centreline toto ofeither
either thefit fit a dry-
partition
a dry- on 2D 2D– Partition
2D – – Partition
Contractor
Partition to clad tothe clad
Contractor
Contractor
framework
to clad thethe
lininghead
thelining
soffit. head
(see Fig channel
F3). or mark
channel or mark the centreline ofthe centreline of including its
framework openings and
including apply, if specified, any stone
framework including itsits openings
openings and
and apply,
apply, if if
thethe partition
partition onon thethe soffit.
soffit. (see
(see FigFig F3).
F3). mineral wool, any
specified, or similar,
stone to the cavity
mineral surrounding
wool,
specified, any stone mineral wool, or similar, or similar,the
2B – Designated Contractor/s to fit damper (using damper.
toto
thethe cavity
cavity surrounding
surrounding thethe damper.
damper.
2B2B– hangers
support –Designated
Designatedsecured Contractor/s
to factory
Contractor/s totofitted
fitfitdamper
damper
damper
support(using
cleats)support
and hangers
ductwork
(using support hangers secured to factory secured
(which must to
be factory
complete
with fitted
an
fitted damper
access
damper support
panelsupport
for future cleats)
re-setting
cleats) and and ductwork
ofductwork
the thermal
release(which
(which must
mechanism) be complete
so that the
must be complete with
withdamper an
an accessaccess
bladepanel panel
centre-
isforwithin
linefor future
future the re-setting
barrier width
re-setting ofofthe thethermal
and thermal
the access release
panel is
release
mechanism)
on mechanism) so
the side of thesobarrier that
that the the damper
that damper
is designated blade
bladetocentre-centre-
be free of
other lineservices
line is iswithin
withinthe
andthebarrier
barrier
obstructionswidthand
width and thetheaccess
during access
future
panel
maintenance is on
panel is activities the
on the side side
(see Fig of
of the the barrier
F3). barrier
Depending that is
thatonisthe
type designated
of breakaway
designated totoduct
bebefree freeofthe
joint, ofother
other
duct services
isservices
to be supported
andand
obstructions
accordingly,
obstructions i.e. either during
duringflanged future
future breakaway maintenance
maintenance joints or
activities
activities
flexible (see
(see
joints Fig
Fig have
shall F3). Depending
F3). Depending
an adjacentonduct on the
the type type
support
of breakaway
of breakaway
whereas socket andduct duct
spigot joint,
joint,
type the the duct
duct isjoints
breakaway is to
to be be
only
need supported
supported accordingly,
to have aaccordingly,
duct support to i.e. either
i.e.suiteither
DW/144 flanged
flanged
support
breakawayjoints
breakaway
centres. jointsororflexible
flexiblejointsjointsshallshallhave have
an adjacent duct support
an adjacent duct support whereas socket and whereas socket and
spigot
spigot type
type breakaway
breakaway joints
joints only
only needneed totohavehave
a duct support to suit DW/144
a duct support to suit DW/144 support centres. support centres.
42
39 Rev F - Sep 09
Appendix G G.2 The design office.

Parties responsible for the ductwork and damper
design shall familiarise themselves with the full
Key guidance points for contents of DW/145 and not just this appendix
and its recommendations.
the system designer and
the damper installation G.2.1 Selecting the appropriate
contractor damper
By using a damper catalogue or
The purpose of this appendix is to provide a quick contacting the manufacturers directly,
reference to the key points of DW/145 which shall be select an appropriate damper. If the
considered by the system designer and the damper information obtained does not clearly
installation contractor and their on-site fitter. System reflect the conditions that are expected
designers, depending on individual contractual on site then discuss with the damper
responsibilities, may be either building services manufacturer the best option(s) that they
consultants, mechanical services contractors or, in the can provide which they are prepared to
case of ‘design and supply’ projects, ductwork endorse and satisfy the need to only
contractors. provide dampers and methods of
installation that have been fire tested.
References in this appendix to the ‘design office’ Evidence must be made available that
relates to the source of the system design be it any one the method has been fire tested by a
of the three parties referred to in the previous UKAS accredited laboratory or
paragraph. equivalent.
Much of the information in this appendix is ideal for Damper manufacturers will provide
training purposes both off-site for those involved in the dimensionally detailed guidance on how
design office and on-site for the damper fitter. Section the damper is to be installed including
G.4 presents the key points in a simplified format any requirements for damper
which can be used as a refresher training guide or a assembly expansion. It must also be
simple ‘aide memoir’. A copy of this appendix in a ensured that the method specified is
format that that can be easily carried and referenced by practical relative to the site conditions
the damper fitter is available from the BESA website. that exist for the project.
G.1 Responsibilities Once selected, it is imperative that only

Damper installations are a critical element of a the damper manufacturer’s model of
building’s life safety strategy. The initial damper and the agreed method of
responsibility for ensuring a compliant installation are used. Failure to adhere to
installation lies with the design office and the the agreed methods will invalidate any
final responsibility with the on-site fitter. It is responsibility on the part of the damper
essential that lines of communication are formally manufacturer including using another
established between the parties and, when manufacturer’s similar product
appropriate, that the CDM coordinator monitors without approval. It is not an option to
and progresses such communications. Failure simply purchase a similar unit from a
by either party in not recognising and working third party stockist; this would be a
to formal design parameters may result in change in the design and therefore a
serious consequences especially if, during a fire breach of the CDM Regulations.
insurance claim, it can be proven that any party
has acted in a negligent manner. Dampers are not G.2.2 Spatial coordination
just installed to minimise fire and smoke damage Using the contract issue drawings, the
to the fabric and contents of a building but, design office must make provision for
more importantly, they are there to save lives. sufficient space and access not only to
43
enable the damper fitter and follow-on G.3.1.2 Manufacturer’s details for
trades to install the complete damper incorporating any expansion
arrangement, but also to allow both allowance including, where
handover and future maintenance appropriate, damper unit
activities to be performed. expansion frames.
G.2.3 Project specific sketches G.3.1.3 Damper to ductwork connection

Having selected an appropriate damper, details including any specific
it is necessary to incorporate this requirements for fixings, joints,
information into a project specific sketch breakaway joints, fastenings, etc.
which shall include the detailed
information required by the fitter as G.3.1.4 In addition to indicating the
listed in Clause G.3.1 of this appendix. supporting method for the
damper, it is important that the
G.2.4 Installation sequence dimensional location of the first
The design office must liaise with the ductwork support relative to the
designated principal contractor and any damper centreline or face is
specialist contractors involved in indicated – for both sides of the
ensuring that a practical sequence is damper.
established that allows all parties to
complete each element of the G.3.1.5 If not already incorporated into
installation, i.e. the damper, the barrier, the connecting ductwork in the
the penetration seal and the ductwork factory, the position of (a) an
connections. access cover that is free of
obstructions and on the
G.3 The damper fitter appropriate side of the barrier for
In addition to working to the project-specific blade testing, re-setting and
information provided by either the design office maintenance, and (b), if
or their installation supervisor, the damper fitter necessary, a second access cover
not only has a responsibility to comply with that on the opposite side of the barrier
information without deviation but they also that may be called for by the
have a responsibility to undertake the pre- ductwork cleaning specification.
handover checks. (See G.3.3)
G.3.1.6 A programme clearly detailing
G.3.1 Information to be the sequence of installation
provided to the damper relative to each activity.
fitter
It is not an acceptable practice for the G.3.1.7 Inspection and handover
damper fitter to be expected to follow requirements to be witnessed and
the custom and practice adopted on recorded in the handover register.
previous unrelated projects. The
following information must always be G.3.1.8 Any other requirements.
provided by the design office:
G.3.2 Responsibilities of the
G.3.1.1 Project-specific detailed and damper fitter
dimensioned arrangements It is imperative that the damper fitter
incorporating the compartment reports back to the design office any
barrier, the damper and the activity that may arise on site that could
penetration seal. cause the damper arrangement to be
non-compliant.
44
G.3.2.1 If the damper fitter has been G.3.2.5 The design office must be
requested to deviate from any of informed if a pre-formed dry-
the information provided in lining barrier opening has not
G.3.1 without formal instruction been pre-framed and, if
being provided by an authorised necessary, lined and does not
party involved in the damper appear to be fixed to the soffit /
arrangement, the installation slab. It is not sufficient for a
supervisor must refer such ‘raw’ opening to be simply cut
matters to the design office for into the barrier. A clear indication
acceptance before acting on the that an opening is not
request. satisfactory is if the barrier itself
is unstable before the installation
G.3.2.2 It is recommended that the of the damper assembly.
damper fitter checks the
operation of the damper before G.3.2.6 If before installing the damper
installing so that any malfunction and / or duct connections, it
can be corrected. NB! If the becomes apparent there will be
damper fitter has been requested in-sufficient access around all
by an authorised party to sides of the damper assembly, on
substitute a damper from a both sides of the barrier, to either
different manufacturer to that fit the damper support system or
specified, this request must be to complete the penetration seal
approved by the design office as then, via the design office, the
such a substitution should only affected party needs to be
be undertaken with the system consulted as an installation
designer’s consent. sequence change may need to be
introduced.
G.3.2.3 If an issue arises relating to
prevailing site conditions with G.3.3 Pre-handover checks by
regard to space and access, the the damper fitter
situation must be referred to the Prior to handing over the damper to the
design office who in turn, with designated party, the damper fitter, in
the entire test evidence available, conjunction with the installation
take the problem, via the CDM supervisor, must carry out the following
coordinator, to the damper checks to ensure that the installation is
manufacturer and the building compliant:
control authorities in order that a
practical solution can be agreed. G.3.3.1 Dampers are internally clean and
free from damage.
G.3.2.4 If requested to fit stone mineral
wool, or similar, in any G.3.3.2 Dampers continue to operate
expansion gap which is not a after installation and can be reset
specified requirement of the from the access provided.
project-specific information that
the damper fitter has been G.3.3.3 All internal and external control
provided with, the request must devices are accessible and in
be referred to the design office. good condition.
Such additions could render a
damper inoperable or G.3.3.4 Terminals on connections to
compromise the function for control systems are accessible.
which the damper was installed.
45
G.3.3.5 Dampers are installed the correct ● Damper reference number

way up relative to airflow and (identified relative to contract
access. drawings)
● Date
G.3.3.6 Confirm the damper has been left ● Witness’s name in both printed
in the open position. and signature form.
● Activities which are incomplete
G.3.3.7 Release the damper blade catch at the time of handover, i.e.
or mechanism to simulate failure ductwork connections,
of the thermal release compartment barrier and
mechanism, i.e. a damper drop penetration seals. NB! This is
test. essential especially if it is found
that the eventually completed
G.3.3.8 If the barrier is to be built after installation is not compliant and
the installation of the damper remedial actions are required.
arrangement, ensure that
dampers fitted with expansion G.4 Key considerations – a
frames have their building ties Summary
bent out prior to the application
of the penetration seal. System Design office
● Only use damper manufacturers who can
G.3.4 Inspection and handover provide evidence that the installation
by the damper fitter method has been fire tested by a UKAS
In conjunction with the design office, accredited laboratory or equivalent.
either the damper fitter or the installation ● If site conditions do not permit the use of
supervisor needs to formally hand over a damper manufacturer’s particular
the installation for final inspection by installation method, discuss and agree
the CDM coordinator. All final with them alternative methods that they
inspections must be documented and are prepared to endorse.
recorded in a register that is retained by ● Prepare detailed drawings of the
all interested parties which must include complete arrangement (damper, fire
the identification details of the CDM
barrier / slab and penetration seal) and
coordinator who has witnessed any tests
gain client’s approval.
and taken over the damper arrangement.
● Agree an installation sequence with all
involved parties that takes into
G.3.4.1 Undertake a witnessed test that
consideration spatial availability and
confirms the damper
which allows them to complete their
mechanism performed
element of a compliant arrangement.
satisfactorily and can be reset
● Prepare a handover register for use by
from the access provided. NB!
the damper fitter.
The need for ‘man access’ to re-
set a damper is a critical factor
especially if it at a later date
Damper fitter (or their
non-related ‘obstructions’ have
installation supervisor)
been fitted by other parties after ● Only use the method illustrated in the
handover which restrict this project-specific information.
critical operation. ● Never revert to methods used on a
previous project unless approved by the
G.3.4.2 Following the handover event, design team.
the register records must ● Expansion allowance will have been
include the following incorporated into the contract drawings
information: – it must not be ignored.
46
● Before installation, check that the

damper is free from damage and Appendix H
operates correctly and that it is the unit
specified on the contract drawings. UKAS fire certification
● Do not use substitute dampers.
● If a problem arises that is outside your bodies
control and which may result in a non-
compliant installation, report the BRE Global Ltd (incorporating the Loss
situation back to the design office. Prevention Certification Board, LPCB)
● If the compartment barrier (wall or slab) BRE, Bucknalls Lane, Watford, Herts, WD25 9XX
is not formed or finished-off as per the Tel: +44 (0)1923 664 100
contract drawings, report the situation Email: enquiries@breglobal.com
back to the design office. Web link: http://www.redbooklive.com
● During installation, ensure that the
damper is fitted to suit the airflow Chiltern International Fire
direction and that it is not upside down. Stocking Lane, Hughenden Valley, High Wycombe,
● After installation, check that the damper Bucks HP14 4ND
is clean and free from damage. Tel: +44 (0) 1494 569 800
● Connecting ducts must only be fitted to Email: cif@chilternfire.co.uk
suit the agreed installation sequence of Web link: http://www.chilternfire.co.uk
all involved parties.
● Fixings, cleats, duct supports, etc, must FM Approvals Limited
only be fitted in accordance with the 1 Windsor Dials, Arthur Road, Windsor, Berkshire,
contract drawings and a note must be SL4 1RS
made of the specified type of fixing and, Tel: +44 (0)1753 750 000
in particular, it’s material. Some similar Email: cpd@fmapprovals.com
but totally different fixings such as Web link: http://www.fmapprovals.com
mechanically closed rivets may be, by
design, manufactured from either steel International Fire Consultants Ltd
or an aluminium alloy 20 Park Street, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire,
● Prior to handover, ensure that the HP27 9AH.
damper blades can be accessed and re- Tel: + 44 (0)1844 275 500
set via the access panels in the adjacent Email: ifc@intfire.com
ductwork connections. Web link: http://www.intfire.com
● Ensure that the appropriate information
is recorded in the handover register. Warrington Certification Ltd
Holmesfield Road, Warrington, Cheshire WA1 2DS
Tel: +44 (0) 1925 646 777
Email: info@warringtonfire.net
Web link: http://www.warringtonfire.net and
http://www.bodycote.com
47
NOTES
48
NOTES
49
Building EnginEERing SERvicES ASSociATion
BESA Publications
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www.theBESA.com
BESA Publications
old Mansion House, Eamont Bridge, Penrith, cumbria, cA10 2BX
Tel: 01768 860405, Fax: 01768 860401
Email: publications.info@theBESA.com
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DW 145 - Guide To Good Practice For The Installation of Fire and Smoke Dampers

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Building Engineering Services Association

Building Engineering Services Association

Guide to good practice: © may 2010

Building Engineering Services Association

Whilst fire and smoke dampers have been in use for

the Group also believed, however, that a complementary publication was

It identifies, clearly and concisely, the matters that must be addressed

also acknowledged is the universal responsibility we all carry for the

Method 3 Pre-formed vertical or horizontal 22

OTHER DUCTWORK-RELATED BESA PUBLICATIONS

will be withdrawn leaving the European product

NOTE! It is recommended that in allocating (Specialist Engineering Contractors Group) and

Possible providers See DW/145

1.1 Responsible party

Independent body to fire test a damper

1.4 In accordance with Building Regulation

1.5 Appoint a CDM co-ordinator to facilitate good Responsible party

1.7 Contractors responsible for

1.10 Complete all handover and witnessing Damper installation

Fire and smoke dampers are installed as part

recognise and understand all aspects of the

3.2.6 Damper procurement 3.2.9 Penetration seals

The construction programme shall be

3.2.8 Fire separating elements/

system designers and installers is

System Design There are many important design

Extended field of application BS EN unit of the smallest section to be

Classification standard BS EN 13501- EIS180 – leakage rated fire damper with

If an issue arises relating to prevailing ● Inspection and handover requirements

4.3 Technical information

● Damper manufacturers test data sheets

compiled which is based on proven information

5.0 A successful and compliant damper installation 5.3 Sequence of installation

On completion of the works, the team

5.4.3.1 Dampers are internally clean

Following the checks the damper(s)

5.4.4 Final inspection and

The methods and illustrations on the following

Methods 1 and 2 are the preferred methods for use with

Such are the responsibilities involved in the overall

The main subjects addressed in the Grey Book 2nd

single section), manufacturers may

Activation temperatures will be third party (notified body) would be

B.2.8 Penetration Leakage (S)

a) increase the average

Appendix C C.2 Brief explanation of Approved

C.1 Introduction Also in these areas, there is the

Expert Judgments). Failure to adhere to this

System Design Where prevailing conditions result in a

D.3 Damper manufacturers’ D.4.1 Methods of Installation

should be avoided because of the (c) Be adequately protected

D.4.5 Damper / Assemblies D.4.6 Safe Access for future

barrier / penetration opening can accommodate D.9 Penetration Seals

D.12 Load bearing on vertical ducts

Appendix E E.2 Installation check list

E.1 Design Check List

No. Question Guidelines Responsibility

E.2 Installation Check List

No. Question Guidelines Responsibility

E.3 Inspection and Handover Check List

No. Question Guidelines Responsibility

Sequence 2 – Damper installed prior to the Figure F4