Installing Fire-Rated Glass Partitions

Things to Consider While Installing Fire-Rated Glass Partitions 

Protection from fire is a necessity. There are numerous measures that can be taken to protect property and lives in the event of a fire.

Due to changes in building materials and designs of buildings/structures over time, the use of the combination of fire products has varied. Over the years, the use of glass as a major construction material for commercial buildings has increased.

This has mandated the use of fire-rated glass and fire-rated glass partitions.

Fire-rated glass and fire-rated glass partitions (aka glazed partitions) are deemed to be fire barriers and fire compartments. As such, they prevent fire and smoke from spreading for the duration of their fire rating.

Fire-rated glass partitions (aka glazed partitions) consist of the material used as a trim or encasing around the fire-rated glass. Fire-rated glass partitions (aka glazed partitions) are used for the following reasons:

a) Have clear through vision across the partition areas for security, conventions, convenience, communication, vigilance, control and supervision.

b) It can be necessary for the transmission of light across the areas at the location.

c) Aesthetics and ambience of the location due to its functional requirements or surrounding installations can make it necessary to match it with glazed areas.

d) Major energy-saving and construction ease and economy can also be sometimes a reason for opting for glazed areas at a particular partition location.

The glazing can also be in the form of operating doors so that multiple purposes are served like access, light transmission, security, through vision & aesthetics altogether.

Fire-Rated Glass Partitions and doors thus become one of the most important passive fire protection systems.

One of the major advantages of glass partitions and doors is that it can be very easily and safely broken during an emergency if through access becomes necessary.

The following are a few important factors to be kept in mind while deciding the use of fire-rated glass doors and partitions:

1. Locations where Installation can be advantageous:

As per most common architectural conventions, location of glazed partitions and doors are lobbies, staircases, cafeteria, progressive segregation of security areas at public places like airports, Malls, Commercial offices, Hospitals, Educational Institutes, and even process industries like pharmaceuticals, food processing, fine chemicals, biotech parks and agricultural processing plant areas. Security and emergency escapes are some of the important places where such partitions can be located. The installations made at these places will enable easy evacuation in times of panic and emergency. In fire conditions, it can be easy for the firefighters to get easy access to areas across the glazed partitions if necessary. Of course, all the safety norms are required to be followed before making any kind of installation.

2. Importance of Fire Rated Glass:

Employing glass in fire compartmentation by way of doors or partitions is by choice and should be kept to a minimum if the cost is of concern. However, it still remains one of the most common materials of construction for architects and interior decorators. As compared to other compartmentation alternative materials, glass is the impeccable modern and aesthetically pleasing solution.

One thing to know is that fire-rated glass is extremely different from normal glass. So, one should never substitute it with any other glass as it will put fire safety at risk. It is quite essential to know that fire rated glass are developed, manufactured, the type tested to fire test and various important safety tests, certified and listed ( UL / CERTIFIRE / FM etc.) for specific functional application to protect against fire. Definitely, normal glass is never safe to install in fire-rated doors and partitions.

3. Correct Fire Rating is Imperative:

Well, we cannot get fire-rated glass all under one common parameter. Depending on the performance levels of the fire-related glass, separate ratings are given to them. It should be understood that fire-rated glass will usually be recognized for its performance from 20 minutes to 120 minutes fire rating.

The framework used to install the fire-rated glass in the form of a door or a partition is also equally important. It is necessary that the framework also be type tested as an assembly with the proposed glass for desired fire rating, before being installed.

4. Verifying listing, certification, application and labelling of Fire-rated glass:

When it comes to the matter of safety, no compromises are accepted. In this regard, selection of proper tested, certified, listed, labelled glass ( UL/ FM/ CERTIFIRE etc.) is necessary for desired glass quality for its guaranteed performance. All the documents and sources of procurement should be traceable to its originality with responsibility. As per the standard time-temperature curve, fire-rated glasses are tested to a maximum fire temperature exposure up to 1000 degree Centigrade. (approx. 1850 degree Fahrenheit.)

5. Glass should be Fitted Properly:

As a matter of safety, it is important to hire services of trained & skilled installers for the installation of fire-rated glass doors and partitions. Application of gaskets, intumescent seals, beadings and glass covers are important and require skills.

6. Commercially available types of fire-rated glasses:

There are a wide variety of fire-rated glasses available commercially. The type to choose depends upon the application besides fire rating.

• It can be non-safety type single layer, limited temperature resistance, limited fire rating class of glass, which can be cut to the desired size at the site. This will generally be ”partially clear” or “clear wired” type of glass.

• Another type will be clear thin (5 to 6 mm thick) tempered safety glass with good fire rating, with very low heat radiation resistance (less than 20 minutes, 15 KW/m2 at a 1-meter distance)

• There can be multilayered jelly-filled clear glass with or without lamination. The outer layers can have different properties like UV resistance, antiglare, toughened etc. Such glass can be of medium thickness ( 10 to 20 mm thick). It can also be insulated for a short duration of up to 20 minutes and limited to high radiation resistance.

• One more type of non-safety- clear glass is “Borosilicate” glass. It is comparatively thin ( 5-6 mm thickness), with good fire rating, high-temperature resistance, good impact resistance, Resistance to hose stream test. It has low radiation resistance.

• High thickness ( 30 to 35 mm thick) multilayered tempered glass, with good insulation on exposure to fire. It can be coated/ film laminated for other important properties like antiglare, UV resistance, non-stick surface and colour tinge. However, the coatings are highly prone to scratches in normal use and handling, hence difficult to maintain or improve by cleaning.

The importance of Fire-rated Glazed Partitions and doors is also important from point of view of its limitations as follows:

• From a safety point of view the glass used for fire rated glazed doors and partitions should be a safety glass besides being fire-rated (namely – heat treated toughened / tempered / laminated).

In case of emergency, if the glass receives any impact it should get shredded into small crystal-like pieces, which pose minimum danger of injury due to sharp edges in broken glass.

• Tempering is a lengthy process and no alterations to any dimensions of glass is possible at site during installation. So judicious planning and design details get involved at the initial stages of the project to freeze glass dimensions with tempered glass.

• Transparency of the glass also results in the transmission of heat radiation, which makes it difficult to have transparency and insulation properties together to be retained during fire incidence. If transparency can be achieved, insulation is very limited and vise versa. A transparent glass turns opaque when exposed to fire in order to achieve insulation properties.

• Being fragile in nature and high in density and high in price, it cannot be used as a temporary partition for makeshift arrangements.

Last important thing to mention here is that use of glass for fire-rated compartmentations in the form of doors and partitions is inevitable, but the selection of the type of glass and its framework assembly has to be done cautiously with in-depth planning for desired performance and effects.

Unveiling the Fire Risk of New Building Materials

 Unveiling the Fire Risk of New Building Materials

As the construction industry continues to evolve, new building materials are being introduced with the promise of enhanced efficiency, aesthetics, and sustainability. However, it is crucial to recognize that certain new building materials may pose an increased risk of fire incidents in buildings. In this article, we delve into the potential fire hazards associated with the use of these materials and highlight the importance of adopting proactive measures to ensure building safety.

Understanding the Risks: 

New building materials can exhibit different fire characteristics that increase the risk of fire incidents, including:

·        Combustibility: Some materials may be more prone to catching fire or burning rapidly, intensifying the spread of flames.

·        Toxicity: Certain materials, when exposed to fire, can release toxic gases and smoke, posing serious health hazards to occupants.

·        Structural Integrity: Fire can weaken the structural integrity of buildings constructed with new materials, potentially leading to collapse.

Examples of New Building Materials: 

a) Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam: Widely used for insulation, EPS foam can contribute to the rapid spread of fire and produce toxic smoke when ignited. 

b) Composite Panels: These panels often consist of combustible materials, such as polyethylene or aluminum composite panels, which can fuel fire incidents. 

c) Engineered Wood Products: While sustainable and versatile, certain engineered wood products may have lower fire resistance compared to traditional lumber, increasing the risk of fire spread.

Mitigating Fire Risks:

To mitigate the fire risks associated with new building materials, several proactive measures can be implemented:

·        Compliance with Fire Safety Standards: Adherence to rigorous fire safety codes and regulations ensures that buildings are constructed and equipped with adequate fire protection systems.

·        Enhanced Fire Detection and Suppression Systems: Installing advanced fire detection systems, sprinkler systems, and fire-resistant barriers can help detect and control fire incidents promptly.

·        Proper Material Selection and Testing: Prioritize materials with proven fire-resistant properties and consider conducting thorough fire testing before incorporating new materials into building designs.

·        Education and Training: Provide comprehensive fire safety training to building occupants, ensuring they understand evacuation procedures, fire extinguisher usage, and general fire safety practices.

Point of Concern:

While new building materials bring innovation and sustainability to the construction industry, it is crucial to assess their fire risks. By understanding the potential hazards, adopting stringent fire safety measures, and promoting responsible material selection and usage, we can mitigate the risk of fire incidents in buildings. Building owners, architects, contractors, and regulatory bodies must collaborate to prioritize safety and ensure that the integration of new materials aligns with fire safety standards. Together, we can create buildings that not only embody modernity but also prioritize the well-being and safety of occupants.

Some examples of sustainable building materials include:

·        Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource known for its strength, durability, and versatility. Bamboo can be used for various applications, including flooring, wall panels, and furniture.

·        Reclaimed Wood is salvaged from old buildings, barns, or other structures and repurposed for construction. The material reduces the demand for newly harvested timber and gives a second life to materials that would otherwise go to waste.

·        Recycled Steel is a widely used material in construction. Recycled steel can be used for structural elements, roofing, and cladding, providing strength and durability to buildings.

·  Recycled Concrete is created by crushing and reusing old concrete structures or waste concrete from construction sites. It serves as a sustainable substitute for traditional concrete, reducing the need for new aggregates. Recycled concrete can be used for foundations, roadways, and structural elements.

·        Rammed Earth construction involves compacting a mixture of soil, gravel, sand, and stabilizers within formwork to create load-bearing walls. This ancient technique has gained popularity due to its low environmental impact and thermal properties, providing natural insulation.

·        Hempcrete is a composite material made from the woody core fibers of the hemp plant mixed with lime and water. It’s lightweight, insulating, and has excellent thermal properties. Hempcrete is renewable, carbon-negative, and has low energy requirements during production and commonly used for walls, insulation, and non-load-bearing elements.

Striking the balance between innovation and protection

Balancing sustainability goals with fire protection requirements is an important consideration. We must address fire safety challenges associated with sustainable building materials, energy-efficient designs, renewable energy systems, and green building practices. Consider these key strategies for achieving a balance between innovation and protection:

1.Fire-Resistant Materials

One of the fundamental aspects of fire safety in sustainable construction is the selection and use of fire-resistant materials. Traditional materials such as concrete, brick, and steel continue to be reliable choices due to their inherent fire-resistant properties. However, sustainable construction encourages the exploration of alternative materials. Examples include fire-resistant timber, which can be derived from responsibly managed forests and possesses improved fire performance through treatments like fire-retardant coatings.

2. Passive Fire Protection Systems

Passive fire protection systems play a critical role in sustainable construction by preventing fire spread and providing additional time for safe evacuation. These systems include fire-resistant barriers, compartmentation, and fire-rated walls, floors, and doors. By incorporating these measures into sustainable designs, the risk of fire spread can be minimized while maintaining the building’s energy efficiency.

3. Fire Detection and Suppression

Innovations in fire detection and suppression technologies are essential in sustainable construction. Intelligent fire detection systems, such as smoke and heat detectors with advanced algorithms, can provide early warning signs, enabling prompt response and evacuation. Additionally, water mist systems and gaseous suppression systems are environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional sprinkler systems, as they use less water and leave fewer residues, minimizing water usage and potential water damage.

4. Integration of Building Automation Systems

Building automation systems (BAS) contribute to fire safety in sustainable construction by enabling efficient control, monitoring, and coordination of various fire protection and life safety systems. BAS can integrate fire detection, suppression, and smoke control systems, allowing for enhanced response capabilities and optimized energy consumption. Furthermore, BAS can facilitate real-time data collection, improving maintenance practices and ensuring the ongoing reliability of fire safety measures.

5. Performance-Based Design

Performance-based design approaches are gaining traction in sustainable construction, allowing flexibility in meeting fire safety objectives while promoting innovation. By utilizing advanced fire modeling and simulation techniques, designers can assess the behavior of fire within a building and evaluate the effectiveness of proposed fire protection measures. This approach enables the optimization of fire safety systems, ensuring that sustainability goals are met without compromising occupant safety.

Preventive maintenance (PM) of Fire Sprinkler System

Preventive Maintenance (PM) of Fire Sprinkler System 

Preventive maintenance (PM) is the regular and routine maintenance of equipment and assets in order to keep them running and prevent any costly unplanned downtime from unexpected equipment failure. Testing, servicing, calibration, inspection, adjustment, alignment, and installation are the seven elements of a preventive maintenance plan.

Regular maintenance and inspection of fire sprinkler systems are crucial to ensure their proper function in the event of a fire emergency.

According to NFPA 13 - 2022 edition (28.5.2.1.1), Branch lines shall not exceed eight sprinklers on either side of a cross main and shall be sized in accordance with light and ordinary hazard occupancies.

Where more than eight sprinklers on a branch line are necessary, lines shall be permitted to be increased to nine sprinklers by making the two end lengths 1 in. and 11∕4 in. , respectively, and the sizes thereafter standard.

Ten sprinklers shall be permitted to be placed on a branch line, making the two end lengths 1 in. and 11∕4 in., respectively, and feeding the tenth sprinkler by a 21∕2 in. pipe.

The distance between sprinkler deflector and the ceiling shall be (1 in) minimum and (12 in) maximum throughout the area of coverage of the sprinkler.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to check your fire sprinkler system effectively.

1.         Check Water Supply

Verify that the water supply to the fire sprinkler system is turned on and that the main control valve is fully open.

Monitor the water pressure gauge to ensure that it indicates adequate pressure within the system.

Inspect any water storage tanks, fire pumps, or pressure-reducing valves for proper operation.

2.         Conduct Flow Tests

Perform flow tests on selected sprinkler heads to ensure they activate and discharge water as intended.

Use a flow test valve or flow meter to measure the flow rate from individual sprinkler heads.

Compare the observed flow rates with the system's design specifications to identify any deviations or irregularities.

3.         Visual Inspection

Start by visually inspecting all components of the fire sprinkler system, including sprinkler heads, pipes, fittings, valves, and alarm devices.

Look for signs of damage, corrosion, leaks, or obstruction that may affect the system's performance.

Ensure that there are no obstructions blocking the sprinkler heads and that they are free from dust or debris.

4.         Test Alarm Systems:

Test the functionality of alarm devices, including water flow alarms, pressure switches, and supervisory signal devices.

Activate the alarm system manually or simulate a flow condition to trigger alarms and verify their proper operation.

Ensure that alarm signals are transmitted to the building's fire alarm panel or monitoring service as required.

5.         Inspect Control Valves:

Check all control valves, including main control valves, zone control valves, and test valves, for proper positioning and operation.

Exercise control valves periodically to prevent them from seizing or becoming stuck due to lack of use.

Verify that valve tamper switches or supervisory switches are functioning correctly.

6.         Document Findings:

Maintain detailed records of all inspection and testing activities performed on the fire sprinkler system.

Document any deficiencies, repairs, or corrective actions taken during the inspection process.

Keep inspection records readily accessible for review by building owners, fire officials, or insurance representatives.

How to Check a Fire Sprinkler System

1.   Review System Documentation:

• Start by reviewing the system documentation, including the original design drawings, hydraulic calculations, and maintenance records. Understanding the system layout and components will help guide the inspection process.

2.  Inspect Sprinkler Heads:

• Check each sprinkler head for proper orientation, alignment, and clearance. Ensure that there are no obstructions, such as storage shelves or decorations, blocking the spray pattern.
• Look for signs of physical damage, corrosion, or paint buildup on the sprinkler heads, which can affect their operation.

3.  Examine Piping and Fittings:

• Inspect all piping and fittings for leaks, corrosion, or signs of deterioration. Pay close attention to areas where pipes pass through walls, ceilings, or floors, as these are common locations for leaks to develop.
• Verify that pipe hangers and supports are secure and properly spaced to prevent sagging or misalignment.

4.  Check Valves and Water Flow Devices:

• Test all control valves, including main control valves, zone control valves, and alarm valves, to ensure they open and close properly.
• Verify that water flow devices, such as water flow switches or meters, are functioning correctly by simulating a flow condition and observing the response.

5.  Test Alarm Systems:

• Activate the fire alarm system to ensure that it triggers audible and visual alarms throughout the building.
• Test supervisory signal devices, such as tamper switches and low air pressure switches, to ensure they transmit alarm signals to the monitoring station.

6.  Verify Water Supply:

• Check the status of the water supply, including the availability of water sources such as municipal water mains, water storage tanks, or fire pumps.
• Monitor water pressure and flow rates to ensure they meet the system's design requirements and local fire code regulations.

7.  Perform Flow Tests:

• Conduct flow tests on selected sprinkler heads to verify that they activate and discharge water at the expected flow rates.
• Use calibrated flow meters or flow test kits to measure and record the flow rates from individual sprinkler heads.

8.  Review System Labels and Signage:

• Ensure that all system components are properly labeled and identified, including control valves, alarm devices, and sprinkler zones.
• Check for missing or illegible signage and replace as necessary to facilitate quick identification in an emergency.

9.  Document Findings and Recommendations:

• Document all inspection findings, including any deficiencies or areas requiring corrective action.
• Provide recommendations for repairs or upgrades based on industry best practices, code requirements, and the system's current condition.

10.              Schedule Regular Maintenance:

• Establish a schedule for regular maintenance and testing of the fire sprinkler system, in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure that maintenance activities are performed by qualified technicians trained in fire protection systems and equipment.

Regular checks and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems are essential to ensure their reliability and effectiveness in protecting life and property from fire hazards. By following these steps and conducting thorough inspections, building owners and facility managers can identify potential issues early and take proactive measures to keep their fire sprinkler systems in optimal condition.

The SPRINKLER FIRE SAFTEY AWARENESS AND WELFARE FOUNDATION was founded in 2022 at India by a group of eminent Security Safety & Automation professionals. Anyone can contacts them to provide training or consulting about Fire safety.

FIRE ERUPTS IN INDIA WHERE IS LACKING

 FIRE ERUPTS IN INDIA WHERE IS LACKING

Over the past year, there have been deadly fires in various type of buildings, according to the latest Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India (ADSI) Report, released by the National Crimes Records Bureau (NCRB), as many as 7,435 people were killed in over 7,500 fire accidents in 2022.

As many as 101 people died in a total of 106 incidents of electrical short circuits across Uttar Pradesh in the year 2022, according to the latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). This included a total of 83 men and 18 women while five people were injured in similar incidents including four men and a woman. Women are more safer in all aspect in this India.

Leading Cause:

Electrical faults are cited as the leading cause of fires but State governments are widely criticised for being lax with building safety laws and for failing to equip public buildings with modern technology.

Hospital ICUs (intensive care units) are a great fire risk because they are oxygen-suffused, and need to meet high standards.

Provisions in India Related to Fire Safety:

Constitutional Provision:

The Fire Services is a State subject and has been included as a Municipal function in the XII-th Schedule of the Constitution of India under Article 243 (W).

The National Building Code (NBC) of India, 2016:

Part 4 of the NBC is titled 'Fire and Life Safety'.

NBC, published by the Bureau of Indian Standards, is a “recommendatory document”, and States have been asked to incorporate it into their local building bylaws, making the recommendations a mandatory requirement.

All existing and new buildings are classified by nature of use, such as residential, educational, institutional, assembly (like cinemas and auditoria), business, mercantile, industrial, storage and hazardous.

The code broadly covers the following areas:

Fire Prevention: This covers aspects of fire prevention pertaining to the design and construction of buildings. It also describes the various types of buildings materials and their fire rating.

Life Safety: This covers life safety provisions in the event of fire and similar emergencies, also addressing construction and occupancy features that are necessary to minimise danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic.

The Model Building Bye Laws, 2016:

The Ministry of Urban Development has devised a circular called “Model Building By Laws 2016” which states the regulatory mechanism and engineering parameters to keep in mind before starting any construction project in India.

Point-specific responsibility for all fire-related clearance rests with the Chief Fire Officer.

The concerned Development Authority shall refer the building plans to the Chief Fire Officer for obtaining clearance in respect of buildings.

Guidelines by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):

It has also stipulated requirements for fire safety in public buildings, including hospitals, which incorporate elements of the NBC, besides design guidelines on maintaining minimum open safety space, protected exit mechanisms, dedicated staircases, and crucial drills to carry out evacuations.

The Central Government has also circulated ‘Model Bill on Maintenance of Fire & Emergency Services 2019'.

Although in December 2020, the Supreme Court directed all States to carry out fire safety audits of dedicated Covid-19 hospitals, it has become evident that State forces lack the manpower to inspect and ensure compliance with safety codes, including the NBC, where it is mandatory.

Therefore one option is to make heavy fire liability insurance compulsory for all public buildings, which would offer protection to occupants and visitors and bring about external inspection of safety.

Still incident happens. In the month of May 2024, three trajik incident happened in various city of India.

1. Rajkot Gaming Zone Fire (29 Dead including 09 children)

- Possible Causes: Inadequate fire exits, Welding time selection faults.

Gujarat High Court has called this a “man made disaster” taking suo motu cognisance.

2. Dombivli Chemical Factory Blast (08 Killed, 60 Injured In Explosion)

- Possible Causes: Handling and storage of hazardous materials.

3. Neonatal hospital in Vivek Vihar, Delhi Child/Infant Care Hospital Fire (07 newborns died and 05 were injured)

- Possible Causes: Non-functional fire detection and suppression systems. Careless attitude of owners & authorities

Apart from Provisions in India related to Fire Safety public awareness is play very important role to reduces the fire incident. Fires are caused by human actions. People being aware of their responsibilities regarding fire safety is therefore of the utmost importance. You might be knowing Safety starts from Home or residential place. The role of education in fire safety in the residential environment is, thus, extremely important because, in the end, people make the difference. Technical fire safety is, of course, very important but it is people who have to safely use the equipment and products, who have to close fire doors, and who have to respond to a smoke detector in case of a fire breaking out, etc. The social dimension of fire safety is therefore not to be underestimated.

Fire hazards in the any occupancy environment cause deaths, (disabling) injuries and hospital visits that could have been avoided through behavioural and environmental modifications. Unfortunately, there is a lack of awareness about household safety practices and procedures. Many adults are not aware of how to minimise the fire risk in their leaving area, something which is reason enough to raise the awareness about occupancy safety hazards and to teach people fire safety techniques to prevent fires from breaking out. It is also crucial that people know how to react effectively in the stressful situation whenever a fire occurs, something which is essential for their survival.

Both water and electricity are essential to our lives. Conserving both leads to conservation of resources that we are rapidly running out of and that are non-renewable. Fire safety is same essential in a home/ building / workplace / commercial complex, loss of precious lives and damage to property & materials can be avoided by, Designing fire safe structures in line with mandatory safety regulations and relevant standards. Fire safety awareness training plays a crucial role in preparing individuals to prevent, respond to, and mitigate fire incidents effectively. It also equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to handle fire emergencies. We need to increase public awareness through conduct regular workshops/road show and training sessions to educate local people about fire hazards, prevention, and response.

Another point, person in post of Fire Officer or safety officer having poor knowledge about Fire Fighting & Detection system. They Control Vendor in wrong way during PM service or on call service, Like vendor don’t have any knowledge. They also not interested to get knowledge.

Guide to Smoke Control Dampers & Fire Dampers

 Guide to Smoke Control Dampers & Fire Dampers

In an emergency situation a fire can spread via a ventilation ductwork. Therefore it is essential that the ventilation ductwork is equipped with high-quality and robust fire dampers that also prevent smoke from spreading and therefore enable safety for escape routes.

একটি HVAC ড্যাম্পার হল একটি ছোট ভালভ বা প্লেট যা একটি বিল্ডিংয়ের গরম, বায়ুচলাচল এবং এয়ার কন্ডিশনার (HVAC) সিস্টেমের ভিতরে বায়ুপ্রবাহকে নিয়ন্ত্রণ করে। ড্যাম্পার বিভিন্ন ডিগ্রী খোলা বা বন্ধ করে কাজ করে যাতে কাঠামোর মধ্যে বিভিন্ন কক্ষ বা অঞ্চলের মাধ্যমে বাতাসের প্রবাহ নিয়ন্ত্রণ করা যায় ।

ইন্ডাস্ট্রিয়াল ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারগুলি শিল্প বায়ু সিস্টেমের একটি গুরুত্বপূর্ণ উপাদান। যখন তাপমাত্রায় তীব্র বৃদ্ধি সনাক্ত করা হয় তখন তারা আগুনের বাধার এক প্রান্ত থেকে অন্য প্রান্তে আগুনের বিস্তার রোধ করে।

ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার তিন প্রকার । ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার সাধারণত কয়েকটি ভিন্ন শৈলীতে আসে; একটি গতিশীল ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার, একটি স্ট্যাটিক ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার এবং একটি স্মোক ড্যাম্পার ।

Robust compartmentation and smoke control are critical in containing fire and protecting a building’s occupants and contents. The consequences of loss of compartment integrity has been tragically implicated most recently in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry: Phase 1 Report that, in the analysis of the expert evidence, suggests a number of factors will have contributed to the loss of effective compartmentation.

আপনি কি কল্পনা করতে পারেন যে বাড়িতে বা অফিসে ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার ইনস্টল করা নেই তার কী হবে? ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারগুলি আগুনের ঘটনায় আপনার বাড়ি বা অফিসকে বড় অগ্নিকাণ্ড এবং ধোঁয়ার ক্ষতি থেকে রক্ষা করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে। তারা চেষ্টা করে এবং সর্বনিম্ন ক্ষতি বজায় রাখে। তারা অগ্নিনির্বাপকদের একটি বিল্ডিংয়ে যাওয়ার সুযোগ দেয় এবং ব্যক্তিদের নিরাপদে বাড়ি বা অফিস থেকে বের হতে সাহায্য করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে। আপনি যখন কোনও বিল্ডিংয়ে ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার ইনস্টল করছেন তখন সর্বশেষ বিল্ডিং কোডগুলি পড়া খুবই গুরুত্বপূর্ণ৷ এগুলি বিল্ডিং এবং ব্যক্তিদের সুরক্ষিত রাখতে সাহায্য করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে এবং সঠিকভাবে ইনস্টল করা হলেই তা করতে পারে৷

Oral evidence indicated that it was unclear whether smoke entering some of the lobbies through the dampers in the smoke control system was as a result of the fact that the system was designed to deal with a fire on only one floor, or whether there were non-compliances in the system which led to that smoke spread. The Phase 1 Report found no conclusive proof that there was an issue with fire and smoke dampers.

The control of smoke and containment of fire in the ventilation ductwork in any building are just two of the essential requirements for fire safety. Fire and smoke control systems must be designed, installed and maintained as part of a methodical, holistic and ongoing process. There are several relevant standards and guidelines – some of which have seen very recent updates – that, if properly considered, enable designers and operators to deliver safer systems.

Referring to the 2019 CIBSE Guide E Fire safety engineering, for compartmentation to be effective, the enclosing boundaries – such as walls, ceilings and floors – must be able to resist the spread of fire. In terms of dampers, this requires that ducts penetrating fire-resisting boundary elements are provided with fire dampers (or that the ducts are also fire resisting), and that the stability of the structure supporting the fire-resisting boundary (and damper) must be maintained for the required period. Spaces that connect compartments – known as ‘protected shafts’ – such as stairways and service shafts, also need to be protected to restrict fire spread between the compartments. So, where ducted ventilation services could compromise the integrity of that compartmentation, fire dampers and smoke dampers can provide a controllable solution.

The principal testing standard is BS EN 1366 Fire resistance tests for service installations. BS EN 1366 consists of several parts for different elements of a HVAC system – Part 2 deals with fire dampers and Part 10 with smoke control dampers.

Fire dampers

উত্তাপ, বায়ুচলাচল এবং শীতাতপনিয়ন্ত্রণ ব্যবস্থা এবং অন্যান্য উপাদান যা বিল্ডিং জুড়ে বাতাসের চলাচলে সহায়তা করে তা বিল্ডিংগুলির দৈনন্দিন কাজের জন্য প্রয়োজনীয় যাতে সঠিকভাবে তাপ, শীতল এবং (পুনরায়) বায়ু বিতরণ করা যায়। এয়ার কন্ডিশনিং এবং বায়ুচলাচল ব্যবস্থায় নালী এবং প্লেনাম দ্বারা বিতরণ করা হয় এবং সিস্টেমটি বিল্ডিংয়ের মধ্যে যেখানে প্রয়োজন সেখানে পৌঁছানোর জন্য, ধোঁয়া স্থানান্তর থেকে সুরক্ষিত অগ্নি-প্রতিরোধ রেটযুক্ত সমাবেশ বা সমাবেশগুলির প্রয়োজন হতে পারে। ফায়ার ডোর যেমন ফায়ার রেজিস্ট্যান্স রেটেড কনস্ট্রাকশনে খোলা দরজাগুলিকে রক্ষা করে, ড্যাম্পারগুলি সেই খোলাগুলিকেও রক্ষা করে যেখানে নালীগুলি ফায়ার রেটেড অ্যাসেম্বলিগুলির মধ্যে দিয়ে যায় বা শেষ হয় যাতে সমাবেশের অখণ্ডতা বজায় রাখা যায় এবং আগুন এবং ধোঁয়াকে অন্যান্য এলাকায় ছড়িয়ে দেওয়া এবং দূষিত করা থেকে রোধ করা যায়। বিল্ডিং যা অন্যথায় প্রভাবিত হতে পারে না।

অগ্নিকাণ্ডের সময়, বায়ু বিতরণ ব্যবস্থা প্রাণঘাতী ধোঁয়া এবং দহনের পণ্যগুলি শ্বাস-প্রশ্বাসযোগ্য বাতাসের পরিবর্তে পরিবহন করতে পারে। যদি সঠিক নকশা এবং ইনস্টলেশন সতর্কতা অবলম্বন না করা হয়, ধোঁয়া, অগ্নি গ্যাস, তাপ, এমনকি শিখা নালী সিস্টেম দ্বারা পরিবেশিত এলাকায় ছড়িয়ে যেতে পারে। অনুপযুক্ত প্লেনাম অবস্থান, সিস্টেমে সনাক্তকরণ সরঞ্জামের অভাব এবং উপযুক্ত দেয়াল, সিলিং বা পার্টিশনে প্রয়োজনীয় আগুন এবং ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পারের অভাব দুঃখজনক পরিস্থিতির দিকে নিয়ে যেতে পারে।

ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারগুলি শ্যাফ্ট দেয়াল, ফায়ার বাধা (যেমন একটি দখল পৃথকীকরণ প্রাচীর, অনুভূমিক প্রস্থান দেয়াল, করিডোরের দেয়াল, করিডোরের সিলিং, মেঝে-সিলিং অ্যাসেম্বলি) এবং অন্যান্য অগ্নি প্রতিরোধের – হিসাবে রেট করা হয়। একটি বিল্ডিং বা জীবন নিরাপত্তা কোড এবং অন্যান্য প্রযোজ্য মান দ্বারা প্রয়োজনীয় হিসাবে। মারাত্মক আগুনের সংস্পর্শে, একটি নালী শেষ পর্যন্ত ভেঙে পড়তে পারে বা উল্লেখযোগ্যভাবে বিকৃত হতে পারে, আগুনের বাধার মধ্যে একটি খোলার সৃষ্টি করে। ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারগুলি এই জাতীয় অনুপ্রবেশ এবং খোলার সুরক্ষার একটি পদ্ধতি সরবরাহ করে।

একটি ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে এবং তাপ শনাক্ত করার পর স্বয়ংক্রিয়ভাবে বন্ধ হয়ে যাওয়ার জন্য (যেমন একটি ফুসিবল লিঙ্ক বা হিট ডিটেক্টর) এবং বায়ুপ্রবাহকে বাধাগ্রস্ত করার জন্য এবং শিখা প্রবেশকে সীমাবদ্ধ করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে। ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারগুলি যে সিস্টেমে ইনস্টল করা হয়েছে তার সেই অংশের সর্বাধিক গণনাকৃত বায়ুপ্রবাহের বিপরীতে বন্ধ করতে হবে। যেগুলি বায়ুপ্রবাহের অধীনে বন্ধ করার উদ্দেশ্যে করা হয় সেগুলিকে ডায়নামিক সিস্টেমে ব্যবহারের জন্য লেবেল করা হয় (একটি গতিশীল সিস্টেম হল একটি এইচভিএসি সিস্টেম যা আগুনের ইঙ্গিতের সাথে সিস্টেমের মধ্যে বায়ু চলাচল বজায় রাখার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে); যেগুলি বায়ুপ্রবাহ বন্ধ হওয়ার পরে স্বয়ংক্রিয়ভাবে ফ্যান বন্ধ করে বা আগুনের ঘটনা ঘটলে বায়ুপ্রবাহ বন্ধ করার উদ্দেশ্যে সেগুলিকে স্ট্যাটিক সিস্টেমে ব্যবহারের জন্য লেবেল করা হয় (একটি স্ট্যাটিক সিস্টেম হল একটি HVAC সিস্টেম যা সিস্টেমের মধ্যে বায়ু চলাচল বন্ধ করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে আগুনের ইঙ্গিত)। ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার প্রতি ঘণ্টায় ফায়ার রেটিং দিয়ে দেওয়া হয়। 

A fire damper’s primary function is to maintain compartmentation and prevent, or impede, the spread of fire through the ventilation ductwork. Fire dampers are designed to allow air to flow through in normal operation but then shut suddenly with a thermal release mechanism at the outbreak of a fire, and are designed to failsafe close. The release mechanism is a thermally actuated device designed to respond to a rise in temperature of the surrounding area and release the fire damper blades at a predetermined temperature. It can interface with mechanical, electrical, electronic or pneumatically operated mechanisms, which are positioned integrally or remotely from the device.

Fire dampers for use in building ventilation ducts should be CE marked to BS EN 15650:2010 Ventilation for buildings – Fire dampers (this standard is currently being revised); as tested to BS EN 1366-2 Fire resistance tests for service installations – Fire dampers (this standard excludes dampers in suspended ceilings and non-mechanical dampers); and classified to BS EN 13501-3 Fire classification of construction products and building elements. Part 3 (this standard is currently being revised).

Fire dampers will resist the progress of the fire in the closed position and have a certified maximum leakage characteristic. The standard BS EN 1366-2 defines the requirements for testing dampers, with a requirement to close within two minutes of the test start. After closure, a 300Pa pressure differential is applied to the damper, and the damper leakage (corrected to 20°C) is recorded during the rest of the test.

The largest size of damper on the market must be fire tested. Pass and fail criteria are included in the standard in terms of:

·        Integrity, E – the ability to withstand fire when subjected to a furnace-mounted fire resistance test

·        Leakage, S – the ability of the damper to resist the passage of gases or smoke both at ambient temperature and at a set profile of test fire temperatures

·        Insulation, I – which assesses the ability of a damper to withstand fire exposure without the transmission of fire as a result of significant transfer of heat. The rating is not required by law for dampers in the UK.

It was common for the UK industry to refer to ‘E’ classified products as ‘fire dampers’ and ‘ES’ classified products as ‘fire and smoke dampers’.

Smoke dampers

স্মোক ড্যাম্পারের প্রাথমিক কাজ হল গতিশীল বায়ু বিতরণ ব্যবস্থায় ধোঁয়ার চলাচল নিয়ন্ত্রণ করা এবং তারা নালীর মধ্যে বা প্রাচীর খোলার মাধ্যমে ধোঁয়া স্থানান্তরের সম্ভাবনা কমিয়ে দেয়। এগুলি বিল্ডিং বা জীবন সুরক্ষা কোডের প্রয়োজন অনুসারে ধোঁয়া ছড়ানো প্রতিরোধ করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা ধোঁয়া বাধা, খাদ দেয়াল, অনুভূমিক প্রস্থান দেয়াল, করিডোরের দেয়াল, করিডোর সিলিং এবং অন্যান্য বাধাগুলির মধ্য দিয়ে যাওয়া নালীতে বা বায়ু আউটলেট খোলার সমাপ্তিতে ইনস্টল করা হয়। এবং অন্যান্য প্রযোজ্য মান। ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পারগুলি ধোঁয়া সনাক্তকরণে স্বয়ংক্রিয়ভাবে কাজ করে এবং অবশ্যই কাজ করে যাতে নালীর মধ্য দিয়ে ধোঁয়া চলাচল বন্ধ থাকে। তাদের সক্রিয়করণ এলাকা ডিটেক্টর দ্বারা হতে পারে যা সম্পর্কিত স্মোক কম্পার্টমেন্টে ইনস্টল করা হয় বা বায়ু নালী সিস্টেমে ইনস্টল করা ডিটেক্টর দ্বারা। স্মোক ড্যাম্পারগুলি ফুটো এবং তাপমাত্রার রেটিং সহ সরবরাহ করা হয়।

 

একটি কম্বিনেশন ফায়ার/স্মোক ড্যাম্পার ব্যবহার করা হয় যখন একটি বাধাকে আগুন প্রতিরোধের জন্য রেট করা হয় এবং সেইসাথে ধোঁয়া স্থানান্তর সীমাবদ্ধ করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয় এবং এটি ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার এবং স্মোক ড্যাম্পার উভয়ের প্রয়োজনীয়তা পূরণ করবে।

The most significant risk for occupants in fires is smoke inhalation. So, when considering smoke and heat exhaust ventilation, an uninterrupted smoke extract path needs to be maintained between the area where heat and smoke is being generated and the outside of the building – this is facilitated through controllable smoke control dampers (often referred to as ‘smoke dampers’).

As explained in BS EN 1366-10:2011 Smoke and heat control systems – Smoke control dampers: ‘Smoke control dampers at the fire and along the path have to be open and remain open. Smoke control dampers at branches, or on the surface of the duct, along the path need to be closed and remain closed. In fact, if the duct crosses a compartment boundary it becomes part of the fire compartment in which the fire started.’ The function of a smoke control damper is to control the flow of smoke and hot gases into, from or within a duct and, if solely a smoke control damper, they do not have to meet the same stringent temperature restrictions as fire dampers.

Their simplest application is where they are activated by smoke detectors and close upon the detection of smoke or fire to prevent circulation through the duct. They are also increasingly used as part of an active smoke control system to selectively provide a route to remove smoke from a building. They can be actuated, opened and closed in less than 60 seconds, by external control signals and through a smoke control system. There is no particular failsafe position for smoke dampers.

Smoke control dampers (including fire-resisting types as discussed below) should be CE marked to BS EN 12101-8:2011 Smoke and heat control systems. Smoke control dampers; tested to BS EN 1366-10 Fire resistance tests for service installations. Smoke control dampers; and classified to BS EN 13501-4:2016 Fire classification of construction products and building elements.

Smoke control dampers for ducts are categorised as single-compartment smoke control dampers for use in single-compartment areas, and multi-compartment smoke control dampers for use in multi-compartment areas. Dampers for usage in multiple-compartment applications can also be used as single-compartment dampers. Smoke control dampers, unlike fire dampers, will not have a fusible link and are controllable.

A typical smoke control system with automatic activation and with manual override requires a damper that operates automatically on receipt of a smoke or fire alarm, without any manual action/intervention. In this application, once initiated, the system will allow the damper position to be changed by external input or firefighter’s override. Less common are smoke control systems that rely on manual intervention to be put into operation by people on detection of smoke or fire (for example, by pressing a button), leading to a sequence of automatic actions in the operation of the smoke control system. Such systems will still allow the smoke control damper position to be changed by external input/firefighter’s override.

There have been updates in 2019 to guidance that covers building fire protection, both in the Scotland Building Standards Technical Handbook, Part 2 and in the England and Wales Building Regulations Approved Document Part B. The revised guidance on fire dampers and ventilation systems in Approved Documents B1 and B2, which applies in England, has been consolidated into a single section (in both parts). The updated guidance has moved the guidance for the design of blocks of flats from B2 (Buildings other than dwellings) to B1 (Dwellings). Both sections illustrate guidance for the position of where fire and smoke dampers should be positioned – sometimes in conjunction with ductwork enclosed in a fire-resisting construction. Part B is clear that fire and smoke dampers should automatically operate when smoke is detected by a smoke detector or suitable fire-detection system. This might be through a dedicated damper control panel or building BMS to control the dampers that also provides remote testing and control, in addition to (application depending) allowing firefighter’s override of the dampers.

In common with other guidelines and regulations, AD Parts B1 and B2 indicate that the dampers should be securely fixed within the thickness of the fire-separating elements – this could be, for example, a compartment wall, compartment floor, cavity barrier or construction that encloses a protected escape route or a place of special fire hazard. The damper should be fixed so that expansion of the ductwork will not push the fire damper through the structure. Appropriate access to the fire damper and its actuating mechanism should be provided for inspection, testing and maintenance. Where ducts pass through fire separating elements between multiple dwellings, or where there is a sleeping risk, AD Parts B1 and B2 indicate dampers should normally be actuated by both smoke detectors and thermally actuated devices.

Smoke detectors should be sited so as to prevent the spread of smoke as early as practicable by activating the fire and smoke dampers. AD Parts B1 and B2 notes examples of ‘automatic release mechanisms’ that would automatically trigger that activation:

·        Smoke being detected by an automatic device of a suitable nature and quality in a suitable location

·        A hand-operated switch, fitted in a suitable position, being operated

·        The electricity supply to the device, apparatus or switch failing

·        The fire alarm system.

AD Parts B1 and B2 indicates more detailed information on fire dampers and/or fire and smoke dampers is given in the Association for Specialist Fire Protection’s (ASFP) Grey Book.

The rules governing which dampers open/close and how they are controlled may be developed by examining the ‘cause and effect’. So, the building is divided into zones and the zones are normally mapped – for example, into a spreadsheet – and that map is used by to develop a coherent and logical fire and smoke control strategy to maximise the preservation of life.

Dedicated damper control panels are normally capable of managing complex ‘cause and effect’ scenarios. Typically, the control can be integrated into the wider BMS that will allow scheduled damper testing and status alerts. Thermal protection is essential for the main control panel, interfacing electronics, network cabling, damper control panel and the damper itself.

To develop the most effective deployment of dampers for fire and smoke control in ventilation systems, it is important to consider risks holistically and develop, and consider, the array of ‘cause and effect’ as early as possible in the design process. That information will drive specification, installation and operation of dampers, controls and actuators. For operational success, the specification should be critically assessed so that the systems maintain appropriate simplicity, ensuring that they not only protect life and property but also reduce the responsibility on firefighters of having to operate numerous override controls.

As with many of the specialist areas in building services, established manufacturers can provide experienced advice on the selection of appropriate equipment to meet the current, and changing, standards.

আগুন এবং ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পার ইনস্টলেশন 

প্রথম এবং সর্বাগ্রে, ড্যাম্পারগুলি অবশ্যই প্রস্তুতকারকের ইনস্টলেশন নির্দেশাবলী অনুসারে এবং তাদের তালিকা অনুসারে ইনস্টল করা উচিত। নতুন ইনস্টলেশনের জন্য, সাইটে ইনস্টলেশন নির্দেশাবলী বজায় রাখা একটি ড্যাম্পার সঠিকভাবে ইনস্টল করা হয়েছে তা যাচাই করতে সাহায্য করতে পারে। পরিদর্শন, পরীক্ষা এবং রক্ষণাবেক্ষণের জন্য আগুন এবং ধোঁয়া উভয় ড্যাম্পারের অ্যাক্সেস প্রয়োজন। নতুন নির্মাণে ধোঁয়া এবং সংমিশ্রণ আগুন এবং ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পারগুলিকে অবশ্যই ড্যাম্পার এবং এর অপারেটিং অংশগুলির পরিদর্শন এবং রক্ষণাবেক্ষণের অনুমতি দেওয়ার জন্য যথেষ্ট পরিমাণে অ্যাক্সেসের অনুমোদিত উপায় সরবরাহ করতে হবে। অ্যাক্সেস যেখানে এটি অবস্থিত সেখানে সমাবেশের অখণ্ডতা, ধারাবাহিকতা বা রেটিংকে প্রভাবিত করতে পারে না এবং যান্ত্রিক কোডের যেকোনো অ্যাক্সেসের প্রয়োজনীয়তাও মেনে চলতে হবে। অ্যাক্সেস পয়েন্টগুলিকে অবশ্যই স্থায়ী শনাক্তকরণ প্রদান করতে হবে যাতে ড্যাম্পারের ধরন নির্দেশ করে (ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার, স্মোক ড্যাম্পার, ফায়ার/স্মোক ড্যাম্পার)। কিছু পরিস্থিতিতে, যেখানে নতুন নির্মাণে স্থানের সীমাবদ্ধতা বা শারীরিক প্রতিবন্ধকতা পর্যায়ক্রমিক পরিদর্শন এবং পরীক্ষার জন্য একটি ড্যাম্পারের অ্যাক্সেসকে সীমাবদ্ধ করে, ড্যাম্পারকে একটি একক- বা বহু-ব্লেড-টাইপ ড্যাম্পার হতে হবে এবং দূরবর্তী পরিদর্শনের প্রয়োজনীয়তাগুলি মেনে চলতে হবে (এতে পাওয়া গেছে NFPA 80 বা NFPA 105।)

একটি ড্যাম্পার ইনস্টল করার পরে, একটি অপারেশনাল পরীক্ষা অনেকটাই সম্পন্ন হবে। এই পরীক্ষাটি নিশ্চিত করে যে ড্যাম্পারটি বায়ু বিতরণ ব্যবস্থার মধ্যে সঠিকভাবে ইনস্টল করা হয়েছে, সম্পূর্ণরূপে কার্যকরী, কোনও বাধা ছাড়াই সম্পূর্ণরূপে বন্ধ হয়ে যায় এবং এর সমাবেশের অংশ হিসাবে সমস্ত সঠিক উপাদান এবং ডিভাইস রয়েছে। অপারেশনাল পরীক্ষা স্বাভাবিক HVAC বায়ুপ্রবাহ এবং অ-এয়ারফ্লো অবস্থার অধীনে পরিচালিত হতে পারে। উভয় পরীক্ষার অবস্থার অধীনে ড্যাম্পার সম্পূর্ণরূপে বন্ধ হবে।

আগুন এবং ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পার উভয়ই গুরুত্বপূর্ণ বিল্ডিং এবং জীবন সুরক্ষা সরঞ্জাম যা আগুনের প্রভাব থেকে মানুষ এবং বিল্ডিংকে রক্ষা করে। এটি গুরুত্বপূর্ণ যে তারা ইনস্টল করা আছে, এবং অ্যাক্সেসযোগ্য, যেখানে প্রয়োজন হয় বিল্ডিং জুড়ে এবং সঠিকভাবে ইনস্টল করা হয় যাতে আগুনের পরিস্থিতিতে যখন প্রয়োজন হয় তখন তারা কাজ করে। এগুলি ছাড়া, আগুন এবং ধোঁয়া পুরো বিল্ডিং জুড়ে স্থানগুলিতে ভ্রমণ করতে পারে অন্যথায় আগুনের দ্বারা স্পর্শ করা যায় না।

একাধিক কোড এবং মান আগুন এবং ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পার ইনস্টলেশনের জন্য প্রযোজ্য। প্রতিটি নথির ঠিকানা কী তা জানা একটি নিরাপদ এবং সফল ড্যাম্পার ইনস্টলেশনের জন্য বিধানগুলি ম্যাপ করতে সাহায্য করতে পারে। এখানে দেওয়া সারাংশের বাইরে আরও বিশদ বিবরণের জন্য এই নথিগুলি পর্যালোচনা করার পরামর্শ দেওয়া হচ্ছে। 

• NFPA 101®,  লাইফ সেফটি কোড®  ম্যান্ডেট যেখানে স্মোক ড্যাম্পারগুলির পাশাপাশি তাদের রেটিং, অ্যাক্সেস এবং সনাক্তকরণের প্রয়োজনীয়তা এবং সক্রিয়করণের প্রয়োজনীয়তাগুলি প্রয়োজন৷ ধোঁয়া পার্টিশনে এয়ার-ট্রান্সফার ওপেনিং (দুটি সংলগ্ন স্থানের মধ্যে পরিবেশগত বায়ু চলাচলের অনুমতি দেওয়ার জন্য ডিজাইন করা একটি খোলা) এবং ধোঁয়া বাধার মধ্যে বায়ু স্থানান্তর খোলা এবং নালী প্রবেশের ক্ষেত্রে ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পার প্রয়োজন। যেখানে একটি ধোঁয়া বাধা একটি অগ্নি বাধা হিসাবে নির্মিত হয়, একটি সংমিশ্রণ আগুন/ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পার ব্যবহার করা আবশ্যক। এমন একাধিক ছাড় রয়েছে যেখানে ধোঁয়া বাধার ক্ষেত্রে ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পারের প্রয়োজন নাও হতে পারে যেমন যেখানে নালী বা বায়ু-স্থানান্তর খোলা একটি প্রকৌশলী ধোঁয়া নিয়ন্ত্রণ ব্যবস্থার অংশ এবং সেই ধোঁয়া ড্যাম্পার একটি ধোঁয়া নিয়ন্ত্রণ ব্যবস্থার ক্রিয়াকলাপে হস্তক্ষেপ করবে বা যেখানে নালীগুলি মেঝেতে প্রবেশ করে যা ধোঁয়া বাধা হিসাবে কাজ করে।
• NFPA 5000®,  বিল্ডিং কনস্ট্রাকশন এবং সেফটি কোড®  ম্যান্ডেট যেখানে ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার প্রয়োজন এবং তাদের প্রয়োজনীয় রেটিং এবং সেইসাথে ফায়ার এবং স্মোক ড্যাম্পারের অ্যাক্সেস এবং সনাক্তকরণের প্রয়োজনীয়তা। নিম্নলিখিত স্থানে ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার প্রয়োজন: 
• 2 বা ততোধিক ঘন্টার অগ্নি প্রতিরোধের রেটিং সহ নালী এবং বায়ু-স্থানান্তর খোলা দেয়াল বা পার্টিশনগুলির অনুপ্রবেশকারী,
• 1 বা তার বেশি ঘন্টার অগ্নি প্রতিরোধের রেটিং সহ শ্যাফ্টের দেয়ালে প্রবেশকারী নালী এবং বায়ু-স্থানান্তর খোলা,
• নালী এবং বায়ু-স্থানান্তর খোলা মেঝে ভেদ করে যেখানে সুরক্ষিত খোলার প্রয়োজন হয় যেখানে নালীটিও একটি খাদ ঘের দ্বারা সুরক্ষিত নয়,
• 30 মিনিট বা তার বেশি অগ্নি প্রতিরোধের রেটিং থাকা প্রয়োজন এমন দেয়াল বা পার্টিশনে ঘটে যাওয়া বায়ু-স্থানান্তর খোলা।  

• এনএফপিএ 90এ,  স্ট্যান্ডার্ড ফর দ্য ইন্সটলেশন অফ এয়ার-কন্ডিশনিং এবং ভেন্টিলেটিং সিস্টেমগুলি  বিল্ডিং কোড এবং জীবন সুরক্ষা কোডগুলির সাথে একত্রে কাজ করে যেখানে আগুন এবং ধোঁয়ার ড্যাম্পার প্রয়োজন সেখানে অতিরিক্ত অবস্থানগুলিকেও বাধ্যতামূলক করে৷ উপরন্তু, এটি তার অবস্থানের উপর ভিত্তি করে ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারের ন্যূনতম প্রয়োজনীয় রেটিং বাধ্যতামূলক করে। NFPA 90A এর সাথে সম্মতি NFPA 101, NFPA 5000 এবং NFPA 80 দ্বারা বাধ্যতামূলক৷ 
• NFPA 80, স্ট্যান্ডার্ড ফর ফায়ার ডোরস অ্যান্ড আদার ওপেনিং প্রোটেক্টিভস এবং NFPA 105, স্মোক ডোর অ্যাসেম্বলির জন্য স্ট্যান্ডার্ড এবং অন্যান্য ওপেনিং প্রোটেক্টিভগুলি কোথায় একটি ড্যাম্পার প্রয়োজন এবং কীভাবে এটি অ্যাক্সেস এবং সনাক্ত করতে হবে তা নির্ধারণ করার পরে প্রযোজ্য। ব্যবহারকারীদের NFPA 80 এবং NFPA 105-এ অতিরিক্ত ইনস্টলেশন বিশদ বিবরণের পাশাপাশি পরিদর্শন, পরীক্ষা এবং ড্যাম্পার রক্ষণাবেক্ষণের জন্য সমস্ত প্রয়োজনীয়তার জন্য নির্দেশিত করা হয়। NFPA 80 ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারগুলির পাশাপাশি কম্বিনেশন ফায়ার/স্মোক ড্যাম্পার এবং NFPA 105 অ্যাড্রেস স্মোক ড্যাম্পারগুলিকে কভার করে। 
• ফায়ার ড্যাম্পারগুলি UL 555, ফায়ার ড্যাম্পার অনুসারে UL দ্বারা শীতাতপ নিয়ন্ত্রিত এবং বায়ুচলাচল নালীগুলিতে ব্যবহারের জন্য পরীক্ষা করা হয় এবং তালিকাভুক্ত করা হয়  ৷ এই ড্যাম্পারগুলির মধ্যে রয়েছে একক-ব্লেড, মাল্টিব্লেড এবং ইন্টারলকিং-ব্লেডের ধরন, সবই ফিজিবল লিঙ্কের মাধ্যমে কার্যকর হয়। স্মোক ড্যাম্পারগুলির জন্য UL 555S,  স্মোক ড্যাম্পারগুলির সাথে সম্মতি প্রয়োজন ৷ কম্বিনেশন ফায়ার এবং স্মোক ড্যাম্পার UL 555 এবং UL 555S উভয়ের প্রযোজ্য প্রয়োজনীয়তা পূরণ করবে

Recommended further reading:

1.    CIBSE Guide E Fire Safety Engineering, 2019 – Provides very recently updated guidance across the whole area of fire protection in buildings.

2.    The Association for Specialist Fire Protection’s Grey Book provides extensive guidance on manufacture, specification, installation, inspection and verification of fire-resisting dampers.

3.    BESA DW145 Guide to good practice for the installation of fire and smoke dampers provides practical guidance on fire and/or smoke damper installation in ventilation ductwork systems.