SMOKE SHAFT TESTING IS GENERALLY A REQUIREMENT FOR MULTI STOREY DEVELOPMENTS AND WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU.
Automatic Opening Ventilation (AOV) in high-rise developments is a key part of the fire safety strategy. It is imperative that shafts and ducts are sufficiently airtight so that they can transport clean air and extract smoke effectively. This helps to save lives by greatly reducing the risk of smoke inhalation in the case of a fire. Smoke shaft testing of high-rise buildings is generally required to ensure that it meets national air permeability standards.
Abbey Consultants’ team of compliance engineers uses UKAS calibrated equipment, and all tests are carried out in accordance with the requirements of ATTMA TSL Issue 1, CIBSE T23:2000, BS EN 13829 and BS EN 12101-2:2006. Our engineer will begin the test by fitting a fan into an opening of the shaft generally on the mid floor. The top and bottom of the shaft are temporarily sealed along with other intended openings like extract points and ventilation grilles.
Our compliance engineer will then run a test to establish the shaft’s air pressure permeability. Most shafts are designed to have air leakage rates below 3.8m3 /hr/m2 at 50 Pa. In the event that the AOV does not meet the required levels of air permeability, our compliance engineer uses a smoke generator to try and determine specific problem areas from within the shaft. The smoke helps to identify leakage points that aren’t necessarily visible.
Before testing can take place, construction to the shaft must be complete. There are a few other requirements with which to adhere in order for testing to comply with Building Regulations:
- No temporary seals to construction (temporary seals only allowed for dampers, fans and ductwork).
- Fire-stopping/ penetrations completed
- Shaft to be free of debris
- Power available (ideally 240v)
If smoke shaft testing is required on your development, book your appointment with our friendly team on 01923 274 427 or drop us an email at info@abbey-consultants.co.uk
