Testing & Verification
Smoke Control System Scope of Work & Commissioning
OFC 7.3
Smoke Control systems can be complicated to understand, Ignis Building Solutions specializes in making the process easy for you. Whether it is to do a current state assessment, develop a sequence of operations, commissioning a new system, or testing a smoke control system, we have you covered.
Smoke control, or a smoke management system, is a stand-alone system or integrated into the fire alarm systems of a building. It is intended to keep the exits and means of egress for occupants clear from smoke, improves visibility for firefighters and first responders, and mitigates smoke damage.
How does a smoke management system work?
Key methods utilized to contain or direct smoke include:
Compartmentation which restricts the movement of smoke, reducing leakage and keeping smoke contained.
Dilution which controls the movement of smoke and exhausts contaminated air
Pressurization which uses high pressure systems to keep smoke from migrating into specific areas
Buoyancy uses vents, that may or not may not be fan powered, to move smoke outside
Airflow which removes smoke by using fans to channel the smoke outdoors, e.g. in tunnels
Does every building have a smoke control system?
Most buildings have some type of smoke control system. If you are not familiar with yours or would like to find out more information on your system contact us.
What is the difference between a Smoke Control Audit and a Smoke Control Test?
A Smoke Control Audit provides a review of the existing smoke control equipment, maintenance, and testing requirements. It is conducted by an engineer. Ignis Building Solutions offers Smoke Control Audits performed by a professional engineer. We assist in establishing the proper procedures and identify the correct documentation for reporting purposes.
A Smoke Control Test tests that the system and its components function as intended and is separate from fire alarm testing. Smoke management systems are to be tested at least semi-annually, as determined by your smoke control plan.
A Smoke Control Test consists of:
Co-ordinating with other HVAC and system contractors
Ensuring all related systems are up-to-date and suitable for interconnectivity
All smoke control management system components are functioning
Reports to be kept on site for AHJ
A smoke management system is comprised of many parts including:
Duct smoke detector
Smoke Damper
Fire Shutters
Fire Separations
Fire Damper with fusible link
Motorized damper
Magnetic Door Holder
Air Handling Unit and Pressurization Fans
Emergency Power
Panel Smoke Control On/Off/Auto Switches
Fire Fighters Smoke Control Panel
What are the regulations regarding smoke control testing?
Part 7 of the Ontario Fire Code is dedicated to Smoke Control. In recent years, Authorities Having Jurisdiction have been turning their attention and inspections on smoke control systems.
They have reported repeated findings of smoke control testing not being complete, there being no procedures in place for inspections and tests, and components that may be functional but were not hooked up to fire alarm systems. All of which would result in a notice of violation.
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Integrated System Testing
CAN/ULC-S1001
CAN/ULC S1001 Integrated System Testing has been codified in the Building Code and is a requirement of all new construction where fire protection or life safety systems have been installed. Ignis Building Solutions have Certified ULC S1001 Integrated Testing Coordinators to ensure this important task is done properly and that all fire protection and life safety systems installed are operating correctly.
**As of January, 2020 the CAN/ULC S1001-11 standard and testing requirement became law and is now being enforced.**
The CAN/ULC S1001-11 Standard outlines the process for verifying and documenting interconnections between systems to ensure that they function as originally designed. Our team have been performing CAN/ULC S1001 Integrated Systems Testing for years. Our process is designed to support engineers, architects, building owners, contractors and Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Our UL Certified Inspectors are available to assist with every stage of the CAN/ULC-S1001 Integrated Systems Testing process. From planning, implementation, testing, and documentation.
Please note, a company is not allowed to perform verification of the fire alarm systems in accordance with CAN/ULC-S537 AND conduct integrated systems testing on the same building / premises in accordance with CAN/ULC-S1001.
Any new fire alarm integrated system replacement or system upgrade building permits older than six months must now complete Integrated Systems Testing before it is closed out. CAN/ULC S1001 addresses any gaps in compliance between the integrated systems. These systems can include:
Fire Alarm
Mass Notification
Elevators
Emergency Generators
Audio/visual and Lighting control
Sprinkler systems
Standpipe systems
Fire Pumps
Water supplies, Water supply control valves and Freeze protection
Fixed fire suppression systems (FM2000, NOVEC, CO2)
Cooking equipment fire suppression
Door Hold-Open and Latch Release Devices
Door Hold-Open and Latch Release Devices
Electro-Magnetic Locks/Access Control
Smoke-Fire Dampers
Smoke Control Systems
Air Handling Units (AHU) Shutdowns (BAS)
Hazardous Protection Monitoring (gas detection)
We are your trusted Integrated Testing Service Provider.
Third-Party Verification
CAN/ULC-S537
Third-party verifications, as required in CAN/ULC-S537, ensure the fire alarm system and the various system components are installed properly and are working correctly. Verification occurs when new fire alarm systems are put in place and/or when additions or modifications are made to existing fire alarm systems. Our team of dedicated CFAA Fire Alarm Technicians will ensure your Third-Party Verification is done properly.
Installation & Monitoring Service
CAN/ULC-S561
Ensuring the Fire Department responds quickly is extremely important in ensuring the safety of occupants and reducing the damage a fire may cause. Ignis Building Solutions can help ensure your Installation and Monitoring Services are installed and certified to CAN/ULC-S561.
