Smoke control systems are critical life-safety systems in many buildings, including high-rise towers and large assembly spaces. While sprinkler systems attempt to control a fire and fire alarm systems tell people to evacuate, smoke control systems are designed to keep smoke out of egress paths long enough for occupants to escape. But unlike fire alarms or sprinklers, their routine inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) requirements aren’t always obvious. That leads to a common question from engineers, facility managers, and AHJs:

 

Am I required to inspect, test, and maintain my smoke control systems?

While all new systems are required to be commissioned before they are installed, once they are installed, the requirements related to ITM are not well understood. Let’s break down what the standards and model codes require.

It is critical to understand that your fire alarm testing is not the same thing and fire alarm contractors are not testing your smoke control system.

First, its important to understand that building codes are applicable for new construction and renovations. While these requirements can, and often do, come into play when renovating buildings with existing systems, we are focusing on traditional ITM so we will not focus on that here. The two model codes that serve as the basis for most State-adopted fire codes are International Fire Code and NFPA 1: Fire Code.

1. NFPA 1 references NFPA 92: Standard for Smoke Control Systems. This is the primary standard for smoke control system inspection, testing, and maintenance. It includes specific requirements on Periodic Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance. The key points from that section are:
2. Dedicated smoke control systems must be tested at least semiannually. Most smoke control systems are dedicated or, at least, have components that are dedicated.
3. Non-dedicated systems must be tested at least annually.
4. All tests must be performed by individuals that are thoroughly knowledgeable in the operation, testing, and maintenance of the systems.  
5. Every sequence in the design criteria must be initiated and every output observed with confirmation that equipment functioned properly.
6. Results must be documented in the building’s operations and maintenance log.
7. The International Fire Code does not specifically reference NFPA 92. However, the requirements are essentially the same.

Owners and property managers should reach out to a qualified individual or firm – this work is typically led by a fire protection engineering firm – to help you understand your system and the required testing protocols.

• Don’t assume weekly operational tests alone satisfy ITM requirements. Many people believe that their fire alarm contractor is providing this test or that their pre-programmed weekly self-tests are sufficient, but NFPA 92’s periodic tests are separate and often semiannual or annual.
• Work with qualified personnel. NFPA 92 explicitly calls for testing by individuals thoroughly knowledgeable in smoke control system operation and maintenance. Jigsaw Life Safety can help!
• Eventually, the bill comes due. Postponing ITM will lead to very expensive repairs in the future. These systems sit idle most of the time and equipment fails. Eventually, an inspector will ask for a test. If your jurisdiction does not require regular report submittals, it will eventually come up during an inspection of a tenant improvement or other trigger. We have seen failing smoke control system result in permitting delays, lawsuits from tenants who can not occupy, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in unexpected repair costs.
• Document EVERYTHING. Logs, sequences, deviations, and corrective actions are essential for compliance and future inspections.

For additional information on integrated testing requirements, see our blog on NFPA 4.

Proactive inspection, testing, and maintenance ensures your smoke control systems will function when they are needed most and keeps your building aligned with code requirements.

Jigsaw’s smoke control testing group specializes in code-required third-party special inspection and semi-annual system testing. From office atriums to complicated high-rise buildings and stadiums, our engineers are ready to help you achieve and maintain a code-compliant system.

If you need help evaluating your smoke control system, developing an inspection and testing program, or preparing documentation for compliance, Jigsaw Life Safety can guide you through the process from start to finish. Call 617.351.9600 or contact us at support@jigsawlifesafety.com.