The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO) states that a building’s “responsible person” (generally a building owner, manager or Facilities Manager) must ensure proper operational service and maintenance of smoke control systems. Moreover, new smoke control updates were recently introduced in the Fire Safety Regulations 2022. The Regulations came into effect on 23 January 2023 and created a significant development in the UK fire safety landscape.
It is imperative to act fast to ensure the safety of your building and its occupants. Stay up to date with our monthly Smoke Control Newsletter and read more about the latest regulatory framework changes in our blog:
Smoke control systems, whether natural or mechanical, need to be tested both weekly and monthly. The frequency of tests and what should be checked are set out within the British and European Standards relevant for smoke control systems. These are; BS 7346-8:2013, BS 9999:2017 and the applicable parts of BS EN 12101.
BS 7346-8:2013 is a guide for effectively implementing a smoke control solution from design to handover and maintenance, applicable to all system types. The code clearly outlines the key processes to be managed, assigns roles and responsibilities, and provides guidance on performance requirements and documentation. Compliance evidence is required throughout the project’s lifespan, and templates are available to support areas such as handover and performance testing.
Clause 9 of BS 7346-8:2013 focuses on maintenance and servicing in detail and should serve as a model for all companies in this field. One specific clause that deserves attention is 9.3 Non-routine maintenance. This clause mandates that a special inspection of an existing smoke control system be carried out when a new organization takes over system maintenance.
Clause 9.3.1 of BS 7346-8:2013 provides details on what a special inspection entails, including system design performance development where no suitable records exist.
As a turnkey system manufacturer and installer, we do not compromise on our ability to maintain all aspects of our systems and pride ourselves on being able to provide our customers with full turnkey support at a fair price.
If your building’s fire safety information is not available or out of date, we can carry out an assessment that you can include in your Safety Case. Should the assessment highlight any non-compliant systems, we will suggest a plan of work you can implement and include in your Building Safety Case Report.
Our smoke control testing and maintenance log sheet will assist you in proving compliance with your legal responsibilities in relation to fire safety and should be completed following the inspection, test, and maintenance of any of the items required by the legislation.
Fill out the form to download your ready to print copy.
