Duct Smoke Detector Testing Methods

9/23/2017

For duct smoke detector functionality testing, is there guidelines to use either aerosol spray, smoke bomb, or magnet? Which are acceptable method(s)?

Note: This is a Daily Discussion question submitted anonymously to us. Submit a Question or Discuss This Here.

2 Comments

9/22/2017 08:45:56 am

No Code requirements/guidelines. Follow the specific manufacturer's recommended test methods, which are typically a built-in test mechanism or aerosol test apparatus.

Chris D

9/22/2017 11:53:11 am

http://www.scorpion-tester.com/ has an innovative solution. Only listed for Europe right now. One of those things you think of and then find it available already.

I've also seen an interconnection to the BAS system such that the keyswitch was replaced with an BAS relay on their controller. The system was programmed to automatically run the test activating each detector for the night in sequence, recording all the damper state changes, then resetting the intelligent panel through a relay. This allowed all the quarterly testing to be done with a very small crew and minimal disruption. This was AHJ approved and then mixed with a periodic smoke entry test using aerosol.

When using aerosol, you may want to confirm the aerosol was UL tested with the type of detectors being used, many hospitals have required this for JCAHO compliance.

--Chris

Free Signup

Subscribe and learn something new each day:

Community

Thank You to Our Top August 2019 Contributors!

1. SK
2. Amr
3. SR
4. Jack
5. Mike

6. Jonathan
7. Nic
8. Wayne A.
9. Rusty S.
10. Brenton

Your Post

The Toolkit

Sprinkler Designer or Engineer?

Get all of our tools, including the Sprinkler Database, Friction Loss Calculator, Fire Pump Analyzer and more:

FREE 30-DAY TRIAL

GET THE TOOLKIT

Filters

Exam Prep

2019 PE Prep Guide
(Available Now!)

PE Prep Series
(Available Now!)

Current Leaderboard
(Click to enlarge)

PE Problems

Visit July-October for daily Fire Protection PE Exam sample questions.

Solutions are posted the day after posting.

Comment with your solutions, questions or clarifications.

Please note that questions posted are unofficial and in accordance with NCEES rules are intended to be similar to actual exam questions, not actual exam questions themselves.

RSS Feed

Home - About - Blog - Contact - Exam Prep - Store

Copyright © 2019 MeyerFire, LLC
The views, opinions, and information found on this site represent solely the author shown and do not represent the opinions of any other party, nor does the presented material assume responsibility for its use. Fire protection and life safety systems constitute a critical component for public health and safety and you should consult with a licensed professional for proper design and code adherence. Some (not all) outbound links on this website, such as Amazon links, are affiliate-based where we receive a commission for orders placed elsewhere.