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

Our daily posts run during study season (June - October). Subscribe for posts on PE Problems and Daily Discussions, straight to your inbox, for free:

Standings

Complete Standings for the Weekly Exam Series:

Now Available:

2018 PE Prep Guide

Weekly Practice Exams

Filters

Archives

October 2018
September 2018
August 2018
July 2018
June 2018
May 2018
November 2017
October 2017
September 2017
August 2017
July 2017
June 2017
November 2016
October 2016
July 2016
June 2016
June 2015

Daily Discussions

Daily discussion questions are open-ended questions posed by members for the benefit of sharing expertise and learning from other perspectives. Join as a member here.

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 © 2018 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.