First Revision No. 6-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Chapter NFPA ] · First Revision No. 6-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Chapter NFPA ] ... developed index of 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E ... Public

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First Revision No. 6-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Chapter NFPA ]

4.3.11.5.5 Materials within a raised floor plenum exposed to the airflow shall be (a)noncombustible or (b) exhibit a maximum flame spread index of 25 and amaximum smoke developed index of 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials,or with ANSI/UL 723, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics ofBuilding Materials, or (c) comply with 4.3.11.5.5.1 through 4.3.11.5.5.8, asapplicable.

Submitter Information Verification

Submitter Full Name: [ Not Specified ]

Organization: [ Not Specified ]

Submittal Date: Mon Nov 05 12:41:07 EST 2012

Committee Statement and Meeting Notes

CommitteeStatement:

This is simply a correction of an omission in the text. The default requirement formaterials exposed to the airflow in ceiling cavity plenums and raised floor plenums isthat they be noncombustible (which is already shown) or be limited combustible(which is the option in 4.3.11.2.6.9 and in 4.3.11.5.5.8) or that they meet a flamespread index of 25 and a smoke developed index of 50 in the ASTM E84/UL 723 test(and that portion is implied but missing from the text). This change does not affect (ofcourse) the requirements for materials of construction of the plenum, electrical wiresand cables, optical fiber cables, pneumatic tubing, sprinkler piping, raceways,discrete electrical products, supplementary materials air ducts or air connectors. It issimply clarification consistent with the intent.

ResponseMessage:

FR-6-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 3-NFPA 90A-2012 [Chapter NFPA]



First Revision No. 13-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Global Input ]

4.3.12.1 Egress Corridors.

4.3.12.1.1* Egress corridors in health care nursing and long term care facilities, detentionand correctional, and residential occupancies shall not be used as a portion of a supply,return, or exhaust air system serving adjoining areas unless otherwise permitted by4.3.12.1.3.1 through 4.3.12.1.3.4.

4.3.12.1.2 Air movement between rooms and egress corridors in hospitals, nursingfacilities, and ambulatory care facilities shall be permitted where the transfer of air isrequired for clinical purposes by other standards.

.




Submittal Date: Tue Nov 06 09:39:28 EST 2012


CommitteeStatement:

The committee agreed with this change which duplicates the language itapprovel in TIA 90A-12-1.

ResponseMessage:

FR-13-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 39-NFPA 90A-2012 [Global Input]



First Revision No. 4-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. 2.3.2 ]

2.3.2 ASTM International Publications.

ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA19428-2959.

ASTM C 411, Standard Test Method for Hot-Surface Performance of High-TemperatureThermal Insulation, 2005 2011 .

ASTM D 93, Standard Test Methods for Flashpoint by Pensky-Martens Closed CupTester, 2010 2011 .

ASTM E 84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of BuildingMaterials, 2010b 2012 .

ASTM E 119, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction andMaterials, 2011 2012 .

ASTM E 136, Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnaceat 750°C, 2009b 2011 .

ASTM E 2231, Standard Practice for Specimen Preparation and Mounting of Pipe andDuct Insulation Materials to Assess Surface Burning Characteristics, 2009.

ASTM E 2652, Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Tube Furnace with aCone-shaped Airflow Stabilizer, at 750°C , (2009a).






Committee Statement: Standards date updates

Response Message: FR-4-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 17-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. 2.3.2]




2.3.6 UL Publications.

Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096.

ANSI/UL 181, Standard for Safety Factory-Made Air Ducts and Air Connectors, 2005,Revised 2008.

ANSI/UL 181A, Standard for Safety Closure Systems for Use with Rigid Air Ducts, 2005,Revised 2008.

ANSI/UL 181B, Standard for Safety Closure Systems for Use with Flexible Air Ducts andAir Connectors, 2005, Revised 2008.

ANSI/UL 263, Standard for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials, 2009.

ANSI/UL 555, Standard for Safety Fire Dampers, 2006, Revised 2010 2012 .

ANSI/UL 555C, Standard for Safety Ceiling Dampers, 2006, Revised 2010.

ANSI/UL 555S, Standard for Safety Smoke Dampers, 1999, Revised 2010 2012 .

ANSI/UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of BuildingMaterials, 2008, Revised 2010.

ANSI/UL 867, Standard for Safety Electrostatic Air Cleaners, 2000, Revised 2007 2011 .

ANSI/UL 900, Standard for Safety Air Filter Units, 2004, Revised 2009 2012 .

ANSI/UL 1820, Standard for Safety Fire Test of Pneumatic Tubing for Flame and SmokeCharacteristics, 2004, Revised 2009.

ANSI/UL 1887, Standard for Safety Fire Test of Plastic Sprink ler Pipe for Visible Flameand Smoke Characteristics, 2004, Revised 2009.

ANSI/UL 1995, Standard for Safety Heating and Cooling Equipment, 2003, Revised2008 2011 .

ANSI/UL 2024, Standard for Signaling, Optical Fiber and Communication CableRaceway Raceways and Cable Routing Assemblies , 2004, Revised 2007 2011 .

ANSI/UL 2043, Standard for Safety Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release forDiscrete Products and Their Accessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces, 2008.






Committee Statement: Update referenced standard to most recent edition as indicated.






3.3.21* Limited-Combustible (Material).

Refers to a building construction material not complying with the definition ofnoncombustible material that, in the form in which it is used, has a potential heat valuenot exceeding 8141 kJ/kg (3500 Btu/lb), where tested in accordance with NFPA 259 ,Standard Test Method for Potential Heat of Building Materials and that includes either ofthe following: (1) materials having a structural base of noncombustible material, with asurfacing not exceeding a thickness of 3.2 mm ( 1⁄8 in.) that has a flame spread index notgreater than 50; or (2) materials, in the form and thickness used, having neither a flamespread index greater than 25 nor evidence of continued progressive combustion, and ofsuch composition that surfaces that would be exposed by cutting through the material onany plane would have neither a flame spread index greater than 25 nor evidence ofcontinued progressive combustion when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84,Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , orANSI/UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of BuildingMaterials See 4.4.2 .






CommitteeStatement:

This change puts NFPA 90A in line with what was done for NFPA 101 (and manyother documents) in the 2012 cycle. NFPA requirements are that definitions cannotcontain requirements and the definitions of noncombustible and limited combustiblecontain requirements. Therefore this public input proposes to put simply a placeholder in chapter 3 (definitions) and place the requirements into Chapter 4, just aswas done in NFPA 101 and 5000. The proposed language is identical to thelanguage in NFPA 101. If the technical committee wishes it can simply extract thelanguage from NFPA 101. The corresponding sections are: 3.3.21 would beextracted from 3.3.169.2, 3.3.22 would be extracted from 3.3.169.4, 4.4.1 would beextracted from 4.6.13 and 4.4.2 would be extracted from 4.6.14.

ResponseMessage:

FR-11-NFPA 90A-2012





3.3.22* Noncombustible Material.

A material that, in the form in which it is used and under the conditions anticipated, willnot ignite, burn, support combustion, or release flammable vapors when subjected to fireor heat. Materials that are reported as passing ASTM E 136, Standard Test Method forBehavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C , are considerednoncombustible materials See 4.4.1 .






CommitteeStatement:


ResponseMessage:

FR-3-NFPA 90A-2012


First Revision No. 1-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. 4.3.11.2.6 [Excluding

any Sub-Sections] ]



Materials within a ceiling cavity plenum exposed to the airflow shall: be noncombustible orcomply with 4.3.11.2.6.1 through 4.3.11.2.6.10 , as applicable.

(1) Be noncombustible, or

(2) Exhibit a maximum flame spread index of 25 and a maximum smoke developedindex of 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84, Standard Test Method forSurface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , or with ANSI/UL 723,Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , or

(3) Comply with 4.3.11.2.6.1 1 through 4.3.11.2.6.10 , as applicable.




Submittal Date: Thu Nov 01 16:26:50 EDT 2012


CommitteeStatement:

This is simply a correction of an omission in the text. The default requirement formaterials exposed to the airflow in ceiling cavity plenums and raised floor plenums isalways considered to be, and should continue to be, that they be noncombustible(which is already shown) or be limited combustible (which is the option in4.3.11.2.6.9 and in 4.3.11.5.5.8) or that they meet a flame spread index of 25 and asmoke developed index of 50 in the ASTM E84/UL 723 test (and that portion isimplied but missing from the text). This same default applies in the InternationalMechanical Code. This change does not affect (of course) the requirements formaterials of construction of the plenum, electrical wires and cables, optical fibercables, pneumatic tubing, sprinkler piping, raceways, discrete electrical products,supplementary materials, air ducts or air connectors. It is simply clarificationconsistent with the intent. In the absence of this change the default would be for thematerials to be noncombustible, which was never the intent. The technicalcommittee clearly noticed that because its committee statement on comment 90A-33 was “The committee concludes that this is a material that would default to thegeneral material requirements”. However, as pointed out by both Dwayne Sloan andmyself, the default, if this language is not incorporated into the standard, is thatmaterials that are not specifically mentioned must be noncombustible. At presentNFPA 90A sends the user to a section that refers to the ASTM E 84/UL 723requirements (section 4.3.3) but it applies only to “supplementary materials for airdistribution systems”. This was proposed at the last cycle but it came in at thecomment stage and was deemed new material and held. It was then proposed as aTIA but it did not get the ¾ majority needed for emergency nature. It received 21affirmatives, 5 negatives, 1 abstention and 2 non returns on technical merit (20affirmatives were needed, so that it passed on technical merit) and 19 affirmatives, 8negatives, 0 abstentions and 2 non returns on emergency nature (21 affirmativeswere needed, so that it failed on emergency nature).

ResponseMessage:

FR-1-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 19-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. 4.3.11.2.6 [Excluding any Sub-Sections]]



First Revision No. 2-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. 4.3.11.2.6.4 ]

4.3.11.2.6.4

Optical fiber communications and signaling Signaling, optical fiber, and communicationsraceways shall be listed as having a maximum peak optical density of 0.50 or less, anaverage optical density of 0.15 or less, and a maximum flame spread distance of 1.5 m(5 ft) or less when tested in accordance with ANSI/UL 2024, Standard for Signaling,Optical Fiber and Communication Cable Raceway Communications Raceways and CableRouting Assemblies . Cables installed within these raceways shall be listed as plenumcable in accordance with the requirements in 4.3.11.2.6.1 .




Submittal Date: Thu Nov 01 16:27:36 EDT 2012


CommitteeStatement:

UL 2024, which previously covered optical fiber and communications raceways, andUL 2024A which previously covered cable routing assemblies, have been merged. UL2024A has been dropped and the new UL 2024 covers raceways (signaling, opticalfiber and communications types) and cable routing assemblies. This Public Inputrecommends updating the reference to UL 2024, as well as expanding the section toreflect the expanded scope of UL 2024, which now includes signaling raceways, andcable routing assemblies. UL 2024 has identical fire test requirements for raceways(signaling, optical fiber and communications types) and cable routing assemblies.The parallel Section 4.3.11.5.5.4 (raised floor plenum) contains the requirement thatonly plenum cables shall be permitted to be installed in plenum raceways. Sincecable routing assemblies, unlike raceways, are not required to be enclosed, thecables in a cable routing assembly may be exposed to the airflow and therefore mustbe listed for use in a plenum. The recommended additional last sentence thereforerequires plenum grade cables in signaling, optical fiber and communicationsraceways and in cable routing assemblies installed in ceiling cavity plenums. Seeour companion Public Input for 4.3.11.5.5.4 which recommends identicalrequirements for raised floor plenums.

ResponseMessage:

FR-2-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 34-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. 4.3.11.2.6.4]




4.3.11.2.6.5*

Loudspeakers, recessed lighting fixtures, and other electrical equipment withcombustible enclosures, including their assemblies and accessories, non-metallic cableties, wraps, nonmetallic cable supports, and other discrete products, shall be permittedin the ceiling cavity plenum where listed as having a maximum peak optical density of 0.5or less, an average optical density of 0.15 or less, and a peak heat release rate of 100kW or less when tested in accordance with ANSI/UL 2043, Standard for Safety Fire Testfor Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete Products and Their AccessoriesInstalled in Air-Handling Spaces.






CommitteeStatement:

A variety of products are used for cable support and cable organization, includinghooks, wraps and cable ties. Some of the wrap products are a hook and loop design(think Velcro) that have the same function as cable ties. Nonmetallic cable hangersof various designs are also used. This Public Input seeks to clarify what some of the“other discrete products” are. Examples of some of these products can be found onthe web at: http://www.panduit.com/stellent/groups/mpm-wc/documents/selectionguide/cmscont_035126.pdfhttp://www.azcotechnologies.com/#!_wire-management http://www.comdangles.com/http://panduitsolutions.com/networkers/staticfiles/assets/gb/SA-WAC06.pdfhttp://www.te.com/us/en/industries/energy/productsubcontents.aspx?name=9202

ResponseMessage:

FR-7-NFPA 90A-2012


First Revision No. 8-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. 4.3.11.5.5 [Excluding

any Sub-Sections] ]



Materials within a raised floor plenum exposed to the airflow shall: be noncombustible orshall comply with 4.3.11.5.5.1 through 4.3.11.5.5.11 , as applicable.

(1) Be noncombustible, or

(2) Exhibit a maximum flame spread index of 25 and a maximum smoke developedindex of 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84, Standard Test Method forSurface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , or with ANSI/UL 723,Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , or

(3) Comply with 4.3.11.5.5.1 through 4.3.11.5.5.11 , as applicable.






CommitteeStatement:

This is simply a correction of an omission in the text. The default requirement formaterials exposed to the airflow in ceiling cavity plenums and raised floor plenums isalways considered to be, and should continue to be, that they be noncombustible(which is already shown) or be limited combustible (which is the option in4.3.11.2.6.9 and in 4.3.11.5.5.8) or that they meet a flame spread index of 25 and asmoke developed index of 50 in the ASTM E84/UL 723 test (and that portion isimplied but missing from the text). This same default applies in the InternationalMechanical Code. This change does not affect (of course) the requirements formaterials of construction of the plenum, electrical wires and cables, optical fibercables, pneumatic tubing, sprinkler piping, raceways, discrete electrical products,supplementary materials, air ducts or air connectors. It is simply clarificationconsistent with the intent. In the absence of this change the default would be for thematerials to be noncombustible, which was never the intent. The technicalcommittee clearly noticed that because its committee statement on comment 90A-33 was “The committee concludes that this is a material that would default to thegeneral material requirements”. However, as pointed out by both Dwayne Sloan andmyself, the default, if this language is not incorporated into the standard, is thatmaterials that are not specifically mentioned must be noncombustible. At presentNFPA 90A sends the user to a section that refers to the ASTM E 84/UL 723requirements (section 4.3.3) but it applies only to “supplementary materials for airdistribution systems”. This was proposed at the last cycle but it came in at thecomment stage and was deemed new material and held. It was then proposed as aTIA but it did not get the ¾ majority needed for emergency nature. It received 21affirmatives, 5 negatives, 1 abstention and 2 non returns on technical merit (20affirmatives were needed, so that it passed on technical merit) and 19 affirmatives, 8negatives, 0 abstentions and 2 non returns on emergency nature (21 affirmativeswere needed, so that it failed on emergency nature).

ResponseMessage:

FR-8-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 26-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. 4.3.11.5.5 [Excluding any Sub-Sections]]




4.3.11.5.5.4

Optical fiber, communications, and signaling Signaling, optical fiber, andcommunications raceways shall be listed as having a maximum peak optical density of0.50 or less, an average optical density of 0.15 or less, and a maximum flame spreaddistance of 1.5 m (5 ft) or less when tested in accordance with ANSI/UL 2024, Standardfor Signaling, Optical Fiber and Communication Cable Raceway CommunicationsRaceways and Cable Routing Assemblies . Cables installed within these raceways shallbe listed as plenum cable in accordance with the requirements in 4.3.11.5.5.1.






CommitteeStatement:

The committee choose not to incorporate cable routing assemblies. This wouldallow excessive buildup of these materials.

ResponseMessage:

FR-9-NFPA 90A-2012





4.3.11.5.5.6

Loudspeakers, recessed lighting fixtures, and other electrical equipment withcombustible enclosures, including their assemblies and accessories, nonmetallic cableties, wraps, nonmetallic cable supports, and other discrete products, shall be permittedin the raised floor plenum where listed as having a maximum peak optical density of 0.5or less, an average optical density of 0.15 or less, and a peak heat release rate of 100kW or less when tested in accordance with ANSI/UL 2043, Standard for Safety Fire Testfor Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete Products and Their AccessoriesInstalled in Air-Handling Spaces.






CommitteeStatement:

The committee added language to specify exactly the type of cablesupports allowed.



First Revision No. 14-NFPA 90A-2012 [ New Section after 4.3.13 ]

Global FR-14 Hide Deleted

4.4 Materials.

4.4.1* Noncombustible Material.



4.4.1.1

A material that complies with any of the following shall be considered a noncombustiblematerial:

(1) A material that, in the form in which it is used and under the conditionsanticipated, will not ignite, burn, support combustion, or release flammable vaporswhen subjected to fire or heat.

(2) A material that is reported as passing ASTM E 136, Standard Test Method forBehavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 Degrees C .

(3) A material that is reported as complying with the pass/fail criteria of ASTM E 136when tested in accordance with the test method and procedure in ASTM E 2652,Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Tube Furnace with a Cone-shaped Airflow Stabilizer, at 750 Degrees C .

[ 101: 4.6.13.1]

4.4.1.2

Where the term limited-combustible is used in this standard, it shall also include theterm noncombustible. [101: 4.6.13.2]

4.4.2* Limited-Combustible Material.

A material shall be considered a limited-combustible material where all the conditions of4.4.2.1 and 4.4.2.2 , and the conditions of either 4.4.2.3 or 4.4.2.4 , are met. [101: 4.6.14]

4.4.2.1

The material shall not comply with the requirements for noncombustible material inaccordance with 4.4.1 . [ 101: 4.6.14.1]

4.4.2.2

The material, in the form in which it is used, shall exhibit a potential heat value notexceeding 3500 Btu/lb (8141 kJ/kg) where tested in accordance with NFPA 259 ,Standard Test Method for Potential Heat of Building Materials . [ 101: 4.6.14.2]

4.4.2.3

The material shall have the structural base of a noncombustible material with a surfacingnot exceeding a thickness of 1 ⁄8 in. (3.2 mm) where the surfacing exhibits a flamespread index not greater than 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84, StandardTest Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , or ANSI/UL 723,Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials . [ 101:4.6.14.3]

4.4.2.4

The material shall be composed of materials that, in the form and thickness used,neither exhibit a flame spread index greater than 25 nor evidence of continuedprogressive combustion when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84, Standard TestMethod for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , or ANSI/UL 723,Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials , and shallbe of such composition that all surfaces that would be exposed by cutting through thematerial on any plane would neither exhibit a flame spread index greater than 25 norexhibit evidence of continued progressive combustion when tested in accordance withASTM E 84 or ANSI/UL 723. [ 101: 4.6.14.4]

4.4.2.5

Where the term limited-combustible is used in this standard, it shall also include theterm noncombustible . [ 101: 4.6.14.5]








CommitteeStatement:


ResponseMessage:

FR-14-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 23-NFPA 90A-2012 [New Section after 4.3.13]

First Revision No. 15-NFPA 90A-2012 [ New Section after 5.4.5.4.2 ]


5.4.5.4.3

Fire dampers, smoke dampers, and combination fire/smoke dampers shall not berequired in ducts used for kitchen or clothes dryer exhaust systems.






Committee Statement: The committee agrees that this provides additional clarification.


Public Input No. 30-NFPA 90A-2012 [New Section after 5.4.5.4.2]




6.3.3

Smoke dampers installed to isolate the air-handling system in accordance with4.3.9.2 4.3.10.2 shall be arranged to close automatically when the system is not inoperation.






Committee Statement: It appears that Section 6.3.3 references the incorrect paragraph.



First Revision No. 17-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. A.4.3.11.2.6.5 ]

A.4.3.11.2.6.5

Cable Nonmetallic cable ties listed to ANSI/UL 62275, Cable Management Systems—Cable Ties for Electrical Installations , and nonmetallic cable supports listed to ANSI/UL1565, Positioning Devices, and marked for use in plenums are considered suitable foruse wherever cable ties tested in accordance with ANSI/UL 2043, Standard for SafetyFire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete Products and TheirAccessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces, are required.






Committee Statement: The committee changed the words "wraps and" to "cable".


Public Input No. 38-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. A.4.3.11.2.6.5]



First Revision No. 18-NFPA 90A-2012 [ New Section after A.4.3.13 ]


A.4.4.1

The provisions of 4.4.1 do not require inherently noncombustible materials to betested in order to be classified as noncombustible materials.






CommitteeStatement:


ResponseMessage:

FR-18-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 24-NFPA 90A-2012 [New Section after A.4.3.13]



First Revision No. 19-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. A.7.2 ]

A.7.2

See NFPA 105, Standard for Smoke Door Assemblies and Other Opening Protectives,for testing requirements for smoke dampers and combination fire and smoke dampers.See NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives, for testingrequirements for fire dampers. AMCA International’s Guide for Commissioning andPeriodic Performance Testing of Fire, Smoke and Other Life Safety Related Dampersprovides guidelines from damper manufacturers on how to test dampers for acceptancetesting and for follow-up periodic testing.






CommitteeStatement:

The committee agred with the submitter, but changed the word"recommendations" to "guidlines.

ResponseMessage:

FR-19-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 31-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. A.7.2]

First Revision No. 22-NFPA 90A-2012 [ New Section after C.1.2.1 ]


C.1.2.2 AMCA Publications.

Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA), 30 West University Drive, ArlingtonHeights, IL 60004.

Guide for Commissioning and Periodic Performance Testing of Fire, Smoke and OtherLife Safety Related Dampers , 2011.








CommitteeStatement:

There is widespread inconsistency on how to test life safety dampers. Thisdocument is intended to provide a resource document to help eliminate unnecessarysteps to proper inspection and testing procedure, while ensuring that damper testingis useful and yields inspection and maintenance information that supports theirproper function in the event of an emergency. The entire document is not intended tobe published in the 90A annex, but has been re-printed here for information purpose,and review by the TC and other interested parties. Guide for Commissioning andPeriodic Performance Testing of Fire, Smoke and Other Life Safety Related Dampers(2011) Copyrighted and published by AMCA International (www.amca.org) PurposeFire Dampers, Smoke Dampers, Combination Fire Smoke Dampers, CeilingRadiation Dampers, and other types of dampers that perform as part of a building’sFire Protection or Life-Safety System must function properly during a fire or life-safety emergency. Proper installation and periodic performance testing are requiredto ensure these dampers function as intended in a fire emergency. The purpose ofthis document is to provide recommendations for the proper commissioning of Fireand Life Safety Related Dampers and to describe the appropriate intervals andmethods for performing periodic performance testing of these dampers. BackgroundLife Safety Dampers are designed to perform a number of functions in a building’sHVAC, Fire and/or Smoke Control System and are an integral part of the overall life-safety system within the building. Generally, Fire Dampers are designed to closeand prevent the spread of fire through an opening in a fire resistive barrier. CeilingRadiation Dampers are designed to close and reduce the transfer of heat through anopening in the ceiling membrane of floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling assembly. Refer to thespecified ceiling design for details regarding penetrations. Smoke Dampers operateto prevent the spread of smoke by closing to stop airflow or by opening to exhaustsmoke. They can also be opened or closed to create pressure differences (as in anengineered smoke control system) to reduce the spread of smoke. Combination FireSmoke Dampers perform the dual role of both Fire Dampers and Smoke Dampers.Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has developed and maintains standards for thetesting, qualification, and appropriate labeling of Fire Dampers (UL 555), SmokeDampers (UL 555S), Combination Fire Smoke Dampers (UL 555 and UL 555S) andCeiling Radiation Dampers (UL 555C & UL 263). Manufacturers of these dampers,who have complied with these UL requirements, provide classified and labeleddampers for installation where required in HVAC and Engineered Smoke ControlSystems. Building Codes and several NFPA and ASHRAE Standards identify whereFire, Smoke and Ceiling Radiation Damper s are required to be installed in abuilding’s HVAC and/or Smoke Control System. Architects and Design Engineersincorporate Code required dampers in their building designs but also may incorporateadditional requirements depending on a building’s specific purpose and intendedfunction. Commissioning or Acceptance Testing The term Commissioning is used todefine an inspection process to determine if all components of a building areoperating as intended by the building’s design. Ensuring that a building’s mechanicalsystem, its HVAC System, and any Smoke Control or other Life-Safety relatedsystems operate properly (including all Fire and Life-Safety Related Dampers), anddocumenting their proper operation is the result of the Commissioning process. Thisprocess is also known as Acceptance Testing. Below are the AMCA recommendedchecklists for the commissioning of Fire and Life-Safety Related Dampers. Forspecific installation requirements of the brand and model damper beingcommissioned, the damper manufacturer’s installation instructions shall bereferenced. Fire Dampers and Combination Fire Smoke Dampers 1. Positioning ofthe Damper in the Opening – Unless specifically allowed by the dampermanufacturer’s installation instructions, the centerline of the fire damper’s frame shall



be located in the plane of the fire rated assembly. 2. Damper Sleeve – Unless thedamper frame is wide enough to provide for direct attachment of retaining angles, allfire dampers shall be mounted in a sleeve fabricated per the damper manufacturer’sinstallation instructions. The sleeve shall not extend more than 6 inches beyond thewall or floor opening unless there is an actuator or factory mounted access door onthe damper. When an actuator or factory mounted access door is installed, thesleeve shall not extend more than 16 inches beyond the wall or floor opening. Thesleeve is still limited to extending 6 inches beyond the wall or floor opening on theside opposite the actuator or factory mounted access door. 3. Clearance betweenDamper and Wall/Floor Opening – Most dampers are tested with defined clearancesbetween the damper’s sleeve and the wall or floor opening. Unless otherwiseindicated in the installation instructions, the annular space between the sleeve of thedamper and the wall/floor opening should not be filled with firestop materials such asfill, void or cavity materials. Reference the damper manufacturer’s installationinstructions for the specific clearance requirements. 4. Securing Damper and Sleeveto the Wall/Floor Openings – Most approved damper installation methods require theuse of retaining angles to secure the damper in the wall or floor opening. Referencethe damper manufacturer’s installation instructions for the required material gauge ofthe retaining angles, the required overlap between the retaining angles and the wall orfloor, and the spacing and type of fasteners to be used. 5. Duct to SleeveConnections – Dampers are tested and approved to use specific methods forconnecting the damper sleeve to adjoining ductwork. Reference the dampermanufacturer’s installation instructions for the allowable duct to sleeve connections.6. Damper Access – Access to the dampers shall be provided. Access shall belarge enough to allow inspection and maintenance of the damper and its operatingparts. The access points shall be permanently identified on the exterior by a labelhaving letters not less than ½ inch in height reading: FIRE/SMOKE DAMPER orFIRE DAMPER. 7. Damper Flow and Pressure Ratings – For dynamic fire dampersand combination fire smoke dampers, it shall be verified that the system airflow andpressure are within the damper’s ratings 8. Operation of the Damper – After thedamper is installed it shall be cycled to ensure proper operation. The operation testperformed as part of the commissioning process shall follow the same proceduredescribed in the Periodic Performance Testing section below. Smoke Dampers 1.Positioning of the Damper Relative to the Opening – The centerline of the dampershall be mounted within 24 inches of the opening it is protecting. In addition, noductwork shall branch-off between the damper and the wall or floor opening it isprotecting. 2. Sealing the Damper Frame to the Ductwork – Many damperinstallations require that the damper frame be sealed to the ductwork it is beinginstalled in. Reference the damper manufacturer’s installation instructions todetermine if this requirement applies and to determine the allowable sealants. 3.Damper Access – Access to the dampers shall be provided. Access shall be largeenough to allow inspection and maintenance of the damper and its operating parts.The access points shall be permanently identified on the exterior by a label havingletters not less than ½ inch in height reading: SMOKE DAMPER. 4. Damper Flowand Pressure Ratings – It shall be verified that the system airflow and pressure arewithin the dampers ratings. 5. Operation of the Damper – After the damper isinstalled it shall be cycled to ensure proper operation. The operation test performedas part of the commissioning process shall follow the same procedure described inthe periodic performance testing section below. Ceiling Radiation Dampers 1. HourlyRating – Ceiling dampers carry a maximum hourly rating for the assembly in whichthey are installed. Check that the maximum hourly rating of the damper installed isapproved for the same hourly rating as the ceiling assembly. 2. Positioning of theDamper in or Over the Penetration – The damper can be installed on top of a steeldiffuser, sitting directly on the rated ceiling grid, in a steel duct drop, or supported



such that the frame rest at the penetration. Refer to the manufacturer’s installationinstructions for the maximum allowed distance that the closed blades are allowedfrom the bottom of the rated ceiling. In the case of drywall installation, consultinstructions for maximum allowed clearance between penetration and damper frame.3. Thermal Blanket – When a damper is not located directly in the penetration andthe damper frame is more than 1 inch smaller than the penetration, then a thermalblanket is normally required to reduce heat transfer across the grille back pan. Referto the manufacturers installation instructions for the recommended material and sizeof the thermal blanket. 4. Clearance between Damper, Grille, Duct, and Wall/FloorOpening – Most dampers are tested with defined clearances as specified in theirinstructions. If not specified, a rule of thumb is to keep tolerances minimal (less than1/8 inch) between connecting components. If possible, have the largest componentextend over the smaller one below it. Reference the damper manufacturer’sinstallation instructions for the specific clearance requirements. 5. Securing Damperto the Sleeve, Grille, Ductwork – Most of the time, dampers are to be installed sothat they are supported by the structural members above them or the ceiling grid.Ceiling dampers are not normally supported by the drywall, gypsum, or ceiling tilesalone. They are normally supported via steel wires, hangers, or duct drops with directfasteners such as screws, rivets, and bolts. Reference the damper manufacturer’sinstallation instructions for the required material and fasteners. 6. Grille to Damper toDuct Connections – Unless otherwise stated in the manufacturer’s installationinstructions, the damper will either lie on the ceiling grid or cover the neck of thediffuser. If connected to duct, the damper should be installed inside the ductconnection. 7. Operation of the Damper – After the damper is installed, the fuse linkshall be removed and the damper blades allowed to close upon its own mechanics.Cycling the damper ensures proper operation. The operation test performed as part ofthe commissioning process shall follow the same procedure described in periodicperformance testing section below. Periodic Performance Testing Fire Life-Safetyrelated dampers that are properly applied and installed and that have proven theability to function as intended through a building commissioning process shouldrequire no specific on-going maintenance beyond the periodic testing describedbelow to confirm operability. Although the required frequency of this periodicoperation testing varies by local jurisdiction, most local requirements reference oneof two national standards, either NFPA 80 or NFPA 105. NFPA 80 covers therequirements for fire dampers and NFPA 105 covers the requirements for smokedampers. Both documents contain the following frequency requirements for periodicoperation testing: Each damper shall be tested and inspected one year afterinstallation. The test and inspection frequency shall then be every 4 years, except inhospitals, where the frequency shall be every 6 years. The method used to performthe periodic operation testing depends on the type of damper. More specifically, itdepends on how the damper operates. From an operability standpoint, fire life-safetyrelated dampers fall into one of the two following categories: 1. Dampers Requiring aFusible Link to Operate – Most Fire Dampers and Ceiling Radiation Dampers, andsome Combination Fire Smoke Dampers are held in an open position by a fusiblelink. The fusible link is designed to melt at a specified temperature allowing gravity ora spring to close the damper. After the fusible link has melted these dampers remainclosed until reopened manually and a new fusible link is installed. 2. Dampers ThatDo Not Require a Fusible Link to Operate – Smoke Dampers, some Fire Dampersand most Combination Fire Smoke Dampers do not use fusible links to operate.These dampers use an electric or pneumatic actuator to operate the damper. FireDampers and Combination Fire Smoke Dampers that do not use fusible links use abi-metallic disc type thermostat to interrupt electrical power or air pressure to theactuator at a specified temperature. Once the electrical power or air pressure isinterrupted the spring return feature of the actuator closes the damper. The



recommended procedure for performing the periodic operation testing on fusible linkoperated dampers is described below. As always, the damper manufacturer’sinstallation and operation instructions should be followed: 1. For safetyconsiderations, ensure that the fan is off. 2. With the damper in the full-openposition, remove the fusible link. Care should be taken to ensure that there are noobstructions, including hands, in the path of the damper blades before the fusible linkis removed. 3. Once the fusible link is removed, ensure that the damper closescompletely without assistance. If the damper is designed with a latch to hold thedamper in the full-closed position confirm that the damper latches properly. 4. Returnthe damper to the full-open position and replace the fusible link. If the link appearsdamaged, replace with a functionally equivalent link. Periodic Performance Testingfor Dampers That Do Not Use a Fusible Link to Operate The recommendedprocedure for performing periodic operation testing on dampers that do not require afusible link to operate is described below. Two procedures are described. The firstdescribes the procedure for dampers designed with position indication switches toverify that the damper has reached the full-open and full-closed position Theseswitches can be wired to local or remote control panels or building automationsystems (BAS) to indicate if the damper is in the full-open position, the full-closedposition, or neither. The second procedure describes the procedure for testingdampers without position indication switches. As always, the damper manufacturer’sinstallation and operation instructions should be followed. Dampers with PositionIndication Wired to Indication Lights, Control Panels or BAS 1. Use the signal fromthe damper’s position indication device to confirm that the damper is in the full-openposition. 2. Remove electrical power or air pressure from the actuator to allow theactuator’s spring return feature to close the damper. 3. Use the signal from thedamper’s position indication device to confirm that the damper reaches its full-closedposition. 4. Reapply electrical power or air pressure to reopen the damper. 5. Usethe signal from the damper’s position indication device to confirm that the damperreaches its full-open position. Dampers without Position Indication 1. Visuallyconfirm that the damper is in the full-open position. 2. Ensure that all obstructions,including hands, are out of the path of the damper blades and then remove electricalpower or air pressure from the actuator to allow the actuator’s spring return feature toclose the damper. 3. Visually confirm that the damper closes completely 4. Reapplyelectrical power or air pressure to reopen the damper. 5. Visually confirm that thedamper is in the full-open position. In addition to these requirements, NFPA 72 andNFPA 92 describe the periodic testing requirements for smoke control systems.Dampers that are part of smoke control systems shall be cycled as part of thistesting. List of Publications Referenced in this Document UL 555 Standard for FireDampers UL 555S Standard for Smoke Dampers UL 555C Standard for CeilingDampers UL 263 Standard for Fire Tests of Building and Construction MaterialsNFPA 80 Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives NFPA 105Standard for the installation of Smoke Door Assemblies and Other OpeningProtectives NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code NFPA 92 Standard forSmoke Control Systems

ResponseMessage:

FR-22-NFPA 90A-2012

First Revision No. 21-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. C.1.2.2 ]

C.1.2.3 ASTM International Publications.

ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA19428-2959.

ASTM E 84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of BuildingMaterials, 2010b 2012b .

ASTM E 136, Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnaceat 750°C, 2009b 2012 .

ASTM E 2231, Standard Practice for Specimen Preparation and Mounting of Pipe andDuct Insulation Materials to Assess Surface Burning Characteristics, 2009.

ASTM E 2652, Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Tube Furnace with aCone-Shaped Airflow Stabilizer, at 750°C, 2009 2012 .






CommitteeStatement:

Standards date updates. The committee made revisions at the request of thesubmitter to further update the editions.

ResponseMessage:

FR-21-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 18-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. C.1.2.2]



First Revision No. 20-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Section No. C.1.2.5 ]

C.1.2.6 UL Publications.

Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096.

ANSI/UL 555, Standard for Safety Fire Dampers, 2006, Revised 2010 2012 .

ANSI/UL 555S,Standard for Safety Smoke Dampers, 1999, Revised 2010 2012 .

ANSI/UL 1565, Positioning Devices, 2002, Revised 2008.

ANSI/UL 2043, Standard for Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release forDiscrete Products and Their Accessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces, 2008.

UL Subject 2424, Outline of Investigation for Cable Marked Limited Combustible,2006.

Building Materials Directory, 2010 2012 .

Fire Resistance Directory, 2010 2012 .

Heating, Cooling, Ventilating and Cooking Equipment Directory, 2009 2012 .






CommitteeStatement:

Update referenced standard to most recent edition as indicated. The committeechanged the edition year for ANSI/UL 555 at the request of the submitter to correctan error.

ResponseMessage:

FR-20-NFPA 90A-2012

Public Input No. 8-NFPA 90A-2012 [Section No. C.1.2.5]

Documents

First Revision No. 6-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Chapter NFPA ] · First Revision No. 6-NFPA 90A-2012 [ Chapter NFPA ] ... developed index of 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E ... Public