Smoke Control Systems (SM)

Smoke Control Inspection & Testing Competency Guide (SM)

General Knowledge:

  • Inspection Requirements.
  • Inspection and testing of Fire Alarms in High Buildings.
  • Smoke Control System Operation.
  • Equipment required to conduct the testing.
  • Building plan reading.

Applicable Codes:

  • Vancouver Fire By-law
  • B.C. Fire Code
  • B.C. Building Code
  • Vancouver Building By-law
  • Supplement to the National Building Code of Canada

Competencies – Technician is able to:

  1. Conduct inspection and testing in conformance with applicable codes.
  2. Conduct Fire Alarm test in High Buildings.
  3. Determine the smoke measure that applies to the building.
  4. Determine what testing procedures are required.
  5. Conduct test on the components in the smoke control system.
  6. Locate the components to be tested.
  7. Operate the appropriate testing equipment.
  8. Provide clear and accurate inspection and test reports.
  9. Communicate with owner or authorized agent and make recommendations for deficiencies that need to be rectified.
  10. Communicate clearly with the authority having jurisdiction.

Performance factors – The technician is able to:

  1. Understand and conduct all inspection and testing in conformance with the applicable code requirements.
  2. Demonstrate the ability to conduct fire alarm testing in high buildings and understand the relationship of the fire alarm system and the smoke measures.
  3. Demonstrate the ability to determine the smoke measure of the building from the plans, operations manual or from any contact that would provide him with the information.
  4. Understand the requirements of the applicable code to determine what testing procedures are required.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to conduct tests on but not limited to air movement, smoke dampers, fans, doors, switches and vents.
  6. Determine the location of the components of the smoke control system by reading the plans and locating them in the building.
  7. Demonstrated the ability to use appropriate testing equipment such as pressure sensing devices or punk sticks.
  8. Prepare clear and accurate inspection and test reports and maintain records for the authority having jurisdiction.
  9. Communicate clearly with the owner or authorized agent and make recommendations for deficiencies that need to be rectified.
  10. Communicate clearly with the authority having jurisdiction and advise him of any problems or unsafe condition in the building.

Note: The above mentioned competencies are to be used as a guideline for the type of work the technician is required to do. For accurate testing references the appropriate code shall be consulted.

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