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:
- Conduct inspection and testing in conformance with applicable codes.
- Conduct Fire Alarm test in High Buildings.
- Determine the smoke measure that applies to the building.
- Determine what testing procedures are required.
- Conduct test on the components in the smoke control system.
- Locate the components to be tested.
- Operate the appropriate testing equipment.
- Provide clear and accurate inspection and test reports.
- Communicate with owner or authorized agent and make recommendations for deficiencies that need to be rectified.
- Communicate clearly with the authority having jurisdiction.
Performance factors – The technician is able to:
- Understand and conduct all inspection and testing in conformance with the applicable code requirements.
- Demonstrate the ability to conduct fire alarm testing in high buildings and understand the relationship of the fire alarm system and the smoke measures.
- 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.
- Understand the requirements of the applicable code to determine what testing procedures are required.
- Demonstrate the ability to conduct tests on but not limited to air movement, smoke dampers, fans, doors, switches and vents.
- Determine the location of the components of the smoke control system by reading the plans and locating them in the building.
- Demonstrated the ability to use appropriate testing equipment such as pressure sensing devices or punk sticks.
- Prepare clear and accurate inspection and test reports and maintain records for the authority having jurisdiction.
- Communicate clearly with the owner or authorized agent and make recommendations for deficiencies that need to be rectified.
- 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.