Operating theatres incorporate a host of expensive equipment that could be damaged or destroyed in the event of fire anywhere within the hospital.
An ‘integral part’ of the fire protection system is the network of fire dampers – designed to close when the temperature within ductwork reaches a certain level. So says ductwork cleaning and air handling unit maintenance specialist, Ductbusters, which adds that, to ensure that these dampers operate when they should, as per BS9999, an annual ‘Drop Test’ should be performed, with the results recorded, and any necessary remedial action undertaken. Ductbusters has developed a programme to enable hospitals to comply with BS9999 and B&ESA SFG 20, and can offer advice, whether fire dampers can be identified from drawings, or by site inspection. The company said: “This has already proved of great help to a number of hospitals that have recognised the need to comply with regard to this essential fire protection measure.”
