Smoke-control system fault checklist

01 Describe the failed function, not only the equipment

Identify whether the problem concerns smoke extraction, stairwell pressurization, makeup air, a fan, damper, sensor, control panel, starter, variable-speed drive, power supply or an interface from the FDAS. Record the command that was given and the response that was expected.

Examples include a fan failing to start, a fan running in the wrong mode, a damper not reaching position, an alarm or supervisory status remaining active, doors becoming difficult to operate, or measured pressure or airflow failing the accepted project criteria.

02 Capture the control and operating condition

Do not force dampers, bypass safeties or repeatedly command unknown equipment to produce a different result. Smoke-control systems can interact with power, fire alarm, access control, doors and other mechanical equipment; responsible representatives may need to attend testing.

1. Panel, controller, drive, starter and FDAS messages or status lights
2. Fan and damper identification matching the current drawings where available
3. Manual, automatic, fire-mode and normal-mode behavior observed
4. Door, shaft, grille, duct and affected-zone conditions during the issue
5. Recent maintenance, renovation, balancing, electrical or controls work

03 Airflow and pressure require defined test conditions

A reading is meaningful only when its location, instrument, door position, fan state, system mode and acceptance basis are known. Comparing an unlabelled handheld reading with a generic internet target does not establish system performance.

Provide approved drawings, sequences, prior balancing or commissioning records and the required test condition. DGRB can then determine whether the next step is controls diagnosis, mechanical inspection, measurement, balancing, repair or integrated testing.

04 Plan repair and retesting as one controlled scope

Once the cause is confirmed, corrective work may involve electrical, controls, mechanical or fire-alarm responsibilities. The quotation should identify which party owns each action and how the affected sequence will be tested after the work.

DGRB records the functions tested, results, remaining deficiencies and items outside the agreed scope. Final performance and approval remain subject to the accepted design basis and applicable authority review.

1. Exact facility, zone and equipment identity
2. Expected sequence and observed response
3. Current drawings, cause-and-effect and prior test records
4. Access, occupancy, shutdown and other-trade requirements

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