BS 9999, or the British Standard 9999, is an extensive code of practice, offering recommendations concerning fire safety in the design, construction, management, and use of commercial buildings. Its guidance aims to ensure the fire safety of buildings throughout their entire life cycle.
Within the context of fire dampers, the BS 9999 code stipulates that ‘any grille or opening through the enclosure for ventilation purposes should be protected by a fire damper’, whilst insisting that fire damper systems are tested immediately following installation. After this point, it suggests that ‘all fire dampers [should] be tested by a competent person on completion at least annually, and to be repaired or replaced immediately if found to be faulty. Spring–operated fire dampers, should be tested annually and fire dampers situated in dust-laden and similar atmospheres should be tested more regularly.’