Room Integrity Testing
Room integrity is one of the most important parts of the suppression system as a whole and is very often overlooked.
Maintaining the effectiveness of an installed gas fire suppression system is critical to it’s designed operation. The primary objective of a room integrity test is to determine the total leakage of a room. The results are used to evaluate whether a clean agent or CO2 suppression system will adequately protect the equipment within the enclosure. This test can be used to optimize room and suppression system design.
In the event of a system discharge, significant pressure fluctuations are associated with the rapid release of clean agent into an enclosure. These pressures can pose a structural risk to the room and equipment. The room integrity test will determine the extent of these pressure fluctuations.
The room integrity test is accomplished by using specialized equipment to pressurize and depressurize an enclosure. This test is significantly more cost effective and environmentally friendly compared to a system discharge test of either clean agent or CO2.
This test predicts how long it will take for the gas to descend to a certain level without having to carry out a discharge of the system, which can be costly as well as disruptive.
A room integrity test is also required each time a protected room is altered, modified or worked on. A hole created by installing new cables, a damaged door that doesn’t close properly, an incorrectly set relief damper and building works can jeopardise or even inhibit completely, performance of any suppression system. The global industry best practice is to conduct a room integrity test on an annual basis. This ensures that the critical equipment within the room is adequately protected and the room has not been inadvertently compromised.
When it comes to air tightness and integrity testing, it’s essential to have technicians who are certified by the Air Tightness Testing and Measurement Association (ATTMA). These technicians have the necessary expertise and training to provide excellent service and in-depth investigation. By working with ATTMA qualified technicians, building owners and managers can have confidence that their building is performing as efficiently as possible, while also improving the overall comfort and health of occupants.
