INTERPRET DOP'S IN 10 EASY STEPS

How to interpret DOP’s (Declaration of Performance) in 10 easy steps.

?1.?????Double Arrow ? means bi-directional. This is vital as you are likely to obtain two different results from each test i.e. 120minutes could be achieved one direction, and 90minutes in the other direction, resulting in a 90minute damper.

2.?????Maximum single damper is the maximum size shown on the DOP, which cannot be exceeded unless you have tested again in multiple assemblies (dampers must have 200mm between them).

3.?????Where multiple assembly testing has been completed, the maximum sizing will also be stated on the DOP. This aspect cannot be overruled by P.I (professional indemnity insurance), it can only be permissible with the supported test result.

4.?????You must test in both H (horizontal) and V (Vertical) to facilitate installation in both orientations. Some damper manufacturers will offer products with just one of these for their own reasons and all shown as H only or V only.

5.?????You must test your smallest and largest square damper you must also test your smallest and largest round damper separately. Commonly many round dampers are untested.

6.?????You must test manual and motorized dampers separately. Where this is not completed, you can only validate the drive mechanism that was tested for CE marking.

7.?????With great pressure on space and multiple services in a single penetration seal, only those manufacturers that have tested minimal distances (25/30mm from slab, 50mm from another damper) can validate such installations as CE approved, again the use of P.I is not a substitute to the required testing.

8.?????There is no test for a fire smoke damper, there is either a fire damper tested to EN1366-2 (manual and motorized), or a smoke damper test to EN1366-10.

9.?????Dampers tested in solid walls only are uncertified for use in flexible walls, however, vice versa is permitted. Installation methods must be limited to manufacturers detail, the use of fire-batt, plasterboard plates, metal plates, HEVAC frames etc must be a replication of the actual test installation.

10.?EIS rating of dampers;

E, represents the integrity of a damper, its ability to stop a fire from passing from a compartment.

I, represents the temperature integrity of a fire damper, its ability to stop high temperatures from passing from one compartment to another.

S, Represents the smoke integrity of a fire, its ability to stop smoke passing from one compartment space to another.

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Historically some former EU member states have resisted the full suite of EN tests believing them to be optional, thus confusing the market with their literature suggesting they could have positions/results they have never tested. What everyone wants is clarity and validation that products are fit for purpose, When in doubt you can always request the test laboratories “classification report” which should confirm the manufacturers declared results.

If you or your team require training on the interpretation of DOP’s, please do not hesitate to contact us for a dedicated teams/zoom meeting with our trusted partner RF Technologies. [email protected] ?