Fire Damper Testing in Liverpool

Professional Fire Damper Testing

When it comes to preventing the spread of fire and smoke, fire dampers are a crucial, passive fire protection device at the core of any efficient fire safety system. In order to make sure that they do their job effectively, it is important that they are regularly and thoroughly checked, tested and maintained, which is where we come in.

The team at Swiftclean are experienced at working with fire damper systems of all types and size for organisations across numerous sectors. Our specialists carry out professional, reliable and cost-effective fire damper testing in Liverpool to help ensure that everything is in top working order to protect your property and everyone inside.

What Are Fire Dampers and How Do They Work?

Fire dampers are installed inside ductwork where it passes through fire compartments such as fireproof walls, ceilings, floors and partitions. They remain open when they are not in use, allowing air to pass and flow freely throughout the ducts.

There are different types of fire damper but the majority come with a thermal element or fusible link which melts when the temperature is higher than normal, activating the damper and triggering it to slam shut. This then seals the ductwork and delays the spread of smoke and fire throughout the property.

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What Are the Benefits of Fire Dampers?

Fire dampers that are properly maintained and tested provide many benefits such as;

  • Help to reduce the rapid spread of fire
  • Provide the valuable time needed for occupants to safely evacuate
  • Keep exit paths clear
  • Contains fire at the correct side of the fire barrier for longer
  • Helps to limit the amount of damage caused
  • Helps to preserve vital routes for emergency services

All you wanted to know about Fire Damper Testing

Want to learn more about fire dampers and why regular testing is so important? Simply complete the form below to receive your copy of our “Ultimate Guide to Fire & Smoke Control Dampers 2025”. Once submitted, you’ll instantly receive an email with a link to the guide.

Our commitment:

When you choose Swift Fire Compliance, you can be confident that every aspect of your fire and smoke damper compliance is handled with care and expertise. Our team will:

  • Identify and locate each fire damper

  • Retrofit access doors if any of these are inaccessible

  • Carry out fire damper testing, cleaning and drop testing and reset each fire damper

  • Provide accurate records of fire damper testing, cleaning and drop testing, including before and after photographs of cleaning

  • Identify any problems and recommend remedial action

  • Carry out remedial work where required

FAQ’s

Here is an overview of what is typically involved during our fire damper testing and maintenance service:

  • All fire dampers are located and an inventory of them is created.
  • Each fire damper is individually inspected for any sign of corrosion, damage or obstruction.
  • Each one is then manually released or ‘dropped’ to check their effectiveness and if they are working properly.
  • All fire damper channels and runners are cleared and cleaned.
  • Notes are taken and advice is given on any damage, issue or if there are any parts that will need to be repaired or replaced.
  • All of the fire dampers are properly reset.
  • A detailed report is created which will include – the fire dampers locations, all maintenance or cleaning carried out, results from tests, notes on repairs and replacements, any photographic evidence and notes on any failures that occurred.

Fire dampers are hidden inside ductwork which makes them tricky to access and check on so there can be issues with them that go completely unnoticed. They need regular testing to ensure that they are in full working order.

There are a number of different issues that can cause them to fail such as;

  • Obstructions or blockages
  • Poor or improper installation
  • Corrosion and rust
  • Faulty or broken parts
  • Build-up of dirt, dust, grime and debris
  • Human error such as installing wires through the opening

Fire dampers can mean the difference between life and death and ensuring that they are working effectively should be a top priority which is why regular testing is a legal requirement.

If even one fire damper was to fail then it can cause;

  • Fire and smoke to spread rapidly through the ductwork and the building
  • Escape routes being compromised
  • A small fire turning into a bigger one that is more dangerous
  • Greater damage to the property and its contents
  • Smoke overwhelming those inside
  • Occupants being trapped by fire
  • Less time for people to safely evacuate

Fire Damper Services

At Swiftclean, we know the importance of regular fire damper maintenance and carry out professional testing to keep your premises and everyone inside safe from the dangers of fire. Our experts work to deliver comprehensive Liverpool fire damper testing services to bring you the complete peace of mind that comes from knowing your building is compliant.

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If you have any questions about fire damper testing or would like to find out more then please get in touch and one of our advisors will be happy to help you.

More resources and best practice

Fire dampers are in almost constant use, making it essential to ensure they close reliably when needed. By providing a barrier that prevents fire from spreading, properly functioning fire dampers save lives. This makes regular fire damper testing, cleaning, and maintenance not only a legal requirement but also a critical part of any building’s fire safety strategy.

Swiftclean is one of the UK’s leading specialist building services providers, offering fire damper testing, cleaning, and maintenance in line with BS 9999:2017, which now specifies that all fire dampers must be tested, cleaned, and maintained at least annually.

Everyday operation of ventilation systems leads to a build-up of dust, debris, and other contamination on dampers and their moving parts. Regular cleaning and testing ensure they function correctly in the event of a fire. In sensitive environments such as healthcare facilities, Swiftclean also complies with Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 03-01: Specialised ventilation for healthcare premises, helping clients establish testing schedules in agreement with local fire prevention officers.

As a trusted fire damper testing company, Swiftclean prides itself on meticulous care and expertise. All staff conducting tests are fully qualified and provide clear guidance throughout the process. We offer professional advice, recommendations, and a clear plan for next steps to maintain the safety and compliance of your building.

Fire damper testing should always be carried out by a competent, qualified professional.


Fire Damper – Open


Fire Damper – Closed

One of the main challenges in fire damper testing is identifying, locating, and accessing each damper within a building’s ductwork. Without expert knowledge, dampers can easily be overlooked or left unmaintained, compromising the safety system. Even when located, many dampers are hard to reach, making it essential to have access in order to inspect and test the internal blades properly. Thorough testing requires skill, experience, and the right equipment to ensure every damper operates effectively when it’s needed most.

Following the completion of your fire damper testing, we will provide you with a comprehensive written report to confirm compliance with BS 9999:2017. This report serves as an essential record for your fire safety management and should be kept on file.

Your report will include:

  • Before and after photographs of each fire damper
  • Damper numbers and exact locations for full traceability
  • Detailed findings and outcomes of the inspection

This documentation provides clear evidence of compliance and can be presented to a Safety Compliance Officer or relevant authority if required, giving you complete confidence in the fire safety of your building.

Fire Damper Testing: Areas We Cover

At Swift Fire Compliance, we provide specialist fire and smoke damper testing and inspections nationwide, with locally based teams on hand to deliver a reliable, professional service wherever you are in the UK.

With over 40 years of experience, we are trusted by Housing Associations, Councils, Hotels, Restaurants, Schools, Facilities Management companies, and M&E contractors. Our expertise ensures that your fire safety systems remain compliant, effective, and in peak condition through thorough testing, maintenance, and reporting.

  • Bedfordshire
  • Birmingham
  • Brighton
  • Colchester
  • Coventry
  • Essex
  • Hertfordshire
  • Leeds
  • Leicestershire
  • Liverpool
  • London
  • Manchester
  • Newcastle
  • Northamptonshire
  • Surrey
  • & More

“Fire & Smoke Control Dampers are critical in maintaining building fire compartmentation and protecting fire escape routes. Ensuring that they are compliant and function correctly through thorough, regular, effective inspection and testing, is vital to life safety, by ensuring that they will perform in the event of a fire.”

Gary Nicholls, MD of Swiftclean