AS 1851 6 1997 maintenance of fire protection equipment

Title

AS 1851.6-1997 Maintenance of fire protection equipment - Management procedures
for maintaining the fire and smoke control features of air-handling systems

Licensee

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002

Conditions of use
This is a licensed electronic copy of a document where copyright is owned or managed by
Standards Australia International. Your licence is a single user licence and the document may not
be stored, transferred or otherwise distributed on a network. You may also make one paper copy
of this document if required.

Web Check-up


AS 1851.6—1997

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Australian Standard
Maintenance of fire protection
equipment
Part 6: Management procedures
for maintaining the fire and smoke
control features of air-handling
systems

This Australian Standard was prepared by Committee ME/62, Ventilation and
Airconditioning. It was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia
on 2 May 1997 and published on 5 June 1997.

The following interests are represented on Committee ME/62:
Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors Association of Australia
Air-conditioning
of Australia

and

Refrigeration

Equipment

Manufacturers

Association

Australian Building Codes Board
Australian Fire Authorities Council
Australian Institute of Building Surveyors
Australian Institute of Environmental Health

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating
Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers
Department of Contract and Management Services, W.A.
Fire Protection Industry Association of Australia

Institution of Refrigeration Heating and Airconditioning Engineers, New Zealand
Insurance Council of Australia
Metal Trades Industry Association of Australia
Plastics and Chemicals Industry Association
Property Council of Australia
Thermal Insulation Contractors Association of Australia
WORKS Australia, Department of Administrative Services

Review of Australian Standards. To keep abreast of progress in industry, Australi an Standards are
subject to periodic review and are kept up to date by the issue of amendments or new editions as
necessary. It is important therefore that Standards users ensure that they are in possession of the latest
editi on, and any amendments thereto.
Full detail s of all Australian Standards and related publications will be found in the Standards Australi a
Catalogue of Publi cations; this information is supplemented each month by the magazine ‘The
Australian Standard’, which subscribing members receive, and which gives detail s of new publications,
new editions and amendments, and of withdrawn Standards.
Suggestions for improvements to Australian Standards, addressed to the head office of Standards
Australia, are welcomed. Notification of any inaccuracy or ambiguity found in an Australian Standard
should be made wit hout delay in order that the matter may be investigated and appropriate action taken.

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 95419.


AS 1851.6—1997

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Australian Standard
Maintenance of fire protection
equipment

Part 6: Management procedures
for maintaining the fire and smoke
control features of air-handling
systems

Originated as AS 1851.6 —1983.
Second edition 1997.

PUBLISHED BY STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
(STANDARDS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA)
1 THE CRESCENT, HOMEBUSH, NSW 2140
ISBN 0 7337 1209 6


AS 1851.6 — 1997

2

PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand
Committee ME/62, Ventilation and Airconditioning, to supersede AS 1851.6— 1983.
This Standard is the result of a consensus among representatives of the Joint Committee
to produce it as an Australian Standard.
The objective of this document is to provide a Standardized basis for the maintenance of
the fire and smoke control features of air-handling systems for use by system owners and
maintainers.
The fire-precaution features of air-handling systems in buildings not only need to be
designed, installed, commissioned and operated in accordance with AS 1668.1 — 1991,
The use of mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning in buildings , Part 1: Fire and
smoke control, but also need to be maintained at an adequate level of performance to

ensure their availability in an emergency, hence safeguarding the occupants and
minimizing property damage.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

In the preparation of this Standard, consideration was given to the following:
(a)

Poor management being the cause for the failure of a large number of maintenance
programs associated with building services.

(b)

Air-handling systems being designed to suit the requirements of individual
buildings, which implies that the detailed maintenance required varies from system
to system.

(c)

Maintenance procedures having to be sufficiently flexible to take account of the
particular features of an item of equipment and the environment in which it is
installed.

(d)

Unnecessary attention being as detrimental as insufficient maintenance in certain
cases.

(e)

Potential cost implications.

(f)

Requirements for systems integrity testing.

Accordingly, this Standard is aimed at the management aspect of maintenance programs.
Mandatory requirements for simple inspections are laid down. For initiating more complex
inspections and corrective actions, appropriate routines are suggested.
The term ‘informative’ has been used in this Standard to define the application of the
appendix to which it applies. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and
guidance.

 Copyright

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Users of Standards are reminded that copyright subsists in all Standards Australi a publications and software. Except where the
Copyri ght Act allows and except where provided for below no publications or soft ware produced by Standards Australi a may be
reproduced, stored in a retri eval system in any form or transmitt ed by any means wit hout prior permission in wri ti ng from
Standards Austr alia. Permission may be conditi onal on an appropriate royalt y payment. Requests for permission and information
on commercial soft ware royalt ies should be dir ected to the head off ice of Standards Australi a.
Standards Austr alia wil l permit up to 10 percent of the technical content pages of a Standard to be copied for use
exclusively in-house by purchasers of the Standard without payment of a royalty or advice to Standards Austr alia.
Standards Austr alia will also permit the inclusion of its copyri ght material in computer soft ware programs for no royalty
payment provided such programs are used exclusively in-house by the creators of the programs.
Care should be taken to ensure that material used is from the current edit ion of the Standard and that it is updated whenever the
Standard is amended or revised. The number and date of the Standard should therefore be clearly identif ied.
The use of materi al in pri nt form or in computer soft ware programs to be used commercially, wit h or wit hout payment, or in
commercial contr acts is subject to the payment of a royalt y. This policy may be varied by Standards Australi a at any ti me.

3

AS 1851.6 — 1997

CONTENTS
Page

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2 APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS . . .
1.4 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

..
..
..
. .

..
..
..
..

..
..
..

..

. ..
...
.. .
...

. ..
...
.. .
. ..

.. ..
. ...
....
.. ..

..
..
..
..

..
..
..
..

4
4
4

5

SECTION 2 MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
2.1 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.2 IMPLEMENTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3 FOLLOW-UP ACTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6
6
6

SECTION 3 MAINTENANCE ROUTINES
3.1 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2 LEVELS OF MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3 FREQUENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4 PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS . . . . . . .

7
7
7
8

. ... .. ..
.. ......
... ... ..
.. .. ... .

... ...
.. .. ..
......

. ... ..

..
..
..
..

..
..
..
..

...
...
...
...

... .....
... ... ..
.. ... ...
........

SECTION 4 MAINTENANCE DOCUMENTATION
4.1 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.2 OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE MANUALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.3 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.4 PLANT REGISTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.5 PLANT HISTORY RECORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.6 MAINTENANCE RECORDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.7 AVAILABILITY OF MANUALS AND RECORDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

4.8 EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
APPENDICES
A RECOMMENDED FREQUENCIES OR CONDITIONS FOR LEVELS 2, 3
AND 4 ROUTINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
B TYPICAL INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE ROUTINES . . . . . . . . . . . . 12


AS 1851.6 — 1997

4

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
Australian Standard
Maintenance of fire protection equipment
Part 6: Management procedures for maintaining the fire and smoke
control features of air-handling systems
S E C T I O N

1

S CO P E

A N D

G E NE R A L

1.1 SCOPE This Standard specifies management procedures for controlling the
inspection and testing of required fire and smoke control features associated with
air-handling systems in buildings, to ensure their effective availability.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

NOTES:
1

The procedures set out in this Standard and all consequential corrective actions, preferably,
should be carried out, or at least be supervised, by competent personnel.

2

In the assessing of the need for corrective action, regard should be given to the various
factors which may affect the precise performance from day to day. For this reason, critical
limits of performance will need to be known. In this context a critical limit sets the level of
a performance characteristic beyond which its effect could become detrimental to life safety.

3

It is recommended that the management system developed for the maintenance of the fireprecaution features of the air-handling systems is integrated with the management systems
developed for other associated building services such as lifts, smoke detection systems, fire
suppression systems and emergency power systems to create an integrated maintenance
management system.

1.2 APPLICATION This Standard applies to scheduled periodic maintenance
procedures following completion of satisfactory commissioning or recommissioning tests
for all fire-precaution features of air-handling systems which come within the scope of
AS 1668.1. It is not intended to be applied to commissioning or recommissioning tests,
although it may be used as a basis for such tests where appropriate.
NOTE: Mandatory requirements for the frequency of simple inspections are laid down as
Level 1 routines. Informative recommendations for more complex and detailed inspections are
laid down as Levels 2, 3 and 4 routines.

1.3 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS The following documents are referred to in this
Standard:
AS
1668
1668.1

The use of mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning in buildings
Part 1: Fire and smoke control

1851
1851.3
1851.5
1851.7
1851.8
1851.10

Maintenance of fire protection equipment
Part 3: Automatic fire sprinklers
Part 5: Automatic smoke/heat venting systems
Part 7: Fire-resistant doorsets
Part 8: Automatic fire detection and alarm systems
Part 10: Emergency warning and intercommunication systems

COPYRIGHT


5

AS

2676

AS 1851.6 — 1997

2676.1
2676.2

Guide to the installation, maintenance, testing and replacement of secondary
batteries in buildings
Part 1: Vented cells
Part 2: Sealed cells

NZS
4512

Fire alarm systems in buildings

1.4 DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions given in
AS 1668.1 and the following apply:
1.4.1 Automatic activation — testing by alarm actuation of a smoke or thermal detector,
sprinkler flow/pressure switch, manual call point or other initiating field device providing
control to the system, with the system in its automatic mode.
1.4.2 Competent person —a person who has had appropriate training or practical
experience (or both) in the subject, sufficient to provide safe and satisfactory
performance.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

1.4.3 Maintenance — that regular routine activity aimed at preserving the operational
standard and cleanness of equipment. It may include inspection, repair, preventive service

and cleaning.
1.4.4 Maintenance program —the assembly of relevant data and the setting out of a
formal strategy and recording system for the effective management of a series of
maintenance procedures.
1.4.5 Maintenance report — a written communication, giving details of the physical and
operational state of a piece of equipment when maintenance is carried out, which is sent
to the building owner or authorized agent.
1.4.6 Simulated activation —testing by operation of test switches either locally to
equipment or from the fire fan control panel or from the master smoke control system
panel.
1.4.7 Specified performance — the performance specified in the documentation against
which the installation was approved.
1.4.8 Testing — operational checking (which may include measurements) to ascertain the
level of performance of an air-handling item, plant or system for the purpose of
maintaining its specified performance. Other types of testing such as production or
commissioning testing are excluded from this definition.

COPYRIGHT


AS 1851.6 — 1997

S E C T I O N

6

2

M AI N T E N AN C E

P R O G R A M

2.1 GENERAL A maintenance program shall be prepared and it shall include the
assembly of relevant data and the setting down of a formal strategy and recording system
for effective management of a series of maintenance procedures.
2.2 IMPLEMENTATION Implementation of a maintenance program shall be as
detailed in Sections 3 and 4. The maintenance program shall be designed and initiated
with data obtained from full commissioning or recommissioning tests in accordance with
AS 1668.1 or from full Level 4 routines in accordance with this Standard.
NOTE: It is recommended that maintenance programs are coordinated with other trades and
attention is drawn to the requirements of AS 1851.3, AS 1851.5, AS 1851.7, AS 1851.8 and
AS 1851.10 and NZS 4512.

2.3

FOLLOW-UP ACTION

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

2.3.1 General All maintenance records shall be examined regularly and action shall be
initiated where the need for remedial works is identified by the building owner or
authorized agent.
2.3.2 Programming Where a Level 1 inspection (see Section 3) indicates a
malfunction of any sort, appropriate action at Level 2, Level 3 or Level 4 shall be
initiated immediately regardless of the timing for the selected action in the maintenance
schedule.
2.3.3 Corrective action The corrective action shall be carried out with all reasonable
expedition to ensure that the safety features are maintained at optimum performance and
availability levels.
2.3.4 Recommissioning Where under a Level 4 routine a major component or system

is rebuilt or replaced, the item concerned shall be subject to a full recommissioning test.
2.3.5 Updating of records All plant records, operational diagrams and ‘as installed’
drawings as required by Section 4 shall be kept up-to-date.

COPYRIGHT


7

S E C T I O N

3

AS 1851.6 — 1997

M AI N T E N AN C E

R O U T I N ES

3.1 GENERAL Detailed maintenance instructions comprising inspection, testing and
preventative action shall be prepared by a competent person for each relevant component
of the air-handling system(s).
3.2 LEVELS OF MAINTENANCE Inspection, testing and other maintenance routines
shall be conducted at four levels as follows:
(a)

Level 1 Functional checks by means of sensory inspection such as sight, touch,
hearing or smell.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

NOTE: Diagnostic procedures are deemed to be an acceptable form of inspection.

(b)

Level 2 Level 1 plus cleaning, lubrication, simple routine maintenance and
adjustment which does not necessitate taking the equipment out of service.

(c)

Level 3 Level 2 plus testing and measurement procedures with consequential
adjustments as necessary to ensure optimum effective performance. These routines
may require equipment to be taken out of service, but will generally enable rapid
reinstatement if the need arises.

(d)

Level 4 Overhaul and test procedures which will normally necessitate an item
being taken out of service, possibly for prolonged periods. As a general rule, these
routines are necessary only for the correction of defects found during Level 3
routines and are not necessarily carried out at specified intervals.

NOTE: Typical routines are illustrated in Appendix B.

3.3

FREQUENCY

3.3.1 Level 1 routines
in Table 3.1 unless —

(a)

(b)

Level 1 routines shall be carried out at the frequencies set out

the regulatory authority—
(i)

approves a lower frequency; or

(ii)

requires a higher frequency; or

the building owner or authorized agent desires to carry out these routines more
frequently.

NOTES:
1

Operating conditions
frequencies.

or environmental

2

Changes of frequencies may be approved on the basis of information provided from
performance based maintenance and monitoring systems.

3.3.2 Levels 2, 3 and 4 routines
indicated by—

factors would normally dictate changes of

Levels 2, 3 and 4 routines should be carried out as

(a)

the results of Level 1 routines (see Clause 2.3); or

(b)

one of the following, in the order of preference hereunder:
(i)

Manufacturer’s recommendations.

(ii)

Appendix A recommendations.

(iii)

Information from performance monitoring systems.

COPYRIGHT

AS 1851.6 — 1997

8

TABLE

3.1

FREQUENCIES FOR LEVEL 1 ROUTINES
Item
Fans

Motors, induction

Batteries for
fire/smoke control
services

Routine*

Frequency†

Supply and return air

B2

Monthly

Smoke-spill‡ and air-pressurization

B2

Quarterly

Fan drives, frequent use

B3

Monthly

Fan drives, test and emergency use only

B3

Quarterly

Vented cells

See AS 2676.1/NZS 4512

Sealed cells

See AS 2676.2/NZS 4512

Fire dampers (including intumescent dampers)

B4

Yearly§

Fire mode air dampers for smoke-spill, fresh air and recycle air, complete
with their automatic gear

B5

Half-yearly

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Automatic smoke detectors for fire/smoke control services

See AS 1851.8/NZS 4512

Air filters

B6

Monthly

Electric duct heaters

B7

Yearly

Kitchen exhaust systems

B8

Monthly

Air-handling changeover under fire/smoke conditions

B9

Quarterly

Fire-isolated escape routes protected by air-pressurization systems

B10

Quarterly

Automatic smoke/heat venting systems

See AS 1851.5

*

This refers to maintenance routines described in Appendix B, unless otherwise indicated.

†

In cases where systems include required items of plant and equipment not included in this table, the
frequencies shall be to the approval of the regulatory authority.

‡

This refers to dedicated smoke-spill fans. Return-air fans doubling as smoke-spill fans are treated as
return-air fans.

§

20% of the total, so that all fire dampers have been covered at the end of the fifth inspection.

3.4 PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS For Level 3 and Level 4 routines, the
techniques of performance measurement shall be such as will —
(a)

ensure reliable consistency of the results of measurement;

(b)

permit sound assessment of the measurement results for compliance with relevant
health and safety criteria; and

(c)

enable meaningful comparison with the corresponding measurement result of the
commissioning or recommissioning tests.

NOTE: To achieve the foregoing it is necessary to use instruments and techniques compatible
with the tolerances and performance applicable to any particular item.

COPYRIGHT


9

AS 1851.6 — 1997

S E C T I O N 4
M AI N T E N AN C E
D O C U M E N T A T I O N
4.1 GENERAL Documentation required to implement the maintenance program (see
Section 2) shall include operating and maintenance manuals, a maintenance schedule,
plant register, plant history sheet and diagram(s) of the installation. The documents shall
be maintained, up-to-date and kept in a secure place.
NOTE: Attention is drawn to the requirements of AS 1668.1 relating to the purpose, location
and updating of operating instructions and diagrams of the installation.

4.2 OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE MANUALS Operating and maintenance
manuals shall be provided for all plant, equipment and systems which are the subject of
this Standard.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Operating and maintenance manuals shall include at least the following:
(a)

Physical details of the plant, equipment and systems.

(b)

Supplier’s recommendations on maintenance and management.

(c)

Recommended cleaning methods and dismantling instructions.

(d)

Operating and shut-down procedures.

(e)

Particulars of the maintenance program.

4.3 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE The maintenance schedule shall list all required
items of plant and equipment and operational features to be subjected to the maintenance
routines described in this Standard. It shall include the frequencies at which the relevant
levels of routines are to be carried out.
4.4 PLANT REGISTER The plant register shall list all items of plant and equipment
which require inspection as a prerequisite to maintenance, and shall describe their
locations within the building. If not already incorporated in the operating and maintenance
manuals, the plant register shall include design data and unit capacities in sufficient detail
to order a replacement of equivalent performance.
Each item of plant and equipment in the plant register shall be allocated an identity
reference. The identity reference allocated shall be unique within the building concerned
and shall be indicated on the diagram(s).
NOTES:
1

Generally, an auxiliary item incorporated within the parent equipment need not be allocated
a separate identity reference.

2

For ease of identification, the marking of items of plant and equipment with allocated
identity references is recommended.

4.5 PLANT HISTORY RECORD The plant history record shall be used to record
details of the performance (test results) of each item at commissioning or any subsequent
recommissioning.
At subsequent inspections and tests the results shall be recorded and compared with the
results achieved at commissioning or any subsequent recommissioning. Any defects
observed and any repairs and modifications effected shall be recorded in the plant history
record.

COPYRIGHT


AS 1851.6 — 1997

10

4.6 MAINTENANCE RECORDS Up-to-date maintenance reports, plant history
records and log books shall be provided for all plant, equipment and systems which are
the subject of this Standard.
Maintenance records shall contain at least the following information:
(a)

Date, item of plant, equipment or system and nature of service performed.

(b)

Details of defects found and rectification procedure undertaken.

(c)

The name of the person or company performing the service.

4.7 AVAILABILITY OF MANUALS AND RECORDS Operating and maintenance
manuals and maintenance records shall be readily available for inspection by authorized
personnel upon request. For the purpose of maintenance management, the maintenance
records shall be retained for a minimum period of five years.
NOTE: Maintenance records, design data and records of unit capacities should be retained for
the life of the equipment.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

4.8 EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE Records that are required to be kept (see
Clause 4.7) shall provide evidence of compliance with this Standard.

COPYRIGHT


11

AS 1851.6 — 1997

APPENDIX A

RECOMMENDED FREQUENCIES OR CONDITIONS
FOR LEVELS 2, 3 AND 4 ROUTINES
(Informative)

Fans

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Motors,
induction

Batt eries
for
fi re/smoke
control
services

Frequencies or conditi ons

Routine
*

Level 2

Level 3

Supply and return air

B2

Quarterl y

Yearly

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Smoke-spil l† and air pressuri zati on

B2

Yearly

Yearly

Only if inspecti on indicated
necessit y

Fan dri ves, frequent use

B3

Quarterl y

Yearly

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Fan dri ves, test and emergency
use only

B3

Half -yearl y

Two-yearly

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Item

Level 4

Vented cells

See AS 2676.1/NZS 4512

Sealed cell s

See AS 2676.2/NZS 4512

Fire dampers

B4

Five-yearl y

N/A

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Fire mode air dampers for smoke-spill , fresh air
and recycle air, complete with their automati c
gear

B5

Yearly

N/A

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Automati c smoke detectors for fir e/smoke
control services

See AS 1851.8/NZS 4512

Air fil ters

B6

N/A

Yearly

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Electr ic duct heaters

B7

Two-yearly

Five-yearl y

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Kitchen exhaust systems

B8

As
requir ed‡

Yearly

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Air- handli ng changeover under fi re/smoke
condit ions

B9

Yearly

N/A

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Fire-i solated escape routes protected by airpressuri zati on systems

B10

Yearly

Two-yearly

Only if inspecti on indicates
necessit y

Automati c smoke/heat venti ng systems
Outdoor air intakes

See AS 1851.5
B11

Monthly

N/A

Level 1*
This refers to maintenance routines descri bed in Appendix B.
† This refers to dedicated smoke-spil l fans. Return-air fans doubling as smoke-spil l fans are tr eated as return-air fans.
‡ Owing to the wide vari ation in usage, the fr equency of this routi ne is subject to the requir ements of the regulatory authorit y.
This is a case where a Level 2 routi ne may be more frequent than a Level 1 in certain circumstances.

COPYRIGHT

AS 1851.6 — 1997

12

APPENDIX B

TYPICAL INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE ROUTINES
(Informative)
B1 GENERAL The routines in this Appendix have been prepared to provide examples
of typical procedures which may be followed by management for specific items of an
air-handling system. However, where more than one set of routines contain similar
requirements, such requirements should be regarded as being satisfied concurrently.
NOTE: Follow up action should be instigated by the building owner or authorized agent.

B2

FANS

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

B2.1 Level 1
following:

The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the

(a)

Check bearings for noise and overheating.

(b)

Check fans for excessive vibration.

(c)

Check guards and other safety features for satisfactory condition.

(d)

Check fan belts for wear.

(e)

Check flexible connections, where fitted, for leaks, tearing or fraying.

B2.2 Level 2
following:

The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the

(a)

Check lubrication of bearings and apply as necessary.

(b)

Check fan belts for correct tension.

(c)

Check couplings for tightness.

(d)

On fan energization, operation and de-energization, check that the flexible
connections are not overstressed owing to fan movement.

B2.3 Level 3
following:

The action items required for a Level 3 routine should include the

(a)

Check pulley wheels for alignment.

(b)

Check couplings for alignment.

(c)

Verify that fan output meets design requirements.

B2.4 Level 4
following:

The action items required for a Level 4 routine should include the

(a)

Check casing and impeller for corrosion and treat as necessary.

(b)

Check balance of impeller if work carried out on it.

(c)

Check lubrication of bearings and apply as necessary.

(d)

Check fan belts if applicable.

(e)

Check reassembled unit for excessive vibration.

(f)

Check that guards and other safety features are satisfactory.

(g)

Check for correct rotation.

(h)

Measure and record fan output.

(i)

Repair or replace flexible connections as necessary.
COPYRIGHT


13

B3

MOTORS, INDUCTION

B3.1 Level 1
following:

The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the

(a)

Check for noisy running.

(b)

Check for excessive vibration.

(c)

Check for excessive heating.

B3.2 Level 2
following:

The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the

(a)

Check that external ventilation airways are clear.

(b)

Apply lubrication if necessary.

B3.3 Level 3
following:
(a)

AS 1851.6 — 1997

The action items required for a Level 3 routine should include the

Measure and record insulation resistance of stator windings.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

NOTE: Manufacturer’s cautionary notes should be observed especially where solid state
devices are used.

(b)

Measure and record running current.

(c)

Check starter, protection settings, contacts and terminals where appropriate.

B3.4 Level 4
following:

The action items required for a Level 4 routine should include the

(a)

Overhaul or replace with exchange unit.

(b)

Measure and record thermistor resistances where fitted.

(c)

Test run.

(d)

Measure and record insulation resistance of stator windings.

B4

FIRE DAMPERS

B4.1 Level 1
following:

The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the

(a)

Inspect for obstructions.

(b)

Confirm position correct.
NOTE: Inspect 20% of the total so that all fire dampers have been covered at the end of the
fifth inspection.

B4.2 Level 2 The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the
following:
(a)

Check for corrosion.

(b)

Check that mounting is sound.

(c)

Check that integrity of fire wall is not impaired where applicable.

(d)

Check correct operation (excluding intumescent fire dampers).

(e)

Restore to correct position (excluding intumescent fire dampers).

B4.3

Level 3

Not applicable.

B4.4

Level 4

Replace as appropriate.

COPYRIGHT


Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

AS 1851.6 — 1997

14

B5 FIRE MODE AIR DAMPERS FOR SMOKE-SPILL, FRESH AIR AND
RECYCLE AIR, COMPLETE WITH THEIR AUTOMATIC CONTROL GEAR
B5.1 Level The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the
following:
(a) Inspect for obstructions.
(b) Ensure drive force is available from the motors.
B5.2 Level 2 The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the
following:
(a) Ensure damper(s) moves to its fire mode position upon removal of power source.
(b) Check that there is no excessive leakage past dampers when in the closed position.
(c) Check and adjust all motor drive linkages and ensure no ‘slippage’ or excessive
hysteresis is occurring.
(d) Check linkage and damper bearings and lubricate as necessary.
(e) Ensure that any damper position indicators are operational and correctly positioned
where fitted.
(f)
If motors are pneumatic, check for air leaks in the air lines and connections.
(g) If control system is pneumatic, check for correct operation of air compressors,
filters, dryers and pressure reducing systems.
B5.3 Level 3 Not applicable.
B5.4 Level 4 Replace as appropriate.
B6 AIR FILTERS
B6.1 Level 1 The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the
following:
(a) Inspect upstream and downstream of the filter and remove any large items
obstructing the air flow.
(b) Check filter integrity (filter sealing) and any signs of filter deterioration.
B6.2 Level 2 Not applicable.
B6.3 Level 3 The action items required for a Level 3 routine should include the
following:

(a) Check the pressure differential across the filter against the filter manufacturer’s
instruction.
(b) Check that any adhesive liquid or coating being used has been supplied in a
container indicating a certified flashpoint not less than 160°C.
B6.4 Level 4 The action items required for a Level 4 routine should include the
following:
(a) Replace filters as per manufacturer’s instructions.
(b) Renew any liquid and recoat any coating using an adhesive with a certified
flashpoint not less than 160°C. Replace any fabric with correct type or wash as
appropriate.
B7 ELECTRIC DUCT HEATERS
B7.1 Level 1 The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the
following:
(a) Check the outside surface of the heater casing for discolouration or any indication
that overheating has taken place.
(b) Check for any loose external connections and fittings.
COPYRIGHT


15

B7.2 Level 2
following:

AS 1851.6 — 1997

The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the

(a)

Check for any loose internal thermal insulation.

(b)

Check the elements for obstructions and accumulation of foreign matter.

(c)

Check that the heater switches off upon switching off the fan.

(d)

Check operation of airflow sensing device by simulating loss of airflow.

(e)

Check operation of over-temperature cutout by simulating overheating of the heater
bank.

B7.3

Level 3

Not applicable.

B7.4

Level 4

Repair or replace as necessary.

B8

KITCHEN EXHAUST SYSTEMS

NOTE: Fire protection or suppression systems installed within kitchen exhaust systems may
have special requirements.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

B8.1 Level 1
following:

The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the

(a)

Check grease-arresting filters for excessive grease accumulation.

(b)

Check hood and its exhaust plenum for excessive grease accumulation.

(c)

Check that grease-arresting filters are secured in position and free of damage.

(d)

Check grease gutters for any excessive grease accumulation.

B8.2

Level 2

Clean grease-arresting filters.

NOTE: Owing to the wide variation in usage, the frequency of this routine is subject to the
requirements of the regulatory authority. This is a case where a Level 2 routine may be
more frequent than a Level 1 in some circumstances.

B8.3 Level 3
following:

The action items required for a Level 3 routine should include the

(a)

Clean hood and its exhaust plenum.

(b)

Check for excessive air leaks at grease-arresting filters.

(c)

Check duct for accumulated grease and clean it.

B8.4
B9

Level 4

Replace any damaged grease-arresting filters.

AIR-HANDLING CHANGEOVER UNDER FIRE/SMOKE CONDITIONS

NOTES:
1

These routines are to ensure satisfactory changeover and operation of the air-handling
installation. The maintenance of the equipment such as fans, motors, fire dampers and
similar are covered under the routines for the individual items.

2

Arrangements should be made for the Fire Brigade to be notified whenever an automatic
activation test is to be conducted to advise that the alarm will sound and to advise that the
system may be inoperative for a certain time.

B9.1 Level 1
following:
(a)

The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the

Simulate fire/smoke situation (for each system when separate) to effect changeover
or shutdown as appropriate.
NOTE: The purpose of a simulated testing routine is to check the functioning of the
air-handling changeover system complete with its associated dedicated smoke detector

COPYRIGHT


AS 1851.6 — 1997

16

circuits and not the detectors themselves. It is not recommended practice in this case to
simulate the fire/smoke situation by bringing a heat, flame or smoke source up to the
detectors.

(b)

Switch system back to ‘normal’ and check that all equipment is in the correct
designated mode.

(c)

Check that appropriate indicating lights signify normal operation.

B9.2 Level 2 The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the
following which should be checked during automatic activation of fire/smoke conditions:
(a)

Each item of equipment and any associated indicators have operated correctly and
that fans are running or are shut down in accordance with the correct operational
sequence for the air-handling system(s) concerned.

(b)

Motorized outside-air, recycle-air, air-control and spill-air dampers and their
associated motors are operating correctly.

(c)

Operation of the manual switch provided for fire brigade personnel de-energizes
supply-air fans.

(d)

The system performance criteria of zone smoke control systems should be verified
between each zone.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

NOTES:
1

Where there have been no changes to the building structure, internal layout and air-handling
system in the period since the last test, approval may be given to testing less than all zones.
Where approval is given to testing a proportion of zones a representative number of zones
should be tested. Test zones should be selected at the extremes of the system performance
criteria.

2

When testing is carried out on a proportional number of zones basis it is recommended that
the same zones be selected and tested each time.

3

The purpose of an automatic testing routine is to check the functioning of the air-handling
changeover system by the activation of a field device. It is recommended practice in this
case to bring a heat, flame or smoke source to the detector or to flow water and reduce
pressure to operate flow/pressure switches.

4

Some buildings may have standby power generation provisions which are required to
operate fire and smoke control equipment and controls in the event of a normal power
failure. Level 2 routine maintenance should therefore also include testing under standby
power to verify fire mode performance.

B9.3

Level 3

B9.4 Level 4
following:

Not applicable.
The action items required for a Level 4 routine should include the

(a)

Adjust or repair as necessary.

(b)

Carry out the Level 2 routines.

B1 0 FI R E - I SO LA TE D E SC A P E
PRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS
B10.1 Level 1
following:

R OU TE S

PR OT EC TE D

BY

A IR -

The action items required for a Level 1 routine should include the

(a)

Simulate initiation of operation of all systems.

(b)

While all air-pressurization systems are operating, check the following for each
system:
(i)

Excessive noise. (Refer AS 1668.1.)

(ii)

Ease of opening doors.
COPYRIGHT


17

(iii)

AS 1851.6 — 1997

Movement of air from each pressurized area through a selected open door.

NOTES:
1 In order to assess the performance of the system, it is recommended that the same door
be used every time.
2 The use of an elementary sensing device, e.g. ribbon, is sufficient.

(c)

Switch all systems back to normal.

B10.2 Level 2
following:
(a)

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

(b)

The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the

Check that the fans of all air-pressurization systems start under automatic activation
when—
(i)

the building fire alarm is actuated by the automatic fire sprinkler system of
the building, or by any smoke or thermal alarm group forming part of the
building automatic fire detection system;

(ii)

any recycle-air sensor group, or any supply-air sensor group is actuated; and

(iii)

any recycle-air sensor group and any supply-air sensor group are actuated.

With all air-pressurization and other systems, required to operate in the fire mode,
operating simultaneously, measure and record for each air-pressurization system —
(i)

the average flowrate through a selected open door, when the doors leading
from every stairway to two selected successive storeys and the main
discharge doors are fully open simultaneously;
NOTE: In order to assess the performance of the system, it is recommended that the
same door and the same measuring technique be used every time.

(c)

(ii)

the force required to open each door;

(iii)

the time taken for conditions found in Items (i) and (ii) above to be restored
after opening and reclosing up to three doors; and

(iv)

the noise level at doorways identified as subject to the highest noise level, at
the relevant points of entry into fire-isolated escape routes, with the
associated door open.

Check that when the smoke sensor group of any air-pressurization system is
automatically actuated, the associated pressurization fan is shut down.
NOTE: Any fan starting and stopping checks under Items (a) and (b) above should be
carried out in such a manner as will avoid overheating of motors due to excessively frequent
starts.

(d)

Check that operation of the manual switch provided for fire brigade personnel
de-energizes fans supplying air to the pressurized fire-isolated escape routes.

B10.3 Level 3
following:
(a)

The action items required for a Level 3 routine should include the

Simulate activation of all air-pressurization and other systems required to operate in
the fire mode. When operating simultaneously, measure and record the following for
every door:
(i)

Ambient noise level.

(ii)

Door opening force.

(iii)

Air velocity through door.

NOTES:
1 Where there have been no changes to the building structure, internal layout and airhandling system in the period since the last test, approval may be given to testing less
COPYRIGHT


AS 1851.6 — 1997

18

than all doors. Where approval is given to testing a proportion of doors a representative
number of doors should be tested. Test doors should be selected at the extremes of the
system performance criteria i.e. high noise level, high opening force and low air velocity.
2 When testing is carried out on a proportional number of doors basis it is recommended
that the same doors be selected and tested each time.

(b)

With all air-pressurization and other systems operating simultaneously, check that
any specific air relief is fully operational and enables the required air flow from
pressurized areas to be sustained.

B10.4 Level 4 Repair or replace any items not capable of being adjusted for
satisfactory performance.
B11
B11.1

OUTDOOR AIR INTAKES
Level 1

B11.2 Level 2
following:

Not applicable.
The action items required for a Level 2 routine should include the

Remove any combustible material from the vicinity of the intakes.

(b)

Check intake louvres for corrosion and damage.

(c)

Check and clean insect screens, replace if damaged.

Licensed to LUU MINH LUAN on 25 Feb 2002. Single user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

(a)

COPYRIGHT