Test and commission mechanical fire protection systems

This standard is aimed at those who install mechanical fire protection systems, and sets out the skills, knowledge and understanding for you to test and commission mechanical fire protection systems. This will involve you planning for the work and carrying out final testing before commissioning the installation of the system.

*P1. * check that you have the information that you need to commission the   system

P2.* * establish appropriate communication arrangements with client representatives and third parties

P3.* * check the onward signals to integrated systems can be verified **

P4.* * prepare plans of action for commissioning mechanical fire protection systems that comply with performance requirements, relevant legislation and regulations; industry standard guidelines; your organisation's quality management procedures and health and safety codes of practice  

P5.* * check that required tools, materials and components are available, in good working order and comply with relevant health and safety requirements

P6.* * check that measuring apparatus is calibrated and in working order

P7.* * carry out static tests in accordance with performance requirements for the system and the relevant standard

P8.* *  record actions you take to remedy any identified discrepancies during initial testing

P9.* * record the results of all final tests in a format consistent with performance requirements for the system and the relevant standard

P10.* * complete, collate and issue all system installation documents, including operation and maintenance manuals

P11.* * take action to minimise potential disruption to the clients' and any  third party normal work activities

P12.* * commission the system in line with performance requirements and sequence of operation

P13.* * provide the designated responsible person with a demonstration **of how the installed system works

P14.* * check that sites are clear of tools, components, waste and surplus materials when systems are handed over to clients

P15.* * record test results as you work using approved recording methods and formats

P16.  carry out proving tests in accordance with specified requirements

P17.* * take action to remedy situations where systems or materials do not meet their operational requirement

P18.* * provide test results in the approved format to the relevant person, within agreed timescales

P19.* * comply with health and safety requirements whilst testing mechanical fire protection systems

P20. * *obtain and provide installation certification information

*K1. * what initial and final tests are required to be carried out and who they are for

K2. why you may need to identify the presence of an electrical supply, and how it can be isolated safely

K3.* * the procedure for identifying whether any specialist testing of specific system components is required **

K4.* * the capabilities and limitation of the tools and system components that you intend to use, including the manufacturer's specification or data sheets

K5.* * the tools you must use and why it is important to use the correct tools and system components

K6.* * the procedure to check test and measuring apparatus is  in working order and calibrated where necessary and why it is important to do this

K7.* * the procedures to follow in order to set up safe and secure work areas, including for components and tools and why it is important to do this

K8.  how to communicate effectively with clients and any third parties, including emergency services before and during commission operations in order to maintain their goodwill

K9.* * the purpose and correct use of relevant testing and measuring apparatus * *

K10.* * the limits of your authority and responsibility in taking direct action to deal with materials and components that do not meet their operational requirement

K11.* * the procedure for recording accurate details of test results, how to interpret test results and make them available to the relevant person and why this is important

K12.* * how to discuss and negotiate testing arrangements with clients and third parties

K13.* * what information you need to confirm that systems are ready to be commissioned, and from where you obtain this information

K14.* * the principles of operation of the system

K15.* * how to confirm that the installation meets the required operational specification

K16.* * the processes and procedures required to enable the system to be operational, and why you must apply them, including commissioning documents

K17.* * what actions you can take to minimise disruption to clients and third parties

K18.* * what action you can take to deal with problems that arise during commissioning operations

K19.* * current relevant legislation and regulations; industry standard guidelines; your organisation's quality management procedures and health and safety codes of practice relating to the commissioning, operating and testing of installed systems

K20.* * the relationship between types of fire and appropriate extinguishing mediums

K21.* * characteristics of different environments to which systems are installed **

K22.* * the requirements of different fire certification bodies and third-party certifications

mechanical fire protection system: a non-electrical device used for fire protection such as, sprinklers; gas systems; water mist and powder; foam and chemical systems; dry and wet risers; fire mains.

performance requirements: operation of the mechanical fire protection system with due regard to the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines

system installation documents: any relevant information provided to the client which specifies the type of mechanical fire protection system, the standard to which it was installed or serviced and any testing information

designated responsible person: could include, but not limited to, duty holder; building management; fire marshal/warden; maintenance engineer