According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), most fire deaths are the result of smoke inhalation rather than burns. Death certificates show a 2-to-1 ratio of smoke inhalation to burns for fire deaths overall. During the infamous 1980 MGM hotel fire in Las Vegas, nearly all of the 85 victims died from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Hands-on inspections by ICB-certified technicians have uncovered failure rates of up to 60% for smoke dampers in some existing buildings. While sprinklers can help control the spread of fire, only properly functioning smoke dampers keep smoke, carbon monoxide and other toxins safely confined to smaller spaces.

According to NFPA 92 – Standard for Smoke Control Systems, “Operating controls of the HVAC system shall be designed or modified to provide the smoke control mode with the highest priority over all other control modes.” ICB-certified HVAC fire and smoke damper professionals possess the knowledge and skills required to inspect, test and repair fire and smoke dampers according to NFPA Codes and Standards.

HVAC fire life safety initiatives and programs need the support and advocacy of our public officials to succeed.