Stairwell pressurization testing
In a fire, the stairs have to stay clear of smoke. We measure the pressure across each stair door and the force it takes to open it, and confirm the system works as designed.
When you need it
- A new high-rise needs its stair pressurization verified before occupancy.
- The building’s integrated fire protection systems are due for periodic testing.
- Doors, fans or controls serving the stairs have been changed.
- Stair doors are hard to open, whistle, or won’t close properly.
What we do
Agree on criteria
We confirm the design pressure differentials, door-opening force limits and test scenarios with the engineer and the authority having jurisdiction.
Prepare
We check fans, dampers and door closers, and coordinate with the fire alarm contractor to trigger the system.
Test
We activate the system and measure the pressure across each stair door, with doors closed and in the specified open positions, and measure door-opening force.
Report
Results are recorded floor by floor, along with the outdoor conditions and building state at the time of the test.
What you receive
- Pressure differential at each stair door, by floor
- Door-opening force measurements
- Test conditions, including weather and building state
- Deficiencies and recommended adjustments
Questions
Why does the pressure vary from floor to floor?
Stack effect, wind and leakage through the building change the pressure at each level, especially in cold weather. That’s why readings are taken on many floors, not just one.
How often does it need to be tested?
Where stair pressurization is integrated with other fire protection systems, CAN/ULC-S1001 calls for testing before occupancy, again one year after the initial test, at least every five years after that, and whenever the integrated systems are modified. Check your provincial code and local fire department for what applies to your building.
What if a stair door is too hard to open?
Too much pressure can make a stair door impossible for some people to open. We measure opening force and flag any door over the design limit, along with the likely cause.
Further reading
- Integrated systems testing and CAN/ULC-S1001
Learn how integrated testing verifies that fire protection, life safety and HVAC systems work together, the role of the integrated testing coordinator, and how to prepare.
- Fire dampers and smoke control under Canadian codes
Learn the difference between fire dampers, smoke dampers and fire stop flaps, where the NBC requires them, how installation affects performance, and what ongoing inspection and testing involves.
- Stairwell pressurization and smoke control systems
Learn why high buildings use stair pressurization and other smoke control measures, how the systems are designed around pressure and door force limits, and how they are tested and kept working.
Related services
Also in life-safety verification: Fire damper verification, Fume hood certification.
Get a quote for stairwell pressurization verification
Tell us about the building and what you need. We’ll be in touch within one hour.