In 2021 the University of Maryland released a report on the Reliability of Fire Dampers, Smoke Dampers and Smoke Control Systems.
- 170,354 Dampers Reviewed
- 53% of dampers in existing buildings needed repairs.
- 740 Smoke Control System Projects Reviewed
- 41% of existing buildings stairwells required repairs or adjustments.
Dr. James Milke, professor and chair of the Department of Fire Protection Engineering, and Ph.D. candidate Robert Ayoub conducted the study not just to evaluate the reliability of remote testing, but also to create awareness of the importance of periodic inspection of fire dampers, smoke dampers and smoke control systems.
