Smoke Control
Systems.

Comprehensive Smoke Control Systems

Ensuring Safe Escape Routes and Effective Firefighting in Residential Buildings

Fire Systems Ltd specialises in designing, installing, testing, and maintaining smoke control systems, as required by Approved Document B (ADB), to protect communal areas such as corridors and stairwells in apartment buildings. Smoke control systems, including Automatic Open Vents (AOV) and smoke ventilation systems, are crucial for making residential buildings as safe as possible. These systems ensure that residents can escape safely if necessary and that the fire and rescue service can effectively fight the fire.

The design and performance criteria for smoke control systems vary depending on the building layout. However, the primary goal remains the same: to keep smoke and hot gases out of corridors and stairwells. Effective smoke control is vital for reducing fatalities caused by smoke inhalation, which is the leading cause of death in residential fires.

We offer several types of smoke control measures, including Natural Smoke Control Systems that utilise Automatic Open Vents (AOV) to allow smoke to escape naturally, Mechanical Forced Air Ventilation Systems that use fans to force air through the building and remove smoke and hot gases, and Pressurisation Smoke Control Systems that maintain a higher air pressure in stairwells and corridors to prevent smoke from entering.

Evidence shows that the majority of fatalities in residential fires are due to smoke inhalation rather than heat. This risk is significantly higher in high-rise buildings. The primary protection areas are corridors and stairwells, with stairwells being particularly crucial as they serve as the escape route for all occupants and the entry and exit route for fire and rescue services. Our primary objective is to keep smoke out of stairwells. Therefore, it is essential that no apartment door is near the stairwell to ensure a clear and safe escape route.

For more information or to discuss your specific smoke control needs, please contact Fire Systems Ltd. We are here to ensure your building meets the necessary safety standards and provides a safe environment for all occupants.

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Ready to enhance your fire safety with a reliable and experienced partner? Whether you need a new fire alarm system, maintenance, or repair services, we're here to help. Contact Fire Systems Ltd today to discuss your specific needs and get a tailored solution.
History of Smoke Control Systems

From Simple Ventilation to Advanced Life Safety Solutions.

Fire Systems Ltd specialises in designing, installing, testing, and maintaining smoke control systems, as required by Approved Document B (ADB), to protect communal areas such as corridors and stairwells in apartment buildings. Smoke control systems, including Automatic Open Vents (AOV) and smoke ventilation systems, are crucial for making residential buildings as safe as possible. These systems ensure that residents can escape safely if necessary and that the fire and rescue service can effectively fight the fire.

The design and performance criteria for smoke control systems vary depending on the building layout. However, the primary goal remains the same: to keep smoke and hot gases out of corridors and stairwells. Effective smoke control is vital for reducing fatalities caused by smoke inhalation, which is the leading cause of death in residential fires.

We offer several types of smoke control measures, including Natural Smoke Control Systems that utilise Automatic Open Vents (AOV) to allow smoke to escape naturally, Mechanical Forced Air Ventilation Systems that use fans to force air through the building and remove smoke and hot gases, and Pressurisation Smoke Control Systems that maintain a higher air pressure in stairwells and corridors to prevent smoke from entering.

Evidence shows that the majority of fatalities in residential fires are due to smoke inhalation rather than heat. This risk is significantly higher in high-rise buildings.

The primary protection areas are corridors and stairwells, with stairwells being particularly crucial as they serve as the escape route for all occupants and the entry and exit route for fire and rescue services. Our primary objective is to keep smoke out of stairwells. Therefore, it is essential that no apartment door is near the stairwell to ensure a clear and safe escape route.

For more information or to discuss your specific smoke control needs, please contact Fire Systems Ltd. We are here to ensure your building meets the necessary safety standards and provides a safe environment for all occupants.

Automatic Fire Smoke Dampers

In large commercial and industrial buildings, maintaining fire compartmentation is crucial, especially when fire alarms activate. Airflow for heating and ventilation often requires air to travel through fire barriers, which can potentially spread fire and smoke during a fire event.

To address this, smoke dampers are installed within ductwork that passes through fire barriers. These dampers are connected to the fire alarm panel via a smoke damper panel, allowing normal airflow during regular operations and enforcing compartmentation during a fire.

Smoke Vent System Installation

Fire Systems Ltd designs, installs, and commissions smoke vent systems. In a project for NG Bailey Rail, we installed two twelve-way Kentec smoke damper panels connected to eighteen “Actionair” smoke fire dampers. These dampers, fitted with micro switches to indicate ‘open’ and ‘closed’ positions, are wired with fire-rated FP Plus cables for enhanced safety, and further protected within galvanised trunking and tube.

The “Action Air” dampers close within 140 seconds upon fire alarm activation or power loss, preventing smoke and fire from spreading between compartments. Detectors installed in ceiling voids and at ceiling levels ensure timely activation of these dampers.

Testing of Smoke Vent Systems

During testing, dampers in the open position are indicated by green LEDs on the damper panel. Upon fire alarm activation, the LEDs turn red as the dampers close within 140 seconds. If a damper fails to close in time, the damper panel sends a fault signal to the fire alarm panel. These dampers operate on a ‘fail safe’ mechanism, closing automatically upon losing their 24V supply.

For more information on smoke vent systems or to arrange fire alarm servicing, contact us at 020 8541 5646 or visit www.firesystems.co.uk and complete our contact form.

Automatic Fire Smoke Dampers

In large commercial and industrial buildings, maintaining fire compartmentation is crucial, especially when fire alarms activate. Airflow for heating and ventilation often requires air to travel through fire barriers, which can potentially spread fire and smoke during a fire event.

To address this, smoke dampers are installed within ductwork that passes through fire barriers. These dampers are connected to the fire alarm panel via a smoke damper panel, allowing normal airflow during regular operations and enforcing compartmentation during a fire.

Smoke Vent System Installation

Fire Systems Ltd designs, installs, and commissions smoke vent systems. In a project for NG Bailey Rail, we installed two twelve-way Kentec smoke damper panels connected to eighteen “Actionair” smoke fire dampers. These dampers, fitted with micro switches to indicate ‘open’ and ‘closed’ positions, are wired with fire-rated FP Plus cables for enhanced safety, and further protected within galvanised trunking and tube.

The “Action Air” dampers close within 140 seconds upon fire alarm activation or power loss, preventing smoke and fire from spreading between compartments. Detectors installed in ceiling voids and at ceiling levels ensure timely activation of these dampers.

Testing of Smoke Vent Systems

During testing, dampers in the open position are indicated by green LEDs on the damper panel. Upon fire alarm activation, the LEDs turn red as the dampers close within 140 seconds. If a damper fails to close in time, the damper panel sends a fault signal to the fire alarm panel. These dampers operate on a ‘fail safe’ mechanism, closing automatically upon losing their 24V supply.

For more information on smoke vent systems or to arrange fire alarm servicing, contact us at 020 8541 5646 or visit www.firesystems.co.uk and complete our contact form.

Have Questions?

Get In Touch with Fire Systems Ltd

For inquiries about our products or services...

    What is a fire alarm system?

    A fire alarm system is designed to detect fire and provide early warning to occupants, allowing for safe evacuation and prompt action to control the fire. Our systems include various detection and alert mechanisms to suit different environments.

    Can I schedule a visit to your office? How do I get there?

    Yes, you can visit our office for a consultation. We are located at 123 Safety Street, London, UK. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.

    What are your main products and services?

    We specialise in fire alarm systems, safety equipment, automatic opening vents (AOV), and advanced fire safety technology. Our services include installation, maintenance, and compliance testing.

    What is an Automatic Opening Vent (AOV)?

    An AOV system provides smoke ventilation in the event of a fire, helping to clear smoke from escape routes and making it easier for occupants to evacuate and for firefighters to enter.

    How can I ensure my fire protection systems comply with regulations?

    We provide comprehensive services to ensure your fire protection systems comply with all relevant fire safety regulations. Our team conducts thorough inspections, maintenance, and certifications to keep your systems up-to-date and compliant.