Smoke vents

Smoke ventilation systems are a crucial part of any building’s fire safety requirements. In the event of a fire, they route the smoke out of the building to prevent smoke inhalation and minimise the risk of smoke damage. The safest and most advanced type of smoke vents are known as an Automatic Opening Vent (AOV) system, and at A Plus Windows, we work with the leading manufacturer of smoke ventilation products to offer our customers high quality and fully-compliant AOV windows.

Why smoke ventilation matters

Although fire itself can cause serious damage, it’s actually smoke that costs more lives. Breathing in smoke can be fatal because it stops us getting enough oxygen, and because of the carbon monoxide and other deadly fumes that it contains. Even if it doesn’t kill, smoke inhalation can cause irritation and damage to the skin and lungs.

As well as being an immediate health hazard, a smoky building is a dangerous place, because smoke and hot air can combine to cause an explosion.

Smoke vents provide a way for smoke to exit the building quickly and efficiently – essential in order to prevent damage, injury and death. To keep commercial buildings safe, landlords need to know that their smoke ventilation system adheres to and complies with the latest fire safety regulations.

Ensuring a reliable smoke ventilation system

In the event of a fire, smoke is considered a bigger threat than the fire itself, which is why we’re often advised to crawl along the floor below smoke. One of the other biggest threats during a fire is firefighters being unable to access buildings safely and quickly due to any structural damage caused.

So the best and most effective smoke vents will allow the smoke to rise above the building’s designated escape routes. This functionality, provided by advanced AOV systems, offers significantly improved visibility and ventilation for the occupants of the building, as well as giving firefighters quick and easy access to the building. The type of smoke vents you choose can really make a difference, enabling earlier firefighting, better safety and less permanent damage to your facilities or offices.

Choosing the right smoke vents

At its most primitive, a smoke vent could be as simple as a manually-operated window or a skylight. But Automatic Opening Vent systems – integrated windows that open automatically when triggered by heat or smoke and – are far more effective.

At A Plus Windows, we work with SE Controls, the leading manufacturer of smoke ventilation products, to manufacture AOVs to the required standards. Our partners, Silver Group, design and install a wide variety systems, as well as providing ongoing maintenance for all their products. So you can be confident that when you choose AOV windows from A Plus Windows, you are guaranteed a fully-compliant, high quality system that will protect your building and its occupants from the damage that smoke can cause.

Research is important when it comes to fire safety. Find out more about the benefits of AOV windows or contact us to discuss a smoke ventilation system for your building.