When it comes to building fires, smoke is often the primary killer. Smoke control systems provide protection from smoke, funneling the smoke away from key areas, and keeping building occupants safe from overwhelming smoke inhalation as they escape the building.
Mechanical ventilation systems create small pressure differences to confine smoke to one smoke control zone, thereby leaving other areas with limited smoke involvement. Pressurization is primarily concerned with keeping smoke out of stairwells, to allow occupants to escape safely, and elevator shafts, to prevent smoke from traveling from floor to floor through the shafts, and to allow firefighter to use the elevators to move equipment. Smoke Control can be provided by a dedicated system, or by causing the existing HVAC system to switch to smoke control in the event of a fire.
Like all other components of your fire protection systems, smoke control systems require regular inspection and testing to ensure proper functioning in the event of a fire.
APNA Fire & Electrical provides smoke control systems design, implementation and inspections in Surrey, Vancouver, Richmond, Abbotsford, Burnaby, Ladner and Chilliwack. Call APNA today for a consultation or smoke control system inspection.
