Taking the smart approach to specifying smoke vents
Here, Bilco UK, manufacturer of roof access hatches, smoke vents and roof safety products, shares the main considerations professionals should focus on when specifying NSHEVs.
Natural Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilators (NSHEVs), more commonly known as smoke vents, provide essential ventilation in the event of a building fire.
When a fire ignites in an enclosed space, the smoke rising from the fire gets trapped by the ceiling. It then begins to spread, forming an expanding layer that leaks into any gaps in the floors or walls.
The installation of smoke vents in appropriate locations around a building will protect occupants in the event of a fire by preventing the excessive build-up of smoke and noxious fumes. This subsequently reduces the risk of smoke inhalation, horizontal fire spread and secondary ignitions as the smoke is quickly exhausted, enabling fire-fighters to safely enter the building to tackle the blaze and building occupants to exit quickly.
As a specifier, ensuring the right product is used in the correct context is paramount to not only ensuring it is fit for purpose, but is also compliant with relevant regulations and provides the highest levels of safety.
When specifying a smoke vent for a roof, it should be compliant with the Construction Products Regulation 305/2011, CE-marked with a Declaration of Conformity. It should also be manufactured to meet the demands of Building Regulations, Approved Document B, BS9999 and BS EN12101-2.
Choosing a smoke vent that meets all of these legislations will help to not only achieve compliance, but ensure the operational reliability and performance of the smoke vent throughout its lifetime.
The control of the smoke vent should also be considered, whether this is in the form of a dedicated management system, or a solution integrated into a wider networked fire alarm system.
By installing the smoke vent with the addition of a fixed vertical safety ladder, it can also provide an adequate means of escape from the roof, whilst offering access to contractors for infrequent maintenance.
For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.