Safety & Security
Smoke & Fire Protection Feature
Suitable for installation throughout social housing properties, the aim of a smoke vent is to make a dangerous situation safer for all individuals
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. Te 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.
AESTHETIC CONSIDERATIONS While the functionality and quality of the smoke vent will be the primary consideration, aesthetics can also be an important factor. Here a ‘one size fits all approach’ shouldn’t be applied as there are a wide range of elements to choose from to ensure the product is tailored to meet the project’s unique needs. Customisation may include elements such as hardware, paint finishes, curb liners, manual or automatic control units, open-close switches and rain and wind sensors. While a NSHEV plays a pivotal role in fire protection by successfully
exhausting smoke, for projects that require infrequent personnel access to the roof for maintenance, it is worth considering a smoke vent that can also be utilised as a roof access hatch. By installing the smoke vent with the addition of a fixed vertical safety ladder,
it can provide an adequate means of escape from the roof and offer access to contractors for infrequent maintenance.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Combining these functions into a single application, social housing providers also have the opportunity to take the proficiency of the installation even further, by choosing solutions that also act as a rooflight. Tis is particularly beneficial for social housing applications, where the installation provides the opportunity for natural light to enter the interior space, including corridors and stairwells. Tis eliminates the requirements for multiple roof penetration, which
can impact the overall thermal performance of the structure, as a significant proportion of heat is typically lost through the roof. When specifying smoke vents for social housing applications, taking an
alternative approach to specification that minimises roof penetrations, while addressing the individual requirements of each application, will ensure the solution is not only fit for purpose, but compliant with all relevant legislation.
Mark Baird is sales operations manager at Bilco UK 42 | HMMOctober/November 2022 |
www.housingmmonline.co.uk
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