Smoke Control

In a fire, smoke is the main danger to people: it reduces visibility within minutes, it is toxic and it spreads quickly through corridors, stairways and floors. A smoke control system manages the movement of smoke and removes it from the building, keeping escape routes usable for longer, limiting the spread of heat and protecting the structure and its contents.

Depending on the architecture and use of the building, smoke control can be achieved in different ways, often combined:

• Natural Smoke Ventilation: Uses the natural rise of hot smoke, through smoke vents and windows in the roof or façades, with fresh air inlets at lower levels.
• Mechanical Smoke Extraction: High-temperature extraction fans and ductwork remove the smoke by force, the right solution for basements, car parks and spaces without openings to the outside.
• Pressurisation: Air is supplied to stairways and fire lobbies, creating an overpressure that keeps smoke out of escape routes.

A complete smoke control system combines several devices that work together:

• Smoke and Heat Vents: Automatic roof openings that release accumulated smoke and heat.
• Smoke Extraction Fans: Fans certified to operate at high temperatures for the required time.
• Smoke Control Dampers: Motorised dampers that open or close the ducts according to the affected zone.
• Smoke Curtains: Fixed or automatic barriers that contain the smoke within a zone and stop it from spreading.
• Control Panel: Receives the alarm from the fire detection system and automatically controls vents, fans and dampers, with manual override for firefighters.
• Backup Power Supply: Keeps the system working even if the mains power fails.

Smoke control is triggered automatically by the fire detection panel, which identifies the affected zone and activates only the equipment needed. The system can also be operated manually from dedicated control points, allowing firefighters to manage smoke extraction during their intervention.

In many buildings, Portuguese fire safety regulations (SCIE) require smoke control systems, for example in escape routes, atriums, covered car parks and large commercial and industrial spaces. The equipment must comply with the European EN 12101 series of standards, which sets the requirements for smoke vents, fans, dampers, smoke curtains and pressurisation systems.

We support the whole process, from the assessment of the premises and the fire safety design to installation, testing and handover. Periodic maintenance is essential: we test the opening of vents and dampers, check fans, controls and batteries, and make sure the system is always ready to operate.

A properly designed smoke control system ensures:

• Smoke-free escape routes for longer.
• Greater safety for occupants and emergency teams.
• Less smoke and heat damage to the building and its contents.
• Compliance with fire safety regulations.
• Full integration with fire detection.

Contact us to assess the smoke control needs of your building and receive a proposal tailored to your premises.