We’re thrilled to announce the release of the Smoke Control Association (SCA) Guide for Controls, a groundbreaking resource that sets a new standard for the industry. This pivotal guide, developed over three years, was spearheaded by our very own Simon Sheldon, who led the working group with exceptional commitment and expertise.
Why it matters:
This guide addresses critical challenges in the application and use of manual controls, an area that has long been a source of difficulties for FDS, our customers, and approval authorities. These updates provide much-needed clarity and introduce significant improvements that simplify processes while ensuring compliance.
The guide has received notable endorsements from key stakeholders, including the London Fire Brigade (LFB) and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), both of whom have demonstrated their support by contributing a foreword.
What’s in it for the Industry?
- Clarity and Consistency: The guide simplifies the complexities of control systems, making it easier for professionals to navigate.
- Enhanced Safety Standards: By addressing longstanding issues, the new guidance elevates safety across smoke and heat control systems.
- Streamlined Approvals: These changes aim to reduce friction between stakeholders, improving outcomes for all parties involved.
What does the guide contain?
Design Principles
The guide outlines best practices for designing electrical control systems that effectively manage smoke and heat ventilation. It emphasizes the importance of robust designs that ensure reliability during fire emergencies.
Manual Controls
One of the key focuses of the guide is addressing the challenges associated with manual controls. It provides updated requirements and clear instructions on their application, aiming to resolve ambiguities that have caused issues with customers and approval authorities in the past.
Compliance with Standards
The guidance aligns with relevant British and European standards, ensuring that systems meet legal and regulatory requirements. It serves as a bridge between these standards and practical implementation.
Installation Guidelines
Detailed recommendations for the proper installation of electrical control equipment are provided, helping to ensure that systems function as intended in critical situations.
Maintenance and Testing Protocols
The guide includes protocols for routine maintenance and testing, ensuring the long-term reliability and effectiveness of the systems.
Safety Enhancements
The guide emphasizes the importance of safety, incorporating lessons learned from real-world applications to mitigate risks and improve performance.
Stakeholder Collaboration
The document reflects collaboration with key industry bodies, including endorsements from the London Fire Brigade (LFB) and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC). Their forewords emphasize the guide’s importance for achieving consistent safety practices.
Addressing Variability in Systems
It tackles inconsistencies in how control systems are implemented across projects, providing clarity that helps streamline approvals and fosters greater confidence among stakeholders.
Technical Specifications and Examples
The guide includes technical details and practical examples, offering users a clear understanding of how to implement its recommendations effectively.
This guidance is an invaluable tool for engineers, designers, contractors, and approval authorities, ensuring that smoke and heat control systems are safe, reliable, and compliant with current standards. By addressing longstanding challenges and ambiguities, it sets a new benchmark for excellence in the field.
We couldn’t be prouder of Simon’s leadership in creating this transformative resource, and we’re excited to see how it will shape the future of the industry.
Explore the guide and see what’s new: https://www.smokecontrol.org.uk/resources
