Natural Smoke Ventilation Systems
The Main Purpose of the System.
Natural Smoke Ventilation Systems from FDS FireSmart are a code compliant passive ventilation solution that are assisted by thermal buoyancy and stack effect.
One
In the event of a fire, smoke detectors will activate the natural smoke ventilation system.
Two
The venting systems are designed to create natural ventilation to the common corridor on the effected fire floor.
Three
The effect of the natural air flow allows smoke to exit from the building and exhaust out to the atmosphere.
Four
Offering a safe means of escape for occupants, providing visibility and access for the fire fighters.
System Overview
Approved Document B: Fire Safety of the Building Regulations provides guidance on choosing the most appropriate system based on several key factors. This includes the height of the building, internal layout of the property and the distance of each dwelling from the staircase for evacuation.
Building Height
There is no limit to building height for a 1.5m2 natural smoke shaft, however, for a naturally ventilated corridor that is vented by a 1.5m2 AOV, the maximum building height is 30m.
Space
The requirement for a natural system is either a 1.5m2 smoke shaft where the corridor is land locked or alternatively a 1.5m2 AOV to the façade.
Aesthetic
Sympathetic to the Architects vision.
Travel Distance
NSVS is a suitable option when there is travel distances of 7.5m or below in un-sprinklered buildings or 15m in sprinkled buildings.
Wind Conditions
If the building is subject to turbulent wind conditions, an NSVS would not be the best solution. MSVS’ are not affected by wind conditions and would therefore be more suitable.
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Technical Data
NSVS are a code compliant solution that provides a reliable and cost-effective method of meeting the requirements of Approved Document B.
Shaft Size
A minimum cross-sectional area of 1.5m2 is required.
Shaft Width
A minimum dimension of 0.85m is required.
Shaft Height
The shaft must extend 2.5m above the highest ceiling served by the shaft and terminate at least 0.5m above the surrounding structure.
Shaft Damper Size
A minimum free area of 1.0m2 is required for openings into the shaft. BS EN 12101-8 certified dampers are required for use in the shaft.
Head of Stair Vent
The free area of the opening at the head of the shaft should be a minimum of 1.0m2.
AOV
For AOV’s a 1.5m2 free area is required. They must also be certified and certificated to BS EN 12101-2.
Guidance Legislation
SCA Guide
Common Escape Routes in Apartments - Jul 20
SCA White Paper
Specification of Products and Systems for Smoke Shafts
Approved Document B
Fire Safety Approved B Vol 1: Dwellings
BS EN 12101-8:2011
Smoke and Heat Control Systems
Relevant Case Studies
FDS Install Smoke Ventilation System at Cheshunt Lakeside 1a
FDS has recently completed works at Cheshunt Lakeside 1a for M Toner Plumbing & Heating Ltd. FDS was appointed as the smoke venting contractor to
FDS Install Smoke Ventilation System at Greenwich Millennium Village
FDS has recently worked alongside long time client, Kane Group to design, install and commission both a Smoke Ventilation System and Corridor Environmental System at
Tesco Contract Win for FDS
Tesco Contract Win for FDS FDS has won the fire safety design and installation contract for the new Tesco mixed-use scheme in Woolwich. The large-scale,
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