Smoke vents: CROSS-UK issues critical Safety Alert
11 Nov 24CROSS-UK has issued a critical Safety Alert highlighting the danger of smoke vents rendered inoperable by building work.
The Alert draws attention to the safety risks associated with preventing the operation of smoke vents, in particular Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs), by construction work on existing buildings.
AOVs are provided as part of a fire safety smoke control system. In the event of a fire, an inoperable smoke vent poses a significant hazard. If smoke cannot be released from the building, it could hamper the escape of occupants and the ability of the fire and rescue service to fight a fire. In many cases, AOVs can be indistinguishable from standard windows. This may lead to their inadvertent obstruction.
As part of its confidential reporting system, CROSS-UK has received several reports of AOVs being made inoperable by building work, including when façade materials are being replaced.
