- Smoke Hazard Management
The term smoke hazard management refers to the strategies, systems, and practices implemented to control and mitigate the risks posed by heat and smoke in the event of a fire. This includes ensuring clear evacuation routes, maintaining air quality, and preventing the spread of smoke (and heat) to non-affected areas or compartments.
Effective smoke hazard management involves:
Smoke Control Systems:
Mechanical and natural ventilation systems designed to extract smoke from buildings and keep escape routes clear.
Pressurization Systems:
Systems that maintain higher air pressure in escape routes like stairwells to prevent smoke ingress (also called stairwell pressurisation systems).
Smoke Barriers and Curtains:
Physical barriers and intumescent seals and materials that contain smoke to specific areas, preventing its spread.
Automatic Fire Detection and Alarms:
Early detection of smoke through sensors and alarms to prompt timely evacuation and response.
Routine Servicing, Maintenance and Testing:
Routine servicing, maintenance and testing of heat and smoke control measures to ensure they function correctly in an emergency​​​​​​.