LIFE SAFETY IN BUILDINGS
Tackling a deadly enemy: smoke ventilation with AOV rooflights David Brown of daylighting & ventilation specialist Lareine Engineering, looks at the role of Automatic Opening Vent (AOV) rooflights in today’s Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation Systems – and the factors governing their specification. It’s widely known that the majority of deaths resulting from building fires are caused by inhalation of gas, smoke or toxic fumes. Today’s Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation (SHEV) systems are designed to address this fact, by assisting with the extraction of smoke and fumes from burning buildings. Correctly designed smoke ventilation systems keep escape routes free from smoke and assist fire-fighting operations by creating a smoke free layer. Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs) can play a key role in these systems.
AOV designs A variety of AOV designs are available, AOV rooflights & modular rooflights being a popular choice – combining the ventilation aspect with the provision of natural daylight. Typically, a modular AOV will consist of a base unit with a glazed lid section that is hinged and forced open when
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required, by an actuator linked to separate AOV controls. AOV rooflights are typically installed over atriums, corridors or stairwells and are frequently specified in hospitals, schools, hotels or apartment blocks. Architectural window ventilators and glazed louvre ventilators are available for facade applications. AOV roof escape hatches and other designs which do not feature any element of glazing, are also available for areas where daylighting is not a requirement. Irrespective of design, construction or siting, all AOVs are subject to the same regulatory requirements.
Specifying compliant AOVs When specifying AOVs, it is vital to ensure maximum safety and compliance with Building Regulations. Although standard automated opening rooflights can aid smoke clearance, they should never be used specifically
AOVs are available in a wide range of configurations.
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