How do smoke curtains work?

A smoke curtain can be a significant part of any fire protection plan. It can help you limit the spread of a fire and direct it toward a designated exit route.

Placement of smoke curtains in a building

Whether you’re building a high-rise or a retail complex, the placement of smoke curtains in a building is an important consideration. They’re simple to install and help ensure the safety of your occupants. These fire-resistant devices also prevent the spread of hot, toxic smoke.

There are two main types of smoke curtains. One is vertical, which is typically used to seal off doorways. The other is horizontal, designed to block smoke’s upward and downward movement.

Elevator smoke curtains are housed inside the ceiling above the elevator shaft. They provide a complete seal to prevent smoke from entering the shaft and traveling up to the floors above. They can be integrated with a fire-rated elevator door for additional protection.

Draft curtains are usually placed near exhaust vents. They’re most commonly found in warehouses and manufacturing facilities. They’re an excellent solution for open stairways and warehouse storage areas. They’re also a good option for escalators.

If you’re building an expansive high-rise, consider the placement of smoke curtains. They’re especially helpful in atriums, which often extend several stories above the floor.

Before placing smoke curtains in a building, ensure all framing and electrical work are finished. You should also make sure your drywall is ready to go. After the installation, you will need to perform an annual inspection to ensure that the curtain is functioning correctly.

It’s also important to remember that smoke and fire curtains can be integrated into your building’s design. They can be part of an overall fire protection system and can even be connected to a fire detection system.

Limiting the spread of fire

Using smoke curtains to limit the spread of fire in a building can reduce the amount of property damage and increase the safety of occupants. When choosing a smoke curtain, it is essential to select one that works in conjunction with a fire control system to ensure maximum safety.

When a smoke curtain is used to restrict the spread of fire, it is usually installed above walkways and aisles. Depending on the size of the space, the curtain may be placed in an open position or permanently in place.

In addition to controlling the spread of smoke, the curtain should meet certain aesthetic and code requirements. It includes the use of fabric materials that are durable and strong. The curtain should also have side guides to prevent it from deflection.

Aside from the primary purpose of the smoke curtain, it can also be used to create a smoke reservoir. In addition, it can be used to create an escape route for occupants.

To effectively use the smoke curtain, the curtain must be adequately maintained and tested. It should also be CE marked to a European standard.

During a fire, thick black smoke can block people’s vision and make it difficult to find an escape route. If there is no means of escaping, choking on poisonous fumes can lead to unconsciousness. If the person is unable to breathe, they can die.

Maintenance

Performing smoke curtain maintenance is essential to ensure the product’s longevity. If the curtains are not serviced regularly, they can fail and cause serious injury or death. Having them properly maintained is also an effective way to prevent other problems.

Smoke curtains have a life expectancy of about 15-20 years. If not maintained properly, they may violate fire regulations and pose a risk to building occupants. Using a maintenance schedule will help you keep them in good working order and ensure they meet the standards set by the manufacturer.

When cleaning smoke curtains, it is recommended that you use a soft bristle brush or a very soft cloth or consult sgspecialties.com/blog/how-do-smoke-curtains-work. You should avoid scrubbing them with water or other abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the film coating.

Aside from routine cleaning, you should perform annual inspections to check that your barrier assemblies are functioning correctly. These tests are designed to detect critical wear and tear. If the test results indicate a problem, you should act immediately.

Aside from regular testing, you should also conduct monthly checks on the escape route to ensure it is clear and free of obstructions. It is particularly true if you have a self-closing device. If your smoke curtain is not equipped with an obstruction warning system, it is advisable to carry out a daily check.

Whether doing the maintenance yourself or calling in a professional, you must be prepared to record all activities performed. These records should include when the curtains were last cleaned, any changes to their performance, and when any maintenance was completed.

It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when performing smoke curtain maintenance. If you need help with how to do this, contact your smoke management system manufacturer for advice. They will be able to provide you with a maintenance schedule and give you training on how to perform your checks.