Smoke vent systems are an essential safety measure designed to protect a building and its occupants in the event of a fire. Regularly servicing and maintaining smoke vents is important because it helps ensure that the vents are in working order and able to do their job properly. By inspecting, cleaning, replacing worn out components, and ensuring proper sealing, smoke vents are kept in good condition, allowing them to effectively protect the building and its occupants in the event of a fire.
Regularly inspect smoke vents for signs of wear, damage, or dirt build-up.
Clean vents regularly to ensure proper air flow and to prevent the build-up of dust and debris.
Replace any worn out or damaged components.
Ensure the vents are properly sealed to prevent water or moisture from entering.
Maintenance of smoke ventilation systems is mandated by British Standard BS 7346-8 which states a minimum of two annual service checks by suitably qualified and trained engineers. The responsible person for the building must ensure that smoke ventilation equipment and devices are maintained to a good working order and are fit for purpose to safeguard the lives of people within the building.
Compliance does not just mean deploying a fire safety contract for a building. Compliance is about meeting statutory regulations and upholding minimum levels of life safety standards. It is the responsibility of the building owner/ manager to ensure that the contractor responsible for maintenance of smoke ventilation systems can evidence compliance to BS 7346-8.
