AOV issue

[Hyperion]

Hi, 

4 storey building (G-3rd floor), single stair way with lobby protection to flats on each floor. The AOV on the third floor roof is within the protected lobby. Surely the FD30s door negates the AOV from clearing smoke from the stairs? Would you recommend removing the door? Thanks in advance. 

[Tom Sutton]

The AOV within the protected lobby is for clearing the smoke from the lobby if that is the floor where the fire is located, the staircase will have its own ventilation. Check out Webinar Calendar (coltinfo.co.uk) they have good webinars

 

[AnthonyB]

Any residential smoke control should follow these principles http://www.smoke-vent.co.uk/documents/SCA Guidance notes rev 3 (Jan 2020).pdf

[Hyperion]

Thanks for the replies. Should’ve pointed out the stairs are enclosed with no OV’s. Ventilation of the stairs would only be possible by FRS intervention by PPV and wedging the top floor door with AOV open.  Just seems odd it was installed for a lobby the area of 3m x 1.5m and not the stairs where all flat occupants would benefit from.   

[Tom Sutton]

Check out https://www.coltinfo.co.uk/files/pdf/UK/Smoke control in apartments and fire fighting shafts.pdf.

[Hyperion]

Thanks, appreciate the replies. 

[Guest AOV accessibility children]

Hi, I have two large AOV vents on the roof garden of my apartment. One goes to the stairwell two stories down and one goes to the basement car park 7 stories down. It is a new build and I haven’t moved in yet. I have major safety concerns with the AOV’s as they are easily accessible by my children and they have a small grill but it doesn’t look to be weight bearing no they would fit through the sides regardless. I wasn’t aware that this would be on my property when I bought off the plan and I can’t sleep at night worrying about them. Please help!

[AnthonyB]

The vents are required - but they should be safe from someone falling through - sounds like they should be fenced off. Installation may be in breach of H&S legislation as oppose to fire safety, you should enquire with the HSE or Local Authority Environmental Health.