Automatic Opening Vents

Smoke inhalation poses a serious risk during a building fire; AOVs help clear the air with automatic opening vents.

Automatic opening vents, otherwise known as AOVs, are triggered by smoke detectors and other prompts to open and ventilate the surrounding area in the event of a fire. This is essential for preventing the dangerous build up of smoke and hot air in your building, especially in escape routes.

Keeping escape routes ventilated means firefighters and occupants are able to use smoke-free egress and ingress points, playing a critical role in the fire escape strategy of your building. Smoke inhalation is one of the greatest dangers to building occupants in the event of a fire, so it’s important to prevent this build up wherever possible.

Oakleigh Contracts are able to supply and install automatic opening vents for multi storey and multi occupancy buildings, based upon the surveys and Fire Risk Assessment undertaken by our team alongside independent fire engineers.

Our team and independent fire engineers are available to ensure the right AOV system is integrated into your building; the vents should be installed in communal stairwells to help keep evacuation routes smoke-free.

 

Our automatic opening vents are designed as roof openings in a number of styles and mechanisms to suit all types of applications. This includes a wide range of materials and finishes for our clients to choose from, including polycarbonate, glass, and insulated aluminium. Determine the look of your vent in order to complement the design of your building overall, whilst we ensure that your system complies with the latest regulations.

Not only do AOVs play an important role in fire safety, but offer increased daylight, roof access and ventilation on a daily basis, bringing natural light and fresh air into your building.

How does an automatic opening vent work?

Automatic opening vents need to be triggered by an automatic or manual trigger in order to open and ventilate the area. These triggers include smoke detectors, emergency glass break, fireman’s override switches, manual call points and manual controls. AOVs should be kept in good working condition with bi-annual servicing as part of their ongoing maintenance.

Where should automatic opening vents be placed?

According to regulation, automatic opening vents should be installed at the highest point in communal stairwells, as this area provides an evacuation route for multi storey buildings. The vents are also commonly placed in corridors and facades.

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