The Purpose of Smoke Control in Atrium Spaces

When dealing with a large building, atrium spaces can be quite tricky when it comes to building codes. Because of the wide open nature of an atrium, controlling smoke and fire presents a real dilemma. However, in order to allow time for occupants to evacuate safely in the event of an emergency, a smoke management systems must be implemented.

When it comes to designing a smoke control system, size matters. The size of the atrium, that is. Depending on the height and capacity of a building’s atrium, there are variety of options a contractor or architect can choose. The first option is a passive system. A passive system merely seeks to section off the areas affected by smoke or fire to allow for effective evacuation. These barriers typically come in the form of fire doors or curtains.

If more power is what you are looking for, an active smoke management system takes a passive systems and adds fans and/or exhaust systems to pump smoke away from occupants. An active system allows for additional evacuation time for occupants and can even aid emergency crews.

Whether you are looking for active or passive smoke control, Smoke Guard has the barriers you need to get started. From flexible fire-rated curtains to horizontally-deployable atrium barriers, we have the solutions you need to maintain your design aesthetics while keeping your occupants safe. For more information on the custom solution you need, call us today.