Smoke Guard Solutions vs. Opaque Track-Based Curtains

Product Characteristic

Smoke Guard

Track-Based Competitors

Side Guides

• Magnetic connection has minimal impact on design and no impact on elevator
• Rewind switch mounted on both sides of screen

• Side guide track system requires architect and contractor to integrate the track into the finish

System Projections

• Imperceptible below the elevator door head
• Ideal for Class A office space

• Side guide & housing is a surface mounted armature
• Adequate for Class C office space

Egress

• Primary : 4” square rewind switch on both sides of the curtain
• Secondary: Manually pushing screen open with less than 15 pounds of force
• Transparent systems reduced sense of panic

• Rewind switch wired into elevator frame, potentially voiding elevator manufacturer’s warranty
• ADA compliance of button is questionable
• Opaque curtain could lead to feeling of entrapment if deployed position
• Manual egress achieved by lifting curtain from bottom bar with grab straps

Limitations

• Tested & certified for installation up to 12’ AFF or 8’ wide

• Not certified for installation higher that 9’-6” AFF or 6’-6” wide
• 2013 Elevator Code prohibits penetration or alteration of the elevator door or frame, unless that system is tested in its entirety with those alterations (ASME A17.1)

Curtain Material

• Transparent curtain system
• Fully compliant with all editions of elevator code
• Emergency responders can immediately assess the situation from the elevator cab without compromising heat and smoke protection
• Entrapment between elevator door and curtain not possible

• Opaque material blocks view and darkens elevator cab
• System violates the latest edition of Elevator Code which requires a “view panel” (ASME A17.1)
• Allows for the risk of entrapment between elevator door and curtain

Cost

• All systems accessible through unit door
• No additional construction costs associated with installation

• Additional electrical components required
• Additional work and detailing required to enclose the system
• More intrusive on design
• Separate control box requiring access pane

Support

• Manufactured in the US
• Warranties are services by local distributors and backed by US manufacturer in Boise, Idaho
• Dedicated distributor network, local hands on accountability

• Manufactured in Europe
• No warranty coverage from the US master distributor, coverage only from manufacturer in Europe
• Distributor network covers only portions of the US