The importance of an Automatic Opening Vent (AOV)

What is an automatic smoke vent?

An automatic smoke vent or Automatic Opening Vent (AOV) is a smoke control solution that automatically opens vents to release smoke and heat in the event of a fire.

The various names reflect the different technical focuses, regional standards, and compliance frameworks.

How does an AOV system work?

When smoke is detected, vents are automatically activated with no need for human intervention. This is a safety feature in itself, given that smoke can seriously hinder visibility, making escape routes dangerous or even unusable (think staircases). A lack of visibility can also contribute to the spread of fire, where firefighters are slowed down in their pursuit to tackle flames.

Smoke contains toxic gases such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, which can cause unconsciousness and death within minutes. According to IRS records, in the year ending March 2024, gas or smoke was the most common single cause of death for fire-related fatalities, claiming the lives of 74 people.

As well as slowing the spread of fire that smoke can indirectly contribute to by carrying flammable gases that can ignite elsewhere, AOVs buy critical time for people inside who can quickly become disoriented by exposure to these toxic gases.

Aside from the health risks to people, smoke can seriously damage and even destroy buildings, causing staining, corrosion, and lingering odours. AOV systems can significantly reduce or prevent this.

Who can benefit from an automatic smoke ventilation system?

In smaller buildings, smoke can often be managed with simpler systems or natural ventilation, but in bigger buildings, the controlled and rapid smoke extraction that AOVs provide is vital for effective fire safety.

Smoke spreads faster than fire, where it’s made up of hot gases and tiny particles that are much lighter than solid flames. Large structures like care homes, multi-storey residential buildings, commercial offices, hospitals, warehouses, and public spaces, e.g., theatres, sports arenas, and shopping centres, benefit particularly from having an AOV system in place. The ventilation helps keep stairwells and corridors clear for a safer exit and gives firefighters better visibility to control the fire.

Installing an automatic smoke ventilation system

If you’re considering getting a smoke ventilation system installed, there are a few things to consider.

Compliance with regulations

Ensure that the system meets local fire safety standards and building regulations, such as the UK’s Approved Document B and the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order.

Compatibility with other safety systems

Consider systems that can connect with fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency lighting for an impactful and coordinated response.

Choose a certified provider

This is perhaps the most important consideration. Use experienced, qualified installers and arrange for regular maintenance and testing to keep the system operational. Many providers also offer a warranty.

At VGI Solutions, we have experienced and reliable engineers who specialise in the installation, repair, service and maintenance of automatic smoke vent systems in commercial or residential buildings.

From new installations to maintaining existing systems, our engineers offer guidance with design and more.

VGI Solutions can install and maintain AOV systems to keep your buildings safe and fully compliant with the current legislation.

Cost

The cost of a life is unquantifiable, but the cost of installation of an AOV system isn’t. This doesn’t mean all buildings require an AOV system to ensure lives are saved, so if you’re unsure, speak to an expert.