The Smoke Control Association (SCA) has released an updated version of its comprehensive ‘Guidance on Smoke Control to Common Escape Routes in Apartment Buildings’ document.
Previously revised in 2012 and 2015, the well-renowned industry guide was first published in 2010 and was quickly adopted as the default reference document for designers, installers and authorities involved in the provision of life safety systems in high rise buildings.
Included in the newly revised document are a host of original recommendations, updated product standards and a new section on Fire and Rescue Service Intervention.
Preventing the spread of smoke through buildings can ultimately save lives and the primary objective of the smoke ventilation system is to protect the staircase and the common circulation areas. The updated guidance document provides vital in-depth information on requirements relating to the design, installation and testing of smoke control systems, as well as highlighting relevant legislation, standards and codes of practice.
Recognising that the new guide takes firefighting considerations into account when discussing industry best practice, The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has welcomed its introduction and the SCA anticipates that the revised document will make a significant contribution in helping to improve overall understanding of smoke control systems.
David Mowatt, Chairman of the SCA, comments: “Due to the ever-increasing complexity of building design and further design developments in our industry, it was decided that the SCA document needed to be updated to ensure it remained current. The SCA is committed to promoting the highest industry standards and the guide is a reflection of this work - I would like to thank everyone involved in its production and sincerely hope that the industry will continue to view it as an indispensable reference document.”