AOV systems or Automatic Opening Vents are a crucial element of fire safety and prevention that are used in different properties of various types, size and industry.
When it comes to creating a robust fire safety strategy, AOVs play a critical role and can literally mean the difference between life and death.
Here we discuss exactly what AOV systems are, why they are so important, how they work and the benefits of installing them in your property.
What is an AOV System?
People that own, manage or are responsible for a – business property, commercial premises, HMO or apartment blocks are required to provide clear and safe exit if a fire occurs.
An AOV system is designed to automatically open windows, doors and vents to help clear and extract smoke, fumes, heat and toxins in the event of a building fire. This works to ensure that escape routes are visible and provides breathable air for occupants to evacuate safely and emergency services to enter the premises.
How does an Automatic Opening Vent System work?
The way that an AOV system works can depend on the type, size, complexity and layout of a property but the way they are designed tends to be the same.
- Sensors such as smoke and heat detectors or manual call points throughout the property are used to detect early signs of fire and smoke.
- The central control panel receives the signals from the sensors and automatically opens the necessary windows, vents and doors.
- Smoke, heat, toxins and fumes are forced out of the openings and fresh, cool air pushed in.
- With the proper ventilation of key areas such as stairwells, corridors and lobbies, a smoke free layer is created that increases visibility and preserve oxygen so that escape routes are kept clear for the safe evacuation of occupants.
Why are AOV systems so important?
When people think of a building fire they tend to focus on the flames and the fire itself being the main source of danger but it is actually smoke inhalation that is the biggest cause of fatalities in fires.
In the event of a fire, smoke can accumulate quickly and become dense, making it almost impossible for those inside to see or breath properly, thus making safe evacuation very difficult.
Here are just some of the ways that AOVs help to protect your property, its contents and make it safe for occupants.
- Clears smoke for safe passage
The primary function of an AOV system is to open windows and vents in the event of a fire so that smoke, heat and fumes can flow out of the building and fresh air can get in. In doing so, this draws smoke and hazardous fumes away from the escape routes and communal areas such as hallways, stairwells and lobbies, providing better visibility and breathable air. This makes it much easier, safer and quicker for occupants to exit the building and greatly reduces the chances of smoke inhalation, injury and harm.
- Emergency response
Keeping more of the building and the exit routes clear of smoke helps to aid the emergency services. Not only do they have less people to rescue as they are more likely to make it out safely by themselves but visibility and breathable air makes it faster and easier to locate and tackle the source of the blaze.
- Reduces the risk of a flashover
A flashover can happen when a fire reaches a critical temperature and ignites nearby combustible materials, rapidly intensifying the heat and smoke, making the fire larger and even harder to get under control. By containing the area and restricting air flow and oxygen supply, AOVs work to help to delay and prevent flashovers.
- Less Damage
Fire can destroy everything in its path from buildings, equipment and stock to assets, personal belongings and inventory. Because of the reduction in heat and smoke, AOVs can help to limit the amount of damage to the building and its contents.