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What is an AOV Smoke Vent?
An AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) is part of a smoke ventilation system designed to automatically remove smoke and heat from a building during a fire. This may include roof vents, facade windows, louvres, or smoke control dampers connected to a smoke shaft system. If you would like a more detailed explanation, read our guide on What are AOVs?
AOV ventilation systems are commonly used in stairwells, corridors, smoke shafts, and communal areas to help maintain clearer escape routes and improve visibility during an emergency.
Most AOVs use 24V DC electric actuators controlled by a smoke vent control panel with battery backup. To meet CPR requirements, AOV products should be BS EN 12101 certified and CE marked.
How do AOV Smoke Ventilation Systems Work?
AOV smoke ventilation systems automatically open vents when smoke is detected to help remove smoke from the building and protect escape routes.
A smoke control panel receives a signal from a fire alarm or smoke detector and opens the relevant AOV vents, which may include roof vents, smoke shaft dampers, dampers or automatic opening vent windows.
System designs can vary depending on the building layout and fire strategy, particularly in multi-zone smoke ventilation systems.
For a detailed explanation, read guide AOV Systems Explained
Types of AOV Smoke Ventilation Systems
Stairwell smoke ventilation systems are designed to keep staircases clearer of smoke, helping protect escape routes in residential and commercial buildings. These systems often use an automatic opening vent window or roof vent at the head of the stairwell.
Corridor Smoke Ventilation is commonly used in apartment blocks and communal buildings to extract smoke from corridors and lobby areas. They usually use an AOV at the end of the corridor or, if internal, a smoke shaft
Smoke Shaft Systems use fire-rated dampers and vertical shafts to remove smoke from internal corridors where direct ventilation may not be possible.
Regulations and Compliance
AOV solutions are typically required as part of a building’s fire strategy to help protect escape routes.
AOV systems are usually designed in line with UK guidance and standards, including:
We work to these standards to ensure our product choices are tested, certified, and the solution meets all applicable requirements.
Our team of smoke ventilation specialists can help specify automatic smoke ventilation systems tailored to your building. From product selection to technical support, we’re here to help at every stage.