Next Day Dispatch – 1000s of products in stock
5-Star Rated – Trusted across the UK
Dedicated Specialists – Support for your project
How Smoke Shaft Systems Work
A smoke shaft is a vertical duct that runs through a building, linking each floor to a discharge point at roof level.
In a fire, dampers open on the affected floor, allowing smoke to enter the shaft. At the same time a roof vent opens, allowing smoke to rise and be released at roof level.
Where a shaft serves multiple floors, it forms part of a multi-zone system, typically opening only on the affected level to prevent smoke spreading to other areas
When are Smoke Shafts Required?
Smoke shafts are typically required where internal corridors or lobbies cannot be ventilated directly to the outside.
Requirements are determined by your building’s fire strategy and are typically designed in accordance with Approved Document B, BS 9991 and BS 9999.
Every project is different, so we’ll review your drawings and recommend the most suitable compliant solution.
Typical Smoke Shaft Setup
Most smoke shaft systems include:
- A vertical smoke shaft
- Smoke control dampers on each level (BS EN 12101-8)
- A roof-level vent or louvre (BS EN 12101-2)
- Smoke detectors and control panels
- Manual override (break glass) units
- Battery backup
Smoke shafts can use natural or mechanical ventilation. Natural systems rely on rising warm air, while mechanical systems use fans where greater control is required.
How to Order Your System
Drawings, fire strategy, or a quick overview of your project
Know what you need? We’ll price it. If not, we’ll recommend the right setup.
Clear pricing, fast lead times, and ongoing support when you need it
Choosing the Right Smoke Shaft System
Complete Smoke Ventilation Solutions
Smoke shaft systems typically form part of a wider smoke ventilation system.
They are used to ventilate internal corridors and lobbies, removing smoke vertically through the building using dampers on each level.
Stairwells are ventilated separately using AOVs, helping to protect the main escape route.
In larger or more complex buildings, these zones may form part of a larger, multi-zone smoke ventilation system.
We can help supply practical smoke shaft ventilation solutions for a wide range of residential and commercial projects. From smoke shaft dampers and roof vents to controls and system components, we can help you specify the right solution for your project.