What device controls the movement of smoke in a building?

The smoke damper is the device specifically designed to control the movement of smoke in a building. When there is a fire, smoke can travel rapidly through the ductwork and other spaces, which can exacerbate the situation and pose a greater threat to occupants. Smoke dampers are installed within the duct systems and are operated automatically or manually to seal off sections of the duct when smoke is detected. This helps to confine smoke to the area of origin, facilitating safety measures like evacuation and aiding firefighting efforts.

By effectively controlling the airflow and limiting the spread of smoke, smoke dampers play a crucial role in maintaining tenable conditions within the building and protecting both lives and property. This function is vital, especially in high-rise buildings where smoke can rise quickly, affecting higher floors even if the fire is on a lower level. Their operation is typically linked to the building's fire alarm system, which activates the dampers when smoke is detected, making them a vital component of a comprehensive smoke control strategy in fire safety management.