What is the primary purpose of a smoke control system in high-rise buildings?

The primary purpose of a smoke control system in high-rise buildings is to manage smoke movement during a fire. Smoke control systems are designed to minimize the spread of smoke within the building, which is crucial for maintaining safe egress routes and protecting occupants. By controlling where smoke goes, these systems help to keep certain areas of the building smoke-free, enabling individuals to exit safely and allowing firefighters to access areas more easily.

Effective smoke management involves a combination of smoke removal and pressurization strategies that work together to direct smoke away from evacuation routes and areas where occupants may be, thereby enhancing the overall safety of the building during a fire emergency. Understanding this system is essential for any fire safety director or personnel responsible for emergency preparedness and response in high-rise buildings.