What is the purpose of a smoke damper?

The purpose of a smoke damper is to resist the passage of smoke. Smoke dampers are installed in duct systems and other openings to prevent the spread of smoke during a fire incident. By closing off the airflow when smoke is detected, they help contain smoke within the area of origin, thus enhancing life safety and improving the effectiveness of firefighting efforts. This function is essential in maintaining a safe environment for occupants and first responders, ensuring that smoke does not spread to other parts of the building.

Options related to creating pressure in ducts or cooling and humidifying air address functions unrelated to smoke control. Those functions do not align with the primary role of smoke dampers, which focuses specifically on smoke containment and resistive properties to enhance fire safety measures.