Smoke control systems are critical for maintaining safety in buildings, ensuring that escape routes and access areas remain clear of smoke, which is crucial for both effective fire-fighting and safe evacuation. At KBS, we are committed to delivering fully compliant smoke control solutions, leveraging our partnerships with leading fabricators and our status as WindowMaster Certified Partners. We are proud to be one of the few Scotland-based companies awarded SDI-19 Accreditation, underscoring our commitment to high standards in smoke control.
Adhering to Regulatory Standards
Since 2013, the Construction Products Regulations (CPR) have mandated that all construction products, including those used in smoke control systems, bear a CE mark, reflecting compliance with relevant standards. For smoke ventilation systems, adherence to the EN12101 suite of standards is essential to ensure they meet rigorous performance and safety requirements. Products failing to meet these standards cannot be appropriately marked with CE or the newer UKCA labels.
The CPR (EU 305/2011) is part of the EU legislative framework designed to facilitate the free movement of goods within the EU. A key requirement of this regulation is that construction products must support fire safety, meaning they must perform reliably in the event of a fire.
The Importance of EN 12101-2
The EN12101-2 standard, titled “Specification for Natural Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilators,” sets forth the criteria and testing procedures for these systems. Since July 2013, manufacturers have been required to comply with EN 12101-2:2003 and ensure their products are CE marked accordingly.
This standard specifies that both the window and its actuator must be tested together as a unified system to ensure compliance. Simply pairing an actuator with a window does not suffice; the entire system must undergo rigorous testing and certification to confirm its effectiveness as a compliant smoke ventilator and thus factory fitted actuators are our system of choice.
Certification and Competency
The implementation of the CPR and the IFC Certification SDI 19 scheme has significantly enhanced industry standards. This scheme is designed to verify the competency of companies in designing, installing, and commissioning smoke control systems.
KBS is proud to be accredited under the SDI 19 installer scheme in the following categories:
Category 1: Focused on small-scale refurbishments, maintenance, and installation of EN12101 compliant products.
Category 2: Specialises in simpler systems such as staircase AOV systems and corridor smoke ventilation.
Category 3: Handles more complex installations, including natural smoke shafts and extensive ventilation systems for various building types.
Advancing Safety and Compliance
Despite progress driven by the CPR and SDI 19 scheme, there are still areas where further improvements are needed. At KBS, we work collaboratively with building control officials, fire engineers, and clients to ensure that smoke control solutions are both safe and compliant. The Declaration of Performance (DoP) is a crucial document that verifies the compliance of products through independent testing and certification. This document is an essential part of the building approval process, affixed to the finished vent and evidenced in the building O&M.
Following the Grenfell Tower fire, Dame Judith Hackitt’s review underscored the need for a more rigorous and transparent approach to product testing and specification. Independent third-party certification is now recommended for high-risk residential buildings to ensure safety. The responsibility for compliance rests with the manufacturers and installers, with oversight provided by various regulatory bodies.
KBS’s Commitment to Quality
At KBS, we provide certified smoke control solutions through our collaboration with WindowMaster and leading fabricators such as Sertus, Fieger, Hueck, Sapa, Hansen, Jet, Velux, Lamilux, Schuco, Velfac, Vitral, and Wicona, with at least 2 more certified solutions ready for manufacture in 2024. Our goal is to ensure that every system we deliver meets the highest standards of safety and performance.
At KBS, our foremost priority is the safety of individuals within every building we work on. We provide clear, honest, and realistic support and guidance to our partners, including main contractors, housing associations, councils, and landlord associations. Our approach ensures that every smoke control system we implement not only meets stringent regulatory standards but also genuinely contributes to the safety and well-being of building occupants. By collaborating closely with these key stakeholders, we strive to deliver solutions that are both effective and dependable, reinforcing our commitment to creating safer environments through transparent and expert advice.
Our ethical service and expert guidance ensure that every system we deliver not only meets but exceeds industry standards. Contact us today to discuss your smoke control needs and experience the peace of mind that comes with our certified, dependable solutions. Let’s work together to create safer environments for everyone.
Reach out to KBS now and ensure your building’s safety and compliance with the best in smoke control systems.
