Case studies in building smoke control

Abstract

Smoke control systems for three buildings are described. Each of the buildings is low-rise three or four stories high. In each case a smoke control system using the HVAC system to limit or direct smoke migration from large portions of occupied space was used. Each of the buildings contained an interconnected space through the height of the building. One of the buildings uses a mall concept; the second, a modular concept of multiatria; and the third, a lobby concept. The results of smoke control tests for each building are presented. It was found that a building pressurization system with roof vents failed to satisfy the smoke control criteria of limiting smoke spread from one floor to another. The design was changed to provide exhaust fans at the roof, which were subsequently tested and performed satisfactorily. Tests of the lobby concept and of the multi-atria were satisfactory.