CROSS-UK issues a critical Safety Alert: Smoke vents rendered inoperable by building work

AOVs are provided as part of a fire safety smoke control system. In the event of a fire, an inoperable smoke vent poses a significant hazard. If smoke cannot be released from the building, it could hamper the escape of occupants and the ability of the fire and rescue service to fight a fire.

In many cases, AOVs can be indistinguishable from standard windows. This may lead to their inadvertent obstruction.

As part of its confidential reporting system, CROSS-UK has received several reports of AOVs being made inoperable by building work, including when façade materials are being replaced.

An AOV might easily be rendered inoperable by a scaffold pole, temporary masking, the storage of materials, or adjustments to cladding.

This is a Red Safety Alert – the highest rating possible on the CROSS traffic light system. It is particularly relevant for buildings undergoing removal work of combustible cladding.

Read the full Alert on the CROSS website.