Lifesavers from the ceiling: That's why smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems (SHEVS) are indispensable in fire protection!

When a fire breaks out, the flames are often not the greatest danger. Smoke and toxic fumes are the insidious killers: they are responsible for up to 90% of all fire victims. In the darkness and surrounded by poisonous gases, people have little chance of escaping to safety. This is precisely where smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems (SHEVS) come into play – they are true lifesavers and an indispensable component.

The deadly danger: smoke

Smoke spreads extremely quickly, can obscure visibility within seconds, and contains highly toxic substances. Without a smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system (SHEVS), a room or building fills with smoke from top to bottom, leading to the following critical problems:

• Obstruction of escape routes: Without visibility and orientation, people quickly panic. Escape and rescue routes become impassable.

• Respiratory arrest and poisoning: Even a few breaths of the combustion gases can be fatal.

• Obstruction of the fire brigade: The emergency services cannot locate the source of the fire and launch a targeted firefighting attack, which increases the danger to property and the building structure.

What RWA can do: The chimney effect

Smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems (SHEVS), often installed in roofs or upper wall areas, use natural thermal buoyancy (chimney effect) to vent smoke and heat in a controlled manner.

1. Rapid detection: Smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems (SHEVS) are triggered automatically (via fire alarm systems) or manually.

2. To remove the danger: Open smoke extraction vents in the upper area and simultaneously open air intake vents in the lower area of the building.

3. Smoke-free layer: This effect creates a smoke-free layer near the ground.

The advantages are immense:

aspect	RWA effect
Person rescue	Allows a clear view of escape routes and keeps out toxic gases.
Fire brigade operation	It facilitates the localization of the fire's source and the interior attack.
Property protection	It dissipates heat and protects the building structure from collapse (due to heat).
Damage control	Faster fire suppression minimizes business interruptions and consequential damage.

Duty and maintenance: Function must be guaranteed.

Smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems (SHEVS) are legally required in many special-purpose buildings and commercial properties. However, even the best system is useless if it fails in an emergency. Therefore, annual, professional maintenance (in accordance with applicable standards) is absolutely essential. This is the only way to guarantee the reliable operation of the electrical and mechanical components.

Conclusion:

Smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems are far more than just a legal requirement. They are a fundamental pillar of safety that, in an emergency, can mean the difference between life and death. Invest in smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems – it's an investment in the safety of everyone who uses your building!