
One of the top causes of fatality because of fire accidents is smoke inhalation. Unfortunately, unlike avoiding the fire itself, it can be hard to prevent exposure to smoke. This is most especially if the building that you are in has a low-quality smoke ventilation system.
Because of this, it's just right that you avail regular maintenance for the smoke vents of your building or homes. This is a preventive measure that is legally required for properties.
For a better view of this topic, we're going to walk you through the ins and outs of smoke ventilation system maintenance. It's important to be well-acquainted with this topic so you can ensure that you won't go through large physical and moral damages if ever you get caught in a fire.
Importance of Smoke Ventilation System Maintenance
Some property owners that want to save money may think that maintenance activities are just a waste of time and money. However, this is not the case at all. Contrary to misconceptions, this will give way to many safety benefits both for its occupants and the building itself.
Here are some of the benefits of undergoing smoke ventilation system maintenance:
- A well-maintained smoke vent will release more smoke on the outside, which prevents the oxygen levels from decreasing rapidly.
- The system will handle more loads of fumes without breaking down in the middle of accidents.
- Smoke vents will have better control over the air. With it, you can avoid the possibility of smoke inhalation.
Having a ventilation system without taking care of it is just the same as not having one at all.
Tasks Involved in Smoke Ventilation System Maintenance
More often than not, maintenance for smoke ventilation systems is executed by professionals. During the task, they will:
- Check vent systems for existing and possible issues
- Repair existing faults
- Install or maintain automatic window openers
- Replace non-functional system accessories
- Ensure that the ventilation system keeps up with fire safety standards
Unless you're a fire safety expert, you should leave maintenance tasks to actual maintenance professionals. Doing so will ensure the quality and effectiveness of the tasks. You will also be able to ask for recommendations regarding your system's improvement because of the pros' vast experience.
How Often Should Smoke Ventilation System Maintenance Be?
To meet fire regulation standards, it's best to avail smoke ventilation system maintenance one to two times a year. This will keep your system in check regularly. It is also just the right period to ensure the functionality of your system, its parts, as well as its accessories.
If you have the budget, you can undergo the task more often. Again, you can consider asking a professional for suggestions. Anyhow, you should be good as long as your system gets checked at least once a year.
Summary
Undergoing maintenance for your ventilation system is essential. It will assure an effective safety system in case of fire accidents and other smoke-involved events. Hence, it's the key to a safer building.
In most cases, maintenance tasks are done by field professionals. It's not recommended to do this by yourself unless you have the necessary technical skills and knowledge.
It is best that you avail of regular maintenance as it will keep your system in its best state. Of course, this will require you to invest money, but it's better than paying for excessive damages and health expenses if accidents happen at one point.