Every building contains equipment whose value is only proven in an emergency. Smoke ventilation systems are the clearest example. An automatic opening vent (AOV) can remain inactive for extended periods, positioned at the head of a stairwell or on a roofline.
In a fire, the speed of activation and reliability of that vent directly affect whether escape routes remain clear of smoke and whether occupants can evacuate safely.
For this reason, BS 9999 requires professional inspection of smoke control systems twice per year. The timing of these inspections is as important as their frequency.
Why Seasonal Conditions Affect System Performance
Smoke control equipment is typically installed in exposed locations, including rooflines and stairwell heads, where it is subject to weather conditions all year round.
Winter conditions present a clear risk. Low temperatures thicken lubricants and stiffen seals, moisture can penetrate actuators and control wiring, and debris accumulated during autumn can obstruct vent channels and hinge mechanisms. A system that operated correctly in September may operate more slowly, or fail, by January. Without testing, this cannot be identified in advance.
Summer conditions place different demands on the system. Sustained high temperatures degrade seals and place additional stress on electronic components, a subject addressed in our recent article on heatwaves and fire alarm performance. Building usage also changes during summer: residential occupancy increases, hotels and student accommodation experience higher turnover, and doors held open for ventilation can alter the airflow patterns that smoke control systems are designed to manage.
The biannual inspection cycle is structured around these seasonal changes. An inspection ahead of winter and another ahead of summer ensures the system’s performance is verified before each period of increased demand, rather than assumed.
What a Professional Inspection Includes
A thorough inspection involves more than activating the test switch. Our engineers assess the complete system, including cycling actuators and opening mechanisms under load; verifying the control panel’s interface with the fire alarm system; testing backup batteries for genuine capacity; and inspecting dampers, mechanical fans, and electrical connections individually. Any fault identified is rectified in accordance with BS EN 12101 standards. Each inspection concludes with a full update to the service log and test schedule, providing the documentation required by fire risk assessors and insurers.
Between engineer visits, weekly functional testing remains the responsibility of the building’s management. To support this requirement, we provide on-site training so that designated staff can carry out these checks correctly and identify early indicators of a developing fault.
IQ Fire Solutions tests and maintains smoke ventilation systems of all types for buildings across London and Essex. As a registered Group SCS aftercare provider, we also supply, fit, and maintain. Group SCS and Easivent AOV equipment specifically
Scheduling Inspections Ahead of Seasonal Demand
Identifying a fault during the season that relies on the system is the least favourable outcome for any building. Scheduling difficulties are also common in the weeks immediately before winter and summer, as engineer availability becomes limited. If your building’s next inspection is due, or the date of the last inspection is uncertain, this should be addressed promptly.
IQ Fire Solutions provides smoke vent testing and maintenance across London and Essex, supported by more than 25 years of commercial fire safety experience. Call us today to arrange an inspection in advance of the next seasonal period.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How often does BS 9999 require smoke vents to be tested?
– Professional inspection is required twice per year, in addition to weekly functional tests carried out by the building’s responsible person. We recommend scheduling engineer visits ahead of winter and summer. - Who is responsible for smoke vent testing in a residential building?
– The duty rests with the person responsible as defined in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, usually the building owner, managing agent or facilities manager. Weekly checks may be carried out in-house. Inspections must be carried out by a competent engineer on a biannual basis. - What happens if a fault is identified during an inspection?
– Any faults are noted and rectified to BS EN 12101 standards either on the same visit or under a subsequent quote where replacement parts are required. All the results are logged in the service log. - Can IQ Fire Solutions maintain Group SCS and Easivent systems?
– Yes. IQ Fire Solutions is a registered Group SCS aftercare provider, qualified to supply, fit, and maintain Group SCS and Easivent AOV equipment across London and Essex. - Can building staff carry out the weekly checks themselves?
– Yes. We provide on-site training covering system operation and weekly and monthly checks, enabling designated staff to test the system correctly and identify potential issues between professional visits.
