Suitsuühendused

Suitsuühendused are part of a building’s fire safety and refer to the connections that manage the movement of smoke between spaces and toward dedicated exhaust paths. They are an element of smoke control systems, which may be integrated with mechanical ventilation networks or implemented as separate shaft and duct systems.

In practice, suitsuühendused include ducts, shafts, dampers and vents that link fire compartments or floors to smoke extraction or supply equipment. Their main purpose is to limit the spread of smoke, maintain tenable conditions for occupants, support safe evacuation, and assist firefighting by providing access to smoke-free routes and clearing smoke from the fire floor.

Design and installation considerations emphasize fire resistance of enclosures, effective compartmentation, placement to minimize cross-flow, automatic operation and fail-safety of dampers, reliability of fans and power supplies, and coordination with fire detection and alarm systems. Proper sealing and accessibility for inspection and maintenance are also important to prevent unintended smoke leakage and to facilitate regular servicing.

Regulatory framework and standards: In Estonia, suitsuühendused fall under national fire safety regulations and building codes, with guidance drawn from fire safety standards. International influences, such as the EN 12101 series on smoke and heat control, often inform design, testing, and commissioning practices. Documentation typically includes architectural and mechanical drawings, smoke-control calculations, and commissioning reports.

Maintenance and operation: Ongoing maintenance involves regular inspection and testing of dampers and fans, verification of automatic controls, and periodic performance checks to ensure reliable function during a fire event. Collaboration among architects, engineers, and facility managers is essential for effective efficacy of suitsuühendused.