The Essential Role Of Stairwell & Liftwell Pressurization Systems

By Author: oliver
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Stairwell and liftwell pressurization systems are the engineered means of creating clear evacuation paths, allowing easy entry to fire fighters, and protecting property. We design, install and maintain these systems to comply with local fire codes where possible, and with the backing of international safety standards.

What Are Stairwell & Liftwell Pressurization Systems?
A stairwell and liftwell pressurization system is comprised of mechanical fans, pressure sensors, dampers, and control panels that create a unique system that keeps a stairwell or a liftwell area at a higher pressure than adjacent spaces. The primary objective is to stop smoke and toxicity gases can enter an egress path during an emergency so that occupants can escape safely and rescue personnel can operate effectively.

Primary Advantages of Successful Pressurization
Fire safety first: The systems create a smoke-free pathway for the fire incident evacuees, which allows an evacuee to escape from the building and egress without exposure to smoke inhalation, which is typically the leading cause of fire fatalities.
Firefighter ...
... access and effectiveness: When the stair wells are not smoking, firefighters can get to the fire much quicker, tangibly aiding the search and rescue process, and can perform ventilation actions within the building.
Code compliance: There are local and national codes that require smoke control by pressurization; the I.B.C. codes, in particular, section 909, and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes stipulate when the application of pressurization systems is required in multi-story buildings, with designated occupant refuge areas, stair enclosures, and lift (elevator) lobbies.
Life safety implication for vulnerable occupants: Vulnerable occupants such as the elderly, children and disabled need more time to egress from a building. Pressurization systems facilitate a safe escape channel for these occupants.

Implementation & Maintenance: Our Deliverables
Angel Safety Consultants is engaged through a total project lifecycle:
Site assessment & modeling: Utilize CFD, CONTAM or analogue environment to model "pressure differentials during fire load", along with wind action and stack-effect on the stairwells and/or lift shafts.
Customized design: Select fan, dampers, sensors, grilles, duct paths, etc, consistent with the occupancy type, height of building, operations and appropriate codes.
Installation excellence: Ensure fire rated components, tuned control systems where required, adequately smoke-protected intakes and reliable dampers, with robust relief venting

Routine testing & ongoing maintenance: Regular site assessment, performance tests (door pressures, sensor operations), ongoing maintenance for functional integrity with expectation that the system works in an emergency.

Don’t wait for disaster to test your building’s safety infrastructure. If you are planning construction, retrofitting, or simply want to audit your stairwell and liftwell pressurization systems, Angel Safety Consultants is ready to help.
Contact us now at contact@angelsafetyconsultants.com
Call today: +91 8329492385