Expert AOV
& Smoke Ventilation Guides
Expert guides on AOV system design, UK building regulations, British Standards, and fire safety compliance. Written by smoke ventilation specialists with over 36 years of experience.
10 guides
O-Range Smoke Control Panel: Complete Guide
The O-Range smoke control panel is a dedicated AOV control unit designed to manage smoke and heat ventilation systems in residential and commercial buildings. Available in single-zone and multi-zone configurations.
Read Guide →AOV Maintenance Requirements
AOV systems must be maintained and tested at regular intervals under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, BS 9999, and BS 9991. The minimum requirement is a weekly visual check, monthly functional test, six-monthly full system test, and annual inspection.
Read Guide →Smoke Shaft Design Principles
A smoke shaft is a dedicated vertical duct that draws smoke out of a building's common areas during a fire. Correct smoke shaft sizing, inlet arrangement, and vent selection are critical to system performance under BS 9991 and Approved Document B.
Read Guide →Stairwell AOV: Design & Installation
Complete AOV stairwell ventilation solutions for residential and commercial buildings. BS EN 12101 certified roof vents, control panels, battery backup, and all ancillaries — supplied as kits or individual components.
Read Guide →AOV Systems for Residential Flats
Residential blocks of flats with a top storey floor level above 11 metres require an automatic smoke ventilation system in the common areas under Approved Document B and BS 9991.
Read Guide →AOV & UK Building Regulations
AOV systems sit at the intersection of building design, fire engineering, and UK law. Understanding which regulations apply — and what they actually require — is essential before any smoke ventilation system is designed, installed, or signed off.
Read Guide →When Does a Building Need an AOV?
A building needs an AOV system when the design includes enclosed stairwells, corridors, or atria that require smoke ventilation to maintain a clear evacuation route. Most residential blocks over 11 metres require AOV provision.
Read Guide →How Does an AOV System Work?
An automatic opening vent works by detecting smoke, sending a signal through a dedicated control panel, and triggering motorised actuators to open vents — clearing escape routes and stairwells of smoke within seconds.
Read Guide →What Is an AOV?
Automatic opening vents are purpose-built smoke and heat exhaust ventilators that open automatically on fire detection to clear escape routes of smoke. BS EN 12101-2 certified AOVs are required in most multi-storey residential and commercial buildings in the UK.
Read Guide →What Is an AOV System? A Complete Guide
An AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) system is a fire safety installation designed to automatically open vents, windows, or louvres in the event of a fire, allowing heat and toxic smoke to escape a building. These systems protect escape routes, enhance visibility for evacuees, and support firefighting efforts.
Read Guide →Need Expert Advice?
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