Commercial Building Inspector B2General Administration, Permits, and PlansEasy
A commercial building inspector is reviewing plans for a new 12-story Group B office building. The building will utilize a smoke control system. Which of the following is NOT a primary component of a typical smoke control system?
- AFire sprinklers
- BSupply air fans
- CSmoke dampers
- DExhaust fans
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Fire sprinklers
While fire sprinklers are a critical component of overall fire protection, they are a fire suppression system, not a direct component of a smoke control system. Smoke control systems are designed to manage smoke movement, typically using fans and dampers.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Supply air fans are a primary component, used to provide makeup air or pressurize adjacent zones.
- C. Smoke dampers are a primary component, used to open or close ductwork to control smoke flow.
- D. Exhaust fans are a primary component, used to remove smoke from a smoke zone.
Smoke Control System Components
A smoke control system is an engineered system designed to limit the movement of smoke within a building during a fire, typically by using mechanical fans, ducts, and dampers to create pressure differentials or exhaust smoke. It aims to protect egress paths and facilitate firefighting operations.
- Manages smoke movement.
- Uses fans (exhaust and supply).
- Uses smoke dampers.
- Distinct from fire suppression systems.
Memory trick: The 'Smoke Shield' system uses air to protect paths, not water.