Architects are constantly challenged to deliver sophisticated building designs that comply with a host of building codes. For many, louvre windows are often the favoured choice for aesthetic and ventilation and sustainability purposes. However, sourcing a louvre window system to meet the many building codes and standards, especially with regard to smoke and fire standards, can be frustrating. Most louvre window systems are not fire rated and do not provide a failsafe solution. This leads to architects abandoning the idea of specifying louvre windows in their projects.
Safetyline Jalousie louvre windows have developed a Smoke Relief Solution that meets Australian smoke and fire standards, filling a significant gap in the market.
This unique Smoke Relief Solution has been developed as a result of years of collaboration, innovation, experience working with automation and control specialists at EBSA.
The Safetyline Jalousie Louvre Window Smoke Relief Solution comprise 4 major components: 1) louvres; 2) drives; 3) cabling; and 4) controls which interface with the fire indicator panel (FIP) and building management system (BMS). The automation hardware is certified to EN12101 (ISO21927).
The Smoke Relief Solution can be utilised for the following purposes:
- Natural Smoke Relief/Exhaust – in the case of smoke/fire the louvre windows automatically open and smoke naturally leaves the building.
- Make-Up Air to a Mechanical Exhaust – buildings are equipped with large exhaust fans that operate in tandem with the opening of the louvre windows.
- Stairwell Pressurisation – louvres will open on the relevant floor to allow air to exit the stairwell.
The ISO certified electronics inside the drives can be programmed to open and/or close the louvre windows based on a range of triggers.
The control panel is a failsafe design with 72-hour failsafe battery backup, so if the building loses power, the system keeps working. All components including cables are monitored for faults.
Some examples of projects installing the Safetyline Jalousie Louvre Window System as part of their smoke and fire management plan include, 1 Bligh Street, Sydney, The Cairns Institute, Serrata Apartments and CC Cares Facility.
