The Teal Products Team attended site to investigate reports that the head of stairs Automatic Opening Vent (AOV) was not operating correctly. Upon inspection, multiple installation defects were identified, adversely affecting both functional performance and regulatory compliance.

The existing vent had been installed in a position whereby the opening sash discharged directly into the parapet wall, physically restricting its full operational stroke. It was evident that the surrounding flashing detail had been cut and modified to force the unit into position, thereby compromising the integrity of the roof weathering interface.

Further inspection by the team identified the absence of fire-rated sealant beneath the vent frame, resulting in a breach of compartmentation at roof level. Several primary mechanical fixings were found to be inadequately secured, raising concerns regarding structural stability under wind load and operational stress. Cable routing to the actuator was also poorly executed, with insufficient containment and strain relief provided.

Following a full compliance and performance assessment, the team determined that replacement of the complete vent assembly was the only viable remedial solution to ensure regulatory compliance, operational reliability, and long-term performance integrity.

AOV Roof Hatch Installed

The replacement unit installed was an SV-R-RL1 AOV Roof Hatch which is designed specifically for smoke ventilation applications and is suitable for use on head of stairs systems connected to a 24V smoke control arrangement.

The unit features a double-glazed clear glass cover and a thermally broken aluminium base with Rockwool insulation. The external finish was powder coated to RAL 7016, with an internal finish of RAL 9010 as requested by the client.

The internal daylight opening measures 1000mm by 1200mm, with an overall external flange size of 1256mm by 1750mm. The hatch provides a geometric area of 1.20m², a free area of 1.10m², and an aerodynamic free area of 0.82m², ensuring effective smoke ventilation performance.

The unit is rated to withstand snow loads of 500N and wind loads of 1500N, providing durability in exposed roof conditions.

Installation and Commissioning

SV-R-RL1 AOV Roof Hatch installation on roof

The new hatch was craned into position and aligned to ensure it opened away from the parapet wall, allowing full and unrestricted movement. Fire-rated sealant was applied beneath the frame to reinstate compartmentation at roof level, and the unit was securely fixed in place. Cabling was then re-routed and enclosed within appropriate containment to improve protection and overall finish.

Once installed, the system was recommissioned. Testing confirmed that the hatch opened and closed smoothly, achieved full stroke, and responded correctly in line with the building’s fire alarm cause and effect strategy.

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