Understanding Stair Pressurisation
When the high-rise is on fire, the stairs are your only safe escape route from the building ... but is it? By using our knowledge of physics and understanding the characteristics of smoke, gases and fire, architects and engineers can ensure that the stairs remain a safe route during an emergency because of stair pressurisation.
The Importance of Stair Pressurisation
The basic principle behind fire stair pressurisation is quite simple: the HVAC of the building is used to create a slightly higher air pressure in the stairwell than the rest of the building. During a fire or other emergency, the higher air pressure prevents smoke or gases from entering the stairwell, keeping the air breathable during the evacuation. It also prevents the spread of the fire to higher floors via the stairwell.
Stair pressurisation systems are part of your mandatory Annual Fire Safety Statements (AFSS) test. Our qualified technicians have the skills and knowledge to test purge, sandwich or zone pressurization systems. We comprehensively test door velocities, door forces, the differential pressure between floors and zones, and noise levels. We also document stair pressures, fire door integrity and anything that may stop fire doors from operating as intended.
AWBS for Stair Pressurisation Testing
We have been working on HVAC systems and building safety for over 20 years. Our expertise takes us across the whole of NSW, ensuring your multi-storey building complies with the safety regulations for stair pressurisation and Australian standards. Makes sure your multi-storey building is safe by having the stair pressurisation tested regularly.
