Automatic opening vents keep escape routes clear of smoke during a fire, but only if they're correctly designed, installed, and regularly tested.
Automatic opening vents (AOVs) clear smoke from stairwells and escape routes, keeping evacuation routes clear and giving firefighters better visibility. We design, install and service smoke vent systems in line with BS 7346-8, with full testing and certification.
An AOV, or automatic opening vent, is a window, louvre, or roof hatch linked to a building’s fire alarm system that opens automatically the moment smoke is detected. By venting hot smoke and drawing in cooler air, an AOV keeps stairwells and corridors clear enough for people to evacuate safely, while also improving visibility for firefighters tackling the source of the fire. Smoke vent systems are typically found in multi-storey residential buildings, apartment stairwells, offices, and commercial premises where a protected escape route needs to stay smoke-free during a fire.
Discover periferal services available for
Smoke Vent Systems
Smoke ventilation is a legal requirement in most multi-storey residential buildings, HMOs, and commercial premises where a protected escape route relies on staying clear of smoke. Whether you need a natural or mechanical system depends on the building’s height, layout, and fire strategy, and getting the design right from the outset is essential for both safety and compliance.
We design and install smoke vent systems tailored to your building, covering the full range of components: AOV windows and roof vents, smoke detectors, control panels, actuators, and break-glass call points, all fully integrated with your fire alarm system. Every installation is commissioned and tested to confirm each component responds correctly to a fire signal, with full documentation provided as part of your building’s fire safety records.
A smoke vent system that hasn’t been tested is a smoke vent system you can’t rely on. UK regulations require AOV and smoke control systems to be serviced at least twice a year, with functional testing of vents, actuators, and battery backups carried out by a competent engineer. We provide planned maintenance for smoke vent systems in line with BS 7346-8, giving you a detailed service report and certification after every visit.
CTS provides smoke vent system services throughout:
Whether you need a new smoke vent system designed and installed, or your existing AOVs are due their next service, our team can help. Contact us today to arrange a site visit or request a quote; we’ll make sure your escape routes stay clear when it matters most.
Connect with our friendly staff today and let us know how we can help you with your next project.
Please use the secure form here and a member of our team will reach out to you as soon as possible to follow up your enquiry.
From education and healthcare to retail, hospitality, and construction, our BAFE-certified engineers bring over 30 years of hands-on experience across a wide range of sectors. Whatever your industry, we'll make sure your fire alarms, CCTV, emergency lighting, and access control systems work together seamlessly, keeping your people, property, and business fully protected.
View AllKeeping Your Business Safe with Expert Fire Alarm, CCTV, Emergency Lighting, and More
At CTS Fire, we offer a full range of services designed to safeguard your business, property, and people. Whether you’re looking for a new fire alarm system, CCTV for your premises, or emergency lighting that meets compliance regulations, we’re here to provide you with reliable, expert solutions.
We understand how important it is to have a fire alarm system that works when you need it most. Our team not only installs fire alarms but ensures they’re regularly tested and serviced, keeping your system in top condition.
In case of an emergency, proper lighting can save lives. We design and install emergency lighting systems that ensure safety and compliance with current regulations.
It’s not just about installing fire extinguishers – it’s about maintaining them and ensuring they’re ready to use in case of an emergency. We offer servicing, refills, and installation to ensure your workplace is fully protected.
CTS provides CCTV design, installation and maintenance for businesses across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas. With over 30 years of industry experience, we deliver bespoke surveillance solutions that keep your property protected around the clock.
From single-door setups to complex multi-site access door systems, our SSAIB-certified engineers deliver secure, fully integrated solutions backed by over 30 years of experience.
We deliver specialist electrical systems designed for complex environments, including installation, integration, and maintenance of high-performance, safety-critical solutions.
