What is a "smoke control system"?

A smoke control system is specifically designed to manage the movement and containment of smoke during a fire incident. The primary function of such a system is to ensure the safety of occupants by directing smoke away from escape routes, thereby maintaining breathable air and preventing smoke from accumulating in areas where people may be present. This control can be achieved through various methods, including the use of fans, dampers, and pressurization strategies within the building's design.

In contrast, a system that alarms occupants during a fire serves a different purpose—primarily alerting individuals to evacuate rather than managing smoke itself. Similarly, systems that suppress fires with chemicals or those that automatically extinguish fires focus on extinguishing flames rather than controlling smoke movement. While all these systems play a role in fire safety, the smoke control system uniquely addresses the critical need for smoke management during a fire event.