Stairwell Pressurisation Systems
Maintaining safe escape routes during fire events via compliant pressure-controlled systems.
Why Stairwell Pressurisation Matters
Stairwell pressurisation systems create a positive pressure differential between escape stairs and adjacent accommodation areas, preventing smoke infiltration during fire events. When designed and maintained correctly, they keep escape routes tenable, allowing safe evacuation even in large, complex buildings.
BS EN 12101-6 sets the performance requirements for pressure differential systems. Annual testing verifies that fans maintain required differentials under various door-opening scenarios, that failure modes are detected, and that integration with fire alarm systems functions correctly.
Failures in pressurisation systems can result in smoke-logged stairwells, creating untenable conditions during evacuation. The Responsible Person faces prosecution under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 if systems are not maintained to standard.
Compliance Standards
BS EN 12101-6
Smoke and heat control systems – Specification for pressure differential systems. Defines performance requirements, testing protocols, and maintenance schedules for pressurisation fans.
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Places legal duty on the Responsible Person to maintain fire safety systems, including smoke control. Non-compliance can result in prosecution and unlimited fines.
Testing Requirements
Performance Testing
Annual verification that the system achieves the required pressure differential (typically 40-60 Pa) under various door-opening scenarios. Testing includes single and multiple door openings to simulate real evacuation conditions.
Fan Duty Verification
Checking fan speed, airflow, power consumption, and control sequences. Verifying that standby fans activate correctly if primary fans fail.
Pressure Differential Checks
Using calibrated manometers to measure pressure differences between stairwell and adjacent spaces. Ensuring lobby doors can still be opened by a person exerting reasonable force.
Failure Mode Testing
Simulating fan failures to verify that alarms are raised to the fire alarm panel and building management system, and that standby systems activate within acceptable timeframes.
Responsible Person Obligations
Maintaining test records, ensuring annual testing is completed, and acting on remedial recommendations within prescribed timeframes. Records must be available for inspection by fire authorities.
Risks of Non-Compliance
Smoke Infiltration into Escape Routes
Failed pressurisation allows smoke to enter stairwells, creating untenable conditions. Occupants may become disoriented, suffer smoke inhalation, or be unable to evacuate safely.
Legal and Financial Liability
The Responsible Person can face prosecution, unlimited fines, and imprisonment if a fire results in injury or death due to inadequately maintained systems. Insurance claims may be voided.
Increased Fire Spread Risk
Without positive pressure, smoke and fire gases can travel through stairwells to upper floors, accelerating fire spread and complicating firefighting operations.
Ensure Your Pressurisation Systems Are Compliant
Get a fixed-price proposal for annual testing, remedial works, and full compliance documentation. Our engineers hold BAFE and NFCC credentials.