Fire curtains descend in contemporary designs: an harmonious union
Automatically Deployable Fire Curtains: A Modern Safety Solution for Open-Plan Architecture
In the era of contemporary design, where architectural masterpieces push the boundaries of conventional four-walled structures, safety regulations sometimes pose challenges. Open-plan areas, lack of compartmentation, and unclear emergency exit routes are common issues that arise, especially in relation to fire safety. To address these concerns, the industry has developed a discreet and adaptable solution — automatically deployable fire curtains.
Modern times have witnessed an intensified demand for individuality and this creative impulse permeates all facets of design, particularly architecture. As buildings evolve into abstract forms, providing functional and safe spaces can sometimes prove challenging.
Fire safety, in particular, is affected as open-plan areas may lack proper compartmentation or emergency exit routes. Realizing this issue, the industry has evolved to create a solution that complements bold designs without obtrusion.
After several cases where it became difficult to adhere to the safety standards set out in the Approved Document B, it was crucial to ensure that buildings would be equipped with a fire safety solution that adhered to building regulations. In response, the development of a flexible and effective fire curtain emerged.
These unassuming curtains can be installed inconspicuously in the ceiling and deploy swiftly upon first signs of a fire, thanks to the Total Gravity Fail Safe System. Once deployed, they can protect living spaces against the spread of fire and smoke for up to four hours, hindering the progress of the fire and aiding emergency services in containment efforts.
One example of implementation is the Watermark West Quay leisure complex in Southampton. Constructed in a ship-like fashion, the main contractor Sir Robert McAlpine opted for an open-plan layout that included a cinema, restaurants, retail, and a bowling alley. To comply with fire safety regulations, six fire curtains, developed by Our Company, were installed over lift openings, providing an effective means of separation and escape. These Master curtains, rated according to BS EN 1634-1 and 3, underwent thorough testing and were approved by the client and third parties alike.
Our Company remains dedicated to universal life safety, offering fire and smoke curtains and barriers, which they have provided for over 30 years. With highly trained technicians on hand throughout the process, they offer comprehensive aftercare and will be pleased to assist with questions or for information about designing or installing their fire curtains in accordance with British, European and American Standards.
[1] From Enrichment Data, these curtains are non-intrusive, offering seamless integration into modern designs while providing temporary fire-resistant barriers. They are activated on detection of fire or smoke, deploying quickly and reliably to segregate spaces, limit the spread of fire and smoke, and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. Their gravity-fail-safe mechanism ensures continuous protective function, even in the event of power failure.
[2] From Enrichment Data, these fire curtains enhance fire and smoke containment, contribute to improved safety without impacting design, and can be applied in various settings like open-plan offices, retail venues, institutional buildings, and workshops.
[3] From Enrichment Data, similar curtain systems in industrial settings can help regulate airflow and temperature, contributing to safer working environments.
In the realm of contemporary design, these unassuming fire curtains, a creation of our modern-day industry, seamlessly integrate into lifestyle and home-and-garden spaces, providing non-intrusive, yet effective temporary fire-resistant barriers that adhere to safety regulations. These modern marvels, activated by fire or smoke detection, contribute to home safety without compromising aesthetics. [1]
Moreover, these fire curtains extend their utility beyond residential and commercial settings, becoming a valuable addition to general-news and sports sectors. By enhancing fire and smoke containment, they not only improve overall safety but also contribute to creating safer workplaces in industrial settings, aiding in the maintenance of optimal airflow and temperatures. [2] [3]
