What is a smoke barrier?

A smoke barrier is a critical component in fire protection and safety systems within buildings. It is specifically designed to resist the movement of smoke from one area to another during a fire incident. This is essential because smoke can spread rapidly and is often more dangerous than the fire itself, contributing to fatalities and injuries due to smoke inhalation.

Smoke barriers work by compartmentalizing different sections of a building, effectively creating zones that help to contain smoke and reduce its spread, thereby improving visibility and safety for occupants during an evacuation. They are typically constructed from materials with a certain fire-resistance rating and may include features like sealed joints and doors designed to prevent smoke leakage.

This understanding of a smoke barrier emphasizes its role in life safety and the importance of compliance with building codes and fire safety regulations to protect occupants in case of an emergency.