Enhancing a fire curtain with a transparent vision panel should be considered in an attempt to assist both fire wardens and fire fighters when a fire breaks out, argues Coopers Fire.
The use of vision panels is “extremely beneficial” for first responders according to Stuart Borne, MIFireE at Coopers Fire. Vision panels can be used in provide in-built fire protection for structures such as fire doors and curtains that have a clear, window-like panel, to enable first responders to see smoke or flames on the other side.
Stuart commented: “According to Approved Document B, vision panels should be provided where: fire doors on escape routes subdivide corridors, any doors are hung to swing both ways, or where it is required for providing an inner room arrangement.
“In the event of a fire, where a fire curtain is utilised instead of a fire door, the curtain will deploy with a vison panel and give the person the same options, as a door would, when carrying out their search techniques in a fire situation.
“Vision panels could save precious time by allowing individuals to see through the curtain like looking through a window. In an emergency, time is crucial and fire protection measures should help make first responders more efficient in their role and not hinder the evacuation process.”
Coopers highlights that fire curtains are key to compartmentation, which is fundamental for maintaining the fire safety measures and overall fire strategy of a building, and greatly reduces the effect of fire spreading from one compartment to another.
Choosing a fire curtain with a vision panel, such as the company’s ResQ-Window, allows building occupants and first responders to identify risk in different sections of a building, even once the curtain has been deployed.
BS 8524 provides comprehensive guidance on the specification, installation, and ongoing maintenance of fire curtains. BS EN 1634-1, meanwhile, is the key testing certification to look for in terms of compliance and product integrity. Both of these standards are worthy of careful consideration from fire and security specialists looking to take their fire safety specification to the next level.
Stuart concluded: “As a fully compliant, translucent fireproof panel, the ResQ-Window is a concept capable of making a massive difference in areas of a building which need to be assessed prior to entry. A fire curtain with a vision panel is perfect for lift openings and lobbies, as well as escape routes incorporating doorways and corridors.”
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