Stairwell pressurization failing? A Blower Door test can help
Stairwell pressurization systems are a fundamental component of fire safety in tertiary buildings.
Stairwell pressurization failing? A Blower Door test can help
Stairwell pressurization systems are a fundamental component of fire safety in tertiary buildings.
Their primary function is to keep the stairwell free of smoke in the event of a fire, ensuring a safe evacuation route for occupants and facilitating emergency services’ access. These systems operate by controlled air injection into the stairwell, creating a positive pressure that prevents smoke from entering from fire-affected areas. At the same time, the pressure can’t be so high, otherwise occupants will be unable to open doors to the stairwell, so typically air pressure needs to be maintained between 50 Pa and 60 Pa.
For the pressurization system to function effectively, it is essential that the stairwell and ventilation supply ducts have an adequate level of air tightness. If there are excessive air leaks through doors, joints, or poorly sealed construction elements or ventilation ducts, the pressurization fan may not reach the required pressure of 50 Pa, compromising the system’s effectiveness and endangering occupant safety.
To assess the air tightness of these spaces, at Praxis we have conducted a series of “Blower Door” air tightness tests in the stairwell of tertiary buildings such as offices and hospitals. The test is performed by installing a pressurization fan in one of the stairwell access doors and sealing the ventilation supply grilles on each floor. During the test, pressure differences are generated between the interior and exterior of the stairwell, allowing the measurement and detection of air infiltration. Once the course of leaks has been detected, they can then be corrected, to ensure that the pressurization system will achieve the required pressure values.
Thanks to our experience and technical expertise in air tightness testing, at Praxis we offer a specialized service to evaluate and improve the efficiency of pressurization systems in stairwells of tertiary buildings, thereby contributing to the safety and protection of occupants in emergency situations.
