Smoke Shaft Testing and Building Regulations

Smoke Shaft Testing and Building Regulations: What You Need to Know

Smoke shaft testing plays a vital role in ensuring Automatic Opening Vent (AOV) systems perform effectively during a fire, allowing smoke to be cleared and occupants to evacuate safely. A range of building regulations and industry standards govern how smoke shaft air testing must be carried out. Below is an overview of the key guidance you need to be aware of.

Key Regulations and Standards for Smoke Shaft Testing

Smoke shaft air testing must comply with several UK building regulations and recognised industry standards, including:

Approved Documents and British Standards

• Approved Document B (Fire Safety)
  Provides guidance on fire safety in buildings and highlights the role of AOV systems in smoke control and evacuation. Always refer to the latest version for current requirements.

• BS EN 12101-2:2006
  Covers the design and performance requirements for smoke and heat control systems, including AOV smoke shafts.

• BS 9991:2015
  Fire safety in the design, management, and use of residential buildings.

• Smoke Shaft Testing Standards
  Testing is carried out in accordance with:

  • ATTMA Technical Standard L (TSL) Issue 1

  • CIBSE T23:2000

  • BS EN 13829

  • BS EN 12101-2:2006

Testing Requirements

• Testing Frequency
  Annual air testing is required to confirm smoke shafts and AOV systems are operating correctly and remain compliant.

• Competent Testing Bodies
  Smoke shaft air tests must be undertaken by:

  • An ATTMA Level 2 member

  • A Level 1 IATS tester

  • Or a UKAS-accredited testing laboratory

• UKAS-Calibrated Equipment
  All testing must be completed using UKAS-calibrated equipment in line with ISO 17025 air permeability standards.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official guidance documents and any recent amendments issued by the UK Government or relevant authorities.

How Long Does Smoke Shaft Air Testing Take?

The time required for smoke shaft air testing depends on several factors, including building size, shaft complexity, and access. Below is a general guide:

• Small Buildings or Single Shafts
  Typically 1–2 hours, assuming straightforward access and minimal complications.

• Larger Buildings or Multiple Shafts
  Testing may take 2–4 hours or longer, depending on the number of shafts and system complexity.

• Preparation and Setup
  Time is required for equipment setup, sealing openings, safety checks, and coordination on site.

• Testing Process
  The shaft is pressurised, and air leakage is measured. Larger or more complex shafts will take longer to test.

• Reporting and Documentation
  Post-test analysis, reporting, and certification add additional time. This includes identifying issues and providing recommendations.

• Failed Air Test Investigations
  If a shaft fails, combined smoke testing and thermal imaging may be undertaken to identify air leakage paths. Reporting time will vary depending on the findings.

• Remedial Works (If Required)
  Any necessary repairs or improvements within the shaft will depend on the extent of defects and access conditions.

Accuracy, safety, and compliance are critical throughout the process. Consulting experienced professionals will help determine the most efficient testing approach for your building.

Why Choose APT for Smoke Shaft Air Testing?

Air Pressure Testing (APT) has extensive experience delivering smoke shaft testing across London and the South-East. We’ve worked on some of the UK’s most prestigious developments, including Battersea Power Station, The Imperial War Museum, Claridge’s, and The Berkeley Hotel.

With over 10 years of hands-on experience, our expert engineers understand how to help clients achieve compliance, pass testing, and secure smoke shaft sign-off with minimal disruption.

What We Offer

• Smoke shaft survey visits

• UKAS-accredited and ATTMA Level 2 testing

• Smoke shaft air test certification

• Latest high-powered fan equipment

• UKAS-calibrated testing equipment

• Smoke testing following air test failures

• Thermal imaging to identify leakage paths

• Same-day quotations

• Highly experienced test engineers

• Thousands of successful air pressure tests

• Excellent customer satisfaction ratings

Air Pressure Testing Ltd works with everyone from self-builders to the UK’s largest construction companies, providing expert design support, consultancy, and compliance at every project stage. Our goal is to deliver a professional, friendly, and stress-free service from start to finish.

To discuss your Smoke Shaft Testing requirements, contact APT Sound Testing on 01525 303 905 or via our website contact page. Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help.