A smoke vent rooflight is an automatic opening vent that opens on a fire signal to release smoke from a stair or atrium. It should be a product certified to BS EN 12101-2, installed to the building's fire strategy, and maintained by whoever holds the fire-safety duties — the responsible person in England and Wales, the duty holder in Scotland or the appropriate person in Northern Ireland — commonly with an annual service under BS 7346-8.
Which standard applies to smoke vents?
BS EN 12101-2:2017 sets the requirements and test methods for natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators. Certification belongs to the manufacturer's tested product.
Who must maintain them?
In England and Wales, article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the responsible person to keep fire safety facilities maintained in an efficient state. Scotland and Northern Ireland have equivalent duties.
How often should AOVs be tested?
BS 7346-8:2013 gives the code of practice for maintenance, commonly interpreted as an annual service, with more frequent functional checks — often weekly for systems protecting escape routes — as the fire risk assessment requires.
Can I replace a vent with any rooflight?
No. A replacement must match the original's certified performance and aerodynamic free area, or the fire strategy must be reviewed.
This guide gives general information, not legal or structural advice. Rules change and every property is different — check with your council or building control for your address. We review our guides regularly; the date above shows the last review.
Sources
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