Home / Help centre / Smoke vents (AOVs) / Looking after it
How to look after your smoke vents (AOVs)
Smoke vents keep stairs and corridors clear of smoke so people can get out. They need to open when it matters.
What you can check
- The responsible person should function-test the vents weekly or monthly, as your system's instructions say (BS EN 12101-2, BS 9991, BS 9999). Tell the ARC first if the vents are linked to the fire alarm.
- Look at the AOV control panel when you pass. Only the normal or power light should be on.
- Check vents are closed and nothing is blocking them from opening, inside or outside.
- Make sure smoke vent switches are visible and not blocked.
- Record any operation or fault, and tell us straight away about faults.
What we test on a service
- Test each vent opens fully on a signal from the fire alarm and from its manual controls
- Check actuators, control panels and batteries
- Check weather seals
- Record the results for your fire risk assessor
Why it matters
Your fire risk assessment may set how often smoke vents are tested and serviced. They should be serviced at least once a year by a competent person.
Printable help sheets
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Book a serviceCall 01635 938998Common questions
How often should AOVs be serviced?
They should be serviced at least once a year by a competent person. Your fire risk assessment may ask for more.
Can you service AOVs with our fire alarm?
Yes. AOVs are usually triggered by the fire alarm, so testing them together proves the whole system works.
A vent is letting rain in. What should I do?
Call Fortline on 01635 938998. Don't tape or wedge it shut.
Who is responsible for AOVs in a block?
Usually the Responsible Person for the building, such as the managing agent or freeholder.