Conceptual arguments on the use of unlatched reverse swing “flappy” door smoke control systems in residential buildings

Abstract

Purpose

The proposed use of unlatched, reverse swing flappy doors is becoming widespread in the design of residential common corridor smoke control systems. This article explores the conceptual arguments for and against the use of these systems.

Design/methodology/approach

This article relies on industry experience, with reference to relevant building design practices, standards and research literature, to categorise arguments. These are collated into four common areas of concern relating to compartmentation, reliability, depressurisation and modelling practices. A final comparison is made between different common corridor smoke control system types for these four areas.

Findings

The article highlights several concerns around the use of flappy door systems, including the enforced breaches in stair compartmentation, uncertainties around system reliability, the reliance on door closers as a single point of failure, the impact of day-to-day building use on the system performance and the false confidence that modelling assessments can provide in demonstrating adequacy. The article concludes in suggesting that alternative smoke control options be considered in place of flappy door systems.

Originality/value

Discussion on the use of flappy door smoke control systems has been ongoing within the fire engineering community for several years, but there is limited public literature available on the topic. By collating the common arguments relating to these systems into a single article, a better understanding of their benefits and pitfalls has been provided for consideration by building design and construction professionals.

Citation

Hopkin, C. and Lay, S. (2024), "Conceptual arguments on the use of unlatched reverse swing “flappy” door smoke control systems in residential buildings", International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, Vol. 42 No. 4, pp. 618-636. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJBPA-12-2021-0167