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A fusible link (or “pop-up”) type smoke vent with fall protection.

Heat and Smoke Vents: Information Guide

By Roof Online Staff • Updated October 8, 2022

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A fusible link (or “pop-up”) type smoke vent with fall protection.
A fusible link (or “pop-up”) type smoke vent with fall protection.
A 24-year-old melt-out type smoke vent. The discoloration is a result of material deterioration due to age and UV-exposure. The picture was taken in Chicago, and that is the south end of the smoke vent.
A 24-year-old melt-out type smoke vent. The discoloration is a result of material deterioration due to age and UV-exposure. The picture was taken in Chicago, and that is the south end of the smoke vent.

1. General:  The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) was established in 1950 and incorporated as a not-for-profit membership organization in 1971. It is the world’s leading professional society representing those practicing in the field of fire protection and fire safety engineering.

2. General: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): The NFPA is a leading authority on fire protection and safety. They provide information on fire codes and standards, including those related to heat and smoke vents. They offer a variety of resources, including codes, guidelines, and training courses.

3. Building Codes: “Section 910 Smoke and Heat Removal” from the 2018 International Building Code. Available on the UpCodes website.

4. Safety: UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute (UL FSRI): UL FSRI is a research organization that focuses on improving fire fighter safety. They provide information on fire safety, including the use of heat and smoke vents in buildings.

5. Technical: See this product data document for the technical characteristics of “pop-up” smoke vents at the Velux Solutions website. This is only an example and other products and brands may be different.

6. Technical: See this product data page for the technical characteristics of “melt-out” smoke vents at the Plasteco website (click on a specific model for more details). This is only an example and other products and brands may be different.