Active Fire Protection
Intelligent Fire Safety Systems That Protect Life in Real Time
Going Beyond Compliance for Active Fire Protection
When a fire occurs, every second matters. While passive fire protection slows the spread of flames, active fire protection systems respond instantly, controlling smoke, maintaining escape routes, and protecting occupants when it matters most.
At Meritas, we are able to deliver fully integrated active fire protection solutions designed to work seamlessly with your building’s architecture and fire strategy.
Together, these systems form a coordinated response that protects both life and property.
Our expertise spans three critical systems:
- Smoke Control Dampers
- Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs)
- Fire Curtains
Smoke Control Dampers
Smoke is the leading cause of fatalities in a fire, spreading rapidly and reducing visibility within moments. Smoke control dampers are designed to actively manage this threat, protecting escape routes and maintaining safe evacuation conditions.
Unlike traditional fire dampers, smoke control dampers are motorised systems connected to fire alarms or dedicated control panels, allowing them to respond immediately at the earliest signs of danger.
Key functions include:
- Containment: Prevent smoke from spreading through ductwork into protected areas such as stairwells and corridors
- Extraction Support: Work alongside mechanical systems to remove smoke from affected zones
- Zonal Control: Coordinate with building systems to isolate fire-affected areas
By actively controlling airflow and toxic gases, these systems help maintain “tenable conditions” for safe evacuation.
Automatic Opening Vents
(AOV Systems)
In a fire emergency, visibility and breathable air are critical. AOV systems are designed to automatically release smoke and heat, ensuring escape routes remain clear and accessible.
An AOV is a motorised vent installed in areas such as stairwells, lift shafts, and corridors, activated by smoke detection systems.
How AOV systems work:
- Smoke is detected by sensors or manual call points
- A signal is sent to a control panel
- Actuators automatically open vents to release smoke and heat
These systems play a vital role in maintaining safe evacuation routes and supporting emergency services during an incident.
Fire Curtains
Modern architecture often favours open-plan designs, but these can present challenges for fire safety. Fire curtains provide a discreet, high-performance solution, enabling compliance without compromising aesthetics.
A fire curtain is a concealed, flexible barrier stored within the ceiling, which automatically deploys when a fire alarm is triggered.
Key benefits:
- Automatic Deployment: Descends instantly to form a fire-resistant barrier
- Space-Saving Design: Hidden when not in use, preserving open-plan layouts
- Rapid Compartmentation: Creates “virtual walls” to contain fire and protect escape routes
These systems are engineered to high standards and tested for reliability, ensuring they perform when needed most.
Smarter, Connected Fire Safety Systems
Active fire protection systems do not operate in isolation.
At Meritas, we design and deliver coordinated solutions, ensuring each system works together as part of a wider fire safety strategy.
This integrated approach enhances safety, supports compliance, and provides peace of mind for building owners and responsible persons.
- Smoke dampers control airflow and contain danger
- AOV systems remove smoke and improve visibility
- Fire curtains prevent fire spread and protect key areas
Compliance, Maintenance & Responsibility
Active fire protection systems are subject to strict UK regulations and standards.
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the “Responsible Person” must ensure all systems are properly maintained and fully operational at all times.
At Meritas, we provide expert installation, inspection, and maintenance services to ensure ongoing compliance and performance.
UK regulations and standards:
- BS EN 12101 (Smoke control systems)
- BS EN 1366-10 (Smoke dampers)
- BS 8524 (Fire curtains
Why Choose Meritas?
We combine technical expertise with a practical, hands-on approach to deliver active fire protection systems that perform when it matters most.
Whether you’re managing a high-rise development, commercial facility, or complex refurbishment, we provide the confidence that your fire protection systems will work, every time.
