SHEV Systems

Smoke ventilation systems (also referred to as SHEV – Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation) are critical safety installations designed to remove smoke, heat, and toxic gases from buildings in the event of a fire. By rapidly channeling smoke to the outside, these systems keep escape and rescue routes accessible, reduce the risk of smoke inhalation, and protect the building’s structure from excessive heat.

Modern smoke ventilation systems can be natural (using roof openings such as skylights, louvres, or flaps) or mechanical (using powered fans and ducts). Often, they are combined with skylights or façade openings to provide dual functionality: daylight and fresh air during normal operation, and life-saving smoke extraction during emergencies.

Applications include residential complexes, office buildings, industrial facilities, shopping centers, and public infrastructure such as airports and train stations. In addition to fulfilling strict fire safety regulations, smoke ventilation systems contribute to overall building safety concepts and can be integrated with climate and ventilation strategies to provide added value beyond their core function.