All Things Smoke Control

Let’s be real — nobody’s ever bragged about their smoke control system at a dinner party. But when the unthinkable happens, these behind-the-scenes systems quietly become the most important thing in your building.

And here’s the kicker: smoke control systems are among the most commonly cited fire protection violations in Washington. Miss an inspection or fail to provide proper documentation, and you could be staring down steep fines before you even know there’s a problem.

🔹 What Is a Smoke Control System?

Smoke control systems are designed to manage smoke during a fire — keeping escape routes clear, protecting stairwells and corridors, and giving occupants valuable time to evacuate safely.

You’ll find them in:

• High-rise buildings
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Parking garages
• Shopping centers
• Large commercial complexes

Think of them as your building’s “smoke traffic cops” — directing dangerous fumes away from people when it matters most.

🔹 Why Testing Matters

Testing isn’t just a box to check — it’s how you ensure the system works when lives depend on it. Annual inspections can uncover:

• Fans that don’t engage because of electrical or motor issues
• Dampers that stick shut instead of opening during an alarm
• Sensor or panel malfunctions that prevent proper activation
• Documentation gaps that lead to fire marshal citations and fines

Bottom line: if these systems don’t perform correctly, evacuation routes can fill with smoke — creating dangerous conditions and potential liability.

🔹 What’s Included in a Test

When our team inspects smoke control systems, we verify that:

• All fans and dampers activate as designed
• Sensors and alarms communicate properly
• Stairwell and corridor pressurization is working
• The system integrates with alarms and sprinklers
• Full reports are provided for your compliance records

🔹 Why Property Managers Should Prioritize This

• Tenant Safety: Clear evacuation paths protect lives.
• Code Compliance: Smoke control testing is one of the most fined fire protection violations — staying proactive prevents costly penalties.
• Risk Reduction: Documented testing helps protect you from liability.

At AAA Fire Protection, we provide full smoke control system testing and inspection services for Seattle’s commercial buildings. Our experts ensure your system is reliable, safe, and — most importantly — compliant.

👉 Contact AAA Fire today to schedule your annual smoke control inspection and avoid becoming the next citation on the fire marshal’s list