Building owners, architects, and facility managers frequently encounter the term "smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system" (SHEVS) when planning windows and facades \u2013 often without knowing exactly what it means. The principle is quite simple: In the event of a fire, a SHEVS automatically ensures that smoke and heat are extracted from the building in a controlled manner before they block escape routes or endanger the supporting structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RWA stands for smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system. In the event of a fire, these systems automatically open windows, skylights, or vents in the facade and roof to allow smoke and hot combustion gases to escape. This keeps stairwells and corridors clear for escape and firefighters, while simultaneously protecting steel and wooden structures from the destructive heat of a fully developed fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If a smoke or fire detector is triggered, the smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (SHEV) control panel sends a signal to the electric window actuators, which automatically open the designated smoke extraction areas. Each system can also be manually activated via a manual release, for example, by emergency responders on site. To ensure this process functions reliably in an emergency, the system is also protected by an emergency power supply in the event of a power outage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A typical smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system consists of four components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In many buildings, the same window actuators handle both fire protection and everyday ventilation \u2013 for example, in stairwells, factory halls, or office buildings. We explain in detail how both functions can be effectively combined in a single system in our article. RWA and daily ventilation<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because a smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system (SHEVS) must function flawlessly in an emergency, reliability is paramount, more so than with any other building technology. Drive quality, compliance with standards \u2013 including DIN 18232 \u2013 and regular maintenance determine whether the system will actually activate in the event of a fire. A detailed overview can be found in our article. Quality criteria for window drives<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system (SHEVS) is therefore much more than just a window that opens: it's a safety-relevant system comprising sensors, controls, and drive technology that can save lives in an emergency. When planning, it's worthwhile to consider the drive type, quality, and installation situation together from the outset \u2013 we would be happy to advise you personally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read more:<\/strong> RWA vs. NRWG: What is the difference?<\/a> \u00b7 RWA and daily ventilation<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat matters when it comes to the quality of a smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system (SHEVS).<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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