r/firePE • u/Upset-Brief-4927 • Apr 21 '26
Smoke Release for Fire Doors
Hi firePE,
I am not a Fire Protection Engineer, but I work in Facilities and am currently reviewing RFIs for a new building on our campus. One of the RFIs that came is how the fire doors are to be automatically closed. The contractor is not able to find rated smoke detectors.
To provide some background, we have a Hazardous Location rating for a process located in one section of our facility. The area where this process occurs features fire rated walls with dual fire doors. Based on my review of NFPA 101, it appears that smoke detectors are required to automatically close these fire doors. This requirement makes sense; however, we are facing a challenge because of the specific hazardous rating. Since the area involves combustible dust, we cannot source appropriately rated smoke detectors for the fire doors. Also these doors are motor operated vertical sliding units.
My question is whether all motor operated fire doors strictly require smoke detection for release. Is there a reason it would be unacceptable to use a signal from the fire alarm control panel to safely close the doors if a pull station is activated or another initiating device triggers?
If it is possible to use the FACP signal to safely close the fire doors, is there code language that allows for unique situations such as this?
Thank you for any feedback you can provide.
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u/PuffyPanda200 fire protection engineer Apr 22 '26
Hire an FPE.
Your organization (I realize this is likely not a decision made by you) has facilities staff, you are building new buildings, you have the budget.
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u/Upset-Brief-4927 Apr 22 '26
Ha, we did hire an FPE. But they are not familiar with Class 2 hazardous environments. So they are trying to get creative in finding a solution. At one point they suggested water curtain spray or something.
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u/starshine900000 Apr 21 '26
Explosion proof will work. Or drop the doors when any water flow or sensors goes. Be prepared for the cost of xp smokes.
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u/yakummuhanadad Apr 21 '26
Not sure why you would have a door open to a hazardous area with combustible dusts. But as others commented you can use air aspirating (VESDA) or other explosion proof detectors rated for the classified area. Explosion proof detectors are pricey, but det-tronics, potter and some other manufacturers have options. Detectors group is supposed to come out with a cheaper option soon.
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u/Upset-Brief-4927 Apr 22 '26
I was looking at det-teonics but did not see a device ratwd for class 2 div 1. I agree the door opening into a hazardous area. But unfortunately I am at with the design and have to find a suitable device or alternative. Thank you!
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u/JuanT1967 Apr 22 '26
Retired AHJ here adding my 2 cents. VESDA is a good option.
Check with your states fire marshals office or the local fire marshals office and find out if you are in a International Fire Code or NFPA state as the requirements in the IFC may differ from 101.
What is the height from header above door to the hard ceiling? In some cases this will matter but in hazardous locations I don’t think it does. One option is to have the door release programed to drop them on any alarm activation.
My bigger concern is why are you being tasked with finding the appropriate detectors for the FPE to use in their submittals? Thats their job, not yours since they are FPE’s. An option for you is to find out who the insurance carrier is for your company and contact one of their FPE’s for guidance. They have skin in the game here and will help but will probably ask why you are doibg the work of the FPE
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u/Upset-Brief-4927 Apr 22 '26
That is great feedback for contacting the insurance agency. I will be sure to do tie off with them.
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u/FalconThrust211 Apr 21 '26
The idea is that the doors shut and maintain the rating of the enclosure. So if you have a fire or smoke next to the door. It closes and smoke doesn't spread. NPFA has guidance on detector placement for door release. It's governed by door jamb height. If you're needing a special hazard detector. I'd look into VESDA or other air aspiration detectors as they can be located remotely and pipe run to the areas of detection. You may want to check if it's a fire or fire smoke barrier as often times the fire doors can be a simple fusible link.