Smoke Control Systems for the Custodial Sector
At Delta we design and build compliant smoke control systems. We work closely with a range of Tier 1 Main Contractors and Principle Design Leads in developing and co-ordinating compliant smoke ventilation systems into existing and new build custodial buildings, meeting all the Ministry of Justices relevant design standards and regulations
Smoke control is crucial in the custodial sector.
It helps to protect lives, improve visibility, facilitate firefighting operations, minimise property damage, and it must comply with the latest MOJ standards and regulations.
In the event of a fire, smoke is a significant threat to the occupants of a custodial facility. Staff, prisoners and first responders’ safety must be prioritised. Smoke inhalation can lead to serious respiratory problems, suffocation, or even death. Effective smoke control measures help prevent the spread of smoke, allowing occupants to evacuate safely and providing more time for emergency responders to conduct rescue operations.
Smoke can severely reduce visibility within a building, making it difficult for occupants to find exits or navigate to safety. Custodial facilities often have complex layouts with multiple rooms and corridors, and maintaining clear visibility during a fire emergency is crucial for quick and efficient evacuation.
Smoke control measures also facilitate the work of firefighters by minimizing the amount of smoke they encounter when entering a burning building. Improved visibility allows firefighters to locate and suppress the fire more effectively, reducing property damage and the risk of injury to both occupants and emergency responders.
Smoke can cause extensive damage to buildings, contents, and infrastructure. It can corrode equipment, stain surfaces, and leave behind lingering odours. Effective smoke control systems help contain smoke to the area of origin, limiting the extent of damage caused by smoke infiltration into other parts of the facility. Read more about the importance of maintaining smoke control systems in prisons.
We understand security
Custodial environments demand robust, tamper‑resistant systems that support segregation and controlled movement without compromising security. Our smoke control solutions are designed with secure zones, anti‑ligature considerations and restricted access to controls, so they integrate safely with existing prison security protocols.
We appreciate the unique dynamics of a prison evacuation
Unlike many other buildings, a full evacuation is rarely possible in a prison, so protecting refuge areas and staff routes is critical. We design smoke control strategies that support progressive evacuation, safe staff intervention and clear access for first responders, even in complex multi‑wing layouts.
We understand the unique monitoring requirement
Custodial teams need continuous assurance that systems are operating correctly and that any faults are identified and addressed promptly. Our control and monitoring solutions provide clear status indication, integration with existing BMS and fire alarm systems, and simple, secure interfaces that support 24/7 operation and audit trails
The Delta Approach
Designing
Installing
Commissioning
Maintaining
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO) remains the primary fire safety legislation for non-domestic premises in England and Wales and has applied to prisons since it came into force in October 2006, replacing over 70 previous pieces of fire safety law.
Since the Grenfell Tower fire, the RRO has been strengthened by the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Building Safety Act 2022, which together expand duties on duty holders and introduce the “golden thread” of building safety information, more rigorous digital record‑keeping and clearer accountability for fire and structural safety.
In the same period, additional regulations and guidance have increased expectations around routine fire door inspections, evacuation planning for vulnerable occupants (including the rollout of enhanced PEEPs), and evidencing ongoing compliance.
The March 2022 HM Prisons and Probation Service fire safety instruction for prison establishments remains the key custodial interpretation of the RRO, but it now operates within this wider post‑Grenfell framework of heightened scrutiny and enforcement, where failure to comply can lead to unlimited fines and criminal prosecution for responsible persons.
We have the expertise and the experience to advise, assist and design effective smoke control systems for even the largest prison estate.
Compliance with these regulations is essential to ensure the safety of occupants and avoid legal consequences. Adequate smoke control measures help custodial facilities meet these requirements and maintain a safe environment for everyone.
Give us a call on 023 9286 3888 and see how we can help you.
Our Customers
We’ve worked with a wide range of clients over the years – many of them subcontractors on large development projects – delivering for some of the biggest and most successful global companies.
