Which device restricts smoke flow through an air handling system and is typically activated by the building's fire alarm signaling?

Which device restricts smoke flow through an air handling system and is typically activated by the building's fire alarm signaling?

• A. Fire Damper
• B. Air Handling Damper
• C. Smoke Damper
• D. Smoke Vent

Answer: (C)

Smoke dampers are designed to restrict the movement of smoke through air handling ductwork and are wired to respond to the building’s fire alarm system. When the alarm signals, these dampers close automatically to isolate portions of the ventilation system, helping to keep smoke from spreading to other areas and preserving egress routes. This differs from a fire damper, which closes in response to heat to stop flames from traveling through ducts. An air handling damper is a general control within the HVAC system for regulating airflow, not specifically for smoke containment. A smoke vent is intended to vent smoke out of the building and is not the device used to restrict smoke flow within the air handling path during an alarm.

Smoke dampers are designed to restrict the movement of smoke through air handling ductwork and are wired to respond to the building’s fire alarm system. When the alarm signals, these dampers close automatically to isolate portions of the ventilation system, helping to keep smoke from spreading to other areas and preserving egress routes.

This differs from a fire damper, which closes in response to heat to stop flames from traveling through ducts. An air handling damper is a general control within the HVAC system for regulating airflow, not specifically for smoke containment. A smoke vent is intended to vent smoke out of the building and is not the device used to restrict smoke flow within the air handling path during an alarm.