Fire regulation query

pauleggs

Hi there,
I need some advice on a fire regulation issue. Im currently fitting out a dental surgery on a first floor premises with 2nd floor space also available (attic space). Acess to the 2nd floor is via a stairway. My architect has advised me that a velux window currently present on the attic roof will need to be connected to the fire alrm and have a motor mechanism fitted that in the event of the fire alarm going off , the window will open automatically (to act as a smoke vent) Dublin city council have confirmed this requirement.

The problem i have is that velux will not supply the motor opening mechanism seperately to the window. I will therefore need a new velux window with motor attached. ( new window+motor+ roofing cost = approx 2600-2700 euro. !!!!!!!!!!!!!

The simple solution is obviously to source an opening mechanism for the existing window at a much reduced cost. Is this a possibility? Can someone advise me where i could get this job done.

Thanks in advance Paul

archtech

First question I would ask is the existing velux window of adequate size.

I've never come across a case of having to retrofit the opening device a velux, so I can't comment on an alternative.

stepover

There are various activators, but the problem is likely to be that they will not disengage the lock/vent bar on the velux so I expect you will have to use the proprietary type.
I am surprised that you cannot get the activator separately, as it is possible to get replacement parts. You should get your Architect to contact the Velux rep directly - perhaps you have queried this through a Builders supplier?

BryanF

how would the warranty and fire compliance work with a opener that's fitted to a standard velux?

stepover

According to on line catalogue the gear can be fitted to certain standard velux rooflights. See the Velux FAQs http://www.velux.ie/private/service/faq

focus_mad

This issue arose on a job for a fire cert only the other week for a colleague. The decision was made to buy a seperate motor and install it to the velux. Once that opens the velux yer sorted. Will see if I can find the spec.

sinnerboy

pauleggs wrote: »

The problem i have is that velux will not supply the motor opening mechanism seperately to the window. I will therefore need a new velux window with motor attached. ( new window+motor+ roofing cost = approx 2600-2700 euro. !!!!!!!!!!!!!

Keep looking - talk to agents/re sellers of Velux. Motors can be retro fitted , don't know why you were told otherwise.

sinnerboy

My own experience of the Velux folk in the UK is that they could not try less to be helpful. Local agents - much better.