In fire protection, what is the primary purpose of smoke control systems?

The primary purpose of smoke control systems is to restrict smoke movement during a fire event. These systems are designed to manage and limit the spread of smoke in order to maintain visibility, reduce toxic inhalation hazards, and provide a safer environment for occupants to evacuate as well as for firefighters to conduct their operations. By effectively controlling smoke, these systems enhance life safety and property protection by creating smoke-free zones or directing smoke away from escape routes.

Detection of fire, cooling the fire, and warning occupants are critical measures in fire protection and emergency response but are not the main function of smoke control systems. While smoke detectors identify fire presence, cooling methods aim to suppress flames, and alarm systems inform occupants of danger, smoke control systems specifically focus on the behavior and movement of smoke to improve safety and evacuation efficiency.