There are several preventive measures that are now being integrated and installed into new residential and commercial developments. A Smoke Ventilation System incorporated into the early design concept does increase the ability of the end users to escape in the event of a fire emergency. Operable high level windows that are linked to the Building Management System can be opened within seconds of the smoke being detected.

What can happen in fire emergencies is that power can be lost and therefore compromise the operation of the system. To overcome this, a failsafe battery backup with fire rated cabling can be installed to ensure the effectiveness of the windows even with the loss of mains power.

On a commercial scale, Unique Window Services has been involved with some of Brisbane's most recent landmark projects. Brisbane Central, located on Queen Street Mall, consisted of two conjoining stages; firstly refurbishing the old T and G Building; the second was a completely new building on Albert Street. Smoke dispersal systems were installed into each building with electrically operated awning sashes which were strategically placed into various areas of the buildings to create a pathway for smoke to escape. Linked directly to the building management system and a battery backup these windows will open immediately upon smoke detection.

The second project of note is Portside Wharf at Hamilton. Our role here was to automate the high level windows in the common areas to create a smoke vent. Not only does the opening of these windows allow the built up gases a way to escape, it is an ongoing process where the continued diversion of the smoke is allowed. The increased visibility not only helps the occupants escape but also assists with emergency personnel to gain access to the effected space, identify the cause and extinguish the fire.

Unique Window Services have been servicing the window industry for the past 20 years. We specialise in energy efficient automated window controls and welcome your call if you have any questions or would like a meeting regarding what can be achieved.

Brisbane Central
Product: UCS Supermaster Chain Winder

Located in the Queen Street Mall and consisting of two stages; the first refurbishing the old T&G Building; the second was a completely new 11 storey building on the corner of Albert and Elizabeth Street. Due to the building being heritage listed there were many compliance issues which expanded over 7 years before completion. The main focal point and objective was to create a sustainable building that incorporates traditional and innovative design aspects.

Unique Window Services installed a smoke dispersal system into both buildings. Strategically placed throughout the buildings were operable windows wired to the building management system (BMS). Within seconds of smoke detection, low voltage actuators with fail-safe battery backup systems receive a signal from the smoke alarm, driving the windows open allowing smoke to escape and more time for evacuation.

Portside Wharf
Product: UCS Supermaster Chain Winder

Our role in this development was to automate the high level windows in common areas to create a smoke vent. Within seconds of smoke being detected our motors are engaged through the Building Management System. The opening of these windows allows both the immediate escape of any built up smoke and other harmful gases and provides the continued means of diversion for these dangerous elements.

The purging of these gases increases visibility for patrons and the time that they have to escape in the case of a fire emergency. The increased visibility also allows emergency personnel a greater chance of identifying and dealing with the issue and bringing the situation under control in a timely manner. To ensure the ongoing functionality of the motors, should the mains power fail, also installed at Portside Wharf is a battery back-up system.