The Rodillian Academy — 33 m Smoke Curtain Installation

Project Summary

Rodillian Academy, part of the Rodillian Multi-Academy Trust (Wakefield), required a bespoke, large-span smoke-control solution for an open-plan internal space. The aim was to preserve architectural openness and sightlines while ensuring effective smoke compartmentation and safe escape routes.

HAG Ltd. was appointed to design, manufacture and install a single, continuous 33-metre-wide smoke curtain — the Fireguard HS120. The system remains fully concealed under normal operation and deploys automatically on activation of the fire alarm or building management system (BMS).

Technical Scope & Specification

Product & Compliance

• Product: Fireguard HS120 Smoke Curtain; custom-manufactured as a single 33 m span.
• Performance Standard: Compliant with BS EN 12101-1:2005 + A1:2006, with smoke-safe classification D120, providing up to 120 minutes of smoke integrity at elevated temperatures.
• Function: Automatically self-closes on fire alarm or power failure via a 24 V DC motor with gravity fail-safe operation.

Curtain Assembly & Construction

• Curtain constructed from woven glass-fibre and stainless-steel fabric with an intumescent silicone coating for heat resistance and stability.
• Designed as a single continuous curtain to eliminate the need for intermediate supports, maintaining open sightlines.
• Housing integrated within the ceiling void to remain fully concealed when not in use.

Integration & Installation

• Fully integrated into the building’s fire alarm and BMS, with battery backup to ensure deployment under all conditions.
• Installed by HAG’s FIRAS-accredited engineers, ensuring full compliance, traceability and certified workmanship.
• Installation carried out to protect the architectural intent, with the curtain cassette discreetly incorporated into the ceiling structure.

Role in Fire & Smoke Strategy

The HS120 smoke curtain forms a critical part of the Academy’s smoke control and compartmentation strategy. Upon activation, the curtain deploys to prevent the lateral spread of smoke within open-plan areas, supporting safe egress and assisting in maintaining tenable conditions during evacuation. The solution meets the fire-safety design requirements without compromising the building’s open and modern aesthetic.

Outcome & Benefits

• Delivery of a bespoke 33 m smoke curtain with no intermediate supports, preserving open-plan design.
• Effective smoke containment upon activation, supporting the building’s fire-safety strategy and occupant protection.
• Certified product performance combined with accredited installation, giving assurance to architects, specifiers and building owners.
• Fully concealed system ensures minimal visual impact on the architectural environment.

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