Smoke Ventilation systems (SHEVS)
Apex Engineering leads the way in advanced smoke ventilation, with systems designed to protect lives by extracting smoke efficiently through state-of-the-art, roof-mounted smoke vents. Our solutions ensure rapid smoke clearance in compliance with EN 12101-2, providing a first line of defense in critical situations. In addition to our robust smoke vents, we deliver full EN 12101-9 and EN 12101-10 control panels, creating a seamless, turnkey solution that meets every aspect of EN 12101 and SANS 10400 Part T standards. From high-performance ventilators to integrated control systems, Apex Engineering is committed to precision, compliance, and innovation—ensuring your spaces remain safeguarded under the toughest conditions.
Multipurpose Ventilators

Features
1. Natural day-to-day ventilation systems
2. Natural smoke exhaust in case of fire
3. No fan power consumption required
4. Compliance with the EN 12101-2
5. CE certified, for all the options
Specifications
1. Material: ZincAlume or Galvanised
2. Standard Chromadek©, Standard COLORPLUS©, standard RAL colours
3. Installation angle: Flat roof up to 15° inclination or monitor of 45°
4. Opening mechanism: 24V linear actuator or 24V spring return actuator
5. Fusible link temperatures: 74°C, 100°C, 138°C, 182°C or 232°C
Add-ons
1. Up-Stands up to 150mm
2. Wind deflector up to 50mm
3. Optional Bird Mesh
4. Optional Burglar Bars
Performance and Classification
1. Material: ZincAlume or Galvanised
2. Standard Chromadek©, Standard COLORPLUS©, standard RAL colours
3. Installation angle: Flat roof up to 15° inclination or monitor of 45°
4. Opening mechanism: 24V linear actuator or 24V spring return actuator
5. Fusible link temperatures: 74°C, 100°C, 138°C, 182°C or 232°C
Automated Wall Louvers (AWL)

Features
1. Natural day-to-day ventilation systems
2. Natural smoke exhaust in case of fire
3. No fan power consumption required
4. Compliance with the EN 12101-2
Specifications
1. Material: ZincAlume or Galvanised
2. Standard Chromadek©, Standard COLORPLUS©, standard RAL colours
3. Installation Vertical
4. Opening mechanism: 24V linear actuator or 24V spring return actuator
5. Fusible link temperatures: 74°C, 100°C, 138°C, 182°C or 232°C
Add-ons
1. Optional Bird Mesh
2. Optional Burglar Bars
Performance and Classification
1. Certified – EN12101-2
2. Wind Load: WL2300
3. Resistance to heat: B 300
4. Reaction to Fire classification (Steel): A1
Rational Fire Design FAQ's
What are smoke ventilators, and why are they essential for building safety?
Smoke ventilators, or smoke vents, are devices designed to automatically open in case of a fire, allowing smoke and hot gases to escape. They enhance visibility and air quality, supporting safe evacuation and enabling firefighters to access the building more safely.
Why is EN 12101-2 certification important for smoke ventilators?
EN 12101-2 certification ensures that smoke ventilators meet stringent standards for performance and reliability under fire conditions. Certified vents are tested to withstand extreme environments, providing assurance that they will function effectively in emergencies, as required by international and South African regulations.
How do smoke ventilators comply with SANS 10400 Part T and EN 12101-2 standards?
SANS 10400 Part T sets the fire protection regulations in South Africa, while EN 12101-2 specifies European performance standards for smoke and heat control systems. Our smoke ventilators are fully compliant with both standards, ensuring enhanced safety and regulatory compliance.
What types of smoke ventilation systems does Apex Engineering offer?
Apex Engineering provides natural and mechanical smoke ventilation solutions, including EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilators, louvered ventilators, and mechanical extraction systems. We tailor these to meet the specific needs of each building.
Can EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilators be integrated with existing fire detection and alarm systems?
Yes, our EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilators integrate seamlessly with fire detection and alarm systems, allowing for automatic activation during fire incidents to enable efficient smoke extraction.
What maintenance is required for EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilation systems?
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the reliability of smoke ventilation systems. Apex Engineering provides periodic inspections and servicing, which keeps systems compliant with EN 12101-2 and SANS 10400 Part T standards.
Are EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilators suitable for all building types?
Yes, we offer EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilation solutions suitable for commercial, industrial, and residential buildings, customizing them to match each building’s architectural and safety needs.
How can smoke ventilators be used for natural ventilation in factories or production areas?
By installing smoke ventilators, factories and production facilities can leverage natural ventilation to release excess heat generated by machinery. This not only supports indoor air quality but also reduces the demand for mechanical cooling, enhancing the building’s energy efficiency and lowering operational costs.
What are the benefits of smoke ventilators for temperature control in industrial settings?
In addition to emergency smoke extraction, smoke ventilators can function as part of a Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation System (SHEVS) to provide day-to-day natural ventilation in large production areas. This helps dissipate excess heat and improve air circulation during regular operations, creating a more comfortable working environment and reducing the need for mechanical cooling, which can lower energy costs.
What is the lifespan of an EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilation system?
With regular maintenance, EN 12101-2-certified smoke ventilation systems are designed for long-term reliability, providing years of dependable service and safety.