Automatic Opening Smoke Vent - Do Not Obstruct - Safety Signs by Caledonia Signs

An Automatic Opening Smoke Vent – Do Not Obstruct safety sign is used to ensure that smoke vents in a building remain clear and fully operational during a fire. These vents automatically open to release smoke and hot gases, improving visibility, reducing inhalation risks, and maintaining safe evacuation routes. Any obstruction, such as stored equipment or materials, can prevent the vent from functioning effectively, endangering occupants and increasing property damage.

The sign acts as a constant visual reminder that the area around the smoke vent must remain unobstructed at all times. By keeping access clear, the vent can operate as intended, helping to control smoke spread, improve evacuation conditions, and assist emergency responders in managing the situation efficiently. This contributes to overall fire safety and regulatory compliance.

These signs are typically installed near automatic smoke vents in areas where obstructions might occur. Common locations include warehouses, factories, large commercial buildings, shopping centres, hospitals, schools, theatres, and multi-storey buildings. Placement should ensure that the sign is clearly visible to all staff, contractors, and visitors who may have access to the area.

Using an Automatic Opening Smoke Vent – Do Not Obstruct sign reinforces a culture of fire safety awareness. It reminds everyone that maintaining clear access is a shared responsibility and is essential for the proper functioning of life-saving smoke ventilation systems. By following this guidance, organisations can reduce fire hazards, protect lives, and minimise damage during emergencies.

Materials Explained

Below is a more detailed description of the materials this particular safety sign is available in. Helping you decide which sign option is most suitable for your application.

Rigid Plastic: This lightweight, gloss white PVC is resistant to weather, moisture, chemicals, and general wear and tear, making it suitable for harsh environments. Its smooth, solid surface allows for crisp printing of text and graphics, enhancing readability and visual impact. Businesses who choose Rigid Plastic signs benefit from fewer replacements and minimal maintenance, making it a practical investment for reliable and effective safety signs.

Self-Adhesive Vinyl: Self-adhesive vinyl is easy to apply and it is budget-friendly. Its adhesive backing allows for easy application to a variety of surfaces such as glass, metal, plastic, and painted walls, which simplifies installation and reduces setup time. Self-adhesive vinyl provides a clean, professional finish that suits many indoor environments including offices, retail, industrial sites, and vehicles. It is more affordable than many other material types and allows for custom shapes, colours, and graphics.

To achieve high performance in low light conditions and conform to ISO 16069 we recommend using Ultra Bright.

Ultra Bright Photoluminescent Rigid Plastic: Ultra Bright rigid plastic has a photoluminescent (glow in the dark) pigmentation which offers a highly effective, reliable, and energy-free visibility in low-light or blackout conditions, making them ideal for emergency exit applications. The afterglow properties exceed PSPA Class C grade, as measured to DIN 6751, provides razor sharp definition in blackout conditions.

Ultra Bright Photoluminescent Self Adhesive: Ultra Bright self adhesive vinyl is a flexible PVC with photoluminescent (glow in the dark) pigmentation. The self-adhesive backing enables quick, tool-free application on smooth, clean surfaces like walls and doors. The afterglow properties exceed PSPA Class C grade, as measured to DIN 6751, provides razor sharp definition in blackout conditions, making them ideal for emergency escape applications.