How does a Curtain Wall System integrate with fire safety and smoke control requirements?

Curtain walls must be detailed to preserve the building’s fire safety strategy and smoke control systems. Although typical glazed curtain walls are not fire-resisting elements, they must not compromise compartmentation: perimeter firestops at floor slab interfaces and vertical cavity barriers are required to prevent vertical fire spread. Spandrel assemblies should use non-combustible or fire-rated cores and be tested for their fire performance; where required, specify fire-rated glazing systems and fire-resistant mullion covers. Fire stops must accommodate thermal movement without losing integrity—intumescent strips and sealants provide expanding protection in the event of fire. Smoke control integrates with the façade via venting provisions and controlled operable vents; façade penetration details for smoke extraction ducts and smoke-proof barriers need coordinated detailing to maintain weather tightness and structural capacity. In jurisdictions across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Central Asia, align curtain wall detailing with local fire codes and authority requirements, and provide tested assemblies with recognized lab reports (e.g., European Reaction to Fire tests, UL or local certified tests). Early involvement of the fire engineer in façade design ensures that façade cavities, ventilation strategies, and façade-mounted equipment do not undermine smoke containment strategies. Finally, provide maintenance protocols to ensure that cavity barriers and intumescent materials remain intact over the building life, preserving the designed fire and smoke control performance.