Are doors in smoke partitions required to include louvers?

Doors in smoke partitions are not required to include louvers because the primary function of smoke partitions is to resist the passage of smoke and ensure the integrity of smoke barriers. Louvers can create openings that facilitate smoke movement, which would undermine the effectiveness of the smoke partitions. Instead, doors in these scenarios are typically designed to be tight-fitting and self-closing to prevent the migration of smoke from one area to another.

In buildings where smoke control is critical, any openings in partitions should be avoided unless absolutely necessary for functionality. When doors are installed in smoke partitions, they should conform to the design and materials specified to maintain the integrity of the partition, which generally excludes the installation of louvers. The standard practice emphasizes creating a continuous barrier against smoke unless unique circumstances or specific design requirements indicate otherwise.