Fire and Smoke Curtains | Code-Compliant Retractable Safety Barriers

Retractable fire and smoke curtains deploy automatically to contain flames and smoke while preserving open architectural spaces. At Wilcox Door Service Inc., we supply, install, and service high-performance curtain barriers throughout the Greater Toronto Area, ensuring reliable life-safety protection and code compliance.

What Are Fire & Smoke Curtains?

Fire and smoke curtains are motorized or gravity-fail-safe fabric barriers that remain hidden above ceilings or walls and automatically deploy during fire or smoke emergencies. Once activated, these curtains form a protective barrier to:

Block the spread of flames and smoke
Protect escape routes and building openings
Assist HVAC and smoke control systems in compartmentalizing zones

These systems are ideal for spaces where architectural aesthetics are important, or where physical doors would interfere with daily building operations.

Key Features & Benefits

Experience automatic deployment, UL-rated fire protection, and concealed installation for seamless smoke containment and code compliance.

1. Automatic Deployment

Curtains deploy via fire alarm or smoke detection systems, using either motorized or gravity-fail-safe operation.

2. Compact and Concealed

Housed in small ceiling-mounted headboxesthat preserve architectural designs and open spaces.

3. Fire Rated Protection

Up to 2-hour fire ratings in accordance with UL 10D, UL 1784, and NFPA 105.

4. Smoke Containment

Certified smoke barriers that help control and direct smoke for safe egress and smoke control system support.

5. Fail-Safe Technology

Gravity-fed systems ensure curtain deployment even during power loss.

6. Custom Sizing

Tailored to openings from small wall openings to multi-story atriums and stairwells.

7. Optional Side Guides or Bottom Bars

For increased sealing and compliance with smoke leakage standards.

Applications

Fire and smoke curtains are ideal for a wide range of life safety and code-compliant applications:

Elevator Lobbies

Replace fire-rated doors while maintaining accessibility and open design.

Atriums and Malls

Control smoke movement in open spaces without bulky walls or doors.

Corridors and Egress Routes

Protect evacuation pathways during fire emergencies.

Stairwells and Escalators

Compartmentalize vertical openings to slow fire and smoke travel.

Open Floor Plans

Maintain open aesthetics without compromising life safety.

Underground Parking Areas

Control smoke spread in subterranean spaces.

Code Compliance & Testing

All fire and smoke curtain systems we install are tested and listed in accordance with leading North American and international fire safety standards:

UL 10D – Fire Protective Curtains

Evaluates the performance of curtains used as fire-protective openings.

UL 1784 – Air Leakage Tests

Measures smoke leakage through curtain assemblies.

NFPA 105 – Smoke Door Assemblies and Other Opening Protectives

Establishes performance requirements for smoke-control systems.

IBC (International Building Code)

Requires fire and smoke protection for various openings.

NBC (National Building Code of Canada)

Enforces fire and smoke containment for vertical and horizontal openings in commercial construction.

Real-World Safety Applications

Fire and smoke curtains have been successfully used in high-risk environments where traditional doors were not feasible. Notable examples include:

Grenfell Tower Tragedy Review (UK)

Fire safety reviews post-Grenfell highlighted the importance of passive smoke barriers in vertical shafts like elevator lobbies and stairwells. While curtains weren’t present in that case, newer codes now recommend their use for such applications.

Toronto Union Station Revitalization

Fire and smoke curtains have been used to maintain the architectural openness of large atriums while meeting fire code requirements for compartmentalization.

Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

In several Ontario hospitals, smoke curtains are used in elevator lobbies and ICU corridors to avoid heavy fire doors that could limit access during emergencies.

These systems continue to be specified in airports, malls, and government buildings due to their effectiveness, flexibility, and code compliance.

Why Choose Wilcox Door Service Inc.?

With decades of experience in loading dock solutions, Wilcox Door Service Inc. delivers high-quality Retractable Truck Shelters that enhance efficiency, adaptability, and durability.

Manufactured in Ontario, Canada – Ensuring top-tier quality, fast delivery, and reduced environmental impact.
Advanced Engineering – Designed for high-traffic operations with flexible, retractable frames to maximize efficiency.
Premium Materials – Built with reinforced steel and weather-resistant fabrics for superior protection.
Energy Savings & Rebates – Can help businesses reduce operational costs, with potential Enbridge Energy Savings Program
Dedicated Customer Support – Our team provides expert assistance, from installation to ongoing maintenance.

Contact Us for Fire & Smoke Curtain Solutions

Protect your building and its occupants with advanced fire and smoke curtain systems from Wilcox Door Service Inc. Contact us today for expert consultation, system design, and installation support.

5502 Timberlea Blvd,
Mississauga, ON, L4W 2T7