An RWA plan (smoke and heat extraction system plan) is a special plan within the fire brigade plan and is one of the central elements of preventive fire protection documentation. It is created in accordance with DIN 14095 and clearly shows the different smoke and heat extraction groups and their control points. The aim is to enable rapid, needs-based smoke extraction in the event of a fire – without any loss of time.
RWA plan supports emergency services
The smoke and heat extraction plan provides targeted support to fire and rescue services in terms of orientation. It provides information about the type, location and activation of smoke and heat extraction systems (e.g. smoke extraction and heat extraction flaps) in a building. This enables emergency services to respond immediately in the event of a fire and initiate targeted smoke extraction to keep escape routes smoke-free and facilitate firefighting.
An RWA plan is drawn up following a site-specific inspection and in close consultation with the responsible fire brigade or fire protection service.
Content and design of an RWA plan
A professionally designed RWA plan includes, among other things, a representation of the RWA groups and their control points, as well as colour coding for better orientation.
It is created in DIN A3 format as standard – on request, it can also be produced in extra-long format and with protective lamination to ensure that it remains robust and legible during use.
Legal requirements and standards
In many cases, the creation of a smoke and heat extraction plan is required by law – especially in special buildings such as industrial facilities, shopping centres, schools or places of assembly. Among other things, DIN 14095 (fire brigade plans) and DIN 18232 (smoke and heat extraction) form the basis for this.
An up-to-date, standard-compliant smoke and heat extraction plan as part of the fire brigade plan is often a prerequisite for official approval and acceptance of a building. It also serves as a basis for maintenance, testing and risk assessments.
Good to know: An RWA plan is not only an integral part of the fire brigade plan, but is also created individually for each control point of the RWA system. These plans are often only available in handy A4 or A5 format.
Who benefits from an RWA plan?
An RWA plan as part of the fire brigade plan is primarily aimed at the fire brigade, as it is created specifically for their needs and is usually only available to them.
RWA plans for each control station, on the other hand, offer added value to numerous parties. They support safety officers and facility managers in the efficient control of operating and maintenance processes. Architects and specialist planners benefit from standard-compliant building design, while authorities, fire protection services and fire brigades can use these plans for operational preparation and risk minimisation. In addition, they help companies to reliably fulfil their operator obligations.
Safety through structured planning
An RWA plan is much more than just mandatory documentation. It is an important tool in the event of a fire, helping emergency services to act quickly and save lives. It increases safety in buildings and supports companies in implementing fire protection in accordance with legal requirements through its detailed and standard-compliant presentation.
Frequently asked questions
What is an RWA plan in fire protection?
An RWA plan shows the smoke and heat extraction systems in a building, including the trigger points. On the one hand, it is a special plan within the fire brigade plan. On the other hand, it is created for each control point of the RWA system.
When is an RWA plan required?
Whenever RWA systems are present – especially in special buildings with high footfall.
Who draws up the fire safety plan?
Specialised companies such as CWS Fire Safety – after an inspection of the property and in consultation with the fire brigade.
In what format is an RWA plan executed?
Usually in A3 format, optionally also in extra-long format and with protective lamination.