It is one of the most important components of firefighting systems, where an airway is used to empty the smoke from the site, leading to control of the fire and minimizing losses.

Smoke inhibitors are used to restrict the movement of smoke caused by a fire, as these devices are installed to function automatically, controlled by a smoke detection system, and when needed controlled by a remote control station.

Smoke retardants can be used in HVAC where fans are shut down in the event of a fire, and can also be used in smoke control systems designed to operate during a fire, and smoke retardants are designed to work against air speed and fan pressure.