What is it called if air is immediately drawn back into the building because of an incompletely sealed smoke ejector?

The phenomenon where air is drawn back into a building due to an incompletely sealed smoke ejector is referred to as recirculation. This occurs when the ejector, which is designed to expel smoke and heat from a structure, fails to create a complete seal or is improperly positioned. As a result, it may inadvertently allow smoke and potentially toxic gases to flow back inside instead of facilitating their removal.

Recirculation is particularly dangerous during firefighting operations because it can lead to a buildup of smoke and hazardous conditions within the structure. Proper sealing and positioning of smoke ejectors are crucial to ensure that they function effectively and do not compromise the safety of both firefighters and occupants inside the building.

Understanding this concept is essential for firefighters, as it highlights the importance of equipment integrity and the proper setup of ventilation strategies during an emergency response.