Edinburgh’s Waldorf Astoria upgrades fire safety with Hyfire wireless system

by Featured NewsProjects

Hyfire wireless system installed at historic Edinburgh hotel

Hyfire has reported that its wireless fire alarm system has been installed at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian.

More than 1,300 Taurus wireless devices were deployed across the seven-storey hotel, covering 240 guest rooms and multiple communal areas.

The installation was carried out by Marlowe Fire and Security.

The project was completed without requiring room closures, minimising disruption to guests.

The wireless system was chosen to accommodate the hotel’s architectural constraints, which would have made a wired system more challenging to install.

Historic building presents installation challenges

The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh, originally part of the former Caledonian Station, has been a landmark on Princes Street since 1903.

Its historic structure and layout made fire system upgrades particularly complex.

Dan Thorburn, Project Commissioning Engineer at Marlowe Fire and Security, said: “The Waldorf Caledonian isn’t just any hotel; it’s a monument to Edinburgh’s grand past and its vibrant present.

“Taking on this project was a big test journey for us, combining modern safety requirements with the delicate preservation of heritage.”

He added that maintaining the hotel’s operational status throughout the project was a key priority.

He explained: “The architectural complexities combined with our commitment to an uninterrupted guest experience—the whole hotel remained open throughout—created unique challenges.”

Advantages of wireless fire alarm systems for hotels

Installing modern fire alarm systems in historic hotels presents difficulties due to structural constraints.

Traditional wired systems can require extensive modifications, which may be disruptive or require approval from heritage authorities.

Hyfire’s Taurus Wireless Fire Alarm System reduces installation complexity by using 90% less wiring than conventional systems.

The devices can be pre-configured off-site, enabling a faster and less intrusive installation.

Thorburn said: “Hyfire’s wireless devices offered a path that traditional systems couldn’t.

“By utilising 90% less wiring, we were not only able to significantly reduce installation complexities, but also ensured the hotel’s existing fire alarm system could operate unhindered until our new system was fully commissioned.”

Preserving heritage while ensuring safety

Due to the building’s historic status, any modifications require clearance from Historic Environment Scotland.

Wireless technology allowed for a system upgrade without altering the hotel’s structure.

Robert Bruce, National Key Account Manager at Hyfire, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be part of such a prestigious project.

“Hyfire wireless devices are designed for situations exactly like this, where the demands of the historic built environment require flexible yet uncompromising solutions.”

He added that the new system ensures fire safety while maintaining the integrity of the hotel’s heritage.

Edinburgh’s Waldorf Astoria upgrades fire safety with wireless system: Summary

Hyfire has reported that more than 1,300 of its Taurus wireless fire alarm devices have been installed at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian.

The installation, completed by Marlowe Fire and Security, covered 240 guest rooms and communal areas without requiring room closures.

The hotel’s historic structure presented challenges for installing a wired system, making a wireless solution preferable.

Hyfire’s system, using 90% less wiring, allowed for minimal disruption and faster deployment.

The installation was carried out while maintaining the hotel’s existing fire alarm system until commissioning was complete.

Heritage considerations required approval from Historic Environment Scotland.

The wireless system enabled fire safety enhancements without structural modifications.

Hyfire stated that the project demonstrates how modern fire protection can be integrated into historic buildings while preserving their architectural integrity.

Mansion House installs Hyfire wireless fire system in safety upgrade

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjectsSafety

Mansion House fire safety modernised with wireless system

Mansion House, the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London, has been upgraded with a new wireless fire alarm system supplied by Hyfire.

According to Hyfire, the Grade I listed building now features its Taurus wireless devices, installed by Square Mile Fire and Security within a five-week timeframe.

The upgrade was completed while the main part of the property was temporarily closed.

The new system replaces an older conventional fire alarm with an addressable wireless system, designed to provide comprehensive coverage without requiring extensive rewiring.

The historical significance of Mansion House

Mansion House, completed in the 1740s, was built as a residence for the Lord Mayor of London, a role that dates back almost 1,000 years.

Its construction was funded through a by-law that required elected officials who refused to serve to pay a fine.

This practice disproportionately affected Rational Dissenters, who could not take office without participating in Anglican sacraments.

This controversial method of raising funds allowed the City of London Corporation to collect £15,000, financing the construction of the building.

The practice was later referenced by Mark Twain in A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.

Installing the new system within strict time constraints

Hyfire reported that the installation process was completed within a restricted timeframe of five weeks.

Square Mile Fire and Security installed 500 devices throughout the building.

James Booth from Square Mile Fire and Security said: “It was a real honour getting to work on this Grade I listed historic building.

“Thanks to Hyfire’s easy to install Taurus system, my team and I were able to get the whole system installed incredibly fast, which delighted the client.”

The system was selected due to its wireless capability, which eliminated the need for disruptive cabling work in the historic structure.

Hyfire’s background in fire safety solutions

Hyfire was established in 2007 and introduced some of the first commercial wireless fire detection and alarm devices certified to EN54 standards.

The company’s devices include a five-year warranty and are supported by a partner programme for installation, commissioning, and technical support.

Hyfire stated that the installation at Mansion House aligns with its ongoing mission to enhance fire safety in historic and complex buildings while minimising disruption.

Mansion House installs Hyfire wireless fire system in safety upgrade: Summary

Mansion House, the Lord Mayor of London’s residence, has been equipped with a new Hyfire wireless fire alarm system.

The upgrade was completed by Square Mile Fire and Security within five weeks during a scheduled closure of the building’s main area.

The system includes 500 wireless devices and replaces an older conventional alarm with an addressable network.

The decision to use wireless technology was made to avoid major disruption to the Grade I listed building.

Hyfire was launched in 2007 and specialises in wireless fire detection solutions certified to EN54.

The company provides a five-year warranty on its devices and offers ongoing support through its partner programme.

Hyfire fire safety system installed at Beckford’s Tower in Bath

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Fire safety system installed at historic site in Bath

Hyfire’s Taurus wireless fire devices have been installed at Beckford’s Tower in Bath as part of a fire safety upgrade.

Almost 100 devices were fitted within a hybrid system designed to protect the structure while preserving its 19th-century architecture.

Beckford’s Tower, originally built as a retreat for writer and collector William Beckford, now houses a museum showcasing his furniture and artwork.

The fire system installation was carried out by PRW Group using Hyfire’s TauREX software to ensure minimal impact on the historic interiors.

Luke Batchelar, Operations and Technical Manager at PRW Group, said: “Hyfire’s Taurus devices were selected for their unmatched ability to meld cutting-edge fire technology with the stringent requirements of heritage conservation.

The strategically planned installation, specified using Hyfire’s TauREX software, ensured that the tower’s architectural integrity and historical significance were meticulously preserved while substantially elevating its fire safety standards.”

Wireless system designed for heritage buildings

The installation at Beckford’s Tower is part of a broader approach to applying modern fire safety solutions to historic sites.

Wireless fire systems, such as Taurus, are often used in buildings where traditional wired systems could be intrusive or disruptive.

Richard Williams, Regional Sales Manager – South West at Hyfire, said: “Protecting Beckford’s Tower with modern fire systems while preserving its historical essence was our top priority.

“This meticulously planned installation showcases how Hyfire’s wireless fire technology can be adapted to respect and safeguard heritage sites, with rapid implementation and radically reduced time on site.”

Features of the Hyfire Taurus system

Taurus, developed in Trieste, Italy, incorporates Pathfinder Technology, which enables communication over 1km in open air and further with expansion hops.

The system’s antenna technology allows it to operate across multiple frequencies and environments, reducing the number of devices and batteries required.

The hybrid system at Beckford’s Tower was designed to integrate wireless components with minimal disruption, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations while maintaining the building’s structural integrity.

Fire safety and conservation efforts

The installation aims to protect the museum’s collection and the structure itself, allowing public access to continue with improved safety measures.

A spokesperson for Beckford’s Tower said: “The protection of our visitors and preservation of our history is paramount.

“Hyfire’s wireless hybrid solution has addressed our needs with minimal intrusion, ensuring that Beckford’s Tower can be enjoyed safely for years to come.”

Hyfire fire safety system installed at Beckford’s Tower in Bath: Summary

Hyfire’s Taurus wireless fire devices have been installed at Beckford’s Tower in Bath as part of a fire safety upgrade.

PRW Group carried out the installation, ensuring minimal impact on the historic structure.

The wireless system was chosen due to its adaptability to heritage buildings.

The Taurus system, developed in Trieste, Italy, features Pathfinder Technology, allowing for long-range communication and reduced equipment needs.

The installation aims to safeguard the museum’s collection and visitor access while complying with fire safety regulations.

Fire protection enhanced at Thornton College with Hyfire system

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Wireless fire alarm system installed at Thornton College

Thornton College, an all-girls school in Buckinghamshire, has upgraded its fire alarm system with Hyfire’s wireless technology.

The installation involved four control panels connected to more than 740 Taurus wireless fire safety devices, replacing the previous wired system.

Oakpark Alarms Security Services Ltd carried out the installation.

Stuart Fuller, Fire Division Manager at Oakpark Alarms, said: “It was a wireless system due to the complexity of the building.

“It’s a grade one listed building that goes back to the 1500s, so it’s very difficult to install as we had to keep the existing system working while we installed the new one.

“It would have been too complicated for us to run brand new cabling all the way around the school and within the time frames that we had to get the system up and working.”

Challenges of installing wireless fire safety in historic buildings

The school’s age and construction created challenges for the installation.

Some buildings on the site date back centuries, with thick walls that made it difficult to establish a wireless signal.

Chris McGregor, Regional Sales Manager for the East of the UK and Ireland, said: “It was a very challenging environment because the walls were really thick.

“The difficult part was, obviously, trying to get a signal to some of the remote buildings.

“Some parts of the school were centuries old and built very differently to today’s buildings.

“The remote buildings had very thick walls and it was hard to get the signal inside.

“However, with the help of a radio survey we managed to find the best places to locate the Taurus Expanders.”

Features of the Hyfire Taurus system

Hyfire’s Taurus system allows wireless fire safety devices to function independently while being connected via a loop to translators.

The devices meet EN54 standards and BS 5839 Part 1 compliance, ensuring they align with industry regulations.

McGregor explained: “The installation went reasonably well.

“Due to the intricate layout of the building, a thorough survey revealed the necessity for additional expander devices, to enhance signal strength in certain areas.

“The partner was very impressed with the equipment.”

Taurus allows up to 15 expanders to connect to a translator, improving the range and reliability of the wireless system.

The flexibility of the system means that fully wireless or hybrid solutions can be implemented depending on the building’s requirements.

Hyfire’s role in fire safety technology

Hyfire, part of the Orama group, specialises in wireless fire detection technology.

Established in 2007, the company offers a range of wireless fire safety devices, including detectors and alarm systems.

Hyfire products come with a five-year warranty and support through a partner programme.

The company provides survey installation, commissioning, after-sales service, and technical assistance to installers.

Wireless fire alarm system installed at Thornton College: Summary

Thornton College in Buckinghamshire has installed Hyfire’s wireless fire alarm system, replacing its previous wired system.

The upgrade included four panels and over 740 Taurus wireless fire devices.

Oakpark Alarms Security Services Ltd carried out the installation, selecting wireless technology due to the challenges posed by the historic nature of the buildings.

The thickness of the walls and the age of the buildings created difficulties in establishing a wireless signal, which was resolved using a radio survey and additional Taurus Expanders.

Hyfire’s system allows devices to operate independently or be integrated with wired products, ensuring compliance with EN54 and BS 5839 Part 1 standards.

Hyfire is part of the Orama group and has been supplying wireless fire detection solutions since 2007.

The company offers a partner programme, technical support, and a five-year warranty on its products.

Royal Ship Hotel upgrades fire safety system with Hyfire technology

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Fire alarm upgrade at Grade II listed hotel with Hyfire technology

Hyfire has reported that the Royal Ship Hotel in Dolgellau has undergone an upgrade to its fire alarm system without disrupting daily operations or affecting revenue.

The 19th-century coaching inn had a combination of older Hyfire wireless and hard-wired systems, installed at different times and connected through separate fire panels.

Over 15 years, the system had undergone multiple modifications, and ageing components began causing reliability issues.

The building’s evolving layout also contributed to fire safety concerns.

Planning and system selection

Fire Queen Limited, a Hyfire partner, was tasked with proposing a wireless system upgrade that would prevent business disruption.

The project required careful assessment, including radio signal strength testing, to ensure reliable communication between devices, particularly given the thick walls of the historic building.

The end client sought a solution that would eliminate the need for extensive wiring and lengthy installation.

Wireless technology was chosen to achieve this while maintaining the integrity of the building and minimising impact on guests.

Installation process and timeline

Fire Queen Limited coordinated with hotel management to schedule work around room bookings, ensuring fire protection remained in place throughout.

Unlike a hard-wired installation, which could have taken six weeks, the wireless system was installed within one week.

Some preparatory work was carried out in advance to reduce the time spent on-site.

The installation process was structured to prevent interference with hotel operations, allowing the hotel to remain fully operational while the new system was implemented.

Outcome and client feedback

The upgraded system features Hyfire Taurus wireless devices combined with an Advanced MXPro fire panel.

Fire Queen Limited stated that this solution offers a fully addressable, reliable, and user-friendly fire safety system suitable for complex building layouts.

A Fire Queen Limited spokesperson said: “The end client was extremely pleased with the rapidity and efficiency of the installation.

“Thanks to Hyfire’s innovative devices, the whole installation was smooth and did not lead to disruption of any kind.”

Royal Ship Hotel upgrades fire safety system with Hyfire technology: Summary

Hyfire has reported that Fire Queen Limited has completed a wireless fire alarm upgrade at the Royal Ship Hotel in Dolgellau.

The previous system, comprising separate wireless and wired components installed over different periods, had become outdated and difficult to manage.

Fire Queen Limited planned the project to ensure no business disruption, conducting signal strength tests and scheduling work around hotel occupancy.

The installation, which would have taken six weeks with a wired system, was completed in one week.

The new system integrates Hyfire Taurus wireless devices with an Advanced MXPro fire panel, providing a fully addressable and modern fire safety solution.

Fire Queen Limited stated that the upgrade improved reliability while maintaining full hotel operations throughout the process.

FIREFLY FB180 batt system enhances fire safety at Glasgow Central Station

by ProjectsSafety

Fire protection upgrades in Glasgow Central Station redevelopment

The first phase of Network Rail’s £5 million investment in Glasgow Central Station has been completed, featuring upgrades to fire safety systems in the historic Caledonian Chambers.

The project includes the new first-class lounge and ticket office for Avanti West Coast.

Glasgow Central Station, originally opened in 1879, has seen extensive modifications over the years, making fire safety a critical concern.

The work involved bespoke fire protection solutions for large steel beams within the building’s structure.

FIREFLY’s FB180 batt system, originally developed by its parent company in Australia, was adapted for compliance with Building Standards (Scotland) and the Building Regulations.

Bespoke solutions tailored for heritage structures

The Caledonian Chambers, a Category B listed building designed by James Miller in 1903, required tailored fire protection.

When demolition exposed previously unknown I-beams, FIREFLY’s FB180 batt system provided a solution.

These non-combustible batts, combined with fireproof mastic and a special Ablative Coating, delivered integrity and insulation for 60 minutes or longer.

Installation was carried out by Glasgow-based QualiFire Passive Fire Protection.

QualiFire’s founder Joe Stewart said: “Our team has received positive feedback on the ease of cutting and fitting the FIREFLY batts, which generated minimal waste compared to other products.”

Broader public and commercial benefits

The upgrades extend beyond fire safety, with the project aiming to enhance passenger experience.

A new step-free station reception, the relocation of tenants, and the creation of new retail units are part of the redevelopment.

Network Rail’s project manager, Conor McLaughlin, highlighted the benefits: “We aim to improve the station experience by creating a broader range of retail options and enhancing office accommodation.”

The station has remained operational throughout the works, with additional construction phases planned.

Expanding use of FIREFLY systems

FIREFLY’s Technical Sales Manager for Scotland and Ireland, Daniel Gordon, commented on the growing adoption of their products: “The FB180 batt system is increasingly used as a dependable alternative to intumescent coatings for structural steel beams.

“Its consistent quality and ease of use make it a preferred choice among specifiers.”

The system’s flexibility and compliance with fire safety standards have positioned it as a key component in large-scale public projects like Glasgow Central Station.

FIREFLY FB180 batt system enhances fire safety at Glasgow Central Station: summary

The redevelopment of Glasgow Central Station, part of Network Rail’s £5 million investment, has seen the installation of FIREFLY FB180 batts to improve fire safety in the historic Caledonian Chambers.

Bespoke fire protection was essential for the listed building, which posed unique structural challenges.

The project includes upgrades to the station’s layout, retail units, and passenger facilities.

Installation was handled by QualiFire Passive Fire Protection, with positive feedback on the system’s adaptability and compliance with fire safety standards.

Further phases of redevelopment will continue to enhance the station’s functionality and passenger experience.

Flame and smoke barrier installed in ExCeL London expansion project

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Installation of fire barrier at ExCeL London completed

A full-height flame and smoke barrier has been installed as part of an expansion project at ExCeL London, a major events venue in the Docklands area.

According to TBA Firefly, KRASI Fire Protection Limited, based in Coventry, completed the six-week project.

KRASI used FIREFLY’s Phoenix 120 fire barrier system to provide 120 minutes of fire integrity in compliance with Approved Document B and the Building Safety Act.

The installation covered 800 m² and involved a steel angle framework with fire-resistant materials secured using heavy-duty staple guns and Collaroll adhesive.

The barrier’s location required strict safety measures to minimise disruptions during ongoing public events.

Fire protection measures adapted to project complexity

KRASI Fire Protection deployed up to six operatives at a time to ensure timely completion.

The work was supported by FIREFLY technical consultant Dave Allen, who provided site inspections and guidance on the flame and smoke barrier.

KRASI’s Contract Manager Daniel Oldacre stated: “While FIREFLY are our favourite fire protection products for any barrier work, Phoenix was actually specified by the client.

“The barrier will offer 120 minutes of integrity from either side and could remain in place once the new area is complete.”

Oldacre also highlighted the collaborative approach with FIREFLY: “Dave returned to site several times to carry out inspections.

“The project went smoothly, and we have moved on now to other sites, including a major one on the Oxford University science campus.”

KRASI’s ongoing projects and training initiatives

KRASI Fire Protection is engaged in various new-build and upgrade projects across the UK, using FIREFLY products for fire protection.

The company also participates in FIREFLY training annually.

This year, 24 installers attended certification sessions to ensure adherence to fire safety standards.

FIREFLY’s range, made from woven and non-woven glass, is designed for resistance to flame, smoke, and heat.

Its ease of installation with ancillary products makes it suitable for both horizontal and vertical applications.

ExCeL London flame and smoke barrier installation: Summary

KRASI Fire Protection Limited has completed the installation of a flame and smoke barrier at ExCeL London using FIREFLY’s Phoenix 120 fire barrier.

The project, which took six weeks, was designed to meet stringent fire safety standards and minimise disruption during ongoing public events.

Covering 800 m², the barrier provides 120 minutes of fire integrity and may remain in place after the venue’s expansion.

FIREFLY technical consultant Dave Allen supported the project with site visits and inspections.

KRASI continues to use FIREFLY products for other high-profile projects, including work at Oxford University’s science campus, and engages in annual training to uphold fire safety compliance.

Mobile coverage expanded on Elizabeth line with help from Hillmoore Fire Protection

by Featured NewsProjects

Hillmoore Fire Protection contributes to enhanced mobile coverage in London’s Elizabeth line

The Elizabeth line, a key east-west railway in London, now offers high-speed 4G and 5G mobile coverage within its first tunnelled section, with help from Hillmoore Fire Protection.

This advancement aims to improve connectivity within London’s underground stations and tunnels.

Transport for London (TfL) expects to extend this coverage to key locations including Whitechapel, Canary Wharf, and Woolwich by the end of the summer.

Hillmoore Fire Protection, known for its expertise in passive fire protection systems, played a critical role in the project.

The company was tasked with constructing blast-proof communications rooms as part of the engineering team working on the mobile network infrastructure.

A challenging installation schedule

Working under tight deadlines, a team of 500 individuals operated across the tube network to install the necessary communications systems.

Hillmoore was introduced to the IT firm commissioned by TfL and was required to implement specialist passive fire protection solutions.

This needed to be achieved within strict time constraints to ensure that the lines reopened to passengers each morning.

Hillmoore’s engineering team joined the effort by designing and installing enclosures made from Durasteel, a fire- and blast-resistant material.

The team met the demanding 60-minute fire integrity specification, completing installations during a planned weekend travel closure.

Durasteel technology helps protect critical infrastructure

Hillmoore’s use of Durasteel was essential in ensuring that the new communications and electrical systems were protected.

Durasteel is a composite panel made of fibre-reinforced cement and steel sheets.

It is fully certified and has been installed in various locations globally, known for its resistance to fire and high-impact blasts.

Over one weekend, Hillmoore successfully completed the installation of six Durasteel enclosures across three stations.

The work was completed in preparation for the new mobile network infrastructure.

TfL and Hillmoore continue collaboration

Following their successful work, Hillmoore has been instructed to continue contributing to the project, with plans to work on additional London Underground lines over the next two years.

The collaboration with TfL and the IT firm highlights the importance of precise engineering in such high-profile public transport projects.

The mobile coverage expansion benefits passengers travelling between Liverpool Street and Paddington.

This improvement, in addition to enhancing communication, aims to improve the passenger experience.

Amir Dawoodbhai, a member of TfL’s Youth Panel, spoke about the project’s benefits.

He said: “Mobile coverage on the Tube and Elizabeth line enhances young people’s perception of safety as they travel independently through London.”

Hillmoore’s ongoing involvement in transport projects

Hillmoore Fire Protection continues to work closely with TfL on expanding mobile coverage to other lines in London’s transport network.

Their expertise in fire protection solutions has proven essential in ensuring that critical infrastructure meets both safety and functional requirements.

This work forms part of broader efforts to improve London’s underground communication capabilities, contributing to the city’s long-term transport strategy.

Mobile coverage expanded on Elizabeth line with help from Hillmoore Fire Protection: Summary

Hillmoore Fire Protection played a key role in expanding mobile coverage on London’s Elizabeth line.

They installed fire- and blast-resistant Durasteel enclosures to protect new communications equipment.

The coverage, which currently spans the tunnels between Liverpool Street and Paddington, is set to be extended to other parts of the line by the end of summer.

Hillmoore’s work was commended by both TfL and the IT company involved, and they have been engaged for further projects across other underground lines over the next two years.

FIREFLY fire barriers used in Maggie’s Cancer Centre showcase UK construction capabilities

by ConstructionFeatured NewsProjects

New Maggie’s Cancer Centre in North London

The latest Maggie’s Cancer Centre at the Royal Free Hospital in North London features a unique design by Daniel Libeskind.

This structure, which lacks vertical lines and flat surfaces, presented complex challenges for the contractors involved.

Middlesex Ltd., responsible for fire-stopping, utilised FIREFLY fire barriers to protect the multidirectional form of the walls and soffits.

As reported by FIREFLY, this project demonstrates the UK construction industry’s ability to realise imaginative architectural concepts.

The year-long build was managed by Sir Robert McAlpine, a consistent supporter of the Maggie’s charity, with Middlesex Ltd. installing the façade and drywall elements.

The fire-stopping division of Middlesex used various FIREFLY products, including Zeus Lite, Titan Lite, and Collaroll, to cover the steelwork and other main structure elements.

Challenges and solutions

Simon Coldwell, Site Manager for Middlesex, commented on the difficulties posed by the building’s shape: “Because of the shape of the building, whose walls lean and curve in three directions, it would have been impossible to carry out conventional fire-stopping operations using fire boards and fire batts without extensive fire testing: so the FIREFLY products have proved ideal.”

He highlighted the support from FIREFLY’s technical representatives in ensuring compliance and addressing special areas like the wall/soffit junctions.

Coldwell added: “As well as the fire-stopping internally, all of the exterior to the walls at ground and first floor level are wrapped in FIREFLY.

“The barriers have been installed over the main frame and are then covered by 200mm of insulation, a Tyvek breather membrane, and then the timber cassette cladding panels.” He praised the experienced team of Middlesex Fire-Stopping operatives, who had undergone FIREFLY training, for their effective work on the project.

Past and future projects

A spokesperson for Sir Robert McAlpine stated: “Each designed by a world-renowned architect, Maggie’s centres are some of the most distinctive buildings in Britain.

“As such, they are often incredibly challenging to construct.

“It was this complexity that led to our initial involvement with the charity at the award-winning, Kisho-Kurokawa-designed Maggie’s Centre at Singleton Hospital, Swansea.”

The spokesperson further mentioned the company’s ongoing involvement with the charity, having overseen the construction management of Maggie’s centres at multiple hospitals since the Swansea project.

This ongoing commitment underscores the collaborative effort required to bring these architecturally unique buildings to life.

Technical aspects of FIREFLY products

FIREFLY Zeus Lite 90:30 provides 90 minutes of integrity and 30 minutes of insulation, exceeding the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations’ Approved Document B (Fire Safety).

The product’s certification covers the inclusion of service penetrations, a feature not all fire barriers possess.

The FIREFLY range, made from woven and non-woven glass, is designed for optimal resistance to flame and smoke while offering heat protection in various scenarios.

These barriers are easily installed horizontally or vertically using a complete selection of FIREFLY ancillary products, ensuring a fully tested and certified system.

This flexibility and reliability make FIREFLY an ideal choice for complex projects like the Maggie’s Cancer Centre.

Intelligent fire panel installed in Scottish historic mansion

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

“The Advanced MxPro 5 is our panel of choice,” says Safe Services engineer

Fire protection solutions manufacturer Advanced has installed an intelligent fire panel with wireless detection to protect a historic mansion house and estate in Scotland.

An Advanced MxPro 5 analogue addressable fire panel has been installed in Wedderlie House, providing comprehensive protection.

The system covers the entire house, which required Category L2 coverage due to its use as wedding accommodation.

Wedderlie House, located in the parish of Westruther, features a fortified tower from the late 16th century, with a larger house added in 1680.

The late 17th-century addition has rough-cast walls, expanding the building further with the Renaissance House.

Installation and technical details

Fire and security service providers Safe Services installed the Advanced MxPro 5 four-loop analogue addressable fire panel, incorporating 86 devices on the loop.

Due to the building’s age and construction, installing cabling without damaging the property was impossible.

Thus, the Advanced panel was integrated with EMS Firecell wireless devices.

Graeme Millar, Fire Technical Sales Engineer at Safe Services, said: “We were responsible for the installation, commissioning, verification and handover of the system, and will also be conducting ongoing maintenance.

“The age and construction of Wedderlie House could have been a real challenge but being able to integrate the Advanced panel with wireless EMS Firecell detection made it far more straightforward.

“We have several sites with the same combination, and we know the Advanced MxPro 5 works well with EMS equipment.

“The Advanced MxPro 5 is our panel of choice as it’s a trusted and reliable panel with our design and installation teams.”

Advantages of wireless fire panels

Neil Parkin, Sales Manager at Advanced, highlighted the benefits of their wireless fire panels: “Our open-protocol MxPro 5 panels allow installers to select the most suitable device range to suit the needs of each site.

“They are designed to make life as easy as possible, delivering robust protection that offers real peace of mind, all backed up by our highly rated technical support.

“Opting for wireless equipment is ideal for historic sites like Wedderlie House, where cabling can be trickier to install and visually unappealing.

“Add to that the time and cost benefits they provide to installers, and it is a great choice in multiple scenarios both large and small.”

The MxPro 5 panel is certified by FM Approvals to the EN 54 standard, offering a choice of leading detector protocols and an open installer network.

It can be used in single-loop, single-panel format or configured into networks of up to 200 panels covering large areas.

Features and benefits of the MxPro 5

The MxPro 5 panel’s wireless capabilities make it easy to install robust fire alarm systems while saving time, cost, and reducing disruption.

Wireless solutions are faster and cheaper to install, making them a popular alternative for sites where downtime is not an option.

With two-way communication, battery replacement and fault reporting can be integrated into the maintenance schedule via the panel service tools.

The MxPro 5 also offers advanced false alarm management with AlarmCalm, allowing precise control of verification and investigation delays.