Atrium Hotel partners with Amthal for fire safety maintenance using Honeywell CLSS

by Featured NewsProjectsSafety

Atrium Hotel enhances fire safety with Amthal

The Atrium Hotel, located within a five-minute drive from Heathrow Airport, has partnered with Amthal Fire and Security to enhance its fire safety maintenance service.

The collaboration aims to ensure the safety of both staff and guests by adhering to the latest fire safety legislation.

The hotel, known for its 573 ultra-chic bedrooms, worked closely with Amthal to develop a comprehensive maintenance programme.

As an approved Honeywell Gent partner, Amthal utilised Honeywell’s Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS), a cloud platform designed to maintain fire systems across the hotel facilities with minimal disruption.

Benefits of Honeywell CLSS for Atrium Hotel

Amthal’s implementation of Honeywell CLSS at the Atrium Hotel allows for real-time visibility and efficient decision-making regarding fire safety.

Francisco Quintero, Maintenance Manager at The Atrium Hotel Heathrow, stated: “The hotel is built on a commitment to exceptional service.

“The safety and security of our hotel experience is critical. Amthal offered advice and practical support on how this could be achieved remotely with Honeywell CLSS.”

Quintero added: “Honeywell CLSS enables real-time visibility to enhance timely, accurate decision-making by on-premise and remote staff, a great benefit to us all.”

Comprehensive fire protection service

As part of the fire safety maintenance, Amthal is responsible for testing emergency lighting, emergency voice communications, and regular fire door testing.

Mark Hunter, Honeywell Gent Business Manager, emphasised the importance of maintaining fire systems: “What Amthal demonstrates at The Atrium Hotel is the importance of not just installing the right specification of systems, but also maintaining them to maximise performance.”

Hunter noted: “This can be achieved with CLSS remotely to ensure less disruption and time on site from testing, with push notification of events to mobile devices to alert staff of any specific findings.”

Commitment to safety and excellence

David Williamson, Amthal Sales Manager, expressed pride in the partnership: “We are proud to partner with The Atrium Hotel to ensure their fire safety systems are not only up to date but also maintained to the highest standard.”

Williamson concluded: “By leveraging the capabilities of Honeywell CLSS, we can provide a seamless and efficient maintenance service that aligns with the hotel’s commitment to safety and excellence.

“With total protection and guaranteed compliance, staff can be assured of fire safety maintenance measures in place, allowing them to focus on serving guests.”

Plans for new Royal Berkshire fire training centre approved

by Featured NewsProjectsTraining

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service training centre redevelopment approved

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) has announced that the redevelopment plans for the Service’s Training Centre in Whitley Wood have been approved by Reading Borough Council.

The original schedule for the redevelopment was set for 2025 but was brought forward after a significant internal flood in 2022, which caused damage beyond economical repair.

Modern and sustainable design

The approved plans involve demolishing the existing Training Centre and an aging office cabin.

These will be replaced by a single two-storey, modular building.

The new facility will incorporate modern construction methods and sustainability features, including solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.

The upgrades are intended to support a more diverse workforce and demonstrate the Fire Authority’s commitment to providing high standards of training to firefighters in Royal Berkshire, enhancing safety for both staff and the community.

Official statements on redevelopment

Mark Arkwell, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, commented on the redevelopment: “We’re delighted that the plans for our Training Centre at Whitley Wood have been approved by Reading Borough Council.

“The upgrades have been required for several years and this redevelopment is a key feature of our longer-term commitment to modernise our facilities across Berkshire.”

Councillor Rachelle Shepherd-DuBey, Strategic Assets and Sustainability Lead of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, expressed her approval: “I was pleased to hear that our application to build a new Training Centre at Whitley Wood was approved by Reading Borough Council.

“The planned building demonstrates the Fire Authority’s continued commitment to investing in our Fire and Rescue Service to ensure that it remains effective, sustainable and ready to serve communities across Berkshire.”

Construction timeline and contractor

Premier Modular Limited has been selected to design, manufacture, and install the new building.

By opting for a modular building, RBFRS aims to reduce both financial and environmental costs and minimise disruption to neighbours and training operations.

Work on the new Training Centre is set to begin imminently, with completion and opening expected in summer 2025.

IFSJ Comment

The approval of the redevelopment plans for the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Training Centre and the decision to advance the project timeline due to the 2022 flood highlights the urgency and necessity of the redevelopment.

The new facility’s design prioritises sustainability and inclusivity, reflecting broader trends in public service infrastructure improvements.

As construction commences, the community can anticipate enhanced training capabilities for the RBFRS, contributing to the overall safety and preparedness of the region.

Wireless fire alarm system from Cygnus enhances safety at Dartford’s temporary theatre

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Innovative solution for temporary venue

In response to the unique challenge posed by the temporary theatre in Dartford, Blake Fire & Security and Illumino Ignis (Kent) Ltd (IIKL) have successfully implemented the Cygnus EN 54 certified, fully wireless SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm system.

This system was chosen to meet the stringent fire safety requirements of the new venue, which aims to host 1,091 audience members while the main Orchard Theatre undergoes RAAC Works.

With a critical turnaround of just one week, the selection of SmartNet-Pro guarantees compliance with EN 54 and BS5839 Part 1 standards, providing an aesthetically pleasing and swiftly installable solution that supports the operational dynamics of the theatre.

The Cygnus technology behind the solution

The SmartNet-Pro system’s wireless network, powered by patented Cygnus technology, operates through battery-powered radio devices.

This forms a robust, self-healing mesh network ensuring maximum reliability with at least two communication paths for every device.

Rory Foster, Fire Safety Systems Manager at Blake Fire & Security, remarked: “We have worked with Cygnus and the SmartNet-Pro system previously and knew it would be ideal for this unique project.

“Being 100% wireless, robust, and reliable, it met the project’s complex requirements perfectly. The Cygnus team’s support was instrumental in delivering the project efficiently.”

Tailored features for theatre operations

Addressing the theatre’s specific needs, the system incorporates advanced features like a “Show Mode” to isolate smoke detection during performances, while maintaining heat detection functionality.

This thoughtful integration ensures the system’s adaptability to special effects and environmental factors within the venue.

Furthermore, the installation includes a strategy to prevent false alarms during performances, enhancing safety without compromising the audience’s experience.

The SmartNet-Pro system’s versatility was demonstrated through its ability to support 65 devices, installed within two days, showcasing its suitability for rapid deployment in complex environments.

Comprehensive approach to fire safety

Blake Fire & Security and IIKL provided a holistic service from site survey and design to installation, closely collaborating with the theatre and local authorities to ensure a seamless process.

Post-installation, comprehensive training was provided to the Stage Door crew, equipping them with the knowledge to operate the system’s advanced functions effectively.

IFSJ Comment

The collaboration between Blake Fire & Security, IIKL, and Cygnus to equip Dartford’s temporary theatre with a cutting-edge wireless fire alarm system represents a forward-thinking approach to fire safety in unique and temporary entertainment venues.

This initiative not only demonstrates the technical feasibility of deploying advanced, wireless fire safety systems in challenging environments but also underscores the industry’s commitment to ensuring the safety of audiences and staff.

By prioritising quick installation, aesthetic integration, and operational specificity, this project sets a new standard for fire safety in temporary venues, reflecting a broader trend towards more adaptable and technologically advanced fire safety solutions in the entertainment sector.

Shurgard enhances fire safety in new London sites with Promat’s expertise

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Shurgard collaborates with Promat for enhanced passive fire protection in London

European self-storage operator, Shurgard, has partnered with passive fire protection specialists Promat to secure its new facilities in Chiswick and Chadwell Heath, London.

This collaboration aims to provide the highest standards of fire safety and durability in Shurgard’s construction projects.

Shurgard prioritises the safety of its customers’ property, making the implementation of passive fire protection systems a key aspect of their new constructions.

Both projects faced tight build schedules, requiring the passive fire protection work to be efficient and compliant with the highest standards.

The role of partners in the project

The main contractor Appian, along with Three Sixty Architecture, played a significant role in supporting Shurgard.

They focused on maximising lettable space while ensuring effective passive fire protection strategies, all backed by rigorous fire testing and certification.

Significant adjustments were made to the mezzanine floor system design at both sites, adapting to updated EN testing standards for steelwork.

This included revising the passive fire protection (PFP) specifications to accommodate electrical charging points in the car parks without compromising lettable space.

Innovative solutions and benefits

Promat’s involvement from the early stages of design provided specialised PFP detailing with their Promatect 250 system.

This approach ensured compliance and facilitated easy installation, maximising lettable space.

The introduction of electric vehicle charging points necessitated a fire protection solution that aligned with the project’s lean construction methodology.

Promat’s Supalux product was chosen for its lightweight and space-efficient properties, allowing installation before making the building weathertight and supporting the project’s swift progress.

Douglas Allan, Project Architect at Threesixty, commented on the collaboration: “The objectives for Shurgard projects are very clear, and being able to rely on the knowledge the Promat team offers is a big help in making sure the PFP scope is not only safe and compliant but that it also helps us to keep the schedule to a minimum and maximise the amount of lettable space Shurgard can benefit from.”

Comprehensive technical support

Promat provided a detailed specification pack for the installation of 15,000m2 of Promatect 250 and 850m2 of Supalux across the two sites.

This package included all necessary technical information and performance testing data to ensure efficient installation.

Joshua Slack, National Specification Manager at Promat, said: “Our products and technical support offering are designed to benefit projects just like those Threesixty undertake for Shurgard.

“They help to make sure that the PFP scope is backed by fire testing and certification but importantly also keeps build schedules lean and maximises available operational areas for businesses where more space means more revenue.”

“It’s a pleasure to work with Threesixty and Appian, and it’s great to see that we have a proven but flexible solution that Shurgard can rely on across any new facilities they build.”

Rosenbauer equips Austrian Power Grid substations with modern fire protection systems

by Featured NewsProjects

Innovative fire protection technology for Austrian Power Grid

Rosenbauer Brandschutz has initiated a significant upgrade to the safety infrastructure of the Austrian Power Grid (APG) by equipping ten of its substations with state-of-the-art water spray extinguishing systems.

These installations, a blend of efficiency and innovation, have been successfully implemented in multiple locations including Villach Süd, Lienz, Bisamberg, Nauders, Vienna South/East, and Salzburg/Elixhausen.

Further installations are in progress or planned for St. Johann/Pongau, Hessenberg, Ybbsfeld, and Dürnrohr, set to commence in spring 2024.

Advanced fire protection for critical infrastructure

These water spray systems are primarily designed to safeguard the transformers within the switchgear, crucial for voltage level adjustments and grid connectivity.

Equipped with infrared detection, the systems are capable of early hotspot or fire hazard identification, ensuring rapid response.

Their purpose extends beyond fire extinguishing; they also serve as preventative cooling measures for transformers at risk of overheating.

Comprehensive planning and execution

Rosenbauer’s responsibilities encompass the entire spectrum of the project, from planning to implementation, including electrical engineering, cabling, and the installation of firefighting equipment.

The central feature of these systems is the Rosenbauer nozzle, uniquely tailored to provide both extinguishing and cooling solutions, adaptable to site-specific structural conditions.

The nozzles, set to spray jet, enable widespread and uniform water application, facilitating rapid cooling of overheated components while minimizing water damage.

Adaptability to various transformer sizes

The capacity of these extinguishing systems is calibrated to match the size of the transformer, with the largest systems capable of discharging up to 6,000 litres per minute.

These systems are supported by robust underwater pumps, drawing water from substantial underground tanks.

Additionally, each system integrates a feed-in point for fire department access, and infrared detectors that alert the monitoring centre, though manual activation is essential for controlled extinguishing operations.

Significance for APG and Austria’s energy infrastructure

APG oversees a substantial network, comprising approximately 7,000 km of power lines, 65 substations, 92 transformers, and ten directly connected distribution grids across Austrian states.

The substations, critical nodes of the transmission grid, facilitate electrical energy transformation across multiple voltage levels.

In 2022, APG’s grids facilitated the transport of 46,592 GWh of energy, achieving an impressive supply reliability of 99.99%.

IFSJ Comment

The collaboration between Rosenbauer and the Austrian Power Grid marks a noteworthy advancement in fire safety for critical energy infrastructure.

By integrating advanced fire protection systems with infrared detection and responsive extinguishing capabilities, APG demonstrates a proactive approach to risk management and operational safety.

This project not only enhances the resilience of Austria’s energy grid but also sets a benchmark for other national grids seeking to modernize their fire safety protocols.

The strategic importance of such investments cannot be understated, as they ensure the continuity of energy supply and protect essential assets from the risks of fire damage.

Historic brewery receives a modern wireless protection upgrade

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Timothy Taylor’s Brewery undergoes fire safety revamp

Keighley’s historic Timothy Taylor’s Brewery, known for its acclaimed Landlord cask ale, has recently undergone a significant fire safety enhancement.

This upgrade was performed by PWP Fire & Security who installed over 300 Taurus wireless fire devices from Hyfire.

These devices safeguard the iconic brewery site with its oldest structures originating from 1863.

Wireless protection ensures seamless integration

The family-owned brewery was in need of an extensive overhaul of its fire safety systems.

The aim was to offer top-notch protection to both staff and visitors.

This was particularly challenging given the historic nature of the buildings.

In the past, intricate cabling would have been the norm due to the structures’ age and design.

However, thanks to Hyfire’s Taurus devices with their cutting-edge wireless technology and the incorporation of 2 Advanced MxPro fire panels with AlarmCalm false alarm management, the brewery found an efficient solution.

This approach facilitated a prompt installation, leading to reduced expenses and ensuring the brewing activities remained uninterrupted.

Gavin Clarke, Head of Fire at PWP Fire & Security, stated: “It was crucial to maintain the authenticity of this historic location while bolstering fire safety.

“The Taurus wireless devices from Hyfire proved to be the ideal fit. The speed and efficiency of their installation meant minimal disturbance to the brewery’s operations.

“Furthermore, this method significantly curtailed the effect on the buildings’ structural essence.”

Hyfire boasts a vast collection of wireless fire devices adhering to commercial standards.

These range from optical and multi-criteria detectors to EN54-23 Approved VAD’s.

Every product is certified to EN54 and aligns with BS5839 Part 1.

These devices connect to translators via fire panels and can be used independently or combined with Hyfire’s wired devices, granting immense flexibility to specifiers and installers.

Chris McGregor, Regional Sales Manager – East at Hyfire, remarked: “It’s an honour to extend our state-of-the-art wireless fire technology to such a respected establishment as Timothy Taylor’s Brewery.

“The particular needs of this historic site underscore the advantages of our Taurus wireless devices.

“Their efficacy, premium quality, and adaptability, combined with speedy set-up and minimal disturbances, render them ideal for such intricate settings.”

Technical advancements underpin the wireless devices

Born in Trieste, Italy, a hub for wireless fire design, the Taurus is endowed with Pathfinder Technology.

This feature enables these devices to relay information over a distance of 1km in open air, with even more considerable ranges achievable with the use of expansion hops.

Advanced antenna technology ensures communication across varied frequencies, making Taurus more cost-effective with fewer devices and batteries.

Lee Scott, Engineering Manager at Timothy Taylor’s Brewery, shared: “The wellbeing of our team and safeguarding our historical site is crucial.

“The wireless fire devices from Hyfire have showcased excellent efficiency and trustworthiness.

“They guarantee top-tier security for our venue without affecting the heritage of our infrastructures or brewing procedures.”

IFSJ Comment

The recent upgrade at Timothy Taylor’s Brewery underscores the evolution in fire safety.

Utilising wireless protection technology not only streamlines installation but also protects the integrity of historic sites.

With fire safety being of paramount importance, advancements like these by Hyfire and their dedicated partners stand as a testament to the industry’s commitment to combining modern solutions with respect for heritage.

E-sports venue in Nottingham enhanced with fire protection measures

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Fire protection focus at Nottingham’s E-sports venue

The Metronome, a prominent venue for E-sports enthusiasts located in the East Midlands, has recently undergone significant upgrades in its fire safety measures.

Fire protection is of paramount concern for such establishments, and The Metronome is no exception. The enhancements are being implemented by a certified installer for the fire protection brand, FIREFLY.

Their role is to ensure optimal safety measures for all who use the venue, including Nottingham Trent University students who utilise parts of The Metronome as a recording and production studio.

Products meet top fire protection standards

Specific products from FIREFLY’s range have been chosen to provide the required fire safety durations at this venue.

Notably, the FIREFLY Zeus Lite 90:30 barrier, known for its effectiveness in fire prevention, along with the Collaroll product, is being used to create sections within the basement area.

Daniel Oldacre, the Contract Manager for Krasi Fire Protection Limited, stated: “We began using the FIREFLY barriers a couple of years ago instead of mineral wool based systems.

“In the case of the contract here for the company which operates The Metronome, we put forward the FIREFLY Zeus Lite 90:30 as the best product to create the necessary fire barriers.

“FIREFLY’s Technical Manager, Dave Allen, assisted in supplying the necessary compliant details and is regularly attending site for required inspections.”

The choice of using the FIREFLY Zeus Lite 90:30 is backed by its capabilities: providing 90 minutes of integrity and 30 minutes of insulation.

Impressively, it surpasses the basic requirements for fire barriers as stated in the Building Regulations’ Approved Document B (Fire Safety).

The product is known for its flexible woven fabric fire barrier designed specifically for compartmentalising extensive concealed spaces within buildings.

User-friendly installation and superior protection

Furthermore, the FIREFLY range, constructed from woven and non-woven glass, is engineered to offer optimal resistance to flames and smoke while also providing heat protection in various situations.

One of the standout features of these barriers is their ease of installation, whether horizontally or vertically.

This adaptability is coupled with a comprehensive selection of ancillary products from FIREFLY, guaranteeing a fully tested and certified installation system.

IFSJ Comment

The enhancement of fire safety measures at The Metronome in Nottingham serves as a model for similar venues worldwide.

By adopting advanced products like the FIREFLY Zeus Lite 90:30 barrier, venues not only ensure the safety of their patrons but also set a high standard for fire prevention.

With increasing numbers of E-sports enthusiasts and other patrons utilising such spaces, having comprehensive and reliable fire protection systems in place becomes paramount.

As the fire safety industry continues to evolve, we anticipate seeing more establishments following suit, prioritising both the safety of their visitors and the integrity of their infrastructure.

G4S and Briggs & Forrester join forces on high-profile UK real estate projects

by ConstructionFeatured NewsProjects

Expanding safety and sustainability in major UK development projects

G4S Fire and Security and Briggs & Forrester, a celebrated building services contractor, are collaborating on three major real estate projects across the UK.

As highlighted on the G4S website, this important partnership will be pivotal in delivering safety and sustainability in the development of high-profile properties.

Creating secure and sustainable spaces in key urban centres

The Cocoa Works in York, 135 Park Street in London, and Phoenix in Leeds are the focus of this alliance.

These properties, a blend of residential, office, and retail spaces, are being developed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and urban regeneration.

As a part of this vision, G4S has been selected to supply and install the fire, life safety, and security systems for these projects.

G4S Fire and Security Systems: a comprehensive solution for construction projects

While G4S is commonly associated with security officers and high-security site systems, G4S Fire and Security Systems cater to a wide range of construction projects.

Their services are now being utilised to create secure and sustainable spaces within these major development projects.

The Cocoa Works

The iconic Rowntree factory in York, dating back to the 1890s, is being repurposed into 279 luxury apartments under the project named The Cocoa Works.

Modern community spaces and landscaped gardens will be introduced whilst preserving the building’s historical features.

The G4S team will be contributing to the safety of this environment by providing a Honeywell GENT fire detection system, assisted toilet system, an access control platform, and a video surveillance platform.

135 Park Street in London is a new 12-storey building providing office and retail spaces. This project aims to extend the cultural regeneration of Bankside eastwards, with specific UKGBC Upfront Carbon targets in sight.

To support these objectives, G4S will install Honeywell GENT fire and communication systems, a Baldwin Boxall refuge system, and a C-Tec assisted toilet.

Phoenix in Leeds, set to become the fourth tallest residential building in the city, will house 367 luxury apartments. G4S will equip Phoenix with fire detection, refuge, assisted toilets, access control, surveillance, door monitoring, and intercom systems.

Steve Leader, Head of M&E projects for G4S, stated: “The partnership between G4S Fire and Security and Briggs & Forrester demonstrates our commitment to safety and sustainability in modern building development. Careful planning and coordination, along with the use of modern fire and life safety systems, will help to ensure that these iconic and sustainable buildings are safe places to live and work.”

For more information about G4S’s fire and life safety systems, please visit their dedicated web area, or download their guide.

Comment Section: International Fire & Safety Journal recognises the importance of such partnerships in promoting safety and sustainability in the construction industry. These projects underscore the vital role of integrating advanced fire and life safety systems into building design for the future.

About G4S Fire and Security: A global leader in security and fire safety, G4S offers solutions that protect people, property, and assets. With a diverse portfolio of services, G4S Fire and Security caters to various sectors, from high-risk environments to residential and commercial properties, demonstrating their commitment to safety and sustainability.

Aico enhances resident safety in housing stock in Brentwood

by Featured NewsProjects

Plans for trial fitting 40 homes with upgraded life safety devices

Brentwood Borough Council has acknowledged the need to upgrade life safety products across its housing stock. Following discussions with Carol Burton, Interim Corporate Manager – Technical Services, the council will be launching a new trial that involves outfitting 40 properties with Aico’s enhanced heat, smoke, and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, home management gateways and environmental sensors throughout the borough.

Aiming for compliance with British Standards

This initiative will modernise the home life safety systems in line with British Standard BS5839-6 and BS50292. Properties involved in the trial will be chosen based on diverse factors, and their performance will be closely monitored before, during, and after the implementation of these upgrades, to ensure the wellbeing of the residents.

Brentwood Council utilises smart home technology for safety

By employing Aico’s connected home solution, Brentwood Borough Council will be able to connect every alarm in a property to a central portal, aggregating the data into a simplified report. These insights will facilitate preventative actions and proactive maintenance of the installed fire alarm systems. This remote management capability will not only save valuable time for the local authority but will also reduce call out costs and enhance their care for residents.

Borough council leading in tenant safety with innovative products

This approach will position Brentwood Borough Council at the cutting edge of tenant safety, thanks to the use of Aico’s innovative and reliable products. Aico is set to assist the council throughout this process, offering continuous training and support to maximise the potential benefits of this scheme.

Carol Burton said: “Brentwood Borough Council are looking forward to working with Aico. Installing the home management gateway and environmental sensors will complement the fire and carbon monoxide alarms we have already installed. This modern technology will empower our tenants to see in real time how their home is performing and will help Brentwood Council identify properties that are most at risk, enabling proactive measures and preventative maintenance of our assets.”

Proactive council embraces new system for tenant wellbeing

Matt Golding, Regional Specification Manager, praised the council’s readiness to adopt the new system: “It’s great to be working with such a proactive and keen Council who have embraced the concept straight away and can see the benefits of the home management system, not only making them more effective in their housing management but also supporting the health and well-being of their tenants. We will work closely together to ensure the right advice and training is supplied and engage with the residents to let them know fully how this can benefit the environment they live in.”

Nittan fire detection system protects historic steam mill in Slovakia

by Featured NewsProjects

Espat/Maxit Contracting has recently installed a Nittan Fire Detection System in a former steam mill building in Dolné Saliby, Slovakia, which was restored and preserved by the Trnava self-governing region.

The 100-year-old building is a crucial monument in the village and is now managed by the Heritage Museum in Galant, featuring an exhibition on the history of steam mills in the region and a depository for some of the museum’s collection of historic items.

The Nittan Evolution Series Detectors were primarily used for this project, including the Nittan EV-PYS Optical Detectors that come with a fully integrated sounder instead of a separate sounder base. These detectors are installed throughout the steam mill building to protect it from fire.

The sensor of the detector also drives and controls the EV-PYSVAD beacon base, and the entire Smoke/Sounder/Beacon assembly takes only one address for maximum system efficiency.

The installation of the Nittan Fire Detection System was conducted by Espat/Maxit Contracting. The systems is designed to provide quick and simple installation, saving time and money while remaining competitively priced. Additionally, it features a low profile and unobtrusive appearance.

For more information on the Nittan Fire Detection System and its installation, interested parties can contact Nittan by phone at 01483 769 555 or by email at sales@nittan.co.uk.