"industrial fire doors"

Bonny LGA on the Atlantic coast of Nigeria, where the huge multi-billion dollar Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) industry and the terminals of several oil and gas companies, (including ExxonMobil - trading in Nigeria as Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU), are established. HAG supplied and installed Armourguard & Alishiled Range roller shutters to numerous locations in the Niger delta to enhance the security of the Shell premises. HAG also trained local representatives of the main contractor to enable them to install HAG products on a supply only basis.

Developer Manchester Life is transforming the residential market in the city of Manchester and Senior Architectural Systems is proud to have partnered with them to create a number of apartment schemes including Cotton Field Wharf, Weavers Quay and New Little Mill. Lampwick Quay is the fourth and most recent project to have been undertaken by Senior as part of this successful repeat business relationship.Located in Manchester’s thriving new community in Ancoats, the new Lampwick Quay development comprises 213 apartments across three blocks of five, six and ten-storeys, with ground floor retail units and communal facilities including a gym and residents club room. A mix of Senior’s aluminium windows, commercial doors and curtain wall solutions have been used extensively throughout the development and installed by supply chain partner Aire Valley Architectural Aluminium for main contractor John Sisk & Son Ltd.To help reduce heat loss and energy costs, Senior’s low U value and Part L compliant PURe® aluminium casement windows have been installed to each of the apartments to create a comfortable living space. The stylish window system also provides the perfect frame for the development’s views of Manchester’s New Islington Marina.Energy-efficiency has also been addressed in the communal, retail and ground floor areas through the use of Senior’s thermally-enhanced SF52 aluminium curtain wall system which maximises the controlled use of use of natural light.To meet the scheme’s stringent safety and security requirements, Senior’s robust SPW501 aluminium commercial doors were installed to the main entrance and exit points. The SPW501 commercial door system is ideally suited to high pedestrian use and meets the requirements of Secured By Design. Key elements of the fenestration package have also been designed to work as part of the scheme’s overall passive fire protection strategy, with the use of Senior’s SPW600 automatic opening ventilation (AOV) aluminium windows in the communal areas and stairwells. Although visually similar to Senior’s popular SPW600 system, these AOV windows are fitted with a smart actuator which allows for quick and automatic ventilation in the event of a fire, helping to remove smoke from the air.The development’s low pitch sawtooth roof design pays homage the area’s industrial heritage, with the slim aluminium frames of the fenestration package further complementing the main façade of zinc cladding, brick and coloured panels. Initially designed by CallisonRTKL, the Lampwick Quay development was delivered by jmarchitects.

A new ferry terminal on Brodick Bay, created as a tourism and community gateway to the Scottish Isle of Arran, has been fitted from stem to stern with door and window systems supplied by GEZE.Maritime design and modern comfortThe ship-shaped terminal, designed by the renowned architectural firm Norr of Glasgow, is part of a £30 million investment which aims to update the harbour, get it ready for 21st century travel, and improve passenger comfort.Natural ventilation thanks to automated windowsThe generously sized lounge with its double height and large wall of windows on the western façade offers visitors a breathtaking view of Brodick Bay. The large windows, which are automatically opened and closed by 30 GEZE Slimchain chain drives, give the reception area at the main entrance to the building a bright and spacious feel. The uniquely slim and understated look of the Slimchain window drives integrates perfectly into the unique façade design of the Brodick ferry terminal.The Slimchain window drives were installed not only on the large windows in the lounge, but rather throughout the entire two-storey building – with the exception of the upper ventilation openings: Powerchain chain drives are used there. These especially powerful window drives were chosen to operate the larger windows, since they allow for large opening widths – which is important for quickly venting smoke in case of a fire.The window drives are connected to a GEZE MBZ 300 SHEV control panel for smoke and heat extraction drives, which is integrated into the building management system of the terminal. This makes it possible to easily control and monitor the complex natural ventilation system.Ventilation, smoke and heat extraction, and emergency exit protectionThe windows in the staircases are also equipped with Slimchain chain drives. If needed, the window systems also allow for natural smoke and heat extraction: In case of smoke and heat, the smoke extraction solutions open the windows and control fresh air openings, so that lifesaving escape routes remain smoke-free and safe to use in case of an emergency. In addition, GEZE OL Line manual fanlight openers provide supplementary natural ventilation.Door systems for accessible fire protection doorsBeneath the glazed western elevation are two automatic swing doors to either side. These are powered by GEZE Slimdrive EMD-F door systems, just like another door on the side façade of the building. The electro-mechanical swing door drives for single leaf fire and smoke protection doors are extremely versatile: They provide power assisted opening and can be initiated using the operating button with constant opening and closing speed. Integrated obstacle detection also identifies potential obstacles and stops the opening or closing process if needed. By doing so, Slimdrive EMD-F drives also ensure easy and safe access for people with mobility issues.Understated design and high access convenienceFrom the main entrance, a glazed corridor leads to a bi-parting sliding door powered by a GEZE Slimdrive SL NTsliding door system, which leads into the foyer of the main reception area. The Slimdrive door drive fulfils two key stipulations here at once: It is suitable for interior and exterior doors with high levels of footfall, and ideally suited for glass façades with high design standards – such as the Brodick ferry terminal – due to its low operator height of just 7 cm.

DFV Company realises all their finishes only using Qualicoat approved non-toxic polyester powders. In this regard, the continuous collaboration with suppliers of powder coatings is fundamental, such as Sherwin-Williams, strategic partners in the creation of excellent products and in the research and development of cutting-edge solutions, capable of responding promptly to the changing needs of the market.DFV is an Italian Company with an important international relevance, a leader in the sector of painting for architectural and industrial use.Founded in 1972, today DFV has 3 production units in Italy (Lecce, Venezia, and Agrigento) and 2 abroad (Brazil and Australia). All production sites are equipped with modern painting systems, both vertical and horizontal, and with wood-effect decoration systems that allow DFV to offer a wide range of high-quality colours to several thousand customers as window fabricators, distributors of aluminum profiles, producers, and systems engineers for residential and industrial architecture. The product range of DFV varies from classic and special RAL colours to wood-effect paints and decorations. The core business is represented by the DFV patented EZY and EZY HD2 wood-effect decorations, made using powder on powder technology.

The building of a new fire station and safety centre in Lymm was part of a comprehensive plan to improve response times across Cheshire, Halton and Warrington.

From the Tower of London to The Royal Palaces, Coopers is trusted to install fire and smoke curtains barriers for some of the world’s most iconic heritage buildings. With this knowledge, appointed architects Arrol & Snell assigned Coopers to develop a system that would help protect the cathedral’s Undercroft and Treasury from smoke migration in the event of a fire. The smoke barrier system had to allow visitors to exit the Undercroft and Treasury safely, whilst preventing smoke from entering the main body of the cathedral, but any system had to be sympathetic to its unique and ancient architecture.

The AliDeck System has rapidly become the de facto standard choice for balcony fire safety remediation projects. With our large range of non-combustible aluminium decking boards, joists, and pedestals our products offer practical and cost-effective solutions for any conceivable balcony refurbishment works.

Imago Interiors, an award-winning design and build company, was tasked with creating an environment that merges design, technology and wellness to provide X+Why, a co-working real estate provider, a perfect home from which to grow at Whitechapel Road, London. "Forza Doors were selected as we have established a trusted relationship with them on our previous projects, based on their customer service and exceptional quality." Paul McArdle, Construction Director & Co-Founder “X+Why want to change the way the world works by uniting purpose-driven businesses in tech forward, wellness focused, and thought provoking environments. It was essential for us to fulfil every aspect of the brief to deliver their vision. We couldn’t be more proud of the end result, and to work with a fantastic forward thinking client.”

FIREFLY™ PHOENIX Offers Temporary Fire Protection For Fenchurch Street OfficesThe refurbishment of two complete floors to one of the City’s largest office buildings is making use of the well proven and versatile TBA FIREFLY™ PHOENIX smoke & flame barriers, to create temporary fire barriers while the work is being carried out: protecting people and property across the rest of the five storey structure where business continues as normal.The project at 30 Fenchurch Street, EC3 is being led by Overbury – one of the capital’s most experienced fit-out contractors, while the London office of HLW Architects is leading the design team. T&R Fire Protection meanwhile is the specialist sub-contractor carrying out the installation of the PHOENIX around the atrium, as well as other passive fire protection measures as the scheme evolves.In total T&R has fixed 22 rolls of the lightweight PHOENIX material to create the two hour integrity smoke and flame barriers around the glazed edge of the floor plates at levels Three and Four of 30 Fenchurch Street. The lightweight barrier has been fixed to the bulkhead and at intervals down all of the existing columns, before finally being secured across steel angle sections bolted to the floor slab.IFC Certification duly inspected all 160 metres of the temporary barriers – up to 3,300 mm in height - once installed, on behalf of Overbury and duly issued a certificate of compliance. The permanent works are expected to include creating fire breaks within the ceiling zones at 20 metre intervals, as part of T&R’s overall contract for Fenchurch Street in the region of £250K.The Site Manager for T&R Fire Protection, Tom Port Smith, commented: “We’ve used PHOENIX and other FIREFLY™ products on many hundreds of projects in the past, but in this case it was the insurers for the project who insisted on the installation of the screens to protect the atrium while the sprinkler system was being replaced. The installation though was relatively straightforward and in our work generally, FIREFLY™ is our ‘go to’ manufacturer when it comes to fire compartmentation. We base our recommendations and design drawings on TBA FIREFLY™ standard details and, once they’ve been approved, go in and install the flexible fire barriers.”Tom, like the majority of T&R Fire Protection’s operatives, has attended training sessions at FIREFLY's premises in Rochdale, reinforcing their trade skills and gaining valuable insights into the performance parameters of the different barriers in the range.FIREFLY™ PHOENIX is a lightweight smoke & flame barrier developed to enable compartmentation within buildings to provide up to 120 minutes’ integrity under BS476 Parts 20 & 22. Certified by IFCC, the flexible and straightforward to install material and is suitable for both new-build and retrofit situations.Manufactured from woven and non-woven glass, the FIREFLY™ range is designed to optimise resistance to flame and smoke as well as offer heat protection in a wide range of scenarios. The flexible barriers are easy to install horizontally or vertically using a full selection of ancillary products. Used mainly in the construction industry across the UK and Europe, FIREFLY™ Fire Barriers help to contain fire, giving building occupants extra time to evacuate and the fire service to enter safely.

Looking down for architectural features in any Georgian town and as well as coal hole covers, manholes and the like you'll see all manner of air bricks and grilles, mostly for sub floor ventilation in property walls. Here is an illustration of a cast iron vent underneath a front door in Regency Bath. Like many it's in a pretty poor state. This one's patched up with steel plate and it's suffocating, what is a key part of the ground floor causing damp. Prevent damp in period property basements and below suspended floors...

False fire alarm numbers continue to rise post-pandemic causing major issues for the economy by wasting vital time and resources.The latest Home Office figures from year ending September 2022 reveal fire and rescue services attended 238,885 fire false alarms, the largest total of false fire alarms in over a decade, an increase of 10% compared with the previous year.With an 18% increase from the previous year for malicious false fire alarms, 6,473 false alarms were determined, the number still rising post-COVID.False fire alarms continue to be the largest proportion of incidents attended at 38% and so it is increasingly important to minimise false alarms to ensure both the safety of individuals and the efficient use of emergency services.A teenager was arrested in Aberdeen after setting off fire alarms more than a dozen times, which police investigated as ‘deliberate and malicious’. Firefighters attended calls and wasted time and resources, meaning they could not respond to real emergency calls.False alarms are costly and disruptive, amounting to around £1 billion a year for the UK they often require emergency responders to mobilise and respond to a non-existent emergency, wasting resources and time.False fire alarms can be costly for building owners with fines introduced for repeated false alarms from emergency services, as they may have to attend multiple times, causing a drain on resources that could be better used elsewhere.They can also cause panic and confusion, particularly if they occur frequently, making it harder for people to take the necessary steps to evacuate safely in the event of a real fire. Frequent false alarms can lead to complacency among building occupants, who may not take real fire alarms seriously, potentially putting themselves and others at risk.Firefighters attended false alarms a considerable number of times at Basset Lodge, an independent living facility for many elderly and disabled people. False fire alarms are not only disruptive for staff and residents, but also pose a risk to their safety, and place additional strain on fire and rescue services. These repeated false alarms can lead to complacency in the public, lowering the sense of urgency in real evacuations.Protective covers can help to control the number of accidental and malicious fire alarms, but there are many ways in which you can reduce false alarms, for example regularly checking and testing equipment to ensure it is not faulty is one approach to preventing unnecessary risk for the fire department and public from false alarms.As the original call point cover manufacturer, Safety Technology International manufacture tough covers have been specifically designed to help deter false fire alarms and to prevent malicious or accidental activation of manual call points. The strong, durable construction of our polycarbonate call point protectors means they can withstand the toughest knocks, whilst offering lasting protection against false fire alarms. With various models available in a range of sizes and colours, and multi-language or custom text options, we have covers suitable for most applications or devices. Sounder models help to deter malicious activations with an audible alarm that draws immediate attention to the area. Waterproof models also allow for outside application, protecting devices and manual call points against the ingress of dust or water.

SMARTPLY MAX FR B has been specified and installed to provide enhanced fire protection at a new residential development at School Road, Hove in East Sussex. Built by PMC Construction, the affordable 104-home development is on the site of a former Westerman Industrial Works complex originating from the 1950’s.   The extensive project included the building of 21 town houses, and seven residential blocks. Block A features nine flats in a four to five storey structure, while blocks B, C and D feature 47 flats across four storeys. Blocks E, F and G consists of 17 flats and retail units spanning across three and four storeys. Such a feat required specialist, structural panels with reliable reaction to fire properties.  “The project was to supply and erect timber frames as part of the design and construction of 104 residential dwellings and three commercial units,” said Emma Barry, Project Co Ordinator at Gibbs Timber Frame. “We had worked with SMARTPLY products before, but on smaller projects that required enhanced fire protection.” Around 3,500 sheets of SMARTPLY MAX FR B were used in the project, covering over 8,900m2. “We chose SMARTPLY MAX FR B panels for the Cat B and Cat C buildings and decking because of its flame retardant properties. Crucially, the product is also suitable for EC5 Design and Cat 1 racking, which is just what we needed.” SMARTPLY MAX FR B is a structural, moisture resistant OSB/3 panel, which as well as having outstanding and reliable reaction to fire properties, is ideal for use in a range of applications where strength, moisture resistance and improved flame retardance are paramount. Unlike standard, structural OSB/3 panels, SMARTPLY MAX FR B is treated with a water-based, non-toxic flame retardant solution during the manufacturing process, which provides enhanced fire protection throughout the thickness of the panel. This means that even if it’s cut, the level of protection remains, unlike some post-treated panels.  SMARTPLY MAX FR B is CE certified according to EN 13986 and meets the requirements for load-bearing panels for use in humid conditions (Type OSB/3) as defined in EN 300 and Eurocode 5. The project began in January 2020 and is due to be completed in October 2021. Gibbs Timber Frame are manufacturers of high-quality timber frame structures with over twenty years’ experience in the construction industry. Their expertise ranges from luxury detached homes, specialised structures, bungalows, chalets, terrace housing, apartment blocks, commercial buildings and home extensions.  Find out more and keep up with them here: www.gibbstimberframe.co.uk  Discover more about the benefits of SMARTPLY MAX FR B here:

The Ascent Up and Over step unit / Industrial stair system was specified to create a safe means of access up & over items of mechanical plant & equipment to the roof of the airport terminal building. The Industrial stair unit is supported on rubber spreader feet which provide a non-penetrative support solution on the flat single ply membrane roof. The stair unit is designed in accordance with BS EN ISO 14122-1:2001 + A1:2010 and Building Reg Part K:2013 and manufactured following 1090 factory production control procedures.

Promat has played an instrumental part in the fire protection of the latest unit of GLP’s warehouse and logistics facility, G-Park, Northampton - providing a tailored 240-minutes fire resistance solution for Unit 4, a132,000 sq. ft speculative warehouse/distribution unit.  Situated within the popular Moulton Park industrial estate just north of the town and within 10 miles of J15 of the M1, G-Park has exceptional transport links, access to national markets, a locally skilled workforce and is home to a wide range of regional and national companies.   At short notice, the latest and final unit within the park required a solution that provided 4-hour fire resistance for the steel frame construction. Sub-contractor FAA Installation Ltd traditionally uses intumescent paints in its projects, but as this method was unable to meet the 4-hour fire protection required for the steelwork structure it was decided that boarding would be a more suitable alternative.  Promat VERMICULUX®-S and TD Boards® were specified for the project by Encon, a leading Promat distributor, as they knew that these were two of a limited number of products on the market that could meet the project’s requirements.   Promat worked closely with Encon and FAA on the final specification to provide a solution that could not only achieve the 240-minute requirement, but could also overcome the design complexities of the project, including fixing to both the structural steel and cladding rails, which most traditional boards were unable to accommodate. The completed installation demonstrates how VERMICULUX®-S and TD Boards® can interface together to create robust fire protection for warehouse and industrial applications. 

Power-assisted pocket doors with effortless activation and a smooth, silent operation.A contactless electro magnetic propulsion system silently opens and closes the door with no or minimal user handling.Motus can be controlled several ways depending on your application:Nudge and goThe standard method; simply nudge the door open or closed and Motus will assist with the rest.Touch-less sensorThe sensor is fitted to the wall and by simply moving your hand in front of the sensor this activates the door.Simultaneous openingNow available as standard when using double doors, Simultaneous opening activates both leafs in a seamless fashion.Fire rated to FD30All trim designs (Visible / Concealed / Shadow Gap) and on all configurations over a wide range of sizes.

Leading self-storage specialists Lok’nStore have installed Jewers’ Swift bi-folding doors for customer access at their depots throughout the South of England.

Introducing the A1400 automatic sliding door range, marking a significant stride into the future of automated entrance systems. The A1400 is not just another door; it is a revolutionary leap that sets it apart from its counterparts, delivering a blend of innovation, energy efficiency, and versatility.Within the range is the unique Airslide option, which is the only automatic sliding door with an integrated Air Curtain. The Airslide system combines the automatic opening and air curtain systems into a single unit, with aesthetic and functional advantages. Its sleek design makes it easy to integrate into any architectural context.At the heart of the A1400’s groundbreaking features is its innovative energy-saving technology, a marvel that goes beyond the basics. This smart system not only identifies transit direction but also optimises opening and closing times, preventing unnecessary air dispersion, even in the midst of cross traffic. Need to see data on the impact of this smart technology? Check out our case study in collaboration with Currys.What makes the A1400 even more impressive is its intuitive programming capability, allowing users to tailor the door’s operation to meet specific needs. Whether it’s a straightforward setup or a more complex configuration, the A1400 adapts seamlessly to cater to a diverse range of requirements.Adding to its appeal is the A1400’s versatile design, which goes beyond aesthetics to offer a multitude of leaf profiles and cover types. This diversity isn’t just for show; it signifies a commitment to redefining technical and architectural solutions in a variety of settings. The A1400 is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a dynamic range that adapts to different environments with ease.Prioritising innovation is paramount, but safety is non-negotiable. The A1400 is designed with compliance and safety in mind, ensuring that it meets the stringent European safety standard EN 16005, trusting it with the highest regard for safety standards.In essence, the FAAC A1400 SERIES is more than a product; it’s a solution tailored to be as versatile as your needs, as reliable as your trust, and as sustainable as your vision.Experience the future of entrance automation with the FAAC A1400 SERIES – a solution that’s as versatile as your needs, as reliable as your trust, and as sustainable as your vision. Reach out to us today to explore how the FAAC A1400 SERIES can elevate your entrance automation game!The Full range:FAAC A1400 Automatic Sliding Door OperatorFAAC Airslide with Built-In Air CurtainFAAC All Glass Automatic Sliding DoorFAAC Framed Automatic Sliding DoorFor more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com or +44 (0) 845 450 4633 where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.

One Crown Place is the latest high rise addition to London’s skyline. Home to 246 luxury apartments, high-quality office space, a boutique hotel and members’ club, it is located between the City of London and Shoreditch. Designed by internationally renowned architects Kohn Pederson Fox (KPF), the development features two prismatic towers of 28 and 33 storeys.For the apartments, interior designers, Bowler James Brindley specified custom designed kitchens by Italian company Arclinea featuring a dark lacquered finish with engineered stone worktops and glass fronted cabinets.The Fire regulations which apply to high-rise living accommodation meant that the open plan kitchens in each apartment would require a fire suppression unit complete with sprinklers to be fitted. These units need to be installed and maintained by a specialist engineer and can also cause damage within a property should they be activated due to a fire.  Therefore, the team of architects, designers and builders were open to the idea of an alternative, unobtrusive design-led fire prevention solution, such as the Firechief Kitchen Stove Guard.

As everyone is aware, the implications of Brexit remain unclear, but what effect do we think it will potentially have on the UK construction industry? Will Brexit cause a recession in construction? The industry, throughout the Brexit campaign, have displayed mixed views on the prospect of Brexit. There has been concern about how it may or may not affect the skills shortage, the import and export of materials, and regulations/standards.

Our client Prestige All Parts, a car dealership, aimed to establish a new showroom and office space. They sought an innovative solution that would not only set their showroom apart but also ensure functionality and appeal to visiting customers.To address our clients needs, we proposed a comprehensive redesign of the shopfront. The focal point of our solution was the integration of expansive windows to maximise the influx of natural light into the showroom. This strategic approach aimed to create an inviting ambiance while showcasing the displayed vehicles in their best light. In addition to that, the implementation of a sliding automatic door system for the main entrance allowed for enhanced accessibility and also offered a seamless and user friendly experience for customers entering.Beyond its practical benefits, such as ease of access for visitors, this feature symbolised the dealership’s commitment to modernity and innovation. By implementing these proposed solutions, our client not only transformed their physical space but also redefined their brand identity.

New Lidl stores and stores undergoing refurbishment around the UK are now supplied with Teckentrup steel doors and doorsets. Lidl has a standard footprint for every store, however at each location there are differences. Changes are driven by planning restrictions, site space, etc, and it means each site is unique to some degree.Teckentrup works with LIDL and its contractors to identify the variances and advise on the solutions long before sending products to site. Doors are typically at the end of the build programme; contractor knowledge is limited and specifications are constantly changing. A recipe for potential problems...

Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) operates services in 200 locations across Rotherham, Doncaster and North Lincolnshire. It provides a range of inpatient and community mental health , learning disability and addiction services for adult, young people and children. The solution offered by Intastop was to ensure the door had full anti-ligature protection with the Door Top Alarm and fully clad the door in high quality anti-bacterial impact protection sheet which prevents water absorption and protects from damage.

The purpose: Energy savings of £¼million over 20 years at just two of its sites are predicted to be achieved by London Fire Brigade through effective roof refurbishment using our Roofing Solutions. The brigade identified that the roofs at Erith and East Ham Fire Stations were in need of refurbishment. Numerous intermediate repairs had already been undertaken. An efficient solution was needed to help London Fire Brigade optimise best value in its asset management and reduce its requirement for planned- or unplanned- maintenance.London Fire Brigade therefore turned to Currie & Brown construction management consultants to oversee the design and execution of the refurbishment projects under a contract management framework agreement in place between the two organisations. We was called in to assess the roofs and advise on a course of action. Data driven roof condition reports from surveys were taken across the two premises. We highlighted that the roofs were beyond economical repair and needed new waterproofing and insulation- a U value of 5.00W/m2K was discovered in one roof area, against the Regulatory threshold of 0.35W/m2K and best practice 0.18W/m2K. Our solution: We advised that in the main, overlaying of the existing roof covering with CP-20 Paracoat Cold Polyurea Liquid System (warm roof) application was the most-efficient and cost-effective solution.The over-laying using the CP-20 system satisfies London Fire Brigade’s policy of preference for flame-free, with no roof replacement needed this minimised waste to landfill.Our Approved Contractor CWG Group won the contracts to undertake the upgrading, working to Langley’s detailed individual specifications for each site.At East Ham Fire Station, four main roof areas plus a separate ancillary building were addressed.LangGuard free-standing safety rail was installed around the perimeter of roofs 1 and 4.The final touch for the field roof area was provided with Paracoat Fast SF slip-inhibiting finish to agreed walkway areas.At Erith Fire Station, the refurbishment involved upgrading two roof areas including a rooftop tank room and adjoining canopy of corrugated PVC over the Station building, and a separate stores roof.

When you design a building that will be used by lots of people, like a tower block, you need to make sure that the building has the correct level of fire prevention and fire protection equipment. In instances where this isn’t the case, tragedies like the Grenfell Fire can happen. The importance of passive and active fire protection methods are vital for the safety of the intended occupants, but how can you ensure they’re going to be safe?

Carrick Yard in Westminster is a residential development comprising 168 one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments, a community space and public sports hall as well as extensive landscaped public areas. The scheme delivers improvements to existing surrounding housing and public spaces and is part funded by Westminster City Council. It is the first development to be completed in the Church Street Regeneration area.The Fire regulations which apply to high-rise living accommodation meant that the kitchens in each apartment would require a fire suppression unit complete with sprinklers to be fitted. These units need to be installed and maintained by a specialist engineer and can also cause damage within a property should they be activated due to a fire.  Therefore, the Firechief Kitchen Stove Guard was chosen as an alternative, unobtrusive design-led fire prevention solution.

CE marking for fire shutters to BS EN 16034, BS EN 13241 following a fire test to BS EN 1634-1 is a legal requirement in the UK. https://a1sgroup.com/blog/a1s-group-policy-when-quoting-ce-marked-fire-shutters 

Coopers were commissioned to design and manufacture a bespoke curtain barrier system that, in the event of fire, would guard against smoke penetrating the upper floors of the store. Through regional partner Souchie, Coopers installed a series of Smoke Stop™ vertical smoke curtains above each escalator specifically designed to protect the means of escape for customers, whilst at the same time dramatically reduce the transmission throughout the building of life threatening gases generated by fire.

A record number of manual call points were maliciously activated across England for the year ending March 2022.The highest annual number of malicious false fire alarms on record came as people returned to public buildings en masse in a period markedly unaffected by COVID-19 lockdowns.The latest Home Office figures reveal there was a total of 3,212 false fire alarms caused by the “malicious activation of [a] fire call point/alarm” in England for the year ending March 2022, surpassing challenged hoax calls as the largest reason for malicious fire alarms.Accidental activations also increased over the period; 14,452 false fire alarms were recorded due to the accidental and careless activation of life safety equipment, including manual call points.Every false alarm is costly, disrupting schools and businesses, placing unnecessary strain on our emergency services and reducing public confidence in fire alarms.Despite online learning, working from home and limits on social contact, false fire alarm numbers, although down, persisted during the pandemic.As schools, offices and shops saw reduced attendance and footfall, malicious false fire alarms survived; now in a post-COVID world, there has been a boom in the number of false alarms plaguing the country.Continuing to be the largest incident type, false fire alarms accounted for 40 per cent of the incidents attended by Fire and Rescue Services in England for the period – fires accounted for just 26 per cent.Repeated false alarms reduce the public’s confidence in fire alarms, contributing to alarm fatigue and a complacent attitude toward evacuations. Alarm fatigue occurs when a person becomes desensitised to an alarm due to repeated false alarms and as a result, fails to react appropriately in an emergency.Safety Technology International manufacture a range of protective covers, specifically designed to prevent false alarms whether accidental or malicious.The STI story began in 1980 with a challenge by a school headteacher who wanted to stop their false fire alarms. Founder, Jack Taylor, used his expertise in security systems to invent the first and original Stopper® polycarbonate protective cover. From integral covers to outdoor and sounder models, there are now variations to suit all applications.The tamper-proof polycarbonate covers ensure call points are protected without restricting legitimate use in a real emergency, a combination of optional warning alarm, flashing beacon and break seal acts as a deterrent against malicious activation.In Wales, malicious false fire alarms rose by 33% to 426 during 2021-22, the highest figure for half a decade. And with similar figures reflected across the UK, over £1 billion is lost every year due to false alarms.To recoup this cost the London Fire Brigade became the first fire service in the country to recover costs from buildings like hospitals, airports and student halls with a poor false alarm record.Firefighters respond to fire signals as if they are real, this exposes the public and fire crew to unnecessary risk in their swift response to false alarms, directing them away from real emergencies.Under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order Act 2005, it is the responsibility of the building owner or the “responsible person” to ensure effective fire precautions are in place to protect staff, customers or visitors.Several precautionary steps can be implemented to prevent false fire alarms before they occur; routine testing and maintenance of call points is a must to ensure proper operation, but it is not the only proactive approach.As recommended in BS 5839-1:2017, manual call points can be fitted with a protective cover to prevent false fire alarms. The British Standard Institute recommends in section 20.2b), that: “All MCPs should be fitted with a protective cover, which is moved to gain access to the frangible element.“It is now recommended that a protective cover is fitted to a Type A manual call point to help prevent false alarms.”

THE PROJECTPaddington Exchange is a collection of 123 high specifications one, two and three bedroom apartments arranged over fourteen spacious floors developed by Taylor Wimpey Central London.The development is located in a sought after canal-side location, situated on the site of the former North Western Community School, offering easy access to a number of high-end street cafes, restaurants and shops. A wealth of transport links around the city are found at the site of the Paddington Exchange project.THE PRODUCTThe project features multiple banks of wall recessed fire rated 2 mailboxes located in the entrance lobby area. The mailboxes contain a series of features and benefits that result in a ‘one hour integrity’ rating that conforms to the BS476 Part 22 fire standards. For more information, please visit our fire rated mailbox page.The mailboxes are finished in an IGP-DURA®xal paint using a Dark Bronze – E82987 colour. Each mailbox features engraved numbering in a COPASETIC NF font on the opening flap coloured with a contrasting black infill.The banks of mailboxes are completed with a surrounding trim used to mask the join between the mailboxes and the installation wall. Large panels are used in conjunction with the banks of mailboxes which allow for easy identification of the relevant mailbox for both the residents and postal delivery workers.

Stainless steel worktops, by GEC Anderson, were deployed in the refurbishment of the mess room at Roath Fire Station in Cardiff. The kitchen units were supplied by Steelplan Kitchens.The continuous, high quality, stainless steel worktops provide a highly professional look and feel to the busy area within this important emergency facility. The requirements of hygiene, durability and safety are met by the worksuraces that feature integrated sink bowls as well as upstands to walls.

‘The STEAMhouse building’, launched by Birmingham University is the winner of the Victorian Society’s Birmingham and West Midlands Conservation Award, in recognition of outstanding restoration.The STEAMhouse building dates back to 1899 and was seriously damaged by fire in 2007. Previously used as a manufacturer for the Eccles Rubber & Cycle Company this Grade A listed building undertook a £70m transformation to become the creative hub it is today. The space now supports businesses, academics, hosting companies and start-up businesses, supporting enterprise and industry. The Victorian Society was so impressed with the transformation of this historic building that it has been presented with the 'Birmingham and West Midlands Conservation Award 2023', in recognition of outstanding restoration.Mumford & Wood supported this transformation by designing and manufacturing 45 bespoke timber windows and door, tailored to fit the unique openings found on the façade of the building.Matthew Blaylock, Commercial Director, Mumford & Wood states:“We enjoy the challenges that listed buildings bring, and so with strict planning requirements in place, we understood the importance of replicating the detail of the original windows but offering the performance of a modern day product. Timber Casement windows were designed for the ground and first floor, and Timber Vertical Sliding Spring Sash windows to the second floor. These were chosen from our Conservation range and tailor-made to replicate the original frame margins and Ovolo profiles. It’s always an honour to work on a historic project like this, it’s what our products are designed for.”

DRU Polo gas stoves bring warmth and comfort to Cornish hotel suitesDRU Fires, in partnership with leading Cornwall fireplace dealer Kernow Fires, has supplied five DRU Polo balanced flue gas stoves for the new beach lofts at one of Cornwall’s leading hotels.Watergate Bay Hotel on the north coast of Cornwall, originally designed to a be a railway terminus hotel, has been developed into an inclusive year-round destination. Its spectacular clifftop setting and location just a short hop from Cornwall Airport Newquay makes it a primary choice for travellers from all corners of the UK and beyond.The recent closure of Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant on the site paved the way for the £1.4 million development of the seven new beach lofts by contractors GSI and interior designers Dynargh Design, right above the beach. Described as ‘surf-in surf-out’ accommodation, the lofts have floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic sea views. All have been designed to feel like modern city lofts, with warm textures and sustainable materials.High energy efficiencyThe DRU Polo gas stoves were chosen by Dynargh Design for their contemporary design, fitting in with the overall design and aesthetic of the beach lofts. In addition, they were selected for their A energy rating, 92% efficiency and the convenience of gas with easy remote-control operation. They have all-year-round use and are suitable for chilly autumn days and cool summer evenings. Their balanced flue system offers flexibility of installation, as they require no chimney and only need proximity to an outside facing wall. This enables them to be installed in the living space, bedroom or bathroom subject to the design of each individual suite.The beach lofts were completed in time for Cornwall’s peak 2021 tourist season, which has been hugely successful due to many more people taking their holidays in the UK during the Covid 19 pandemic. Impressive outlooks and sustainabilityKernow Fires owner Simon Breckon commented: “We’re pleased to have contributed to the success of the beach lofts and have seen strong growth in Cornwall’s domestic and commercial fireplace markets this year.”Watergate Bay Hotel CEO Will Ashworth said: “The beach lofts are our best rooms. They are sized very generously and the interior design represents our new approach to contemporary Cornish beach living.” Dynargh Design director Matt Hulme said: “The lofts have some of the most impressive outlooks of any hotel in Cornwall. But the interiors also needed to have enough appeal in the winter, when it’s dark at 5pm, that it feels warm, natural and enticing.”Sustainability was also an important factor in the design. “Getting active in the beautiful natural environment is at the heart of the Watergate Bay experience, and we’re committed to minimising the environmental impact of our design choices,” adds Will Ashworth.For further information visit: drufire.com, kernowfires.co.uk and watergatebay.co.uk

Jewers Doors’ Australian reseller, Max Door Solutions (MDS) have recently completed the installation of six sets of Swift-SEW bi-folding doors, for the new Lilyfield maintenance depot for Sydney Light Rail.

Coopers solution was to install over 100 SmokeStop smoke curtain barriers. Concealed within the ceiling voids of each of the 39 floors, the SmokeStop smoke curtain barriers were developed to deploy in the event of fire, channelling smoke away from occupant and out of the building. This effective strategy for containing and channelling smoke would ensure that Gherkin’s 41 floors were protected from filling with smoke and provide occupants with a safe means of escape.

The Port of Tyne is one of UK’s most efficient deep-sea ports, handling a diverse range of cargoes from cars to containers and bulk goods to renewable energy across five continents. They offer a unique end-to-end solution ensuring goods move safely, securely and efficientlyThe project4 Speedor Storms designed, manufactured and installed to mobile hoppersThe challenge:A key part of the port’s ship unloading procedure required fast and reliable doors to compliment their logistics process. Materials such as wood pellets are unloaded into hoppers which simultaneously load directly into lorries that drive into the hoppers. The process generates dust which must be controlled as a residential area is close by. These hoppers are in highly exposed areas and require a product that withstands strong winds.The Solution:The mobile hopper systems originally came with rigid doors that blew out as they were rated Class 3 and were not fit for purpose. We resolved the issue by installing robust Speedor Storms, the Speedor variant with exceptional wind resistance up to Class 5 (over 90 mph). Their automatic action and robust design ensured that the doors worked during all weather conditions ensuring the efficiency of the port is maintained.The success:The original project was to install 2 doors to the hopper systems. Due to the reliability of the first 2 doors, a further 2 Speedor Storms were installed a few years later. 

In 2013 the London Fire Brigade received £51.5 million from central government to rebuild nine fire stations. A consortium led by construction group Kier, along with BDP architects, was given the contract following a detailed procurement process. Jacksons were specified to supply access gates for eight of the stations undergoing refurbishment.