"intruder detection and alarm systems"

Located on the surviving remains of London’s first purpose-built theatre, New Inn Broadway is a new V&A museum exhibition and office building in Shoreditch. ‘The Theatre’ - which was the forerunner to ‘The Globe’- was originally built in 1576 and was home to some of William Shakespeare’s early plays. The five-storey building has been developed to celebrate the unique history of the site.New Inn Broadway is a location steeped in history.With its origins stretching back to Elizabethan times, and now playing host to the V&A and a commercial office space there was a lot to consider during the specification process.This dual purpose presented specific access concerns for the client, wanting to easily control who can move between the museum and office space, while also keeping everything secure. Allgood’s team of security and access control consultants worked with the client and electrical consultants to create a system design that met these requirements. This detailed technical planning was followed by careful execution and installation, using the latest in security and access control equipment.The final solution involved a state-of-the-art system that allows differing levels of access across the separate areas of the multi-use venue. This work was complemented with a coordinated ironmongery package including a complete Modric Doc M installation.Allgood Secure was specified by mechanical and electrical consultants Waterman Group to collaborate on system design, and supply and fit access control an audio visual intercom system, CCTV intruder detection, and an alarm system.As this was a multi-use development comprising the V&A museum as well as commercial office space, it was imperative that the building had a network access control system to manage access and maintain security as well as allow the end user to change access rights easily.Stainless steel entrance panels were specified at the main entrance doors and at the stairwells of each lettable office space floor, with a one-way video system that calls the internal handsfree monitors.A HD CCTV system was selected to allow remote monitoring from a different site, and a mixture of bullet and dome cameras were installed and finished in a bespoke RAL finish to complement the contemporary ceiling.Allgood Secure managed the installation of an intruder alarm system which features high-end technology offering peace of mind for staff.As well as a high-tech security system, Allgood’s Modric washroom package was specified by Gallus Studio architects, particularly its Doc M package.

A major global company selected Andel to install leak detection systems in multiple data centres, based on our approach, experience, quality and price. The end-user customer is one of the world’s leading digital infrastructure companies, providing a secure, sustainable, global collaboration platform to numerous industry-leading organisations in finance, manufacturing, retail, transportation, government, healthcare and education. The challengeThe data centres were built to the latest design specifications employing cutting-edge features and technologies. Mile upon mile of data network and power cable is installed under raised access floors where it can be organised and routed safely out of sight. The problem is that the same void, hidden from view, also contains water service pipes feeding air conditioning units, toilets and kitchens. A tailored, robust, hybrid solution needed to be installed meeting multiple requirements, primarily at low level, within the floor voids around the perimeter of the data halls with distance measuring systems monitoring CRAC units, plumbing and other plant. Additionally, a range of zonal systems provided early warning alarms and automatic isolation for water, refrigerant gas and oil leak detection.The solutionFloodline® HLD, Ranger® distance measuring system and a range of zonal senorsAndel’s Floodline® is a flexible, future-proof, zonal and distance measuring leak detection system. State-of-the-art, hybrid, Floodline® HLD multifunction control panels were installed in conjunction with Floodline Ranger® distance measuring systems and a range of zonal leak detection sensors including water, refrigerant gas and oil. Floodline® HLD control panel can monitor up to 224 zones using a combination of resistance-based and Modbus-enabled sensors.High-visibility Floodline Ranger® cable provides up to 1500 metres of continuous leak detection, detecting the presence of water and conductive liquid at any point along its entire length. Conductive-polymer technology construction makes the the sensor highly resistant to corrosion and abrasion. Sensor cable was strategically installed in floor voids to continually monitor the server halls, ensuring early leak detection through alarms and automatic valve shut-off systems.  The system triggers audio-visual alarms as well as sending onward communication to BMS. Resilient, sustainable, cost-effective, easy to install and maintain, Andel’s Floodline® is a flexible, future-proof, zonal and distance measuring leak detection system. Proactive approachPrior to installation, great care was given to ensure the customer was happy with all Andel’s Floodline® equipment and to demonstrate the superior build-quality and functionality and to allow the customer to see and handle the equipment first-hand. The customer was provided with all relevant technical specifications and user information. The project involved detailed assessment and planning for the five sites. Bespoke installation kits were manufactured in advance for each installation team. Andel put together mobile crews to visit each of the sites. The installation took 20 days from start to finish, meeting the deadline. The resultA successful leak detection installation that fulfills the customer’s brief, protecting priority servers and IT infrastructure in new major data centres. Installing Andel’s Floodline® leak detection systems now means the customer has:A cost-effective, reliable and low-maintenance leak detection system across five mission-critical sites.A bespoke, tailored solution for each site.Peace of mind with a leak detection system that will give early warning alarms and onward communication, allowing for evasive action to be taken to avoid any damage.A future-proof solution with a leak detection system where additional zones, sensors and upgrades can be added easily and cost effectively. What the customer said;We are delighted with the installation of the Ranger leak detection system across our sites. We feel at peace knowing our servers are protected with high quality systems providing realtime leak detection monitoring.Robert Gilbert, Project Manager

After a prestigious school near Birmingham suffered extensive damage when a leak went unchecked, we installed our award-winning leak detection system to prevent future devastationA tiny leak left to escalate at St George’s in Edgbaston ruined thousands of pounds of property and equipment and left the school without a properly functioning IT department. Leaks within buildings are very common and if not monitored can cause extensive damage, disruption and loss. So, once the school was back on its feet, we were delighted to work with their insurer, Hettle Andrews, to make sure the property was protected against future flooding. St George’s School, EdgbastonSt George’s School is a fully co-educational independent day school for children from ages three to 18 in Edgbaston, near Birmingham. Established as a charitable trust, the school opened in September 1999 as Birmingham’s first independent school to offer a complete education for boys and girls from kindergarten through to the sixth form.We worked with their insurance broker, Hettle Andrews, who facilitated the project. Hettle Andrews works primarily with schools, universities, colleges and charities. In the winter of 2021, the boiler in the room above the IT department of the school began to leak. The school was closed for the holiday period so no one went on-site and the leak went undetected. On return to the school in the New Year, staff discovered the leak which by that point had caused extensive damage.  The leak had not only destroyed the ceiling and light fittings but the whole IT department below including computers, carpets, plug points and furniture. The challengeNo warning: this was the first time anything like this had happened. There were no warning systems in place, nor were there any preventative measures. Extensive damage: the full ceiling had to be replaced, along with expensive light fittings, computers and IT equipment.Inconvenience: it resulted in substantial inconvenience and downtime for the department which in turn affected its daily function within the school.Disruption: the IT department had to be relocated elsewhere in the building, along with any remaining functioning equipment. Time-consuming process: while the damages were being claimed on insurance, the room was cleared and de-humidifiers installed to try and remove any remaining moisture.The solution;Andel Floodline®Andel's unique, award-winning water, oil and gas leak detection and monitoring solution. We are one of the global market leaders in leak detection systems and we knew our Floodline® solution would be a perfect fit. It is a true hybrid that can report to a single integrated control panel – unlike some other systems that require different alarm panels for different types of leak detection.Floodline® covers all possible leak detection requirements, from single-zone to multi-zone and distance measuring systems, with the capability to protect the largest of buildings, both old and new. Floodline® systems allow additional zones, sensors and upgrades to be added easily and cost-effectively so it is future-proof. So, we installed Floodline® SVCP – 2-Valve Control and Floodline® 1-Zone Leak Detection System. This means the school is now able to: Easily monitor all the Floodline® leak detection sensors installedEasily monitor the display LEDs which provide clear alarm information and system status for both leak detection and system faultHave peace of mind knowing the solenoid valve control panel will immediately close two solenoid valves in the event of a leak, ensuring the water source is stopped, preventing any damageBe alerted quickly as there is an audible alarm with a mute functionBe alerted when away from the property as output relays connect to a GSM communicator which sends out an SMS.The result;Bespoke solution: we were delighted to be able to come up with a tailored solution for St George’s School. Early warning: the boiler room at St George’s Edgbaston is now equipped with a bespoke leak detection system that will give early warning should there be any escaping water detected.Confidence: the client feels relieved and more confident now that our leak detection systems have been installed. Peace of mind: knowing they will no longer have to worry about leaks especially when there is no one on-site. Futureproofed: the school knows their chances of this occurring again and their building and equipment being unprotected have now drastically dropped. Community: as schools are the hubs of most communities, the last thing we want is for their day to day operations disrupted by escaping water, something which can be detected early and solutions provided easily. We are proud to have been involved in this project alongside Hettle Andrews and hope to work with more of their clients in future to provide proactive solutions.What the customer said;“We are relieved and more confident now that our leak detection systems have been installed. It has given us peace of mind, knowing we no longer have to worry about any leaks going undetected and resulting in catastrophic damage. The chances of this occurring again, meaning our building and equipment is unprotected, have now drastically dropped. We are really happy with the services and products provided by Andel and would happily recommend them.”Patrick Ryan, Maintenance Manager, St George’s School

Protecting detection systems is vital to fire safety with only a functioning smoke alarm able to protect you in an emergency.Landlord regulations and Government policesLandlords have responsibilities to keep tenants safe in their properties by providing functioning life safety equipment.Regulations introduced in 2015 require private sector landlords to ensure they ‘have at least one smoke alarm installed on every storey of their properties’ as a legal requirement.There is also a proposed change to this regulation, coming into effect later this year, which will mean social housing is also included, making it mandatory that all rented accommodation must have working smoke alarms fitted. It will also be compulsory for landlords to repair or replace any faulty alarms as soon as they are made aware of defects.Fines up to £5000To protect their tenant, it is the landlord’s responsibility to ensure detectors are fitted and working at the start of every new tenancy agreement. Failure to comply with The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations introduced in 2015 can result in a hefty fine of up to £5000.One exasperated landlord wrote online that in one of his properties “Two of the detector heads have been tampered with, presumably so that the tenants can smoke in their rooms”. Consequently, this had been causing false fire alarms and it is up to the landlord to repair or replace the alarm.In some extreme cases, landlords have discovered that smoke alarms have been removed all together from properties, due to disturbances when cooking, smoking, etc. It is then up to the landlord to replace the alarm, and so it is advisable to invest in measures to prevent the alarms removal; some recommendations have been made in government legislations such as BS 5839-6:2019.Ultimately, landlords should feel obligated to ensure regular testing of smoke alarms and the replacement of batteries in their properties to reduce the risk of void insurance or a remedial notice. Simply testing smoke alarms can also help to prevent any danger to tenants and damage to properties should a fire occur.BS 5839-6:2019The latest recommendations in BS 5839-6:2019 are primarily concerned with saving lives and reducing injuries caused by fire, but also covers reducing property damage, which can be extremely costly to landlords in the case of fires.The guidance in BS 5839-6:2019 suggests that in environments such as HMOs, where multiple occupants can be disturbed by false alarms, landlords could alter their smoke alarms systems to have delays before the signal is sent to all tenants for the occupier to investigate the cause. This can help to reduce complacency during false fire alarms or the temptation to dangerously compromise smoke alarms.The recommendation also states that landlords should seek alternative smoke alarms that can alert to intervention or disablement of the alarm in the event of tenants continually tampering.Tenants’ responsibilityAlthough it is the landlords legal duty to provide working smoke alarms in all properties, tenants must not tamper with smoke alarm, remove them, cover them up or in any other way damage or prevent them from operating in their intended manner. Failure to comply with this could result in the tenant facing a substantial fine, or termination of their tenancy agreement.It falls to the tenants to take their own safety into consideration and should contact landlords if there are any issues with smoke alarms, such as false fire alarms, so their landlord can test and replace the batteries, or alarms themselves if necessary. Preventing alarms from effectively detecting fires can result in fatal incidents and also fines for misconduct falling to the tenants.One student at Edinburgh University covered the smoke alarm in his room with bubble wrap whilst living in student accommodation. Preventing the smoke detector from working effectively proved a dangerous mistake when a fire started in his room and he had to be pulled to safety after being found struggling to escape the flames while the building was being evacuated. As a consequence for this reckless behaviour, he was fined and ordered to pay £1000 in compensation after being arrested and pleading guilty.Steel Web Stoppers®  Safety Technology International is a specialist manufacturer of a range of fire, safety and security products; their wire cages help to prevent tampering with essential life safety equipment, such as smoke alarms.STI’s Steel Web Stoppers®  are designed to protect against vandalism, misuse and damage to smoke and fire detectors. Constructed from plastic coated, heavy-duty galvanised steel rod, the Steel Web Stoppers can withstand the severest of abuse from vandalism or accidental damage. It also prevents tampering with the alarm, without hindering legitimate use, therefore still allowing the landlord to service the device and replace batteries when appropriate.

False fire alarms have risen by nearly 16% in just 6 years at NHS trusts across England; stretching resources, unsettling patients, and disrupting vital healthcare.Figures from NHS Digital reveal there were 19,566 false fire alarms at NHS trusts throughout 2020/21, with some trusts recording upwards of 500 false alarms.The worrying results reveal that both in the past year and historically, several patients have sustained ‘injuries during evacuation’, highlighting the damaging effects of an unnecessary evacuation.With appointments cancelled, operations delayed, and a fall in emergency department attendances during the period, we might have expected to see the number of false fire alarms fall significantly during the pandemic.At a time where it is vital to avoid the crowded corridors and large gatherings at assembly points that follow an evacuation, it has become even more pertinent to eradicate the causes of false alarms ensuring a socially distanced environment for vulnerable patients.Of the 19,566 false alarms 5,742 resulted in a callout, firefighters respond to all alarms as if they are real. This exposes the public and fire crews to unnecessary risk in their emergency response to unwanted fire signals, directing them away from real emergencies – threatening to place added pressure on the NHS.Across the 216 NHS trusts listed within the data, a total of 1,175 genuine fires were recorded.False alarms cost businesses and Fire and Rescue Service authorities an estimated £1 billion a year in the UK. In order to recoup this cost, the London Fire Brigade became the first fire service in the country to recover costs from hospitals with a poor false alarm record.A false alarm is a fire alarm signal caused by means other than a genuine fire, which has activated a fire detection and alarm system, these can include: equipment false alarm, environmental influences, accidental damage, and inappropriate human action, including the malicious activation of a manual call point.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.”This is supported by fire safety guidance set out by the Department of Health which outlines the importance of “initiating measures to reduce false alarms and unwanted fire signals,” such as “the provision of lift flaps, or lift flaps combined with a local alarm device [which] are sufficient to control the possibility of undesirable actuation by patients.”Safety Technology International manufacture a range of protective covers, from integral covers to outdoor and sounder models; there are variations to suit all applications. These covers are specifically designed to prevent false alarms whether accidental or malicious.The Call Point Stopper is a protective cover ideal for areas with a risk of accidental activation, such as hospitals and healthcare facilities. The polycarbonate cover does not restrict the legitimate operation of vulnerable call points and helps distinguish a fire call point from a green electronic door release – often located nearby, this is a common cause of false alarms.Fire crews recently attended a false fire alarm at the Royal Blackburn Hospital after a discharged patient broke five break glass call points. If there is a history of malicious activations whereby patients or visitors intentionally activate the fire alarms, causing unwanted evacuations and disrupting important healthcare, the Euro Stopper offers a solution.The Euro Stopper provides a tamper-proof cover featuring the same sturdy UV-stabilised polycarbonate housing as the Call Point Stopper with the useful addition of an optional integral sounder and glow-in-the-dark frame. The 96 dB sounder emits a piercing alarm when the cover is lifted drawing immediate attention to the area, acting as a pre-alarm in a real emergency.If further robust protection is still required the Universal Stopper provides IP56 protection from the elements, with a tough outer dome or low profile cover strong enough to withstand the severest of knocks from hospital beds, trollies, or wheelchairs. An optional sounder and break seal acts as an additional deterrent against malicious activation.Conforming up to IP66, the Enviro Stopper offers the same protection against both accidental and malicious activation whilst guarding against ingress in harsh environments, such as wet rooms or wash down areas.

Every false fire alarm is costly, but in a post-COVID world, there is now even more pressure on the leisure, retail, and hospitality industries to prevent false alarms in their premises.The leisure, retail, and hospitality industries were hit hard by COVID-19; as we begin to emerge from the pandemic businesses will be keen to make up for lost time, avoiding the loss in revenue caused by false fire alarms.Home Office figuresDespite two years of restrictions and lockdowns, false fire alarms continue to cost the UK, Home Office figures reveal that there were a total of 2,497 false fire alarms caused by the “malicious activation of [a] fire call point/alarm” in England for the year ending September 2021 – surpassing challenged hoax calls as the largest reason for malicious fire alarms.Accidental activations too remained a significant cause of false alarms; 12,732 false fire alarms were recorded due to the accidental and careless activation of fire alarm and fire-fighting equipment, including manual call points.With the restrictions, closures, and reduced footfall faced by businesses, we might have expected to see the number of false fire alarms fall significantly during the pandemic. This serves as a timely reminder of the persistence of unwanted fire alarm signals, and the need for leisure, retail, and hospitality premises to seek a solution to avoid further disruptions post-COVID.Although necessary once a fire alarm sounds, a preventable evacuation ultimately means unhappy customers, disruption for businesses, and unnecessary strain for our stretched emergency services.At a time where it is prudent to avoid the crowded corridors and large gatherings at assembly points that follow a needless false alarm evacuation, it has become even more important to prevent false alarms.Continuing to be the largest incident type, false fire alarms accounted for 41 per cent of the incidents attended by Fire and Rescue Services in England for the period – fires accounted for just 27 per cent.Over £1 billionWith 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 including leisure, retail, and hospitality premises, with a poor false alarm record.A false alarm is defined as a fire alarm signal caused by means other than a genuine fire, which has activated a fire detection and alarm system, these can include: equipment false alarm, environmental influences, accidental damage, and inappropriate human action, including the malicious activation of a manual call point.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 to call points is a must to assure proper operation, but it is not the only proactive approach.BS 5839-1:2017As recommended in BS 5839-1:2017 manual call points should 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.”Following the introduction of the new recommendations in 2017 malicious false fire alarms have fallen by 18%, an indication of the effectiveness of protective covers, however, every false alarm is still costly.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.LeisureLeisure premises are particularly susceptible to false fire alarms, whether it be wayward sports equipment in sports hall and gymnasiums, or high-traffic areas in music venues, cinemas, and theatres.Concerts, football matches, and even pantomimes have all been interrupted mid-performance in the UK, and in some cases even cut short by false fire alarms – resulting in disgruntled fans and calls for refunds.Government fire safety guidance for theatres, cinemas, and similar premises, highlights the need for protective covers to combat both accidental and malicious activations: “To reduce the risk of malicious or accidental operation which may promote panic you should consider as part of your management plan alternative arrangements such as the guarding of manual call points (e.g. with a simple, easily removed, cover).”A hinged cover around a call point is also likely to solve the problem of accidental activation or damage in storage areas where there is a continual movement of equipment.Whilst guidance for open air events and venues draws attention to the high risk of malicious activations in certain public areas, such as large beer tents – in this instance, alarmed call point covers might be more effective.RetailFor retail premises, trollies and shopping bags threaten the accidental activation of manual call points and the evacuations that follow threaten both a loss of customers and profit. However, robust polycarbonate covers can be fitted to protect sensitive break glass units and deflect heavy blows.This is reinforced by the Government’s fire safety risk assessment for shops: “False alarms from electrical fire warning systems are a major problem (e.g. malicious activation of manual call points) and result in many unwanted calls to the fire and rescue service every year.”Shopping centres and supermarkets are regularly forced to evacuate hundreds of shoppers due to unwanted fire alarm signals; abandoning their shopping on conveyor belts, baskets, and trollies. Owing to the disruption many choose not to return to complete their purchases.HospitalityThis phenomenon can be particularly detrimental for the hospitality industry, where evacuations following false fire alarms leave restaurants and bars vulnerable to incidents of “dine and dash.” Some hospitality premises have lost out on upwards of £1,000 when customers walked off without paying after a false alarm.Fire safety guidance for licensed premises reinforces the need to put a stop to false fire alarms within the industry: “Fire alarm systems should normally conform to the current edition of BS 5839, with consideration made for prevention of false alarms.”Alarm fatigueRepeated false alarms reduce the public’s confidence in fire alarms, contributing to alarm fatigue and a complacent attitude towards 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 – having potentially fatal effects.The Manchester Woolworths fire in 1979 is a devastating example of alarm fatigue, as the fire alarm sounded customers were reluctant to leave the store. By the time they realised they were in danger, it was too late, ten people died in the blaze.Alarm fatigue also poses a serious threat to the hospitality industry, with Government fire safety guidance for sleeping accommodation, such as hotels, stating: “If there are excessive false alarms in your premises, people may become complacent and not respond correctly to a warning of a real fire. In such circumstances, you may be failing to comply with fire safety law. All false alarms should be investigated to identify the cause of the problem and remedial action taken.”In some areas of hospitality premises, such as function rooms in a hotel, call points can be vulnerable to malicious and accidental activations – to reduce this risk, protection for manual call points is advised.Some hotel guests react casually to fire alarms, often wrongfully believing them to be a “hoax” or “prank”, reducing response time and delaying evacuation. As recommended in BS 5839-1:2017 manual call points can be fitted with a protective cover preventing false alarms whether accidental or malicious, halting alarm fatigue.Call point protectorsSafety 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.As we enter transition to the “new normal” it is imperative the leisure, retail, and hospitality industries prevent false fire alarms in their premises. Conforming to BS 5839-1:2017 to protect manual call points from false activation, whether accidental or malicious. Not only to aid economic recovery post-pandemic but to keep fire safety at the forefront of customers’ minds. Failure to address false fire alarms allows alarm fatigue to manifest, and this can prove to be costly – in every sense of the word.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) have announced their new policy on Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) that came into effect at the start of this month.The policy affects all calls to the fire control operators who will confirm a fire before the incident requires the fire service to be dispatched.Scotland have a continuously high rate of false alarms attended by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, with over 57,000 unnecessary journeys a year. This is why the new policy adopts a ‘call challenge’ policy to reduce the number of false fire alarms attended by the service.False fire alarms cause disruption in various ways, from impacting the time and resources of fire and rescue services, implicating people’s safety and harmfully impacting the environment. False alarms are also costly procedures, not only for the Fire Service but also businesses where the false alarm takes place.These UFAS have many detrimental effects:They impact on resources available to attend real fires.They impact on time available for other valuable work, such as training and community safety activities. Where fire crews comprise on-call (retained) fire fighters, the crews may be unnecessarily taken away from their place of work.They impact on road safety, as a result of fire appliances travelling under emergency conditions.They impact on the environment from the number of appliance journeys. The new guidance on safe investigation of unwanted fire alarm signals aims to challenge calls to confirm fire or signs of fire in order to ensure resources and time are being used effectively. However, the SFRS will continue to attend calls received from automatic fire alarm systems and if the signal has been initiated by a manual call point (MCP), heat or smoke detector or sprinkler system, in premises in which people sleep. There will also be fire service attendance in non-sleeping risks if there is physical signs or technological indication of a real fire, such as the fire alarm signal triggered by a manual call point.Although the policy will significantly reduce the number of false alarms attended by fire crews, there is still more to be done to decrease the vast number of unnecessary call outs.Protective covers from STI help to reduce both malicious and accidental activations of manual call points, available in various sizes, mounting options and custom text available to suit all applications. The tough polycarbonate covers have been specifically designed to help deter false alarms and prevent vandalism of various devices. The range of Call Point Protectors are highly effective without restricting legitimate operation of the devices, meaning they are easily accessed in emergency situations.For more information on the new policy, visit the FIA website here: https://www.fia.uk.com/news/guidance-on-safe-investigation-of-fire-alarm-signals-in-scotland.html?utm_source=Fire%20Industry%20Association&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=14001136_June%202023%20MMU

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.

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.”

Providing a bespoke leak detection solution for a major European data centre provider

Cyclepods have recently completed a project with train operating company, London Midland. This involved the provision of 470 new cycle parking spaces at 6 stations in a limited timescale. These stations were; Watford Junction, Northampton, Bletchley, Walsall and Alvechurch.

Hush Pro, C-TEC’s revolutionary BS 5839-6 Grade C domestic fire detection and alarm system, is now protecting three iconic tower block developments in Manchester.Located in the centre of Piccadilly, Oxygen Towers is a striking set of three new 31-storey, 16-storey and 10-storey buildings consisting of 345 stylish 1, 2 and 3-bedroomed apartments and 12 spacious family townhouses. Designed to provide the ultimate living experience, the futuristic ‘vertical village’ combines luxury accommodation with fabulous five-star leisure facilities including a swimming pool, cinema, gym and spa. The stunning development also features lush garden terraces and rooftop gardens.Selected for its cutting-edge technology and capacity to align with the building’s fire strategy, Hush Pro integrates with the site’s BS 5839 part 1 landlord system to offer higher levels of fire protection than the Grade D unmonitored battery alarm systems typically used in domestic installations. As a fully-monitored BS 5839-6 Grade C system, Hush Pro reports open and short circuit faults and operation faults back to the fire panel and even allows management and maintenance companies to remotely monitor the system. Each of the flats features an easily accessible low-level Hush Pro Controller connected to a series of Hush Pro smoke detectors, base sounders, multi-sensors and heat detectors all seamlessly interfaced to a powerful network of C-TEC 4-loop ZFP addressable fire control panels to provide all-encompassing fire and fault monitoring of the system. If, for any reason, part of the domestic fire alarm is compromised, this will immediately be reported to the building management team to allow them to action the fault and re-instate full fire detection coverage to the flat.Said Dan Perry, Projects Manager at Solid State, the specialist fire and security company involved with the design and delivery of the project: “As well as enhancing the fire safety management, property and life protection of the buildings, a key factor in our client’s decision to invest in Hush Pro was the system’s ability to notify building management in the event of a real fire and, at the same time, its potential to virtually eliminate false alarms.”“Hush Pro’s unique capacity to differentiate between Fire Level 1, usually a false alarm reported locally in the dwelling, and Fire Level 2, almost always a real alarm activated outside of the dwelling, reduces false fire alarms, unnecessary call-outs and the risk of a real fire alarm being ignored. As our client requires immediate notification in the event of a fire but also first-class false alarm management, Hush Pro is ideal.”“Also of vital importance to our client is that, as the project consists of private balconies with an open plan flat arrangement, Hush Pro is the only fire alarm solution that can actually meet the requirements of BS 9991 Annex D3.”Said Jason Lawler, 24-7’s Group Director and the person responsible for delivering the electrical and mechanical systems for the project: “Hush Pro is an outstanding solution. The system provides residents with easy-to-use detection, alarm, silencing and test facilities so they can test their own devices, be alerted to system faults and hush any false alarms at the Hush Button which is positioned at light-switch level for safe and easy access. Hush Pro’s powerful false alarm management capability will also prove invaluable at the site.”Said Dan: “Client satisfaction is incredibly important to Solid State so we were delighted to be able to specify a robust and fully-compliant integrated BS 5839 Part 1 and Part 6 fire alarm solution for Oxygen Towers. With its capacity to provide high levels of fire protection yet also minimise costly and disruptive false alarms, Hush Pro is fast becoming the system of choice for fire strategy engineers and consultants dedicated to enhancing fire safety in high-rise residential and specialist housing projects throughout the UK.”

Park Quadrant Residences presents a collection of timelessly classic yet contemporary apartments, duplexes and penthouses combining bold, modern designs with a graceful sensitivity to the area’s celebrated 19th Century architecture and landscaping.  Contractor: PQ ResidencesArchitect: Holmes MillerProducts supplied: Intruder alarms, CCTV, Access Control and Video Intercoms

The Junipers is the first of its kind in the south west of England; offering inpatient support that's closer to home for people with complex mental health needs. The design of the purpose-built unit included input from experts by lived experience and is truly a facility designed with people in mind. When we first discussed the plans for The Junipers PICU with Devon Partnership, we knew it was an opportunity to work together to create a new state-of-the-art ward. After reviewing their options, Devon Partnership chose to install our full doorset range. We worked closely with them before, during and after installation to ensure all of the doors and locksets were operating to help both patients and staff.

Sowenna - the first of it's kind for Cornwall Partnership NHS FT - is a purpose-built child and adolescent mental health (CAMHS) unit, providing inpatient treatment for young people aged between 13 and 18 years. The project had huge local demand, with young people and their families previously having to travel out of county for vitally important care.Thoughtfully designed by Ryder Architecture, the unit focuses on non-institutional safety, wellbeing and recovery.

Back in 2019, the William's Group opened the doors to their brand-new flagship automotive retail store based in Trafford City. The store was set to home luxury brands such as MINI, BMW, Land Rover and Jaguar all within one compound. This meant they needed an effective perimeter security system that would hold up against intruders onto the site and also added protection around the showrooms that would house these luxury cars. For the entire perimeter protection, they selected the Eclipse-60 V Mesh Profiled Fencing to deter vandals and intruders, whilst opting for the Securus-Lite SR1 358 Fencing to encompass the showrooms for that additional level of security they required. The Williams Group also chose the SlideMaster Sliding Gate as the perfect match for their ingress and egress security.

One of the UK’s largest utility companies required adequate security protection to their portable water sites. Water is treated from the local river supply at the site, which then supplies the local area. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the site is protected from any trespassers or any other miscreants who may be up to no good. Sites of this nature must be kept safe and secure to ensure that the water supplies to the public are kept as clean and safe as possible. The site is operated 24/7 and required additional security support to ensure the large site is kept safe and secure.Project Brief for Water Treatment Works SecurityThe site is required to be protected in line with the company Risk-Based Approach (RBA) and security requirements from DEFRA with recommended security upgrades to the physical perimeter security fencing, video surveillance systems (VSS), access control and intruder detection systems.Perimeter security fencing was required to be upgraded to at least LPS 1175 SR2 (B3) level with detection and access control and careful consideration to the surrounding forest, home to several animals, including Wild Boar. This causes several problems for the site, including damage to the existing fence and potential water quality issues. In addition, the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) are particularly interested in the vermin and pest control for the site, so designing the security solution had to consider this.The SolutionBinns Security was appointed as principal contractor for CDM and project managed the whole project from start to finish, including coordinating works. Based on the site's requirements, Zaun’s HiSec Super SR2 fencing was selected to upgrade the existing non-rated perimeter fencing and gates to LPS1175 SR2 standards, providing the client with perimeter fencing system with a guaranteed delay of at least 3 minutes.Designed with a height of 2.4m as a minimum with a 358 anti-climb mesh configuration makes it very difficult to scale and prevents climbing aids. To combat vermin and pest control, the perimeterfencing is also required to be buried at 300mm, which stops the vermin and also prevents burrowing from any potential intruders.Both pedestrian and vehicular gates were also upgraded to LPS1175 SR2 to match the fence line and provide operational access without compromising the site's security. This single layered LPS1175 SR2 rated fencing system was accompanied by Harper Chalice’s perimeter intrusion detection system (PIDS) FenceSecure, which provides an early warning for any unauthorised access. Additionally, this system provided a full perimeter PID system covering fencing, gates and pedestrian access points.more...

Throughout many years, Dart Valley Systems continue to improve washroom facilities and assist in saving water and money across Tesco stores nationwide.The push taps installed in the washrooms were running longer than required. DVS recommended automatic taps as the lifetime is longer and potentially, up to 30% savings can be made. Even though flow rates may be similar, automatic taps will only run when they are detecting hands. See table below detailing estimated savings at this store when using automatic taps.

HM Prison Belmarsh is a category A prison containing some of the UK’s most dangerous and high profile criminals. Being one of the UK’s most secure prisons, it is often used to contain prisoners in cases where national security is threatened.Roché are proud to play a key part in keeping the prison safe and secure. We worked alongside Protec Fire Detection PLC to deliver 14 fire-rated shutters that were tied into the prison’s security and fire management system. As well as being used for fire containment, the shutters are used as emergency segregation barriers, to reliably close-off and lock down cell blocks in case of prisoner unrest.

HMS Belfast, the most significant surviving Royal Navy warship from the Second World War, has been equipped with L1 category fire systems from Advanced. The decommissioned destroyer, which is permanently moored as a museum ship on the River Thames in London, was fitted with eight-loop and two-loop MxPro 5 fire panels, plus a TouchControl touchscreen remote control terminal and repeater.Fitted on behalf of the Imperial War Museum, which owns and operates the historic vessel, the new fire system covers six of the warship’s nine decks, as well as its on-shore visitor pavilion.Advanced’s long-standing partner, ADI Global, was responsible for the supply of the fire alarm control panels for the project at HMS Belfast, while facilities services company Atalian Servest was responsible for the installation, commissioning and networking of the fire panels in accordance with BS 5839. The panels were integrated with around 700 Apollo XP95 detectors and interfaced with VESDA aspirating smoke detection.

When a significant UK security site needed a complete upgrade to its perimeter fencing, Zaun stepped in with a cost-effective and highly secure solution.The task aheadDue to the compassionate nature of the site, guarding against the physical threat and providing a visual screen was important. Therefore, the perimeter had to meet the high standards of the Centre for Protection of National Infrastructure [CPNI] and be capable of housing Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems [PIDS] – a sensor mounted on the fence.As there was no current security fencing system that includes a visual block approved by CPNI, it was thought that two fences were required. One of these fences would provide high-security protection and the other a screen from prying eyes.Installing an additional conventional louvre screen would have been expensive and taken up too much room, so Zaun’s development team came up with a solution to address both of these issues.The Patent Pending system uses horizontal louvres that cleverly link into the mesh; this keeps cost and size down as the mesh itself becomes part of the louvre system. The furthermore, them grabs the wires as it is installed to ensure a tight fit, thus preventing rattles that might interfere with the acoustic PIDS system. This clever design saves costs and space. In addition, the product can be configured to provide varying degrees of screening.What Was SuppliedCPNI approved HiSec Super 6 high-security fencing system is designed for sensitive, high-profile sites. The vertical wires are 6mm in diameter with 76.2mm x 12.7mm spacings, enhancing a standard 358 system.Louvre privacy screens are easily attached to the robust fencing eliminating the need for two sets of fencing. Manufactured from 2mm thick steel sheets, which are folded to form the louvre. The galvanised sheets cleverly grab onto the mesh as they are installed, improving privacy and making the 358 mesh more rigid.This whole private and secure fencing system can also have PIDS easily attached. These mounted detection systems give early warning to any attempts of intrusion, whether penetration or climbing. It offers discreet monitoring and early warning and can be fitted on existing fencing units.

RAF Akrotiri is home to the Cyprus Operations Support Unit providing joint support to British Forces Cyprus and operations in the region to protect the UK’s strategic interests.The base was opened in 1955 to initially relieve the pressure on the main RAF station on the island, and has since grown into a forward thinking training unit. However, back in October 2015 the RAF base was subject to many reports when 114 refugees landed at the British Sovereign base; a critical front line station for the MOD and Royal Air Force.The BriefIn order to detect, deter and delay any potential threat, the client had a number of requirements to meet the increasing level of security for the base.Increase protection of assets and personnel with their security fence line.Approved for Government Use fencing system.Provide a robust solution to stand up against the rigours of daily life and exposure to harsh aviation fuels.

Hammerson House will be a world-class, 116-bed residential centre for the elderly Jewish Community in Hampstead. Newton Specialist Contractor Cast Contracting Ltd (CCL) were approached during the planning stages to develop a comprehensive waterproofing solution for the extensive basement.CCL recommended the installation of a Newton CDM water management system to comprehensively waterproof the extensive basement. First, they employed the 8mm Newton 508 membrane to the concrete retaining walls of the basement. The 50mm thick Fibran XPS 500-C insulation was then installed beneath more 508 membrane across the entire concrete slab. Additionally, Basedrain drainage channel was installed around the perimeter, including inspection ports to provide a fully maintainable system.This entire system is served by a series of complete sump and pump systems, each consisting of primary and backup NP400 pumps, high water level alarms, and battery backup systems. These are all controlled by Newton’s advanced Control Panel-Pro to ensure a failsafe system, even during a power outage.Finally, Newton’s 107F cementitious waterproof membrane was spray applied to the concrete upstands of the lightwells and lift pits in order to complete the continuous watertight solution.

An innovative door design was required for a new manufacturing process about to be introduced in the new Nissan battery plant manufacturing facility. Project/doors:100 Bespoke Conveyor screensThe challengeNissan required a unique door for a new production facility. The doors needed to give 60-minute fire resistance and be capable of completing up to 400,000 open/close cycles a year. Further, the doors needed to meet strict air leakage criteria and be able to withstand sudden air-pressure increases. The doors also had to interface with third-party equipment such as conveyor belt controls and fire alarms. Each required an LCD display control panel that provided a quick and easy diagnosis of what each door was doing at any point in time. The solution Using an already proven design solution which Hart developed for the baggage handling system in Heathrow’s Terminal 5, Hart adapted the product to suit this new requirement. As this was not a product already on offer, invention and rigorous testing were required.The successA decade has passed since the doors were installed and commissioned. The facility continues the manufacture of the battery cells and the doors remain a critical part of the success of the plant and have proved exceptional reliability and total cost of ownership

One of the newest – and very impressive – developments in the City, 22 Bishopsgate offers visitors retail, work and restaurant space over 60 floors. It is actually the tallest building in the City of London.A flexible solution was required for this project, to include life safety communication for the entire building. At the forefront of the design was the need for a plan for phased evacuation using the life safety systems. The VIGIL3 voice alarm and OmniCare emergency voice communication systems were quoted for the project due to their reliability and capability.The project required new voice alarm and EVC systems which were specified and installed by PHF Fire. The EN54 certified VIGIL3 voice alarm includes 70 space saving, wall-mounted Eclipse4s and two floor standing racks, networked around the building. The voice alarm network is accessed by the touch screen control microphone, with its user-friendly NFC card sign-in option.The EVC system solution, OmniCarePLUS, includes fire telephones, combined fire telephones with disabled refuge outstations, disabled toilet alarms, advanced disabled refuge outstations and standard disabled refuge outstations. These made up the remaining call points on the system, a lot of which were in a stainless steel finish, to match the high quality aesthetic of the building.Installed by PHF Fire, Baldwin Boxall worked together with the team to aid in the design and commissioning of the systems.Sam Faulkner, Maintenance Manager at PHF Fire commented, “Baldwin Boxall was specified alongside other companies. However, the level of support that Baldwin Boxall gives throughout the project, from start to finish, set them apart from the competition.”Chris Hartup, Sales Manager at Baldwin Boxall said, “This new build project called for a very capable, reliable and professional fire alarm contractor and with the contract being awarded to PHF Fire, they certainly got that. Due to limited floor space, the Eclipse4s were installed into riser cupboards within the building, providing further redundancy to the end user.PHF Fire had a fantastic, positive relationship, not only with their client but also their whole supply chain. We had many meetings and presentations on site with the whole 22 Bishopsgate team.It was a great experience to be involved in this project and with PHF Fire throughout.”

The Wilberforce Trust is a charity dedicated to helping and empowering those with sight and hearing loss and impairment in the York and North Yorkshire area to live fulfilling and independent lives. The Trust had tenants in community based supported housing and family homes around York but wanted to deliver an innovative ‘extra care’ housing scheme designed especially for people with a visual impairment and other disabilities; the first of its kind in the area.Wilberforce House offers 30 one-bed, open-plan purpose-built, self-contained apartments along with a Living & Learning Zone – providing education and leisure activities – a courtyard cafe and offices for the Trust itself, all set in four acres of accessible landscaped gardens, including a large sensory garden. The apartments utilise smart home and assistive technology personalised to their lifestyle needs.A consultant was employed to review the development’s plans with regard to fire safety. His report included recommendations for additional fire safety measures including the ability for cooker hobs to be switched off by an alarm, as kitchen fires are a significant risk with 50% of all accidental house fires starting in the kitchen. WHY THE FIRECHIEF KITCHEN STOVE GUARD? The initial solution proposed was costly as it meant hob alarms would need to be hard wired into each apartment’s fuse board. Damian Pocknell, Head of Housing, Facilities & IT at the Wilberforce Trust recalled having seen and read about the Firechief Kitchen Stove Guard and realised that this would be much more cost effective. The fire consultant agreed and subsequently signed off on the Kitchen Stove Guard as the approved solution.  

Fire and security service providers, Securecom Claddagh Ltd, carried out the replacement and upgrade of an ageing fire alarm system, installing a Go panel in each of the three-storey apartment blocks.A Go panel was installed near the front door of each building, covering their hallways and landlord areas. The panels were hard-wire integrated with Apollo detectors and with a CSL fire-specific remote monitoring communication device that communicates to an alarm receiving centre, allowing the relevant key holders to be informed when triggered.Securecom Claddagh has been using Advanced fire panels for a number of years in its projects due to their ease of programming and standardisation across sites, as well as the panels allowing effective technical phone support from Advanced in the event of a fault or unwanted alarm.

In preparation for the 2012 Olympics, where over 10,000 athletes from more than 200 countries competed in London, Zaun developed a walkway system that would enable technicians to work safely at height to install fencing as well as attach CCTV and security enhancements to the highest parts of the fencing.Project ChallengesThe project required a range of unique and innovative solutions because of the varied challenges that were in play. The system needed to adhere to strict health and safety regulations, especially as working at heights has many potential dangers, and worker safety is a huge priority. We needed to create a cost-effective solution that installers could use in various venues and areas.We also needed to ensure that this walkway system did not damage the 358 mesh. The walkway also needed to facilitate the repair and installation of Perimeter Intrusion Detection (PID) and pulse-monitored electric fencing systems and razor wire. As such, it was essential that installers could easily and safely access materials, equipment and tools.Biggest Sporting Event In The WorldAs the Olympics is one of the biggest events in the world, global attention was on London and the various venues needed to be as secure as possible. From camera operators and athletes to volunteers and security personnel, the huge number of people involved in the Olympics meant that the security team needed to be able to see as much as possible at all times. To do this, it was best to put the security monitoring equipment along the fence line to survey the whole area and reduce the requirement for additional civils for CCTV cameras. Security measures during big events like the Olympics need to be incredibly stringent. The installation of these surveillance and security measures is of utmost importance to the security of the entire event.Innovative Walkway SystemZaun designed and manufactured a unique walkway system that allowed installers to work at heights safely without damaging the mesh fencing. Our innovative system was designed specifically to support the installation and maintenance of 358 security mesh fencing, CCTV cameras and electric fencing at the top of the fence line. We created an innovative walkway solution that easily attached to 358 mesh so technicians could check and access the security measures whilst safely working at height.

Hart Door Systems has worked with a number of UK water companies to improve site security and efficiency. In particular the need to secure remote and often unstaffed but vitally important sites. Water sites have particular needs which require reliable and secure doors and the engineering expertise that Hart offer.The challenge This Yorkshire Water had 3 existing un-secure horizontal doors. These manual operation doors had fallen into disrepair and presented a security risk. Automatic doors were required to provide efficiency and security. The solution The Hart solution was to install its roller shutters, fitted in a customised way to suit the environment and to ensure security, ease of installation and minimum disruption. One of the things Hart has significant experience in is fitting doors that add security features but without the need for additional structural works. Disruption was further minimised by working in collaboration with the main construction contractor, scheduling the work to fit in with not only the day to day operations, but other work happening concurrently.Because of Hart’s experience on sites such, existing vital operations were worked around – which continued during the removal of the old doors and installation of the new. The success Several more SR rated doors are planned at the same site, so that the company can replicate the success and the improved security that has been provided.Hart has gained invaluable experience working with various water companies installing high specification SR rated security shutters. These doors meet an established set of standards to prevent unauthorised access and have been tested and shown to minimise the threat of certain intruder attacks.For those sites that need constant access by people and / or traffic, the Speedor brand of doors can provide additional high speed operation. Speedor and SR doors can be used in combination to give complete flexibility and the best of both worlds.

Safety Technology International have donated protective covers to help a local community charity with false alarms at a time when they need it most.Wildgoose Rural Training is a charitable care farm in Hallow, just outside of Worcester, that supports adults and young people with a variety of learning disabilities.Starting in 2000 with just a handful of students, Wildgoose has grown into a 42-acre site with a thriving 6-acre farm where students from all backgrounds can learn horticulture, animal care, woodworking, arts and crafts, and carry out conservation work.Wildgoose supports students in a ‘happy and inclusive family atmosphere’ and focuses on teaching practical and meaningful land-based skills.One student had recently taken a liking to setting off the fire alarms in the main building at Wildgoose, resulting in frequent unnecessary evacuations.Not only did this cause a great deal of upheaval in having to evacuate the students from their buildings to the fire assemble points, but in students with sensory sensitivity and hearing issues these fire alarms caused a great deal of distress, panic and shock.On contact with STI, Wildgoose were recommended the Euro Stopper® call point covers with a sounder alarm to discourage the student from setting off the fire alarm. The protective covers were duly installed over the call points in their main building to prevent accidental or malicious tampering with the fire alarm without restricting legitimate operation in an emergency.Managing director of Wildgoose Rural Training Centre, Jim Hidderley said: “The call point covers provided by STI have reduced our regular false fire alarms from a weekly occurrence down to 0, the covers with sounders prove to be a sufficient deterrent from any mischievous hands.”“More importantly, the cover has ensured that our students are not put under any stress that is unwarranted due to false fire alarm triggering”The Euro Stopper® is a tough polycarbonate cover that can withstand the toughest of knocks and has an optional 96dB integral sounder that draws immediate attention to the area to dissuade unwanted activation of call points, therefore reducing false fire alarms.

Amongst the three solutions offered Intastop’s Door Top Alarm was considered to be the best option. The conclusion of the clinical group was that the Intastop Door Top Alarm would provide a robust assistance aid to ward staff and provide an early warning measure.

A QuickZone conventional fire alarm system from UK manufacturer, Advanced, has been installed at BlocHaus Climbing, Manchester’s newest bouldering wall.BlocHaus Climbing boasts an array of facilities at its East Manchester site, including 130 climbable boulders, routing roof and on-site café. As part of the active fire protection for the site, the 4-zone QuickZone conventional fire panel from Advanced has been installed alongside Hochiki conventional heat/smoke detectors, Apollo conventional call points and Roshni conventional sounders.Responsible for the design, installation and commissioning of the fire system at BlocHaus Climbing were Manchester-based, Surefire Protection Ltd. Surefire installed the QuickZone panel alongside music shutdown integration to ensure clear audible notification for all building users in scenarios where the system goes into alarm.

25 Churchill Place is a 23 storey commercial office tower in Canary Wharf, London. The tower includes 20 floors of high quality (Grade A) office space and is one of the most energy efficient office buildings in the area. Environmental features include lifts that store energy that is re-used elsewhere in the building, and also a highly efficient air conditioning system.Standing at 130m tall, 25 Churchill Place has a VIGIL2 EVAS voice alarm system and an Omnicare EVC system installed.Initially the voice alarm system was installed to service the ‘shell and core’ of the building, with the system racks being designed and built to enable the fitting of ‘tenant’ functionality as and when required. This process is easily achieved due to the modular design of a VIGIL voice alarm system and is a frequently used benefit for ‘new builds’.For the disabled refuge and fire telephone system (EVC), the loop wired Omnicare system was chosen. Canary Wharf Contractors (landlord of BP4) opted for the dual coloured combined fire telephone (red)/disabled refuge (green) outstation which provides users with a choice of communication method.Both systems were designed and installed by Global Fire & Security Systems - one of our Gold Account achievers. Commenting on the installation, Stuart Beeley, Operations Director, Global Fire & Security Systems, said “We have worked closely with Canary Wharf Contractors and Baldwin Boxall on many great projects, and BP4 is another one to add to that list. We choose Baldwin Boxall systems, not only because we know them to be well built and reliable, but because of the support we receive from the company - at all levels.”

Located in Earls Court, London, the Lillie Square development will eventually stretch from Chelsea football ground to Kensington Olympia, and comprises of over 800 multi-million pound luxury dwellings. The development will also contain London’s largest private residents’ club, which boasts a lounge, library, private dining room, cinema, gym, spa facilities and 20 metre swimming pool with jacuzzi.Lillie Square Phase 1 required the formation of a watertight basement to house the luxury private residents club serving the entire property development. A large portion of this luxury clubhouse, including a swimming pool, spa, sauna, steam room, gym and function room, is below ground. The project therefore required robust waterproofing to protect the internal environment.Newton Specialist Contractor Stonehosue were consulted at an early stage to be part of the design team and provide a guaranteed waterproofing solution that would comply with the requirements of both BS 8102:2009 and any third-party warranty providers.The long-term partnership between Newton Waterproofing Systems and experienced Specialist Contractor Stonehouse has seen both companies partner on a vast portfolio of properties across the UK, and Stonehouse brought this experience to the table at Lillie Square.In order to provide the maximum level of protection, Stonehouse combined two Types of waterproofing in order to achieve a completely dry ‘Grade 3’ internal environment as per the recommendations of BS 8102:2009.The first of these products was the Type A, cementitious, liquid-applied waterproofing membrane Newton 107F, which was particularly suitable to this large-scale project due to the fact that it could be quickly spray-applied over large areas.The 107F was supported by the Type C Newton CDM System cavity drain waterproofing, installed throughout the basement area of the clubhouse, with four Titan-Pro sump chambers containing dual NP400 pumps, as well as Newton High Water Alarms, Inverters and Battery Back-Up protection creating a truly failsafe system.By working with Sir Robert McAlpine at the design stage it was possible to consider the lifetime performance of the structure as well as the cost in order to design and install thorough waterproofing protection.

Aico’s award-winning 3000 Series range of alarms have been specified across Paradigm's housing portfolio, upgrading their alarms to a minimum D1 Grade, LD2 Category in line with the recommendations and best practice guidance outlined within BS5839-6:2019+A1:2020.

Berneslai Homes launched the essential rollout of 18,500 Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms across their housing portfolio. This large-scale project had to be completed in a tight time scale to remain compliant ahead of the changes to the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 for England.