Fire protection for open plan apartment, Leicester.
Project Overview:
- Client: Property developer
- Location: Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
- Property Type: 3 Storey building, fully refurbished to create 4 exceptional city centre apartments.
- Scope: Installation of Automist fire suppression system to 3rd storey open plan flat with inner room.
Introduction:
In Leicester city centre, a prominent property developer embarked on a project to construct a set of four contemporary open plan apartments. However, the sought after appeal of open plan living often requires additional fire protection to comply with the requirements of UK building regulations. Acknowledging the importance of modern fire safety standards and compliance with building regulations, the developers enlisted the expertise of Fire Mist. Following a thorough site survey, Fire Mist produced a design and full installation package for the full turn-key installation of an Automist fire suppression system. The Automist system was fully installed in 1 day, without any requirements placed on other trades and no making good required following installation completion.
Challenges:
- City Center Location: At the time of installation, the Leicester city centre apartments were complete and ready for handover. The Automist system needed to be installed without interfering with the finished surfaces of the open plan apartment.
- Safety Compliance: Meeting stringent fire safety regulations was essential to ensure the apartment was in compliance with building regulations and standards.
- Preserving Aesthetics: The property developer sought to install an advanced fire suppression system that would fit seamlessly into the open plan area and protect the escape route from the upper floor.
The Fire Mist Ltd Installation Package:
1. Site Assessment: A full site assessment of the project was carried out by Fire mist to identify the installation process that would be most suitable for the open plan apartment.
2. Customised System Design: Following the site survey, Fire Mist produced an Automist system design for approval by the Leicester-based building developer, the project building control company and Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service.
3. High-Quality Automist Installation: The Fire Mist team of trained specialists carried out the installation of the Automist system to the 3rd storey apartment. The installation process adhered to industry best practices and the highest safety standards.
4. Commissioning: Once fully installed, Fire Mist commissioned the Automist systems to ensure that all components were operating correctly and within specified parameters.
5. Compliance Documentation: Fire Mist provided comprehensive documentation, including certificates of commissioning.
6. Client Training: The property developer’s team received in-depth training on system operation and maintenance, ensuring they could effectively manage the Automist systems in the future.
Results:
The installation of the Automist fire suppression system by Fire Mist in the 3rd storey open plan apartment in Leicester city centre, yielded significant benefits:
- Enhanced Fire Safety: The apartment is now equipped with an efficient fire suppression system, reducing the risk of fire-related damage and injuries to occupants.
- Aesthetically Pleasing Integration: Fire Mist’s expertise ensured that the Automist systems were seamlessly integrated into the open plan apartment, preserving the visual appeal.
- Regulatory Compliance: The project achieved full compliance with fire safety regulations, giving the property developer confidence in the safety of their investment.
- Client Empowerment: The property developer’s team was well-prepared to manage and maintain the Automist systems, ensuring long-term effectiveness.
Conclusion:
The collaboration between the property developer and Fire Mist resulted in a successful installation of the Automist fire suppression system, enhancing fire safety in the heart of Leicester. This case study illustrates how specialist installers, Fire Mist Ltd, provide a comprehensive installation package that not only meets safety standards but also integrates seamlessly with the architectural and design goals of the project. The open plan apartment now stands as an excellent example of modern fire safety and aesthetics coexisting harmoniously in urban living spaces.
Where do I find guidance on the fire safety of Open Plan flats and apartments?
Several guidance documents and regulations address fire safety in open plan flats, particularly in the UK. Some of the key ones include:
- Building Regulations – Approved Document B: Fire Safety: This document provides guidance on meeting the fire safety requirements outlined in the Building Regulations. It includes specifications for fire resistance, means of escape, and fire detection and alarm systems applicable to various types of buildings, including open plan flats.
- Fire Safety in Purpose Built Blocks of Flats: This guide, published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG), offers detailed guidance on fire safety measures specific to purpose-built blocks of flats. It covers aspects such as compartmentation, fire detection and alarm systems, means of escape, and fire suppression systems.
- The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: This legislation places responsibilities on building owners, landlords, and employers to ensure the safety of occupants from the risk of fire. It requires the implementation of appropriate fire safety measures, including risk assessments, fire prevention measures, and emergency plans.
- BS 9991:2015 Fire safety in the design, management, and use of residential buildings – Code of practice: This British Standard provides guidance on fire safety measures for residential buildings, including open plan flats. It covers aspects such as fire detection and alarm systems, means of escape, fire-resistant construction, and fire suppression systems.
- BS 9999:2017 Fire safety in the design, management, and use of buildings – Code of practice: Another British Standard, BS 9999, offers comprehensive guidance on fire safety measures applicable to various types of buildings, including residential properties. It includes recommendations for fire risk assessments, fire safety management, and the design of fire protection systems.
These documents and regulations serve as crucial resources for architects, developers, building owners, and regulatory authorities to ensure that open plan flats meet the necessary fire safety standards and regulations.
How does Automist differ from traditional BS9251 sprinkler systems and ceiling mounted misting systems?
The Automist fire suppression system differs from traditional ceiling-mounted fire sprinklers and misting systems in several key ways:
- Targeted Activation: Unlike traditional fire sprinklers that activate due to excessive heat at ceiling level and cover a large space with water when triggered, Automist utilises targeted activation. It deploys a fine water mist directly at the source of the fire, which can help to minimise water damage to surrounding areas and belongings.
- Design Flexibility: Automist systems are designed to be more flexible in their installation compared to traditional sprinkler systems. They can be installed in a variety of locations, including kitchens and open plan areas, without the need for extensive modifications to existing ceilings or structures.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Automist systems typically feature a more discreet design compared to traditional fire sprinklers, which are often visible on the ceiling. Automist units can be integrated into the design of a space seamlessly, helping to maintain aesthetic appeal.
- Water Efficiency: Automist systems use less water compared to traditional sprinkler systems while still effectively suppressing fires. This can result in reduced water damage and may be more environmentally friendly.
- Faster Response Time: Automist systems are designed to have a faster response time compared to traditional sprinklers and ceiling mounted misting systems. The mist is quickly deployed upon detection of a fire, helping to suppress the flames and mitigate the spread of fire and smoke more rapidly.
- Installation Ease: Installing Automist systems is often simpler and less invasive compared to traditional sprinkler systems. They can be retrofitted into existing buildings easily by the trained specialists at Fire Mist, making them a practical choice for renovations or alterations.
Overall, the Automist fire suppression system offers a modern, targeted approach to fire protection that can be particularly well-suited for open plan spaces and areas where traditional sprinkler systems may not be practical or aesthetically desirable.
Contact us on 0116 3400516 to discuss your project requirements or for no obligation advice on building control fire suppression requirements.
