Why social landlords should be using Automist®.

Article written by Jan Taranczuk, Strategic Housing Advisor at Plumis and past chair of the Chartered Institute of Housing London Reginal Board.

Full article can be found on LinkedIn.

Many of you will already know, I consider fire safety to be incredibly important and I know social landlords are committed to improving, to ensure they’re getting it right. But, from my experience of working with many social landlords, I’m also familiar with the complexities behind the decision-making processes for these organisations and justifying the implementation of new technologies.

When it comes to fire safety, one size does not simply fit all, and we should install the best solution for the individual and their needs, which is exactly the approach that innovative fire suppression manufacturer Plumis champions – with its Automist® technology.

What is Automist®?

Automist® is a modern alternative to traditional fire sprinklers. The system features ceiling mounted multi sensor detectors, which if activated, trigger the infrared sensors on Automist’s spray heads to scan. If the scan identifies heat signatures or changes that indicate a dangerous or growing fire, the sprayhead best positioned to tackle the fire targets it with a dense fog of watermist.

Plumis recognised the positive impact smoke alarms had on reducing fire fatalities, by providing early detection and warning, so designed a system that is electronically activated, enabling it to operate at the earliest opportunity – up to two minutes earlier than traditional sprinklers. 

You can see Automist® in action here.

Reduced water consumption

Unlike most traditional sprinklers, Automist® connects to the normal domestic water supply, meaning the system is easy to retrofit, with minimal disruption to residents and the fabric of the building. The system’s modular nature, also means it can be installed on a priority need or availability basis to each individual dwelling.

When activated, the system uses 90% less water than most traditional sprinklers, significantly reducing the extent and associated costs of water damage.

Further innovation

Whilst Automist® is leading the way with demonstrating how technology can be utilised to provide greater protection, the team at Plumis are continuing to look for ways to further enhance their solution.

They were recently awarded a smart grant from Innovate UK to develop their fire safety technology to provide added value via environmental monitoring. Potential applications include linking to smart thermostat functionality, identifying issues with damp, as well as raising the alarm if any unusual behavioural changes are detected. Not only will the next generation of this technology be able to increase protection from fire, but it will enable social landlords to look after their residents in other ways.

Many of us know the distinct fire safety challenges facing social landlords. Vulnerable residents in particular have complex needs which can change over time. Practical, targeted adaptations to suit individuals and their homes can have an immediate impact, whilst also bringing peace of mind to residents, their families and housing providers alike.

This is why I hold Automist® in high regard and work with them as a strategic housing advisor. Not only is it a practical solution to combating the known risks impacting vulnerable residents, but it’s also a great example of how innovative technology is being utilised in the housing sector.

I personally welcome Plumis’ commitment to continual improvement and taking the initiative to do things differently in order to achieve the best outcomes for all involved. This is an approach that will surely be celebrated by landlords and residents alike and is in accordance with the recommendations of the Hackitt review.