How Fire Sprinkler Systems Can Reduce Fire Patrols in London
Since the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, fire safety procedures have been reviewed and modified, so that history will not repeat itself. Fire prevention considerations, such as fire sprinkler systems, should be examined in every new and existing building; especially around the city capital which is populated with high-rise apartment complexes.
Back in 2020, the government announced a £30m fund for the installation of fire alarms in buildings to remove the need for patrols. However, this still has not fully come into effect and these “waking watches” are still required for tenants to feel safe in their homes.
24-Hour Fire Patrols
At the beginning of 2022, 1,149 buildings in London still have fire safety issues that still rely on 24-hour patrols, due to unsafe building materials. These “waking watches” cost around £137 per dwelling a month; paid by its residents. As the Grenfell Tower inquiry still goes on, it is important to find solutions so that residents do not have to worry about a fire breaking out. There should be procedures in place, such as sprinkler protection systems and clear evacuation routes, meaning patrols could be cut and money saved.
The Fire Safety Act was passed in 2021, however, the new regulations do not have to be implemented until 2023. So, although fire doors will prevent fires from spreading and allow safe evacuation for all tenants, most apartment complexes still haven’t begun construction to make these amendments. In these cases, alternative procedures should be considered.
The Benefits of Fire Sprinkler Systems
Fire sprinkler systems are a great and efficient way to prevent fires from spreading throughout a building. This is ideal for high-rise complexes, which have flats directly above and below each other. Fire sprinkler systems will have individual sprinkler heads that will automatically go off to deal with the blaze. Having these in every flat or apartment means that the flame does not have to spread. From 2023, fire doors will be mandatory in any build that has more than three floors and should be placed in all communal and habitable rooms above 4.5m above ground level.
In addition, reliable fire sprinklers have been known to save lives and are seen as the single most effective method for fighting the spread of fires. Fire sprinkler systems reduce the amount of damage, by only releasing the right amount of water to deal with ablaze. Rather than the gallons of water that would be used by a fire engine.
Unlike fire alarms, sprinklers need little maintenance and cat fit into any building with ease. Fire sprinkler system installation companies will more than likely conduct an annual check to make sure everything is running smoothly. Fire alarms, though also have saved lives, also easily go off; especially when located near a kitchen. Fire sprinkler systems, however, only go off when the overall temperature is over 56°C. Means you can cook your fry-up and not have to worry about the sprinkler head going off.
RAD Fire Sprinklers
Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we offer a range of services to design and install reliable fire sprinklers in commercial and domestic buildings. Our portfolio includes high-rise apartment buildings in London. One key example is the Arena Tower in Canary Wharf, for which RAD installed 2096 sprinkler heads over 44 floors and 375 flats. These residential sprinkler systems mean that a water system feeds into each individual flat and in the case of an emergency, the fire will not spread.
For more information on our services, or to receive a quote, fill in our online form here. One of our specialists will shortly be in touch to see how we can help you.
