Securetech Systems NE Ltd faced a significant challenge in ensuring the safety and security of a fully occupied residential building. The presence of residents during the project added complexity, as did the building’s cladding in specific areas of the outer facade, necessitating additional strategic fire detection measures in these sensitive zones.
RayFire Services was engaged by Securetech as a specialist fire alarm team to tackle this complex project. We designed and implemented a hybrid fire alarm system featuring multiple wired network control panels, translators, and over 700 wireless devices. This innovative approach allowed for each device to be preprogrammed and swiftly installed within residents’ private dwellings, ensuring minimal disruption to their daily lives.
The building now benefits from comprehensive L1 fire coverage in all communal areas, along with an early warning system and specialist detection within each private flat and apartment. This includes heightened protection in areas with cladding, ensuring the earliest possible warning in the event of a fire. As a result, the overall safety and risk management of the premises have significantly improved.
Colin Wrightson, Director at Securetech Systems NE Ltd, praised the collaboration with RayFire Services:
“We had a clear brief to deliver this project as rapidly as possible, with minimal intrusion and inconvenience, so Hyfire wireless devices were the obvious choice. The design, planning, and installation were completed ahead of schedule by RayFire, the system is working as specified, and the residents are very happy with the outcome. You can’t really ask for more.”
The project at Curzon Place, a notable site in the Gateshead Quays development, was the first complete overhaul of the building’s fire system since its construction in the early 2000s. The new system, installed by RayFire Services, brings the building in line with the latest UK fire regulations and best practices.
Ray Hope, Managing Director at RayFire Services, reflected on the project:
“This was the largest, smoothest install we have carried out to date, largely thanks to the simplicity of setting up and installing the Hyfire Taurus wireless devices, which made the whole process from survey through to commissioning completely seamless. For an apartment complex with residents in situ, you really couldn’t ask for more.”
The collaboration with the Hyfire team allowed RayFire Services to specify a full communal Level 1 system, incorporating heat detection and sounders within each apartment lobby, as well as additional heat detection in sensitive areas. This approach reduced wiring by up to 90%, significantly cutting down the installation schedule and minimising disruption for residents. This project highlighted the importance of innovative, flexible solutions in managing complex fire safety challenges.
