Apollo
Fire Detectors’ innovative SOTERIA® range
of detectors has been chosen to protect the prestigious Darrick Wood School in
Orpington, Kent.
The
school is rated by Ofsted as ‘outstanding’ and achieved the ‘World Class
Schools Quality Mark in’ 2015.
The fire
detection system was upgraded as part of a wider programme of works which saw
the school invest in a new dining hall, a Movement & Performing Arts
Building with specialist Drama and Music rooms and new PE changing rooms.
Many of these new buildings encompass large open areas with high ceilings and
interconnected spaces, which presented a challenge for the project’s fire
detection system designer, Triple Star Fire & Security Ltd.
The project
Built in
1975, Darrick Wood School has been extended over the years and the existing
fire detection system was in need of an upgrade. The installation of a brand
new system to protect the pupils, staff and visitors using the most recently
added school buildings provided an opportunity to upgrade some parts of the
existing system. The existing and new fire systems will be fully integrated to
ensure compatibility across the school.
To avoid
any disruption to pupils and staff during term time, all installation and
upgrade work on the systems took place during the school holidays.
The Installation
The main
building contractor, Ammcass Group, appointed local experts Triple Star Fire
& Security Ltd to design and install the state-of-the-art fire detection
system, which is based on Apollo’s award-winning SOTERIA® range of detectors.
Explaining
the choices made at Darrick Wood School, Daren Pool, Managing Director of
Triple Star, said: “SOTERIA was the ideal product for this large school. With
this advanced technology available, we were able to offer superior reliability
of detection and reduction of false alarms – exactly the features required in
this environment.”
Up to
100 Apollo SOTERIA devices, including manual call points and interfaces, were
fitted at Darrick Wood, along with bells and strobes designed for the school
environment. The system is managed by two Advanced MX5 control panels – one
located in the main reception area and the other in the sports centre
reception. The system is programmed to operate a ‘one out, all out’ procedure
in the event of a fire being detected.
The Final Verdict
Graham
Field, Premises Manager at Darrick Wood School, commented: “The installation of
the new fire protection system went smoothly during the holidays, so that we
could proudly open the new buildings and provide the pupils with enhanced
facilities. It was reassuring to have the latest SOTERIA technology installed.
We’re very happy with the modern aesthetics of the devices and are confident
that the school’s fire protection is future-proofed for the years ahead.”
For further information visit www.apollo-fire.co.uk.
