Modern warehousing presents a unique fire safety challenge. Large open-plan spaces, high-value stock, continuous vehicle movements and pressure to maintain uptime all demand fire detection systems that are robust, flexible and easy to manage. A recent logistics fire safety installation for IRIS 2002 SRL, a European specialist fashion logistics provider, demonstrates how an addressable approach can support safe, uninterrupted warehouse operations — lessons that are highly relevant to UK facilities.
The site comprised multiple large warehouse floors supporting high-volume garment storage and distribution, including specialist areas such as hanging garment systems, overhead trolleys and loading platforms. While the operation is based in Italy, these conditions closely mirror those found in many UK and European logistics facilities, where open layouts, tall storage and evolving racking or conveyor systems can complicate both detection coverage and evacuation signalling.
One of the key challenges was providing clear, compliant audible and visual warning across expansive, column-free warehouse zones, where traditional wall-mounted visual alarm devices are not always practical. This was addressed using combined base sounder beacons installed directly beneath intelligent detectors, ensuring warnings are delivered exactly where they are needed without impacting operational layouts or material flows.
The use of addressable fire detection across mixed warehouse zones also supports day-to-day operational resilience. Features such as automatic drift compensation and variable sensitivity help reduce unwanted alarms, a critical consideration in busy logistics environments where dust, vehicle emissions and temperature fluctuations are common.
Control and visibility are equally important for facilities managers overseeing large sites. Networked fire control panels allow multiple warehouse areas to be monitored from a single point, while remote access enables health and safety teams to check system status at any time. This supports faster decision-making, proactive maintenance and ongoing compliance.
As the installer noted, “The flexibility of Hochiki’s system made the design and installation process easy,” while fast configuration and an intuitive interface reduced commissioning time and simplified day-to-day operation for site teams.
For UK warehouse and operations managers balancing compliance, productivity and business continuity, this project highlights how intelligent, addressable fire detection can be engineered around real-world logistics demands — protecting people, stock and uptime in challenging, high-throughput environments.
To learn more about Hochiki’s ESP intelligent fire detection and alarm products and how they work seamlessly with the Latitude fire control panel to protect your entire building, visit the Hochiki Europe website.
