Fire alarm case study · Dartford, Kent
Grade A Fire Alarm Installation and Commissioning for a Childcare Property
We installed and commissioned a Grade A fire alarm system at a childcare rental property in Dartford. The project included four emergency lights and certification for the completed works.
- Location: Dartford, Kent
- Property: Childcare rental property
- System: Grade A fire alarm
- Standard: BS 5839-1
Childcare requirements and system design
The property operates as a childcare facility serving young children, including children with physical and learning disabilities. The client required a reliable Grade A fire alarm system suited to the facility's strict fire-safety requirements and the need for a carefully managed evacuation. The project specification called for a central control panel and a system designed to BS 5839-1.
We installed a Fike TwinflexPro² control panel with standby battery backup. The central panel provides the system's control and indication point, including during a loss of mains power.
Evacuation lighting and safe installation
Evacuation planning needed to account for children who may require additional time or assistance to leave the building. We supplied and installed four complementary emergency lights to illuminate the escape routes if normal lighting is unavailable.
We routed fire-resistant FP200 cable inside surface mini-trunking and secured it with fire-rated metal clips at one-metre intervals and at each corner bend. This containment method helps support the cable and limit sag under elevated temperatures.
Where cable routes passed through dividing walls, we sealed the penetrations with intumescent fire-stop filler to help maintain the walls' fire resistance. We also finished the trunking edges neatly against the surrounding decoration for a tidy appearance.
Installation scope
The supplied and installed components and works included:
- Fike TwinflexPro² Grade A fire alarm control panel with standby battery backup
- Manual call point
- Fire-resistant FP200 cable in surface mini-trunking, secured with fire-rated metal clips
- Four emergency lights
- Intumescent fire-stopping at cable penetrations and a neat finish around the trunking
- System testing, commissioning and certification
Commissioning, handover and staff training
We tested and commissioned the installation and provided certification for the completed works. We also trained on-site staff in the agreed monthly functional testing procedure and how to keep the property's fire-safety logbook up to date. This helps staff carry out routine checks and may reduce avoidable contractor call-outs; it does not replace the system's required professional servicing and maintenance.
Written and reviewed by
- Written by:
- Shashi Pal
- Position:
- NICEIC Approved QS
- Qualification:
- JIB Gold Card
- Professional membership:
- Associate Member - IFSM (8946)
Fire safety references
- Fire alarm systemBS 5839-1, using the edition and recommendations applicable to the system and premises.
- Emergency lightingBS 5266-1, where emergency lighting forms part of the installation.
- Fire safety dutiesRegulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, as applicable to the premises and responsible person.
Fire alarm system disclaimer
This case study describes a Grade A fire alarm installation at one childcare property. System category, design, coverage and evacuation arrangements must be determined for each premises by the appropriate fire-risk assessment and competent design process; this project should not be taken as a specification for another building.
Testing, commissioning and handover relate to the completed works described here. They do not replace the responsible person's ongoing fire-safety duties, routine checks or the inspection and servicing required for the system under applicable standards, manufacturer instructions and the premises' fire-risk assessment.
