Fire responsibility is important in all homes, but even more so in care homes populated by vulnerable people. The increased amount of cognitive impairments and complex medical needs of residents means that building owners must provide the highest standards of safety in care homes. The best way to do that is with a well-designed, compliant fire suppression system for care homes.
At Armstrong Priestley, we design and install specialist fire suppression systems for care homes that help save lives, minimise property damage and support compliance with current fire safety regulations.
Click here or call 0113 394 4040 for more information about our range of fire suppression systems, and learn about regulatory compliance from our engineers who have been involved with fire safety for over 40 years!
Why Fire Suppression Is Essential in Care Homes
The spread of fire is a major issue in all residential buildings, but especially so where vulnerable occupants require assistance to evacuate.
A professionally designed fire suppression system can control fire growth during the early stages, giving residents, care home staff and the rescue service valuable extra time to respond safely. All of which will make the difference when combined with portable firefighting equipment and effective evacuation procedures.
Understanding the Risks
Every care facility presents different fire risks, which is why a comprehensive fire risk assessment should always be carried out before installation. These risks help us understand the main challenges facing your premises, and how to tackle them.
Potential fire hazards include:
- Electrical equipment
- Kitchens and laundry rooms
- Heating systems
- Bedrooms
- Communal areas
- Storage rooms
When you consider that many residents in care facilities may have Alzheimer’s, Down syndrome, or other cognitive impairments, they may be unable to react quickly to an emergency, increasing the importance of early intervention.
Choosing the Right Fire Suppression System
At Armstrong Priestley, we design and install several fire suppression systems available, depending on the size, layout and specific requirements of the building.
Here’s a look at some of our best options.
Sprinkler systems
The most common fire suppression system in the UK is the fire sprinkler system. Ideal in most residential buildings as it comes into effect automatically, preventing flames from taking over your premises.
Gas suppression systems
Gas suppression systems release inert gases, such as IG55 or IG541, carbon dioxide, or chemical gases that do not leave a residue. This system design is perfect for rooms where there is a lot of sensitive data, such as the main office, security room, or other such areas.
Water Mist Systems
Water mist systems create a cooling effect by releasing small droplets of water at high speeds. This system targets hot fumes and tackles the flames without ruining the entire area.
Each system is designed to control or extinguish fire quickly, helping to prevent fire spread while protecting people and property. Plus, with the use of fire extinguishers, an evacuation plan, and fire alarms, you can avoid increased risks and improve the fire safety of your care facility.
Meeting Fire Safety Regulations
Fire safety measures are a must in all care homes to comply with relevant UK fire safety regulations, such as the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order.
To ensure that your system is fully functional, building owners and management teams must:
- Ensure installation by a reputable company
- Schedule routine testing and inspections
- Update documentation
- Book regular servicing
By partnering with Armstrong Priestley, you can ensure that your fire suppression system is fully operational. Your staff, visitors, and vulnerable residents will be thankful.
Benefits of Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are life-savers in the event of a fire thanks to the numerous benefits they bring. These benefits include:
- Helps protect vulnerable residents and save lives
- Reduces the spread of fire and smoke
- Allows staff to evacuate residents
- Supports compliance with fire safety regulations
- Protects confidential documents from turning to ash
These systems provide reassurance that your building is prepared should an emergency occur. Which, in the case of a fire, could make all the difference when you are trying to evacuate residents with mobility issues.
Why Choose Armstrong Priestley?
The reason why you, like many of our clients in the past and present, choose us is because at Armstrong Priestley, we take fire safety measures very seriously. In the last 40 years, we have used all our experience to deliver fire protection solutions across the care sector.
We understand the unique challenges of safeguarding residents while meeting strict legal requirements. That’s why we provide an initial fire risk assessment, installation, and ongoing support.
Contact us today by clicking here or calling 0113 394 4040 for more information regarding our services.
Where are we located?
Leeds Head Office
Seventy Seven
Holbeck Lane
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS11 9UL
Call 0113 394 4040
email info@armstrongpriestley.co.uk
The North East Office
One Trinity Green
Eldon Street
South Shields
NE33 1SA
Tel 0191 206 9085
Email northeast@armstrongpriestley.co.uk
The North West Office
Suite 7
Wilsons Park
Monsall Rd
Greater Manchester M40 8WN
Tel 0113 394 4040
Email manchester@armstrongpriestley.com
The South East Office
Unit 9, Church Farm
Ulcombe
Maidstone
Kent
ME17 1DN
Tel 0203 4345570