A complex fire security system upgrade carried out on a live school site in Rochdale has been completed.
One of the UK’s leading mechanical and electrical (M+E) contractors, Ash Integrated Services, delivered the scheme across six weeks, with four of those during term time.
The works at Milnrow Parish Church of England Primary School included new fire alarm and emergency lighting systems as well as replacing five fire doors.
Ash Integrated Services installed fire detection in all rooms, including eight classrooms, the hall, offices, toilets, and the staffroom.
The M+E contractor, which had an average of eight people on site throughout, also overcame an additional challenge keeping the existing fire alarm system running while the new one was installed.
Ash Integrated Services director Antony Grace said: “Projects such as these usually take place during the school holidays, but thanks to constant communication with the headteacher and management team, this technically difficult job has run smoothly.
“We worked around school hours including after-school clubs to minimise disruption, while ensuring everywhere was clear of hazards and mess ready for the children to learn in a safe environment each day.
“One particular hurdle was trying to run the wiring for the new fire alarm system alongside the infrastructure for the existing system. We had to be creative to hide our work and keep all elements out of reach during the day.”
Milnrow Parish Church of England Primary School, which has more than 200 pupils, provides education to 4 to 11-year-olds.
Antony added: “The school’s new state-of-the-art addressable fire alarm system tells you exactly which smoke detector has gone off, saving valuable time looking for the cause.
“We have a strong track record in the education sector, with our team enhanced DBS checked providing extra peace of mind for clients, and it’s pleasing to complete another complex job to a high standard.”
Headteacher Ms Lindsey Kirkham said: “Upgrading our fire protection across the site was a priority to ensure we continued to provide maximum safety for all children and staff.
“Carrying out the project during term time made it slightly more challenging for all involved, but Ash Integrated Services was fantastic in its communication, and overall it’s been a huge success.”
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