JAN 2012
Helping a charity save over £100K with more sustainable design
The advantages of using a fire engineer are many and varied but a mixed use project in the heart of London recently provided a case in point.
The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys own a 6 storey building which consists of predominantly offices but includes residential, retail at a basement level and a restaurant at ground. Recent renovation work combining two neighbouring buildings to increase lettable floor area created an issue regarding means of escape.
It was being suggested that a pressurisation system was the solution to a number of access issues caused by the modifications. However, Trenton Fire Consultants were then asked to review the project as part of a wider analysis of the fire safety systems.
Using expert analytical techniques and knowledge of human behaviour in fire it was possible to show that not only was the pressurisation system not required but that the increase in lettable area could be retained.
This resulted in a cost saving of in excess of £100,000, money that could go directly back to the charity.
The carbon footprint of the building was also reduced by designing out power hungry mechanical ventilation and replacing it with a natural venting system. Not only was the pressurisation system equipment removed but the reduction in power supply requirement also allowed the fire engineers to rationalise the provision and remove the need for a generator.
In addition the analysis also identified other areas where venting was either over specified or could be removed following a slight redesign of the floor layout. This resulted in smoke venting being removed from the car park and refuse area. The fire alarm was also modified to reduce the potential for false alarms and reduce disturbance, and the power supplies rationalised
The residential section was also fully integrated and the fire safety provisions provided for the offices optimised to ensure they were used to complement the residential systems rather then being two separate provisions.
Adam Taylor, Head of Fire Engineering said “It was very rewarding being able to save a charity so much money by applying our knowledge. We pride ourselves on our excellent communication, both in reporting to the client and discussions with the approving authorities and stake holders, and its value was clearly shown here.
“Our clients are often surprised at how much value engineering we can bring to not only large buildings but also to what may seem to be a fairly straightforward project. Existing and new build projects provide significant opportunities for optimising the fire safety provisions, and the earlier we are involved the more we can do.”
