Project Overview:
Widdecombe in the Moor Primary School, set in the scenic Dartmoor region, now benefits from a modern fire alarm system. TARC Solutions, a Plymouth-based mechanical and electrical firm, contacted us at Start with Smart to collaborate on the installation at Widdecombe in the moor. We were asked to design, install, and commission a state-of-the-art fire alarm system to meet safety standards.
Client Background:
Widdecombe in the Moor Primary School is a charming, small school in the remote Dartmoor area. It serves a small number of students and is the leading educational hub for local children. Due to its isolation and small enrolment, ensuring the safety of everyone at the school was vital.
Project Scope and Objectives:
The key aim was to replace the outdated fire alarm system with a compliant, modern solution. The project included:
Design and Installation:
The new system covers all critical areas of the school, including classrooms and common spaces.
Installation Details:
- 50 to 60 smoke detectors were installed.
- 10 to 15 manual call points were placed throughout the building.
- 800 metres of cable was laid, adhering to strict safety regulations.
Aesthetic Considerations:
Given the school’s historical and aesthetic significance, care was taken to keep the system unobtrusive. Conduit was used to conceal cables, preserving the school’s visual appeal.
Project Timeline:
The team completed the installation within a tight five-week window during the summer break, avoiding any disruption to the school term.
Testing and Commissioning:
The team used specialised equipment from No Climb to test the smoke detectors, ensuring every device worked perfectly before commissioning the system.
Challenges and Solutions:
Tight Schedule:
Completing the project during the summer holidays required careful planning and swift execution.
Surface Conduit Installation:
The existing structure necessitated using surface conduit, which could have caused a messy installation. However, the team maintained a tidy workspace, resulting in a professional and aesthetically pleasing installation.
Partnerships and Collaboration:
Olympia Electrical, as the installation subcontractor, played a crucial role in managing the extensive cabling and meeting all standards. Their professionalism and attention to detail were key to the project’s success.
Outcome and Impact:
The project successfully delivered a fully operational, compliant fire alarm system that significantly enhances safety at Widdecombe in the Moor Primary School. The quality of the installation has added a valuable project to the portfolios of the fire safety company and their partners. This project has also strengthened relationships with TARC Solutions and Olympia Electrical, paving the way for future collaborations.
Future Goals:
For the fire safety company, this project marks a major milestone in its growth. They plan to leverage this success to build their reputation and expand partnerships with firms like TARC Solutions. Looking ahead, their focus will remain on delivering high-quality, safety-focused projects.
In summary the installation of the fire alarm system at Widdecombe in the Moor Primary School underscores the importance of careful planning, collaboration, and attention to detail. The project not only secured the safety of students and staff but also demonstrated the capabilities and potential of the companies involved.
