In this blog post we look at fire security and fire alarm systems for large residential buildings. We compare fire alarm systems to the Waking Watch system which is a system introduced after the Grenfell tragedy. You will also find details of some funding for business owners to help cover the costs of fire alarm systems in your large residential building. We share the benefits of fire alarm systems in large residential buildings too.
What Is The Waking Watch System?
This was a system introduced by the National Fire Chiefs Council (also known as a NFCC). It was to be used as a temporary measure to keep residents safe in the wake of the Grenfell tragedy. Waking Watch is a system where trained fire wardens are always present in the large residential buildings. They monitor the interior and exterior of the building, raise the alarm if there is an emergency and help with the safe evacuation of those in the building.
Waking Watch System vs Fire Alarm System
While it is possible to set up a waking watch system very quickly, it may not be the most cost-effective solution. The average time it takes to complete remedial work to rectify cladding issues can mean that the costs of the waking watch system can quickly add up. A study by The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government looked at the cost of employing people to cover Waking Watch duties. These costs were shown to far outweigh the costs of installing and maintaining a fire alarm system that does not rely on humans or risks human error.
The NFCC have stated that if cladding removal is expected to take longer than 12 months, they strongly recommend a fire alarm system over a waking watch system.
The Benefits Of Fire Alarm Systems In Large Residential Buildings
- The NFCC reports that when a fire alarm system is designed, installed and maintained correctly, it is far more reliable and cost effective as a way of maintaining a sufficient level of early fire detection.
- A fire detection and fire alarm system are ready and working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It offers continuous cover for a whole building. The fire alarm system monitors the building every second and alerts all residents as early as possible.
- Fire alarm systems can be installed quickly with minimal disruption to those in the building. Minimal damage is also caused to existing structures when the fire alarm and fire detection systems are installed.
Funding For Building Owners
There is a help to pay fund available through the Government to help pay for the installation of fire alarms in high-rise buildings with dangerous cladding. It is known as the Waking Watch Relief Fund and the Building Safety FUN, also known as the BSF.
If you need fire alarm systems and fire alarm detection systems installed in your high-rise building, please contact our team.
