Without proper fire protection measures in place, a fire can spread rapidly through a building. Leicester City Council decided to upgrade the current fire protection measures they had in place across their residential buildings with one aim in mind; keeping their residents safe.
After winning a successful fire stopping contract, we have been working across various tower blocks within the city to make the buildings compliant under current fire safety legislation. The works included the installation of new fire doors, compartmentalisation in communal areas and loft voids. The project was originally contracted for three years but was extended for a further 2 years due to good performance.
Duration
5 years
Contract Value
£2,500,000
Location
Leicester
Properties involved
430 properties across 80 sites
The Project
We have been working with Leicester City Council for several years to provide them with fire containment and passive fire protection works across their portfolio of 430 properties.
With sites spread across the city, the project included the replacement and upgrade of fire doors and compartmentation in communal areas and loft voids.
Alongside remaining respectful whilst we conducted services within the buildings, we worked closely with the local housing officer to arrange appointments with residents that were at a convenient time. Their involvement made sure that these appointments were kept to the arranged time and ensured a smooth and quick delivery of the project.
Our Solution
We worked closely alongside our suppliers to source certifiable materials for fire stopping and precaution.
Following the recent national push for the re-testing of fire products at the manufacturers, stock also became limited so it was important that we negotiated with our supply chains to make sure we could access the correct amount of product within the allocated time scale.
As part of the programme, we completed works within confined areas including the loft voids. We provided additional equipment including portable lighting to make sure they could carry out the work safely and efficiently.
The majority of the buildings were built prior to the 1980s and as such, some contained asbestos related challenges. We worked closely with Leicester City Council’s Asbestos Team to ensure a safe working environment throughout and all our operatives were given awareness training as standard.
The Result
During the project, we utilised 10 of our locally employed operatives and worked with approved specialist contractors that assisted with delivering a successful contract.
The properties are now much safer with the new doors and can withstand the spread of fire for longer.
Following completion of works, the Clerk of Works stated: “I found the fitters to be professional, approachable and a credit to your company. Their work is of a good standard. On the whole I am very pleased with the works carried out”.
