As Christmas approaches, you may have noticed a number of decorations being added to your office space. A large Christmas tree covered in lights and baubles in the reception area, mistletoe hanging above the doorway to the staff kitchen, and tinsel a mile long, covering every computer monitor in sight. Although it’s all in the name of fun, its important to be aware of the fire safety hazards that come along with this change in office scenery. This is where our top 5 Christmas fire Safety tips come in handy.
Everyone wants a bargain but when it comes to Christmas lights, getting a good deal could cost you a lot more. Always make sure your lighting decorations are certified with the British Safety Standard sign. If they don’t, your staff may be at risk as there is no guarantee that non certified lighting is safe to use. Spending a few extra pounds on British Safety Standard Christmas lighting can prevent the chance of shocks, sparks and potentially fire.
During the Christmas period there can be a lot of extra electronic seasonal decorations up around the office. This can be; singing mistletoe, Christmas tree lighting and novelty dancing snowmen. Be sure to not overload sockets or extension cables with these types of things as they can often take a lot of electricity to power them, increasing the risk of an electrical fire.
Be sure that during periods when no one is in the office, that all lights and plugs are turned off. This is not only to conserve energy, but to prevent a fire in your absence from the building.
As well as making sure they are working, we also advise to buy spare batteries at Christmas to prevent the temptation to remove them from the smoke alarm, only to be used in a new secret Santa gadget. You may intend on putting them back the same day but is it worth the risk of forgetting?
Around this time of year, work can become unorthodox. With Christmas tree lighting and decorations being draped from door to door, It is essential that any fire escape routes remain clear and unrestricted by decorations or loose packaging. The space around a doorway for your tree or other decorations may be tempting but in the instance that a fire occurs, everyone in the building is put at risk.
Self explanatory, but regardless of how perfect your secret Santa gift was, or how close you are to your hard drive with your work stored on, you need to vacate the building and not return until the fire has settled. We hope that this situation does not occur. In order to preserve your life and other members of staff, do not enter the building under any circumstance.
The kits come in a modern urban backpack and contain one 1.75m 4-section telescopic pole, three 0.5m extension poles and either a Solo or Testifier smoke or heat kit.
As well as space for your essential test equipment, the rucksack also has plenty of room for your other everyday tools and accessories.
The kits are built around a compact, stylish rucksack, making for comfortable, hassle-free movement around the site and whilst travelling. In many cases, the full height of the standard access pole is not required making the 50% shorter access poles more convenient. With an increase in mobile engineers, some even working without vans, the introduction of these compact urban kits has provided engineers with this crucial piece of kit in a manageable size.
Whether moving around a site or across multiple sites, these compact kits allow for less disruption whilst testing and quicker movement between and around sites.
Currently, the Urban Kits come in three different ranges. Take a look at the different options available to you below.
Urban Smoke Test Kit
1 x Urban Backpack (inc. Pole Bag)
1 x Urban 4-section Telescopic Pole 1.75m
3 x Urban Extension Pole 0.5m
1 x Solo 365 Smoke Kit
Urban Smoke / Heat Test Kit
1 x Urban Backpack (inc. Pole Bag)
1 x Urban 4-section Telescopic Pole 1.75m
3 x Urban Extension Pole 0.5m
1 x Testifire 1001-1 Smoke/Heat Kit
Urban Smoke / Heat / CO Test Kit
1 x Urban Backpack (inc. Pole Bag)
1 x Urban 4-section Telescopic Pole 1.75m
3 x Urban Extension Pole 0.5m
1 x Testifire 2001-1 Smoke/Heat/CO Kit
Introducing a new product range of testing equipment to the Eurotech offering. The Solo and Testifire ranges offer modernised technologies that provide increased benefits to fire safety professionals. Find out more about the new range of testing devices below.
The new Solo 365 Smoke Detector Tester combines new technology and improved performance into the hands of the user. Smoke generation uses a proximity sensor, making the device quicker to test, faster to clear, and almost impossible to over apply. It offers everything industry experts require from the popular Solo brand, pairing it with the latest technology and covering it with a modern, slim-line design.
Key Features:
The detector friendly smoke, generated by non-pressurised capsules, is compatible with a wide range of detectors and provides improved performance at lower temperatures. The Solo 365 model in particular is also 15% lighter than the traditional Solo dispenser – supporting more efficient movement around site and when testing, lessening the strain on the user.
For more information about the Solo 365 Smoke Detector Tester, click here.
The Solo 372 ASD Adaptor allows the user to test aspirating detector test points easy, using Solo 365. Setup for this adaptor is quick and easy. The adaptor replaces the clear test cup and uses the ‘Delayed Start Mode’ feature to allow smoke to be directed into an accessible sampling hole along the pipe run. Providing an efficient and reliable test for aspirating detectors.
Key features include:
For more information about the Solo 372 ASD Adaptor, click here.
A compact smoke cartridge for use with Solo 365. This cartridge is non-hazardous and non pressurised – allowing it to be stored and transported easily.
Key features include:
For more information about the Solo ES3 Smoke Cartridge, click here.
The most widely used detector tester in the industry, the Solo 330 works with the Solo A3 smoke detector test aerosol to deliver fast and effective functional testing of smoke detectors.
Key features include:
For more information about the Solo 330 Aerosol Dispenser, click here.
The Solo 332 Aerosol Dispenser is intended and ideal for detectors covering a larger diameter thanks to its increased cup size. The controlled delivery of stimuli means detectors can be tested with minimum mess in a safe way.
Key features include:
For more information about the Solo 332 Aerosol Dispenser (Large), click here.
Approved by fire testing officials all over the world, the Solo smoke aerosols (used with the Solo 330/332 dispensers) replicate the conditions of smoke from a fire by delivering smoke particles to the detector under test.
Key features include:
For more information about the Solo Smoke Aerosols, click here.
Testifires most popular detector tester, the Testifire 1001, allows fast, efficient and reliable testing of smoke and heat detectors. Testing can be carried out as single, simultaneous or sequential tests depending on the type of detector that is being tested.
Key features include:
For more information about the Testifire 1001, click here.
The smoke that Testifire uses to test detectors is generated and delivered via capsules. These capsules offer a number of benefits over traditional aerosol canisters, including their storage and transportation options and lack of waste product allowing for more tests to be conducted per capsule.
Key features include:
For more information about the Testifire TS3 Smoke Capsule, click here.
“I think you’re one of the best, if not the best supplier we’ve ever worked with – all the way around. It’s so refreshing, and a joy for us to be able to work with people as keen to do things right as we are”.
Bill Boyd, Managing Director – Accord Fire & Security Services Ltd.
“Dear Michelle
I wanted to drop you a line to say how pleased we are with the support your staff have given us since we embarked on our expansion into the Fire Alarm business.
Three years on from our initial visit to your offices in April 2010, Steve has skilled himself and is fully trained in alarm installation and maintenance. But that has been supported by the advice and guidance Vincent, particularly, has provided so freely. Not surprisingly, we have met some issues that required us to seek advice; Vincent willingly gave us that and for which we are eternally grateful.
Equally, Fiona has been so helpful whenever we call and I would ask you to pass on our thanks and gratitude to them both and to all those with whom it has been a pleasure to deal.
With renewed thanks.”
Martin Dean, Director – Viscount Fire
“Panache Fire Services are pleased to endorse the entire range of products that Eurotech Fire Systems Ltd supply on a regular basis.
Over the past three years we have developed a strong working relationship with their staff who are happy to assist with design, pricing and supply chain management.
Michelle and her team have consistently provided a professional service. This has enabled us to deliver a complete fire detection system of the highest standard to our customers.
I would not hesitate to recommend Eurotech Fire Systems Ltd to any installing company.”
Nick Williams – Operations Manager Panache Fire Services
“Eurotech were fantastic,” says Louise. “I knew very little about wireless fire detection systems before I spoke to them. Now I’d design them into almost any building – why would you use anything else? Flexibility is everything and we love it when we get good customer service. I really wish there were more companies like Eurotech.”
Louise McDonnell, Director – McDonnell Associates
“We are not fire detection experts, but the Eurotech engineers answered all our questions very clearly and explained why their ‘Dual Optical’ product was the right solution for us.”
Hashi Hussein, Electrical Engineer
Any fire call received by Fire & Rescue Services is attended by fire crew responding under “emergency conditions” thus diverting essential services from genuine emergencies and unnecessarily putting fire crew and the public at risk.
Below are some of the most common causes of false fire alarms and latest products in fire detection to reduce the number of false alarms and call outs.
In the workplace, there are many common causes of false alarms. Here are a few of the most common causes of false fire alarms:
Incorrect type of detector
It’s important that the fire detectors used in each room are appropriate for usage and changed should the rooms purpose change. For example, a room fitted with a smoke detector having a toaster or kettle introduced could increase the number of false alarms from smoke.
Contractors working on site
Contractors working in your home or workplace may increase the amount of dust or electrical disturbances which can affect the fire alarm systems.
Failure to notify the alarm monitoring centre
Sometimes a false fire alarm can be something as simple as failing to let the alarm monitoring centre know when you are testing or running maintenance of your alarm system.
Unsatisfactory maintenance and testing
False alarms can occur when detectors are not regularly cleans and serviced.
Human activity
People are the biggest cause of false fire alarms. Making people aware of their actions and responsibilities with regard to fire alarms and detection systems will help them to minimise the number of false alarms in your building.
How to minimise false fire alarms
There are a number of ways that you can help to minimise the number of false fire alarms and unwanted fire signals. From ensuring your staff are trained in fire safety and best practice to installing properly maintained fire detection systems. Eurotech are pleased to offer specialist range of fire detection, specially designed to tackle this growing problem.
The TITANUS® range of aspiration smoke detectors are less prone to false alarms caused by dust and grime, exhaust gases, moisture and other factors whilst still offering the earliest possible fire alarm signalling. Reliable even in extreme climate conditions, aspiration smoke detection systems do not impose architectural restrictions and allow easy access, which minimises inspection costs and maintenance.
To ensure safety in the interim where buildings are not adequately protected currently, it is detailed in the guidelines that buildings implement ‘interim measures’ which include the following:
‘Provision of a temporary communal fire alarm system, comprising smoke detectors in circulation areas and plant rooms, and fire detectors (possibly heat detectors, rather than smoke detectors) in conjunction with fire alarm sounders in each flat.’ … ‘The system may comprise a wireless system, using radio to link devices.’
The Eurotech Wireless Detection range offers a number of ideal solutions to fully adhere to these guidelines with systems including heat and smoke detectors, sounders and manual call points to name a few. View the full range. Our team of expert Fire Consultants are available for support and advice on which systems are best suited to your requirements and can help implement the necessary measures. Please contact your nearest Sales Manager on the details below.
London & South:
Contact: Vincent Agius or Ollie Murray
Email: enquiries@eurotechfire.com
Telephone: 0203 141 0999
Northern/Midlands:
Contact: Bob Wyatt
Email: bob.wyatt@eurotechfire.com
Mobile: 07495 912742
Scotland:
Contact: Gary Mitchell
Email: gary.mitchell@eurotechfire.com
Mobile: 07780 221071
View the full list of Government guidelines published on the 19th June.
INTEGRA’s all-in-one network enabled voice alarm solution is available with three, five, seven and ten channels of amplification. The unit has 12 audio inputs and internal storage for up to 64 recorded messages. INTEGRA provides a complete voice alarm solution for both medium to large centralised and decentralised PA/VA systems.
Features:
• 2000W max power
• Integrated audio-over-IP networking,
• Powerful audio processing
• Integrated battery charger
• Battery mounting shelf
• Compact wall-mount enclosure
The MPS models of Integra Microphone are powerful and flexible paging microphones which can provide live, store-and-forward, and recorded message broadcast into user selected zones. The microphone also provides EN54 compliant emergency functions and all EN54 mandatory indicators and controls.
Features:
• EN54 compliant indicators and controls
• Live, store-and-forward, and recorded broadcasts
• Background music input and control
• Wall mount and fist microphone options
• Headset support
• Loudspeaker with pa zone listen-in function
• Voice over IP & analogue
View the full spec and download the product datasheet.
The EMS01, EMS10, EMS20 and EMS50 Emergency Microphone Stations are EN54 compatible emergency microphones, which provide live and pre-recorded message broadcast. The microphones are housed in a lockable wall-mounting box and feature a graphic LCD display together with indicators for ‘Power’, ‘Voice Alarm’, ‘System Fault’, ‘Fault’ and ‘Speak Now’. The LCD display provides remote access to the list of active faults in the PA/VA system, while the EN54 mandated control keys enable navigation through the fault list, and also provide remote fault acceptance and clearance.
Features:
• En54 compliant indicators and controls
• Fully monitored
• Hardware bypass fallback operation
• Dual redundant outputs for a & b routers
• Additional voice over IP interface, with POE RJ45
View the full spec and download the product datasheet.
The industry’s first certified fully touch fire panel with easy use interface and custom light options.
This Fire Alarm Panel manages a number of protocols including Eurotech, Odyssey, XP95, Discovery and Core Protocol and can connect up to 128 panels on a network loop.
View the full spec of the Teledata One Intelligent Fire Alarm Control Panel.
Our most popular range of control panels benefit from unique specifications to suit different needs and requirements for our customers.
Talk to our expert Fire Consultants today about finding the right panel to suit your exact requirements.
The Evotech range can be configured to suit all types of system, from the most simple, to the highly complex. Its fully integrated and secure network provides an intelligent interface for building control.
The Evotech AS Lite models benefit from a large graphic display and ergonomic button and indicator layout. It is simple and straight-forward to understand for installers, commissioning engineers and end users alike.
The Odyssey range of Fire Alarm Panels come packed with features designed to make them versatile,
easy to install, easy to operate and easy to commission.
Powerful and flexible programming can be achieved with these panels with models specifically designed to suit different sized fire detection systems.
Manufactured and tested to fully meet the requirements of EN54 part 2 and part 4, the Pulsor range has been designed with ease of use in mind, using pre-programmed values for its programming options.
To assist with our additional work load, we would like to welcome our new Customer Service Co-ordinator, Lynn Jeffery who will be starting with us on 1st April 2017. Please note, the offices listed below can cater to meetings by appointment only so please get in touch to arrange.
Eurotech Fire Systems Limited
Suite 1
4 Queen Street
Edinburgh
EH2 1JE
Scotland
Contact: Gary Mitchell
Email: gary.mitchell@eurotechfire.com
Mobile: 07780 221071
Eurotech Fire Systems Limited
Enlightened House
60 Feather
Horsforth
West Yorkshire
LS18 4NW
Contact: Bob Wyatt
Email: bob.wyatt@eurotechfire.com
Mobile: 07495 912742
Eurotech Fire Systems Limited
Kemp House
152 City Road
London
EC1V 2NX
Contact: Vincent Agius or Ollie Murray
Email: enquiries@eurotechfire.com
Telephone: 0203 141 0999
Popular because of it’s aesthetically pleasing low profile, this detector is fully compatible with all fire control equipment utilising Eurotech’s fully digital communication protocol. The EURV-H-A1RI Intelligent Heat Detector is a point detection device that continuously samples for temperature variation in the protected area to provide the earliest warning of a fire condition in areas where traditional smoke detection products are not suitable.
Ideal for environments that are dirty or smoky such as warehouses, loading bays and car parks, the Odyssey Heat Detector monitors temperature by using a single thermistor, which provides a count output proportional to the external air temperature. This device is also unaffected by wind or atmospheric pressure.
Find out more and download the full product data sheet.
Another aesthetically pleasing, low profile design, when used in conjunction with an associated intelligent detector the sounder can be controlled via the cause and effect programming of a compatible control panel utilising the Eurotech digital protocol. With easy access for loop cabling and independent adjustment of the sounder volume and tone settings, this unit is a popular choice.
The Teledata One Fire Alarm Panel is one of the slickest panels on the market. Combined with innovative features and functionality, we’re pleased to be the exclusive supplier of this model in the UK. With a clean and minimal design aesthetic, the Teledata One panel is ideal for Architects and Prestigious Homes looking for a new solution to managing their Fire Detection System needs.
Discover more in our spotlight blog post.
This popular fire panel is available in four variables to suit different requirements and includes features such as; TouchControl touchscreen with active maps, remote display terminal, remote control terminal with additional mute, silence, reset and resound keys and much more.
With its large graphic display and ergonomic button and indicator layout, the Evotech AS Lite control panel is simple and straight forward to understand for installers, commissioning engineers and end users alike. Available with one or two detection loops capable of hosting up to 240 Eurotech devices. Evotech AS Lite uses leading edge microprocessor based electronics to provide a flexible control system with high reliability and integrity.
Find out more and download the full product data sheet.