Radius Housing – Fairholme
Projects
Case Study: Fire Alarm System Upgrade – Social Housing Apartment Complex
Project Overview: Atlas World were appointed to upgrade the existing fire alarm system within a social housing apartment complex as part of a wider refurbishment programme. The previous system had reached the end of its life, with increasing false alarms and maintenance issues impacting residents and building management. The client’s objective was to replace the outdated, closed-protocol system with a modern open-protocol alternative, improving reliability and long-term maintainability.
System Design & Components
The upgraded fire alarm system was designed to provide full detection, alarm coverage, and straightforward integration with the building’s existing infrastructure.
Key elements included:
- Addressable Fire Alarm Control Panel with full network capability.
- Automatic Smoke and Heat Detectors installed in both communal and residential areas.
- Manual Call Points at key escape routes and exits.
- Sounders and Visual Indicators ensuring full alarm coverage throughout the complex.
Challenges Faced
The project presented several challenges common to live social housing environments:
- Maintaining existing life safety coverage throughout the upgrade works.
- Gaining access to occupied flats, requiring close coordination with residents and management.
- Working alongside other trades during the refurbishment phase.
Despite these challenges, all works were carried out with minimal disruption to occupants and no loss of fire protection at any stage.
Approach & Coordination
Atlas World adopted a phased installation strategy, allowing sections of the system to be replaced while keeping the existing network active.
Our engineers coordinated daily with the Housing Association and main contractor to plan flat access and minimise disruption.
The system was fully commissioned, tested, and certified on completion, with the client provided full documentation for ongoing maintenance and compliance.
Outcome
The completed upgrade delivered a modern, reliable, and fully compliant open-protocol fire alarm system.
The new installation provides improved detection accuracy, reduced false alarms, and easier future maintenance, ensuring long-term fire safety and peace of mind for residents and management alike.
Compliance Focus
All works were completed in full accordance with BS 5839-1 (Common Areas) and BS 5839-6 (Domestic Dwellings).
Atlas World ensured compliance with all Building Control and Housing Association requirements, providing the client with full certification and as-fitted documentation on completion.
