Projects

Case Study: Aspirating Fire Detection Installation – Randox Laboratories, Antrim

  • Client: Randox Laboratories
  • Location: Antrim
  • Project Scope: Installation of ATEX-compliant aspirating system
  • Sector: Pharmaceutical
  • Systems Installed: Wagner Aspirating System
  • Project Completion/Duration: April 2024 – 6 months

Project Overview: Randox Laboratories appointed Atlas World to design, supply, and commission an aspirating fire detection system within their live pharmaceutical laboratories.
Due to the nature of the site, all works required strict compliance with ATEX safety requirements, ensuring installation did not interfere with ongoing laboratory processes or compromise operational safety. The project aimed to provide early-warning fire detection in areas where standard systems could not be safely deployed.

System Design & Components

Installation of an ATEX-compliant aspirating fire detection system to provide early-warning protection within sensitive pharmaceutical laboratory environments.

The new system was designed to operate safely in hazardous areas, integrating seamlessly with the laboratory’s safety protocols.

Key elements included:

• Wagner Aspirating System installed in strategic zones to detect smoke and particulate matter at the earliest stage.
• System configured for continuous monitoring, providing rapid alerts without disrupting sensitive laboratory operations.
• Installation executed in accordance with ATEX regulations, maintaining full compliance throughout the site.

Randox Laboratories
Installation of an ATEX-compliant aspirating fire detection system to provide early-warning protection within sensitive pharmaceutical laboratory environments.
System configured for continuous monitoring, providing rapid alerts without disrupting sensitive laboratory operations.

Challenges Faced

• Working within a live pharmaceutical environment with strict hygiene and operational protocols.
• Ensuring ATEX compliance during installation and integration with existing fire alarm systems.
• Tight site restrictions required careful planning to maintain laboratory operations while installing detection infrastructure.

Approach & Coordination

Atlas World implemented an agreed installation plan, coordinating closely with laboratory staff to ensure minimal disruption.
All devices were installed, tested, and commissioned to operate effectively from day one, with full technical documentation provided.

Outcome

The completed installation delivered a fully compliant and effective aspirating fire detection system, providing early-warning protection for sensitive laboratory areas.
Lab staff and management now have enhanced safety assurance, meeting both regulatory and operational requirements without impacting daily processes.

Compliance Focus

All works were carried out in accordance with:

• BS 5839-1:2025 – Fire Detection & Alarm Systems for Non-Domestic Premises

• ATEX Directive – Equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres
Atlas World’s engineers ensured full testing, certification, and documentation, providing long-term compliance and safety assurance for the client.

Atlas World
Fire Alarm
AMR