Listed buildings in the UK are subject to the same fire safety legislation as any other building. However, any changes made to a listed building must also comply with planning regulations set out by the local authority. This means that the fire safety measures chosen MUST minimise damage to the historic fabric of the building. When considering fire safety measures, the local authority will consult with specialists from Historic England to ensure a balance is struck between fire safety and historic preservation.
Wireless fire alarms do not require power to every sounder to operate, therefore there’s a lot less disruption and invasive building work required to bring a listed buildings fire protection up to the required British standards as per the Fire Safety Order of 2005.
Listed buildings present a unique challenge for fire safety. Thankfully, new technologies are emerging to help improve protection while minimizing impact on historical features. Here are some developments to consider:
Advanced fire suppression systems:
Mist fire suppression systems: These use a fine water mist to extinguish fires, causing significantly less water damage compared to traditional sprinklers. This makes them ideal for listed buildings with sensitive materials like wood or plasterwork.
Water mist with inert gases: This combines a water mist with inert gases like argon or nitrogen to extinguish fires by reducing oxygen and cooling the flames. It’s even more water-efficient than pure mist systems.
Smart fire detection systems:
Wireless sensor networks: These use a network of battery-powered sensors to detect smoke, heat, and CO. They’re easy to install without drilling or damaging historical features.
Advanced camera systems: Thermal imaging cameras can detect heat signatures of potential fires even before flames appear. Facial recognition can also be integrated to help with occupant evacuation.
Passive fire protection advancements:
Fire-resistant coatings: These clear or translucent coatings can be applied to historical materials like wood to make them more fire-resistant.
Intumescent coatings: These coatings expand when exposed to heat, creating a fire-resistant barrier that protects underlying materials. They can be formulated in subtle tones to minimize visual impact.
At Your Choice Fire & Security, our certified fire alarm professionals can help you choose the right system
for your unique needs and ensure it’s properly installed and maintained. Contact us today for a free consultation!
