During the construction of the site’s 12-storey, 693-bed student accommodation phase – which recently topped out – Bowmer + Kirkland, principal contractor, has been working with wireless solution specialist Ramtech to implement its combined WES3 and REACT system to provide a comprehensive fire safety solution on site.
Will Tasker, project manager for Conygar at The Island Quarter, said: “Work is well underway on the new student blocks and we’re in a great position to achieve our goals and use pioneering techniques along the way. The student accommodation marks a significant milestone in the progress of the development as we look ahead to the later phases of the 36-acre site. Every piece of technology used on site ensures a safe and successful environment to work, which we know our project partners like Bowmer + Kirkland source from the very best suppliers.”
The student accommodation is made up of three tower blocks. At times, it’s a busy and noisy construction environment with people spread out over the site. This means that traditional fire alarms, airhorns or other signaling measures would likely have limited success in the event of an emergency. Therefore, B+K required a modern solution fit for the scale of the project.
To provide site personnel with a comprehensive fire safety system, The Island Quarter worked with B+K and Ramtech to get the best from a combined WES3 and REACT solution.
What did this look like? For each of the three tower blocks, there is a WES Connect control panel installed. This is situated within the welfare zone and is the key to a connected solution. The control panels are capturing data and updates from 98 Call Points installed across the site, making sure that in the event of an alarm activation, all assigned personnel will receive real-time alerts through the REACT app and via text message.
Ian Haigh, general manager at Bowmer + Kirkland’s Site Services division, said: “The integrated Ramtech system is ensuring effective fire safety measures are in place throughout the project and for the entirety of our time on site. It provides reliable, wireless fire alarm capabilities through the WES3 system, and instant communication of alarm activations through the REACT emergency notification system.”
Rhea Andrews, regional sales manager Ramtech, said: “It’s a privilege to be involved in the Island Quarter regeneration project, a £1.4 billion development that will change the face of Nottingham and add significant value to the area. With our global headquarters located less than two miles away, it’s a scheme we’re all watching the progress on and will be proud to say we had a role in making it possible once complete.”