Morgan Sindall
Sector
Student Accommodation
Location
Derby
Timescale
July 2022
Services Provided
Fire Compartmentation Survey & Fire Stopping Installation
Service Overview
The University of Darley hired Morgan Sindall to carry out a large refurbishment project to improve fire safety in their student accommodation buildings. To ensure that fire safety was enhanced, Morgan Sindall engaged Element, a supplier with expertise in compartmentation, to assess potential fire safety risks and address breaches within the structures.
The main objective of the project was to identify any breaches in compartmentation across the University of Darley’s student accommodation buildings. Compartmentation involves dividing a building into fire-resistant compartments to contain the spread of fire, giving occupants time to evacuate safely. Element was tasked with conducting a thorough inspection, evaluating the effectiveness of existing fire containment measures, and identifying all potential fire safety risks.
Element approached the project with great attention to detail, starting with a comprehensive assessment of compartmentation integrity in each accommodation building. A team of experienced fire safety experts used cutting-edge technology and industry best practices to identify any breaches or vulnerabilities. The investigation included walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and other building components that contribute to the fire compartmentalization strategy.
When potential breaches and fire safety risks were identified, Element worked closely with Morgan Sindall and the University of Darley to develop and implement tailored remediation plans. Element’s expertise allowed for the use of innovative fire-resistant materials and technologies to restore the integrity of compartmentation barriers. Each remediation step was executed meticulously to adhere to the highest safety standards and local regulatory requirements.
Thanks to Element’s diligent efforts and expertise, the University of Darley’s student accommodation buildings underwent a significant transformation in their fire safety measures. Compartmentation breaches were effectively remedied, bolstering the buildings’ capacity to contain fire incidents and protect occupants. Element’s thorough approach ensured that no stone was left unturned in the pursuit of a safer living environment for the university’s students.
Project Particulars
- Fire Compartmentation Survey
- Fire Stopping Installation
Challenges Faced
During the project, we faced several challenges that required us to coordinate and communicate closely with all stakeholders involved. The student accommodation facilities were dynamic and active, which posed a significant obstacle. We had to ensure that the works did not disrupt the daily lives of students and that their safety was maintained. This required us to maintain consistent communication with the contractors, coordinate the timing of the works during periods of reduced activity, and ensure clear access to the areas under refurbishment. We had to be flexible and adaptable as we navigated through the changing schedules and demands of the student community. Despite these challenges, our team was dedicated to upholding the highest standards of fire safety. Through collaborative efforts with the University of Darley, Morgan Sindall, and all relevant parties, we successfully overcame these obstacles and achieved a comprehensive fire safety enhancement across the student accommodation buildings.
