What does it take to keep people safe without slowing life down?
Elect Building and Maintenance delivered the design, installation and commissioning of a new L2 fire alarm system at Dale Barracks in Chester for Vivo.
The project involved installing a new fire alarm system across the premises, alongside associated fire stopping works and full painting and decorating. The wider aim was not only to improve fire safety, but to make sure the building was properly prepared for the soldiers moving in.
CASE STUDY REF: Fire017
Client: Vivo
Location: Dale Barracks, Chester
Programme: 4 months
Contract award: July 2024
Contract value: £117,474.81
Team: 4 Fire Alarm Engineers, 1 Fire Stopping Operative, 2 Painters & Decorators, 1 Project Manager, 1 Fire Designer
Sector: Defence / Army barracksThe challenge
The project was originally planned around a vacant premises, giving the team clear access to rooms and working areas across the site.
That changed quickly.
Within the first few weeks, soldiers were required to move into the building. As the programme continued, the premises became fully occupied. This meant our team had to work around live accommodation, sleeping soldiers and changing shift patterns.
Access could no longer be taken for granted. Every day needed careful coordination with the Troop Sergeant Major and site project manager to make sure rooms could be entered safely, respectfully and at the right time.
Our approach
We stayed flexible and kept the communication tight.
The team worked closely with site personnel to build a practical programme of works around the reality of the occupied building. Daily liaison helped us understand which rooms were available, when access was possible and how to keep disruption to a minimum.
This is where good delivery matters. Not just the installation itself, but the planning, communication and respect needed to complete works in a live environment.
Across the project, Elect kept the programme moving while adapting to the needs of the people living and working on site.
The outcome
The new L2 fire alarm system was designed, installed and commissioned successfully.
Fire stopping works and full decoration were also completed as part of the wider programme, helping leave the premises safe, compliant and ready for use.
Despite the change from a vacant building to a fully occupied site, the project was delivered on time and within budget, with clear communication helping avoid delays and disruption.
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