Fire Crest drives professionalism thanks to Taktis panel installation

Installing the panel enables engineers to test configurations in the office prior to then configuring a panel on a given client’s premises, thereby reducing the time needed on site and increasing the likelihood of a ‘right first time’ installation.

The move is part of Fire Crest’s commitment to upskilling its own employees and further improving professionalism within the industry by working with Kentec Electronics, the manufacturer of life-critical control systems, as one of its select partners. It also reflects the need for the company’s engineers to keep pace with the greater networking and configuration potential that panels such as Taktis can now deliver.

As a registered Kentec Installation Partner, Fire Crest has access to a full suite of Taktis training modules and resources. Only Kentec Installation Partners are able to install Taktis panels.

Training and experience

Anthony Kent, fire and security manager at Fire Crest, is a firm believer that training, experience and forward planning are essential for ensuring that fire panels are used to their fullest potential.

Kent informed Fire Safety Matters: “The sites at which we install are typically large and complex in nature. The focus is on schools, hospitals and manufacturing depots. It’s vital that systems are configured expertly.”

He continued: “Configuring the Taktis panels prior to installation enables us to test out ‘cause and effect’-style scenarios and mitigate the potential risk of false alarms on site. The installation adds to our training capabilities and is of considerable benefit to our installers and customers.

Kevin McCarthy, business development manager for Kentec Electronics, feels that Fire Crest’s approach is commendable. “It’s vital that our industry is committed to furthering professionalism and raising standards,” asserted McCarthy. “We recognise that it’s our responsibility to provide detailed and thorough training through our Kentec Installation Partner programme. It’s excellent that Fire Crest has gone another step further with this in-office installation.”

Multiple protocols

Taktis is available in up to 16 loops, providing up to 144 zone indications and supporting more than 2,000 detection devices. It can network up to 127 panels, making it ideal for the largest projects including multi-site retail/supermarkets, critical infrastructure and major commercial and industrial facilities.

Multiple protocols can be supported on each panel to give installers and end users alike maximum choice in their system’s design, while the scalable nature of the product provides “the highest level” of future-proofing and networking possibilities.