Modular classrooms supported by Hyfire tech in face of RAAC challenge

A lightweight concrete alternative that was a regular component of UK public buildings from the 1950s to 1990s, RAAC has recently been characterised by potential safety concerns. The suggestion is that many RAAC structures are now beyond their lifespan and pose a risk of sudden collapse.

Such alarming news has resulted in urgent calls for immediate solutions, in turn thrusting modular construction firms into the limelight. Hyfire’s Taurus wireless fire devices facilitate faster installation and commissioning of fire systems in these temporary structures. They also have the potential to be integrated with existing fire systems in other school buildings.

Unexpected crisis

Oli Barker, technical manager at Hyfire installation partner company SPG Fire and Security, remarked: “This is a growing and unexpected crisis, for which modular building suppliers need an immediate and viable solution. Hyfire is an obvious choice. As soon as a thorough bench test procedure was conducted in a mock-up site environment, Taurus was given the green light. To date, these Hyfire systems have been installed in a dozen schools.”

The inherent flexibility and efficiency of Hyfire’s wireless tech have enabled SPG Fire and Security to meet tight installation deadlines, significantly reducing on-site labour time and allowing the temporary school buildings to be erected and commissioned in record time.

Further, the use of wireless solutions has enhanced the aesthetic appeal of these temporary structures, while in parallel minimising the need for extensive cabling.

Clear synergy

Robert Bruce, national key account manager at Hyfire, has highlighted the synergy between the urgent requirement for modular buildings and Hyfire's fire safety systems.

“Our wireless solutions are tailor-made for situations like this,” affirmed Bruce. “The urgent demand for safe and efficient temporary structures is seamlessly addressed by the adaptability and robustness of our Taurus devices, which are perfectly suited to modular building systems.”

The Taurus system features Pathfinder Technology, which allows the devices to communicate over distances of 1 km, point-to-point in open air, and even further where expansion hops are used.

Antenna technology has been optimised to allow communication across different frequencies and environments, which means that Taurus can ‘do the job’ with less equipment and less batteries, in turn saving on costs.

*Further information is available online at www.hyfirewireless.com