Control Panel Replaced • Smoke Detectors Renewed • Fire Extinguishers & Blankets Updated • Signage & Stands Installed
St James’ Church in Pokesdown recently asked EAC Fire & Security to carry out a comprehensive upgrade of the existing fire safety systems following an initial site inspection. On our first visit, we identified several issues that needed addressing to ensure the building was safe, compliant, and properly protected:
- The existing fire alarm control panel was missing a key button and unreliable.
- One fire alarm zone was in fault and required repair.
- Several fire extinguishers were out of date, making them unsuitable for use.
To bring the system back to good order and improve overall safety for the church’s congregation and visitors, we completed a full scope of replacement and servicing works.
Works Completed
Fire Alarm System Overhaul
- Control Panel Replacement — Replaced the old control panel with a new, fully functional unit to eliminate faults and ensure reliable operation.
- Double Pole Isolator Installed — A dedicated isolator was fitted to meet good practice for fire alarm electrical isolation and safe servicing.
- Smoke Detector Renewal — Replaced 5 x optical smoke detectors, all of which were over 10 years old. Some had been covered in paint, reducing their effectiveness. New detectors restore full detection sensitivity across the protected areas.
Fire Extinguishers & Fire Blanket Update
- Fire Extinguishers Replaced — Installed 5 x new fire extinguishers to replace expired units, ensuring current certification and usability.
- Fire Blanket Replaced — Fitted 1 x new fire blanket in a suitable location for quick access in the event of a small fire.
- Stand Installation — Installed 4 x single stands so extinguishers are mounted neatly and clearly visible at each station.
Servicing & Signage
- Serviced 7 Fire Units — A full service was carried out on remaining extinguishers and equipment to confirm condition and compliance.
- Signage Installed Throughout — All extinguisher locations were signposted correctly in accordance with safety guidance, improving awareness and access.
Emergency Lighting Test
Whilst on site, we also undertook the annual emergency lighting discharge test, a requirement to confirm that emergency lighting provides illumination in the event of mains failure.
- 2 x emergency lights failed their duration tests.
- We will return in early January to replace the failed units so the emergency lighting system is fully compliant and reliable.
Outcome & Benefits
- The fire alarm system is now fully operational with updated detectors and a new control panel.
- All fire extinguishers and safety equipment are within service life, properly mounted, and correctly signposted.
- The church is better prepared for emergency response, with clearer signage and reliable detection and suppression equipment.
- Scheduling the emergency lighting follow-up ensures the building will have compliant illumination along escape routes if mains power is lost.
St James’ Church now enjoys a safer environment for worship, meetings, and community events — backed by up-to-date fire detection, reliable extinguishers and improved signage.
Need Fire Alarm or Safety Upgrades?
EAC Fire & Security provide complete fire alarm installations, servicing, and fire safety equipment upgrades for churches, schools, commercial properties and residential buildings. From control panel replacements to annual tests and emergency lighting surveys, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a free site survey or quote.
