EAC Fire & Security was engaged by the managing agent of a block of apartments in Boscombe to take over ongoing maintenance of the building’s emergency lighting, fire alarm system and smoke vent / AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) system. Following the initial service visit, several non-compliance issues and faults were identified that required remedial works and system updates.
This project involved a combination of documentation, hardware replacement and corrective maintenance to bring all systems back to full working order and ensure compliance with industry standards.
Initial Inspection Findings
During our first visit, the following issues were identified:
- No diagrammatic zone plan was present for the fire alarm control panel.
- A log book / service documentation box was not provided on site.
- An emergency light fitting failed to maintain illumination for the full required three-hour duration during testing.
- Broken glass was present in several smoke vent call points on the AOV system.
- The WindowMaster Flexi smoke vent panel had a cracked display board, impairing user feedback and control.
These findings meant that while the systems were installed, they were not in an optimal condition and would have continued to deteriorate without intervention.
Works Completed
EAC Fire & Security returned to site to complete all necessary upgrades and repairs. The following works were carried out:
Fire Alarm Documentation and Compliance
- Supplied and installed a document box adjacent to the fire alarm control panel to house the system log book and test records.
- Provided a completed fire alarm log book for ongoing maintenance recording.
- Fitted a diagrammatic zone plan above the fire alarm panel to clearly document the layout and zone identification for future testing and emergency reference.
Emergency Lighting Maintenance
- Replaced the battery in the emergency light fitting that failed to meet the three-hour test.
- Conducted a full duration discharge test to confirm the unit now meets the required standard and provides reliable backup illumination.
Smoke Vent / AOV System Repairs
- Replaced all broken glass in the smoke vent manual call points to restore safe and compliant manual operation.
- Replaced the cracked display board in the WindowMaster Flexi smoke vent control panel with a new, intact display unit.
- Tested the smoke vent system to confirm correct operation, repositioning and feedback on all channels.
Project Outcome
The maintenance takeover and rectification works delivered the following outcomes for the property:
- Fire alarm system now has full documentation, log book and zone plan, supporting future compliance and maintenance.
- Emergency lighting now meets full duration test requirements with reliable battery backup.
- Smoke vent call points are fully operational, with intact glass and correct manual interface.
- The AOV control panel now functions with a new display board, providing clear status and interaction feedback.
All systems were left in a serviceable condition, with functional improvements and documentation that support ongoing maintenance responsibilities.
Why This Matters
Residential building safety systems require not just installation, but correct servicing, documentation and compliance with fire safety standards. Incomplete documentation and hardware faults can lead to:
- Failed site inspections or compliance audits
- Reduced reliability of emergency systems
- Increased risk during fire incidents
- Deterioration of system performance over time
By completing this maintenance takeover and rectification project, EAC Fire & Security helped safeguard the building’s occupants and provided the managing agent with confidence that critical life safety systems are functioning and documented correctly.
About EAC Fire & Security
EAC Fire & Security provides professional maintenance, servicing and installation of fire alarms, emergency lighting, smoke vent / AOV systems, access control and related life safety services across residential and commercial properties. Our team ensures systems are compliant, tested and reliable, with full documentation and clear reporting for clients.
For site surveys, maintenance takeovers or compliance upgrades, contact EAC Fire & Security for a consultation and quote.
