Apollo Protects Hertfordshire University

Apollo Fire Detectors announces the installation of its Soteria range of detectors at The University of Hertfordshire, a modern education establishment based in Hatfield which is home to over 25,000 staff and students.

The University’s ‘2020 Estates Vision’ is a detailed plan which sets out an ongoing maintenance and improvement schedule for its facilities. As part of the schedule of works, the Vision outlined a replacement of the existing fire alarm system across its College Lane campus. To carry out this programme, Imtech – commissioned to carry out refurbishment works at the campus – chose Lloret Fire & Security to install the fire protection system.

To address the many challenges posed by large educational premises, including multi-purpose spaces and large numbers of transient staff and pupils, Lloret specified the Apollo Soteria detector range, installed in conjunction with the new Intelligent Manual Call Point from Apollo. Talking about the choice, John Griffith, Head of Building Surveying at the University, commented: “We were looking for a technologically advanced fire detection system to protect buildings which are used for a variety of activities, including lecture theatres, offices and creative arts studios.

“I had worked with Apollo products when I managed installations in the past and was confident in the new Soteria range as being very well suited for protecting multi-use buildings like the ones we were refitting.”

The fire detection system upgrade saw over 680 Soteria devices installed across the four buildings, including 500 smoke detectors, 70 heat detectors and 107 call points, with numerous VAD sounder bases and interfaces fitted to supplement them. In total, over 1100 Apollo devices now protect the University.

The new Soteria range from Apollo offers the next generation in fire detection expertise with an unrivalled host of features, ideal for protecting the University, its students and staff. The advanced technology significantly improves the detection of smoke, enhances the reliability of the detection process, and reduces the risk of false alarms. Stringent testing procedures offer peace of mind, with products comprehensively tested to exceed EN54-5 and EN54-7 standards.

Installation of the Soteria range was also simpler due to a new easy-fit base and an isolator located in the head, a feature which was of particular benefit during the refurbishment process. A fast turnaround was needed and, because the buildings remained in use during the day, installers worked 12-hour night shifts to complete the project thus minimising disruption for students and staff. Gary Hutcheson, Operations Manager at Lloret, commented: “Working closely with Apollo, we managed to get the Soteria detectors supplied and installed in record time by working on all four buildings concurrently.”

 “The trust we put in our contractor and their supply chain has paid off,” summarised John Griffith. “The project was completed on time, and we now have a technologically advanced fire detection system that will protect students and staff for many years to come.”