ORBIT'S WATERMIST FIRE SAFETY PROJECT MAKES NATIONAL SHORTLIST
MARCH 8th, 2022
Plumis has been named a finalist in the Fire and Security Matters Awards for its fire safety work with leading housing provider, Orbit.
Last year, Orbit identified that 17 flats at one of its independent living schemes in Kent required additional fire suppression to comply with the building’s latest fire safety strategy.
With many of the residents’ belongings being sentimental in value and therefore priceless, there were concerns about installing traditional sprinklers because of the consequential water damage caused in the event of an activation.
Orbit selected watermist as its fire suppression of choice because of its ability to mitigate subsequent damage, without compromising the safety of its residents.
Ahead of the installation, Orbit carried out several engagement exercises – including a session for residents with Plumis’ demo van – to ensure all its residents understood exactly why the system had been chosen, how it worked and how it would look once installed.
Following the installation, a resident feedback survey found that 91% rated the installers who worked in their property as great or excellent, with nearly two thirds saying the installation process was less disruptive than expected.
“Fire safety is high on the agenda for all housing associations,” added Kelly Lee, Building Safety Leader at Orbit. “At Orbit, we’re committed to adopting the most effective technologies and practices to ensure our residents have adequate protection and feel safe in their homes.
“We’re extremely pleased that this project has been recognised by the Fire and Security Matters Award judges and we look forward to working with Plumis’ team on other fire safety projects in the future.”
The announcement comes just months after the fire suppression specialist’s recent success with Swindon Borough Council.
Plumis was awarded ‘Active/Passive Fire Project of the Year’ category at the Security & Fire Excellence Awards, in November, following its project to increase fire protection for two of the Council’s vulnerable residents.
Prior to carrying out the works at Hayley House, Plumis’ approved installer Firemist had successfully completed a pilot installation for Orbit at a basement flat in Leamington Spa following the recommendations of a person-centred fire risk assessment.
Yusuf Muhammad, Co-founder and Chief Design Officer at Plumis, said: “It’s great to be named a finalist in these national awards and I’m really pleased that the hard work of our team has been recognised. Congratulations to all involved and I look forward to celebrating with everyone next month!”
The winners of the 2022 Fire and Security Matters Awards will be announced at a ceremony on the 28 April at the Coventry Building Society Arena.