PREISTLEY ACADEMY TRUST

We were engaged by Make Consulting to deliver their Fire Compliance & Safeguarding planned works at six schools in Bradford for the Priestley Academy Trust.

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We had to undertake these works during the six week Summer holidays whilst there were no children present due to limited space available for classrooms to relocate and also to minimise the level of disruption due to noise and traffic etc.

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This was a tight task given the size of some of the schools, but teamwork, regular communication and our sourcing of local supply chains where possible ensured that we provided the best possible service for our client.

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The Fire Compliance Elements

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As part of the fire compliance works we had to install new fire alarm and emergency lighting systems, install new fire doors and modify existing doors to meet current regulations as well as fire compartmentation, fire glazing, and fire stopping within void spaces. Fire paint was also carried out in areas where we had to retain the original feature timber cladding. 

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The existing doors to one school within the corridor areas were in a poor state of repair but these could not be replaced with off the shelf doors. Bespoke solid wood fire doors were manufactured to match the existing doors to keep the original look of the building throughout due to its listed status. We engaged with a manufacturer local to our office where we could monitor the progress and check the doors before they were issued to site. By doing this we ensured that we could deliver and install the product without any issues.

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Storage space at one school was very limited and we were asked to design and build a mezzanine floor storage area to the rear of the school within the contract period as a contract change. We engaged with the client to discuss their preferred layout and also helped them relocate their belongings to that area. This new space created safer storage, reducing the risk of impact by fire, creating a cleaner looking space.

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The Safeguarding Elements

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As part of the safeguarding works we had to install new CCTV systems that delivered HD video quality along with a smart system allowing remote monitoring and all linked back to a central system. 

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The CCTV had to work for the schools and we understand that they know their buildings the best, so we worked closely with them to ensure that all areas were covered effectively, providing the best coverage possible. We tested the systems prior to completion and allowed the schools to provide feedback. All feedback was taken on board and from this improvements to coverage were made as part of our installation works at no extra cost to the client. This way we made sure that best possible service was delivered to them, giving a secure and safe environment that works for the end user.

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Security fencing of various types including standard mesh fencing through to bespoke made iron security gates, were installed to prevent unwanted visitors and also ensure the children were safe whilst at school. We sat with our client and discussed the various options that were given to us by our supply chain, allowing them to utilise the best products in the best locations to suit their needs.

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The latest access control, video intercom and fob access systems were installed to main gates, and power openers / closers were installed to ensure that locking of gates was automatic and opening could be done from the schools offices. Keypads and fob access was provided to allow staff to enter and leave without disturbing the day to day functions of the schools. To ensure compliance with fire regulations as well they were all linked back to the fire alarm system to operate when an emergency arises.