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In the event of an emergency, the last thing anyone wants is to be trapped in a building, by an escape door that fails to open. Many fire escape doors now incorporate electronic access control systems, which can malfunction in the event of a fire, or power failure.

Building owners must ensure that there is a ‘fail safe’ way of opening the escape door, in the event of an emergency.

As well as the risk of trapping building occupants, failure of electronically secured doors to open in the event of fire, can also hamper fire‑fighting and rescue operations.

To address this, BS7273-4:2015 exists as a UK code of practice, for the operation and release of electronically controlled escape doors. BS7273-4:2015 contains recommendations for the specification, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of the electrical control arrangements within electronically controlled escape doors.

The code of practice recommends how to actuate mechanisms that unlock, release or open doors, in the event of fire, in all buildings.  BS7273-4:2015 applies to all aspects of the interface between the door mechanisms and a fire detection and fire alarm system, including interfaces that incorporate acoustic coupling and radio transmission.

Amendment to BS7273-4:2015

BS7273-4:2015 has recently been amended, and BS 7273-4:2015+A2:2023 is now the latest version of this code of practice. This latest version features commentary that aims to further enhance safety for building occupants, who may need to use electronically controlled escape doors, in the event of an emergency.

The standard now directly refers to ‘BS EN 13637 Building hardware – Electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape routes’ in respect of any electrically locked door on an escape route. A BS EN 13637 exit system permits the safe and unimpeded exit of a building’s occupant in the event of an emergency, whilst retaining the measures required to secure the escape door from unauthorised access.

As well as being installed correctly, it is important that the components within the exit system are regularly tested by a competent individual, to ensure that the door continues to operate in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.

For advice regarding BS7273-4:2015, and fire safety in relation to electronically controlled escape doors, please contact us.

 

 

Crime in retail stores is an ongoing and increasing concern across the United Kingdom. Retail crime is not only a burden on businesses but can also have a detrimental effect on staff. Retailers Against Crime (RAC) is a not for profit retail crime partnership, committed to detecting and preventing crime, including acts of violence, by sharing information across the UK. The RAC held their annual Northern Ireland conference on 21st June 2023, at the iconic Titanic Belfast. Diamond Systems were delighted to support the event by taking an exhibition stand.

The conference focused on a range of issues including the wider economic effects of retail crime and the lived experience of retailers. Practical advice and insight was provded from expert speakers, and there were plenty of networking opportunities. Thank you to Maxine Fraser and Retailers Against Crime for letting us contribute to this excellent conference!

Sustainability is, more than likely, a key item on your agenda if you are fortunate to work for a responsible business.

But have you thought about how your premises fire and security systems can actually help move you closer to your sustainability goals?

Our Joint Managing Director, Angela Bennett, explains how Diamond Systems have implemented sustainable solutions, and how we can help our customers meet their sustainability goals.

Q: How important is sustainability and the environment within Diamond Systems?

We have, for many years, been aware of the impact of our business on the environment, which is why we have been operating a paperless service management system since 2007. Engineers are all equipped with handheld devices on which they receive their job instructions and capture customer signatures, on completion of the works. Communication between the office and customers is all electronic, from satisfaction surveys to invoicing.

We were also the first local fire and security company to achieve the NVIR-O-CERT accreditation, which is a construction-specific Environmental Management System, developed by the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and supported by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) and the leading environmental professional body, the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment.

How important is product selection in providing a sustainable service?

Our selection of manufacturing partners has always had sustainability in mind, and we offer a range of systems which are durable and highly effective, minimising both faults and false alarms and the associated environmental impact created therein.

Our systems have a much longer life-cycle, which for the intelligent buyer, offers a much higher return on investment.

Q: What changes to working practices have you implemented recently to further enhance sustainability?

This year we have invested in a new fleet of Hybrid vehicles, to reduce our CO2 emissions and obtain higher fuel efficiency. Our carbon footprint is reduced further by minimising engineer visits to site, thanks to the remote maintenance capabilities of our systems. We also now pre-configure systems at our Head Office, before the engineer goes to site. We currently have a big focus on reducing waste within our operations and are implementing lean working practices.

Q: How can you help customers with their sustainable goals?

The first thing we would do is review the current systems installed within the premises, and provide a report on their age and condition. Our recommendations thereafter would be based on the company’s desired level of sustainability. We can provide everything from a straightforward upgrade of the system to more modern and reliable technology, which will reduce call outs and the environmental impact of maintenance, through to a fully integrated cloud solution that will dramatically reduce the carbon footprint associated with fire and security systems.

Q: How can fire and security systems help customers with their sustainability goals?

Some practical examples of how intelligent fire and security systems can improve sustainability are:

• Cloud based systems which enable remote connection for both the user and Diamond engineers – dramatically reducing unnecessary motion to site, and the associated environmental impact
• Remote diagnostics which pre-empt potential system faults, minimising false alarms and eliminating business down time / waste
• Competently designed CCTV systems that can reduce video storage requirements, thus reducing total energy output
• Reliable, responsive fire detection and alarm systems, providing the earliest warning of fire. This could ultimately be the difference between the survival of your business, or not, should a fire break out.

Q: How can responsible businesses find out more?

To arrange a survey of your current fire and security systems, and to find out more about our sustainable solutions, please get in touch directly or Contact us via our website.

On Friday 25^th November 2022, Diamond Systems held a Fire Detection Design Conference in the Crowne Plaza, Belfast, in conjunction with our fire alarm partner, Siemens. This was an opportunity to bring together a range of stakeholders from across the fire sector, to hear from some of the UK’s Leading Experts in Fire Detection and Alarm Systems.

Diamond Systems’ Joint Managing Director, Angela Bennett opened the conference, with a welcome address that included the “premiere” of a short video, marking the company’s 35 year anniversary in business in 2022. You can watch the video here.

Will Lloyd, Technical Manager of the Fire Industry Association (FIA) was the first to present, and delivered an excellent summary of the common fire alarm design pitfalls, which was highly informative and useful to the many designers who were in attendance.

Rob Yates, Head of Fire Products Siemens UK and Ireland, presented next, and shared some of the latest digitalisation innovations from Siemens in relation to fire alarm connectivity, information and automation. A “fire alarm in your pocket” is now possible thanks to cloud connectivity and app technology, giving fire alarm users huge benefits and greater transparency on testing carried out.

Colin Todd MBE, Managing Director of CS Todd & Associates Ltd was the keynote speaker and delivered an impactful presentation on BS5839-1 – When Things Go Wrong. Real life examples reinforced the need for adequately designed, installed, commissioned and maintained fire alarm systems, which play an essential role in life safety.

We are grateful to all those who supported the conference and we look forward to hosting similar future events.

To view a list of our CPD training events currently on offer please click here.

The Diamond team attended the inaugural Business Eye Northern Ireland Family Business Awards, in the Culloden Hotel on 19 May, 2002.

Diamond Systems was shortlisted in three categories:

• Fastest Growing Family Business
• Family Business Legacy Award
• Overall Family Business of the Year

We were delighted to be presented with the Family Business Legacy Award, an award for the Northern Ireland based family enterprise which has demonstrated extraordinary business achievement over the years, has contributed positively to the local community and economy and which sets an example for others to follow. This category was sponsored by Harbinson Mulholland Chartered Accountants.

Collecting the award on behalf of the company, Joint Managing Director, Angela Bennett, paid tribute to company founder, Tom Snoddon, and her brother Steve Snoddon, for the successful partnership and transition from first to second generation family business. “As a family business since 1987, we are very proud of our roots, and we have always strived to lead the way in the local fire and security sector. This award is testament to all the hard work of my dad, my brother and I, and the entire team throughout all the years”.

 

International Women’s Day (8th March) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The theme this year is “Break the Bias”, as the day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.

To celebrate #IWD2022, some of the females on the team at Diamond Systems told us who their female role models are, and a little bit about their hopes for future female generations.

Q1 – Who are the female role models in your life & why?

Amy:  It’s hard to pick just a few! I like to think that I’ve always managed to surround myself with great women who have been influential to me throughout my life. My mother is one of the smartest people I know and her perception is second to none, while my sister has talent radiating out of her! And between my two closest friends, they’ve shown me what it is to be caring, humorous and empathetic. One in particular has shown me what it is to have an unwavering confidence in herself, along with her sharpness, passion for life and drive. They (as well as many, many other women I’ve had the pleasure of knowing) have all helped to shape me into the woman that I am.

Angela: Like Amy, too many to mention! That’s the great thing about networking, you meet so many inspirational women in business from all walks of life. When I first started my career, as a trainee chartered accountant, there were a small number of females in management and leadership positions within the firm I worked for, but although few in number, they were great role models. My mum also inspired me when I was growing up, as she worked full time, along with raising two children, and helping my dad in the early days of setting up his business.

Emma: My female role model is my Mum.  She has always taught me to be respectful, kind, patient.  To have passion and believe in yourself. Also to have acceptance of others.

Julieann: My amazing Mum is my female role model.  She has been my personal coach and number one supporter during every stage of life’s journey! She is selfless, has taught me many qualities in life including being honest, appreciative, taught me right from wrong and shown me that if you really want something you need to work hard for it! I admire her strength, having dealt with many obstacles and struggles in life – in my eyes she is the world’s strongest woman!

Q2 – If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give your teenage self?

Emma: I would tell my younger self not to worry too much, everything will work out in the end.  Be kind to yourself.  On a practical level, learn how to manage /save money.

Amy: I’d also tell myself not to worry so much! Don’t worry about what other people think, and don’t worry about situations that are out of your control. They’ll work themselves out and it’ll never be as bad as you think.

Julieann: Focus more on your education. Be patient, give yourself time to work it out! Take those opportunities with confidence, Don’t let your fear or self-doubt get in the way. Confidence is key! I’d also say listen to your parents and the wise people around you more. Above all, follow your dreams!

Angela: Yes, definately not to worry as much! But I would also say, if you can afford it and have the opportunity, do some travelling before you start your working life! Never again will you have the freedom and flexibility to travel for as long as you like.  I think there are very useful life skills to be be gained from spending some time travelling, and it is something I wish I had done.

Q3 – International Women’s Day hopes to help shape the future for women. How do you think the future generation of women will differ from your own generation?

 Amy: It’s hard to say or predict, but I hope the future generation of women to come will be able to feel completely equal to their male counterparts, proper pay parity across all job sectors and that there will be more women in positions of power to affect real change for the betterment of society… Surely not a big ask!

Emma: Being a mum to two young girls, I think the next generation of women will have more leadership roles. We will have more gender equality, more flexible working, and childcare duties will be more balanced between couples.

Julieann: I think females in today’s society have better opportunities to go far in life. Women today can accomplish anything, if they have the right mind set and work hard to succeed. For me feminism means equality, and that’s something I hope future generations will have.

Angela: The next generation are a force to be reckoned with! I see it in my own children and their friends. They have grown up seeing females in top positions, be it in school, politics, business – it is normal to them, as it should be, and always should have been. I have very few concerns for this future generation of females, my concern is, will the future generation of men be able to handle it!

Thanks to the Diamond ladies for sharing their thoughts this International Women’s Day 2022. One thing’s for sure, they all love their mums!

Connect with our team on Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter.

Diamond Systems Joint Managing Director, Steve Snoddon, has been successfully awarded the UK’s leading Fire Detection Design qualification.

Steve has worked in the fire and security industry for over 25 years, starting out in the family business as an apprentice engineer and working his way up through all areas of the company.  Steve is the nominated designer within the company and is widely recognised for his expertise and understanding of the legislation and codes of practice surrounding electronic fire and security systems. The successful completion of this qualification enables Steve to confidently and comprehensively carry out design work relating to both new systems and alterations that may be required to existing Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, to the requirements of BS 5839.

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) Level 3 in Fire Detection and Alarm Design Theory and Regulatory Requirements, was introduced following consultation with industry leaders and employers. The syllbus matches the needs of the industry with what learners really need to understand to comprehensively design fire detection and alarm systems.

Commenting on Steve’s recent achievement, FIA Training Manager, Michael Gregg said:

“The FIA would like to congratulate Steve on completing his FIA AO Level 3 in Fire Detection and Alarm Design Theory and Regulatory Requirements. This course along with the other courses within the Design syllabus are possibly the toughest of all the FIA Qualifications to achieve and requires time, effort and dedication to complete. After the Grenfell tragedy, and the recommendations following it, the FIA fully support recognised qualifications within the fire industry which help raise the knowledge and skill levels of people working in this sector. Once again well done to Steve on his achievement.”

The content of the course, which Steve undertook remotely due to COVID restrictions, includes:

• Legislation
• BS 5839-1 – Fire Detection & Alarm System Design for non-domestic premises
• BS5839-6 – An introduction to Fire Detection & Alarm Systems for domestic premises
• IS 3218 – Fire Detection & Alarm Systems for buildings for the Republic of Ireland
• BS EN 54 – A series of FD& A System Product Standards
• BS 7273 – Code of Practice for the operation of fire protection measures
• BS 6266 – Fire Protection Equipment for electronic equipment installations
• BS 7671 – Requirements for electrical installations
• Emergency Lighting/Signage
• BS 9999/BS 9991 – Fire safety in the design management & use of buildings
• BS EN 12845 – A brief introduction to Fire Suppression & extinguishing
• Interpreting Customer Specifications
• Selecting system type/System design
• Communication, Liaising with third parties and Documentation
• Advanced System Design Principles
• Designing for Inspection and Test

Diamond Systems is accredited by The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), to deliver Continuous Professional Development (CPD) training, which is co-presented by Steve. For more information on our Fire Detection Design course, please visit our CPD page. If we can assist with delivering your fire detection and alarm requirements, or you require design support, contact us.

Diamond Systems’ Joint Managing Director, Angela Bennett was recently named as the UK Business Manager of the Year at the Women in Security awards, held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Professional Security Magazine presented the Women in Security Awards 2020, which was broadcast live on You Tube on February 10th.

This year there was a massive number of entries and ten judges from leading security sector bodies drew up a shortlist of 15 finalists, 3 in each category. The 15 finalists were invited to join in the virtual ceremony via a zoom call, during which the winners in each category were announced.

The event is the security profession’s dedicated awards to recognise and honour the accomplishments, value and contributions of women within the wider world of security. Angela was a finalist in the Business Manager category, which recognised outstanding leadership, developing and running a business

Roy Cooper, Managing Director of Professional Security Magazine congratulated Angela Bennett for her win in the Business Manager category, saying, “Angela’s nomination was clearly the best out of the large number of entries received. I would like to complement her on her achievement as great and fantastic business manager”.

Angela commented, “It was an honour to be involved in such a fantastic event which promotes and celebrates women in the security sector. Although the event had to be held virtually, it was a really great night, and even better that I was able to share the celebration with family at home”.

 

Fire and security systems are there to protect lives and assets, but all too often, maintenance of these systems is substandard, putting you and your business at risk.

If you are responsible for non-domestic premises, you will have engaged with an alarm maintenance provider. They will inspect your system at regular intervals, you will pay them an annual fee, and the relationship may continue for many years.

But are they telling you everything you need to know?

Here are 5 questions you should ask your alarm maintenance provider to keep yourself well-informed:

1. Is the company third party certified?
   This means that an independent expert, (the third party), has assessed the business and found that it has met certain standards. The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) is the most widely recognised mark of approval in security and fire safety, and NSI Gold is the highest standard awarded. Alarm maintenance companies should be able to provide you with a copy of their certification. Make sure the certificate is relevant to the type of alarm system being maintained, as there are separate schemes for fire alarms and security systems.
2. Can you have a copy of the engineers’ maintenance report?
   If the maintenance company is third party certified, they should be providing you with this report as a matter of course. It may be electronic or hard copy, but either way, you need to get it as it will tell you what checks have been carried out on the system, and what the results were. In relation to fire alarms, the maintenance provider should carry out a 100% test of all the devices once per year, with intervening periodic inspections testing a portion of these. This should all be documented on the report. The report should be retained on file by you, as proof of servicing, and you should always satisfy yourself that you understand what has been noted on the report. It may include important recommendations, and highlight anything that needs remedial action.
3. Is the system still fit for purpose?
   Since the original system was installed, the building usage may have changed; it may have been extended, or repartitioned. All these factors impact on the system’s operability, whether it be a fire alarm, CCTV, or intruder alarm system. You should discuss any changes with the maintenance provider.
4. What is the age of the system and what is the manufacturers’ recommended life span?
   This is particulalry relevant for fire alarm systems, as typically fire alarms will need upgraded after 10 – 15 years, with detectors changed as a minimum.  If you are about to purchase a new alarm system, always check what the manufacturers recommended life span is so you can evaluate the total cost of ownership. It is worth checking that the system still complies with applicable legislation, for example the Equality Act.
5. Can you see evidence of the engineers’ competency?
   This is very important as it will ensure that the engineers working on your system are trained and are competent – imagine the potential risk of an inexperienced person working on your fire alarm in particular! The Fire Industry Association provides certificated training for engineers and is used extensively by professional maintenance companies.

Diamond Systems has over 30 years’ experience and are NSI Gold accredited for both fire and security alarm systems.

If you would like a quotation for alarm maintenance from Diamond Systems, please get in touch on 02890 207 207 or email sales@diamondsystems.co.uk.

As a business owner, it is important to be aware that COVID 19 does not detract from your responsibilities for fire safety in the workplace.

The stark reality is that the immediate risk to life from a fire greatly exceeds the risk from COVID-19.

Here are 5 simple fire safety tips to help you plan for a safe return to the workplace:

1. Review your existing fire safety procedures and documentation, including the key document for business owners -the fire risk assessment. If you don’t currently have a fire risk assessment, contact us about getting this vital fire safety document created, or an existing one brought up to date.
2. Consider if your existing fire safety procedures and documentation need amended in light of any changes made due to COVID-19. For example, have all designated fire wardens or fire marshals returned from furlough? Has there been any change to the layout of the premises to facilitate social distancing? Are newly erected screens or partitioning impacting on fire detection or warning device capabilities? Such changes should not be overlooked as they may be critical to your emergency plan and fire detection operational effectiveness.
3. After any amendments to your fire safety procedures and documentation have been made, it is essential to confirm that the changes can be implemented effectively. Do they present unintended consequences that will only become apparent when they are tested? For example, how will you ensure social distancing is maintained during a fire drill? Do one-way systems, safety screens and queuing systems impact on the escape routes and travel distances?
4. Ensure safety measures introduced to manage the risks related to COVID-19 do not unintentionally create security risks, which in turn can increase the risk of arson. For example, have you deactivated access control systems to limit touch points? You may want to consider contact free access control, to help protect your premises whilst taking account of COVID measures.
5. It is essential that you continue with all testing and maintenance regarding fire safety systems and equipment. If you have delayed inspections of fire extinguishers or maintenance of fire alarm systems, citing COVID-19 as your reason for doing so, this should be addressed urgently. The minimum servicing interval for fire detection and alarm systems is 6 months.

If you are responsible for fire safety within your business, we can assist you with your responsibilities, particularly within a changing workplace due to COVID 19.

Why not get in touch to register your interest in our free upcoming webinars on fire safety for business owners by emailing sales@diamondsystems.co.uk.