Melton Borough Council - Active Fire Prevention

The Challenge

Melton Borough Council encountered a critical situation when the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) flagged potential deficiencies in the emergency lighting and fire alarm systems within one of their sheltered housing schemes. The building's technical complexity, coupled with the stringent limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, made it exceptionally challenging to identify a qualified and competent contractor. They needed an expert partner who could not only accurately assess the extent of these problems but also efficiently plan and execute the necessary remedial actions.

The Solution

Melton Borough Council sought a solution through the Efficiency East Midlands (EEM) framework, a process that enabled them to efficiently make contact and directly award the necessary works. Ventro emerged as the top choice, excelling in technical expertise, value for money, and projected customer satisfaction.

Upon engagement, Ventro's qualified technicians assessed existing systems and, collaborating with Melton's Resident Liaison team, developed a comprehensive program of works. Despite the limitations imposed by the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ventro's cooperation with the appropriate teams ensured the health and safety of residents was maintained and prioritized. This approach also effectively minimized disruption to residents, strategically utilizing a spare room for storage and setup. As part of this project, Ventro installed a HONEYWELL Notifier alarm panel, which provided the necessary coverage across the entire site without the need for multiple panels.

The Results

Ventro's partnership delivered significant results for Melton Borough Council and its residents:

• Enhanced Safety and Compliance: The project significantly improved the safety infrastructure of the sheltered scheme. Ventro ensured all emergency lighting and fire alarm installations met critical British Standards, specifically BS 5266 (emergency lighting) and BS 5839-1 (fire alarms), including checks for LUX standard compliance.

• Minimized Disruption: Despite the challenges of working during the pandemic, Ventro's collaborative approach and resident-focused strategies ensured minimal disturbance to daily life for residents.

• Increased Resident Confidence: Residents and their families gained a profound sense of security and peace of mind in their homes, knowing their safety systems were expertly upgraded.

• Improved Data Management and Transparency: Upon completion, all asset data was digitally transferred, enabling Melton to maintain crucial information in the cloud and on internal systems, supporting their Golden Thread of building information.