Project Overview

In the heart of a bustling urban neighbourhood, a new building project posed unique challenges due to its proximity to neighbouring properties. One of the critical requirements was the implementation of robust fire protection measures, particularly for a large public meeting space within the structure. This necessitated adherence to stringent Australian Standards and Building Code of Australia (BCA) regulations, which mandated fire protection for windows and doors within 3 metres of side boundaries.
The solution came in the form of Greene Fire's Vii® Fire Cabin product—an innovative fire safety measure designed to provide effective containment in the event of a fire. Unlike traditional fire doors or shutters, this is a fusible link activated fire curtain system. This system operates independently of power and alarm signals, ensuring reliability even during power outages or emergencies. Additionally, it is rigorously tested and approved to meet AS1530.4 and AS1905.2 standards, offering an impressive Fire Resistance Level (FRL) of -/120/- for sizes up to 3 metres wide and 3 metres high.

Purpose of the Case Study

The primary aim of this case study is to showcase the implementation and effectiveness of Vii® Fire Cabin Fire Curtains in an urban construction project. By examining this real-world application at St Lukes Church, we highlight the challenges faced, the solutions Greene Fire have provided and the outcomes achieved. It serves as a valuable resource for developers, architects and safety engineers looking to enhance fire safety in similar projects.

Implementation

The implementation involved the installation of 16 fire curtains spanning from the ground level to the second floor of the building. Each curtain was meticulously tailored to fit precisely around the designated openings requiring fire protection. This precision was crucial, as it ensured seamless integration without compromising the aesthetic or functional aspects of the building design.

Challenges

The project faced several challenges. First, it needed to comply with rigorous fire safety standards, including compartmentalisation and smoke control, to protect the building’s occupants and structure. Couvaras faced the challenge of integrating fire safety solutions within the church's existing design, which required careful planning to maintain the building’s historical character.
One of the primary challenges encountered during the installation was the accurate measurement and fabrication of the curtains to accommodate the specific layout of the building. Some openings required shutters to be installed directly above each other, necessitating customised adjustments to the fusible link shroud for optimal functionality and space utilisation.

Benefits

This enhancement ensures that, in the event of a fire, the curtains will contain the flames and smoke, allowing safe evacuation and minimising damage. The installation of these fire curtains ensure full compliance with local fire safety regulations and standards, providing peace of mind to the church’s stakeholders and the local community.

Customised Solutions

Greene Fire provided a bespoke solution to meet the project's unique requirements. This included offering flexibility with both left- and right-hand side shroud options, accommodating the diverse layout configurations of the building's openings. By utilising these fire curtains, the construction project was able to maximise its footprint by placing the building closer to the boundary, thereby optimising space in the densely populated urban area.

Outcome

The deployment of these fire curtains ensured compliance with regulatory standards while enhancing the overall safety of the building and its occupants. In the event of a fire, the curtain’s advanced fire containment capabilities provide reassurance that fire spread will be effectively managed, protecting both building occupants and neighbouring properties.
Moreover, the installation of these curtains contributed to the seamless integration of fire safety measures into the architectural design, preserving the aesthetic integrity of the building. The absence of visible power connections and alarm systems further minimised visual clutter, maintaining a clean and modern appearance.

Conclusion

The case of implementing Vii® Fire Cabin fire curtains in this urban construction project exemplifies Greene Fire's commitment to innovation and safety in fire protection solutions. By leveraging its advanced technology and customisation capabilities, the project not only met but exceeded regulatory standards, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all stakeholders involved.
Moving forward, Greene Fire continues to set benchmarks in fire safety solutions, offering tailored approaches that blend functionality with architectural design considerations. The success of Vii® Fire Cabin the fire curtains in this project underscores its effectiveness in urban settings where space optimisation and stringent safety standards are paramount.
In conclusion, Vii® Fire Cabin fire curtains stand as a testament to Greene Fire's dedication to enhancing fire safety in modern construction, offering peace of mind and protection in urban environments worldwide.

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