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Fire protection in prisons

Danfoss Fire Safety addressing the unique fire safety challenges of custodial facilities

Custodial facilities present unique challenges and conditions that can increase the risk of fires. This may include limited escape routes, restricted access to certain areas and the potential for violence among prisoners. Effective protection measures, systems, and planning are essential to ensure the safety of staff, prisoners, and visitors as well as to safeguard the structural integrity of the buildings. In the UK, for example the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) commissioned the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to evaluate fire suppression methods for custodial facilities. The results indicate that high-pressure water mist is effective in suppressing cell fires while maintaining tenable fire conditions for both prisoners and staff during rescue operations. 

The use of high-pressure water mist systems reflects a modern and effective approach to fire suppression, prioritising the safety of both prisoners and staff. 

Complete system continuity from pump to nozzle – all provided by Danfoss Fire Safety

Fire protection in custodial facilities

How does the SEM-SAFE® high-pressure water mist system work in a prison?

The SEM-SAFE® high-pressure water mist system consists of a pump unit, pipes, fittings, valves, nozzles and a fire hose reel cabinet. From the SEM-SAFE® pump unit, a main pipe goes to the roof, and from there, a network of pipes supplies water to each protected area in the building. In each prison cell, open nozzles are installed with an anti-ligature mounting kit, which is a dedicated safe and secure solution for prison cells. The open nozzles are activated by a fire detection system and local automatic valves, eliminating the need for manual intervention. In the event of a fire within a protected cell, the fire alarm system sends a signal to open the relevant solenoid valve.

Once the valve has opened and water begins to flow, the subsequent pressure loss prompts the pumps to start, initating the propulsion of water through the distribution pipework. Water mist is then discharged solely into the affected area. The staff can manually bypass the solenoid control valve for each cell, enabling them to start or stop water flow to the nozzles independently of the fire alarm system signal. In addition to the cell nozzles, the system protects corridors with a closed nozzle installed on the wall (sidewall installation). The associated spaces are protected by a closed nozzle installed in the ceiling (pendant installation). SEM-SAFE® water mist fire hose reel cabinets are installed on each floor with a 50-m-long flexible hose. The SEMSAFE® water mist fire hose reel cabinets are compliant with the MOJ Technical Standards. The SEM-SAFE® high-pressure water mist system can be integrated with all forms of custodial fire detection.

One solution for custodial facilities

SEM-SAFE® key advantages for custodial facilities

Competitive solution

The most efficient in-cell water mist nozzle on the market

  • The SEM-SAFE® in-cell nozzle is the most efficient water mist nozzle on the market for the protection of custodial cells. This is achieved by optimising the pressure and flow, resulting in a compliant solution.

Larger area covered per nozzle

  • Our sidewall nozzle has a mist throw that protects both sides of corridors, allowing a single nozzle to cover entire corridor widths. The distance between the nozzles is determined
    by the separation distance of the risers. This efficient design means that only half as many nozzles are needed, lowering the installation costs.

Cost-effective solution

  • With a commitment to reducing energy and water consumption, the SEM-SAFE® system, with its reduced operating pressure, lower power and water demands, and smaller pipework, can prove to be a cost-effective solution with regard to both installation and overall operating costs.

Economical high-pressure pump unit

  • With its refined system operating pressure, the MOJ-compliant Danfoss high-pressure pump unit is extremely economical. The total water flow and pressure requirements are achieved with a frequency converter driven individual pump, resulting in minimal power consumption.
Easy to install and maintain

Flexibility in installation

  • Whether in existing or new prisons, the SEM-SAFE® system is easy to install. It integrates effortlessly across various other installations present in a prison. With the unique thin wall technology of the pipes and a wide range of fittings, the installation in different areas is easy and fast.

Maintenance and reliability

  • Regular maintenance is essential for the continued reliability of any fire protection system. The SEM-SAFE® systems are designed with ease of maintenance in mind, contributing to their long-term effectiveness.

Adaptability to building structures

SEM-SAFE® can be customised to the specific layout and structure of a given custodial facility. The system can be designed to provide comprehensive coverage, considering the unique challenges and requirements of the building.

In-cell water mist systems approved under Custodial Technical Standard 054

  • When SEM-SAFE® is installed in a custodial facility, it is done in full compliance with the relevant fire safety regulations and standards. Adhering to these regulations is critical to ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the fire protection system.

Tested and approved solution for custodial facilities

Danfoss Fire Safety has successfully passed fire tests specifically designed for fire protection in custodial facilities. The tests cover the following scenarios in prison cells: 

  • Water mist fire hose reel from door opening (manual activation) 
  • Fixed suspended nozzle centred on the ceiling (automatic activation) 
  • Fixed suspended nozzle off-centre on the ceiling (automatic activation) 
  • Fixed nozzle on the sidewall above the door (automatic activation)
Read also about our toothpaste test in our brochure!

Contact

Harry Wright

Harry Wright, Business Development Manager – UK 

harry.wright@danfoss.com | Click here to connect with Harry on LinkedIn 

Harry is an experienced Business Development Manager with 7 years in the high-pressure water mist industry, specializing in custodial and government projects. With a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Harry combines technical expertise and strategic sales acumen to deliver innovative fire suppression solutions. Passionate about fostering long-term partnerships, Harry is dedicated to driving growth and safety improvements for clients.

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We are a global leader in the sale, development, production and service/commissioning of certified fixed fire fighting systems under the brand name SEM-SAFE®.  Our fire fighting system are based on two key technologies: high-pressure water mist and low-pressure CO2.

BROCHURE

Fire Protection for Custodial Facilities

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