Fire Safety Solutions

As fire safety specialists Lightning are market-leading in our product, design, and service offerings.


A combination of meticulous planning and extensive industry knowledge ensures we provide you with the solution that best matches your needs and requirements.There can be no one-size-fits-all approach to fire safety, which is why our comprehensive product range enables us to keep customers safe, compliant, and able to trade.

Fire Alarm Systems


We offer a comprehensive range of fire alarm solutions from basic  conventional systems through to complex addressable and wireless systems with extensive programmable cause and effect for the end user.


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Domestic Fire Alarm Systems


We offer a variety of solutions to meet the increasing demands of domestic fire alarm systems, all of which meet BS5839-6 2019.

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Remote Signalling Systems


Remote monitoring enables us to provide you with maximum protection in the event of an emergency, protecting your business and property even when the building is empty.


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Disabled Refuge Alarm


It is a legal requirement under the Disbaled Discrimination Act (2004) that all domestic buildings with more than one level must provide some form of protection for disabled individuals within that building. Lightning can supply, install and maintain Refuge alarms in your buildings to help protect everyone within them.


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Extinguishers


Lightning offers Fire Extinguishers to cover all classes and types of fire, protecting you no matter the nature of the emergency.


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AOVs


Lightning’s AOV’s (Automatic Opening Vents) are rooflights which have been designed to reduce smoke buildup and provide a safer escape route for the occupants of the building.


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Fire Suppression Systems


Lightning supply fire suppression systems to extinguish, contain, or entirely prevent fires from occurring and spreading in a variety of environments such as commercial kitchens and data centres.


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Dry and Wet Risers


A general requirement for buildings above 18 meters from the ground, Dry and Wet risers aid and enable the fire service to tackle fires in high level buildings.


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Fire Evacuation Alert System


The Fire Evacuation Alert System is a new BS 8629 compliant system specifically designed to assist the fire and rescue services in evacuating high-rise residential buildings.


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Fire Alarm Systems

Fire alarm systems, complete with their detection devices, comprise a core part of building and life safety, with their quality and accuracy being of paramount importance in preventing damage and harm. From early detection through aspirated VESDA offerings, protection during emergencies via Refuge Systems and AOVs, and around-the-clock cover from Remote Signalling Systems to alert the fire brigade, a comprehensive fire alarm system designed, supplied, and maintained by Lightning Safety Systems can save lives and protect buildings.


Importance of fire alarms:


Fire alarm systems complete with their detection devices comprise a core part of building and life safety, with their quality and accuracy being of paramount importance in preventing damage and harm. From early detection through aspirated VESDA offerings, protection during emergencies via Refuge Systems and AOVs, and around-the-clock cover from Remote Signalling Systems to alert the fire brigade. A comprehensive fire alarm system designed, supplied, and maintained by Lightning Safety Systems can save lives and protect buildings.


Why are they required:


The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 states that all business premises must have ‘an appropriate fire detection system’, while the UK government recommends fire alarm and detection systems should be installed and maintained in accordance with British Standard, BS5839-1.


All premises require a fire risk assessment, that should be conducted annually, which will identify what you need to do to prevent fire and keep people safe. This will include a fire detection system and fire fighting equipment.

  • Conventional Fire Alarm Systems

    These systems are designed for smaller installations (typically up to 20 devices) whereby the premises is divided up into various zones, utilising separate sounder circuits and detection circuits, the devices are wired from the alarm control panel on a radial circuit. The zone producing the fault or fire is indicated at the control panel, but the individual devices are not identified at the panel, so the user will need to search within the identified zone to locate the fire.


    • Designed for smaller installations
    • Uses standard call points and detectors
    • Uses zonal indication, allowing for up to 8 zones
  • Two Wire Fire Alarm Systems

    These systems are designed for smaller installations and to work with the two wire detectors, sounders and call points. Two wire systems work by using different voltage bands for quiescent and alarm states, which allow detectors, manual call-points, output modules, sounders and combined sounder/beacons to be connected to the same pair of wires. With the sounders being on the same radial cable as the detectors, and as long as you have a minimum of two detection zones, there is no need for additional sounder circuits. This makes the installation quicker and more flexible, and can result in up to a 40% saving on the installation cost over a conventional fire alarm system. This system can also identify at the panel if the alarm has been caused by a detector or call point, which reduces search times over a conventional fire alarm system.


    • Designed for smaller installations
    • Quicker, flexible installation
    • Cost savings of up to 40% on installations due to reduced cabling
    • Identifiable detector or call point activation
  • Analogue Addressable Fire Alarm Systems ('Hard' and 'Soft')

    Hard addressing is where the address is manually allocated to each device via a numerical binary code tag or switch within the device.


    Soft addressing is where the software within the fire alarm control panel automatically allocates a unique number to each device in the order that the devices are wired to the panel. 


    These are designed for either larger installations where a more technologically advanced solution is required, or for multi-building networked systems where fire alarm panels are linked together. Addressable fire alarm systems provide the user with the status of the initiating devices that comprise the system network; that is, smoke detectors, call points, output unit etc. The fire alarm system control panel or repeater panel allows the user to easily view the initiating device and its location by viewing the panel's LCD display. The devices are coded and given a text location, either using a tag or plugging the device into a programmer and then having text added at the fire alarm panel or via a PC and software. For example; Device number 1 can be assigned “Ground Floor Entrance Lobby”.


    This addressing system allows the user or the Fire and Rescue Service to quickly locate the source of the fire or the activated device, reducing the seek and search time period- locating a fire quickly can save lives and reduce damage to the property.


    • Designed for larger installations
    • Smaller panels are one to two loops while larger panels are able to handle four loops or more, typically each loop can accommodate from 127 to over 200 devices (subject to manufacturer)
    • Panels are programmable, providing detailed cause and effect facilities
    • Device-specific identification
    • System infrastructure extendable via additional loops and/or additional panels
    • All devices on the same loop 
    • LCD display 
  • Radio (Wireless) Fire Alarm

    Radio fire detection first became available in the early 1980’s when many National Trust, English Heritage and privately owned dwellings were desperately seeking an alternative to hard wired systems, due to all of the complications and disruptions such a system could bring.


    Radio fire alarm systems are smoke and heat detectors, sounders and other devices interlinked through radio-frequency signals, offering complex multi-path, fault-tolerant signalling. 


    With wireless and battery technology having significantly improved over the years, radio systems minimise false alarms and are perfect for all types and sizes of buildings as the range can be extended with the use of wireless or wired signal boosters to ensure full connectivity, providing a reliable, effective and trouble-free fire protection system. Installation costs are also much reduced due to no cabling requirements and each device is battery powered meaning no need for mains power.


    These systems are often used in prestigious, listed buildings and or applications where cabling is either very difficult or not wanted as a means of installing a fire alarm system.


    Our systems are fully addressable, fully approved EN-54 compliant solutions that range from 8 zone panels capable of controlling 99 devices through to multi-loop systems containing hundreds to thousands of devices.


    -Used for prestigious applications

    -Much reduced installations costs and time

  • VESDA

    VESDA stands for Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus, a technology utilising  powerful aspirating smoke detection to provide early warning life safety solutions that buy the critical time needed to mitigate risk- allowing rapid intervention to protect life-critical infrastructure and high-value assets.


    Utilised by the world’s top governments and businesses, instead of cables the systems use a series of pipes that run out from the panel location. Where a smoke detector would normally be sited, you can either drill a hole directly into the pipework or install a capillary tube. The panel is fitted with a pump that draws air through the pipework back to a sensing chamber. The benefits of a VESDA system over a traditional fire alarm system is its wide-ranging application adaptable to any kind of space, including data centres, warehouses, prisons, airports, clean rooms and large atriums. VESDA detectors offer multi-level warning and high sensitivity that doesn't degrade or change over time, meaning even minute levels of smoke can be detected before a fire has time to escalate.


    • Used in a wide range of environments
    • Protects critical infrastructure, high-value assets and business continuity

Domestic Fire Alarm

In the UK, around 80% of all fire deaths and injuries occur in dwellings, a total of 450-500 deaths and 14,000 injuries per annum according to BS5839-6; 2004. The installation of a fire detection and alarm system can significantly reduce the risk of death or serious injury from fire. Theses systems can be designed for differing domestic premises:


A- Those that accommodate a single family
B - Houses in multiple occupation that comprise a number of self contained units, each designed to accommodate a single family
C - Sheltered housing, including both the dwelling units and the common areas

The recommendation applies to both new and existing domestic premises.

The three categories for fire detection and fire alarm systems are listed below - these outline where fire detection systems should be installed per category with additional recommendations to install heat alarms in kitchens:

LD1 MAXIMUM PROTECTION 


Escape routes, high risk rooms plus all areas where a fire might start.


The highest level of protection of all occupants who might occupy the dwelling over the lifetime of the fire detection and fire alarm system. A system installed throughout the premises, incorporating detectors in all circulation areas that form part of the escape routes from the premises, and in all rooms and areas, other than those with negligible sources of ignition, such as toilets, bathrooms and shower rooms. 


Hallway, Landing, Living Room, Kitchen (Heat Alarm), Bedroom, Airing / Meter Cupboards, Loft, Garage.

LD2 ADDITIONAL PROTECTION


Escape routes plus high risk rooms.


A system incorporating detectors in all circulation areas that form part of the escape routes from the premises, and in all specified rooms or areas that present a high fire risk to occupants, including a heat alarm in any kitchen and a smoke alarm in principle habitable room(s). Note: This is now the new minimum category for all rented properties and must include a heat alarm in the kitchen and a smoke alarm in principle habitable room(s). 


Hallway, Landing, Living Room, Kitchen (Heat Alarm)

LD3 MINIMUM PROTECTION


Escape routes only


A system incorporating detectors in all circulation areas that form part of the escape routes from the premises. Smoke alarms should be installed in all circulation spaces that form part of escape routes such as: 


Hallway, Landing


Note: This minimum category now only applies to owner occupied bungalow, flat, single-storey unit or maisonette with no floor level above 4.5m from ground level or owner-occupied two-storey house.

Minimum Grade and Category of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm System
Latest revisions include new minimum grades and categories of systems split by new build or existing property. Updates have been made to reflect current types of living conditions, see summary table below*:

New Minimum Standard for Rented Properties and Owner Occupied:

Rented Properties - New Minimum Standard now requires LD2 and D1 Grade alarms whether existing or new build plus note D


Owner Occupied -New Minimum Standard now requires LD2 and D2 alarms plus note D for new builds / materially altered, Grade F2 alarms and LD3 min for bungalow / single storey unit but now with notes E), F) and G


Where more than one smoke alarm is installed, all smoke alarms need to be interlinked [see 13.2c)]. Any heat alarms also need to be interlinked with the smoke alarms.


Notes:


• 13.2c) In all premises, all smoke alarms and heat alarms (if provided) in Grade D and Grade F systems should be interlinked, such that, when fire is detected by any smoke alarm or heat alarm, an audible fire alarm warning is given by all smoke alarms and heat alarms in the premises.


Owner occupied properties:


• Note E) A Grade F1 system should be installed if there is any doubt regarding the long term suitability or reliability of a battery powered system, i.e. the ability to replace batteries
• Note F) Where electrical work such as a rewire is undertaken, Grade (D1 or D2) category LD2 system should be installed
• Note G) Scottish Housing Act 1987 Order 2019 (11), Grade F1, Category LD2 systems are a minimum in existing dwellings

Lightning have partnered with two specialist manufacturers to provide market-leading domestic fire alarm solutions.

Fire Angel Systems

Fire Angel utilise cutting edge technology designed with housing providers and installers in mind– this flexible, easy to fit range holds over 100 technology patents and currently protect over 15 million UK homes, offering maximum protection to your home and possessions.


1. Wireless interlinking optional (up to 50 devices).

2. Flexible hybrid network capability

3. Proven low carbon footprint

4. Remote monitoring of alarms


Download PDF guide for more information

Safety Advice How to install hard wired and wireless detectors Remote Testing FAQs

HUSH PRO - Next Generation Domestic Fire Alarm Systems


HUSH-PRO is a Grade C domestic fire alarm system to BS 5839-6 2019 with its own mains power supply & rechargeable standby battery for use in individual dwellings.


It provides easy-to-use detection, alarm, silencing and test facilities and has the ability, when connected to a communal/landlord system, to virtually eliminate false alarms outside the dwelling.


Visual alarms, voice sounders, cooker shut-off relays, telecare interfaces, sprinkler flow switches and smoke vent controllers can all be easily interfaced to the system.


Any number of HUSH-PRO systems can be connected to a C-TEC ‘CAST’ communal/landlord addressable fire system allowing secure centrally controlled evacuation signalling to help make Stay-Put or Defend in Place strategies safer.


In addition, the Fire & Rescue Service can be provided with manual evacuation controls to centrally activate a dwelling’s alarm devices.


When used to its full potential, Hush-Pro can report fires, faults and other system data to PCs, tablets and smartphones for action and analysis to allow duty holders to demonstrate due diligence.


HUSH-PRO can even show events such as the progress of a fire in real-time on building plans on or off-site.


Download PDF guide for more information

Fire Extinguishers


There are five types of fire extinguisher classification, class A, B, C and F Fire types and Electrical Fires:


  • Class A fires are fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth and plastics.
  • Class B are flammable liquids
  • Class C are burning gases
  • Class F fires involve cooking oils or fats and differ from conventional liquid fires due to the high temperatures involved
  • Electrical Fires are fires involving potentially energised electrical equipment and can be fought with any extinguishing agent rated for electrical fires including CO2 and dry powder extinguishers
  • Water Extinguishers

    Fire Type Classification A


    Water extinguishers are a very cost-effective method when tackling Class A fires- those fuelled by solid combustible materials such as paper, textiles, and wood. As water conducts electricity it is vital to remember not to use a water extinguisher around electrical equipment unless it is an extinguisher with additives to circumvent this.

  • Foam Extinguishers

    Fire Type Classification A, B


    Foam extinguishers are ideal for use against both solid combustible materials, as well as flammable liquid fires. They extinguish liquid fires by sealing the surface of the liquid, stopping any flammable vapour from reaching the air and starving the fire of fuel. The layer of foam also covers the fire and prevents re-ignition after it has been extinguished.

  • Powder Extinguishers

    Fire Type Classification A, B, C


    Powder extinguishers are best for environments with mixed risk as they offer excellent multi-purpose protection. Also, they uniquely attain a class C rating, making them the only effective solution for fires involving flammable gases. While they are suitable for fires involving electric equipment it is important to consider they do not cool the fire, so it has the potential to reignite.

  • Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers

    Fire Type Classification B


    Carbon Dioxide extinguishers are extremely effective against electrical fires, making them ideal for office spaces or anywhere with a lot of electrical equipment. These extinguishers are also highly effective against Class B fires, as they smother the fire and cut off the air supply to it. Carbon Dioxide extinguishers leave no residue behind, making them one of the cleanest extinguisher options.

  • Wet Chemical Extinguishers

    Fire Type Classification A, F


    Wet Chemical extinguishers are unique in their coverage of class F fires, excellent at tackling fires involving cooking oils and fats. This makes them perfect for restaurants, commercial kitchens, and canteens. These extinguishers are also suitable for class A fires, however not recommended specifically for this purpose. Wet Chemical extinguishers work by knocking the flame out rapidly; cooling the burning oil/fat and then forming a sealant, soap-like in appearance, to cover the surface and prevent reignition.

  • Water Mist Extinguishers

    Fire Type Classification A, B, C, F


    Water Mist extinguishers utilise relatively new technologies that mean despite their water base, they can be used safely on electric fires. Not only electric fires, but for classes A, B, C, and F too. By creating a ‘mist curtain’ around the fire, these extinguishers immediately protect those around it while removing the oxygen and fuel source from the fire, it calms until it is extinguished. The mist has a continued cooling effect and prevents any chance of reignition.

    • Fire extinguishers are colour-coded to be easily recognisable in the event of a fire. Training of staff in the type and use of extinguishers is essential.


    A Complete Fire Extinguisher Package for Peace of Mind (and Compliance)


    Lightning Safety Systems provide supply, commission and maintenance options- automatically reminding you when your extinguishers need compliance testing.


    Ask about our supply and maintenance programme – we will automatically remind you when they need compliance testing.

    Disabled Refuge Alarm Systems

    Disabled Refuge areas are now mandatory for non-domestic buildings


    Part M of the UK government’s building regulations insists that all new non-domestic buildings with more than one storey must provide refuge areas for public safety purposes. These refuge areas are relatively safe places for people to summon help, when they cannot easily use fire escapes. The disabled refuge outstation can be used to call for assistance and also reassure the person until help arrives.


    Effective two-way full duplex communication in these areas is essential, firstly to assist rescue teams in determining where assistance is required, and secondly to reassure people that help is on its way. 


    We offer the standard 2-16 way systems, for larger installations 32 and 48 way are also available. Systems include a flush panel and outstations wired in a radial configuration. 


    Simple and effective two-way communication in these areas is essential, firstly to assist rescue teams in determining where assistance is required, and secondly to reassure people that help is on the way.

    


    Safety and the Disability Discrimination Act


    Part M of the building regulation prescribes a mandatory level of compliance for a building, whereas the Disability Discrimination Act is not a standard, it is a legal vehicle.


    The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) consists of several pieces of civil law that enable disabled people who feel they have been discriminated against, to take action for damages against organisations or individuals, should these considerations not be implemented to support their personal safety in the event of an emergency.


    All Lightning Fire Safety Systems Limited disabled refuge alarm systems are BS9999 & BS5839 Part 9 compliant.

    Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs)


    AOV systems are used mainly to control the ventilation of smoke in a fire. These systems are required in multi-storey residential buildings, hotels and student accommodation to principally protect the stairs to assist escape in the event of a fire, in compliance with the recommendations of Approved Document B and BS9991; 2011.
    In multi-storey residential buildings, the main escape route is always via common corridors and/or lobbies into the stairs. When a detector or call point is triggered, an AOV system will open actuators, windows or vents to create ventilation, clearing smoke from the area. The aim being to keep stairs reasonably free of smoke and to improve conditions in corridors and lobbies due to the results of investigations into smoke inhalation changing building regulations (The provisional standard that is now available for reference EN:12101).


    Our smoke ventilation experience enables us to design a suitable AOV system – including forced extract fan assisted systems where required – for any application.


    Whenever the consultant, Fire Officer, architect or responsible person deems it appropriate and necessary the AOV system can be designed to operate within the overall fire safety solution of any particular site.

    Remote Signalling Systems

    A requirement of BS5839 Part 1

     

    In Autumn 2002, the British Standard relating to the installation and maintenance of fire alarms (BS5839) was revised, and now includes recommendations that fire detection and alarm systems are installed for the protection of property. Known as category “P” systems, they should have some means of automatic transmission of a fire signal to an alarm-receiving centre.


    How would the fire brigade know that your property or business was on fire in the middle of the night? If a building is occupied when a fire breaks out then the fire alarm system is an excellent means of enabling people to safely exit the building whilst the Fire Brigade are contacted to come and put the fire out.


    However, what if the building was unoccupied?


    Your worries and concerns can be eased by having Lightning Safety Systems install a remote signalling system so as to protect your business, your property and its contents.


    It is beautifully simple. When receiving an alarm activation signal the Fire Brigade would be contacted immediately thereby enabling them to within 15 minutes of an alarm being raised.

    Dangers to businesses:


    •     Could your business operate if you were unable to access the building due to fire damage?
    •     Over 70% of businesses that experience a major fire either do not reopen their doors or they fail within the next 3 years.



    Benefits of a 24/7 remotely monitored system:


    •     Peace of mind to owners of properties and businesses when premises are empty.
    •     Fast response to any activated alarm minimising the risk of damage and loss.
    •     Helps meet insurance requirements and reduce the premiums charged.


    Lightning Safety Systems recommend that in all cases fire alarm systems are connected to our remote monitoring system so that we can quickly call the Fire Brigade on your behalf thereby minimising any damage or loss to businesses, property, contents and potentially even people’s lives.


    A requirement of BS5839 Part 1 


    In Autumn 2002, the British Standard relating to the installation and maintenance of fire alarms (BS5839) was revised, and now includes recommendations that Fire detection and alarm systems are installed for the protection of property. Known as category “P” systems, they should have some means of automatic transmission of a fire signal to an alarm-receiving centre. 


    Do I need separate monitoring if my fire alarm is monitored through the BT Redcare on my intruder alarm?


    To comply with the requirements of the British Standard for Fire Alarms, BS 5839, fire alarm systems need to have a separate connection.


    Intruder alarms do not have battery back-up times expected of a fire alarm system, and are rarely installed with fire rated cables.


    Also, a fire alarm system should be continuously monitored as a fire can occur at any time, and an intruder system may not be connected at certain times of the day. 


    Lightning Safety Systems always recommend what has been determined as best practice in the industry, and as such, do not recommend that you dual monitor fire and security signals through one remote monitoring unit.

    Fire Suppression Systems

    • Fire Suppression Systems

      Fire suppression systems are used to extinguish, contain, or in some cases entirely prevent fires from spreading or occurring. They have an incredibly large variety of applications and as such there are many different types of suppression systems for different applications being used today. 


      The three most common types of fire suppression systems are:


      Water 

      A fire suppression system that relies on water is the most common type of system. You can choose from an automatic sprinkler system that turns on whenever it senses smoke, heat, or fire, or a manual sprinkler system that needs to be turned on in order to start working.


      Chemical Agents

      There are several chemical agents that can be used, one of which is Potassium Carbonate, a wet chemical often found in fire extinguishers. There are also a variety of dry chemicals that can be used in fire suppression systems. 


      Inert Gases

      Once a fire starts, it needs a steady supply of oxygen to spread. Inert gases like Argon and purified Nitrogen can be used to ‘choke’ out a fire, cutting off its oxygen supply. A primary benefit of inert gases over water is that the latter can often cause damage to electrical equipment, furniture and property.

    • Commercial Kitchen Suppression Systems

      In a busy catering environment it is necessary to take adequate precautions against fire. In today's commercial kitchens, higher temperature cooking oils and high-efficiency, slow-cooling appliances such as deep-fat fryers have combined to make fire suppression more challenging than ever. Ansul R-102 is the system most food service operators are trusting to meet this need.


      The R-102 system uses tried and tested fusible link technology to quickly detect a fire, it can also simultaneously integrate with any gas valve/ electrical supply to the equipment the fire is detected on. The suppression agent is discharged onto the fire, forming a solid layer of foam, this instantly cuts off the oxygen supply to the fire, suppressing it within 30 seconds- and cooling it. People are protected and surrounding damage is minimised. The kitchen can be cleaned up immediately and the restaurant can resume operation in the shortest possible time. 



      Lightning Safety Systems offers fire suppression system maintenance to the highest degree, to protect your property and save lives. 

    Dry and Wet Risers

    • Dry Riser

      For buildings over 18 metres above ground level, Dry Risers are generally a fire safety requirement. Typically they are used in high-rise buildings and flats and can take away the need for firefighters to run hoses up several floors. Comprising an empty vertical pipe that can be externally connected by firefighters to a pressurised water source, they are capable of distributing water to multiple levels of a building or structure as a component of the fire compression systems.

    • Wet Riser

      Typically installed in high-rise buildings over 50 meters due to the excessive pressures required to pump water to high levels, they can also be installed in buildings below this height where space is limited for a fire engine to get close to a building. They comprise a system intended to supply water to multiple levels or compartments of a building as a component of its fire fighting systems. 

    • Service and Maintenance

      To comply with BS9990, Dry and Wet Risers should be visually inspected every 6 months, with a full test once a year to ensure the system would perform correctly in an emergency. The yearly inspection would include pressure testing of the pipes with water for at least 15 minutes, during which time the pipes are checked for faults or leaks. 


      Dry and Wet Risers are often targets for vandals, so regular servicing and inspection is important in keeping your building safe. 


      Lightning Safety Systems offer testing and maintenance of Dry and Wet Risers to BS9990 standard. 

    Fire Evacuation Alert System

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