Preserving History, Preventing Tragedy: Fire Safety in Heritage Building Refurbishments
Europe’s rich and varied history is not only preserved in textbooks, it's also told through the multiple historic buildings that are still standing all over the continent. Churches, castles, Roman villas are priceless structures that hold a wealth of culture within the confines of their walls. Preserving these historic buildings is paramount, especially as time chips away at the integrity of these heritage sites.
The challenges of preserving Heritage buildings
Refurbishment work is necessary to preserve any building, however, contrary to most modern developments, refurbishing historical sites comes with its own set of challenges and regulations. According to an article published by the European Commission: “While specific definitions may vary between member states, there are the following common principles and criteria outlined in EU directives and conventions: Cultural Significance, Age, Protected Status, Architectural and Artistic Value, Intangible Heritage, and Public Interest.”
Along with the aforementioned common principles, it’s important to also consider the individual characteristics of each building and the specific challenges they may come with. The biggest risk associated with refurbishing Heritage buildings is that of a fire breaking out on site, especially when left unattended. Refurbishing historic structures can be a long process, increasing the risk of fires. This is why installing a temporary fire alarm system, such as Ramtech’s WES3 system, can be an ideal solution for these sorts of projects.
The advantages of wireless fire protection systems
Ramtech specialises in temporary wireless fire protection systems, ideal for construction sites and refurbishment projects. WES3, designed specifically for the construction industry, incorporates market-leading features such as dust-resistant smoke detection and the advanced CONNECT wireless control system (exclusive to WES3). In addition to the WES3 system, Ramtech provides a comprehensive range of fire safety accessories tailored for construction sites, including site fire safety trolleys and emergency signage.
WES3 offers an ideal solution for refurbishing heritage buildings, combining advanced fire safety technology with minimal intrusion to preserve the integrity of historic structures. Its wireless design eliminates the need for extensive cabling, reducing damage to delicate walls, ceilings, and architectural features. The dust-resistant smoke detection ensures reliable performance in environments where construction or restoration work generates debris, while the innovative CONNECT wireless control system allows for seamless monitoring and control. By providing a fully EN54-25 compliant temporary fire alarm system, WES3 ensures the highest safety standards are met during refurbishment, protecting both the building and its workers without compromising the building’s historical value.
There are more than 50 officially recognised Heritage buildings in France alone. These structures are valuable pieces of history that must be preserved. By embracing the power of wireless technology and installing Ramtech’s temporary fire alarm system, Heritage buildings in France and all around Europe can benefit from the highest level of protection.