University of Exeter

Challenge

The University of Exeter required fire compartmentation surveys conducting over three of their buildings: Harrison, Physics, and Geoffrey Pope. These buildings, housing vital academic and research spaces, required an in-depth assessment of fire doors, compartmentation, and existing fire stopping works. Sircle were appointed to evaluate existing  fire stopping measures, identify any compartmentation breaches, and inspect fire doors for compliance, recommending any necessary remedial work. Covering over 22,930m , including laboratories and sterile areas, the project required
meticulous planning and execution to ensure all areas were accessed and sufficient surveys could be completed

Solution

Sircle engaged with the university in a series of prestart planning meetings to review the survey scope and methodology, to help ensure careful execution and minimal disruption to operations, especially in sensitive laboratory areas.

Using the university’s fire compartmentation drawings, the survey team validated and noted any changes to the areas in scope, such as the layout and any areas presenting a fire risk. The survey focused on service penetrations, cavity barriers, and fire door compliance, providing the client with schedules of remedial actions and clear recommendations within timebound priorities. It was non-intrusive, with no invasive testing or disruption to building operations, ensuring minimal downtime.

All findings were carefully documented in PDF and Excel formats, providing a clear action plan of the findings, including photos, measurements, risk ratings, and estimated remediation costs.

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