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Keeping historical integrity in mind, BFPE
designed and installed a new fire alarm and air sampling smoke detection system
in several areas of the building. The prime contractor installed the sprinkler piping
throughout the building and BFPE interfaced the tamper and flow
switches into the new addressable fire alarm system.
The building fire alarm system was
installed in tandem with a radio controlled fire alarm system for the rotunda
with a linear heat detection system around the dome. The radio controlled
fire alarm system, installed in the State House, alleviated the need for wiring and
conduit in the high angles. The linear heat detection installed around the dome
provides continuous detection of fire that might be started by sources such as lighting
strikes, chimney embers or electrical malfunctions.
In addition to the planning, coordination
and architectural concerns, a portion of this project was being completed during the
Maryland General Assembly Legislative Session. BFPE had to coordinate
installation and testing during the building's busiest time of use. This was truly a
project for an experienced, motivated fire protection company.
BFPE's team successfully
integrated the various alarm and detection systems and overcame the logistical challenge
to create a comprehensive life safety system. This helped to ensure the continued use and
safety of this historic landmark.
Clean Agent & Smoke Detection
Systems
BFPE was chosen as the
fire protection contractor for the ongoing project to conserve and restore The
Star Spangled Banner at the Smithsonian Museum of American History in Washington,
D.C. The Star Spangled Banner is the flag that flew over Ft. McHenry the
night Francis Scott Key wrote our national anthem. It is a symbol of our nation's
strength, pride and freedom.
Over 180 years of exposure to light, heat
and airborne pollutants have taken its toll on the flag. A conservation project will
preserve the banner and protect it from future damage. The flag will be housed in a
restoration laboratory during the project; future plans include permanent display in a
protective case.
Providing fire protection for this national
treasure presented BFPE with two significant challenges. First, clean
agent fire extinguishing system discharge pressures had to be as low as possible so as not
to damage the flag. Second, the project needed to be completed quickly due to the
restoration project's timeline. To meet this criteria, BFPE installed
an FM-200 clean agent fire extinguishing system with an early warning air sampling smoke
detection system in the restoration laboratory.
BFPE is proud to be part
of the three year project to conserve and restore The Star Spangled Banner.
Fire Extinguishers & Commercial
Hood Systems
Football fans will recognize the PSINet Ravens
Stadium located in downtown Baltimore Maryland. Sports enthusiasts can appreciate
why teamwork played an important role in this project. How important is the first kickoff
of the first game of the season in a new stadium to the fans? What did it take to complete
this project with just on day to spare? TEAMWORK.
BFPE's responsibility
included installation of 19 commercial cooking hood fire suppression systems
which involved electrical detection control panels with battery back-ups;
and installation and inspection of fire extinguishers.
Thanks to excellent teamwork,
the BFPE Operations Department, working within a time schedule that left
no room for error (or penalties in football lingo), joined the fans in celebrating the
opening of the new stadium.
FYI - Washington Redskins
Football Fans - BFPE also installed 29 hood fire suppression systems
in the concession stands at Jack Kent Cooke Stadium. |
