Project Description: Fire Alarm System Replacement Project
Client:
The Washington Post
Washington, DC
- Size: 10 Story High rise, 500,000 square feet
- Project Type: Fire Alarm System Replacement
- Construction Cost: $500,000
- Fire Alarm Contractor: Alarm Tech Solutions
- Electrical Contractor: Dynalectric
- Services Provided: Electrical Engineering and Construction Management
The Washington Post headquarters building contained a deteriorating hardwired fire alarm system incapable of functioning in accordance with current high rise code requirements. Because of numerous false alarms, the inability to secure parts, and the desire to increase the life safety features of the building, The Washington Post asked Williams Notaro to develop a plan to replace the system with a modern addressable high rise system. Williams Notaro developed a detailed phasing plan to implement a new highrise addressable system with minimal impact on the daily operations of producing the newspaper.
Three phases have been completed including the installation of new head end equipment in a new fire control room, addressable risers up through the building, control equipment on each floor, and complete device coverage on select floors. The remaining phases will concentrate on providing complete device coverage in all areas, interfacing other life safety systems, and removing the old hardwired system.
Williams Notaro's innovative approach to this project, from the initial planning through final testing and acceptance, has provided The Washington Post with a fire alarm system that provides a much greater level of life safety, is easier to maintain, provides greater reliability, and can accommodate future renovations in the facility.
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