Cherry Tree Primary School
Introduction:
In the summer of 2024, RWB Fire Door Solutions successfully delivered a comprehensive fire safety upgrade at Cherry Tree Hill Primary School, Derby. Following the schools successful CIF bid, RWB were appointed to supply and install a full package of fire doors and screens. This project was delivered over the summer holidays to avoid disruption to the academic teaching year.
Project Challenges
All works had to be completed during the school’s summer shutdown, leaving a fixed and non-negotiable timeframe for installation. The removal of the old window frames and doors had to be done in a meticulous manner to minimise damage to the buildings fabric. The old steel windows were time consuming to safely remove. All works were completed to a high standard and in full compliance with the relevant regulations. RWB complied compressive records of installation and certificates were handed over in a detailed operations and maintenance (O&M) manual to the school and client.
The Process
A detailed survey and pre manufacturing measure took place ordering bespoke pre-hung oak veneered fire doors from a local BM Trada Q-Marked manufacture. At the same time a member of the Guild of Archetectrial Ironmongery (GAI) attended to ensure that the ironmongery was suitable selected and compatible with the new fire doors. During the works - the working areas were fully protected to ensure minimal damage to the flooring and walls that were being retained by the school. A sequential installation methodology was adapted starting at the far end of the school and working back to the entrance. Ongoing rigorous fire door checks and detailed records one installation were maintained, with minimal snagging at the end of the works.
The Results
The successful completion of the project resulted in a significant enhancement of Cherry Tree Academy’s fire safety infrastructure. The seamless execution of the work during the school holiday period ensured zero disruption to the academic calendar, with the school ready to reopen on schedule. Importantly, the upgrade not only ensures compliance with current safety regulations but also provides long-term protection and peace of mind for students, staff, and visitors.
"Our school was built in the 1940s, and as a result, we have lots of old windows and doors, and the school can look quite dated if we're not careful! Over the years, I've tried my very best to make improvements to the school to modernise it and make it a school fit for today's children. However, I soon came to realise that no matter how many carpets I had fitted, no matter how many times I painted the doors and even painted the walls, it was the doors that were actually making the biggest difference! It is not until you get new fire doors placed into in school that you realise the positive difference it truly makes. Overnight, the school has changed. It is a much more modern facility for the children and staff, and as a result, morale has improved and so has productivity. Classrooms and offices are now quieter environments because the doors are sealed tight, improving acoustics, and let's not forget how much safer the building is, knowing that our doors are 100% fire-compliant. The work conducted by RWB Building Solutions has changed our school massively and has made a positive impact. From the moment the contractors arrived on site, to the moment they left, they were friendly, professional and thorough; they had an eye for detail and were able to listen to and respond to our needs. I cannot recommend them more highly. Come and pay us a visit if you don't believe me!"
Paul Appleton - Headteacher at Cherry Tree Hill Primary
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