Overview and requirements

Bader College is the international campus of Queen’s University in East Sussex, England. Based at Herstmonceux Castle, it provides a study abroad environment with small class sizes, close faculty-student interaction, and a strong emphasis on immersive, place-based learning.

The site is a multi-use premises where the existing fire alarm system required an upgrade. The incumbent installation included legacy equipment with obsolete, non-replaceable detection devices, together with ageing MICC (mineral insulated) cabling. These issues were contributing to repeated faults and reduced system reliability.

Following review of the updated Fire Risk Assessment, the required level of fire detection coverage was identified as Category L2 in accordance with BS 5839-1. Category L2 provides Automatic Fire Detection on escape routes, in rooms opening onto escape routes, and in areas identified as presenting higher fire risk. To support an accurate design and compliant certification, the site was fully re-surveyed and re-drawn, ensuring the installation could be designed, documented and handed over with the required certification and supporting documentation.

Key considerations

The project needed to deliver Category L2 coverage and improved reliability, while limiting disruption to the existing building and minimising new containment and cabling routes.

Solution

ECS delivered a compliant LD2 fire detection solution, installed in line with Heritage UK requirements. A Hyfire wireless system was selected to reduce the extent of new cabling and building interventions.

Delivery

ECS completed a detailed survey to finalise device locations and system layout. Wireless signal testing and mapping was carried out to validate coverage and confirm stable communication between devices, translators and expanders before installation.

Outcome

The upgraded system improves reliability and achieves the required coverage across escape routes and identified risk areas. Using wireless technology reduced the need for new cable routes through finishes and sensitive areas, while still allowing devices to be positioned discreetly.

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© ECS Systems 2026