PEC: Installation and Commissioning of Security and Fire Protection Systems

The Client

PEC LLC is a multi-service logistics operator, an expert in integrated solutions and organizing cargo transportation both within Russia and internationally.

Situation

In one of the high-rise warehouse storage areas at PNK Park Shushary 3, the arrangement of racks was changed, which could affect the accessibility of sensors, communication lines, and other elements of the fire alarm system (FAS), as well as the effectiveness of evacuation and the triggering of the emergency notification system in case of an emergency.

Additionally, the increase in fire load in the warehouse required recalculating the room category for explosion and fire hazard.

The problem was critical: the previous fire alarm system design did not match the current warehouse layout, which violated standards under GOST and federal laws regulating fire safety. This posed a threat to the health of personnel, the safety of warehouse products, and could result in serious fines from regulatory authorities.

Tasks

• Relocation of the fire alarm system according to the new rack layout.
• Fire risk calculation considering changes to the space.
• Recalculation of the warehouse category for explosion and fire hazard.
• Ensuring compliance with current regulations, including GOST R 59638-2021 and Federal Laws No. 69-FZ and No. 123-FZ.
• Completion of all tasks within a strict deadline.

Solution

The first stage involved studying the current state of the facility and its documentation. Our team visited the warehouse complex for a visual inspection. During the analysis, it was identified that the previous sensor placement did not align with the new rack layout: a significant number of sensors were outside the direct coverage area in high fire load zones. Additionally, it was noted that additional integrations between the fire alarm system (FAS) and the emergency notification system (ENS) were required.

Based on the inspection and the provided working documentation, a technical plan was developed—an updated diagram for sensor placement and a list of necessary equipment.

We conducted fire risk calculations based on the following criteria: room area and its division into compartments, type of flammable materials stored, distance between racks, evacuation routes, and exits.

The results showed that the fire spread risk in case of a fire could increase by 23%, requiring immediate action.

We also recalculated the category of the warehouse for explosion and fire hazard, considering the new fire load (in this case, cardboard and flammable packaging materials). The facility was classified as category "B1," which required compliance with specific standards during the FAS upgrade.

During the design phase, our engineers developed working documentation that took the new warehouse layout into account (including the elimination of "dead zones") and provided integration of FAS with ENS, access control systems, and other engineering systems in the building.

The installation involved relocating 48 sensor points, upgrading the communication line, and installing additional detectors in previously uncovered areas. For high-rise work, we used Haulotte lifts.

After installation, system testing was conducted using Fluke instruments, including multimeters and ammeters.

The project used materials and equipment certified according to GOST requirements:

• Fire alarm central unit – Honeywell Esser.
• Sensors – Apollo (including optical-smoke detectors).
• Cable and wiring products from Kamkabel.

The main challenge was the tight project timeline while the warehouse was in active use. To speed up the process, installation and fire risk calculations were performed simultaneously. We also had to account for the high load on the warehouse’s high-rise equipment, which required enhanced safety measures for our team.

Results

• The level of fire risk was reduced by 32% compared to the initial calculations.
• The fire alarm system fully complies with GOST and federal standards.
• The interaction efficiency of FAS, ENS, and engineering systems increased by 18%.
• The time for evacuation and activation of notification systems was reduced by 12 seconds.

The client not only improved the safety level at the warehouse but also:

• Reduced insurance costs for the facility by 15% after recalculating the room category.
• Simplified FAS integration with other systems through the use of open protocol standards (BACnet).
• Improved reputation with regulatory authorities, receiving approval without additional requirements.

The project's successful implementation demonstrated the high qualifications of our team and helped the client avoid costly risks related to warehouse safety.