Fire Protection for Mall in Polokwane

Fire Protection System Upgrade for a Large Retail Mall in Polokwane

Description of Project

Elite Fire was informed of a tender process for a fire sprinkler system upgrade in December 2021. In February 2022, we were awarded the tender after submitting the documents in a timely manner, together with competitive pricing. 

The mall is older, and an upgrade was required to ensure the safety and efficacy of the fire equipment to protect the mall, its tenants, and shoppers.

Once completed, the centre will have a full operational fire protection system to limit the risk of malfunction and damage of any future fires.

ProjectFire Protection Systems
Size12 263m2
Year of Completion2022
ScopeSupply, Manufacture & Installation of Fire Protection
DisciplineFire Protection
Diesel Fire Pump

Project Scope

The supply, manufacture, delivery, co-ordination, installation, commissioning and handing over of a fully operational system including O&M maintenance manuals and subsequent 1 years Maintenance and Guarantee for the following:

  • Fire Protection Diesel Driven Pump for the Automatic Sprinkler Installation and Site Fire Hydrants.
  • Associated Pipework in and around the tank and pumps including Tank delivery line, valves, etc. to the Existing Installation Control Valve (ICV) and Fire Hydrants.
  • Associated Pipework from the Existing Water Connection to the Tank Infill including tank infill valve.
  • Replacement of all sprinkler heads throughout the mall.

All installations and connecting pipework are required as per the drawing supplied, and ASIB rules where applicable.

Process Outline

As with our May 2022 case study in Mpumalanga, this mall also had water supplies coming from town’s main. Due to the flow and pressure demand, the town’s main is inadequate to meet the minimum requirements as per hydraulic calculations and therefore water supplies are to be installed.

There is new installation of pipework from the pumphouse to underside the existing sprinkler control valve and hydrant system.

Sprinkler heads are being replaced, approximately 2200, throughout the entire mall as they have aged through the years. The 2200 sprinklers consist of conventional and pendent sprinklers.

Challenges

Working in the tenant shops proved to be a challenge during working hours. We had to however proceed as there was no other way forward, and keep tenants informed of our program plans.