Following a recent health and safety audit and subsequent fire risk assessment, it was identified that the club’s existing fire alarm system needed upgrading to provide appropriate protection for the size and layout of the premises.
The committee has responded with a substantial investment in a new wireless Category L2 fire alarm system, incorporating automatic smoke detection and improved emergency warning facilities.
This represents a major improvement to the club’s safety infrastructure and forms part of an ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving our facilities.
What’s Changed?
Members and visitors may already have noticed new fire detection devices installed throughout the club, including the offices and residential accommodation within the Crown Building.
Manual fire alarm call points have also been installed at exits leading outside, making it easier to raise the alarm in an emergency.
The new system is designed to detect potential fires much earlier, allowing people to respond more quickly and helping reduce the risk to life and property.
Importantly, the investment also includes a five-year maintenance contract, helping ensure the system remains properly serviced and maintained.
Protection Beyond Opening Hours
A further improvement is planned, with the system due to be connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC).
Once operational, this will provide monitoring when the club is closed as well as during opening hours, with arrangements for confirmed fire alarms to be reported to the emergency services.
This additional protection will help safeguard not only the people using our facilities but also the buildings and assets themselves.
The new equipment has also been selected with future requirements in mind, allowing the system to be adapted or expanded as necessary.
Further Improvements to Come
The installation of the new fire alarm is an important step in a wider programme of health and safety improvements being undertaken throughout the club.
The next stage will include reviewing and upgrading emergency lighting, exit signage and escape route directions where necessary.
Additional work is also underway to strengthen the club’s fire safety procedures, including:
- Fire safety and fire extinguisher training for staff.
- Fire drills to ensure everyone understands the appropriate emergency procedures.
- Improved record-keeping for fire drills and safety inspections.
- Maintenance and inspection records for fire extinguishers and other safety equipment.
These measures will help ensure that the improvements extend beyond the installation of new equipment and become part of the club’s ongoing approach to safety.
If you happen to be visiting when a fire drill takes place, please follow the instructions provided by our staff. Your cooperation will be appreciated.
Investing in the Club’s Future
This substantial investment represents far more than simply replacing an ageing fire alarm system.
It demonstrates the committee’s commitment to making meaningful, long-term improvements to Chatteris Working Men’s Club, ensuring our facilities remain safe, properly maintained and suitable for the people who use them.
Together with the additional safety measures now being introduced, the new system provides a stronger foundation for the future of the club.
The committee would also like to extend its thanks to Matt Montgomery for the considerable time and effort he has contributed towards bringing these improvements to fruition.
Investing in our facilities today helps secure the future of CWMC for tomorrow.
Update from:
Gareth Johnson
Committee Members