18 Mar 2013
The Chubb system ensures the safe communication of emergency messages and alarms

A fire alarm and evacuation system has been installed by Chubb Fire & Security at the refurbished Blackburn Market to ensure the safe communication of emergency messages and alarms for visitors and staff. Chubb is a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp.

The covered market forms part of an 8 million investment for the regeneration of the town centre and includes a shopping centre The Mall Blackburn, college redevelopment, the refurbished heritage building, Exchange Arcade, and surrounding public space, Fleming Square. The market stalls have moved from the old Penny Street market, which opened in the 1960s, to the market hall under The Mall with direct access to the centre’s department stores and shops. The space is modern, bright and spacious, but retains a traditional market feel with more than 120 stalls selling locally sourced fresh produce including fish, meat, game, fruit and vegetables.

Electrical engineers Capita Symonds approached Chubb to assist in the design of the system, later M&E Contractor Inviron employed Chubb as the specialist on the project. The design includes a Controlmaster 600, and equipment for voice evacuation. The public address and voice alarm system networks to The Mall, ensuring synchronised messages are spread throughout the centre and market area.

David Carles, senior project manager, Inviron, said he was impressed with the work from the Chubb team, from the project manager to the engineers on site: “We have worked with Chubb on a number of projects in Manchester in the past and have always been very satisfied with the professionalism and knowledge of all employees.”