IN FOCUS


Targeted Fire Alerts with ESPA Paging: A Smarter Safety Solution for Southampton


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he University of Southampton, a multi-campus estate with a leading research institution, has recently enhanced its fire safety provision for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals through a pioneering paging system installation.


Advanced’s MxPro 5 fire panels, integrated with the ESPA Pager Interface, form the core of the new solution delivered by Premier Fire Security and Scope Communications, providing targeted alerts and improved accessibility across the university. With over 200 Advanced panels deployed across the site, including two networks of 30–40 nodes


and a growing number of extinguishing panels, the university required a solution that could deliver precise, location-specific fire alerts to individuals without relying on traditional audio alarms. The ESPA 4.4.4-compliant Pager Interface from Advanced provided the ideal bridge between the fire detection system and Scope’s PageTek Pro Mk2 transmitter and EPOCBLUM pagers. The system is configured so that each building or group of buildings triggers a distinct pager


address. This ensures that only relevant alerts reach the end user, reducing confusion and improving response times. Users can manually program their pagers to activate or deactivate specific locations, with password protection for added security. For nighttime safety, Scope’s pillow pad and nightstand accessories ensure that alerts are received even while users are asleep. Chris Chance, University of Southampton Contract Manager at Premier Fire Security, explained:


“We’ve worked closely with Scope and Advanced to create a system that’s not only reliable but incredibly flexible. The ability to configure pagers for any location means we can reduce hardware stock and improve coverage across the entire campus. It’s a huge step forward in inclusive safety.” The installation also includes a dedicated paging group for engineers, janitors, security, and fire


marshals, who receive diagnostic and fault messages from the Advanced network. This group can also trigger fire messages for specific locations, enhancing operational control and coordination. Rob Baker, Head of Technical Support at Scope Communications, added: “This project demonstrates


how powerful the ESPA interface can be when paired with our paging technology. The system ensures that alerts are both accurate and accessible, and we’re proud to support Premier Fire Security in expanding this solution across the university.” The long-term vision is to roll out the paging system to all student halls, allowing pagers to be


reconfigured for use anywhere on campus. This approach not only improves safety but streamlines inventory and reduces costs. Salvy Vittozzi, Regional Sales Manager for the South East at Advanced, commented: “This installation


is a great example of how our ESPA Pager Interface can be used to deliver tailored fire alerts in complex environments. It’s rewarding to see our technology helping to make campuses safer and more inclusive for all users.” By combining Advanced’s robust fire panel technology with Scope’s innovative paging solutions, the


University of Southampton now benefits from a highly adaptable, inclusive fire safety system, one that’s already being expanded to meet the evolving needs of its diverse community. As a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced


products are specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. The Advanced portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and reduction systems as well as emergency lighting. Advanced is owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC – a global group of life-saving technology


companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day. For further information on Advanced: Tel: 0345 894 7000 or visit or website.


www.advancedco.com


Hitachi Cooling & Heating brand unveils new generation airHome 800 HeatForce AC for year-round comfort


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ew wall-mounted system delivers high performance, refined design, and reliable heating down to –15°C Saint-Priest, France – Hitachi Cooling & Heating brand is proud to announce the launch of


its new generation of wall-mounted air-conditioning systems, airHome 800 HeatForce. Designed for modern residential living and available in both single- and multi-split configurations, the upgraded range combines contemporary styling with exceptional efficiency and advanced air-quality technologies.


High efficiency, even at extreme cold Operating with low-GWP R32 refrigerant and available in capacities from 2.5 to 5kW, airHome 800 HeatForce delivers reliable heating and cooling performance while helping households reduce energy bills. Rated A+++ for both heating and cooling, it achieves a SEER of up to 9.50 and a SCOP of up to 5.20. Engineered for harsh winter conditions, the latest airHome 800 HeatForce models maintain


dependable heating output in temperatures as low as –15°C, thanks to Constant Power technology. The system continues operating even at –20°C, ensuring comfort and peace of mind throughout the coldest months.


Refined design and enhanced indoor air quality The new airHome 800 features an elegant design, available in brilliant white and sophisticated grey, crafted to blend seamlessly with contemporary interiors.


While its appearance has been modernised, the system maintains advanced air-treatment features


that have long distinguished the Hitachi Cooling & Heating brand. Equipped with FrostWash™ technology, the unit keeps its heat exchanger clean through a three-stage


cycle of heating, frosting and defrosting. The AQtiv-Ionioniser disperses negative ions to help eliminate pollutants, while the integrated antivirus filter and Mold Guard function work together to maintain healthier indoor air by reducing the risk of mould build-up in humid conditions. FrostWash™ technology is also applied to the outdoor unit, while the DuraSpin function reverses the


fan’s rotation in cooling mode to remove accumulated dust. Indoors, comfort is further improved with ultra-low noise levels from 21 dB(A)1, wide airflow


coverage and an integrated motion detector that adjusts temperature and power according to room occupancy.


Smart control made simple With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, users can manage their airHome 800 system remotely via the airCloud Go app on smartphone, tablet or PC. The system is fully compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, enabling effortless voice control. A smart geofencing function ensures the unit adapts automatically to the user’s location, while the supplied LED-backlit remote control provides quick access to all core settings, including temperature, fan speed, operating mode and airflow direction.


www.bosch-homecomfortgroup.com Read the latest at: www.bsee.co.uk BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER JANUARY 2026 25


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