Several high-profile fires in recent years have highlighted the importance of fire safety on building sites. In response, governments and regulators around the world are introducing higher safety standards in construction.
A wired fire system can take months to plan and install and, depending on the design of the building, there are often things you need to work around. Even when works get underway, there can be unexpected issues that delay the schedule and increase the cost. These might range from changes to the building that weren’t included in the original plans, to external factors, such as the availability of other contractors and tradespeople, and occupants who wish to remain on site during installation. Wireless fire detection and alarm devices offer a quick, and cost-effective solution to many of these challenges
This has created new market and growth opportunities for wireless fire detection, which is especially suited to the construction industry. The systems are simple to set up and install and can raise alerts in real time, helping to protect lives and assets.
This is the type of niche market that Halma invests in – a regulated sector, offering long-term growth potential, and aligned to Halma’s purpose. In August 2021, Halma acquired Ramtech, a UK-based wireless fire detection business that adds new capabilities to Halma’s portfolio of Safety businesses. Ramtech provides wireless solutions for temporary sites, primarily in construction, as well as in leisure and industrial environments.
Due to the opportunity of growth in our market segment, we were keen to expand geographically, take our business into aligned vertical markets and develop our product portfolio. Joining Halma helps us realise those ambitions and empower more customers to save lives, protect assets and gain insights through our industry-leading innovative wireless solutions.
Andy Hicks, Managing Director, Ramtech
The addition of Ramtech, alongside Argus and Apollo, strengthens Halma’s presence in the fire detection market, and provides opportunities for the companies to collaborate and learn from one another.
