Fire safety is under greater scrutiny than ever, particularly in high-rise and multi-occupancy buildings where defects in cladding or compartmentation have been identified. In these cases, one of the most effective interim measures to safeguard residents is a Waking Watch. This approach, endorsed by government and fire authorities, provides vital human presence on-site until long-term solutions are complete.
At Videcon, we understand the pressure fire installers face: cost constraints, regulatory scrutiny, and risks to residents, as well as the urgent need to balance these with safety and compliance. In this article, we explain what Waking Watch is and explore how Videcon can support you with practical, reliable solutions and expertise.
What is Waking Watch?
Waking Watch is designed to keep occupants safe in a building where fire risks have been identified, often due to defects such as unsafe cladding or issues with fire alarms. It acts as a temporary safeguard, ensuring that occupants can remain in buildings while permanent fire safety solutions are being implemented.
“Waking Watch is intended to be a short-term measure, where suitably trained staff patrolling all floors and the exterior of the building to detect a fire, raise the alarm and initiate evacuation". GOV.UK
Instead of relying solely on automated systems, Waking Watch ensures a human presence on-site. Trained wardens conduct regular patrols of every floor and the building’s exterior, watching for early signs of smoke, fire or potential hazards.
How A Waking Watch Operates
- Continuous Patrols: Fire marshals conduct regular checks across the building, covering internal areas and external facades.
- Immediate Response: If smoke or fire is detected, the warden raises the alarm without delay, notifying residents and the fire service.
- Evacuation Support: Wardens assist in guiding residents out of the building safely to assembly points.
- Log Keeping: Detailed records are maintained to evidence patrols, checks, and any incidents.
Supporting Fire Installers in Waking Watch Projects
Fire installers play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and compliance of residential buildings under Waking Watch arrangements. Their expertise is crucial in assessing fire risks, implementing, and supporting the transition to permanent fire safety solutions.
Government Support & Funding Opportunities
The UK government recognises the importance of replacing Waking Watch measures with more suitable solutions. The Waking Watch Replacement Fund 2023 was introduced to support the installation of more robust alarm and fire safety systems in high-rise buildings currently relying on Waking Watch. This initiative aims to reduce costs for leaseholders currently relying on Waking Watch.
Moreover, the fund extends financial support to more buildings and is aligned with guidance published by the National Fire Chiefs’ Council on buildings that change from a ‘Stay Put’ to a ‘Simultaneous Evacuation’ fire safety strategy.
- Eligibility: Available to residential buildings in England with existing Waking Watch measures, regardless of the costs incurred by leaseholders.
- Funding Purpose: Covers the upfront capital costs of installing a common fire alarm system, designed in accordance with BS 5839-1 for a Category L5 system, as recommended by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC).
- Application Process: Open for new applications on 2nd September 2024, with a closing date of for applications has now been extended to 31st March 2026.
Opportunities for Fire Installers
Fire installers are integral to the success of the Waking Watch Replacement projects. Their responsibilities may include:
- System Design and Installation: Designing and installing compliant fire alarm systems that meet the specifications outlined in the funding guidance.
- Collaboration with Building Owners: Working closely with building owners and managing agents to ensure the timely and efficient implementation of fire safety measures.
- Compliance Assurance: Ensuring all installations adhere to the relevant British Standards and regulatory requirements.
By engaging in these projects, fire installers not only contribute to enhanced fire safety but also position themselves as trusted partners in the building safety sector.
Videcon’s Support
For these types of projects, installers don’t only require knowledge of compliance and safety measures. They also require the right tools, a trusted brand and ongoing support to deliver solutions confidently.
That’s where Videcon comes in.
Access to Leading Fire & Security Brands
At Videcon, fire safety is at the heart of what we do. That is why we offer an extensive range of fire safety, monitoring, alarm and communication products. Our advanced fire detection and alarm systems are designed to deliver a fast, reliable response in any environment.
From smoke and heat detectors to sophisticated alarm panels, we supply solutions from trusted manufacturers including Apollo, Advanced, C-Tec, Hochiki, Eaton and many more, all meeting the highest standards of safety and compliance.
Technical Support
UK-based Technical Support to answer installation questions, sizing, and compatibility queries and to help prepare clear, compliant quotes for customers.
Dedicated Account Managers
We help fire installers find the right solution for each project, advising on the most suitable fire detection alarm and monitoring systems to meet the needs of the building and ensure compliance.
Conclusion
Waking Watch is a vital interim fire safety measure, and fire installers are key to replacing it with permanent, compliant alarm systems under the Waking Watch Replacement Fund. Their expertise ensures that new systems are installed safely, meet standards, and protect residents effectively.
Videcon supports installers with trusted fire and monitoring brands, UK-based technical advice and guidance to select the right solutions for each project. We help installers deliver compliant, reliable systems while making the transition from Waking Watch to permanent fire safety seamless.
Contact Videcon today to get support on your next Waking Watch Replacement project.