Enhancing Student Safety Across the University of Cambridge Estate

Delivering centralised fire alarm monitoring across the University of Cambridge

Who Are the University of Cambridge?

The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s leading academic institutions, supporting a large and diverse community of students, researchers, Fellows, and staff across numerous colleges, departments, and operational buildings throughout Cambridge. The University estate spans multiple sites and properties across the city, requiring a reliable and scalable approach to fire alarm monitoring, life safety management, and compliance reporting.

Overview

Drax Technology partnered with the University of Cambridge to improve safety and operational oversight by implementing a centralised alarm monitoring solution. Using AMX and SmartWatch devices, standalone fire alarm systems across multiple University properties were connected into a single monitoring platform. The solution improved visibility, streamlined reporting processes, and enabled faster responses to fire alarm events across the wider estate.

Their Challenge

The University of Cambridge required a robust solution capable of monitoring fire alarm systems across multiple buildings and operational sites throughout Cambridge. Existing monitoring processes provided limited visibility over standalone fire alarm systems installed across the estate. This reduced the ability to respond quickly to fire events while also creating challenges around evidencing compliance and managing multiple systems with limited resources.

The installation of monitoring hardware across numerous occupied buildings within a busy city environment also introduced logistical and deployment challenges.

The Solution

To address the lack of visibility and monitoring capabilities, SmartWatch devices were installed and connected to Gent Vigilon fire alarm panels across multiple properties. The devices monitored individual buildings for fire and fault conditions and relayed information back to a single AMX monitoring platform. A VLAN was used to integrate the systems with the University’s existing IT network, ensuring seamless communication and reliable monitoring across the estate.

The solution also streamlined fire alarm testing adherence and reporting processes while enabling rapid and appropriate responses to alarm activations.

What Drax Delivered

A centralised fire alarm monitoring solution designed to improve visibility, compliance management, and operational response across multiple University properties.
  • AMX Centralised Monitoring Platform

    Delivered a single platform for monitoring alarm activity across the estate.

  • SmartWatch Device Deployment

    Installed SmartWatch devices across multiple properties connected to Gent Vigilon fire alarm panels.

  • Real-Time Fire & Fault Monitoring

    Enabled immediate visibility of fire and fault conditions across connected buildings.

  • Integrated IT Network Connectivity

    Connected systems through the University’s existing IT network using VLAN integration.

Outcomes

At a Glance

Drax Technology partnered with the University of Cambridge to implement a centralised fire alarm monitoring solution across multiple properties throughout Cambridge. Using AMX and SmartWatch devices integrated through the University’s IT network, the solution improved visibility, streamlined reporting, and enabled faster responses to fire and fault conditions across the estate.

Looking to achieve similar control across your buildings?
See how Drax Technology can support your approach to compliance and operational oversight through real-time visibility, structured reporting, and centralised control across complex estates.

Please complete the reCAPTCHA verification