Dagenham Flats

United Living, the main contractor and developer for the project, was tasked with upgrading seven apartment blocks in Dagenham, East London, for the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham. The blocks, originally built in the 1970s, housed a diverse range of residents, including families and the elderly. The existing smoke ventilation system was outdated and insufficient, posing significant risks in the event of a fire. The challenge was to provide suitable smoke control products for retrofitting a modern smoke ventilation system that met stringent safety standards while minimising disruption to residents during the refurbishment.

Sertus designed and manufactured custom Façade Louvre Blade (Glass) smoke ventilation products tailored to the specific needs of the Dagenham Flats project. These louvre blades were chosen for their ability to exhaust smoke and heat effectively, keeping stairwells and communal corridors free from smoke during an emergency. 

Key features of the Façade Louvre Blade (FLB-RG) include: 

• High Weather Resistance and Durability: The louvres are built to withstand high wind loads and severe weather conditions, ensuring long-term reliability in exposed environments. 
• Acoustic Insulation: The louvres are equipped with sound-reducing properties, with insulation up to 40dB RW, maintaining a quiet and comfortable living environment for residents. 
• Energy Efficiency: The 24V DC actuators consume minimal energy during operation, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the building. 
• Safety Features: The louvres are designed with an anti-trapping actuator to prevent injuries, and they do not create a fall hazard when open, ensuring the safety of all residents. 

The FLB-RG units were integrated into the existing window frames, and Sertus provided full wiring schematics to facilitate a smooth installation process by the project team. The louvres’ thermally broken aluminium framework ensured optimal thermal performance, while the range of glazing options allowed for a perfect balance between safety, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. 

• Enhanced Safety: The FLB-RG louvres, certified to BS EN12101-2, significantly improved the safety of escape routes by keeping them clear of smoke and heat during emergencies. 
• Minimal Disruption: The hassle-free integration of the louvres into the existing infrastructure allowed the refurbishment to proceed with minimal disruption to residents. 
• Improved Comfort: The installation of these louvres not only enhanced fire safety but also introduced more natural light, increased ventilation, and reduced energy costs, thereby improving the overall quality of life for residents. 
• Long-Term Durability: The louvres' high resistance to weather and wind load, combined with their energy-efficient operation, ensured the long-term durability and reliability of the system.