Case Study: External Fire Escape Installation at Hotel De Paris, Cromer, Norfolk

Client: Leisureplex Hotels Ltd
Location: Hotel De Paris, Cromer
Project: Design, Manufacture, and Installation of a New External Fire Escape

Project Overview

The historic Hotel De Paris in Cromer, managed by Leisureplex Hotels Ltd, required a new external fire escape after the previous structure was deemed unsuitable. The primary objectives were to enhance guest safety and ensure compliance with modern building regulations. Wrightfield was selected to design and custom-build the fire escape, adhering to the EN1090 standard to meet both aesthetic and functional demands.

Project Scope and Execution – Survey and Design

Wrightfield initiated the project with a detailed survey of the hotel, assessing the void space allocated for the new fire escape installation. Based on the survey, a 3D model was created to visualize the design, ensuring that every aspect met the client’s expectations and regulatory requirements. This model also allowed for a comprehensive review to address aesthetic, functional, and technical aspects prior to production.

Manufacturing Specifications

Constructed from structural-grade carbon steel, the fire escape was engineered for durability. Key elements included:

Structural carbon steel channels and box sections for stability.
Laser-cut, folded steel profiles.
Non-slip GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) step treads and landings, enhanced with yellow safety bull nosing for added visibility.
Tubular safety handrails to meet regulatory safety standards.
All steel components underwent a hot dip galvanization process to withstand Cromer’s harsh coastal environment.

Delivery and Installation Process

Wrightfield’s engineers removed the existing fire escape in stages, employing advanced lifting equipment to ensure safe disassembly. After removal, the new fire escape was delivered in sections. These sections were lifted through the main hotel stairwell to the void, where they were meticulously assembled and secured. To minimize disruption, the entire process was completed within a narrow timeframe in January 2024, aligning with the hotel’s operational schedule before reopening in February 2024.

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), Set-Up, and Testing

To verify quality and functionality, the fire escape was fully assembled and inspected at Wrightfield’s facility prior to delivery. This pre-delivery inspection (PDI) allowed the team and client to conduct trials and make any necessary adjustments, ensuring all components fit precisely and met safety expectations.

Compliance and Certification

The completed structure adhered to the European CE Machinery Safety Directive and EN1090 Execution Class 2 standards. A Declaration of Conformance was issued, confirming compliance with all relevant legal and safety requirements.

Project Outcome

The custom-designed and manufactured fire escape provides Hotel De Paris with a compliant, safe, and durable solution.

Wrightfield’s attention to detail and commitment to client collaboration were instrumental in delivering a structure that meets modern safety standards while preserving the operational continuity of this historic property.

A PDF case tudy is available to view by clicking on the cover image to your left. This includes more information about the specification, build and installation, plus additional before and after images.