Smart detectors reduce false alarms in Irish prisons

Siemens has announced the rollout of a new fire safety system across eight facilities operated by the Irish Prison Service (IPS), according to the company.

The implementation includes advanced detection equipment, digital monitoring tools and remote servicing systems designed to reduce false alarms and improve resource efficiency.

The IPS, part of Ireland’s Department of Justice, manages the detention of individuals held on remand, serving sentences or detained for immigration matters.

Siemens said the project included the installation of its Building X Fire Manager platform with cloud-based monitoring and management functions.

The company stated that the upgrade allows prison staff and Siemens engineers to monitor system status remotely, conduct diagnostics without entering restricted areas, and make operational decisions more efficiently.

Digital features improve safety and efficiency

Siemens reported that the newly installed Sinteso detectors were tailored to the specific challenges of custodial environments.

The devices distinguish between real fire signals and misleading triggers such as dust or steam, reducing unnecessary evacuations and disruptions.

The manufacturer added that the detectors also self-test automatically and generate real-time diagnostic data accessible both on-site and remotely.

According to Siemens, these features minimise the need for in-person inspections in restricted areas and support maintenance planning across hard-to-access zones, including high atriums.

In addition to the detector upgrade, Siemens deployed the Sinteso Connect app, enabling authorised prison staff to monitor fire system status from any location and make early decisions during incidents.

Digital logbooks and remote data access support staff

Siemens confirmed that the system now includes a digital eLogbook, automatically recording fire events and maintenance activity with time-stamped entries.

The company said the system reduces administrative burdens and improves access to compliance records for authorised users.

All prison facilities are now connected to Siemens’ Building X platform, which provides a centralised dashboard for live and historical fire system data.

This integration supports the IPS in managing multiple locations from one interface, enabling faster responses and better oversight of long-term system performance.

Operational changes reduce contractor time on site

Siemens explained that the introduction of digital diagnostics and remote monitoring had measurable impacts on day-to-day operations.

Remote fault identification allows engineers to review and prepare for issues in advance, reducing on-site visit times and improving resolution rates.

According to Siemens, the combination of self-testing equipment and remote diagnostics has lowered the need for escorting contractors, a requirement under Health & Safety protocols.

The company reported that a pilot programme demonstrated a saving of 76 escort days, allowing IPS personnel to focus on core security duties while maintaining system oversight.

Siemens stated that these outcomes show how predictive maintenance and remote access contribute to both operational efficiency and safety assurance.

IPS and Siemens reflect on partnership success

Governor of Works for the Irish Prison Service, Rónán Dunning, said: “The integration of new digital systems and services represents not only our commitment to technological excellence but also our dedication to deliver a sustainable, future-proof safety infrastructure across our organisation.”

Joe Walsh, Head of Siemens Smart Infrastructure, summarised the project: “Through our strategic partnership with the Irish Prison Service, we have engineered a holistic fire safety solution that not only addresses their multifaceted requirements and supports the complexities of their operational environment, but one that is also delivering measurable outcomes.”

Siemens installs fire safety solution across Irish prisons: Summary

Siemens has implemented new fire safety systems across eight Irish Prison Service facilities.

The IPS operates under Ireland’s Department of Justice.

The upgrade includes Siemens’ Sinteso detectors and Building X Fire Manager platform.

The detectors identify fire sources and reduce false alarms by ignoring dust and steam.

The system allows for remote diagnostics and live incident monitoring through the Sinteso Connect app.

A digital eLogbook has replaced manual fire event logging.

Authorised staff can access system records from any device.

Building X enables centralised monitoring of all prison sites.

Remote fault identification reduces unnecessary site visits.

Pilot testing showed a saving of 76 contractor escort days.

IPS and Siemens representatives said the project supports operational efficiency and digital safety management.