If you’re an M&E designer, main contractor, or part of a design & build team, you’ll already know how many moving parts go into a modern commercial building. But one area that still causes unnecessary complexity — and unnecessary cost — is splitting fire and security systems into separate, disconnected packages.

While many providers still list each system individually, the reality on today’s projects is simple:

Integration matters.
It streamlines installation, improves safety and security, reduces maintenance, and makes life easier for the end user.

Here’s what contractors need to know when planning integrated fire & security systems.

Why integration matters on modern projects

Commercial buildings now rely on multiple layers of protection: fire detection, intruder alarms, CCTV, access control, emergency lighting and more. When these systems are designed together instead of in silos, you get:

✔ Fewer boxes on the wall

Integrated panels and shared devices reduce clutter, equipment costs, and wall damage late in the programme.

✔ Better incident response

Events in one system can trigger actions in another — for example:

• A fire alarm can automatically release doors
• CCTV can jump to zones affected by an alarm
• Access control can initiate lockdown modes

✔ Easier maintenance

One provider means one set of documentation, one service schedule, and a clearer understanding of system interactions.

Typical systems to consider together

When designing for integration, the key systems to coordinate from the start are:

• Fire detection & alarm systems
• Intruder alarms
• CCTV systems
• Access control
• Emergency lighting
• (Optional but increasingly common) Remote monitoring and building management interfaces

Treating these as a single package leads to a more efficient install and a more intuitive user experience.

Design considerations at RIBA Stage 2–3

The earlier you plan integration, the fewer surprises you’ll face later.

Cable containment

Integrated systems can share containment routes — but only if designed early, avoiding overcrowding or retrofits.

Space for panels and racks

A dedicated riser or comms room must allow for:

• Fire alarm control panels
• Access control panels
• CCTV recorders/NVRs
• Power supplies and battery back-up

Power & comms

Coordinated planning prevents clashes with electrical distribution, structured cabling, and ICT networks.

Early design coordination reduces RFIs and late rework — two of the biggest pain points for contractors.

Avoiding clashes with other trades

Fire & security systems interact with almost every other contractor on-site. Poor coordination leads to delays, re-routing, or even redesign.

Key clash points include:

• HVAC
  Ductwork interfering with detector placement or camera sightlines.
• Doors & frames
  Late hardware changes affecting access control.
• Ceilings
  Bulkheads, lighting layouts, and ceiling void restrictions.
• IT / networking
  Switch locations, IP addressing, and bandwidth considerations.

Clear, early communication ensures each trade knows what’s required to keep the programme moving.

Commissioning & testing integrated systems

Integrated systems require integrated testing.

Key commissioning steps include:

• Witness testing with main contractor and end user
• Cause & effect testing (e.g., door release, camera activation, emergency lighting response)
• Scenario simulations to show how systems interact
• Full documentation, including O&M manuals, as-fitted drawings, and user training

A well-run commissioning process prevents late-stage failures and ensures all systems behave as intended in real-world conditions.

What good looks like for contractors

When fire and security are truly integrated, contractors benefit from:

One co-ordinated programme

No chasing three or four different specialists.

One set of drawings

Clear, consistent layouts that reduce clashes and delays.

One responsible specialist

Design, installation and commissioning delivered under one roof — with one point of accountability.

It’s cleaner, faster, and easier for everyone from QS to FM.

SR Fire & Security’s approach

We make integration straightforward by delivering everything through one team:

✓ One team for design, installation, commissioning & maintenance

No fragmentation. No miscommunication. No risk of systems that don’t talk to each other.

✓ Integrated layouts and early-stage design support

We work with contractors from RIBA Stage 2 onwards to avoid rework and programme disruption.

✓ Smooth commissioning & handover

Scenario testing, training sessions, and clear documentation ensure the end user inherits a system that works exactly as expected.

Commercial buildings run better — and projects run smoother — when fire & security systems are designed as one.

Working on a new build or major refurb?

Send us your drawings and we’ll review and mark up a combined fire & security layout to help de-risk coordination before site.