Casuarina Prison: Program of Works 

Our Project experience
Aerial view of Casuarina Prison after Fire Protection Services upgraded site-wide fire detection systems for safety compliance

Overview

Fire Protection Services WA delivered a staged program of works at Casuarina Prison across high-security units, assisted care areas, the infirmary and standard accommodation blocks. The scope included upgrades to fire detection and occupant warning systems, tested interfaces with existing security infrastructure, and carefully sequenced works to maintain operations within a live high-security environment.

Scope of Work

Delivery and upgrade of fire and warning systems across: 
  • High-security cell blocks 
  • Assisted care and specialist management units 
  • Infirmary and medical facilities 
  • Standard accommodation and associated support areas 

Key inclusions: 
  • Upgraded fire detection systems 
  • Enhanced occupant warning coverage 
  • Targeted replacement and extension of field devices and cabling 
  • Interfaces with existing security and control systems 
  • Testing and verification of system performance in occupied zones 

Project Details

Planning and Coordination 

  • Developed staged work plans aligned with prison security protocols and access windows 
  • Coordinated with facility management and security teams to plan works in live operational areas 
  • Structured shutdowns and testing periods to minimise disruption to daily routines and security operations 

Installation 

  • Upgraded and installed detection devices suited to high-security, health care and accommodation environments 
  • Implemented occupant warning improvements to support clear communication and response procedures 
  • Installed and terminated cabling, interfaces and control equipment in coordination with security and building services infrastructure 
  • Confirmed device placement, zoning and coverage in line with current standards and site-specific requirements 

Commissioning 

  • Conducted verification of new and upgraded detection and warning components 
  • Performed functional testing of occupant warning systems in occupied areas under controlled conditions 
  • Verified interfaces with security systems to support coordinated alarm, monitoring and response 
  • Compiled test records and as-built documentation to support approvals and ongoing maintenance 

Challenges and Solutions

Live High-Security Environment

Works were delivered within an operating maximum-security facility. FPSWA applied strict planning, security clearances and escorted access controls, sequencing activities to maintain operational integrity and manage risk.

Multiple Operational Zones

The program covered diverse environments, from high-security units to assisted care and the infirmary. Solutions were tailored to each zone, with zoning, detection coverage and warning strategies aligned to clinical, custodial and safety requirements.

Systems Integration

Existing security, monitoring and control systems required precise interfacing. FPSWA implemented staged integration and joint testing with the facility team to ensure reliable alarm routing, event logging and coordinated response.

Outcome

  • Upgraded detection and occupant warning coverage across high-security, medical and accommodation areas 
  • Verified interfaces with prison security systems to support clear, coordinated emergency response 
  • Works completed in stages to maintain operational continuity, security compliance and controlled risk 
  • Documentation, test results and as-built records provided to support future maintenance and audits 

Client Response

The client reported a positive outcome, noting that FPSWA delivered the works with minimal disruption to daily operations and security procedures. The staged approach, clear communication and thorough testing processes were credited with enabling a smooth implementation and improved confidence in the facility’s life safety systems.