Overview & Objectives Ambrey Baker was appointed as principal contractor for a full strip-out and rebuild of an existing processing space at Holme Farm. The...
Executing Critical Fire Separation Works Within a Live Pharmaceuticals Facility
Overview & Objectives
This project involved the specification and installation of a 4-hour fire-rated internal wall within a live, fully operational pharmaceuticals warehouse. Delivered by Ambrey Baker, the works demanded an exceptionally high standard of cleanliness, precision, and quality, reflecting the stringent operational and compliance requirements of the pharmaceutical sector.
The client required the creation of a fully compliant fire compartmentation solution without disrupting daily warehouse operations, stock integrity, or environmental controls. The primary objectives were:
- To install a certified 4-hour fire wall providing robust compartmentation within an operational pharmaceutical environment.
- To maintain ultra-clean working conditions aligned with pharmaceutical hygiene standards.
- To complete the works within a tightly controlled programme while minimising operational disruption.
Through detailed planning, close coordination with the client’s operational teams, and disciplined site management, Ambrey Baker successfully delivered a critical life safety upgrade within a challenging live environment.
Scope of Works
Fire Compartmentation Works
- Specification and installation of a 4-hour fire-rated wall system, fully compliant with relevant fire safety and building regulations.
- Integration of fire-rated detailing at junctions, penetrations, and interfaces to ensure continuity of fire resistance.
- Installation carried out with strict adherence to manufacturer specifications and third-party certification requirements.
Live Environment Working
- Works undertaken within an active pharmaceuticals warehouse, requiring careful sequencing and segregation.
- Temporary protection measures installed to safeguard stored products, racking, and operational routes.
- Strict dust, debris, and contamination controls implemented throughout the programme.
High-Quality Internal Finishes
- Clean, durable internal finishes suitable for a pharmaceutical environment.
- Precision installation to achieve tight tolerances and a high-quality visual finish.
- Coordination with existing doors, services, and access points to maintain operational functionality.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Enhanced site controls to protect warehouse staff and maintain safe access routes.
- Continuous monitoring of cleanliness and housekeeping standards.
- Full compliance with site-specific pharmaceutical protocols and fire safety requirements.



Challenges & Solutions
Working Within a Live Pharmaceuticals Facility
Challenge: The warehouse remained fully operational throughout the works, with zero tolerance for contamination or disruption.
Solution: Ambrey Baker implemented phased working, physical segregation, and enhanced cleaning regimes to maintain operational continuity and hygiene standards at all times.
Achieving Ultra-Clean Standards
Challenge: Pharmaceutical environments demand a level of cleanliness significantly above typical industrial projects.
Solution: The team adopted meticulous housekeeping procedures, controlled material handling, and daily cleaning checks to ensure a consistently clean working environment.
Delivering a Critical Fire Safety Upgrade on a Short Programme
Challenge: The client required the fire wall installed within a tight three-week programme.
Solution: Detailed pre-planning, experienced site management, and efficient coordination of trades enabled successful delivery within programme without compromising quality or compliance.
Outcome
Ambrey Baker Construction delivered a high-quality, fully compliant 4-hour fire compartmentation solution within a live pharmaceuticals warehouse, meeting both life safety and operational requirements. The project was completed on time, to exacting standards, and with minimal disruption to the client’s day-to-day operations.
This project demonstrates Ambrey Baker’s capability to operate confidently within highly regulated environments, delivering complex fire safety and internal construction works with precision, cleanliness, and professionalism. Top of Form
RESOLVE COMPLEX INDUSTRIAL DESIGN OR CONSTRUCTION CHALLENGES WITH CONFIDENCE.
For a no obligation initial consultation with one of the UK’s leading industrial construction and technical advisory experts, contact us today to gain clear, practical guidance on critical technical, engineering, and construction issues.
Paul Waldeck BEng(Hons), CEng., MICE., MIStruct.E, MIMech.E., MASHRAE,
Related Case Studies


Overview & Objectives Project Parrot was a large-scale industrial transformation project undertaken by Ambrey Baker Construction, repurposing an aging warehouse into a modern, high-tech food...

Project Background Different Dog is an innovative pet food company based in Telford, focused on delivering freshly cooked, all natural pet food. With rapid growth...
