A scalable fire safety solution for a modern auto parts warehouse in Odense

Established in 1962, FTZ Auto Parts in Odense, Denmark, grew so successful over the following decades that their expanding network of warehouses eventually became fragmented and too complex to manage efficiently. Fast forward to 2024 and the company built a state-of-the-art large-scale warehouse next to the nearby E20 motorway.

The new construction is set up for further business growth. It features different halls and a sophisticated floor-to-ceiling rack system which houses diverse auto parts, tools, accessories and materials. There is frequent movement around the premises with employees working with fork-lift and cherry-picker vehicles for storage and collection.

A thriving, active business premises also poses fire hazards – and each premises comes with a unique set of fire safety requirements which need to be addressed. Facilities Manager Morten Lumbye is responsible for safety at the warehouse site. He says, “FTZ needed a fire alarm system that could also reliably detect signs of fire in our high-storage bays, extensive storage halls, automated warehouse areas and offices.”

Morten contacted Peter Mølgaard, a system integrator at El-Team Vest in Horsens in Denmark, to get an assessment of the site and recommendations for a suitable fire detection and alarm system. Peter then involved Jesper Traberg, an expert in Bosch fire safety solutions who was able to demonstrate products suitable for the FTZ applications.

Just six months later, the modern warehouse was also equipped with a modern fire safety system. Linear beam detectors, as well as Bosch aspirating smoke detectors were installed to detect any signs of flames or smoke right up to high ceilings and top bay storage. AVENAR 4000 series optical smoke detectors were fitted in offices, along corridors and other general areas. All detectors are connected to an AVENAR 8000 fire alarm panel and evacuation system by Bosch.

The combined approach to fire safety, customized to the needs of the Odense warehouse has made it a robust and reliable solution. System integrator Peter was pleased with the product recommendations from Jesper, saying, “We commissioned and installed the Bosch system all on time, and in the months since its installation, it has been running well. Our customer is happy.”