Safety in recycling
A state-of-the-art solution by installing thermal cameras capable of real-time temperature monitoring across a large section of Derwen’s processing area.
About Derwen
Derwen Group is a leading provider of sustainable, environmentally responsible waste management solutions in the UK. Specialising in recycling, waste transfer, and aggregate production, Derwen is committed to reducing environmental impact while delivering top-tier services to its clients. With cutting-edge facilities and a focus on innovation, Derwen continues to set the standard in the waste management sector. However, their operations face unique safety challenges, particularly in relation to fires caused by lithium-ion batteries at their waste transfer stations.
Services used:
Perimeter Security
Thermal Imaging
Work Safety
Industry: Recycling and waste management solutions
Location: South Wales
Client since: 2009
The obstacle
Lithium-ion batteries pose a serious fire risk in waste transfer stations, as they can ignite without the need for oxygen, creating a potentially devastating scenario. Traditional fire suppression systems are often ineffective at dealing with these types of fires, and conventional detection methods—such as ceiling-mounted smoke detectors—are frequently unsuitable for these environments. The high levels of dust and debris present in waste stations can cause these detectors to become faulty, reducing their reliability.
A further challenge is the issue of “thermal stack rise”, where heat builds up in waste piles due to composting, moisture, and other factors. Smoke detectors, however, often respond too late to these rising temperatures. To avoid the risk of overheating, waste piles are regularly turned over as a precautionary measure—an inefficient process that consumes both time and money. Derwen needed a more proactive and precise solution to manage these risks and safeguard their facilities.
The solution
PC1 provided a state-of-the-art solution by installing thermal cameras capable of real-time temperature monitoring across a large section of Derwen’s processing area. These cameras, coupled with advanced AI software algorithms, can detect even slight temperature fluctuations and monitor the rate of increase. Drawing on industry expertise and in-depth testing, PC1 developed an early warning system that identifies pre-combustion temperature levels and sudden rises in heat.
The system operates continuously, sending alerts to the monitoring and site staff during working hours, and transferring the responsibility of monitoring to PC1 outside of these times. Importantly, the system integrates seamlessly with Derwen’s existing CCTV infrastructure, which includes advanced alert and movement threshold settings. This allows site personnel to click on any area within the camera’s view and examine the precise temperature.
The system is equipped with two distinct temperature alerts: one for early warnings of potential hazards and another for more urgent situations. By combining thermal monitoring with high-spec CCTV, Derwen is able to maintain full oversight of its operations and respond quickly to any fire risks that arise.
The results
PC1’s thermal monitoring and early fire detection system has provided Derwen with comprehensive and highly accurate temperature surveillance. The solution includes Early Fire Detection (EFD), which takes into account the movement of vehicles and machinery, ensuring that the system remains reliable even in a busy working environment.
With this innovative system, Derwen now has peace of mind. The company can closely monitor high-risk areas, meet all insurance requirements, and take swift action when necessary. The solution has also proven cost-effective by reducing the need for manual pile turning. PC1 supplies cameras that meet stringent safety and cybersecurity standards, including military-grade and NIST2 compliance, offering Derwen a robust and future-proof fire detection system.
Does This Sound Like You?
AT PC1, we take pride at looking at your individual problems and building custom solutions that fit your security needs, whilst remaining scalable and reliable. Get peace of mind that your premises is secure, whether you are there or not. Get in touch with us today to get started.
