The Chedi Andermatt

The Chedi Andermatt – or "Chedi" for short – was ceremoniously opened at the end of 2013. Last year, the five-star deluxe hotel received the GaultMillau Hotel of the Year 2017 award. What were the decisive reasons for this gastronomic accolade? The jury was particularly impressed by the unique architecture, the enticing Asian cuisine, the spa with a 35-metre pool and the 18-hole golf course right on the doorstep. Yes, these are definitely powerful arguments. But the "Chedi" has a lot more to offer. A lot that you don't actually see at first glance. Like, for example, the numerous silent "security guards" in the background: the fire alarm systems in the "Chedi".

"In our hotel, we not only attach very great importance to an exclusive ambience and exceptional design; the safety technology must also meet the highest requirements in order to ensure a good feeling at all times", says Christian Simmen, Director of Engineering at The Chedi Andermatt. Michele Waldeck, Head of Security, was responsible for installing the security systems with his team. "We installed high-quality products and everything is running smoothly. In the event of an emergency, the safety of hotel guests and employees is guaranteed," explains Waldeck.

But what security technology is actually used in the "Chedi"? As a result of different requirements within the five-star deluxe hotel, Bouygues Energies & Services installed a variety of fire detector types: from manual fire alarms and multi-sensor alarms to multifunctional fire alarms with integrated alarm transmitters. To explain it briefly: We are all familiar with manual fire alarms. These are the ones where you break the glass in an emergency, press the button and therefore alert the fire brigade. A multi-sensor detector has several so-called detection sensors. Specifically: In the "Chedi", multi-sensor detectors are used that perceive optical and thermal changes in their environment. This enables such a fire detector to, for example, distinguish smoke particles from other disturbances such as water vapour - as a result of extensive showering - or vehicle exhaust fumes. A big advantage: fewer false alarms.

If a source of danger is detected, the fire detector sounds the alarm. The question is: how does it do this? The security specialists from Bouygues Energies & Services installed multifunctional IQ8Quad fire detectors in the "Chedi". And what makes this model so special? It's simple: It is the only fire detector in the world that combines three different alarm functions when a hazardous situation is "detected" - as it is known in technical jargon. It has a visual alarm function via a flashing light, an acoustic one via a warning buzzer, and a multilingual voice alarm. Experience shows that people react less well to abstract alarm tones or purely visual signals in an emergency, but act more quickly with clear voice instructions. Instructions can be programmed in five different languages, ideal for a luxury hotel with an international clientèle like the "Chedi".

"Chedi" is the Thai term for temple - a place that stands for tranquillity and grandeur. The "Chedi" is a successful blend of tradition and modernity, built in Andermatt, a town with 1400 inhabitants in the canton of Uri. Andermatt lies 1447 metres above sea level at the foot of the Gotthard Pass. The five-star deluxe hotel offers its guests 123 elegant rooms and suites, four excellent restaurants and bars, a modern health club and a wellness oasis over 2400 square metres. The Chedi Andermatt was designed by star architect Jean-Michel Gathy.