Project Overview

Professional Systems Engineering, LLC (PSE) having over 35 years engineering experience in smoke detection, smoke control systems, and life safety code requirements (national, state, and local requirements), was selected by the Sheriff’s Office of Travis County to design smoke detection for each cell to meet jail standards test requirements this was no small talk as the detection and evacuation process must start in 60 seconds or less.

The Travis County Jail (TCJ) was opened to house 286 pre-trial detainees. They have recently upgraded their facility’s smoke evacuation system to be in compliance with state codes and standards. PSE was commissioned to provide engineering and consulting services to design a smoke detection system with control logic to control the smoke evacuation system and meet stringent state code requirements.

The following is a summary of PSE’s scope of services provided for this project:
  • Survey the existing conditions that would affect the project
  • Recommend and pre-test the solution to assure adequate smoke detection coverage in each cell
  • Test all systems prior to design, and provide mock-up tests to verify the detection system will function properly before detailed designs
  • Provide all Design Development and Construction documentation to ensure the Contractor complies with all these standards
  • Provide test procedures to verify system meets code
  • Provide full Construction Administrative Services including shop drawing review, site visits and progress meetings, final acceptance testing and closeout documentation as per contract requirements
  • Evaluate and participate in its acceptance by jail standards