Following the acquisition of Marlowe Fire and Security, Mitie is enhancing its technical services offering through the introduction of lower carbon, more efficient fire safety solutions. Within Marlowe’s sprinkler division, a transition to electric dry riser testing is demonstrating how innovation can improve operational performance while supporting wider ESG objectives.

Dry riser systems are critical components of fire safety infrastructure, requiring regular flushing and testing to ensure they remain fully operational. Historically, this process has relied on diesel powered pumps, which are heavy, fuel intensive and require transport and storage of additional equipment and fuel. These limitations increase operational complexity, cost and environmental impact.

Marlowe has addressed these challenges by introducing electric pump technology, replacing diesel as the primary power source. The new pumps are self-charging through company vehicles, eliminating the need for fuel storage and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This shift simplifies operations while supporting emissions reduction and improving overall efficiency.

Environmental and operational benefits

The environmental and operational benefits are clear. Electric dry riser pumps convert around 90% of energy into mechanical power, compared to approximately 40% for diesel systems, significantly reducing energy waste. The removal of diesel engines also eliminates exhaust emissions, reducing pollutants associated with traditional testing methods. In addition, the pumps are lighter and quieter, improving usability on site and reducing disruption for clients.

Commercial perspective

From a commercial perspective, the technology delivers lower running and maintenance costs. With fewer moving parts and no fuel system, servicing requirements are reduced, improving reliability and lowering lifecycle costs. The removal of fuel transport and storage requirements further reduces operational risk and complexity, particularly across multi-site portfolios. This innovation reflects a broader shift within Mitie’s technical services and fire and security offering, where sustainability and performance are increasingly aligned. By integrating lower carbon technology into core service delivery, Mitie is supporting clients to meet both compliance requirements and ESG targets, without compromising safety or operational effectiveness.

The adoption of electric dry riser testing also supports the transition to cleaner, more efficient infrastructure across the built environment. As regulatory expectations and sustainability standards continue to evolve, solutions that reduce emissions while improving performance are becoming increasingly valuable.

Strengthening Mitie’s offering

The integration of Marlowe’s capabilities strengthens Mitie’s ability to deliver these outcomes at scale, combining specialist expertise with a focus on innovation and sustainability. This approach ensures that fire safety services not only meet critical compliance needs, but also contribute to wider environmental and operational goals. By replacing traditional diesel systems with electric alternatives, Mitie is demonstrating how targeted innovation can deliver measurable improvements in efficiency, cost and environmental impact – supporting clients in creating safer, more sustainable and future-ready environments.