OUR APPROACH

We believe that our clients benefit from understanding codes and standards (especially CAN/ULC S1001-11) and what the consequences of noncompliance could mean for them. Using code excerpts, detailed explanations, and real-world examples, we help our clients to make the best decisions to ensure that their facilities are designed and built to code. Everything we do is exacting and done to prevent rework, which means that our drawings are meticulously detailed and specific about what materials are to be used and how they are to be installed – we leave nothing to chance.

Umbra played an integral role in the development of the 2011 standard, Integrated Systems Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems (CAN/ULC S1001-11) because the traditional commissioning approach didn’t account for how building systems interconnect. As such, we’re the experts and we’re well positioned to assist clients with upgrades and retrofits to ensure compliance, to commission buildings as the third-party Integrated Testing Coordinator (ITC), and to design new life safety, security, and fire protection systems to code.

When designing new systems for our clients, we can provide and write technology assessment programs and put out performance-based specifications that challenge manufacturers to prove their capabilities before our clients hire them, including writing evaluations, criteria, and tests to help clients select the right technology before beginning construction. We’re also equipped to strategize upgrades that plan for technological changes, helping our clients adapt within their budgets.

Since we’re a sister company to Williams Engineering Canada, we have the capacity to execute large scale projects and to advise on engineering above and beyond life safety, security, and fire protection systems.