Drägerwerk AG & Co. KGaA - Experts & Thought Leaders

The Engineered Solutions division of Dräger, an international pioneer in the fields of medical and safety technology, has provided Capita’s Fire Service College (FSC) with a highly intuitive training tool to enhance the theoretical and tactical training required to tackle wildfires.   In the first four months of 2025, a staggering 286 wildfires were recorded, with the BBC reporting that the area of the UK burnt by wildfire so far this year is already higher than the total for any year in more than a decade. The National Fire Chief Council is warning there is currently a heightened risk of wildfires that is resulting in increased investment in wildfire training and a greater need to develop firefighters' skill.   Software-based display The intelligent design of Dräger Wildland-Fire Sandbox (WFS 1000) uses a software-based display allowing for multiple scenarios of fire propagation to be realistically demonstrated, based on internationally recognized wildfire calculation models (Campbell Predictions System and Rothermel Fire Spread Model). Comprising multiple components including a depth camera, projector and sandbox, the integrated software is used to accurately predict fire propagation against numerous simulation parameters, taking into consideration weather conditions, terrain and tactics employed to extinguish the fire.     The WFS 1000 training tool is now part of Capita FSC’s new three tier wildfire curriculum, which develops the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviors for all levels of fire service personnel, from new recruits to strategic incident commanders.  Real maps and satellite images The WFS 1000’s use of real maps and satellite images means that the College can deliver realistic training in a safe space enabling the trainees to transfer the skills they’ve developed into the real world.  Pippa Steele Head of Teaching, Learning and Digital at Capita FSC says the WFS 1000 will provide firefighters with the skills they require: “Training is all about making sure firefighters are prepared and equipped with vital experience as soon as we see new threats emerging. That is why Capita is committed to harnessing cutting-edge technology to strengthen safety and resilience.”  “An important quality of the training tool is that it is intuitive and easy for trainers and learners to use to allow full immersion in the learning experience. Dräger’s technology provides these requirements and more. As a result, we have been able to develop a course that brings theory to life and delivers interactive training to firefighters that is transferable to real-world experiences.”   Rising incidences of wildfires Thomas Pearson, Marketing Manager (Industry) Breathing Systems & Engineered Solutions at Dräger says its engineering experts have been able to deliver a training tool unlike any other in the UK: “Rising incidences of wildfires has accelerated the need for more firefighters to be trained, and our solution will enhance the authentic training of firefighters by bringing wildfire incidents to life without putting any firefighters at risk.  “At Dräger, we pride ourselves on designing technology for life, and are committed to protecting, supporting, and saving lives through our designs.”  

Dräger, an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology, has designed a custom-built smoke extraction system for Kent Fire and Rescue’s (KFRS) new five-storey, live training facility, helping to ensure the service can deliver realistic training while minimizing the polluting impact on the environment.   The Ashford-based training facility is replacing the 30-year-old Live Fire Training building which was nearing the end of its operational life. The redevelopment at Ashford includes a live fire training building that accommodates lessons, including scenarios developed from the challenges faced by firefighters during the 2017 Grenfell tragedy, and other ‘tall building’ fire incidents. The facility will open in 2026. Dräger’s unique design   The design features three burn floors, with eight carbonaceous burn rooms, and a further two floors dedicated to training using synthetic smoke. The various internal layouts provide commercial, residential, and industrial settings, offering a variety of training scenarios.  Dräger’s unique design comprises a specialist extraction system that collects and filters smoke from the building and then emits cleaned air into the atmosphere via a chimney. In the event of an emergency during training, fire personnel can activate the emergency system which then extracts at a rate which will provide total visibility within 90 seconds, enabling a timely intervention or extrication.   Dräger collaborated with KFRS The system provides a vital function in supporting the health of firefighters, other KFRS employees on site and those in the immediate vicinity during training. It will also support KFRS in its commitment to provide a betterment, and helping to meet its target of carbon neutrality by 2030.   Dräger has also collaborated with KFRS in designing bespoke fire cribs that house materials for live burns, and which have been adapted to suit the size and requirements of the new facility. Dräger-designed smoke extraction system Jon Quinn, Director of Protection, Prevention and Customer Engagement at KFRS, said: “This new training facility represents a major step forward for Kent Fire and Rescue Service, and the Dräger-designed smoke extraction system is a fundamental part of that. This is about preparing for the most complex emergencies, in a cutting-edge environment that reflects the modern challenges of firefighting." "Crucially, this will allow us to create realistic fire scenarios while also significantly reducing the environmental impact, in-turn protecting the health of our crews and our communities.”  Training of firefighters Liz Millward, Marketing Manager, Emergency and Rescue Services at Dräger Safety UK, says it is a vast facility that required specific engineering expertise: “We’re excited to be involved in such an important, ambitious project in the county of Kent. This project will deliver a multi-functional facility offering a vast array of training exercises that will enhance the training of firefighters and support their safety out in the field."  “At Dräger, we pride ourselves on designing technology for life, and are committed to protecting, supporting, and saving lives through our designs.” 

Dräger, an international pioneer in the fields of medical and safety technology, will showcase a range of sophisticated capabilities to further the safety, health, and well-being of defense and security personnel at DSEI 2025.   Pioneering Dräger’s lineup is the Breathguard 2500, a carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide gas detection device designed for continuous air monitoring when crews are within confined environments, such as military defense vehicles.  Important feature of Dräger’s stand Breathguard is customizable with different alarm levels and is designed to withstand extreme conditions The Breathguard is customizable with different alarm levels and is designed to withstand extreme conditions such as shock, vibration, and high or low temperatures with electromagnetic compatibility.   Dräger’s pilot-mounted, in mask gas and pressure monitoring system, AviAir, will also be an important feature of Dräger’s stand. Developed to help explain ‘Unexplained Physiological Events’ (UPEs) during flight, the AviAir is designed to monitor pilots at the point of ‘most environmental challenge’, not only monitoring the pilot, but also the physical environment, including aircraft maneuvers. New generation of gas measurement devices The aircrew-worn data collection and monitoring device utilizes Dräger core gas sensors from Dräger medical devices for Oxygen (PIA) and Carbon Dioxide measurement (ILCA2), in use globally within the medical industry today. Benefits include visualized respiration, identification of trends, and learning from cause and effect.    Providing long-duration critical gas detection capability in austere environments is Dräger’s X-GEM. Visitors to the event will see how this intelligent gas detection module has the potential to form the basis for a new generation of gas measurement devices. It can evaluate Dräger's electrochemical sensors to provide a digital and easy-to-read total measured value. It has stripped back all the features of a gas detector to purely focus on the measurement functionality, which will allow the device to rapidly integrate into third-party systems or bespoke capabilities for Defense & Security. Effective protection against threats Attendees will also be able to view ColPro, a Dräger Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) respiratory protection system that safeguards military personnel against CBRN threats.  Dräger tailors the system to the specific application for either stationary or mobile use ColPro is designed to produce a positive pressure inside the protected cell, ensuring that contaminated air can’t reach the interior.  The device offers effective protection against threats such as respirable dusts, contaminated particles, aerosols, bacteria, viruses, toxins, chemical warfare agents, and toxic industrial chemicals (TICs). Dräger tailors the system to the specific application for either stationary or mobile use.  Important opportunity to exhibit its capabilities Tom Pearson, Marketing Manager, Engineered Solutions and Government Agencies at Dräger, says Dräger is looking forward to an important opportunity to exhibit its capabilities at the pivotal event for the global defense industry: "Our established expertise in medical and safety technology means we have solutions to a vast range of threats and hazards." He adds, "At Dräger, our openness to new and innovative approaches drives us to apply the latest technology to our devices and leverage a deep understanding of our customers’ needs. DSEI is an important event to share details on our lifesaving technology."  DSEI UK 2025 takes place on 9-13th September, 2025, at Excel London, in London, UK. Dräger’s stand number is N2-105.

The product lifecycle of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is approximately ten years, during which time technology inevitably advances considerably in terms of digitization and ergonomics. Increasingly pertinent in the last decade, and especially since the Pandemic, has also been how kit can be designed for ease of cleaning to ensure firefighters are protected from harmful carcinogens as well as bacterial and viral infections. When we surveyed UK firefighters as part of our ‘Health for the Firefighter campaign’ to understand their concerns about exposure to carcinogens and COVID-19, we learned the vast majority (84%) admitted they were concerned about the risk of cancer, while more than two thirds (68%) fear the impact COVID-19 might have on their long-term health. Unequivocal statistics that warranted action in our technology design. Proven support infrastructure The SCBA product lifecycle allows time for medical and safety technology manufacturers, such as Dräger, to take advantage of technological developments, and thoroughly test and future proof them. It also enables us to utilize our direct relationships with the UK fire services, not only to accommodate day-to-day feedback, but also to learn from our support of major incidents such as Grenfell and the Salisbury poisonings. The SCBA product lifecycle allows time for medical and safety technology manufacturers Following Grenfell, for example, we saw the critical importance of reducing the weight and size of kit to allow for greater ease of movement, as well as how critical it is to have the equipment underpinned by a resilient and proven support infrastructure. AirBoss, Dräger’s latest SCBA offering represents a digital progression, where telemetry and connectivity provide the information, and enable the integration and communication required to further firefighter health and wellbeing. This decade’s launch is no longer a product, but a connected solution. Providing vital information Digitalization is critical. Dräger offers the only operationally-proven telemetry solution, providing vital information which is automatically communicated between the wearer of the BA set and the Entry Control Point – without the need for either team to stop what they are doing to send communications. These signals include manual and automatic distress signals, team withdrawal signals, cylinder pressure, time to whistle and time of whistle. This system also provides comprehensive data regarding the firefighters’ condition in relation to their SCBA, proving invaluable to those responsible for monitoring and directing BA crews. A new feature, unique to Dräger’s AirBoss, are ‘Buddylights’ fitted to the backplate, which use digital data from the set to provide immediate and highly-visible signaling to firefighters of their team’s cylinder pressures and physical condition. AirBoss, Dräger’s latest SCBA offering represents a digital progression Providing comprehensive data The optional Dräger Web client enables workshop, management and command staff to utilize the data created on scene wherever they are, and at any time. Reporting can also be customized for multiple purposes from user or device history to synchronized overviews of complete incidents. The ability to create incident reports on evidential and tactical levels provides comprehensive and valuable post-incident analysis tools for debrief and training purposes, or in case of any investigation or inquiry. For future developments, Dräger is working with partners in the UK looking at solutions for location and tracking of firefighters and providing comprehensive data regarding the firefighter’s condition at an incident. The latter includes information such as body core temperature, heart rate and other vital statistics to allow external teams to monitor the early signs of heat stress and other physiological strains. Reducing physical stress Another critical focus is ergonomics. Improved wearer comfort has been achieved through working with medical experts in this field and shifting the center of gravity relationship between the human body and the set, creating a ventilated space by the SCBA backplate. AirBoss’ new Type 4 Nano cylinder provides a continued reduction in cylinder weight AirBoss’ new Type 4 Nano cylinder provides a continued reduction in cylinder weight, which can also reduce full life costs to the service, as the Nano has an unlimited life. These improvements reduce physical stress on the firefighter which in turn reduces the risk of strain-related injuries and fatigue when wearing the set operationally as well as extending the working duration due to reduced physical exertion. With AirBoss, the weight is carried by the legs and pelvis rather than the back. Improving personal comfort This not only improves personal comfort, but also enhances mobility within confined spaces and while descending ladders and stairwells. In an industry where a split second can be the difference between life and death, these advancements are crucial. On a practical level, the Dräger AirBoss has also been designed to be ‘snag-proof’, ensuring that all attachments are neatly connected or integrated to mitigate any risk of snagging or entanglement. Alterations have been made to maximize cleaning practices, including the introduction of smoother, non-absorbent, water-repellent surfaces to make equipment easier to wipe down and decontaminate. Numerous attachment points have also been included so kit can easily be dismantled for optimum cleaning – both mechanically and by hand. To this point, some fire services are moving towards mechanical washing systems, which provide complete consistency in washing temperatures, concentration of detergent, speed and temperature of drying. Vehicle charging systems The Dräger AirBoss solution is centered around four pillars: usability; safety; serviceability and connectivity Recognizing the financial pressures which the fire services are under, the AirBoss system is designed to enable fire services to maximize the significant investment already made into their SCBA and telemetry. With a modular design, AirBoss is backward compatible with existing Dräger PSS SCBA and Telemetry, enabling elements of the existing set to be upgraded over a period of years. This reduces the requirement to purchase a full suite of new equipment including telemetry, pneumatics, electronics, integrated communications, cylinders and vehicle charging systems. Overall, the Dräger AirBoss solution is centered around four pillars: usability; safety; serviceability and connectivity. These pillars, which support utilizing digitalization, improved ergonomics and ease of cleaning, are how we intend to protect our firefighters’ health and wellbeing, both today and as our future-proofed technology advances to meet the needs of tomorrow.

New tools and technologies are emerging that augment the efforts of the fire market to prevent and fight fires. Modern firefighting is benefiting from an ongoing sea change in technological capabilities, spanning equipment, electronic components, greater connectivity and firefighter monitoring, to name just a few. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What technologies will have the greatest impact on the fire industry in 2021? 

North America’s largest fire event, FDIC International, brings together more than 34,000 fire industry professionals this month (April 8-13) at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. First constructed in 1928, FDIC continues today in its original tradition of providing a forum for networking about the most vexing issues and sharing the most promising solutions to concerns that face the fire service. FDIC provides opportunities to learn new techniques, train alongside world-class leaders, and advance discussions among the most influential firefighters in the industry. FDIC allows practitioners and those who support the industry an opportunity to discuss frankly the latest developments in equipment and support and collaborate on how those new advancements can be best used. 27 Interactive H.O.T Sessions FDIC offers many opportunities for learning and training, starting with its 27 interactive Hands-on Training (H.O.T) sessions“FDIC is steadfastly dedicated to its fundamental principle of providing a non-ideological, non-affiliated and openly inclusive environment for sharing and collaborating among all members interested in the mission of the fire service,” says Chief Bobby Halton, Editorial Director, Clarion Fire Rescue Group, and Educational Director, FDIC International. “Whether their interests lie in operations, medical or fire, in administration, in the production and distribution of equipment, or the advancement of codes and standards, all opinions and worldviews are accepted and debated with the utmost respect and dignity.” FDIC offers many opportunities for learning and training, starting with its 27 interactive Hands-on Training (H.O.T) sessions, 78 pre-conference workshops and more than 200 conference sessions. FDIC’s immersive learning experience extends to the exhibit hall floor and outdoor demonstration area where attendees can see and try the latest products, equipment, services and technology from over 800 exhibiting companies. “FDIC is more important than ever to the fire service industry because it is now and will always be of the firefighters, for the firefighters, and about the firefighters,” says Halton. Events Co-Located With FDIC New this year, iWomen is co-locating their event at FDIC, which includes 14 timely classroom sessions spread over two days, as well as networking events geared at sharing challenges and insights in a supportive environment. Also, the Institution of Fire Engineers United States of America Branch is co-locating their AGM annual meeting and educational update at FDIC. And the National Fire Heritage Center has partnered with FDIC to promote the center, conduct its annual meeting and introduce the annual inductees into the Hall of Legends.  FDIC is more important than ever to the fire service industry because it is now and will always be of the firefighters, for the firefighters, and about the firefighters FDIC’s new MATCH! Program is a customized meeting experience that connects attending decision makers, who have an immediacy to purchase, with exhibitors whose products or services match their sourcing needs and interests. These VIP attendees can make the most efficient use of their time by accessing innovative matchmaking technology and a personal program manager to assist them with meeting scheduling and recommendations. Exhibitors At The Event FDIC’s Mobile App is a visitor’s guide to searching the exhibitor list, navigating the exhibit hall and seeing a full schedule of sessions and events. FDIC’s new parking partner, Gate Ten Events and Parking, allows visitors to reserve their parking space ahead of time. Large exhibitors headlining the Exhibit Hall include Pierce; Rev Fire Group, E-ONE, KME, Ferrara and REV Ambulance; 3M Scott Fire and Safety; and HME Ahrens-Fox. Other large exhibitors include Honeywell First Responder Products, Drager, Globe by MSA, Rosenbauer and Spartan Motors. Here are some of the timely themes covered at this year’s conference: Current updates on the development and implementation of science-based strategy and tactics Information and practices on mental health and wellness Leading advances in firefighting technology and managing an integration of technology into the decision-making process during operations Review of recent sentinel events in the fire service from actual participants Analysis of accident investigation from members of NIOSH and the CDC Updates on current research into toxicity in the environment and equipment Current thoughts on decontamination procedures presented by researchers and practitioners The value of belongingness as a tool for health and wellness, suicide prevention, a detailed examination of the sociotechnical interface and firefighting’s role going forward The complex political and operational dilemmas faced in the wildland urban interface Recruitment and retention for the volunteer fire service Networking Opportunities Abound The event takes over the city, and there are chances to network with peers everywhere they turnAt FDIC, networking starts the moment attendees arrive in town. The event takes over the city, and there are chances to network with peers everywhere they turn. Formal networking events are also organized, including the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Courage and Valor 5K Fun Run, Comedy vs. Cancer, IFD Open House and Pumper Pull, Stop Drop Rock ‘n’ Roll and more.  “We want individuals to walk away feeling inspired by new ideas, tools or techniques they’ve learned in sessions or new products or services they’ve sourced on the show floor that ultimately keep them and their communities safe,” says Halton.