Fire Prevention

The continuity of power in the event of a real fire has never been more important as modern buildings become more complex and the need for the highest quality of products comes under the spotlight. With power for lighting and fire alarms, the fire and rescue services can use the intelligence gathered to evacuate people quickly, confident that they have found all the people in the building. Without power, they are literally scrambling in the dark without good information upon which to make their rescue. The continuity of power will also ensure that sprinkler or water mist systems can continue to operate where they exist. In commercial buildings, there may also be smoke evacuation fans which help to enable safe evacuation. Fire alarms may be digital, with loop systems which will provide information for fire and rescue services  Appropriate Cabling  At the start of a project, the most appropriate cabling should be specified as part of the electrical system rather than at the end of a project. Fire alarms may be digital, with loop systems which will provide information for fire and rescue services across individual areas and floors. At the same time, there are new designs, materials and products continually coming on to the market for major projects, and with it an increasing need for the various parties involved to work closely together to make sure they get it right. There has been an increasing incidence of non-approved cables on the market and unfortunately it is not until cables have been installed, tested or used that issues become clear. For installers, or those procuring cables, there is a need to check the cable when it arrives to make sure it is exactly what was specified. Should there be a problem, have it checked and seek good advice. Keep records of purchase, including reel flanges with batch markings and a sample of the cable markings. Send lengths for testing and then decide on the most appropriate course of action. Choice of cabling is crucial at the start of major projects as issues may occur later  Meeting Rigorous Third-Party Tests  For some buildings, it is crucial to select the highest quality products to meet the most rigorous third-party tests and real-life fire scenarios. These include environments such as hospitals, schools and care homes where older people and children move about. Specifiers looking at new large public sector projects such as hospitals should refer to BS 8519 for the electrical supply, and the most relevant cabling system. It is crucial to select the highest quality products to meet the most rigorous third-party tests This Code of Practice specifies that the type of system selected during the design phase ‘should be derived from a detailed process of consultation with the relevant authorities’ and that ‘the design should be agreed at an early stage.’ The decision-making process for cable selection relevant for life safety and firefighting systems is clearly defined here. This covers three categories ranging from 30 minutes to 120 minutes fire survival time.  Categories 1 and 2 cover means of escape for 30 minutes and then 60 minutes respectively, and these cables are tested in accordance with the relevant codes. Category 3 for firefighting to 120 minutes refers to power and control cables meeting the 120-minute test according to the relevant standards. It should be emphasised that only Mineral Insulated Cable (MIC) or a cable meeting the requirements of BS7846 F120 will meet this criteria. For clarity, BS 8519 does not take precedence over BS 5839 for alarm systems and BS 5266 for emergency lighting. In essence, choosing the most relevant cabling and electrical accessories which will continue to operate under fire conditions has become critical. Application Of Medium Voltage Cables  As the incidence of non-approved cables continues then so the application of Medium Voltage (MV) cables into high-risk environments including hospitals, schools, care homes, industrial sites and sub-stations serving infrastructure sites also becomes critical. In the context off fire engineering, it is important to select the relevant MV Cables in these areas. Adhering to the latest regulations is no longer enough - there needs to be a risk assessment. In order to do this effectively, it is important to ask – are the fire safety procedures up to date? All AEI MV cables are third party tested and approved by BASEC. Educational establishments including schools, colleges and laboratories are some of the most prone structures to fire hazards The whole supply chain needs to take consideration of these areas where vulnerable people often move about such as children or elderly people in hospitals or care homes. The fire and rescue services may need a little more time than a conventional building including reading complex fire alarm information to ensure a safe rescue in the event of a real fire. Educational establishments including schools, colleges and laboratories are some of the most prone structures to fire hazards. This is due to ageing structures, high volume of combustible materials, and changing use in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths programmes where more combustible and flammable liquids are being used. Concerns have been raised by architects and and designers about fire protection regimes  Sufficient Fire Risk Assessment  Recent research by the Fire Brigades Union, for example, showed that a key focus for all educational institutions must be ensuring that there is an effective fire risk management process in place, delivered by suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment carried out by an expert in the field. The best practice under Business Information Modelling (BIM) and all best practice of fire safety engineering methods should be observed in conjunction with project partners. There have been concerns over a number of years around the fire protection regime for new buildings expressed by the architects and designers themselves. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) points to the delays to Approved Document B with regard to the relationship of Building Regulations to changing design and construction. AEI Cables provides a full range of cabling products through its Total Fire Solutions service RIBA says the virtual disappearance of the role of the clerk of works or site architect and the loss of independent oversight of construction and workmanship on behalf of the client is a further issue for concern. In essence, RIBA believes that future proposals for the fire safety regulatory regime should be informed by the specialist fire safety expertise of relevant professional organisations and groups, and also take full account of this wider set of construction industry AEI Cables provides a full range of cabling products through its Total Fire Solutions service with the support of its parent company Ducab based in Dubai, with the design, manufacture and supply of MIC, Firetec Enhanced or Firetec Power depending on specific needs. The choice of cabling and accessories should not be underestimated at the earliest opportunity to ensure the fire and rescue services are given every chance of success in rescuing people and saving property.

Pete joins Advanced from Apollo Fire Detectors Ltd, where he held the senior positions of Global Finance Director and EMEA Operations Director, managing a manufacturing and supply chain organisation of almost 400 people in Havant, UK. Working previously within Advanced owner Halma PLC’s fold, Pete also worked as Global Finance Director of Avire, and spent 13 years at 3M in various financial and operational roles. Pete said: “It’s a real pleasure to lead such an outstanding business. Since joining Advanced I’ve been struck by the enthusiasm, passion and commitment of the staff here who have all been instrumental in the opening of our new headquarters at Balliol Business Park, North Tyneside, which marks the start of an important new phase in the growth of our company. We are in an excellent position to continue to drive Advanced forward and enjoy an outstanding track record of success in the future.” Vast Industry Experience Pete succeeds Ray Hope, Managing Director of Advanced, as he retires after 19 successful years and a long and distinguished career in the fire industry. Ray will continue to have an advisory role within Halma for the next year, sharing his vast industry experience and knowledge and supporting owner the parent company’s ambitious growth and acquisition plans. Advanced services around 80 countries from bases in the UK, US, India and Dubai and recently relocated from four separate sites in Northumberland to one, 48,000 sq ft base in North Tyneside.

Draka’s Firetuf cable series for the cabling of tunnel systems has grown with the launch of the new Firetuf OFC-LT-SWA fire resistant loose tube cable with steel wire armour. As with all Firetuf cables, Firetuf OFC-LT-SWA has been designed for harsh environments and to ensure fail-safe management of operational systems in tunnels, underground railways and fire alarm systems. A steel wire armoured, refractory cable, Firetuf OFC-LT-SWA is ideal for heavy duty applications due to its high mechanical strength and pulling tension, plus its resistance to even the most determined rodents. The loose tube cable offers 90 minutes fire resistance thanks to its innovative design with double LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) sheathing in accordance with IEC standard 60331-25. The number of fibres per cable, from 12 to 144, is unique in the market. Central Tube Cables The new Firetuf OFC-LT-SWA is the latest addition to Draka’s portfolio of loose tube cables, which includes non-metallic Firetuf OFC-LT-NM and corrugated steel tape armoured Firetuf OFC-LT-CST. With a maximum number of 144 fibres, all three cable types are unique in the market. All three cable types have been thoroughly tested and approved. Draka also offers the Firetuf OFC-UT-NM (non-metallic) and Firetuf OFC-UT-CST (steel tape armoured) central tube cables, which are fire resistant Draka also offers the Firetuf OFC-UT-NM (non-metallic) and Firetuf OFC-UT-CST (steel tape armoured) central tube cables, which have a fire resistance even longer than their loose tube variants – up to 120 minutes. Depending on the design, they are equipped with 2 to 24 fibres. Tunnel Management “The number of tunnels and subways are increasing from year to year in a bid to better manage our traffic infrastructure, but present challenges when it comes to emergency situations such as accidents or fires. Safety is therefore the central issue in the planning and construction of tunnels," says Tayfun Eren, Product Manager at Draka, Prysmian Group. "The operational systems for tunnel management must be fail-safe around the clock. This requires safe and reliable cabling. Our high-quality Firetuf cable series are optimized for applications in tunnel operation such as fire detection, fire alarm systems, light and ventilation control and escape route systems and guarantee a highly available cable infrastructure.”

ADT Inc., the provider of monitored security and interactive home and business automation solutions in the United States and Canada, announced a $100,000 contribution to the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to help raise awareness for recruitment of volunteer firefighters. “Emergency calls have more than tripled over the past few decades and volunteer firefighters are needed to meet the increasing call volume and demand,” said Heather Schafer, CEO, NVFC. “We are grateful ADT is partnering with us and sharing its resources to help volunteer fire departments across America.” Volunteers comprise 70 percent of all firefighters in the U.S. and donate an estimated $47 billion in services to their communities every yearAccording to the NVFC, volunteers comprise 70 percent of all firefighters in the U.S. and collectively donate an estimated $47 billion in services to their communities every year. Those communities depend on volunteers to be their first line of defence for many emergencies. Unfortunately, many local fire departments are struggling to meet staffing levels. More awareness about the benefits of being a volunteer firefighter can increase recruitment. Recognising the bravery of first responders “With October being National Fire Prevention Month, it’s a perfect time to recognise these brave men and women who selflessly save lives by rushing into burning buildings,” said Jochen Koedijk, Chief Marketing Officer, ADT. “Millions of ADT customers rely on first responders during emergencies, and we believe our partnership in protection with the NVFC can showcase these unsung heroes and enhance fire department recruitment.” With seven out of ten firefighters and emergency responders serving as volunteers, there are many opportunities to join. “It takes commitment and dedication to be a volunteer first responder, but the rewards are overwhelming. I encourage everyone to volunteer; our fire departments are open,” said Kevin D. Quinn, NVFC Chairman.

“The fire sector is undergoing rapid change whilst constantly evolving, which requires manufacturers to adapt and innovate,” Vimpex Managing Director James Jones explained to guests at the unveiling of the company's ambitious new state-of-the-art manufacturing production facility at Great Wakering, Essex. He was responding to an opening address by Sir David Amess MP, Chair of the All Parliamentary Group for Fire & Rescue. This major development of the company’s capabilities is seen as an important and significant milestone in the Vimpex mission to become the world’s independent manufacturer and distributor of fire alarm sounders and associated evacuation and alarm system equipment and accessories. Transforming Our Business We are excited by the opportunities created by our nearly half million pound investment in transforming our business" Speaking to an impressive array of fire safety professionals including installers, distributors, OEM partners and members of the emergency services, James Jones said, “We are excited by the opportunities created by our nearly half million pound investment in transforming our business with adding this high-capacity manufacturing production facility, which will enable us to rapidly develop our markets for both Vimpex-produced and distributed products.”  “We have created a phenomenal capacity for business growth,’ James told guests, ‘which will allow the company to innovate and increase its product ranges, markets and territories, and to significantly increase export activity in targeted markets in which we anticipate a doubling of sales revenues by 2025.” Platform For Significant Growth Vimpex is a freshly emerging UK owned independent manufacturer of fire alarm & evacuation equipment and alarm system accessories. Thanks to recent grant funding from bodies such as South East Business Boost, Southend Best Growth Hub, Manufacturing Growth Programme and, most valuably, Essex Rivers LLG (LEADER), the business has transformed itself into a specialist electronics manufacturer with a platform for significant growth through increased efficiencies, development of its own products and IP along with an energetic push for growth through export.

On March 27-28, 2019, Leverage International will be holding PROTECT 2019, an International Conference and Exhibition on Security and Safety. This will be at the New World Makati Hotel in Manila, Philippines. Its theme is ‘Business Resiliency: The Next Evolutionary Phase of Business Continuity’. Now going on its 14th edition, Protect has proved to be an effective platform and a valuable source of business and information sharing between the security industry, the government and the private sector. Organized in 2005 in partnership with the Anti-Terrorism Council, PROTECT was initially devoted to overcoming terrorist threats. Global Economic Crisis PROTECT 2019, strong focus will be on cyber security, resiliency for facing natural disasters, internet of things (IOT), information warfare, terrorism and CBRN Over the years, focus of the annual gathering expanded to cover other prevailing serious threats from global economic crisis, natural disasters, pandemics, cybercrimes and other physical threats that affect business. For PROTECT 2019, strong focus will be on cyber security, resiliency for facing natural disasters, internet of things (IOT), information warfare, terrorism and CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radioactive and Nuclear). PROTECT consists of a select exhibition, a business conference, technical presentations, new product demos and networking events. It is attended by Decision Makers and CEOs, Senior Officials of government agencies, Security Specialists and Consultants, IT and Cyber Security Professionals, Strategic Planners, Risk Managers, Terrorism Experts, Construction Managers, Architects, Systems Integrators, Operators of Critical Infrastructures, Academics, and everyone concerned with security and safety. Social Networking Cocktail PROTECT 2019 conference series on ‘Doing Business Amidst New Threats’ will focus on Business Resiliency: The Next Evolutionary Phase of Business Continuity. It has 6 main sessions: The Evolving Security Landscape Sectoral Break-out Sessions: Panel Discussions Plenary session: Summary Presentations by Panel Session Facilitators Future Instability Challenges Future Business Opportunities Technology Presentations The agenda includes also a Speed Meet Up Session on the first day where each delegate gets to meet a representative from each of the government agencies concerned with security and safety.  This will be followed by a Social Networking Cocktail with senior government officials and diplomats as special guests. PROTECT 2019 will be featuring new technological products in the exhibition to complement the conference.

The college occupies 76,000 sq ft of teaching and workshop space, with specialist training installations, including 150 metres of external track and catenary A key driver in the successful delivery of the UK’s £42.6 billion HS2 project, the new National College for High Speed Rail, is now protected by industry-leading fire panels from Advanced. Located in Doncaster, a town historically known for its prominent role in rail engineering and maintenance, the college occupies 76,000 sq ft of teaching and workshop space, with specialist training installations, including 150 metres of external track and catenary. It will train thousands of engineers to meet HS2’s future needs, as well as those of the wider rail sector. With 2,000 apprenticeship opportunities set to be created by HS2, and 25,000 people employed during construction, there has been, and continues to be high demand for appropriately skilled workers. Need of a high-quality fire system The Advanced MxPro panels were specified by the team at GBE Fire and Security, who were appointed by main contractor Briggs and Forrester to specify, install and commission the fire system at the site. GBE’s Business Development Manager, Andy Westgarth, commented: “We’re thrilled to have been involved in this project. The college will create many opportunities for young people and make a major contribution to the Northern Powerhouse. With sensitive installations, including electrical catenary, a high-quality fire system is essential and, as a longstanding Advanced partner, we feel that MxPro panels are the ideal solution.” Multiprotocol fire system solution MxPro is the fire industry’s leading multiprotocol fire system solution. It offers customers a choice of two panel ranges, four detector protocols and a completely open installer network, backed up by free training and support. MxPro panels can be used in single loop, single panel format or easily configured into high speed, multi-loop panels in 200 node networks covering huge areas. MxPro’s legendary ease of installation and configuration and wide peripheral range make it customisable to almost any application. Reliable and easy to use Neil Parkin, Advanced Sales Manager for the North, commented: “This is the latest in a series of high-profile rail sector installations for Advanced panels. We have worked with GBE on many projects and it’s great to be working with them on such a positive project. MxPro ticks all the boxes for the National College for High Speed Rail, combining proven reliability with innovation and ease-of-use.” Advanced are members of the Rail Industry Fire Association (RIFA) and have panels installed in a number of other rail-related buildings, including the Tottenham Court Road Crossrail station, almost 100 London Underground stations, the Hitachi Rail Europe factory in Newton Aycliffe and the Tyne & Wear Metro.

KIMTEK's FIRELITE and MEDLITE units installed aboard emergency vehicles KIMTEK CORPORATION, manufacturers of modular skid units for firefighting and emergency medical transport in ATVs / UTVs, and brush trucks, recently implemented their latest line of skid units that support energy efficient electric vehicles.  KIMTEK's commitment to environmental sustainability, quality construction and convenient, modular design features provides important advantages for makers of electric vehicles such as Polaris GEM and Ranger EV models and, most recently, for the California-based Tropos Motors team. KIMTEK FIRELITE Transport 300 series truck skid units Tropos Motors has just debuted its ABLE FRV and ABLE EMS fire and medical first responder electric vehicles with KIMTEK FIRELITE Transport 300 series truck skid units and the MEDLITE Transport MTSTR-104 Transport Cot Units aboard. Ideal for first response coverage at large events, parking garages, commercial buildings, and entertainment venues featuring smooth or paved surfaces, electric vehicles allow fire and EMS personnel access to hard to reach areas where standard full-size fire and rescue vehicles do not fit. "Our latest pairing of MEDLITE and FIRELITE skid units with electric vehicles is part of KIMTEK's history of partnerships with American manufacturers to serve the varied and emerging needs of public safety professionals," KIMTEK's Founder and President, Kimball Johnson, said. "We are constantly seeking relationships that reflect energy efficiency as well as product combinations that best adapt KIMTEK equipment with the needs of our first responders in the many environments in which they work." For more information about KIMTEK's full line of public safety skid units for fire, rescue, EMS, and brush trucks, including those specifically for electric vehicles, please visit the KIMTEK websites at kimtekresearch.com and brushtruckskids.com. 

  Morrisons has installed smoke and gas detection technology from Chubb Fire   Sophisticated smoke and gas detection technology from Chubb Fire is protecting the staff and equipment at Rathbones, the bakery arm of Morrisons supermarket. Chubb Fire is part of UTC Fire & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp (NYSE:UTX). The systems had to be installed without disrupting baking production. Pervez Khan, General Manager of Rathbones (Wakefield and Middlesbrough) said this meant following strict hygiene and health and safety procedures: The installation had to be completed within five weeks and during normal working hours, and Chubb Fire proved equal to the challenge, he says. In a cooking environment, smoke detectors and alarms are crucial to protecting the people and the equipment from the threat of fire. Chubb Fire ensured the new system was installed, tested and commissioned simultaneously with the old system being removed. At no time was the factory left at risk. The systems installed include the latest HSSD smoke detectors and networked control panels to meet the relevant standards (BS5839 part 1 2002 categoryL1). Sounder beacon units have also been used to take into account the high noise levels throughout the factory. A separate alarm system has beenprovided specifically to monitor and detect ammonia, a harmful gas given off from the raising agent during the baking process. Jane Garland, Chubb Fire¹s Marketing and Communications Manager, says that fire prevention in the catering industry is essential both to safeguard the employees and the business: In this highly specialised installation, Chubb Fire engineers demonstrated their ability to work in any environment and to any schedule, even in the most difficult conditions, she says. Wm Morrison, the supermarket group, bought the Rathbones Baking Operation in 2005. Today the company claims around 15% of the market for own-label bread to UK supermarkets.