Fire Protection

Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels from global fire systems leader, Advanced, have been certified by FM Approvals to the EN 54 standard, becoming the first UK-manufactured fire alarm control panels to attain this accreditation. The FM APPROVED diamond is one of the most prestigious certification marks in the world. It is issued by FM Approvals, a member of the FM Global Group, for products that adhere to the highest property conservation standards in quality, technical integrity and performance. It is a mark of quality and performance that is relevant for any engineer, specifier or building owner wishing to install fire systems that meet the highest property conservation standards. Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels Advanced’s products lead the market in performance, quality and ease-of-use and the company has been at the forefront of standards leadership for decades across many of the 80 countries it operates in. As well as holding FM Approval for EN54 Parts 2 & 4, the Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels were among the first to obtain EN54 Part 13 from VdS. The FM Approval of Advanced’s fire panels also included an inspection of Advanced’s manufacturing sites as it moves into its state-of-the-art HQ in Newcastle in the North East of England. The MxPro 5 and Axis EN labels and branding are being updated with the FM certification in early 2019. Receiving FM Approval for our Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels is a proud moment for everyone at Advanced" John Newton, Head of Products at Advanced, said: “Receiving FM Approval for our Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels is a proud moment for everyone at Advanced and is significant for all of our customers and partners. It further differentiates Advanced as a business that has achieved high standards in fire systems quality, technical integrity and performance globally. That difference is significant, and it means that companies across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Africa now have access to our industry-leading range of MxPro 5 and Axis EN products.” AlarmCalm, and TouchControl systems The MxPro 5 multi-protocol panel and Axis EN systems panel are certified to EN54 Parts 2, 4 & 13 and come in one-to-eight-loop variants as standard, with further custom build options available. Both product ranges are easily configured into high speed, 200-panel networks, covering huge areas with tens of thousands of field devices. They include high performance features such as Advanced’s complete false alarm reduction software, AlarmCalm, and TouchControl, Advanced’s control and touchscreen repeaters that feature Active Maps and zone plans. Advanced are specified from the smallest to the largest buildings globally including in some of the most prestigious developments such as; The Shard in London, Abu Dhabi’s International Airport and Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia. Third-party testing and certification FM Approvals is an international renowned third-party testing and certification services for property loss prevention products and services used in commercial and industrial facilities to verify that they meet rigorous loss prevention standards of quality, technical integrity and performance. FM Approvals employs a worldwide certification process that is backed by scientific research and testing, and over a century of experience. The FM APPROVED mark is recognized and respected worldwide. Advanced’s Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels are now listed in FM Approvals’ on-line Approval Guide Advanced’s Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels are now listed in FM Approvals’ on-line Approval Guide which houses real-time information about tens of thousands of products and services certified by FM Approvals. Intelligent fire detection systems leader Advanced is a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems. The legendary performance, quality and ease-of-use of its products sees Advanced specified in locations all over the world, from single panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, multi-protocol fire panels, extinguishing control, fire paging and false alarm management systems.

The ‘Advanced Thinking’ campaign invites industry professionals to learn more about the Advanced approach, ethos and activity that has led to the development of some of its most well-known and recognizable products, including ground-breaking smoke control solution, DynamixSmoke, and highly specified false alarm management solution, AlarmCalm. The campaign will highlight how the manufacturer has tackled some of the industry’s biggest challenges through innovation. For example, the notoriously difficult challenge of planning, configuring and programming smoke control. Commercial Fire Detection DynamixSmoke, from Advanced, takes a revolutionary approach to the programming of smoke control, swapping complex data inputting for an easy-to-use matrix that saves time, money and gives a clear, at-a-glance view of all your fan and damper settings. This year we celebrate 20 years in the commercial fire detection and alarm business" Aston Bowles, Marketing Director at Advanced, said: “This year we celebrate 20 years in the commercial fire detection and alarm business and with that comes 20 years of product development, knowledge and expertise that continues to enhance our award-winning product line to the benefit of the purchaser.” Fire Detection Systems “Advanced Thinking serves to share this knowledge and expertise, highlighting how using smarter thinking has delivered higher performing and easier to use products and solutions, while reinforcing our brand values of performance, quality and ease of use. We’re also engaging customers via our social platforms where our testimonial appeal asks customers, ‘what is it about our products and services that gives you the edge?’ The best testimonials will receive an exclusive Advanced Thinking cap.” Advanced is a pioneer in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems. The legendary performance, quality and ease of use of its products sees Advanced specified in locations all over the world, from single panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, multi-protocol fire panels, extinguishing control, fire paging and false alarm management systems.

Following its launch, the wide range of benefits offered by Solo 365 have been enjoyed by users around the world. Now, through the launch of a new adaptor, Solo 365 has even more to offer. Alongside testing smoke detectors, Solo 365 now has the ability to functionally test ASD systems. This is made possible through a specialist adaptor which is fitted to Solo 365 in place of the standard clear cup. Testing smoke detectors and ASD systems With the adaptor fitted and the ‘Delayed Start’ mode selected – Solo 365 can be raised to the aspirating pipe, its slim-line and light design making it easy to align with a sampling hole. Smoke is then automatically generated and drawn through the pipe – activating the alarm and providing a functional test of the system. The availability of the adaptor puts the ability to test standard point type smoke detectors and ASD systems into one portable tester – for the first time. This not only leads to a more professional approach to maintenance, but also offers a simpler and cleaner solution which can enable faster testing at a reduced cost.

After entering into partnerships with Australian, Italian and Chinese trade fairs, the Deutsche Messe group of companies is now launching its own, fully proprietary INTERSCHUTZ trade fair in a foreign market: ‘INTERSCHUTZ USA’ is the name of the new event devoted to the North American firefighting equipment and safety/security sector. "Our new commitment in the U.S. represents an expansion of INTERSCHUTZ's worldwide network and allows us to occupy a key market with our strong brand," reported Dr. Andreas Gruchow, member of Deutsche Messe's Managing Board, adding: "While our foreign trade fairs are closely aligned with regional market conditions and needs, our Hannover-based INTERSCHUTZ – the world's flagship fair – focuses on the entire spectrum of global sales markets, supporting partnerships as well as business cooperation in the field of fire brigades, rescue services, civil protection and safety/security at the international level." Security solutions for fire brigades Firefighters in the U.S. have a great deal of respect for the INTERSCHUTZ brand as well as its size and scope"The first edition of INTERSCHUTZ USA will take place from 13 to 17 October 2020 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The American subsidiary of Deutsche Messe, Hannover Fairs USA, is responsible for organizing the event. INTERSCHUTZ USA focuses on safety and security solutions, new technologies and the latest strategies for sustainable American fire brigades. "Firefighters in the U.S. have a great deal of respect for the INTERSCHUTZ brand as well as its size and scope," said Larry Turner, President and CEO of Hannover Fairs USA. "Many of the industry representatives we've met with are incredibly excited about the launch of our new show in America." Focusing on management of fire brigades INTERSCHUTZ USA will focus on the requirements of fire departments in the 21st century, focusing, in particular, on the management level of American fire brigades. But vehicles, technologies and strategy aren't the only topic: At the same time, the new Philadelphia-based trade fair will also feature a supporting program designed to appeal to interested parties and fire department enthusiasts, as well as to families and potential young recruits from the east coast of the United States. INTERSCHUTZ USA enjoys the support of key local partners: "Members of the Philadelphia Fire Department are excited about welcoming the whole firefighting world to Philadelphia," said Adam Thiel, Fire Commissioner of the Philadelphia Fire Department and Director of the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management, adding: "Since 1736, the Philadelphia Fire Department has been dedicated to safety, innovation, and best practices." Helping companies to exhibit in the US An additional partner for the event will be Local 22 IAFF of the Philadelphia Firefighters and Paramedics UnionAn additional partner for the event will be Local 22 IAFF of the Philadelphia Firefighters and Paramedics Union. "Local 22 IAFF is delighted that a prestigious event like INTERSCHUTZ, with such a diverse array of exhibitors, is coming to Philadelphia under the name of INTERSCHUTZ USA," remarked Mike Bresnan, President of Local 22 IAFF. The aim is to help companies from around the world – and particularly companies exhibiting at INTERSCHUTZ in Hannover – to get active on the American market, either as individual exhibitors or as members of a group pavilion. This has already been successfully practiced at the other INTERSCHUTZ events staged outside of Germany. These are currently ‘AFAC powered by INTERSCHUTZ’ (27–30 August 2019 in Melbourne, Australia), ‘REAS powered by INTERSCHUTZ’ (4–6 October 2019 in Montichiari, Italy) and ‘CEFE powered by INTERSCHUTZ’ (5–7 November 2019 in Shanghai, China).

Kochek Company, LLC has introduced a new strainer that efficiently collects virtually all standing water from flooded basements and rooms, saving operators time and expediting property salvage. This latest product from Kochek, Putnam-based manufacturers of quality fire equipment and water movement products, is made of high-strength lightweight aluminum alloy and features a unique screen specifically designed to hold nearly flat against any floor. When placed at low spots near a sump or over a drain, Kochek's basement strainer draws water down to levels so low, simple air drying or light mopping can remove any remaining liquid. Kochek's new basement strainers are available with camlock, long-handle swivel female NH threaded, and storz connections in 2.5", 3", and 4" hose sizes. All Kochek products are covered by a five-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI), the UK’s independent certification body specializing in the security and fire safety sectors, shared in the success of this year’s IFSEC and FIREX exhibitions as the integrated events proved important forums for approved companies and applicants, as well as key industry stakeholders, to engage face-to-face with NSI experts.  The three-day events provided a vital opportunity to raise awareness of the valuable role of independent certification in enhancing the performance and operational effectiveness across the sectors. NSI’s continued support for the Show Me How feature was evident with a series of sessions on the NSI stand. The topics included updates on PD 6662 for the installation of alarm systems, the new Kitchen Fire Protection Systems scheme (SP206), NSI’s CCTV Code of Practice NCP104 and the latest modifications to the SIA Approved Contractor Scheme workbook.  Fire risk assessments NSI Chief Executive Richard Jenkins presented the heat winners’ prizes at the end of the final day in the Keynote Arena NSI’s Head of Field Operations (Systems), John Davidson spoke at FIREX to a packed theatre on the importance of using competent, trained risk assessors to complete life safety fire risk assessments. Once again, NSI auditors judged the work of teams competing in the Engineers of Tomorrow Competition, a key attraction within IFSEC International. This year the competition not only showcased the skills and talent of apprentices but laid the foundations for becoming a part of the highly respected World Skills competition. NSI Chief Executive Richard Jenkins presented the heat winners’ prizes at the end of the final day in the Keynote Arena. The heat winners on day three were Matt Eminson and Ryan Harker from Chubb (Intruder Alarm competition) and Callum Tootle and Chris Lomax from EFT Systems (Fire competition). Enhancing public security Independent certification is recognized as an important framework for continual improvement" Richard Jenkins NSI Chief Executive commented: “Once again IFSEC and FIREX exemplified the benefits of industry coming together to enhance public security. Our stand welcomed a considerable number of enquiries from companies interested in engaging with NSI’s highly trained team of experts. “Independent certification is recognized as an important framework for continual improvement for businesses; one we are pleased to spearhead within the security and fire safety sectors. We employ the most highly trained professionals who help to drive up the performance of businesses of all sizes as part of the assessment for approval. “It was inspiring to see so many NSI approved companies attend this year’s event and we were proud to play our part in helping to shine a spotlight on new talent within the sector. It was also a pleasure to welcome so many invited guests to our VIP drinks reception celebrating our collective commitment to raising standards.”

Across the country, law enforcement officers are finding it increasingly difficult to respond to the near overwhelming number of calls coming from security alarms. Police departments commonly define a false alarm as a call, which upon investigation, shows no evidence of criminal activity, such as broken windows, forced doors, items missing, or people injured. While false alarms bog down police, they can also negatively impact customers and integrators. End users can expect hefty fines for false alarm responses, and when these customers receive large bills from the city, many turn to installers, dealers, and even manufacturers expecting them to accept the responsibility and pay the check. What First Brought The Issue Of Alarm Verification To Your Attention? It is crucial to both see a situation and concurrently listen to any corresponding sounds to gain full insight I’ve been aware of the problem of false alarms for about 5 years. I believed audio capture, through microphone deployment, could be an active part of the solution when used as a second source for indicating ‘out of the norm’ activity and as an equal component with the video surveillance technology. In 2015, I found similarly minded security professionals when introduced to the Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response. After reading PPVAR’s paper on ‘Audio Verified Alarms Best Practices; [April 2015],’ I knew that the Partnership was on to something important. In our lives, two of the five senses we count on day-in and day-out are sight and sound. It is crucial to both see a situation and concurrently listen to any corresponding sounds to gain full insight. What Is The False Alarm Rate? In 2016, the International Association of Chiefs of Police reported that over 98 percent of all alarm calls in the United States were false. This number is obviously staggering, and something we need to work towards correcting. Why Did This Issue Resonate So Strongly With You? When I first investigated this issue, I was sure that the security industry would have already recognized this and was acting to ensure improved alarm verification, preferably through a combination of audio and video technologies. However, I quickly saw that this was not the case, or even close to the norm. I have questioned the rationale behind the lack of adoption and found the deployment of audio is often hindered by the concern of privacy. I’ve spearheaded many initiatives to explain the monitoring policies surrounding audio As CEO of Louroe Electronics, I’ve spearheaded many initiatives to explain the monitoring policies surrounding audio. I’ve had to reassure many security personnel and customers how the law supports the use of audio in public places as long as there is no expectation of privacy. By dispelling fears with facts around deploying and implementing audio sensors, customers can confidently include audio in their surveillance systems and gain a more effective security solution. Who Is Affected By This? Truth be told, everyone from the end user to the manufacturer is affected by this issue. Not to mention the strain this puts on law enforcement who are tired of ‘wasting time’ and effort out in the field on these nuisance alerts. When an end user receives a check for their false alarm, many of them will immediately blame the integrator and or the monitoring center for a faulty set up and management and expect the integrator to remedy the situation, including carry the burden of paying the fines. The integrator, on the other hand, will turn to the manufacturer, assuming faulty equipment and installation instructions; therefore, looking for reimbursement for the cost. What Is The Average False Alarm Fee? It depends on many factors, and especially your first responder assigned location for responseIt depends on many factors, and especially your first responder assigned location for response. According to the Urban Institute, fees generally range from $25-$100 for the first offense, rising as high as a few thousand dollars per false alarm if a location has a large number in a single year. What’s worse, in extreme cases, alarm systems may even be blacklisted by the police dispatch center if they have raised too many false alarms in the past. Why Do You Believe Audio Is The Ideal Technology For Secondary Source Verification? Video surveillance has been the main option for security monitoring and alarm validation for decades, however industry professionals are realising that video alone is not enough. Video only tells half of the story, by adding audio capture, the responsible party gains a turnkey solution with the ability to gather additional evidence to verify alerts and expand overall awareness. In reality, audio’s range is greater than the field of view for a camera. Sound pickup is 360 degrees, capturing voices, gunshots, breaking glass, sirens, or other important details that a fixed camera many not see. How Would A Secondary Source Verification System Work With Audio? Using a video monitoring solution equipped with audio, the microphone will pick up the sounds at the time a visual alert or alarm is triggered. If embedded with classification analytics, the microphone will send alerts for specific detected sounds. The captured audio, and any notifications are immediately sent to the monitoring station, where trained personnel can listen to the sound clip, along with live audio and video from their station. When law enforcement receives a validated alarm, they can better prioritise the response From here, an informed decision can then be made about the validity of the alarm, along with what the current threat is at the location. If the alarm is in fact valid, the information is then passed along to the law enforcement within minutes. When law enforcement receives a validated alarm, they can better prioritise the response. It also provides more information in a forensic evaluation. Are There Any Additional Resources You Would Suggest Looking Into? Yes, we would suggest looking into the following to see a few different perspectives on the matter: NSA Support For 2018 Model Ordinance For Alarm Management and False Alarm Reduction Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response Support for the Term “Verified Alarm” and Prioritising Verified Alarm Responses Urban Institute Opportunities for Police Cost Savings without Sacrificing Service Quality: Reducing False Alarms

Did you know an estimated 30% of smoke alarms in the UK are inoperable due to missing, flat or disconnected batteries? For a property to comply with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it is vitally important that all fire safety equipment is kept in perfect working order at all times. This involves checking that the fire safety equipment is accessible, well maintained and hasn’t been tampered with. There are many ways you can take care of your fire safety equipment, to ensure your property is prepared, should there ever be a fire. Equipment Assessment Checks There are two types of equipment assessment checks that should be carried out, including monthly and annually If you’re the ‘responsible person’ for commercial property, you need to ensure your building meets fire safety standards. Here are 5 tips on how to properly maintain your fire safety equipment. Both passive and active fire safety equipment must be check regularly for any signs of wear or damage. There are two types of equipment assessment checks that should be carried out, including monthly and annually. There is a range of equipment checks you must carry out, including fire doors, fire alarm test, emergency lighting and fire extinguishers. Emergency lighting should be checked monthly, with all issues kept in a logbook. Fire doors should also be checked to ensure their seals and frames are in good condition.   Fire Alarm Tests All fire protection has to be checked annually including alarms, detectors, lighting, sprinklers, extinguishers and fire doors. They should be carefully inspected. Fire alarms are a legal requirement for commercial premises. To check that your Fire alarms still function correctly, it is important to get them serviced. All fire alarms should be tested, maintained and inspected by a competent person who is able to carry out any remedial work. Fire alarms are a legal requirement for commercial premises Fire extinguishers must be ready to work straight away in the event of a fire, so it is vital they are regularly checked and serviced. You should ensure they are maintained and kept in a functional condition. Every month, the pressure gauge should be tested on all fire extinguishers. Fire Risk Assessments Every year, it is required that a qualified technician carries out a thorough check on all your extinguishers for them to be fully serviced and certified. In addition to regular maintenance checks on your fire safety equipment, it is vital your commercial property has a fire risk assessment carried out every 4 years, with a renewal every 2 years. Fully trained and qualified assessors should undertake this to make sure it is done professionally Fully trained and qualified assessors should undertake this to make sure it is done professionally. By having a fire risk assessment review, it determines whether any changes could impact the ability for your equipment to properly protect your building. Fire Safety Logbook During a risk assessment, all fire doors must be checked to ensure they are in good condition and close efficiently with secure hinges. The fire seals must be fixed in position, with signs on the door present and legible. To keep an overview of all findings and actions, there should be a fire safety logbook and maintenance record that remains at your premises at all times. The logbook is used to record and review any significant findings when carrying out the fire risk assessment. This helps to keep all fire safety equipment functioning effectively and available to respond to emergency fires.

I gave a lot of thought to identifying the biggest challenge facing the American fire service in 2019. Many things came to mind: funding; fire prevention - if every building was sprinklered and all had working smoke alarms, it would solve a lot of other problems; political influences; initial, regular and ongoing training, and a bunch more. But the one constant that kept popping up is the people issue. Staffing. This obviously isn’t the first time you’ve heard that. Normally, when we talk about staffing, we talk about the number of firefighters on the apparatus. That is not exactly what I'm talking about. What I mean is, in 2019, we better figure out where our next group of recruits is coming from. Measurable Drop In Applicants If one fire department is paying more than another, members jump ship On the career side, numerous areas are reporting a measurable drop in applicants—in other words, they need people who want to be firefighters and medics. In some areas, it’s a bidding war. If one fire department is paying more than another, members jump ship. And who can blame them? They have families to take care of. But when the dust clears, there are still far fewer people interested in this job than we need. Some theories are that the new generation: Doesn’t like helping people Are self-focused Aren’t into doing physical things Are lazy Can make the same money without shift work Can make the same money without risk None of these theories gets us far in addressing the problem. The goal of any fire department is to deliver staffed, trained interior firefighters just a few minutes after someone dials 9-1-1 Big Picture Focus On the volunteer side, all you have to do is listen to a fire radio nearly anywhere in the U.S. (and Canada) and you will hear volunteer fire departments toning out... toning out... and toning out—with little response when members are responding from home or work. It, too, is a measurable problem. There are volunteer departments with little funding and others with plenty of funding. Regardless, there seems to be little “big picture” focus on solving the problem based upon what’s best for the people having the fire. Some say to simply hire career firefighters. Is it that simple? What are the pros? And are there any cons? There certainly are. Trained Interior Firefighters Some departments solve the problem by having their volunteers on duty, in quarters, ready to roll The old model of volunteers responding from home or work doesn’t work very well when you consider the proven fire spread in 2019 vs. fire spread even just 20 years ago. Some departments solve the problem by having their volunteers on duty, in quarters, ready to roll. That may be the least expensive option depending upon the local model. Some hire part-time firefighters. Some unfairly and regularly rely on mutual aid. Some have a fair and balanced mutual aid system. Some have their heads in the sand. The goal of any fire department is to deliver staffed, trained interior firefighters just a few minutes after someone dials 9-1-1. If we don’t have people knocking on the fire station doors to become career firefighters or to volunteer, that goal is in jeopardy. I simply can’t see a bigger, more immediate challenge for 2019 than the “people” issue.

Set to stand at 62-storeys high, 22 Bishopsgate in the City of London will, on completion, become the second-tallest building in Western Europe. The 278m office building will offer 1.275 million sq. ft of high specification office space, as well as eight community spaces, covering over 100,000 sq ft, including an innovation hub, curated gallery space, fresh food market, gym and wellbeing retreat. Once completed, Advanced will protect both of Western Europe’s tallest buildings, with 22 Bishopsgate being the latest in a long line of London’s most prestigious and iconic skyscrapers specifying Advanced, including the Shard, the Leadenhall Building, the Heron Tower and the HSBC Tower. Networked MxPro 5 panels At the centre of the active fire protection for 22 Bishopsgate are over 80 networked MxPro 5 panels with graphic display and BMS integration, alongside three special build panels for the building’s Fire Command Centre, that will form part of the intelligent fire detection network. Advanced’s panels are used alongside Apollo’s Soteria detectors and its networking is widely regarded as the most resilient and scalable solution on the market. It can be expanded up to 200 node networks covering huge areas with complicated cause-and-effect. Great emphasis and consideration has been placed on the fire protection for 22 Bishopsgate" As a UK-first, 22 Bishopsgate will utilize a specially developed lift-evacuation strategy in case of fire. The building is separated into four vertical areas by fire-hardened slabs with a two-hour fire rating separating a floor from the one above at levels 26, 42 and 58. Depending on which of the four vertical areas of the building a fire is detected, workers on that floor and the floors above egress via fire escape stairs to the area below and from there can evacuate via the lifts, safe in the knowledge that these are protected by the slabs above. Fire detection systems Responsible for every aspect of installation of the fire system from design to completion, PHF Fire, a division of PHF Electrical, used Advanced for its market-leading networking capabilities, best suited to managing a network of this size and complexity. Paul Falkner, Director at PHF Fire, said: “Great emphasis and consideration has been placed on the fire protection for 22 Bishopsgate – a building truly at the at the forefront of fire technology. From working with Advanced previously we knew its products could be relied upon to deliver powerful, flexible and dependable fire protection for the complex nature of a building of this size.” Fire protection Advanced is a pioneer in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems Amanda Hope, UK Business Development Manager at Advanced, said: “Advanced is a leader in the market in terms of performance, quality and ease-of-use and being specified in arguably the UK’s most high-profile commercial development, since the Shard, reinforces this. We are thrilled to now not only protect Western Europe’s tallest building, but soon also the second tallest. It was a pleasure to work with the team at PHF Fire where we were able to meet their needs with a system capable of delivering the complicated cause and effect programming and flexible networking required.”  With EN54 parts 2, 4 and 13 approval, the MxPro is the fire industry’s leading multiprotocol fire solution, offering customers a choice of two panel ranges, four detector protocols and a completely open installer network that enjoys free training and support. Intelligent fire systems expert Advanced is a pioneer in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems. The performance, quality and ease of use of its products sees Advanced specified in locations all over the world, from single panel installations to large, multi-site networks in some of the world’s most prestigious sites. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, extinguishing control panels, fire paging and false alarm management systems.

A highly sophisticated Taktis fire alarm and control panel from Kentec, a life safety control systems manufacturer, is providing the highest levels of fire safety at Brenntag UK & Ireland’s facility in Sunderland. Brenntag is a market leader in chemical distribution with a global network of more than 580 locations across 73 countries. Its North East team moved into the new site in Sunderland, one of the company’s 24 sites across the UK & Ireland, last December. Comprehensive fire safety and alarm system Pitts Wilson, the electrical contractor, was approached by Brenntag to recommend and install a comprehensive fire safety and alarm system for the entire site. They selected Kentec’s technology as an integral part of the installation, which has helped Pitts Wilson pass a BAFE/NSI inspection. Kentec’s Taktis panel ranges from 2 to 16 detection loops to provide up to 144 zone indicators and can network up to 128 panels. Its enhanced integration and networking capabilities mean it is able to meet the current and future needs of even the largest sites. Integrated with the Hochiki systems The flexibility of the Taktis panel makes it very simple to install and commission" Mark Ellse, Fire Systems Manager at Pitts Wilson, says Kentec has provided an intelligent solution: “The flexibility of the Taktis panel makes it very simple to install and commission, and because it is fully open-protocol it is also fully integrated with the Hochiki systems on site. “The full color 7” touch-screen display is easy for the customer to use and understand, especially in an emergency. Along with providing a great system, Kentec also provided excellent customer support throughout the project.” Kevin Swann, Managing Director at Kentec, says Taktis is the ideal solution for large and complex sites and infrastructure: “The scalability of Taktis means it provides a future-proofed solution, able to expand and develop in line with Brenntag’s requirements. And because it is truly open protocol, it provides installers and end-users maximum choice in their system design.”

The Rabun County Fire Services, located in the northeast corner of Georgia, has placed a Lake Assault Boats fireboat into service on Lake Rabun, an 835-acre reservoir with 25 miles of shoreline. The new craft provides fire suppression and emergency response services for homeowners, visitors, and Georgia Power facilities located on the lake. “The combination of hydroelectric plants and a growing number of high-end waterfront single family homes in a region susceptible to wildfires make our on-the-water emergency response capabilities a critical part of our department’s mission,” said Captain John Murray of the Rabun County Fire Services. “The new fireboat has greatly improved our emergency response performance and significantly reduced our ISO rating.” Lake Water For Firefighting Operations The 26-foot craft can quickly transport water into a network of standpipes located along the shoreline – that were furnished by neighborhood homeowners’ associations – to supply lake water for ground-based firefighting operations. Moreover, its deck-mounted monitor enables the craft to conduct direct fire attack. The fireboat is powered via twin 175 hp Mercury outboard engines and features a 1,250-gpm fire pump The fireboat is powered via twin 175 hp Mercury outboard engines and features a 1,250-gpm fire pump driven by a marinized V-6 engine. The TFT Hurricane monitor is rated at 1,250 gpm and there are four discharge ports including one that feeds a 5-inch large diameter hose (LDH). Other features include a 63-inch hydraulically operated bow door capable of transporting ATVs, a swing-out side dive door, and a Davit crane with two access points. Easy To Operate Fireboat The T-top pilothouse is seven-feet long and has an interior clearance height of 76 inches. Its componentry includes a helm station with fire pump and monitor controls, and a 12-inch touchscreen commands a full suite of advanced electronics, including: forward looking infrared (FLIR), sonar with side structure scan, chartplotter, and GPS.  “We’ve been blown away by our new fireboat’s performance – it is smooth, agile, quick to plane, and very easy to operate,” added Murray. “Plus, once on the scene, we can be flowing water in a matter of seconds.” Located in a mountainous region in the far northeast corner of Georgia, Rabun County Fire Services protects 361 square miles with a department that includes 200 volunteer firefighters, six paid personnel, 12 volunteer fire stations, 17 engines, 11 tankers, 11 mini pumpers and three fireboats. Each year the department responds to approximately 2,000 calls.

A fire system with integrated fire telephone and voice evacuation system from Advanced has been installed at an exclusive 30-storey residential high-rise in Dubai. Boasting state-of-the-art amenities, luxury interiors, a fully equipped gym and rooftop swimming pool, the Siraj Tower has become one of the most sought-after residential projects in the ambitious $64billion entertainment complex, Dubailand. As Advanced’s exclusive distributor in Dubai, Cignetix were responsible for integrating this crucial part of the building’s active fire protection. Four Advanced Axis EN panels, which were recently certified by FM Approvals to the EN54 standard, and 2000 devices have been installed alongside its high-performance fire telephone solution. Designed for clear, easy-to-use control, the system benefits from LED status indications showing its operational stateSunil Gopalkrishnan, Managing Director at Cignetix, said: “Thanks to their reputation for performance, quality and ease-of-use, Advanced are our preferred choice of fire alarm, fire telephone and voice evacuation systems – capable of handling large networks of up to 200 panels and complex cause and effect programming.” Fire Telephone Solution Advanced’s fire telephone solution is ideal for high and low-rise apartment buildings, hotels, universities, government and military sites where local fire departments and emergency personnel need access to fire/emergency communications. Designed for clear, easy-to-use control, the conventional system benefits from LED status indications showing its operational state – whether the system has a call-in, is connected or is in fault condition. The fire telephone system is compliant with EN54 parts 2 and 4 and can be configured as either a standalone, independent system or completely integrated into the Axis EN fire system. Steve Carroll, Advanced’s General Manager for the Middle East, said: “The Siraj Tower is another fantastic example of the successful partnership between Cignetix and Advanced. In order to take full advantage of what our products offer, it takes companies like Cignetix, who have the skills and experience required, to apply Advanced to sites such as this prestigious high-rise.” Axis EN Fire Panel Range Axis EN, which is part of Advanced’s Axis range of systems, holds global approvals, including EN54, UL864 and AS1670Available for European, Middle East and South East Asian markets, Axis EN is Advanced’s highest performance analogue panel range, combining 1-8 loop, fire panels configurable up to 200 panel networks with a complete range of wired and wireless loop devices and powerful peripherals. Axis EN, which is part of Advanced’s Axis range of systems, holds global approvals, including EN54, UL864 and AS1670. It is designed to go anywhere where high quality, reliable and easy to use fire detection and control is required. Advanced, owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC, have a long history of protecting some of the most prestigious high-rise residential developments in the world, including the Gold Coast’s Soul Building and Miami’s Sands Pointe. Advanced is a pioneer in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems. The legendary performance, quality and ease of use of its products sees Advanced specified in locations all over the world, from single panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, multi-protocol fire panels, extinguishing control, fire paging and false alarm management systems.

The client is a prestigious purpose-built skin, laser and cosmetic surgery clinic based in central Birmingham. In 2018, they relocated to a Georgian building following an expansion of the practice to welcome new professional associates and provide a greater range of patient services. Their upgraded and refurbished building includes a larger operating room with dedicated recovery areas, treatments rooms, consultation rooms and waiting areas. At this clinic, plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic experts carry out surgical and non-surgical procedures for the face and body as well as cosmetic dentistry, IV nutritional therapy and advanced spa treatments. As well as a team of renowned doctors and practitioners and their administration team, the new premise is also accessed by numerous patients and their families visiting the clinic for pre-treatment and post-treatment consultations, as well as for the procedures themselves. Access Control And Intruder Detection System In their new premises, the practice required an access control and intruder detection system that delivered: Hassle-free access for staff with various levels of authority, from surgeons to administrators, for e.g. restricted access to consultation/treatment rooms and post-procedure recovery areas Limited access to patient information, drugs, high value surgical equipment and other high-risk assets Simple and reliable off-site management by permitted personnel, at any time and via their own computer, tablet or smartphone A secure yet serene and private experience for patients and visitors, for e.g. easy entry and exit for visitors to/from the main reception area Safety Of Staff And Visitors IGNIS Fire Protection Services installed Inception for this popular cosmetic surgery practice in Birmingham. With nearly 100 years of combined experience installing security systems, the IGNIS team delivers on its reputation for quality of service, knowledge, reliability and honesty. Inner Range's Inception access control and intruder detection system was used by IGNIS Fire Protection Services on this siteIGNIS works with integrated access control and intruder detection manufacturer Inner Range to deliver a cost effective, reliable service every time, with safety of staff, customers and visitors of paramount importance. Inner Range provided Inception, the core access control and intruder detection system used by IGNIS Fire Protection Services on this site. Inception was the perfect choice for this customer because it hangs off the same infrastructure with a single user interface. An integrated system gives the client reassurance, simplicity and ease of use. Offers Smart Building Management A pioneer of integrated access control and intruder detection systems, Inner Range has been a pioneer in the design and manufacture of intelligent security solutions since it was established in 1988. More than 150,000 Inner Range systems have been installed in over 30 countries. Inner Range’s award-winning integrated security systems offer smart building management at local, national and global levels. Inception is Inner Range’s powerful yet affordable access control and intruder detection system, now featuring a range of extra reporting functions, anti-pass back protocols and interlocking doors. The system provides this dynamic clinic with the integrated access control they need to run their business with the utmost efficiency, safety and security. Key Features Available With Inception: A web-based interface that can be controlled by authorized staff using existing smartphones, tablets or computers Various entry points starting at 2 or 4 doors and 16 users and can be expanded if required up to 32 doors and 512 users Universal inputs and outputs that can be used independently of each other, to directly control door locks and powered sirens modules Secured alarm communication is using 128Bit AES encryption to ensure data privacy Interactive Commissioning Checklist IGNIS installed the Inception system using its interactive Commissioning Checklist that ensures no steps are missedIGNIS installed the Inception system using its industry-first interactive Commissioning Checklist that ensures no steps are missed. That process includes core programming, custom automation, changing default credentials, backing up the database and downloading commissioning reports. Inception’s wireless adaptability not only gives users flexibility, it means technicians don’t need to find an IP address or connect to the user’s local network. They can also use an adaptor as a service tool to perform maintenance on site. Benefits For The Client: Peace of mind – 24/7/365 access and intruder detection solutions to keep patients, staff, visitors and assets safe and secure Convenience – the system can be controlled at all times via any mobile device No forgotten codes to interrupt the sensitive day to day running of the business or cause issues out of hours Value for money - no costly additional hardware and no need for a set on-site administrator or security guard Easy access and security means reception and support staff can focus on other responsibilities such as patient care

Chubb Sicli completes the installation of a full suite of fire safety and security equipment and services at Webster University Geneva. The new equipment will better protect students, staff and facilities with essential fire and security systems across the entire campus. Chubb Sicli is a part of Chubb Fire & Security Group, which is a part of Carrier, a provider of innovative heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies. Providing Fire Safety After many years of providing fire safety support to Webster University Geneva, Chubb Sicli conducted a complete fire and security audit, the first of its kind at the university. The audit resulted in a number of areas for improvement and the team provided a complete, tailor-made fire and security solution to meet the university’s needs. Chubb Sicli carried out fire safety improvements across all buildings Chubb Sicli carried out fire safety improvements across all buildings, paired with full scale intrusion alarms, access control for all entrances, CCTV system upgrades using the latest video surveillance technology, and also automatic fire extinguishing in kitchen areas. The project drew on many areas of Chubb Sicli expertise, from fire extinguishers and fire detection to security audit, emergency light installation and maintenance, as well as intruder detection, access control and video surveillance. Key Fire Detection Michel Pollak, Human Resources Director from Webster University Geneva, said: “Across our campus, it was a priority to provide effective and interconnected fire and security solutions that were as comprehensive as possible. Chubb Sicli is our long-standing fire safety provider and the audit was a great step forward in protecting our people and property, and responding to our evolving needs. The university campus is set across acres of park, which brings distinct challenges.” “Chubb Sicli’s excellent management of the project, their responsiveness and attention to detail meant that we now have key fire detection and suppression and intrusion and security capabilities at all key points. This work has enhanced the security of our student and faculty population. Chubb Sicli also demonstrated an understanding of our position as a local University but with international roots and needs,” Pollak added.