Fire Protection

To celebrate and support the nearly 70 percent of firefighters who volunteer their service, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire has announced a partnership with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC). A donation of $75,000 will be made by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire to the NVFC to help support volunteer firefighters nationwide. Health & Safety Of Firefighters The NVFC is a non-profit membership association representing the interests of volunteer fire, EMS and rescue services. The organization serves as an advocate for the volunteer on the national level and provides needed programs and resources to first responders addressing critical needs such as safety, health, recruitment, retention, training, funding and more. “There are over 800,000 firefighters across the country who volunteer to serve and protect their communities, and we work to make sure these heroes have the tools and resources they need to thrive,” said NVFC Chair Kevin D. Quinn. “Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire shares our passion for and dedication to the fire service, and we are excited to partner with them to give back to our boots-on-the ground.” Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire – NVFC Partnership The Jack Daniel Distillery is one of the only distilleries that has its own fire brigade The Jack Daniel Distillery is one of the only distilleries that has its own fire brigade, staffed by 34 distillery workers who volunteer their time to protect the distillery and the Tennessee Whiskey they work so hard to create. “I know first-hand the amount of courage and skill required to serve as a firefighter. I also know that those who volunteer to protect their communities need a great deal of support to do so safely and effectively,” said Fred Elliott, Fire and Security Specialist at the Jack Daniel Distillery. “As a member of the Jack Daniel’s Fire Brigade for more than 14 years, I’m proud to be a part of this important community while also working for a company that champions it. Firefighters are an integral part of the Jack Daniel’s story, from those who help us make our whiskey to those who work to protect it, and we are honored to be able to give back through this partnership with the NVFC.” Jack Daniel’s Fire Brigade In addition to the fundraising efforts, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire also launched a contest for 50 firefighters to win a trip to the Jack Daniel Distillery to attend a concert featuring country artist Chase Rice. The intimate weekend will include a Jack Daniel Distillery Tour, a behind-the-scenes look at the Jack Daniel’s Fire Brigade, and the private concert. Additionally, one lucky consumer and a guest will have the chance to meet these heroes and join them in their celebratory weekend through a separate sweepstakes, which opens March 18. “I have the utmost respect for our first responders and all they sacrifice for our safety,” shared Chase Rice. “There’s a camaraderie and a sense of pride in the fire brigade that reminds me of our road family, and as a long-time fan of both Jack Daniel’s and Tennessee Fire, it’s an honor to perform for them and raise a glass to their immense contributions.”

The ninth round of FeuerTrutz at Exhibition Centre Nuremberg broke new records. The 315 exhibitors (287 in 2018) from 21 countries (15) and over 9,000 trade visitors (8,354) from 50 nations (42) packed Halls 10.0 and 10.1 to turn the event into Europe’s largest dialog platform for preventive fire protection. For two days, the exhibition and accompanying congress with around 1,500 delegates, and the extensive supporting program, put preventive fire protection firmly under the spotlight. Passive, active and organizational fire protection solutions will once again take centre-stage at the next round of FeuerTrutz on 24 and 25 June 2020. On this occasion, the trade fair will take place for the first time in the more spacious Halls, 4 and 4A, while the congress will be held right next door in Nuremberg Convention Center Ost. Increase In Number Of Visitors And Exhibitors The fact that exhibitor and visitor numbers are up once again underscores the importance of FeuerTrutz as an information platform for fire safety professionals"FeuerTrutz 2019 offered fire protection designers, certified experts, building engineers, architects, official agency staff and other fire safety professionals an even more comprehensive overview of the market than in previous years. “The fact that exhibitor and visitor numbers are up once again underscores the importance of FeuerTrutz as an information platform for fire safety professionals. There was an increase in the number of participants from Germany and other countries – a sign that FeuerTrutz has become the must-do event not just in German-speaking countries but also at an international level,” explains Stefan Dittrich, Director FeuerTrutz at NürnbergMesse. In the accompanying Fire Protection Congress and two compact seminars, fire protection experts provided fire safety knowledge of a high professional calibre. The congress reached around 1,500 delegates, while more than 250 professionals took part in the compact seminars. “In the fire protection segment, continuing professional development is absolutely crucial. The response to the specialist events at FeuerTrutz was overwhelming,” says Günter Ruhe, Managing Director of the FeuerTrutz Network. Exhibitor Forums And Seminars In the new workshop ‘German Fire Protection’, visitors could find out about the German fire protection landscapeThe supporting program for FeuerTrutz 2019 combined established and new features. As well as the two exhibitor forums, which also featured presentations in English for the first time this year, the Fire Protection EXPERIENCE impressed participants with demonstrations at both the exhibition stands and outdoor demonstration area. Parallel to the exhibition, other events also offered sources of information. In the new workshop ‘German Fire Protection’, which was designed for an international audience, visitors could find out about the German fire protection landscape. The two compact seminars ‘BRANDSCHUTZDIREKT Löschtechnik’ (on fire extinguishing) and ‘Fire Protection in Bavaria’ were aimed at experts in active fire protection solutions as well as architects and official agency staff. At the Training & Career Meeting Point, 16 providers presented information on their training and professional development opportunities. This was aptly complemented by the Jobs Board, which listed vacancies posted by exhibiting companies. But the event wasn’t just all work and no play, as fire safety professionals also attended an after party at the nearby Max Morlock Stadium. Record Participation At Fire Protection Congress The congress on the theme Fire protection objective: concepts and solutions for standard and special buildings More than 35 presentations explored the latest developments in building law, the use of digital technology like building information modelling‘Realizing fire protection goals: concepts and solutions for standard and special buildings’ was devoted to the many challenges in fire protection planning and design. More than 35 presentations explored the latest developments in building law, the use of digital technology like building information modelling, or the increasing complexity of fire protection design for flexible use concepts. A separate congress stream was devoted to best practice examples. With around 1,500 delegates, the 2019 FeuerTrutz Fire Protection Congress set new benchmarks. FeuerTrutz 2020 To Be Held In Spacious Halls The next round of FeuerTrutz will take place in Halls 4 and 4A at Exhibition Centre Nuremberg on 24 and 25 June 2020. The Fire Protection Congress will relocate to the directly adjacent Nuremberg Convention Center Ost. “We work closely with the sector to continually develop and improve FeuerTrutz. The move to the new halls provides the ideal framework for achieving this,” says Stefan Dittrich, Director FeuerTrutz at NürnbergMesse. “The change also offers the supporting program new options for a more comprehensive presentation of the various aspects of fire protection,” explains Günter Ruhe, Managing Director of the FeuerTrutz Network.

Dublin-based specialist electrical and security distributors, Richmond Electrical Wholesale (REW) has announced enhancing its product portfolio by introducing Comelit’s full range of third-party accredited high-specification solutions, including a full range of addressable and conventional systems. Fire Security And Detection Solutions The partnership ensures an all-encompassing service capability to present fire safety and security solutions that meet industry standards and present with a five-year guarantee, without compromising on style.  Says Noel McStay, Commercial Director of REW: “As we are already a main distributor in Ireland for Comelit’s Intercom systems and with a great working relationship, we had little hesitation in extending our range to embrace the new fire detection solutions. We knew the product portfolio would be offered with the same focus of futureproof technology, compliance and design.” REW-Comelit Partnership He adds, “We also recognized attention would be given to simplifying the installation process to enable our customers to present entire fire and security systems.  Put together with our specialist team knowledge of Comelit’s products, we are able to work in partnership with customers to design and recommend to complete required specifications, all with the backing of full technical support.” Francesca Boeris, Managing Director Comelit Group added: “The outlook for the Irish construction sector is bright for the year to come and we are delighted for REW to become our exclusive partner, enabling them to offer complete fire and security solutions. The partnership provides the opportunity for us to extend our close working relationship and ensure customers have access to a portfolio of fire detection products that achieves the highest safety standards, without compromising on the style and aesthetic that is synonymous with the Comelit brand.”

Taking short lead times and convenient delivery to new heights, manufacturer and supplier of specialist passive fire protection products, Quelfire, has launched QuelQuick, a new same day delivery service to businesses and project sites across North West England. Fire Containment Systems Expert  With over 40 years of experience and expertise in fire containment, Quelfire provides a wide range of high quality and certified products and services to specifiers, architects, engineers and contractors for the most effective fire protection in buildings of all sizes, types and ages. Committed to providing first-class customer service and recognising the market’s needs Quelfire has introduced another value-added service to its customers. QuelQuick is a same day delivery service directly to site or contractor’s premises within North West England. One of our key business values is to deliver friendly and first-class customer service to all clients at all times" The new QuelQuick service means that customers that place an order before 11am can receive their goods on the same day, delivered using Quelfire’s dedicated van service. For a minimal surcharge, the team will prioritize picking and packing these items from its flagship Sandbach warehouse with the aim of getting orders out on the road within the hour. The same day delivery service is being rolled out across cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Chester and their surrounding areas, and customers can expect to receive their items within four hours of placing an order. QuelQuick Fast Delivery Service Keith Wells, Managing Director and Fire Containment Specialist at Quelfire, said: “One of our key business values is to deliver friendly and first-class customer service to all clients at all times. With the nature of the industry, we understand that not all sites have the capacity for storage and at the same time, last minute requirements for products can often also be an issue. With QuelQuick we are offering our customers both speed and convenience, as our high-quality products can be delivered to their doorstep within just a few hours of the order being placed.” Manufactured in the UK, all of Quelfire systems have been tested to the latest BS and EN standards “We hold large amounts of stock of most of our products at our warehouse so inventory will never be a problem. The North West is booming with construction projects at the moment, most of which will require fire protection solutions, so we are pleased to be able to roll this service out to the region and support firestopping contractors, main contractors, distributors and M&E contractors in delivering their projects on time and as efficiently as possible.”  Certified Fire Collars, Sleeves And Intumescent Wraps Manufactured in the UK, all of Quelfire systems have been tested to the latest BS and EN standards, with a range of fire collars, fire sleeves and intumescent wraps also carrying CE Mark Certification. Some of the products include fire containment systems for pipe, duct and electrical service penetrations, as well as linear joints and cavity barriers, all of which are made at Quelfire’s centrally located premises in Cheshire. With innovation at the heart of the company, Quelfire is committed to investing, developing and testing new products and systems that push the benchmark for passive fire safety in buildings. Quelfire products have been installed on thousands of projects throughout the world, including many hotels, apartments, care homes and offices, with some of their products also frequently deployed across London Underground.

Meesons announces that its FPJ140 2SF has now achieved an EI60 Fire Rating from both directions. The FPJ140 2SF now joins FPJ140 1AF Security Portal in providing fire protection and smoke control on both sides of the flat side doors as per the European Fire Resistance norm: EN 13501-2 & EN 1634-1: 2014. Achieving the fire rating on both directions of the flat side of the portal means that architects and specifiers have reassurance that the Meesons FPJ140 2SF and FPJ140 1AF Security Portal will provide the required levels of resistance to fire. The certification means the portals will retain their structure and integrity in the event of a fire and prevent the passage of flames of hot gases as well as limiting the temperature on the unexposed face of the unit. Cost Effective Solution Meesons FPJ140 2SF and FPJ140 1AF are the only Security Portals that have been specifically designed as fully integrated stand-alone units The FPJ140 1AF can be supplied with a fire rating to meet either EI60 and EI120, providing 60 or 120 minutes respectively. FPJ140 1AF EI60 provides a more cost effective solution and with an option to increase the resistance to fire up to 120 minutes. Meesons FPJ140 2SF and FPJ140 1AF are the only Security Portals that have been specifically designed as fully integrated stand-alone units, which have been independently tested by an accredited third party laboratory, to meet the fire rating requirements set out in EN 13501-2 & EN 1634-1: 2014. Both Security Portals prevent tailgating and are suitable for new buildings and retrofitted into existing openings to create a safe, secure fire line. Fire Safety Strategy Achieving the fire rating on both sides’ means that architects and specifiers can specify Meesons FPJ140 2SF and FPJ140 1AF Security Portals as part of a wider fire safety strategy ensuring the containment or prevention of fire spreading.  Meesons fire rated Security Portals prevent tailgating by only allowing the transit of one person at a time As well as maintaining a secure fire line, Meesons fire rated Security Portals prevent tailgating by only allowing the transit of one person at a time, ensuring only authorised users can gain access to a secure area. “Our FPJ140 2SF and FPJ140 1AF are the only Security Portals that have been specifically designed to meet fire rating requirements as a single, fully integrated unit,” said Jeremy Terry, CEO at Meesons A.I. Ltd. “Gaining fire rating on both sides of the flat side doors provides specifiers with the assurance that the portals will perform exactly as tested and from both directions.” Entrance Control Solution The FPJ140 2SF and FPJ140 1AF Security Portals are available with Attack Resistant Class 3 & 4, EN1627-30:2000 or Bullet resistant glazing up to BR4–EN 1063 on the external curved side. This makes them an ideal entrance control solution for highly secure areas that also require the fire line to be maintained. Meesons FPJ140 1AF Fire Rated Security Portal features a manual swing door with automatic sliding curved doors. The FPJ140 2SF features automatic sliding curved doors and flat doors. Both Security Portals can be customised to suit individual client requirements with different types of finish options available as well as the integration of third party devices. Battery backup is also provided, so in the event of power loss the units will remain operational for up to 6-8 hours.

In line with its ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, fire detection product manufacturer Nittan has launched the new EV-PYS Photoelectric smoke detector complete with integral sounder. Building on the success of the EV-PS, the EV-PYS features a new advanced smoke sensing chamber designed for maximum effectiveness. A spherical feature has been incorporated within the chamber which provides superior light scattering, plus an orange LED has been used, which significantly improves response across the fire spectrum. Minimizing The Effect Of Dust Contamination The shape of the new ‘PY’ smoke chamber has also been optimized to minimize the effect of dirt/dust contamination, plus a fine stainless steel micromesh prevents the ingress of even the smallest insects which can create false alarms. Even with this improved performance, Nittan is pleased to offer the new EV-PYS at the same price point as its popular predecessor, the EV-PS. The EV-PYS is a direct replacement for the EV-PS and is fully backward compatible, meaning it is suitable as a direct replacement for spares and retro-fit applications of any older EV-PS models without the need for panel upgrades or type code changes. The new “PY” chamber technology incorporated into the EV-PYS will form an essential building block for future planned Nittan device developments.

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.

The original fire suppression agent has always been, of course, water. In the age of sail, it was ideal. Not so with the advent of the combustion engine, however. When applied to burning petroleum, the fire spreads. It also simply destroys electronics. Carbon dioxide (CO2) and Halon derivatives were the first widely used commercial fire suppression solutions, gaining popularity in the 1950s and '60s. Unlike water, they were highly effective, electrically non-conductive and didn't leave any residue. As compressed gases, storage wasn't a major issue. Unfortunately, Halon was found to be a high ozone depleting chemical; as a result, production was banned in 1990. Evolution Of Fire Suppression Systems Ideal for marine applications, HFC227 is fast, effective and clean With the sunsetting of Halon and the search for alternatives, CO2 gained prominence. However, it has three significant drawbacks: it's a greenhouse gas, requires a large number of cylinders and is potentially fatal if breathed at design concentrations. In the 1990s, HFCs rose to dominance as a fire suppression solution. Ideal for marine applications, HFC227 is fast, effective and clean. Like Halon and CO2, however, it's a greenhouse gas and contributes to global warming. Discharging an average-sized cylinder of HFC227 has the same CO2 equivalent as driving a car 268,760 kilometers. This is why it is being eliminated as part of a phased-down mandate from the EU, and restricted or taxed by various countries such as Australia and Norway. It is expected that similar legislation will begin to affect Canada and US-flagged vessels. Environmental Profile Of HFCs In 2002, 3M introduced Novec™ 1230 Fire Protection Fluid. It offers a number of important advantages over other clean agents in marine fire suppression applications. It has low acute toxicity and high extinguishing efficiency. This gives it a wide margin of safety compared to other chemical clean agents such as HFC227. A fluid, it vaporizes rapidly during discharge, is non-corrosive, non-conductive and leaves no residue. It is, importantly, a long-term, sustainable solution with virtually zero global warming potential, e.g., it has an atmospheric life of about a week versus HFC227's 34 years. So confident is 3M of its product, it offers its BlueSkySM Warranty; if it is ever banned or restricted from use due to its environmental properties, the company will refund the cost of the fluid. Unlike CO2, a gas, Novec 1230 fluid can be flown to the vessel or platform allowing less downtime waiting for supplies to arrive by ground For the marine and offshore oil and gas industries, Novec 1230 fluid offers distinct advantages. Because it's a fluid, recharging is simple. Unlike CO2, a gas, it can be flown to the vessel or platform. This means less downtime waiting for supplies to arrive by ground. It also takes up significantly less space. Recently, Sea-Fire Europe ceased distribution of HFC227. The move was strategic and ethical, given the environmental profile of HFCs. Novec 1230 Fluid For Recreational Marine Market With the phase-down of HFCs, supplies are running out. This means in the immediate future there will be a serious inability to service systems. Also, with shortages beginning, costs are rising, making the switch to Novec 1230 fluid a smart move financially. While 3M will obviously benefit from this, the real winner here is our planet and the people we share it with" Sea-Fire recognizes that it may lose business in the short term as boat and shipbuilders continue to choose HFC-based fire systems strictly based on cost alone. But, ultimately, eliminating the use of hydrofluorocarbons is the right thing to do for the marine industry as a whole. As the first manufacturer to introduce Novec 1230 fluid into the recreational marine market in 2012, Sea-Fire is fully prepared for the phase-out of HFCs. Benefitting The Marine Industry "As a corporation, 3M is committed to improving every life," said David Olds, 3M account executive for fire suppression applications. "Sea-Fire Europe made a difficult decision when announcing it would cease distribution of HFC227. While 3M will obviously benefit from this, the real winner here is our planet and the people we share it with." Sea-Fire Marine has long held the belief that it is in the business of protecting people and property at sea. With its recent declaration that its master European distributor Sea-Fire Europe is ending distribution of HFC-based fire suppression fluids, it can add the environment to its list.

In large factory halls used for metalworking operations, conventional fire alarm systems are often not enough to protect buildings, employees and equipment. In many cases, high ceilings, greater fire hazards and interference from reflected light characterize these halls. The company of MKM Mansfelder Kupfer und Messing GmbH (MKM) faced exactly this challenge. MKM is a manufacturer of copper and copper-alloy precursor and semi finished products. Achieve Better Protection The company wanted to achieve better protection from fire hazards in two of the halls at its Hettstedt site in Saxony-Anhalt, a state in the eastern part of Germany. Conditions in the halls are particularly challenging because the pace of production constantly varies While searching for the optimal solution, the plant fire brigade tested a number of candidates, including quite a few conventional fire alarm systems. Conditions in the halls are particularly challenging because the pace of production constantly varies. “Due to the large size of both halls, in the end we decided that only one solution was up to the job: the AVIOTEC visual early fire detection system from Bosch,” explains Christoph Dammann, administrator fire and alarm systems at MKM. Fire Detection System AVIOTEC is the first video-based fire detection system to be certified by VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH (VdS). Intelligent algorithms integrated in the camera ensure reliable early detection of smoke and flame. This innovative technology also excels in terms of costs and efficiency. Bosch experts planned and configured the solution for MKM and then took care of integrating it into the existing fire detection system and connecting it to the monitoring center of the plant fire brigade. If a fire is detected in either of the two halls, it sends signals to the central fire detection system as well as directly to the fire brigade. Then the firefighters can check the video monitor and take targeted appropriate action to extinguish the fire before it can spread.

The headquarters of Bulgaria’s Communications Regulation Commission will be protected by high-tech fire systems from Advanced System, as part of a major refurbishment project and drive to reduce cases of false alarms. Located in Sofia, the Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) was established in 2002 as an independent state authority entrusted with the management and regulation of all electronic communications in Bulgaria. Axis EN System A recent upgrade of the fire system in the Communications Regulation Commission office was undertaken by Advanced partner, FireTech Engineering Ltd   A recent upgrade of the fire system in the Communications Regulation Commission office was undertaken by Advanced partner, FireTech Engineering Ltd. The project saw Advanced’s Axis EN system installed in the building supported by smoke detectors, and Advanced’s AlarmCalm false alarm management solution. Rossen Kolev, Managing Director for FireTech Engineering Ltd, said: “We specified Axis EN as the brains and backbone of the system for the CRC building as we know it offers the highest levels of quality and reliability. The client specified a system that would avoid false alarms and offer the option to expand or upgrade in the future, which is something we can guarantee with Axis EN and AlarmCalm.” AlarmCalm Fire Alarm Management AlarmCalm is a free upgrade to Advanced software and firmware that takes advantage of the high-speed robust panels and networks to offer the best-in-class solution for managing verification and investigation delays to outputs. It allows the false alarm management strategy for a site to be refined right down to points and to take account for resident needs and area usage. It includes the AlarmCalm loop device that allows residents or trained staff to indicate whether they believe a signal in their area is due to a false alarm. Axis EN is EN54 2,4&13 approved and its 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. Advanced’s legendary ease of installation and configuration and wide peripheral range make it customizable to almost any application. TouchControl And Dynamic Reporting  Axis EN also supports TouchControl, Advanced’s 10” HD touchscreen repeater and remote-control terminal that offers dynamic reporting and control Axis EN also supports TouchControl, Advanced’s 10” HD touchscreen repeater and remote-control terminal that offers dynamic reporting and control via a unique interface that includes Active Maps and zone plans. Etienne Ricoux, Advanced’s Head of Sales, commented: “The Communications Regulation Commission building in Sofia is the latest high-profile building in Bulgaria to be protected by Advanced panels. Our Axis EN panels lead the market and offer the performance, reliability and flexibility needed in a building such as this.” Intelligent Fire Systems Expert Advanced is a globally renowned developer and manufacturer of intelligent fire systems. The legendary performance, quality and ease-of-use of its products sees Advanced specified 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 and fire paging systems.

A fire safety system upgrade at Harwich and Dovercourt High School, a mixed secondary school and sixth form with academy status serving more than 1,200 students aged 11 to 18 years, has 110 Vimpex Fire-Cryer Voice Sounders at its heart to help protect students and staff. This extensive fire safety system upgrade, installed by life safety systems specialists Anglia Fire Protection Ltd. comprises 24 Vimpex wall mounted Fire-Cryer and 86 high output Midi Fire-Cryer Voice Sounders, with custom built voice message controllers built to the customer’s specification. Produces Bespoke Messages And Tones Such a busy, multi-use facility as a senior school demands a bespoke evacuation and warning system solution. Vimpex’s Fire-Cryer Voice Sounders can be programmed to produce bespoke messages and tones specifically designed for the educational environment. Vimpex’s Fire-Cryer is the only voice sounder system available with a range of discreet ceiling mounted voice sounders through to high output IP66 voice sounders. The Fire-Cryer range is the most extensive range of voice sounders available on the market today The advantage of using multi-message voice sounders in schools is that traditional fire alarms can be mixed with everyday messages such as class change. It can be customary practice for schools to use the fire bells or sounders to announce class changes with the potential for confusion during an actual fire or routine test. Low Current Consumption The Fire-Cryer range is the most extensive range of voice sounders available on the market today with five models to choose from and literally millions of message combinations, ensuring that any site requirement can be fulfilled. The units require no special wiring and can be retrofitted to existing installations. They can be fully synchronized and have a low current consumption allowing simple replacement of existing sounders and bells. Established in 1994, Vimpex is the independent manufacturer and distributor of fire detection, alarm and evacuation products and accessories in the UK. The company produces and distributes a range of high-quality evacuation, signalling and building infrastructure system products, both Vimpex-manufactured and supplied by the company’s manufacturing partners.

Inorbit has emerged as one of Mumbai’s popular shopping destinations with its diverse and exceptional offerings in food, fashion and entertainment. Over the last 15 years of being in business, the mall has gained a huge fan following because of the unique shopping experience one can enjoy here. The Axis EN system, which has recently received globally recognized FM APPROVED accreditation, was installed by Advanced Partners, Abhay Fire and Security Engineers, who were tasked with replacing the entire system including full re-configuration, programming and commissioning. The installation, covering the entire shopping mall including all public areas and retail units, is comprised of two networked 8-loop panels linked to the building management system and exhaust and pressurization fans for the building’s smoke control function. Axis EN Analog Fire Panel System Axis EN, which is part of Advanced’s Axis range of systems, holds global approvals, including EN54, UL864 and AS1670Hiren M. Shah, Proprietor at Abhay Fire and Security Engineers, said: “Advanced are our first choice of panel every time, combining innovation, intuitive operation and reliability. The Axis EN system was selected thanks to its auto-learn feature and straight-forward programming of multiple zones and outputs according to the requirements of each retail unit.” Available for European, Middle East and South East Asian markets, Axis EN is Advanced’s highest performance analog 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. Quality Fire Protection Products Advanced is renowned for making things easy and its products enjoy a reputation for real quality and performance making them the fire systems of choice"Bharat Sharma, Division General Manager for Fire Safety Solutions in India, said: “Due to their complexity, great consideration must go into the fire protection for retail developments, with the Inorbit Mall being no different. Advanced is renowned for making things easy, even on more complex installations, and its products enjoy a reputation for real quality and performance making them the fire systems of choice.” Advanced, owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC, have a long history of protecting some of the most high-profile retail developments around the globe including Westfield Shopping Centre, Sydney and One New Change, London. 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.

One of London’s most prestigious hotels, The Berkeley in Knightsbridge, London, is now protected by a Lux Intelligent emergency lighting test system and MxPro fire panels from Advanced. With a history dating back to the 1800s, the current 214-bedroom Berkeley Hotel was built in 1972, incorporating elements of the original building, and it has recently been subject to a major refurbishment covering all bedrooms, suites, terraces, the lobby, the restaurant, the iconic Blue Bar and the main entrance. Lewis Bowden, spokesperson for Surrey-based Alarm Communication Ltd, the company that specified and installed the system, explained: “Hotels require state of the art emergency lighting systems to safeguard their staff and residents in an emergency situation, helping to facilitate an orderly evacuation and also to guide firefighters coming into the building. As a long-time Advanced partner, we believed that Lux Intelligent, alongside Advanced MxPro fire panels, was the right choice for The Berkeley, offering the stand-out capabilities, features and reliability required of a system of this type.” Luminaires monitored by Lux Intelligent panel Advanced luminaires are monitored and controlled by a Lux Intelligent panel, connected to the building’s fire system More than 200 Advanced luminaires have been installed in the historic hotel, on Wilton Place, which is part of the same stable as Claridge’s. They are monitored and controlled by a Lux Intelligent panel, connected to the building’s fire system. Most of the luminaires are from the Advanced LED-Lite range, which can be recessed into ceilings, offering an aesthetically pleasing solution in the public areas of the prestigious building. Etienne Ricoux, Head of Sales for Advanced, said: “Our Lux Intelligent system offers many benefits including real peace of mind, the ability to work with almost any light, and cost and admin savings. Alongside the MxPro multiprotocol fire panels, we’re proud to be providing market protection to the staff and residents at the Berkley.” Compatible with third-party lights Lux Intelligent ensures all emergency lighting is functioning and compliant to BS5266-1. The system can be retrofitted onto existing wiring and luminaires, keeping installation costs to a minimum. It is one of the most flexible systems available with panels supporting 1-4 loops, 249 devices per loop and up to 200 panels in a network. Lux Intelligent is also compatible with most third-party lights and luminaires, including LEDs, giving installers and end users unprecedented purchasing freedom. Lux Intelligent systems can be remotely managed and monitored using web and iOS apps via the Lux Intelligent Cloud Lux Intelligent systems can be remotely managed and monitored using web and iOS apps via the Lux Intelligent Cloud. Users can add any site in their portfolio to the cloud service and get live system data from site, right down to device level. Fault, test and maintenance reports can be generated from a whole site right down to individual devices. These can be shared with colleagues or maintenance partners in a click. Optimum multiprotocol fire panel The MxPro is the industry’s unbeatable multiprotocol fire panel. Built on almost two-decades of market leadership, it offers greater freedom to specifiers, end users and installers, and includes two panel ranges, the flagship EN54-2, 4 & 13 approved MxPro 5, and the benchmark MxPro 4. Both come in 1-8 loop formats, are compatible with Apollo, Argus, Hochiki and Nittan protocols and can be networked into 200-panel strong systems.

Drones and UAVs being increasing employed to ensure public security Small unmanned aerial vehicles, colloquially known as drones, are being adopted by more public safety agencies around the world than ever before; and the number of lives they’re saving is climbing dramatically. On one recent day, four people were saved by drones, in three separate incidents around the world. Drones Security Drone manufacturer DJI calls it a ‘marked new milestone in public safety drone use,’ in a press release issued last month. On May 31st, Wayne Township Fire Department in Indiana used a drone to drop a life jacket to a fleeing suspect, who had gotten himself into a near drowning situation in a lake. Thermal imaging camera on drones On that same day, officials in a Texas town near Dallas dropped life jackets to a mother and daughter who found themselves in rising floodwater; and police in the UK used a drone with a thermal imaging camera to find a stranded hiker on a dangerous cliff. “We are seeing more and more life-saving stories coming out of these agencies,” says Matt Sloane, CEO of Skyfire Consulting, a group who works with public safety agencies to adopt drone programs. “This technology can no longer be written off as a ‘toy’ or a plaything. It’s a front-line tool in public safety, and it’s already saving lives.”  The UAV is one of the most exciting tools to come along that improves first responder safety and efficiency" UAVs for Public Safety For many agencies, including the Wayne Township Fire Department, the technology has been a game-changer. “In my 32 years working in Public Safety, the UAV is one of the most exciting tools to come along that improves first responder safety and efficiency,” said Captain Mike Pruitt, Wayne Township’s UAV program manager. “The possibilities of what we can do with these aircraft are endless.” Pruitt, who worked with Skyfire to start his drone program, says he’s flying the departments’ aircraft several times a week in his area, and in other parts of Indiana where he’s called to assist. Water-resistant drones They even flew last week in heavy downpours with DJI’s Matrice 210 aircraft, a water-resistant drone. More than 900 public safety agencies around the country are flying drones, according to a recent Bard College study, up 200% from last year’s report, but this is only the tip of the drone iceberg, says Sloane. “There are over 100-thousand public agencies in the US,” he says. “Early adopters like Wayne Township are showing the other 99-thousand agencies out there that this technology can be implemented safely, effectively, and will truly save lives.” Public Safety UAV symposium Skyfire has worked with over 120 of those 900 agencies, including the Los Angeles Fire Department, Orlando Fire Department, Miami-Dade Fire, and most recently, Houston Fire. “Big and small, our clients are taking their response capabilities to the next level, and I don’t see this trend slowing down anytime soon,” Sloane says. Skyfire will be holding a public safety UAV symposium with Memorial Villages Police Department and Houston Fire Department July 30th and 31st in the Houston Area.