Fire Safety Management

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.”

Coopers Fire are excited to launch the ResQ-Window at Firex this year. The ResQ-Window is a vision panel for fire curtains and can be installed allowing building occupants and first responders to see through the curtain after it has been deployed. To find out more about this innovative product, come and see us on our stand (FX320). Coopers Fire will also be promoting their full range of fire and smoke curtains but particularly the recently launched FireMaster Cleanroom fire curtain, the world’s first fire curtain approved for use in a cleanroom environment. Coopers have a number of products due to be launched in 2019. Fire Safety Products This forms part of the ASFP Practical Workshop entitled ‘Auditing & upgrading existing protection’ Coopers Fire will be exhibiting as part of the ASFP Zone. Coopers are proud to be members of the ASFP (Association for Specialist Fire Protection) and will be presenting on the subject of ‘Fire Curtain Operation and Applications’ on day 2 (Weds 19th June 2019) between 10.30am and 11.45am. This forms part of the ASFP Practical Workshop entitled ‘Auditing & upgrading existing protection’. With the increasing focus on fire since the Grenfell disaster, it is becoming more important to ensure fire protection products are fit for purpose. Discussions around updates to Approved Document B are likely to include that all fire safety products specified and installed on construction projects will need third party approval from a reputable business like IFC Certification or Exova’s Certifire scheme. BS 8524 is the only global fire curtain standard and requires third party approval for compliancy. fire Curtain Manufacturers The standard was released in 2013 and helps to ensure that fire curtains are put through rigorous tests in order to be approved. Coopers Fire staff on the Firex stand will only be too happy to discuss our BS 8524 compliant products Coopers Fire are approved and compliant to BS 8524-1 and it is great to see a number of other fire curtain manufacturers are also successfully launching products that are compliant to BS 8524-1; overall, this ensures fire curtains are recognised as a respected fire safety product. Coopers Fire staff on the Firex stand will only be too happy to discuss our BS 8524 compliant products and how they can be used on construction projects. Coopers Fire are dedicated to advancing fire and smoke barrier curtain technology and improving ways to safeguard life and property. Fire Protection Industry This commitment to developing innovative products that are robustly tested and independently certified has meant that Coopers Fire has become the benchmark used by Regulators, Architects, Engineers and other Fire Professionals worldwide. We offer a range of free Continuing Professional Development (CPD) seminars. Approved by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the seminars aim to educate the fire protection industry and wider building industry about application of fire and smoke curtains in buildings.

A new online CPD certified presentation that looks at the benefits of automatic fire sprinklers has been created by the BSA (Business Sprinkler Alliance). The CPD – ‘Property Protection & Business Resilience: Automatic Sprinklers – Background & Benefits’ – is a 25-minute-long video that providers viewers with an awareness of the beneficial impact that incorporating sprinklers can have and how they can add value to building design. It addresses how sprinklers work, typical myths and misconceptions, cost and regulations and looks at the impact of fire on businesses and how sprinklers can aid the design process. Providing Life Safety Suitable for anyone involved in the procurement, design and construction of a building including developers, contractors, surveyors, architects and consultants, the video includes a specific chapter looking at design considerations for office applications include worked examples showing cost implications. “Automatic sprinklers offer a proven way of protecting property as well as providing life safety,” commented Iain Cox, Chairman of the Business Sprinkler Alliance. “However there are many myths and misconceptions about their operation, effectiveness as well as cost. This presentation addresses these misconceptions whilst providing practical design guidance to help specifiers, contractors and engineers understand how sprinklers can add value to their next project.”

AW Technology were delighted to attend the recent, prestigious FIREX 2019 international exhibition. The three-day event brings together the brightest minds, innovators and market leaders in the fire and smoke safety industry. An incredible 130+ exhibitors showcased over 5000 products to thousands of engaged visitors and delegates. AW Technology’s presence at the event was centred around an immersive exhibition stand that featured stunning LED screens, video backdrop and, of course, an example of our existing products and the brand new 9000 series Carbon Monoxide Calibrator. High volume manufacture This new product is an incredibly exciting innovation for AW Technology as it utilises the latest technology to deliver a truly pioneering approach towards calibrating Carbon Monoxide detection products. The product is ideally suited to be used for calibrating and testing CO alarm and detection products in high volume manufacture. It is supported by the very latest software to ensure maximum output and performance. FIREX is a date in the calendar that we always look forward to" Chris Atkiss, Business Development Manager, said: “FIREX is a date in the calendar that we always look forward to. The event provides us with the opportunity for us to engage and mix with the movers and shakers in the industry, and as FIREX is such an international occasion, also allows us to meet our existing customers from across the globe.” Truly pioneering product “We were delighted to be able to launch our brand new 9000 series Carbon Monoxide Calibrator, which will be available to market in early 2020. The feedback we received at FIREX towards the 9000 series has been excellent, and we’re incredibly encouraged by the response.” “Our extensive market-research prior to starting the development of the project indicated that there was a real requirement in the industry for this product and we’re delighted that the market is responding. We’ll have further updates throughout the year on the 9000 series and we look forward to launching this truly pioneering product.”

Patol will be returning to the Firex International exhibition to demonstrate its extensive capabilities in industrial fire protection. The focus on stand FX650 will be one of the more recent additions to Patol’s product range - the Fire Thermal Infrared (FireTIR) detection system. The system features fixed infrared cameras connected to a user-friendly software interface through which the surface temperatures of the area being protected are monitored in real time. Camera Lens Cleaning High or low pre-alarm and alarm set temperatures can be programmed for each zone The image from each camera can be divided into zones, allowing specific risk areas to be identified and to also establish non-detection areas. High or low pre-alarm and alarm set temperatures can be programmed for each zone, with outputs to fire alarm and process control systems. FireTIR is suitable for a wide range of applications, including storage and handling plants, manufacturing industries, transport and power generation. For hazardous areas, camera enclosures are available to IP66 or ATEX certification, with automatic camera lens cleaning ensuring the system is ideally suited to dusty environments. Fibre Optic Option Kelvin Miller, Patol Sales Director, comments - “The FireTIR products are a very natural fit for us as a business and further strengthen our position as a particular specialist in heat detection technologies. Building on our existing portfolio which includes LHDC (linear heat detection cable) and infrared heat and flame sensors, we are able to offer further solutions to the challenges posed by the fire detection requirements of many varied applications. We look forward to demonstrating the capabilities of the system to visitors to the exhibition.” Alongside FireTIR, Patol will also be showing the latest developments in its LHDC products. In addition to the extensive range of cables manufactured by Patol at its Reading facility, the company also offers the Sensa range of fiber optic linear heat detection cables. Kelvin continues - “The addition of the Sensa cable was the missing piece of the LHDC jigsaw and means that we can offer a fiber optic option, as well as our LHDC in both analog (resettable) and digital (non-resettable) options.” Intelligent Fire Detection The Sensa Fibre Optic LHDC system has been providing reliable and intelligent fire detection and asset monitoring on projects throughout the world for more than 20 years. It offers speed of detection, reliability and versatility in monitoring temperature and detecting incipient fires in a range of multi-discipline environments. Alarm levels can be adjusted dependent on the risk levels of the zones Applications for the technology include protection of car parks, monitoring of vessels, automatic storage warehouses and power cable trays, with the capacity to configure the cable in multiple detection zones to meet the specific requirements of a given application. Alarm levels can be adjusted dependent on the risk levels of the zones, providing a programmable platform to suit many fire detection applications and installations. Flame Detection Options Relay contacts communicate the alarm decision directly to the main fire alarm control panel, with the capacity to also interface with third party systems - via a Modbus communications path – to control ventilation or extinguishing systems. Completing the line up for Firex this year will be the conveyor detection systems from Patol. The 5000 Series of infrared transit sensors are available in heat and flame detection options. The suitability of the technology to protect conveyors in particularly challenging environments has been highlighted by a new video shot by Patol at the Aberthaw power station in Wales.

Isover, a manufacturer and supplier of innovative insulation solutions, will be showcasing its U Protect passive fire protection range for HVAC applications at this year’s FIREX International 2019 on stand FX110. A critical risk to address when designing a building is the potential spread of fire within HVAC systems from one compartment to another. As such, at this year’s FIREX International, Isover will be focusing on its U Protect system, which offers passive fire protection for circular and rectangular ductwork. Passive Fire ProtectionThe U Protect slabs and wired mats are manufactured with Isover’s ULTIMATE™ mineral wool insulation The innovative U Protect system has been tested under EN 1366-1 & EN 1366-8 and assessed against BS 476: Part 24, offering up to 2 hours passive fire protection in HVAC ventilation and smoke extract ducts, as well as 1-hour passive fire protection for kitchen ducts. The U Protect slabs and wired mats are manufactured with Isover’s ULTIMATE™ mineral wool insulation, which is produced using an exclusive, patented process and formed of long interwoven fibers. This ensures both excellent fire protection, thermal performance and a significantly reduced weight when compared to traditional stone wool solutions. The insulation also features a black aluminum foil facing for an aesthetically pleasing finish and to help differentiate it from standard HVAC insulation. Thermal Building Regulations To further ensure effective fire protection and a straightforward installation, a full range of accessories are also available within the U Protect system, including intumescent paint, glue, screws and tape. Our U Protect System has been tested and assessed against the key current industry standards" Emmanuel Dupuis, Product Manager of Technical Insulation at Isover said: “Choosing the right insulation for HVAC applications is vital to reduce the risk of a fire spreading from compartment to compartment. Our U Protect System has been tested and assessed against the key current industry standards, providing specifiers with a proven system. “In addition to its fire protection properties, U Protect’s slabs and wired mats also have inherent sound deadening properties and can be used to meet the thermal Building Regulations. They’re also lightweight and easy to install, with no glue or intumescent paint required between the slabs or mats.” Latest Technological Innovations “We are very much looking forward to attending FIREX International this year and explaining the many benefits of our U Protect range to specifiers, contractors and customers – new and existing. As well as featuring a demonstration area, allowing visitors to get ‘hands-on’, our sales team will also be available to answer any questions or discuss any specific project requirements.” FIREX International, which takes place on 18 – 20 June at the London ExCel, is a fire safety exhibition, welcoming over 18,000 fire safety professionals to experience the latest technological innovations and hear from industry leaders - all under one roof, over three days.

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.

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.

Firefighting is hot, hazardous, and let's face it, grueling work. But believe it or not, the job today has become even more challenging as firefighters must deal with increased heat loads, toxic substances and other physical challenges that make structural firefighting one of the most demanding professions on the planet. So, needless to say, being well-trained, physically fit, and safely equipped can make all the difference in the world. Evolving Technology The fact is, as heat loads and toxicity exposure risks increase due to modern synthetic construction, the ways in which fires are fought are changing as well. These shifts, combined with the revolution that’s taking place in firefighter protection technology, have led to new and exciting designs in firefighter personal protective equipment (PPE) offerings. Technology is providing firefighters with respiratory protection “systems” is which respiratory protection itself is just one of many benefits Take the tried and true SCBA for instance. Since the invention of the first breathing apparatus in the late 1910s, their primary function has been air delivery. But today, technology is providing firefighters with respiratory protection “systems” is which respiratory protection itself is just one of many benefits. Revolution Of Life-Changing Technology Consider this: the effects of technology today impact virtually every aspect of modern life. And the same is true for the fire service, as software, thermal imaging, and wireless communications capabilities become more mainstream on the fireground. In response to these new capabilities, the consensus organizations responsible for PPE performance standards (i.e. NFPA and EN) have increased standards by mandating certain electronic components for each firefighter. But performance of these components can be limited by the fact that only so many “parts” can be attached to an SCBA, or because some capabilities are simply out of reach from a budget perspective. Over time, these limitations create long-term implications when it comes to SCBA choice, because the breathing apparatus purchased today may have to be in use for the next 15 years or more. So, what are firefighters to do? Firefighters should view their SCBA as the “foundation” of a safety system that equips firefighters with the many new safety capabilities that technology offers—now and in the future It’s More Than Air Delivery Missed opportunities for more timely safety improvements – which keep up with the pace of technology – are rooted in a false assumption that all SCBA are comprised of separate, mechanical components – and that the SCBA function is only about respiratory protection. But air-delivery is not the issue because every SCBA meets the standards, and every SCBA delivers air well. Further, looking at the SCBA merely as a separate component for air diminishes its potential to serve as a revolutionary safety technology “platform.” Safety As A System Firefighters need more than the minimum performance from breathing apparatus To keep pace with the rapid improvements in firefighter safety, firefighters need more than the minimum performance from breathing apparatus. Instead, they should view their SCBA as the “foundation” of a safety system that equips firefighters with the many new safety capabilities that technology offers—now and in the future. I’m talking specifically about platform-type products that can be easily updated with the latest technology, as soon as it becomes available, to help protect them when their lives are on the line. Key Questions To Consider When Looking For An SCBA Include: Does the SCBA have features that allow you to see, hear, and react quickly to changing situations? Can the SCBA sizing be customized to best fit each firefighter? How many total batteries are needed for the SCBA, and how does that affect long-term costs? How well does it integrate with other systems, such as communication devices, portable instruments, etc.? Does the SCBA provide you, your team, and incident command with critical information to make effective, life-saving decisions? Can the SCBA be programmed to meet your standard operating procedures, such as audible and visual alarms at 50% remaining pressure? Is the facepiece reducing or adding to overall SCBA cost and complexity? How easily can the SCBA be updated to meet changing standards? How easily can integrated accessories or features, such as thermal imaging, be added as they are developed in the future? At MSA, we develop technologically-advanced safety equipment designed to help meet today's changing fireground dynamics. We’re committed to setting the pace for safety with continuous improvements and innovations in PPE. For today. For tomorrow. For the future.

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.

In a fire, a safe, reliable source of power is of paramount importance. Tasked with supplying emergency firefighting power for Victorian mill conversions, Newburn Power Rental’s expertise and commitment to health and safety made them the perfect partner for power safety - instilling confidence should the worst happen. The client, who are converting mills into luxury apartments – initially in and around Leeds, Halifax and Manchester, the centres of Victorian industry – gave Newburn a two-fold job. Providing emergency power to the lifts in the event of a mains failure was one element, with a critical requirement to ensure power for lifts and smoke extraction fans for the emergency services in the event of a fire. Emergency Communication Systems The vital importance of firefighter access and safety is recognised and legislated through numerous Standards and Regulations, and inadequacy or non-adherence can have devastating effects. As LEIA (the trade association and advisory body for the lift and escalator industry) note, the development of British and European Standards has been central to lowering accident rates – both to people using lifts, escalators and lifting platforms, and to those working on them. For firefighting lifts, the requirements are covered by Standard EN 81-72:2105 For firefighting lifts, the requirements are covered by Standard EN 81-72:2105, which replaced the 2003 version and includes changes to the physical structures of firefighter lift systems as well as amendments to requirements for emergency communication systems. The critical element of a firefighting lift is that, unlike a normal lift, it should be designed to operate for a long as is practicable in the event of a fire. Firefighting Equipment In the UK, it is a requirement that buildings with a floor more than 18 metres above or more than 10 metres below fire service vehicle access have a firefighting lift, helping firefighters to move more quickly and more easily through the building and allowing for the transportation of firefighting equipment across multiple floors. The lift installation includes the lift car itself, the lift well and machinery area, along with the control and communications systems. While the Standard EN 81-72:2015 covers all aspects of firefighting lift design, e.g. minimum load; minimum lift car dimensions; speed of travel and specific design, there are also a range of factors that Newburn needed to consider when specifying the power generators for emergency use: robust and reliable back-up (secondary) power supply and the potential for water ingress. Electrical Installations In terms of building structure and power safety, the issue of water ingress needs to be addressed at the design stage In terms of building structure and power safety, the issue of water ingress needs to be addressed at the design stage, including measures such as drainage channels at each landing entrance; ramping up of the floor at the lift’s entrance; as well as methods of prevention of water build-up such as drains or draining pumps permanently installed and fitted outside the lift shaft. There have been instances where water from hose lines has entered a lift well, causing malfunction to electrical installations such as door locks, lift car controls and communications systems, hence it is vital to both reduce the potential for water ingress in the first instance as well as to minimise the effects of water on lift operations to avoid hampering firefighting and evacuation procedures. Fire-Protected Areas Newburn Power Rental’s power supplies, following the Standard, were specified and installed to the appropriate IP rating, to protect the electrical equipment against water ingress. Their generators, which varied from 20kVA up to 60kVA (dependent upon the lift motor sizes) are all installed in fire-protected areas, with fire-protected power cabling. Reliability of power supply – both the mains and the secondary sources – is clearly critical to the safe use of firefighting lifts and this, too, is referenced in the Standard. Mark Henstock, managing director at Newburn Power Rental, comments on this project, “We were approached to undertake this contract based on Newburn’s reputation for reliability and for the weight we place on health and safety at all times.” Reliable Power Supply The importance of secure and reliable power supply in an emergency can’t be over-emphasised" “The importance of secure and reliable power supply in an emergency can’t be over-emphasised. We’ve worked on projects in the past where water ingress is an issue, so have a great deal of experience with managing pumping solutions and circuitry, as well as emergency backup supplies for a whole range of sectors.” “We have a committed workforce – in sales and specification for generators and ancilliaries, as well as in the service and maintenance team. Clearly, both aspects are vital to ensuring that the correct equipment is installed in the first instance, and to making sure that it works efficiently and reliably, should it ever be needed. Since the first installation for this client, we have gone on to work with them on buildings in cities and towns across the North and we look forward to continuing this relationship.”

Tottenham based Lancasterian Primary School is focused on the delivery of a safe and welcoming learning environment, ‘where everyone is included and creativity is valued.’ The school is persistently seeking new ways to enhance and improve its offer to the children and the local community. The school had an established high-profile intruder alarm system on site and consulted with Amthal to create a maintenance program that could operate with no disruption to learning timetables. Safe Learning And Working Environment Proactively worked with us to create a maintenance schedule for our intruder alarm" Says Sam Judge, Lancasterian Primary School’s Assistant Site Manager: “The security of our school is naturally a top priority, to ensure staff and pupils can work and learn in a safe environment. We see a careful balance to ensure our focus on creation of a welcoming and nurturing school for pupils and the local community is not overwhelmed.” “It’s something we are consistently reviewing and when we approached Amthal, we were instantly impressed with their understanding of our objectives. They proactively worked with us to create a maintenance schedule for our intruder alarms, to ensure they continue to operate to maximum capacity for the ultimate protection of all who learn with us, and provide total peace of mind and assurance to the site management team.” Well-Maintained Security System An effective school building security alarm system for which users are fully trained" Mark Golding, Amthal Account Manager added: “Ensuring that pupils, buildings and equipment are protected requires an effective school building security alarm system for which users are fully trained, alarm systems that are regularly maintained and service inspections that are logged and documented.”  A well-maintained system will ensure compliance with building safety regulations and also help to ensure the school passes OFSTED with flying colours. Amthal is thrilled to be working with schools such as Lancasterian Primary to ensure its security for the benefit of staff, pupils and visitors.” Satisfying User Needs Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire & security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE.)

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.

Ramtech Electronics, supplier of the UK’s wireless fire alarm systems, is flying high at the £1bn Manchester Airport Transformation Project following deployment of its WES3 and WES REACT platforms. As one of the largest construction programmes in the North of England, the transformation will more than double the capacity of the airport when it is completed in 2020. The complex project comprises the expansion of the Terminal 2 building, to become the airport’s primary terminal along with The Link, a new bridging space as well as new stands and piers, offering better departure gate facilities. Minimizing False Alarms WES3 is a completely wireless, EN54-compliant fire alarm system designed specifically for complex construction projects Laing O’Rourke, the main contractor of the project has specified a combination of WES3 and WES REACT to protect the 1,500 construction personnel that will be on site at its peak. These two innovative systems combine to provide construction teams with a simple and secure means of communicating fire, medical and similar site emergencies. WES3 is a completely wireless, EN54-compliant fire alarm system designed specifically for complex construction projects such as this. Features include a medical alert, allowing an alarm to be raised in the event of a medical emergency from any call point without having to cause a complete site evacuation. Also, an Inspection Delay feature, which enables site personnel to verify that the alarm is genuine before deciding whether to evacuate site, therefore minimizing false alarms.   Wireless Mesh Networks When used in conjunction with the WES REACT cloud-based mobile app, WES3 becomes a total fire alarm solution. All WES3 manual call points in their respective zones are interlinked, creating four individual wireless mesh networks, that can be activated simply by activating any call point on site. Once internal fitout begins, WES3 heat and smoke detectors will be added to the system, to provide automatic protection on site 24 hours a day. WES3 utilizes the best quality Category 1, Euro-harmonised radio in compliance with European standards covering the use of radio technology in emergency equipment (ETSI 300-220-1), meaning it won’t interfere with other radio-based systems used on or near the airport. All Point Network The challenges at Manchester Airport Transformation Project were centered on the need for a wireless fire alarm system that was scalable to a project of this size, whilst being fast and easy to reposition the call points. To put this into context, it is the fastest growing construction project in the UK with £1m of new infrastructure added each day. The system also overcame the challenge of scale by incorporating link units into the call point network to boost the wireless signal over larger distances Being a wireless system means that WES3 call points can easily be added and removed as the build progresses, and there’s no wiring, so no need for specialist installation. The system also overcame the challenge of scale by incorporating link units into the call point network to boost the wireless signal over larger distances. The WES3 system was split into four zones covering four concurrent developments within the overall project. Cloud-Based Monitoring All units in their respective zones are interlinked, creating a completely secure wireless mesh network. Andrew Swindells, Laing O’Rourke Programme Health & Safety Lead, explained: “Manchester Airport Transformation Project is a large and complex development and at its peak there will be over a thousand workers on site. We specified WES3 because it is a wireless system, making it very easy to set up and reposition as well as being fully compliant with EN54. WES REACT also provides us with a highly effective cloud-based monitoring platform.” WES3 has a three-year battery life under normal usage, reducing maintenance costs and waste on site. Once the development at Manchester Airport is completed Laing O’Rourke can simply transfer the units to another project as and when required.

Logan County Emergency Operations Center implements MicroAutomation's NG9-1-1 The Logan County Emergency Operations Center, located in Logan County WV, seamlessly migrated to MicroAutomation’s Next Generation 9-1-1 Solution, Omni911. Logan County signed a contract with MicroAutomation in May 2018 and had an urgent need to replace a legacy system that was not meeting the County’s needs. Omni911 software-based NG9-1-1 solution "MicroAutomation implemented their Omni911 solution in record time,” stated Ted Sparks, Director, Logan County Emergency Operations Center. “We had an urgent need to replace our legacy solution and wanted to ensure that we plan for a seamless migration to our NG9-1-1 solution. The MicroAutomation project team put my mind at ease from the beginning, and I was confident that this would be a project that we can all be proud of. Omni911 is highly configurable, and it allowed us to create a familiar user environment that allowed our users to transition seamlessly to the new solution. We look forward to having a lasting relationship with MicroAutomation." MicroAutomation, renowned public safety marketplace, developed and implemented Omni911, a software-based NG9-1-1 solution. Omni911 is NENA i3 compliant, ICE validated and will work seamlessly within any legacy or future PSAP environment. Purpose-built, MicroAutomation’s software-based solutions provide a complete suite of call-taking and emergency response functions that comply with the evolving NENA i3 standards. Reinforced by MicroAutomation’s 24x7x365 support, these systems are built to scale and evolve with the increasing demands facing emergency operations centers of all types and sizes. MicroAutomation’s software-based solutions “We are pleased to establish a partnership with Logan County,” says Faysal Tay, MicroAutomation’s Vice President of Emergency Operations Solutions. “Logan County needed a solution urgently to replace their legacy E9-1-1 system. Our focus was to deliver a solution expeditiously that is configured the optimum way to create easy-to-remember workflows, so the Logan County team can focus on what they do best, delivering critical 9-1-1 services. Together we were able to cut live to our Omni911 solution in only six weeks.”