Flammable Material Control
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews are working to clear a major spill of combustible liquid at Mascot, in Sydney's inner south. The operation began around 4:30 am when two semi-trailers collided at the intersection of O'Riordan Street and Joyce Drive, near the Domestic Airport. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated both drivers on-site for minor injuries. Combustible hydrocarbon liquid Both roads were closed to maintain community safety and enable effective emergency response One of the trucks was...
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews are battling a large warehouse fire at Five Dock, in Sydney's inner west. Shortly after 3 pm, FRNSW received multiple Triple-Zero (000) calls reporting large volumes of smoke issuing from the warehouse on Parramatta Road. On arrival, 18 FRNSW trucks and more than 60 firefighters began controlling the fire, which was rapidly moving through a warehouse containing multiple businesses, amid concerns the fire would spread to adjoining properties. Thermal imaging c...
Seven people have been treated for smoke inhalation after a lithium-ion battery from an e-bike exploded in a unit in Sydney overnight. Seven Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) trucks and 28 firefighters responded to an initial automatic fire alarm in a 26-storey unit block in George Street around 11.50pm. A battery was charging in the lounge room of a unit on the sixth floor when it exploded and caught fire. FRNSW Evacuation The occupants managed to escape and the automatic sprinkler system extingu...
Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection (Teledyne GFD) is supporting its business presence in the Middle East by partnering with Industrial Detection Solutions (IDS) to establish a new 699 m² manufacturing facility in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This partnership will enable the local production of high-precision sensors for detecting toxic and combustible gases, helping to protect workers and assets at oil and gas production/drilling facilities, LNG/CNG plants, and refining and petro...
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews have extinguished an e-bike battery fire before it could take hold and harm residents or property overnight at Guildford in Sydney’s west. The owner, who had only obtained the second-hand e-bike the day before, placed the battery into the bike shortly after 2.00 am this morning, noticing a small spark soon after. As a precaution, the owner removed the battery from the e-bike and threw it into an outside courtyard. Battery catches fire The battery then...
Healthcare environments are synonymous with caution, wellness and safety. Though, where National Health Service professionals work determinedly to meet the needs of their patients, equally as vital are the fire door safety procedures practiced throughout NHS premises. Fire safety management plays a crucial role in all healthcare settings, where protecting staff, visitors and potentially vulnerable patients is a continuous effort. Highest level of fire safety A survey led by BWF found that 52%...
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A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is an essential component of their organisation’s overall Fire Risk Management Strategy. As with all fire safety measures, the primary goal of a risk assessment is to keep people safe. Virtually all buildings in England and Wales are required, by law, to undertake a Fire Risk Assessment (except for domestic dwellings). This article will explain the process of carrying out a Fire Risk Assessment, their responsibilities under Fire Safety legislation, as well as proposed changes as to who can carry out an assessment. What happens in a fire risk assessment? A fire risk assessment is an audit of a building’s current fire safety measures. If necessary, the assessment will include detailed recommendations to improve its fire safety. It is an organised, methodical, and thorough look at their premises, the activities carried on there and the likelihood that a fire could start and cause harm to those in and around the premises. The aim of a fire risk assessment is to: Identify the potential fire hazards including sources of ignition and sources of fuel Identify people at risk including people especially at risk e.g. Evaluate, Remove, Reduce and Protect from risk Record, Plan, Inform, Instruct, Train Monitor, Review and Revise as required Fire risk assessment Good management of fire safety is essential to ensure that fires are unlikely to occur Good management of fire safety is essential to ensure that fires are unlikely to occur; that if they do occur, they are likely to be controlled or contained quickly, effectively, and safely. Also, if a fire did occur and spread, everyone in their premises can escape to a place of total safety, easily and quickly. The terms ‘hazard’ and ‘risk’ are used frequently throughout the fire risk assessment. Let’s define those words now, as it can be overwhelming to see such alarming words relating to their business! A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm. Whereas a risk is the chance of that harm occurring. Understanding fire hazards Knowing how to interpret the fire risk assessment will also help users better understand fire hazards It’s like going back to the driving lessons! A child riding a bike on the side of the narrow road is a hazard, so users reduce the risk of an accident by slowing down and being more alert. For example: storing flammable or dangerous substances on the premises is a hazard and the risk is how likely it is to ignite. The risk may be reduced but the hazard remains. Knowing how to interpret the fire risk assessment will also help users better understand fire hazards and how to reduce the risk of serious incidents. Fire risk assessment guidance The Fire Safety Order, which is legislation covering England and Wales, recommends the Five Step Approach in its fire risk assessment guidance: Step 1: Identify the fire hazards -This step involves identifying any potential sources of ignition, such as fuel, oxygen or anything else that’s flammable, including electrical items. Step 2: Identify people at risk - Users must consider all the people who use the premises, but they should pay particular attention to people who may be especially at risk. This could be members of staff, visitors, or the general public. Step 3: Evaluate, remove, or reduce the risks - The next step in conducting a fire risk assessment is to evaluate the risk of a fire occurring and consider the risk to people. They should consider: Fire detection and warning systems Firefighting equipment such as extinguishers and hose reels Escape routes and their accessibility Emergency lighting Signage, notices, and communication during an emergency Maintenance of all the above Step 4: Record, plan, inform, instruct and train - Record the significant findings including action taken and prepare an emergency plan. Inform and instruct relevant people. Co-operate and co-ordinate with others Provide appropriate training to those who need it Step 5: Regularly Review - Keep the fire risk assessment under regular review and revise where necessary, for example if the layout of the building or premises changes over time. Is it a legal requirement to conduct a Fire Risk Assessment? Yes. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is legislation that covers England and Wales. It sets the standard for fire safety in all non-domestic premises. (Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate fire safety legislation) Fire safety legislation The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), who are responsible for enforcing this legislation tells them in their “Enforcers Guidance”: “Any fire risk assessment must be reviewed by the responsible person regularly so as to keep it up to date. There is no definition of regularly but annually is generally accepted to be best practice.” The penalty for failing to comply with the Fire Safety Order include large fines or a prison sentence. The assessment should be a living document that is subject to ongoing review of sufficient frequency to keep the assessment updated with any changes to the risks on the premises. HM Government guidance Consider the risks in terms of the P’s: People – Changes to occupant dependency e.g. changes to the mobility profile of occupants within the premises. Property - Purpose group, structure, layout of the premises. Processes - This may be management processes or activities carried out in relation to fire safety Who can conduct a Fire Risk Assessment? Recent proposed changes to legislation are considering that future Fire Risk Assessments will require “specialist knowledge and the expertise of the fire risk assessor” which means that all fire risk assessments will soon have to be carried out by an accredited professional, such as someone who is BAFE Certified. If users are responsible person for the business, they may be asking “Can I do it myself?” Well, in small or low-risk premises this may be possible using the suite of HM Government guidance, but those carrying out a fire risk assessment must be satisfied that they are able to: Maintenance of fire precautions Identify any possible fire hazards (all potential causes of fire) Identify people who are at risk Evaluate fire safety measures provided and/or required to protect people (escape routes and fire alarm systems) Review the procedural arrangements for management of fire safety (fire procedures, staff training, fire drills, maintenance of fire precautions, etc.) Formulate an emergency action plan Record the significant findings during a fire risk assessment and implement an action plan Keep the assessment up to date The key here is to know their limits. Understanding of fire safety Firerite provides third-party certificated fire risk assessments to NSI Gold BAFE SP205 accreditation If they feel, having read the guidance, that users do not have an appropriate knowledge or understanding of fire safety and the risk to people from fire to comply effectively with the legislative requirements; or, that they are unable to invest sufficient time and resources to do justice to this important task, users will need to appoint a BAFE Certified specialist like FireRite and then maintain close involvement in the process. Firerite provides third-party certificated fire risk assessments to NSI Gold BAFE SP205 accreditation backed by UKAS. Users can also search for competent BAFE-certified fire risk assessors from the NSI Directory and BAFE. Potential hazards and risks Conducting a regular fire risk assessment is a vital part of managing their premises and ensuring its safety for the people who use it. The key points to take away are: A fire risk assessment identifies potential hazards and risks, and who is at risk from them The assessment will recommend how to reduce or remove the identified risks Users can use their fire risk assessment to inform, guide, instruct and educate the staff An assessment should be kept under regular review. Speak to use about their fire risk assessment! The Firerite team, based in South Wales has extensive knowledge of delivering a range of fire protection services, consultancy, and fire risk assessments across a variety of sectors and buildings. They offer a cost-effective, professional service that will meet the current legislative requirements.
Since the onset of the pandemic, most companies have become familiar with issuing alcohol gel in the form of hand sanitizer for staff, customers and visitors. This is understandable because it’s a good way of ensuring no germs, viruses and bacteria are passed on when surfaces are touched. But, as a manager or procurement officer, just how au fait are users with storing these highly-flammable liquids? It’s important to do so carefully because of the high alcohol content in the gel – anything from 60% to 95% – means it could prove a chemical fire hazard. Alcohol-based sanitizers In other words, hand sanitizer can ignite very quickly when exposed to a naked flame or other forms of heat such as heat generated from friction or sparks. The higher the alcohol content the more effective the gel (i.e. it actually kills rather than ‘dampens’ bacteria) and the more flammable the product. That way, they’ll have less opportunity to burn themselves should they go near a naked flame In fact, alcohol-based sanitizers like the kind most of us encounter on a daily basis are in fact graded ‘Class I Flammable’. This means they become a chemical fire hazard with heat below one hundred degrees Fahrenheit, 37.8℃. And, on that point, anyone using the gel should rub it in completely until their hands are dry. That way, they’ll have less opportunity to burn themselves should they go near a naked flame. Hand sanitizer storage Hand sanitizer storage is important. If stored and used properly, the fire hazard aspect of the gel shouldn’t pose any type of problem or fire risk. This is particularly important for bigger quantities of liquid, i.e. more than 100mls. According to fire regulations issued by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), users should avoid putting sanitizer gels in a cupboard near any heat or ignition sources, i.e. a cooker, fire, electrical outlet, switch or any type of electrical equipment. Fire resistant cabinet Good hand sanitizer storage means avoiding oxidizing agents too, such as nitric acid or acetyl chloride Good hand sanitizer storage means avoiding oxidizing agents too, such as nitric acid or acetyl chloride. They strongly recommend against storing quantities of fluid in areas used for means of escape and circulation routes and spaces. What’s more, storage should be in a fire resistant cabinet or cupboard and away from sources of heat, friction or sparks. It’s also important to display and keep up-to-date Safety Data Sheets and COSHH Regs. There are some good reference guides and ebased risk assessment tools on the HSE website regarding the storage of large quantities of substances. They also recommend reading the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) - COSHH guidance which explores sorting large quantities of substances post COVID-19. What Happens In The Event Of Spilled Liquid? The best type of lid for an alcohol-based sanitizer (or any kind of alcohol-based substance for that matter), is one that flips open. That way it’s less likely to spill out in large quantities. However, if a cap lid comes loose, the entire contents can run out. This means it could fall onto clothing, textiles and bedding, causing these to become a potential fire hazard. Fire regulations advise that in the event of a spillage immediately remove all sources of ignition Fire regulations advise that in the event of a spillage immediately remove all sources of ignition and wipe up the liquid. Don’t forget to dispose of waste materials carefully ideally outside away from the building in a lockable, non flammable waste bin. Small fire extinguisher If the worst happens and the gel does ignite, then it can be quickly put out using a small fire extinguisher. A fire blanket can smother the flames. Most of them have heard of the phrase ‘Stop, drop and roll’ if the clothes are on fire. Users should then smother themselves with a fire blanket, submerge their hands in cold or lukewarm water. For information on how to treat burns to the skin, go to the Burns and Scalds page on the NHS website. It’s also worth pointing out that soap and water are actually the best method to rid hands of germs and prevent passing on of any viruses, etc. Sanitizers should really only be used when there’s no access to a sink and soap.
Renewable hydrogen is set to play a crucial role in the energy transition. European member states are already experimenting with this promising energy carrier, and they are testing how they can repurpose existing natural gas distribution networks to bring hydrogen to the consumer. Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas. That is why technical staff working on these hydrogen distribution networks will need to be trained for safety. They will also need to be equipped with the right tools to detect hydrogen leaks and see hydrogen flames in time. One such tool is the thermal imaging camera. Clean energy transition Hydrogen is enjoying renewed and growing attention around the world. In Europe for example, hydrogen is considered as a key priority to achieve the European Green Deal and Europe’s clean energy transition. Hydrogen is also an interesting alternative for heating old or historic buildings It can be used as a feedstock, a fuel or an energy carrier and storage, and has many possible applications across the industry, transport and power sectors. Hydrogen is also an interesting alternative for heating old or historic buildings, which are typically difficult to insulate, and as a result, where all-electric heat pumps are not practical. Environmentally friendly way Although hydrogen is seen as a clean energy carrier, it is not always produced in a clean way. There are several ways to create it. Gray hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels (methane) through a process called steam reforming and results in the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2). Blue hydrogen also relies on this principle, although 80% to 90% of the emitted CO2 during the process is captured and stored underground. As the name suggests, green hydrogen is the most environmentally friendly way to produce hydrogen. This is done through electrolysis, which means using renewable electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Unlike other renewable energies, hydrogen has the potential for being stored in large quantities for later use. Dedicated hydrogen pipeline The storage potential of hydrogen is particularly beneficial for power grids This is where hydrogen becomes interesting, from an environmental and climate standpoint. When produced at times when solar and wind energy resources are abundantly available, renewable “green hydrogen” can support the world’s electricity needs, providing long-term and large-scale storage. The storage potential of hydrogen is particularly beneficial for power grids, because it allows for renewable energy to be kept not only in large quantities but also for long periods of time. With all its potential for green energy, the question remains how hydrogen, once produced, can be efficiently delivered to the consumer or to the point of use in large quantities. Until now, the market has been discouraged by the substantial expenses that are associated with establishing a dedicated hydrogen pipeline or delivery infrastructure. Natural gas pipelines Another option that has been gaining more attention in recent years is converting the existing natural gas distribution network for the passage of hydrogen. Obviously, hydrogen and natural gas have different characteristics – for example in terms of flammability, density, and ease of dispersion – but with the infrastructure for natural gas already in place, a conversion for hydrogen distribution could be economically interesting. Several demonstration projects and proofs of concept across Europe have already demonstrated that with a few adjustments, hydrogen can be injected into existing natural gas pipelines and delivered to a wide range of end-point applications. Private gas network In 2020, a pilot hydrogen project went operational in the UK. The HyDeploy demonstration showed that it was possible to blend up to 20% of hydrogen with normal gas supply into Keele University’s private gas network, which serves 17 faculty buildings and 100 domestic properties. Also in the UK, a feasibility study - the H21 Leeds City Gate report – was carried out, confirming that conversion of the UK gas network to 100% hydrogen was both technically possible and could be delivered at a realistic cost. Another pilot project started in 2022, in Lochem’s Berkeloord district (the Netherlands). There, twelve homes are heated using hydrogen transported over the existing natural gas grid. In Hoogeveen, the Netherlands, the development of the world’s first hydrogen district was planned for 2023. Hydrogen distribution networks Hydrogen (H) is a gaseous substance that is the simplest member of the family of chemical elements These projects must demonstrate that hydrogen is a safe, comfortable and affordable alternative to natural gas. At the time of writing, many more demonstration and pilot projects are being developed, which shows the growing interest in the development of hydrogen distribution networks. Hydrogen (H) is a gaseous substance that is the simplest member of the family of chemical elements. Under ordinary conditions, hydrogen gas is a loose aggregation of hydrogen molecules, each consisting of a pair of atoms, a diatomic molecule, H2. Availability: hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe but only makes up only about 0.14 percent of Earth’s crust by weight. Diffusivity: hydrogen’s greatest advantage, in terms of safety, is its ability to diffuse through the air much faster than other gaseous fuels, making it less likely to accumulate. Toxicity: colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic Flammability: hydrogen is a highly flammable gas. Its broad flammability limits and low ignition energy increase risk. Visibility: Unlike methane and gasoline fires, hydrogen burns with a nearly invisible flame in daylight. However, contaminants in the air can create some visibility. Hydrogen distribution pipeline Research has shown that hydrogen can be used to displace natural gas from existing natural gas pipelines Now they know that existing infrastructure can be used: how can existing gas distribution pipelines be safely decommissioned as a natural gas pipeline and (simultaneously) commissioned as a hydrogen pipeline during the conversion to a hydrogen network? From a practical standpoint, the distribution pipes will need to be purged. Natural gas will need be let out and hydrogen gas will need to be let in. Research has shown that hydrogen can be used to displace natural gas from existing natural gas pipelines, and that a natural gas distribution pipeline can immediately be recommissioned as a hydrogen distribution pipeline after the natural gas has been displaced. Thermal imaging camera A test set-up with natural gas and hydrogen flares: with a visual camera, the hydrogen flares are not or hardly visible. However, a thermal imaging camera can visualize them based on the thermal radiation the hydrogen flares emit. One frequently used technique when purging pipes is flaring. This is a safety measure often employed in industrial settings where hydrogen is used. The process involves burning off excess hydrogen in a controlled manner. Hydrogen flaring is typically done during maintenance, leak detection, or other situations where there is excess hydrogen that cannot be safely stored or disposed of in a controlled way. Unexpected flame movements Maintenance workers should therefore wear protective clothing that can withstand the heat Although hydrogen is not toxic, there are specific hazards associated with working with hydrogen gas, and flaring it poses certain risks. Just like many other gases, hydrogen is highly flammable and can ignite rapidly in the presence of oxygen. Maintenance workers should therefore wear protective clothing that can withstand the heat and be aware of temperature conditions to avoid burns. Maintenance workers should also use tools that are intrinsically safe to avoid spark discharge accidents. Monitoring hydrogen flares To safely work with hydrogen, technical staff needs to be trained and they need to use the appropriate tools. One of the difficulties when working with hydrogen during flaring activities is that a hydrogen flame is not always visible. Hydrogen is also very light and – since flaring is done in open air – technical workers always need to be on guard for unexpected flame movements due to wind bursts. To ensure safety, technical staff need a better view of the flame during flaring works. Some of the most frequently used technologies to monitor hydrogen flares are thermocouples, ultraviolet (UV) sensors and infrared (IR) sensors. Sometimes, certain contaminants like water or dust are added to the hydrogen, which makes the flame more visible. Ideal complementary tool Although hydrogen flames are invisible during daylight, they do emit thermal radiation Although all above-mentioned technologies are valuable to detect hydrogen fast and accurately, they are missing one essential feature: they do not allow to actually see a hydrogen flame. That is why thermal imaging cameras are the ideal complementary tool. Although hydrogen flames are invisible during daylight, they do emit thermal radiation. Thermal cameras can detect these temperature changes, allowing technical staff to visualize the exact movement of the flames and safely approach a hydrogen flame. Monitoring hydrogen flares Thermal imaging cameras are an indispensable tool for anyone working on hydrogen pipelines or monitoring hydrogen flares. Here’s why: Improved situational awareness: Thermal imaging cameras provide a visual representation of the entire scene, including the hydrogen flare installation. This offers improved situational awareness, which can be particularly useful in industrial settings where multiple processes are ongoing. Improved staff safety: Thermal cameras allow technical staff to monitor flames from a safe distance. They don’t have to approach the flame closely, and the detection sensors inside a thermal camera do not need to make physical contact with the flame. Multiple uses: Thermal imaging cameras have a broad range of applications, beyond flame detection. They can be used for electrical inspections, mechanical inspections, and more. This versatility makes them a very economical tool for a range of maintenance and safety tasks Seeing temperature differences: Thermal imaging cameras enable maintenance workers to visualize subtle temperature differences. This enables them to detect not only flames, but also hotspots, overheating problems, and other potential issues related to possible equipment malfunctions. Fewer false alarms: Unlike flame detectors in certain environments, thermal imaging cameras are less prone to false alarms caused by non- flame sources such as sunlight, welding arcs, or hot surfaces. Greater situational awareness Thermal and acoustic cameras from FLIR support technical maintenance professionals in safely working in hydrogen environments. FLIR cameras provide users with detail-rich thermal images in a variety of thermal color palettes enabling greater situational awareness and understanding. Some of the most suitable camera solutions for hydrogen flame monitoring include: FLIR ONE® Edge Series Thermal Cameras with Wireless Connectivity FLIR Cx5 Hazardous Location- Rated Thermal Camera FLIR K-Series High-Performance TIC for Firefighting FLIR Cx-Series Compact Thermal Cameras FLIR Ex Pro-Series Infrared Cameras with Ignite™ Cloud In addition, the following technology allows inspectors to detect gas leaks, either by visualizing an added tracer gas (CO2) or by visualizing the sound of a leak. FLIR G343 Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) Camera for CO2 FLIR Si2-LD Industrial Acoustic Imaging Camera for Pressurized Leak Detection and Mechanical Fault Detection
Rosenbauer America, a pioneering manufacturer of fire apparatus and firefighting equipment, will be showcasing its latest advancements in technology at FDIC International 2025 in Indianapolis, IN. Attendees are invited to visit Rosenbauer's indoor exhibit (booth #3413) at the Indiana Convention Center (ICC) and the outdoor demonstration area on South Street to experience firsthand the company's commitment to unmatched operational performance and firefighter safety. Featured Fire Apparatus Rosenbauer’s FDIC 2025 exhibit will include a comprehensive lineup of fire apparatus designed to meet the diverse needs of fire departments for multiple vocational applications: RTX Electric Pumper PANTHER electric ARFF COMMANDER™ Custom Industrial Foam Pumper COMMANDER™ King Cobra 101’ Articulating Aerial Platform COMMANDER™ Cobra 100’ Mid Mount Aerial Platform COMMANDER™ T-Rex Aerial Platform COMMANDER™ Viper 78’ Aerial Ladder COMMANDER™ Side Mount Custom Pumper COMMANDER™ Top Mount Custom Pumper COMMANDER™ Custom Pumper with IDEX SAM System WARRIOR™ Custom Rescue International™ LCS Commercial Pumper Freightliner™ Commercial Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Innovative Fire Apparatus Technology Rosenbauer will also highlight its advanced technologies designed to enhance firefighting and rescue capabilities for municipalities, industrial sites, and airports: NEW Custom Industrial Foam Pumper: Engineered for extreme hazard environments, this pumper delivers exceptional pumping capabilities combined with world-class foam proportioning with superior monitor performance for industrial firefighting applications. NEW PANTHER electric ARFF: As the first fully electric ARFF vehicle, the PANTHER electric delivers powerful firefighting capabilities with zero emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future for airport fire services. Logic Control System (LCS): Providing a uniform, intuitive user interface across Rosenbauer vehicles, the LCS simplifies operations in the most challenging situations. Operators can easily control the pump, foam system, monitors, scene lights, and other critical functions from multiple points on the apparatus, allowing personnel to focus on the critical mission at hand. Rosenbauer RTX Electric Pumper: The revolutionary RTX electric pumper offers a modular design with an electric drivetrain, providing exceptional maneuverability, reduced noise for improved communications, incredible ergonomics for firefighter health and safety, and lower emissions. King Cobra Articulating Aerial Platform: This unique articulating aerial platform provides unparalleled reach and the ability to navigate around obstacles, offering firefighters access to previously unreachable areas. RTE Robot: A versatile remote-controlled robot designed for hazardous environments, the RTE Robot can assist with reconnaissance, suppression, and other critical tasks, enhancing fire ground safety. Battery Extinguishing System Technology (BEST): This advanced technology offers an innovative and effective method for extinguishing fires in electric vehicles and battery storage systems. Drill-X: This unique handheld tool combines drilling and suppression capabilities in one system, allowing firefighters to quickly penetrate structures and apply water directly to the fire source. Cuttex: A powerful handheld cutting tool designed for rapid breaching of various materials that provides firefighters with efficient access during multiple operational scenarios. Rosenbauer N & NH Pumps: These high-performance pumps are engineered for reliable and efficient water delivery, providing the necessary pressure and flow for effective fire suppression. Rosenbauer Live Demonstrations Attendees are encouraged to visit Rosenbauer’s outdoor demonstration area on South Street to experience the performance of Rosenbauer apparatus firsthand: Aerial Demonstrations: Experience the incredible capabilities of the Viper Aerial Ladder, Cobra Aerial Platform, King Cobra Articulating Aerial Platform, and the T-Rex Aerial Platform. Attendees will be able to explore their reach, maneuverability, stability, and operational ease. HEAT Event Participation: Rosenbauer will participate in the Handling, Evaluation, and Tactics (HEAT) event each day, showcasing the unsurpassed capabilities of the PANTHER electric and RTX electric fire apparatus, as well as the versatility of the RTE Robot in live fire scenarios. RTX and PANTHER Electric Ride & Drive: Following the HEAT events, attendees will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel and experience the innovative electric drivetrains of the RTX fire apparatus and PANTHER electric ARFF. RTE Robot Operation: Take control of the Rosenbauer RTE Robot and explore its diverse applications for fire departments, from reconnaissance and victim location to remote firefighting. Handheld Firefighting Tools: Test the effectiveness of the Rosenbauer Drill-X and Cuttex at interactive demonstration stations, experiencing their capabilities in simulated roof cutting and wall breaching scenarios. Fire Department Coffee Meet & Greet A highlight at Rosenbauer America’s indoor exhibit (booth #3413) will be the daily serving of Fire Department Coffee (FDC). Attendees are invited to start their day or grab an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of FDC. Adding to the excitement, special guests Jason Patton and Firefighter Fenton from Fire Department Coffee will be making an appearance for a meet and greet on Friday, April 11, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM (ET).
As workplaces have evolved over the past year or so companies should have a flexible mind as to how to best keep the office/workplace compliant. The first point is often to check the risk assessment is up to date and make sure it stays adaptable to reflect the current working practices. If users have implemented a new hybrid working practice, altered the building layout, or changed how the building is used there is an onus on the Responsible Person to consider in the Fire Risk Assessment; Change in travel distances Escape Routes Frequency of fire alarm testing and Maintenance Frequency of fire evacuation drills The recent pandemic has impelled many businesses into offering new ways of working to keep their staff safe, including working from home. Receiving dedicated training While staff has welcomed this new flexibility, understandably it has generated a number of restrictions, particularly on the availability of trained staff to fulfil required safety roles, such as that of the Fire Warden. As users have acknowledged traditionally, fire safety has been shared amongst a dedicated group of trained individuals selected from within the workforce. Often referred to as Fire Wardens or Fire Marshals, each should have received dedicated training for their role. Fire escape plan Fire Wardens play a crucial role in preserving the continuity of the workplace Along with the organisation’s evacuation and fire escape plan, Fire Wardens play a crucial role in preserving the continuity of the workplace and are prepared for a fire emergency, often acting as first responders in a fire situation, and raising awareness regarding fire hazards that exist within the workplace. ‘How many fire marshals do I need?’ was a question we were often asked during the Pandemic by a range of businesses, of course the number of fire marshals users need will be dependent on the nature of the business and size of the workforce. Sufficient instruction and training In the UK, it is a legal requirement for organisations to have trained people in place to assist with a range of activities such as firefighting, evacuation, and providing fire safety assistance. The challenge is to achieve this with the now limited people available in the office. Article 21.2 of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (The FSO) The Responsible Person must ensure that the employee's safety training includes suitable and sufficient instruction and training on the appropriate precautions and actions to be taken by the employee in order to safeguard themselves and other relevant persons on the premises. It is obvious that a high-risk business with many employees will require more fire wardens than a low-risk business with just a handful of employees. If the staff work shifts, then users will also need to ensure that there are an appropriate number of fire wardens on-site during each shift. High-risk business The level of fire risk in their business will dictate how many fire marshals users should have Firstly, decide if users are a low risk, normal risk, or high-risk business. The level of fire risk in their business will dictate how many fire marshals users should have. There is no legal definition of low, normal, or high risk with regards to fire safety as it depends on many factors. If users feel unqualified to determine the risk level of the premises, or uncomfortable doing so, then check the Fire Risk Assessment, as it should have classified their premises for users. Some considerations; i. Low Fire Risk: Premises where there are: limited combustible materials virtually no sources of ignition premises that are traditionally built and well maintained no high-risk groups, such as the young, elderly, or disabled occupants that could escape quickly and safety in the event of a fire fire safety measures that are considered adequate and well maintained ii. Normal Fire Risk: Premises where there are: some combustible or highly flammable materials some sources of heat which could ignite a fire premises that may not be traditionally built a small number of high-risk individuals, (see above) a fire is likely to remain confined to room of origin or spread slowly, allowing people time to escape fire safety measures are adequate and well maintained iii. High Fire Risk: Premises where there are: substantial quantities of combustible or highly flammable materials sources of heat which could easily ignite a fire an unconventional layout or construction making it harder to escape easily risks that a fire could spread rapidly a large number of high-risk individuals, (see above) fire safety measures that are poorly maintained Fire safety measures To estimate the number of fire wardens required, users should have a system in place To estimate the number of fire wardens required, users should have a system in place to know how many workers will be in the office on any day. A rota or schedule is an effective way to ensure coverage while also seeing immediately who the fire wardens are if something should happen. Not stipulated but commonly for low-risk commercial properties one fire warden for every fifty staff would be sufficient, medium risk properties require one warden for every twenty staff, and high-risk properties require one warden for every fifteen staff. Low-risk commercial properties That said there is no set figure, users need to use their discretion during a risk assessment for fire safety to determine the level of risk and calculate the amount needed for their premises. Consider the number of buildings and floors, the number and type of occupants, the type of work conducted, the number of shifts, sickness, and leave. This position simplifies and separates the role away from the Fire Warden Businesses should review their resource options and possibly create an intermediate role of a dedicated ‘Evacuation Marshal’ requiring less training. This position simplifies and separates the role away from the Fire Warden so they can help as necessary during an emergency evacuation, this role deals specifically with the task of checking if each area of the building is clear, and reporting that information to the relevant person, building evacuation can then be achieved quickly and efficiently. Basic fire awareness Basically, everyone in the organisation needs some form of training/understanding from basic fire awareness to know what to do if they see a fire, or if they need to evacuate the building in response to a fire alarm, through fire wardens to Incident controller, the numbers are dictated by the risk. Communication with employees is key to ensuring everyone understands what is required of them when they are working in the office with regards to fire safety. Training for the team can be delivered online on site or at a bespoke venue allowing flexibility on the number of people trained.
Earlier this year, a large care provider received the biggest ever fines in the UK for a serious breach of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The judgement, at a court in London, saw a large care provider receive a £1.4m fine after a resident died when his clothes set on fire while he was smoking. The resident, Cedric Skyers, was in a wheelchair inside a garden shelter at a care home in Brockley, when the incident happened. The prosecution explained that his clothes went on fire because a paraffin-based emollient cream had soaked into his clothes, causing them to become flammable. The 69-year-old died in March 2016, although the case only came to court in 2019 following an investigation by the London Fire Brigade. It was concluded earlier this year after the pandemic caused a delay in the proceedings. Paraffin-based products The large care provider admitted that in Mr Sykes's case, they did not abide by their own policy for users of emollient cream. This was that smokers should have a smoking apron on or be supervised while smoking. But in this case, nothing was done. Here at FireRite, they would insist that part of the fire training for fire safety officers in care homes include the following: Making sure all staff understood the risks of using emollient creams Warning residents using paraffin-based products not to smoke and, if they did, to insist they used precautions, such as a smock or apron Instructing staff not to leave a resident using paraffin-based products smoking unsupervised Carrying out an individual smoking risk assessment of the resident as usual with the control measures in place Fully implementing recommendations and consequential remedial actions identified in the premises fire risk assessment concerning paraffin-based skin medication (i.e. to have processes for managing individual smoking risk assessments) Ensuring the premises’ Home Manager participated in and completed the company's mandatory fire safety training Individual risk assessments Following the case, the London Fire Brigade (LFB)’s Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety, Paul Jennings, warned @LondonFire: “Care homes and indeed all organisations should consider their processes around individual risk assessments, and how these are dealt with in the context of the particular environment of the premises in question.” Mr Jennings went on to say that the incident showed those who had legal responsibility for fire safety in their building – whether as a landlord, property manager, care home provider or any other setting – should ensure they are complying with the law. Preventive and protective measures The original charges for breaching the Safety Order by the large care provider Services were: Article 9 (requirement to have a suitable and sufficient risk assessment) Article 11 (appropriate arrangements for the effective planning, organisation, control, monitoring and review of preventive and protective measures) Article 21 (adequate safety training for employees) Individual smoking risk assessments Lawyers for the Care Home had argued that the large care provider did not require individual smoking risk assessments for residents who smoked, as such assessments were not capable of being a ‘general fire precaution.’ This was rejected by the judge, who replied that the care home absolutely required something to be carried out in relation to a smoking risk assessment at the premises, even if a risk assessment for each smoking individual was itself beyond what the Fire Safety Order required.
A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is an essential component of their organisation’s overall Fire Risk Management Strategy. As with all fire safety measures, the primary goal of a risk assessment is to keep people safe. Virtually all buildings in England and Wales are required, by law, to undertake a Fire Risk Assessment (except for domestic dwellings). This article will explain the process of carrying out a Fire Risk Assessment, their responsibilities under Fire Safety legislation, as well as proposed changes as to who can carry out an assessment. What happens in a fire risk assessment? A fire risk assessment is an audit of a building’s current fire safety measures. If necessary, the assessment will include detailed recommendations to improve its fire safety. It is an organised, methodical, and thorough look at their premises, the activities carried on there and the likelihood that a fire could start and cause harm to those in and around the premises. The aim of a fire risk assessment is to: Identify the potential fire hazards including sources of ignition and sources of fuel Identify people at risk including people especially at risk e.g. Evaluate, Remove, Reduce and Protect from risk Record, Plan, Inform, Instruct, Train Monitor, Review and Revise as required Fire risk assessment Good management of fire safety is essential to ensure that fires are unlikely to occur Good management of fire safety is essential to ensure that fires are unlikely to occur; that if they do occur, they are likely to be controlled or contained quickly, effectively, and safely. Also, if a fire did occur and spread, everyone in their premises can escape to a place of total safety, easily and quickly. The terms ‘hazard’ and ‘risk’ are used frequently throughout the fire risk assessment. Let’s define those words now, as it can be overwhelming to see such alarming words relating to their business! A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm. Whereas a risk is the chance of that harm occurring. Understanding fire hazards Knowing how to interpret the fire risk assessment will also help users better understand fire hazards It’s like going back to the driving lessons! A child riding a bike on the side of the narrow road is a hazard, so users reduce the risk of an accident by slowing down and being more alert. For example: storing flammable or dangerous substances on the premises is a hazard and the risk is how likely it is to ignite. The risk may be reduced but the hazard remains. Knowing how to interpret the fire risk assessment will also help users better understand fire hazards and how to reduce the risk of serious incidents. Fire risk assessment guidance The Fire Safety Order, which is legislation covering England and Wales, recommends the Five Step Approach in its fire risk assessment guidance: Step 1: Identify the fire hazards -This step involves identifying any potential sources of ignition, such as fuel, oxygen or anything else that’s flammable, including electrical items. Step 2: Identify people at risk - Users must consider all the people who use the premises, but they should pay particular attention to people who may be especially at risk. This could be members of staff, visitors, or the general public. Step 3: Evaluate, remove, or reduce the risks - The next step in conducting a fire risk assessment is to evaluate the risk of a fire occurring and consider the risk to people. They should consider: Fire detection and warning systems Firefighting equipment such as extinguishers and hose reels Escape routes and their accessibility Emergency lighting Signage, notices, and communication during an emergency Maintenance of all the above Step 4: Record, plan, inform, instruct and train - Record the significant findings including action taken and prepare an emergency plan. Inform and instruct relevant people. Co-operate and co-ordinate with others Provide appropriate training to those who need it Step 5: Regularly Review - Keep the fire risk assessment under regular review and revise where necessary, for example if the layout of the building or premises changes over time. Is it a legal requirement to conduct a Fire Risk Assessment? Yes. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is legislation that covers England and Wales. It sets the standard for fire safety in all non-domestic premises. (Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate fire safety legislation) Fire safety legislation The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), who are responsible for enforcing this legislation tells them in their “Enforcers Guidance”: “Any fire risk assessment must be reviewed by the responsible person regularly so as to keep it up to date. There is no definition of regularly but annually is generally accepted to be best practice.” The penalty for failing to comply with the Fire Safety Order include large fines or a prison sentence. The assessment should be a living document that is subject to ongoing review of sufficient frequency to keep the assessment updated with any changes to the risks on the premises. HM Government guidance Consider the risks in terms of the P’s: People – Changes to occupant dependency e.g. changes to the mobility profile of occupants within the premises. Property - Purpose group, structure, layout of the premises. Processes - This may be management processes or activities carried out in relation to fire safety Who can conduct a Fire Risk Assessment? Recent proposed changes to legislation are considering that future Fire Risk Assessments will require “specialist knowledge and the expertise of the fire risk assessor” which means that all fire risk assessments will soon have to be carried out by an accredited professional, such as someone who is BAFE Certified. If users are responsible person for the business, they may be asking “Can I do it myself?” Well, in small or low-risk premises this may be possible using the suite of HM Government guidance, but those carrying out a fire risk assessment must be satisfied that they are able to: Maintenance of fire precautions Identify any possible fire hazards (all potential causes of fire) Identify people who are at risk Evaluate fire safety measures provided and/or required to protect people (escape routes and fire alarm systems) Review the procedural arrangements for management of fire safety (fire procedures, staff training, fire drills, maintenance of fire precautions, etc.) Formulate an emergency action plan Record the significant findings during a fire risk assessment and implement an action plan Keep the assessment up to date The key here is to know their limits. Understanding of fire safety Firerite provides third-party certificated fire risk assessments to NSI Gold BAFE SP205 accreditation If they feel, having read the guidance, that users do not have an appropriate knowledge or understanding of fire safety and the risk to people from fire to comply effectively with the legislative requirements; or, that they are unable to invest sufficient time and resources to do justice to this important task, users will need to appoint a BAFE Certified specialist like FireRite and then maintain close involvement in the process. Firerite provides third-party certificated fire risk assessments to NSI Gold BAFE SP205 accreditation backed by UKAS. Users can also search for competent BAFE-certified fire risk assessors from the NSI Directory and BAFE. Potential hazards and risks Conducting a regular fire risk assessment is a vital part of managing their premises and ensuring its safety for the people who use it. The key points to take away are: A fire risk assessment identifies potential hazards and risks, and who is at risk from them The assessment will recommend how to reduce or remove the identified risks Users can use their fire risk assessment to inform, guide, instruct and educate the staff An assessment should be kept under regular review. Speak to use about their fire risk assessment! The Firerite team, based in South Wales has extensive knowledge of delivering a range of fire protection services, consultancy, and fire risk assessments across a variety of sectors and buildings. They offer a cost-effective, professional service that will meet the current legislative requirements.
Since the onset of the pandemic, most companies have become familiar with issuing alcohol gel in the form of hand sanitizer for staff, customers and visitors. This is understandable because it’s a good way of ensuring no germs, viruses and bacteria are passed on when surfaces are touched. But, as a manager or procurement officer, just how au fait are users with storing these highly-flammable liquids? It’s important to do so carefully because of the high alcohol content in the gel – anything from 60% to 95% – means it could prove a chemical fire hazard. Alcohol-based sanitizers In other words, hand sanitizer can ignite very quickly when exposed to a naked flame or other forms of heat such as heat generated from friction or sparks. The higher the alcohol content the more effective the gel (i.e. it actually kills rather than ‘dampens’ bacteria) and the more flammable the product. That way, they’ll have less opportunity to burn themselves should they go near a naked flame In fact, alcohol-based sanitizers like the kind most of us encounter on a daily basis are in fact graded ‘Class I Flammable’. This means they become a chemical fire hazard with heat below one hundred degrees Fahrenheit, 37.8℃. And, on that point, anyone using the gel should rub it in completely until their hands are dry. That way, they’ll have less opportunity to burn themselves should they go near a naked flame. Hand sanitizer storage Hand sanitizer storage is important. If stored and used properly, the fire hazard aspect of the gel shouldn’t pose any type of problem or fire risk. This is particularly important for bigger quantities of liquid, i.e. more than 100mls. According to fire regulations issued by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), users should avoid putting sanitizer gels in a cupboard near any heat or ignition sources, i.e. a cooker, fire, electrical outlet, switch or any type of electrical equipment. Fire resistant cabinet Good hand sanitizer storage means avoiding oxidizing agents too, such as nitric acid or acetyl chloride Good hand sanitizer storage means avoiding oxidizing agents too, such as nitric acid or acetyl chloride. They strongly recommend against storing quantities of fluid in areas used for means of escape and circulation routes and spaces. What’s more, storage should be in a fire resistant cabinet or cupboard and away from sources of heat, friction or sparks. It’s also important to display and keep up-to-date Safety Data Sheets and COSHH Regs. There are some good reference guides and ebased risk assessment tools on the HSE website regarding the storage of large quantities of substances. They also recommend reading the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) - COSHH guidance which explores sorting large quantities of substances post COVID-19. What Happens In The Event Of Spilled Liquid? The best type of lid for an alcohol-based sanitizer (or any kind of alcohol-based substance for that matter), is one that flips open. That way it’s less likely to spill out in large quantities. However, if a cap lid comes loose, the entire contents can run out. This means it could fall onto clothing, textiles and bedding, causing these to become a potential fire hazard. Fire regulations advise that in the event of a spillage immediately remove all sources of ignition Fire regulations advise that in the event of a spillage immediately remove all sources of ignition and wipe up the liquid. Don’t forget to dispose of waste materials carefully ideally outside away from the building in a lockable, non flammable waste bin. Small fire extinguisher If the worst happens and the gel does ignite, then it can be quickly put out using a small fire extinguisher. A fire blanket can smother the flames. Most of them have heard of the phrase ‘Stop, drop and roll’ if the clothes are on fire. Users should then smother themselves with a fire blanket, submerge their hands in cold or lukewarm water. For information on how to treat burns to the skin, go to the Burns and Scalds page on the NHS website. It’s also worth pointing out that soap and water are actually the best method to rid hands of germs and prevent passing on of any viruses, etc. Sanitizers should really only be used when there’s no access to a sink and soap.
Renewable hydrogen is set to play a crucial role in the energy transition. European member states are already experimenting with this promising energy carrier, and they are testing how they can repurpose existing natural gas distribution networks to bring hydrogen to the consumer. Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas. That is why technical staff working on these hydrogen distribution networks will need to be trained for safety. They will also need to be equipped with the right tools to detect hydrogen leaks and see hydrogen flames in time. One such tool is the thermal imaging camera. Clean energy transition Hydrogen is enjoying renewed and growing attention around the world. In Europe for example, hydrogen is considered as a key priority to achieve the European Green Deal and Europe’s clean energy transition. Hydrogen is also an interesting alternative for heating old or historic buildings It can be used as a feedstock, a fuel or an energy carrier and storage, and has many possible applications across the industry, transport and power sectors. Hydrogen is also an interesting alternative for heating old or historic buildings, which are typically difficult to insulate, and as a result, where all-electric heat pumps are not practical. Environmentally friendly way Although hydrogen is seen as a clean energy carrier, it is not always produced in a clean way. There are several ways to create it. Gray hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels (methane) through a process called steam reforming and results in the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2). Blue hydrogen also relies on this principle, although 80% to 90% of the emitted CO2 during the process is captured and stored underground. As the name suggests, green hydrogen is the most environmentally friendly way to produce hydrogen. This is done through electrolysis, which means using renewable electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Unlike other renewable energies, hydrogen has the potential for being stored in large quantities for later use. Dedicated hydrogen pipeline The storage potential of hydrogen is particularly beneficial for power grids This is where hydrogen becomes interesting, from an environmental and climate standpoint. When produced at times when solar and wind energy resources are abundantly available, renewable “green hydrogen” can support the world’s electricity needs, providing long-term and large-scale storage. The storage potential of hydrogen is particularly beneficial for power grids, because it allows for renewable energy to be kept not only in large quantities but also for long periods of time. With all its potential for green energy, the question remains how hydrogen, once produced, can be efficiently delivered to the consumer or to the point of use in large quantities. Until now, the market has been discouraged by the substantial expenses that are associated with establishing a dedicated hydrogen pipeline or delivery infrastructure. Natural gas pipelines Another option that has been gaining more attention in recent years is converting the existing natural gas distribution network for the passage of hydrogen. Obviously, hydrogen and natural gas have different characteristics – for example in terms of flammability, density, and ease of dispersion – but with the infrastructure for natural gas already in place, a conversion for hydrogen distribution could be economically interesting. Several demonstration projects and proofs of concept across Europe have already demonstrated that with a few adjustments, hydrogen can be injected into existing natural gas pipelines and delivered to a wide range of end-point applications. Private gas network In 2020, a pilot hydrogen project went operational in the UK. The HyDeploy demonstration showed that it was possible to blend up to 20% of hydrogen with normal gas supply into Keele University’s private gas network, which serves 17 faculty buildings and 100 domestic properties. Also in the UK, a feasibility study - the H21 Leeds City Gate report – was carried out, confirming that conversion of the UK gas network to 100% hydrogen was both technically possible and could be delivered at a realistic cost. Another pilot project started in 2022, in Lochem’s Berkeloord district (the Netherlands). There, twelve homes are heated using hydrogen transported over the existing natural gas grid. In Hoogeveen, the Netherlands, the development of the world’s first hydrogen district was planned for 2023. Hydrogen distribution networks Hydrogen (H) is a gaseous substance that is the simplest member of the family of chemical elements These projects must demonstrate that hydrogen is a safe, comfortable and affordable alternative to natural gas. At the time of writing, many more demonstration and pilot projects are being developed, which shows the growing interest in the development of hydrogen distribution networks. Hydrogen (H) is a gaseous substance that is the simplest member of the family of chemical elements. Under ordinary conditions, hydrogen gas is a loose aggregation of hydrogen molecules, each consisting of a pair of atoms, a diatomic molecule, H2. Availability: hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe but only makes up only about 0.14 percent of Earth’s crust by weight. Diffusivity: hydrogen’s greatest advantage, in terms of safety, is its ability to diffuse through the air much faster than other gaseous fuels, making it less likely to accumulate. Toxicity: colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic Flammability: hydrogen is a highly flammable gas. Its broad flammability limits and low ignition energy increase risk. Visibility: Unlike methane and gasoline fires, hydrogen burns with a nearly invisible flame in daylight. However, contaminants in the air can create some visibility. Hydrogen distribution pipeline Research has shown that hydrogen can be used to displace natural gas from existing natural gas pipelines Now they know that existing infrastructure can be used: how can existing gas distribution pipelines be safely decommissioned as a natural gas pipeline and (simultaneously) commissioned as a hydrogen pipeline during the conversion to a hydrogen network? From a practical standpoint, the distribution pipes will need to be purged. Natural gas will need be let out and hydrogen gas will need to be let in. Research has shown that hydrogen can be used to displace natural gas from existing natural gas pipelines, and that a natural gas distribution pipeline can immediately be recommissioned as a hydrogen distribution pipeline after the natural gas has been displaced. Thermal imaging camera A test set-up with natural gas and hydrogen flares: with a visual camera, the hydrogen flares are not or hardly visible. However, a thermal imaging camera can visualize them based on the thermal radiation the hydrogen flares emit. One frequently used technique when purging pipes is flaring. This is a safety measure often employed in industrial settings where hydrogen is used. The process involves burning off excess hydrogen in a controlled manner. Hydrogen flaring is typically done during maintenance, leak detection, or other situations where there is excess hydrogen that cannot be safely stored or disposed of in a controlled way. Unexpected flame movements Maintenance workers should therefore wear protective clothing that can withstand the heat Although hydrogen is not toxic, there are specific hazards associated with working with hydrogen gas, and flaring it poses certain risks. Just like many other gases, hydrogen is highly flammable and can ignite rapidly in the presence of oxygen. Maintenance workers should therefore wear protective clothing that can withstand the heat and be aware of temperature conditions to avoid burns. Maintenance workers should also use tools that are intrinsically safe to avoid spark discharge accidents. Monitoring hydrogen flares To safely work with hydrogen, technical staff needs to be trained and they need to use the appropriate tools. One of the difficulties when working with hydrogen during flaring activities is that a hydrogen flame is not always visible. Hydrogen is also very light and – since flaring is done in open air – technical workers always need to be on guard for unexpected flame movements due to wind bursts. To ensure safety, technical staff need a better view of the flame during flaring works. Some of the most frequently used technologies to monitor hydrogen flares are thermocouples, ultraviolet (UV) sensors and infrared (IR) sensors. Sometimes, certain contaminants like water or dust are added to the hydrogen, which makes the flame more visible. Ideal complementary tool Although hydrogen flames are invisible during daylight, they do emit thermal radiation Although all above-mentioned technologies are valuable to detect hydrogen fast and accurately, they are missing one essential feature: they do not allow to actually see a hydrogen flame. That is why thermal imaging cameras are the ideal complementary tool. Although hydrogen flames are invisible during daylight, they do emit thermal radiation. Thermal cameras can detect these temperature changes, allowing technical staff to visualize the exact movement of the flames and safely approach a hydrogen flame. Monitoring hydrogen flares Thermal imaging cameras are an indispensable tool for anyone working on hydrogen pipelines or monitoring hydrogen flares. Here’s why: Improved situational awareness: Thermal imaging cameras provide a visual representation of the entire scene, including the hydrogen flare installation. This offers improved situational awareness, which can be particularly useful in industrial settings where multiple processes are ongoing. Improved staff safety: Thermal cameras allow technical staff to monitor flames from a safe distance. They don’t have to approach the flame closely, and the detection sensors inside a thermal camera do not need to make physical contact with the flame. Multiple uses: Thermal imaging cameras have a broad range of applications, beyond flame detection. They can be used for electrical inspections, mechanical inspections, and more. This versatility makes them a very economical tool for a range of maintenance and safety tasks Seeing temperature differences: Thermal imaging cameras enable maintenance workers to visualize subtle temperature differences. This enables them to detect not only flames, but also hotspots, overheating problems, and other potential issues related to possible equipment malfunctions. Fewer false alarms: Unlike flame detectors in certain environments, thermal imaging cameras are less prone to false alarms caused by non- flame sources such as sunlight, welding arcs, or hot surfaces. Greater situational awareness Thermal and acoustic cameras from FLIR support technical maintenance professionals in safely working in hydrogen environments. FLIR cameras provide users with detail-rich thermal images in a variety of thermal color palettes enabling greater situational awareness and understanding. Some of the most suitable camera solutions for hydrogen flame monitoring include: FLIR ONE® Edge Series Thermal Cameras with Wireless Connectivity FLIR Cx5 Hazardous Location- Rated Thermal Camera FLIR K-Series High-Performance TIC for Firefighting FLIR Cx-Series Compact Thermal Cameras FLIR Ex Pro-Series Infrared Cameras with Ignite™ Cloud In addition, the following technology allows inspectors to detect gas leaks, either by visualizing an added tracer gas (CO2) or by visualizing the sound of a leak. FLIR G343 Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) Camera for CO2 FLIR Si2-LD Industrial Acoustic Imaging Camera for Pressurized Leak Detection and Mechanical Fault Detection
Rosenbauer America, a pioneering manufacturer of fire apparatus and firefighting equipment, will be showcasing its latest advancements in technology at FDIC International 2025 in Indianapolis, IN. Attendees are invited to visit Rosenbauer's indoor exhibit (booth #3413) at the Indiana Convention Center (ICC) and the outdoor demonstration area on South Street to experience firsthand the company's commitment to unmatched operational performance and firefighter safety. Featured Fire Apparatus Rosenbauer’s FDIC 2025 exhibit will include a comprehensive lineup of fire apparatus designed to meet the diverse needs of fire departments for multiple vocational applications: RTX Electric Pumper PANTHER electric ARFF COMMANDER™ Custom Industrial Foam Pumper COMMANDER™ King Cobra 101’ Articulating Aerial Platform COMMANDER™ Cobra 100’ Mid Mount Aerial Platform COMMANDER™ T-Rex Aerial Platform COMMANDER™ Viper 78’ Aerial Ladder COMMANDER™ Side Mount Custom Pumper COMMANDER™ Top Mount Custom Pumper COMMANDER™ Custom Pumper with IDEX SAM System WARRIOR™ Custom Rescue International™ LCS Commercial Pumper Freightliner™ Commercial Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Innovative Fire Apparatus Technology Rosenbauer will also highlight its advanced technologies designed to enhance firefighting and rescue capabilities for municipalities, industrial sites, and airports: NEW Custom Industrial Foam Pumper: Engineered for extreme hazard environments, this pumper delivers exceptional pumping capabilities combined with world-class foam proportioning with superior monitor performance for industrial firefighting applications. NEW PANTHER electric ARFF: As the first fully electric ARFF vehicle, the PANTHER electric delivers powerful firefighting capabilities with zero emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future for airport fire services. Logic Control System (LCS): Providing a uniform, intuitive user interface across Rosenbauer vehicles, the LCS simplifies operations in the most challenging situations. Operators can easily control the pump, foam system, monitors, scene lights, and other critical functions from multiple points on the apparatus, allowing personnel to focus on the critical mission at hand. Rosenbauer RTX Electric Pumper: The revolutionary RTX electric pumper offers a modular design with an electric drivetrain, providing exceptional maneuverability, reduced noise for improved communications, incredible ergonomics for firefighter health and safety, and lower emissions. King Cobra Articulating Aerial Platform: This unique articulating aerial platform provides unparalleled reach and the ability to navigate around obstacles, offering firefighters access to previously unreachable areas. RTE Robot: A versatile remote-controlled robot designed for hazardous environments, the RTE Robot can assist with reconnaissance, suppression, and other critical tasks, enhancing fire ground safety. Battery Extinguishing System Technology (BEST): This advanced technology offers an innovative and effective method for extinguishing fires in electric vehicles and battery storage systems. Drill-X: This unique handheld tool combines drilling and suppression capabilities in one system, allowing firefighters to quickly penetrate structures and apply water directly to the fire source. Cuttex: A powerful handheld cutting tool designed for rapid breaching of various materials that provides firefighters with efficient access during multiple operational scenarios. Rosenbauer N & NH Pumps: These high-performance pumps are engineered for reliable and efficient water delivery, providing the necessary pressure and flow for effective fire suppression. Rosenbauer Live Demonstrations Attendees are encouraged to visit Rosenbauer’s outdoor demonstration area on South Street to experience the performance of Rosenbauer apparatus firsthand: Aerial Demonstrations: Experience the incredible capabilities of the Viper Aerial Ladder, Cobra Aerial Platform, King Cobra Articulating Aerial Platform, and the T-Rex Aerial Platform. Attendees will be able to explore their reach, maneuverability, stability, and operational ease. HEAT Event Participation: Rosenbauer will participate in the Handling, Evaluation, and Tactics (HEAT) event each day, showcasing the unsurpassed capabilities of the PANTHER electric and RTX electric fire apparatus, as well as the versatility of the RTE Robot in live fire scenarios. RTX and PANTHER Electric Ride & Drive: Following the HEAT events, attendees will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel and experience the innovative electric drivetrains of the RTX fire apparatus and PANTHER electric ARFF. RTE Robot Operation: Take control of the Rosenbauer RTE Robot and explore its diverse applications for fire departments, from reconnaissance and victim location to remote firefighting. Handheld Firefighting Tools: Test the effectiveness of the Rosenbauer Drill-X and Cuttex at interactive demonstration stations, experiencing their capabilities in simulated roof cutting and wall breaching scenarios. Fire Department Coffee Meet & Greet A highlight at Rosenbauer America’s indoor exhibit (booth #3413) will be the daily serving of Fire Department Coffee (FDC). Attendees are invited to start their day or grab an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of FDC. Adding to the excitement, special guests Jason Patton and Firefighter Fenton from Fire Department Coffee will be making an appearance for a meet and greet on Friday, April 11, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM (ET).
As workplaces have evolved over the past year or so companies should have a flexible mind as to how to best keep the office/workplace compliant. The first point is often to check the risk assessment is up to date and make sure it stays adaptable to reflect the current working practices. If users have implemented a new hybrid working practice, altered the building layout, or changed how the building is used there is an onus on the Responsible Person to consider in the Fire Risk Assessment; Change in travel distances Escape Routes Frequency of fire alarm testing and Maintenance Frequency of fire evacuation drills The recent pandemic has impelled many businesses into offering new ways of working to keep their staff safe, including working from home. Receiving dedicated training While staff has welcomed this new flexibility, understandably it has generated a number of restrictions, particularly on the availability of trained staff to fulfil required safety roles, such as that of the Fire Warden. As users have acknowledged traditionally, fire safety has been shared amongst a dedicated group of trained individuals selected from within the workforce. Often referred to as Fire Wardens or Fire Marshals, each should have received dedicated training for their role. Fire escape plan Fire Wardens play a crucial role in preserving the continuity of the workplace Along with the organisation’s evacuation and fire escape plan, Fire Wardens play a crucial role in preserving the continuity of the workplace and are prepared for a fire emergency, often acting as first responders in a fire situation, and raising awareness regarding fire hazards that exist within the workplace. ‘How many fire marshals do I need?’ was a question we were often asked during the Pandemic by a range of businesses, of course the number of fire marshals users need will be dependent on the nature of the business and size of the workforce. Sufficient instruction and training In the UK, it is a legal requirement for organisations to have trained people in place to assist with a range of activities such as firefighting, evacuation, and providing fire safety assistance. The challenge is to achieve this with the now limited people available in the office. Article 21.2 of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (The FSO) The Responsible Person must ensure that the employee's safety training includes suitable and sufficient instruction and training on the appropriate precautions and actions to be taken by the employee in order to safeguard themselves and other relevant persons on the premises. It is obvious that a high-risk business with many employees will require more fire wardens than a low-risk business with just a handful of employees. If the staff work shifts, then users will also need to ensure that there are an appropriate number of fire wardens on-site during each shift. High-risk business The level of fire risk in their business will dictate how many fire marshals users should have Firstly, decide if users are a low risk, normal risk, or high-risk business. The level of fire risk in their business will dictate how many fire marshals users should have. There is no legal definition of low, normal, or high risk with regards to fire safety as it depends on many factors. If users feel unqualified to determine the risk level of the premises, or uncomfortable doing so, then check the Fire Risk Assessment, as it should have classified their premises for users. Some considerations; i. Low Fire Risk: Premises where there are: limited combustible materials virtually no sources of ignition premises that are traditionally built and well maintained no high-risk groups, such as the young, elderly, or disabled occupants that could escape quickly and safety in the event of a fire fire safety measures that are considered adequate and well maintained ii. Normal Fire Risk: Premises where there are: some combustible or highly flammable materials some sources of heat which could ignite a fire premises that may not be traditionally built a small number of high-risk individuals, (see above) a fire is likely to remain confined to room of origin or spread slowly, allowing people time to escape fire safety measures are adequate and well maintained iii. High Fire Risk: Premises where there are: substantial quantities of combustible or highly flammable materials sources of heat which could easily ignite a fire an unconventional layout or construction making it harder to escape easily risks that a fire could spread rapidly a large number of high-risk individuals, (see above) fire safety measures that are poorly maintained Fire safety measures To estimate the number of fire wardens required, users should have a system in place To estimate the number of fire wardens required, users should have a system in place to know how many workers will be in the office on any day. A rota or schedule is an effective way to ensure coverage while also seeing immediately who the fire wardens are if something should happen. Not stipulated but commonly for low-risk commercial properties one fire warden for every fifty staff would be sufficient, medium risk properties require one warden for every twenty staff, and high-risk properties require one warden for every fifteen staff. Low-risk commercial properties That said there is no set figure, users need to use their discretion during a risk assessment for fire safety to determine the level of risk and calculate the amount needed for their premises. Consider the number of buildings and floors, the number and type of occupants, the type of work conducted, the number of shifts, sickness, and leave. This position simplifies and separates the role away from the Fire Warden Businesses should review their resource options and possibly create an intermediate role of a dedicated ‘Evacuation Marshal’ requiring less training. This position simplifies and separates the role away from the Fire Warden so they can help as necessary during an emergency evacuation, this role deals specifically with the task of checking if each area of the building is clear, and reporting that information to the relevant person, building evacuation can then be achieved quickly and efficiently. Basic fire awareness Basically, everyone in the organisation needs some form of training/understanding from basic fire awareness to know what to do if they see a fire, or if they need to evacuate the building in response to a fire alarm, through fire wardens to Incident controller, the numbers are dictated by the risk. Communication with employees is key to ensuring everyone understands what is required of them when they are working in the office with regards to fire safety. Training for the team can be delivered online on site or at a bespoke venue allowing flexibility on the number of people trained.
Earlier this year, a large care provider received the biggest ever fines in the UK for a serious breach of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The judgement, at a court in London, saw a large care provider receive a £1.4m fine after a resident died when his clothes set on fire while he was smoking. The resident, Cedric Skyers, was in a wheelchair inside a garden shelter at a care home in Brockley, when the incident happened. The prosecution explained that his clothes went on fire because a paraffin-based emollient cream had soaked into his clothes, causing them to become flammable. The 69-year-old died in March 2016, although the case only came to court in 2019 following an investigation by the London Fire Brigade. It was concluded earlier this year after the pandemic caused a delay in the proceedings. Paraffin-based products The large care provider admitted that in Mr Sykes's case, they did not abide by their own policy for users of emollient cream. This was that smokers should have a smoking apron on or be supervised while smoking. But in this case, nothing was done. Here at FireRite, they would insist that part of the fire training for fire safety officers in care homes include the following: Making sure all staff understood the risks of using emollient creams Warning residents using paraffin-based products not to smoke and, if they did, to insist they used precautions, such as a smock or apron Instructing staff not to leave a resident using paraffin-based products smoking unsupervised Carrying out an individual smoking risk assessment of the resident as usual with the control measures in place Fully implementing recommendations and consequential remedial actions identified in the premises fire risk assessment concerning paraffin-based skin medication (i.e. to have processes for managing individual smoking risk assessments) Ensuring the premises’ Home Manager participated in and completed the company's mandatory fire safety training Individual risk assessments Following the case, the London Fire Brigade (LFB)’s Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety, Paul Jennings, warned @LondonFire: “Care homes and indeed all organisations should consider their processes around individual risk assessments, and how these are dealt with in the context of the particular environment of the premises in question.” Mr Jennings went on to say that the incident showed those who had legal responsibility for fire safety in their building – whether as a landlord, property manager, care home provider or any other setting – should ensure they are complying with the law. Preventive and protective measures The original charges for breaching the Safety Order by the large care provider Services were: Article 9 (requirement to have a suitable and sufficient risk assessment) Article 11 (appropriate arrangements for the effective planning, organisation, control, monitoring and review of preventive and protective measures) Article 21 (adequate safety training for employees) Individual smoking risk assessments Lawyers for the Care Home had argued that the large care provider did not require individual smoking risk assessments for residents who smoked, as such assessments were not capable of being a ‘general fire precaution.’ This was rejected by the judge, who replied that the care home absolutely required something to be carried out in relation to a smoking risk assessment at the premises, even if a risk assessment for each smoking individual was itself beyond what the Fire Safety Order required.
Expert Commentary
As a company officer, the day will come where you and your crew are first to arrive at what looks like the beginning of a major incident. Your Battalion Chief (BC) is delayed or diverted to other incidents, so YOU are the Incident Commander (IC). How you set the table for this incident with regard to quickly setting up the Incident Command System (ICS) is critical. And how you use your channels of communication, including the ways you communicate, will be crucial to your success. Before we jump into the ‘how-to’, let’s examine something that looms over everything we do during emergencies, especially fires - ‘The NIOSH 5’. I first became aware of the NIOSH 5, when listening to one of Anthony Kastros’ lectures on incident command and the need for an organization on the fire ground. ‘The NIOSH 5’ Firefighters and emergency workers typically get lost, hurt, or killed at incidents, when any one of five causal factors identified by The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are present: Improper risk assessment Lack of incident command Lack of accountability Inadequate communications Lack of SOPs (or failure to follow established SOPs) Statistically, 50 percent of these line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) and injury events occur in the first 15 minutes of an incident. Half of those occur in the first three minutes! If you’re the initial IC, it’s statistically likely this could happen while you’re in charge. Need for training and practice in handling emergencies Keeping ‘The NIOSH 5’ at the forefront of your mind should trigger the need for training and practice in handling emergencies. Although there are factors you simply can’t control during an emergency, you can control communications, incident command, accountability, repetitive training, and standardization. The following are some things to keep in mind while managing an incident: Arrival on Scene In incident management, setup is everything and oftentimes, determines the outcome of the incident. To use a sports analogy, you definitely want your first pitch to be a strike. So how do you do that? Provide a Solid Size-up Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications The first step is taking a deep breath and giving a good size-up. Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications, and a command tone. Your tone and tempo in your size-up will help focus everyone and create a tactics-driven incident, rather than an emotions-driven one. But, if we’re being honest, being cool takes practice and repetition. Your agency should have a standardized way for how and when this size-up is delivered. In many cases, it’s a fill-in-the-blank script that includes the following four things: What you see (smoke and flames/or nothing showing) The area you see it affecting (the second story, the alpha/bravo corner) What’s happening/what’s on fire or causing the hazard (a two-story home or a sedan next to a building) Establishing command (a must-take command or pass, if you’re going to rescue a citizen) By practicing within your agency’s standards, it enables you to project a cool tone over the radio like you’ve ‘been there before. Order resources early and often Tunnel vision is a death sentence for any IC. In most cases, this is not the time to get sucked into task-level problems. The exceptions to this are structure fires and other emergencies where there is an immediate and known rescue. Otherwise, it’s time to step back, take in the big picture, and make decisions as an IC. Ask yourself: ‘What will this incident do in five minutes? 10? 20? One hour?’ If the answer is ‘get bigger’, then you need more resources. Order them early and often, because they can always be turned around. Don’t try to do too much with too little. Trusted Incident Command System equals early accountability As the initial IC, you’ll be sending crews into the hazard zone. It’s a red flag if, during the initial portion of the incident, you don’t have solid accountability. It’s during this initial ‘fog of war’ that we lose track of crews, and it’s when personnel gets hurt or killed. NFPA 1561, along with other best practices, requires that you know where everyone is and what they’re doing. If you don’t have that knowledge, stop and figure that out, or assign someone to figure it out and report back to you as soon as possible. Benefits of an all-in-one digital platform - Tablet Command Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crew Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crews – a notepad, whiteboard, tactical worksheet, or better yet, a digital command board. The huge advantage of an all-in-one digital platform like Tablet Command is that it’s CAD-integrated and will populate resources for you in real-time. There’s no writing and scribbling while listening to garbled radio traffic, and no trying to ‘catch up’ with resource orders that change on the fly. Accountability integrated into command processes With a platform, such as Tablet Command, all you’re doing is dragging and dropping resources into their assignments, which automatically time-stamps their activities. Maintaining accountability becomes seamlessly integrated into your command processes. These digital platforms also tend to be highly recognizable and easy for others to assume command. It’s paramount that you train extensively on whatever system your agency uses, and that everyone in your region or agency is squared away on how to maintain accountability in a standardized fashion. It’s a problem if you have several chiefs and company officers, and too many (or not enough) ways of maintaining accountability. Many agencies need the first-arriving officer to implement an ICS to track crews Segment and subdivide How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Use your knowledge of your ICS to break up the incident into manageable bites. When the Fire Chief arrives, they’ll have simple questions: Where is everybody? What are they doing? How are they doing? How do I talk to them? Knowing where your people need to deploy and what channel they’re on are critical to accountability. Using the command board is a great way to have all of those questions answered. Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly. This is true because it ensures you’re talking to the supervisors of each segment of the emergency, especially when assessing conditions, actions and needs. Setting up an incident this way should also be an expectation that is agency-wide and practiced in scenario-based training. The terminology should be standardized so that your agency and neighboring agencies aren’t interpreting what you’re trying to accomplish in the heat of battle. Summary A clear communications plan, solid scene size-up, and early establishment of the ICS by company officers are critical to incident success. Combine this with accurate and solid accountability systems, either through analog methods or with a modern digital solution in real-time, and you guarantee safer outcomes for your crews. The best way to be prepared is through long hours of dedicated practice in the command role and, more importantly, an agency-wide understanding of what’s in the play book: Standardization! A standard approach to managing incidents will help you remedy the chaos and enable you to hand over a well-organized incident to the first-arriving Chief.
Electric wiring systems are mostly hidden and embedded in the construction, ceiling spaces, riser shafts, or wall cavities. Cables are installed in buildings by many different trades for different applications and often in polymeric conduit and ducting systems. What is not often realized is that the many miles of cables and many tons of plastic polymers which make up the wiring system can represent a major fixed fire load in a building. Fire Spread & Flame Retardance Most common flexible cables are made from hydrocarbon (oil) based polymers. These base polymers are not usually flame retardant and have high calorific values, so cable manufacturers add chemicals to make them more suited to electrical cable use. Halogen Additives Halogenated polymers have a negative side effect because in the fire they release halogens as toxic halides Halogens like Chlorine are particularly good additives that help retard flame propagation and don’t significantly impact the dielectric properties of the polymer so halogens are used in both cable insulations and cable sheaths. These halogenated polymers (example: PVC) also have a negative side effect because in the fire they will release the halogens as extremely toxic halides and when combined with the moisture in the eyes, mouth, and lungs are very irritant. Often standard PVC cables will also release large amounts of acrid smoke. Non-Halogenated Materials Often, designers realize the dangers of fire spread, halogen, and toxic gasses, plus the smoke released from cables in the fire so they specify cables to have ‘Halogen Free’, ‘Flame Retardant’, and ‘Low Smoke’ properties. For these cases, cable manufacturers need to use other non-halogenated materials, mostly with flame retarding fillers like alumina-trihydrate (ATH). Electric And Mechanical Properties Halogen Free flame-retardant cables most often use an unfilled or less filled polymer like Polyethylene While effective in retarding flame propagation, these fillers often negatively affect the polymer by reducing dielectric performance or affecting mechanical & water resistance. For this reason, additives like ATH are mostly used only in cable jackets. Halogen Free flame-retardant cables most often use an unfilled or less filled polymer like Polyethylene (PE or XLPE) or EPR for the insulation which has good electric and mechanical properties but may not be very flame retardant. Fire Propagation Performance Often the best flame-retardant cables are halogenated because both the insulation and outer jacket are flame retardant but when we need Halogen Free cables, we find it is often only the outer jacket that is flame retardant and the inner insulation is not. Testing Under Overload Conditions This has significance because while cables with a flame-retardant outer jacket may pass flame retardance tests with an external flame source, (BS EN 60332-1, BS EN 60332-3) the same cables when subjected to high overload or prolonged short circuits have proved in university tests to be highly flammable and can even start the fire under uncleared short-circuit or overload conditions. This effect is known and was published by Nexans/Olex Cables Australia at the 8th International Conference on Insulated Power Cables (Jicable’11, 19-23 June 2011, Versailles, France). What this means is your flame-retardant cables may not be flame retardant under uncleared short circuit or overload conditions. Intrinsic Temperature Change BS 7671 and IEC 60364-5-52 have rating tables allowing some cable designs to operate up to 90°C In the UK, EU, and many other countries, BS 7671 and IEC 60364-5-52 have current rating tables allowing some cable designs to operate at conductor temperatures up to 90°C. Whilst technically acceptable for the cables, what has not been fully considered by is the intrinsic change this cable operating temperature may have on the cable’s flammability. Conducting Tests At Operating Temperature Where cables are required to be flame retardant to IEC 60332-3-22/23/24, it is concerning these tests are not conducted on cable samples preconditioned to the rated operating temperature of the cable, but rather commencing at room temperature. It is well known the hotter a material is the more easily it will burn so designers and users of cables that claim to meet these standards may be surprised to learn their cables might not be flame retardant at all when installed and used at their rated operating temperature. The Primary Importance of Fire Load Many countries around the world are moving to greater use of Halogen Free and Flame Retardant (HFFR) cables in the pursuit of increased building safety. Whilst an admirable motive, the reality can be rather different: In asking for both flame retardant and halogen-free properties, cable manufacturers often need to compromise between high flame retardance with halogens or reduced flame retardance without halogens. Polymers Cable makers often choose polyethylene because it is easy to process and cheap, however, it has a high fire load To provide halogen-free cables, cable makers most often choose polymers like polyethylene (PE & XLPE) because it is easy to process and cheap, however, although polyethylene is halogen-free it has a naturally high fire load. The following table compares the fire load in MJ/Kg for common cable insulating materials against some common fuels. The Heat Release Rate and volatility in the air for these materials will differ but the fuel added to a fire per kg and the consequential volume of heat generated and oxygen consumed is relative. Fire Safety When considering fire safety in cable design, we need to understand the most important factors: Fire experts tell us most fire-related deaths in buildings are caused by smoke inhalation, temperature rise, and oxygen depletion or by trauma caused by jumping in trying to escape these effects. Notably, the most common cause of death in building fires is Smoke inhalation with asphyxia due to CO (Carbon Monoxide) although HCN (Hydrogen Cyanide) is becoming more common with the increasing use of man-made and lightweight synthetic building materials. Notably, neither is a Halogen gas. Smoke Highly flame-retardant cables with a high oxygen index will help here because they may limit the fire spread The first and most important aspect of smoke is how much smoke? Typically, the larger the fire the more smoke is generated so anything we can do to reduce the spread of fire will also correspondingly reduce the amount of smoke. Highly flame-retardant cables with a high oxygen index will help here because they may limit the fire spread. Flammable Gasses Smoke will contain particulates of carbon, ash, and other solids, liquids, and gasses, many are toxic and combustible. In particular, fires in confined areas like buildings, tunnels, and underground environments cause oxygen levels to drop near the fire source and this contributes to incomplete burning and smoldering which can produce increased amounts of smoke and toxic by-products including CO (Carbon Monoxide). As we know the presence of halogenated materials will release toxic halides like Hydrogen Chloride together with many other toxic and flammable gasses in the smoke. IEC Smoke Tests For this reason, common British, and IEC smoke tests (BS EN 61034-2) are conducted by burning cable samples in large 3-meter3 chambers with an alcohol fuel and plenty of air. This can provide very misleading smoke figures because complete burning in flame often releases far less smoke than partial incomplete burning or smoldering which is likely in practice. Low Smoke Cables There are no smoke tests done on cables subjected to heating under short circuit or overload conditions There are no smoke tests done on cables subjected to heating under short circuit or overload conditions which for some common “Halogen Free” insulation materials, give off significantly more smoke than in flame. Simply specifying low smoke cables to meet common British, IEC standards and then thinking this will provide a low smoke environment during a real fire may give comfort to the specifiers and authorities but unfortunately in practice be of little help for the people involved. Halogens, Toxicity, Oxygen Depletion, and Temperature Rise It is concerning that the UK, Europe, and many other countries adopt the concept of halogen-free materials without properly addressing the subject of toxicity. Halogens released during combustion are extremely toxic but so too is carbon monoxide and this is not a halogen gas. It is common for specifications to call for halogen-free cables and because of this, encourage the use of Polyethylene because it is halogen-free. Polyethylene And Carbon Monoxide Burning polyethylene will not only generate almost 3 times more heat but also consume almost 3 times more oxygen Burning polyethylene will generate almost 3 times more heat than an equivalent PVC cable. This means that burning polyethylene will not only generate almost 3 times more heat but also consume almost 3 times more oxygen and can produce large amounts of Carbon Monoxide, especially with partial or incomplete burning. Given that it is carbon monoxide that is statistically responsible for most toxicity deaths in fires this situation is at best alarming. (Carbon Monoxide is a colorless and odorless toxic gas that inhibits the blood hemoglobin from absorbing oxygen. Prolonged exposure results in asphyxiation). Heat Of Combustion The fuel elements shown in the table indicate the amount of heat that will be generated by burning 1kg of the common cable insulations tabled. Certainly, this volume of heat will accelerate the burning of other adjacent materials and may help spread the fire in a building but importantly, to generate the heat energy, oxygen needs to be consumed. The higher the heat of combustion (MJ/Kg) the more oxygen is needed, so choosing insulations (even if Halogen Free) with high fuel elements is adding significantly to at least four of the primary dangers of fire to humans: Temperature rise, Oxygen depletion, Toxic gas emission, and Flame spread. Conclusion The popularity of “Halogen Free” properties while ignoring the other toxic elements of fire, and the correlation to smoke, heat, and oxygen depletion is a clear admission we do not understand the subject well, nor can we easily define the dangers of combined toxic elements or human physiological response to them. It is important, however, that we do not continue to design with only half an understanding of the problem. While no perfect solution may exist for organic-based electric cables, we can certainly minimize these critically important effects of fire risk with a more holistic understanding. To this end commercially available non-organic cable systems can provide a more holistic solution to the polymeric HFFR cable paradox.
There’s no doubt the Building Safety Act and Fire Safety Act are driving major improvements in the construction industry’s quality and approval processes. Although the initial focus of the legislation is on high-rise residential buildings, it’s predicted to be rolled out across the entire sector soon, tightening fire safety regulations in hospitals, hotels, and commercial offices and we await the rafts of secondary legislation that will really redefine the regulatory landscape. Many fear that commercial real estate professionals will be unprepared for the higher levels of compliance required, by the incoming regulations. New requirements for competency, collaboration, and digitally presenting joined-up information will inevitably be imposed on architects, building inspectors, owners, and construction product manufacturers. Fire regulations for commercial buildings However, currently, fire regulations for commercial buildings remain lax and there’s ambiguity about what constitutes appropriate fire safety system management, as well as how to prepare for revised building and fire safety requirements, as they become available. It’s all too easy to take a laissez-faire attitude, but adopting an ‘it will never happen to me’ approach is likely to lead to problems down the road, so contractors, asset owners and FMs alike need to get with the legislative program and fast. Understanding of fire safety ratings for things to increase If specifiers are cutting corners and installing inadequately rated products today, there will be very costly consequences later It is certain that office interior specification, coupled with ongoing checks and a robust understanding of fire safety ratings for things, such as interior doors, panels and partitions is likely to be increasingly challenging going forward. Importantly, if specifiers are cutting corners and installing inadequately rated products today, there will be very costly consequences later. As a result, it is advisable to go above and beyond current construction regulations, when specifying materials for commercial office interiors, in order to future-proof and keep occupants safe. The Grenfell turning point Grenfell was a wake-up call for the construction sector, particularly for construction product manufacturers and those involved in fire protection and fire testing. Before the tragedy, many believed their products were safe and their methods were flawless and tested according to official guidelines. However, this terrible event compelled the industry to examine its manufacturing procedures, the efficacy, adequacy and relevance of testing and certification, as well as product performance claims made in marketing collateral. This re-evaluation, which found many parts of the specification process not fit-for-purpose, has, thankfully, culminated in a total cultural overhaul. Asking important questions regarding building fire safety Fundamentally, there was not enough questioning before Grenfell. Now, we’re re-thinking everything, asking ourselves: Are we doing things correctly? What’s the risk? How can we mitigate that risk? Five years on, the interpretation of evidence, whether direct fire test evidence or third-party assessment, has become much more refined, and rightfully so. Designers and contractors are paying more attention to the evidence used to support proposed items and applications, while manufacturers are re-thinking their use of evidence, in line with post-Grenfell thinking. Adequacy of test evidence The adequacy of test evidence for a given application is now being scrutinized much more closely The adequacy of test evidence for a given application is now being scrutinized much more closely, as are the testing methodologies. It now raises the important question: ‘Does this test accurately represent the effect in a real-world scenario?’ Unfortunately, the capacity to deliver on these questions is not matching good intentions. The rising need for test evidence of fire resistance rather than merely accepting an assessment has caused testing facilities to become overloaded, resulting in much longer wait times. Assessments are now heavily connected to appropriate fire test findings, which necessitate the gathering of evidence and a higher level of analysis, in order to provide assessments. The entire process has become necessarily more complicated, but this has affected efficiency, something which will need to be addressed as construction output inevitably increases. R&D cultivates innovation Fortunately, there are solutions within reach, thanks to significant advancements in the development of fire-safe products and materials across the industry. There’s been an increase in project-specific developments, as suppliers collaborate with designers and fire regulatory organizations to share their expertise. As a result, rather than merely installing the best fit, projects are now specified with fully customized fire-rated systems. Meanwhile, continuing R&D has led to many organizations looking ahead and anticipating shifting demands and trends in the built environment. It’s leading to additional testing and product development for applications that aren't already covered by existing technologies, and a commitment to the highest-quality fire solutions, meaning safer and higher-performance products. Expertise and training are key It’s important to note that choosing fire-rated products does not make the area fire-safe by default. Once the facility is in operation, a systems approach is needed to ensure that the installation and risk assessment of fire-rated products are periodically monitored. Extensive training and CPD must be taken into account for specifiers Even the slightest modification to a fire-rated product, such as changing a glass door’s opening system, might compromise its integrity. It’s critical to completely understand the ins and outs of the product being defined, in order to ensure that it's used correctly. As a result, extensive training and CPD must be taken into account for specifiers and office building managers alike. Increased training and CPD Increased training and CPD will keep the industry on track to deal with the level of comprehensive knowledge necessary Increased training and CPD will keep the industry on track to deal with the level of comprehensive knowledge necessary, specifying according to need and meeting the high standards of the near future. Continued development of fire knowledge is crucial, as the latest high-performance glass doors in offices today are specialized pieces of technology and fire-rated systems behave very differently from other glass partitions or doors. The design dilemma Another significant challenge is incorporating fire safe components into a space without losing its aesthetic appeal, but remaining compliant. Designers are increasingly aiming to open up space to bring in natural light and encourage a sense of well-being for the occupants, meaning walls that would previously have been solid are being specified as glazed. This means that large panels of glass, beyond the capacity of fire test facilities, must be handled sensitively and installed within a bespoke system. This necessitates close liaison with certification authorities to identify what can be assessed from the test evidence provided. Of course, workplaces must be fire safe, look good, and feel pleasant to work in. The sheer complexity of the day-to-day office functionality is a difficult issue. Aesthetics are often a requirement that is added to the fire resistance of fire doors. But it’s often the case that suitably certified hardware simply doesn’t exist. Glass office partition systems Can fire safety and great design coexist in the office space? Yes, definitely. Can fire safety and great design coexist in the office space? Yes, definitely. This is because, the latest glazed and sliding doors, adjustable ‘office pods’, and acoustically-optimized walls are all made with fire safety, sustainability, and elegant design in mind. Many glass office partition systems allow natural light and air circulation to flow through the room, which helps to improve employee well-being and boosts performance. Fire safety is of the utmost importance Fire safety and design can harmoniously co-exist in an office space, but it comes down to managing expectations. Fire safety is of the utmost importance, and as the requirements tighten, the commercial office industry will catch up with fire safety standards, testing and reporting regimes, and ongoing compliance. Fortunately, fantastic fire-resistant workplace solutions are entering the market, built for safety, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal.
Editor's Dispatch
Among residential fire hazards, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is probably not at the top of the list. However, there are fire risk factors related to HVAC that can be mitigated through greater awareness and additional precautions. The reality is that an HVAC fire, like any other, can be dangerous and even deadly. flammable refrigerants The use of flammable refrigerants in HVAC systems is a growing trend since newer refrigerants that do not contribute to global warming can also be mildly flammable. However, these materials do not pose a fire threat because they are tightly sealed inside systems during manufacture and using standard regulations. Fire risks Factors Proper installation and maintenance of HVAC systems can significantly reduce the dangers of factors Fire risks related to HVAC include factors such as overheating motors, faulty electrical wiring, and leaky fuel lines. Educating consumers on the fire risks of HVAC systems contributes to fire prevention. Proper installation and maintenance of HVAC systems can significantly reduce the dangers of factors such as gas leaks. Faulty wiring Faulty wiring is the top reason an air conditioner might catch fire. Rusted wires should be replaced, and wiring should be insulated end-to-end. Sparks from faulty electrical connections can land on something flammable and ignite a fire. Faulty wiring can quickly cause an HVAC fire, and frayed, disconnected, or corroded wire should be repaired quickly. Over time, connections can become loose, which can burn the wires and cause a fire. Wiring should match a unit’s amperage, too. clutter crowding HVAC equipment A three-foot buffer area should be maintained between HVAC equipment and any stored materials Also contributing to a fire hazard is clutter crowding HVAC equipment. Things such as boxes, crates, extra clothing, holiday decorations, brooms, cleaning supplies, and other items can increase the risk of fire if they are stored too near HVAC equipment. Especially dangerous are any flammable materials, such as aerosols, oils, or sprays. A three-foot buffer area should be maintained between HVAC equipment and any stored materials. Dirt, debris, and appliances Bushes or other appliances near an outdoor unit can also increase fire risk. Debris, leaves, and paper should also be kept away from the unit. Dirt, dust, and debris can contribute to fire risks related to HVAC equipment. Dirt accumulating inside a system’s motor can cause overheating. The dirt inside vents and/or coils can obstruct airflow, which can lead to a fire hazard. Insufficient lubrication Voltage level, either too high or too low, can also make a motor overheat Insufficient lubrication is another factor, contributing to friction and shortening the life of motor bearings. Voltage level, either too high or too low, can also make a motor overheat. Blown-out parts or components could cause an air conditioner to overheat. An overworked system could catch fire. gas furnaces In addition to fires, gas furnaces also pose other dangers, such as carbon monoxide poisoning. Cracked heat exchangers in HVAC systems can leak carbon monoxide. In addition to smoke detectors, residents should install carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home, and keep them powered by replacing batteries as needed. Measures in HVAC-related fires A qualified HVAC technician can inspect the unit, assess needed repairs, or install a new unit In case of fire related to an HVAC system, the first thing to do is exit the building and surrounding area and call emergency services. After everyone is safe and the fire is contained, a qualified HVAC technician can inspect the unit, assess needed repairs, or install a new unit. scheduled routine maintenance Keeping up with scheduled routine maintenance visits can be an important preventative strategy. Heater and air conditioner systems should be checked at least once yearly. If there are gases or burning plastic smells, a technician should be contacted for an unscheduled inspection. Any foul odor from an HVAC system might signal burning wires, and the unit should be shut off to prevent further damage. Safe installation with professionals Fire risk increases if a system is installed by an inexperienced technician who is not trained Deploying professionals to work on an HVAC system can ensure they are installed safely. Fire risk increases if a system is installed by an inexperienced technician who is not trained to spot a potentially dangerous situation. Using professional services ensures peace of mind. Individual or portable AC units should be plugged directly into a power outlet without using extension cords, which could overheat or cause sparks. impact on indoor air quality An early signal of an HVAC fire might be smoke or burning smells coming from a gas furnace. Poorly fitting gas connections can cause leaks that negatively impact indoor air quality as well as increase fire risk. Leakage of highly flammable fuel, including oil, gas, or other substances, can ignite if it encounters hot elements of an HVAC unit. Fuel is highly flammable, but it is not a hazard if it remains safely within the lines.
As motor vehicle designs evolve, including the addition of lithium-ion batteries, for example, firefighters and first responders must also adapt. They need information about the vehicle’s fuel and energy usage and guidance on extricating occupants following an accident. Emergency Response Guides (ERGs) can help responders by using standardized labels, colors, symbols, and graphics to make emergency information more complete, accurate, and accessible during training and response. ISO 17840 ISO 17840 is an international standard that ensures first and second responders have fast and easy access to the information they need to perform their lifesaving duties in case of an automobile fire or accident. The ISO 17840 standard includes a template layout of ERGs to provide necessary and useful information about a vehicle involved in an accident. in-depth information The goal is to shorten the "golden hour" and quickly identify the energy source and hidden hazards on any vehicle The guide can be communicated in paper or electronic format. The goal is to shorten the "golden hour" and quickly identify the energy source and hidden hazards on any vehicle. The standard supports the team to rescue as many occupants as quickly and safely as possible. ERGs also provide in-depth information about fire, submersion, and leakage of fluids. New vehicle hazards Changing hazards of newer vehicles include propane- and LPG-powered vehicles that can explode more powerfully if tanks are heated, and fuel bottles that can become projectiles. Also, electric and hybrid vehicles have high-voltage batteries and electrical wiring that can electrocute first and second responders and victims if not properly disarmed. Furthermore, hydrogen and other fuel cells produce toxic and flammable gases that behave differently than gasoline or other traditional fuels. ERG template The ERG template follows in principle a flowchart for the main actions of first and second responders arriving at an accident scene. The template provides relevant information for a vehicle involved in a traffic accident (including immobilization, disabling of hazards, access to occupants, shut-off procedures, and handling of stored propulsion energy). Standardized colors and pictograms make it easier for first and second responders and vehicle manufacturers to understand each other. Information on the ERG is linked to the “rescue sheet” (ISO7840 parts 1 and 2) to inform training and development of rescue procedures. The headings/content of the rescue sheet and the ERG are aligned. knowledge and preparation Public safety organizations can download free examples of ISO 17840 templates for creating rescue sheets International Technical Committee for the Prevention and Extinction of Fire (CTIF), the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP), and the Swedish Institute for Standards (SIS) created the ISO 17840 standard. With more alternative fuels and propulsion systems entering the market, more knowledge and preparation are necessary in order to approach an accident scene safely. Public safety organizations, educational organizations, and first and second responders can download free examples of ISO 17840 pictograms, templates for creating rescue sheets for any vehicle, and other information to create ERGs for training purposes and as guides for local rescue procedures. recommendations of ISO 17840 Among the vehicle manufacturers who have complied with the recommendations of ISO 17840 are Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, and Volkswagen. In addition, another dozen or so manufacturers are progressing on the road to compliance, including BMW, Ford, General Motors, KIA, Nissan, Subaru, Tesla, and Toyota. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) maintains a collection of emergency response guides, and most manufacturers have posted their updated ERGs on their websites.
In Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, in May 2022, a helmet camera recorded firefighters extinguishing a truck fire along I-94, catching every detail as sparks flew and firefighters hosed down the truck to suppress the blaze. Firefighters also hosed down the grass on the side of the freeway to put out hot spots and prevent a grass fire, MLive.com reported. The helmet-cam was part of a voluntary program that involves Ann Arbor firefighters wearing cameras when responding to active structure fires to capture video that can be used as a training tool, in order to better understand what went right and what went wrong. Video can also be released to the public to showcase how tax dollars are being spent. A focus on structure fires precludes any concerns about privacy. Helmet-cams used by firefighters Helmet-cams used by firefighters can provide a valuable tool for training and post-incident analysis Helmet-cams used by firefighters can provide a valuable tool for training and post-incident analysis. On the other hand, they could impact how a firefighter does his or her job or even violate privacy concerns and/or the public trust. While debate around the use of body-cams by law enforcement officers has mostly been settled, opinions still vary about the use of helmet-cams by firefighters. In one sense, the rules and regulations have not caught up with the technology, including smaller (and inexpensive) video cameras that can easily (and even discreetly) be mounted on a firefighter’s helmet. Some departments have banned use of helmet-cams, while others have sought to restrict and control their use. Still others haven’t given it much thought. Multiple perspectives for post-incident analysis An advantage of helmet-cams is to record video of the actions of officers and firefighters at an incident and to provide multiple perspectives for post-incident analysis. Critiquing performance is a learning tool to encourage continuous improvement. In case of an injury or line-of-duty death (LODD), helmet-cam footage provides an unblinking record of exactly what occurred. If a time element is being assessed, a helmet-cam video can display each activity along with a time display, thus eliminating the need for a stopwatch. Clear and time-marked audio recording In addition to video, helmet-cams can provide a clear and time-marked audio recording, not limited by radio-frequency interference. (Audio recordings are subject to additional privacy concerns in some jurisdictions.) A possible downside of using helmet-cams is to distract a firefighter from his or her duties or to narrow their focus to the detriment of a broad awareness of their surroundings. It is important that a firefighter not miss something that is happening at the periphery of his or her line-of-sight. Helmet-Cams can distract a firefighter’s attention Conscious of how they appear in a video recording, a firefighter might be more guarded in their actions or words; at the other extreme, they might be tempted to “show off” for the camera by taking greater risks to provide more dramatic footage. A firefighter with a helmet-cam might also become preoccupied with operating the camera to optimize video to the detriment of other concerns. Becoming fixated on the technology can distract a firefighter’s attention from the real job at hand. Creating a policy that addresses issues are helmet-cams use Departments should consider carefully the issues surrounding helmet-cams and create a policy Departments should consider carefully the issues surrounding helmet-cams and create a policy that addresses those issues. Fire service leaders may benefit from collaborating with local police leaders who have worked with body-cam video and know the possible evidentiary value of video that can be captured on the devices. Fire departments should be aware that any captured footage may have evidentiary value, if it relates to a crime or police internal affairs investigation. Unlike body-cams used by police, which download video to the department at the end of a shift and are covered by department policy, helmet-cams are less restricted and less well-managed. Firefighters may even own their cameras. Privacy concerns surrounding the use of helmet-cams Some fire departments, such as Houston, San Antonio, and San Francisco, have banned helmet-cams because of privacy concerns and worries about how a video might embarrass a department. Privacy concerns include the use of helmet-cams in medical calls, which make up most a firefighter’s daily responses. There should be rules that ensure that videos do not eventually make their way to Internet sites such as YouTube. In New Jersey, for example, Cathy’s Law (passed in 2012) restricts images and recordings at emergency scenes, such as motor vehicle accidents.
Case studies
As a longtime maintenance provider for Trafalgar Theatres at their Orchard Theatre site in Dartford, Blake Fire & Security and Cygnus’ distributor Illumino Ignis (Kent) Ltd (IIKL) were approached for a solution to a unique problem: Satisfying the stringent fire safety requirements of their new temporary venue to hold 1,091 audience members, while the main Orchard Theatre was closed due to RAAC Works. SmartNet-Pro fire detection With a very short turnaround of a week, Blake Fire & Security and IIKL instantly knew that the Cygnus EN 54 certified, fully wireless SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm system would be a perfect fit for the venue. It provides an aesthetically pleasing solution and quick installation, with full EN 54 and BS5839 Part 1 compliance, while also allowing the right cause and effects for the theatre operation. SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features give a minimum of two communication paths to each wireless device Designed to deliver a reliable and safe solution, the SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features patented Cygnus technology and is run by battery-powered radio devices as part of a robust, self-forming, and self-healing mesh network, giving a minimum of two communication paths to each wireless device for maximum reliability. “We have worked with Cygnus and the SmartNet-Pro system previously and knew it would be ideal for this unique project,” comments Rory Foster, Fire Safety Systems Manager at Blake Fire & Security. 100% wireless “SmartNet-Pro is 100% wireless as well as being robust and reliable, it was exactly what we needed for the complexities of this project. We also knew we could rely on the Cygnus team to help deliver the project in a timely and efficient way.” Given the nature of the venue, the fire alarm system needed to have some advanced features to give the theatre control of the system. Factors to consider The Blake Fire & Security and IIKL team were required to consider these factors when creating the system: Smoke Machines being used during the performances. A function of the SmartNet-Pro panel allowed us to program a function on the button on the control panel to isolate the smoke elements of the detectors in the auditorium during performances (Show Mode) while keeping the Heat elements of the detectors functioning as normal. Heating pipes with hot air being blown throughout the site. By utilizing the Cygnus SmartNet-Pro Combi Smoke/Heat A1R detectors, we were able to only have the smoke detection parts active for devices in the stream of the hot air, to avoid A1R false alarms. The costly effect of a false alarm and evacuating the venue during a performance. By having a 30-second initial delay, and a 2.5-minute investigation delay, we satisfied both the Fire Service and the Theatre by allowing the theatre staff to assess the cause of the alarm before evacuating the venue, without leaving too long without the fire alarm activating if no one responded. The combustible nature of the building is mostly dressed in linen throughout. Additional smoke detectors were installed on the edges of the linen-draped ceilings at the request of the local fire authority, with high sensitivity smoke and heat detection to raise the alarm extremely quickly if the linen was likely to become compromised by fire. specification and design The whole process was taken care of without any design surprises at the end of the project After a free site survey and design service, Blake Fire & Security and IIKL provided the specification and design to the theatre who then got the design signed off by the local council and local fire authority. Working closely with the theatre and local council, amendments and additions were made to the design, so the whole process was taken care of without any design surprises at the end of the project. testing and demonstrations The SmartNet-Pro system of 65 devices was installed in a day, with another day allowed for testing and demonstrations; using rods and Unistrut fixings to fix detectors into positions where wired detectors would not feasibly be able to be installed. The fire alarm panel was installed by the stage door so that the stage door staff could hear when an activation has occurred, and then decide on whether to initiate the investigation delay. Zone Plan and As-Fitted Drawing The system was demonstrated to the crew, so they knew what the alarm sounded like, and how to react As with all Blake Fire & Security and IIKL installations, a framed Zone Plan and As Fitted Drawing were fitted by the Control Panel, to give the Theatre Staff and Fire Brigade instant knowledge of the building, and where the Fire Alarm activation has occurred. All members of the Stage Door crew were trained by Blake Fire & Security and IIKL in the operation of the system including all the advanced functions like the delays and “Show Mode”. The system was demonstrated to the crew, so they knew what the alarm sounded like, and how to react when the panel buzzer activates. high-level detection Rods with the detectors mounted onto them were clamped onto the trusses for the lighting, giving high-level detection in the auditorium where it was not possible to fix the black linen ceiling. These detectors were then programmed on the SmartNet-Pro system to be Heat Only when the system is in “Show Mode” to prevent unwanted alarms from special effect smoke used during performances. Manual Call Points Combi detectors were mounted just below the linen ceiling using rods clamped to the metal structure Ensuring all exits including stage exits were covered by Manual Call Points which would instantly evacuate the building without delay was imperative to allow occupants and staff in the venue to feel safe in the knowledge that if a person identifies a real fire, the fire alarm can be raised instantly at any exit from the building. The ceilings in the Front of the House have heating tubes running through them, so combi detectors were mounted to the side of this, just below the linen ceiling using rods clamped to the metal structure above the linen. smoke detection Extra smoke detection was installed along the low-level edges of the linen ceilings, on L Brackets, so that a fire could be detected quickly before the linen ceilings caught alight. These detectors were supplementary to the main detection along the apex of the ceilings. Given the nature of the ceilings, conventional wiring methods would not have been possible without a very unsightly installation, so the wireless nature of the Cygnus SmartNet-Pro system was an obvious choice. ongoing maintenance Blake Fire & Security and IIKL issued the O&M Manual with all certificates and drawings required for Building Control Following the completion of the installation, commissioning, and testing Blake Fire & Security and IIKL issued the O&M Manual with all certificates and drawings required for Building Control to sign off the system and deem the venue safe to open to the public. Blake Fire & Security and IIKL will provide ongoing maintenance of the system to ensure that the system is kept up-to-date and compliant. EN 54 certified, and BS 5839 compliant fire detection SmartNet-Pro is the world’s first 100% wireless, EN 54 certified, and BS 5839 compliant fire detection and alarm system while the new SmartNet-100 is ideal for small to medium-sized projects, where the scalability of SmartNet-Pro is not required. Cygnus was thrilled to support the project by providing a complete SmartNet-Pro system to guarantee the fire safety requirements were met.
Comelit-PAC has been working with partners - GB Integrated Systems to fit the latest fire safety systems at the Hop House in Deva City Office Park, in order to ensure the safety of all who work and visit the unique work environment. Part of the former Threlfalls Brewery, an iconic feature of the Manchester city skyline, Deva City Office Park presents an eclectic mix of business space presented in a Grade II listed Brewery building or 17 high-spec self-contained office units. Balancing modern design GB Integrated System worked directly with the site management team to upgrade the addressable panels With the need to offer 24 / 7 security and fire safety, GB Integrated System worked directly with the site management team to upgrade the addressable panels, and specified Comelit-PAC’s latest LogiFire solution. Iain Taylor, Director of Asset Management at Northwood Investors International Limited, said: “We knew we had complex requirements for Deva City when it came to security and fire safety, with each individual business on site needing its own risk assessments. This was set against the buildings themselves, where any upgrades had to be sympathetic to the specific interest Grade II classification and balance modern design and use of technology.” Easy fire safety solution Iain Taylor adds, “GB Integrated Systems made it a priority to understand this and work with us right from initial design and specification to implement a bespoke solution that could accommodate our requirements. From a fire safety perspective, Comelit-PAC was recommended, to ensure we could reduce installation time and minimize disruption to business activity for the benefit of our occupiers.” GB Integrated System specified Comelit-PAC’s LogiFire Easy fire safety solution. The office park required a stand-alone 1-loop analog addressable panel. Fire safety solution We recommended Comelit-PAC’s Logifire solution essentially because of its simple design" Mike Gray, Technical Director at GB Integrated Systems, stated: “We recommended Comelit-PAC’s Logifire solution essentially because of its simple design, and ability to easily install using existing cabling, so as not to interfere with the style of the development and its unique character. From the owner’s perspective, its style and flexibility of use means that it is the best fire safety solution to protect the occupiers collectively and blend seamlessly with its surroundings.” Logifire addressable system, has been designed to offer a simple to install, fire safety solution that is compliant with BS and EN standards. It is complemented with a range of detectors, offered with award-winning designs to ensure systems blend with their surroundings. Mind fire safety Mandy Bowden, Comelit-PAC Fire Manager, concluded: “When it comes to fire safety, the market is growing rapidly amid greater awareness of the need for risk assessments, remediation work, building upgrades and ongoing maintenance in the new-build sector as well as at existing sites. What our work with GB Integrated Systems at Deva City Office Park demonstrates is the need to assess each development as early as possible in a works program to ensure solutions meet exact requirements." She adds, "We understood that any upgrade had to be carefully considered with regards to how it will impact on the aesthetics of the overall premises. Together, we identified how LogiFire as a single solution, could be installed quickly and effectively for the benefit of all who work on-site. It allows for total peace of mind fire safety.”
Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc., a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation announces Airservices Australia has issued a purchase order for four Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® Volterra™ 6x6 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) hybrid electric vehicles. These environmentally advanced fire apparatus will be deployed at the new Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), set to open in 2026. Striker Volterra 6x6 The Striker Volterra 6x6 comes equipped with an Oshkosh-patented hybrid-electric drivetrain, featuring an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission. This enables zero-emissions operation through the integrated onboard batteries and uninterrupted power supply by coupling with the internal combustion engine for pumping and drive systems. innovative design Airservices Australia is making a significant investment to support the development of an 'airport of the future' WSI is a transformational infrastructure project expected to boost economic activity, provide local employment opportunities, meet Sydney's carbon-neutral sustainability initiatives, and meet the area’s growing aviation needs. Airservices Australia is a government entity making a significant investment to support the development of an 'airport of the future', featuring world-pioneering technology, innovative design, and a sustainability plan incorporating assets like the Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles. sustainability "As the first airport built in Australia in over 50 years, WSI is not just an airport; it's a statement of intent for a more sustainable future,” said Dave Archer, Vice President of Engineering for Oshkosh Vocational. He adds, “The Striker Volterra vehicles, with their hybrid electric technology, align perfectly with Airservices Australia and WSI’s goals. These vehicles are not only an asset to emergency response capabilities but also play a crucial role in larger environmental sustainability initiatives." environmentally conscious choice Dave Archer continues, "They symbolize a dedication to intelligent design, energy optimization, fire crew safety and efficiency, and ultimately, a carbon-neutral future." Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles demonstrate the most advanced acceleration and reduced fuel consumption compared to our standard diesel models, making them an environmentally conscious choice for emergency response services. Striker Volterra features Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models WSI’s four new Striker Volterra 6x6 vehicles will feature an industry-pioneering modular cab design, TAK-4® all-wheel independent suspension, and a 50’ Snozzle® High Reach Extendable Turret. They each house an 11,356-liter (3,000-gallon) water tank, a 1,590-liter (420-gallon) foam tank, and a 7,570 lpm (2,000 gpm) water pump, along with a 250 kg (550 lb.) dry chemical powder system. Accelerating from 0 to 80 kph (0 to 50 mph) in under 25 seconds, the Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models when fully loaded. training, implementation, and service support Dave Archer said, “The collaboration between Oshkosh Airport Products and Airservices Australia marks a significant step forward in the aviation industry's commitment to sustainability." He adds, "We remain committed to a strong partnership, providing world-class training, seamless implementation, and unwavering service support to ensure these vehicles exceed expectations in the critical missions of ARFF crews.” By leveraging new technologies and innovations like Oshkosh Airport Products’ Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles, WSI will showcase the feasibility of low-carbon operations and set a new standard for airports worldwide.
A man has suffered burns to his arm and leg after a fire involving an e-bike at a property in North St Marys, in Sydney's west. Fire and Rescue NSW crews were called just after 4.00am this morning following a Triple Zero call reporting a fire and explosions at a property in Glossop Street. Firefighter Response On arrival, firefighters found an e-bike alight, with a man nearby suffering burn. Crews quickly extinguished the fire before removing the bike's lithium-ion battery and submerging it in water to prevent reignition. The man was initially treated by firefighters at the scene prior to the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics. He was later transported to hospital. Investigations are underway into the cause of the fire, including whether the e-bike had been modified. Battery Safety Tips FRNSW urges the community to make sure they shop, charge and recycle lithium-ion battery products safely: Never charge in exits or anywhere that would prevent you from escaping in the event of a fire Install active smoke alarms in your home/garage Always buy reputable lithium-ion battery brands and never ‘mix and match’ components Don’t leave devices charging in bedrooms or on beds, sofas or around highly flammable materials Try to charge devices outside if possible Beware of cheap, substandard lithium-ion battery-powered devices Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing battery cells If lithium-ion batteries are damaged or compromised, dispose of them properly Don’t throw them out in the rubbish, they can start garbage truck or rubbish tip fires when compacted Contact your local, approved recycling centre for disposal advice Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials Ensure you have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire.
Three Fire and Rescue NSW officers have been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in Australia Day Honours. The recipients of the top emergency service recognition include Superintendent Gregory Houston, Station Officer Samuel Parkhouse and Grafton Captain Garry Reardon. Exceptional Bravery The Australian Fire Service Medal is one of the highest honours an Australian firefighter can receive. Established in 1988, the Australian Fire Service Medal is one of the highest honours an Australian firefighter can receive. The medal is awarded to firefighters who have demonstrated exceptional service, initiative and performance during their careers well beyond the normal expectations of a person in their position. The medals are awarded on Australia Day and the King’s birthday holiday each year by the Governor-General, on recommendation of Commonwealth and State ministers. Aviation Pioneer Superintendent Gregory Houston during his 35-year career, Superintendent Gregory Houston of Stanwell Park has demonstrated unwavering commitment, selflessness, compassion and dedication to firefighting, community safety and mentoring future pioneers within the organisation. Superintendent Houston was FRNSW’s first aviation officer and worked with NSW Police’s Air Wing to enhance the fire service’s Counter Terrorism capability, played a vital role in improving and expanding FRNSW’s Urban Search and Rescue competences, and deployed to various natural disasters including the Thredbo landslide, Christchurch earthquake and Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu. Community Commitment Committed to maintaining FRNSW’s culture and tradition, in 2022 Superintendent Houston was instrumental in re-establishing the NSW Fire Brigades RSL sub-Branch of which he currently holds the position of President. He has also led the FRNSW Ceremonial Team, served as a Peer Support Officer, is a former committee member of the FRNSW Relief and Welfare Fund, and is a current Board Member of the Museum of Fire. He mentors officers and firefighters, creating close bonds and playing a crucial role in upholding FRNSW’s values and service to the NSW community. During his career, Superintendent Houston has been awarded the Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal; National Emergency Medal; National Medal; Australian Defence Medal; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation; NZ Government Canterbury Earthquake Citation; NSWFB Long Service and Good Conduct Medal; a Letter of Commendation from the Royal Humane Society of NSW and a Commissioner’s Letter of Appreciation in 2001. Resilience Through Experience Station Officer Samuel Parkhouse Since joining FRNSW in 2006, Station Officer Samuel Parkhouse of Seven Hills has been dedicated to serving the community of NSW in the specialist areas of Rescue, and Urban Search and Rescue. Having witnessed firsthand the effects of traumatic incidents and the risk of psychological injury to firefighters through their exposure at disasters such as 2015 Dungog floods, 2017 Cyclone Debbie, 2022 Northern Rivers Floods, 2019/20 Bushfires, and the aftermath of the 2023 Türkiye Earthquake. Station Officer Parkhouse set out to create a firefighter-centric and holistic approach to assist mental health treatment, enabling effective integration back to the workplace. Wellness Summit Initiative Station Officer Parkhouse developed and implemented the FRNSW Wellness Summit, an innovative and ground-breaking mental health support program with the intent of providing evidence-based trauma support which was specifically tailored to meet the unique needs – and nature – of firefighters. He devoted over 12 months of his own time researching and planning this concept, meeting with practitioners and trialing various practices. The summit was piloted in 2022 and presented an innovative and ground-breaking mental health support program which has since been recognised by other emergency services and government agencies across the country. Service Awards During his career, Station Officer Parkhouse has been awarded; National Emergency Medal; National Medal; Unit Citation for 2019/20 NSW Bushfire Emergency; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation: FRNSW Long Service and Good Conduct Medal; a Commissioner’s Letter of Appreciation; Premier’s Bushfire Citation; and a Commissioners Safety Award. Volunteer Spirit Captain Garry Reardon Captain Garry Reardon initially joined FRNSW in Grafton in 1983 and undertook the role of a volunteer firefighter for eight years. He resigned in 1991 due to family and education commitments but rejoined in 1998 and has faithfully served FRNSW and his local community ever since. Crisis Management Expertise Appointed Captain in 2009, Garry has supported, deployed and led his firefighters in many local natural disasters including the Clarence River Floods of 2009, 2011 and 2013, the 2017 Cyclone Debbie response, 2021 Port Macquire Hasting River Floods, the 2019/2020 Bushfires, and most recently, 2022 Lismore floods. Excellence in Fire Safety His pioneership over many years has ensured his firefighters focus on community safety Captain Reardon’s care and compassion extends to ensuring his community is safer from the impacts of fire. His pioneership over many years has ensured his firefighters focus on community safety driven education to many at-risk groups in and surrounding Grafton. Aside from his firefighting duties, Captain Reardon has trained and mentored cyclists at Grafton Cycle Club since 1985, volunteered at Woolgoolga Surf Club, played and umpired cricket at local and district levels as well as coached the local women’s hockey team. During his career, Captain Reardon has been awarded the National Medal, Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation and the FRNSW Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. Honouring Bravery Quotes attributable to Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell “I congratulate the three recipients on being recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours. It is a tremendous achievement to be recognised in this manner. “I am extremely proud our people have been acknowledged for their professionalism, commitment and courage in their careers. “Each of the recipients of this prestigious medal has demonstrated an exceptional level of service to FRNSW and their local communities for many years. “Whether it’s contributing to improving fire safety, mentoring and supporting other firefighters, spearheading change or developing better and safer equipment and response capabilities, each of these officers has made an invaluable contribution to FRNSW and the people of NSW.”
Fire safety is one of the most critical paths of industrial operations especially in manufacturing plants. Factories handle a lot of combustible materials, flammable liquids and electrical machinery that can cause fires if not properly managed well. Palladium Safety Solutions completely specialize in providing top tire safety solutions to protect businesses from catastrophic fire hazards. Here in this case study, people can learn everything about how the fire safety solutions prevent a major disaster at a large manufacturing plant. The manufacturing plant and its fire safety challenges The manufacturing plant that will help is the major producer of industrial equipment operating in a 1, 00, 000 square foot facility. The plant houses different production units, including welding solutions, painting booths and chemical storage areas. It employs more than 500 workers and operates 24/7 to meet the high production demands. Fire safety challenges Overload circuits, faulty wiring and overheating machines posed a major fire risk Overload circuits, faulty wiring and overheating machines posed a major fire risk. The plant stored large amounts of chemicals, solvents and gases increasing the likelihood of outbreaks. While the plant fire extinguishers lacked the advanced fire suppression system. The workers were not sufficiently trained in fire safety protocols, which could also lead to slow response in emergencies. The existing smoke detectors were old and unreliable that led to delays in fire detection. Considering all these risks the plant needs a complete fire safety overall to ensure the safety of employees and even prevent damage to infrastructure. Palladium’s safety solutions After conducting a thorough risk assessment, they implemented a comprehensive fire safety plan tailored to the plant’s requirements. They had placed the outdated smoke detectors with modern high sensitivity fire alarm systems. These detectors can quickly identify smoke and also heat changes allowing early warning alerts for plants. They install an automatic fire suppression unit also like sprinkler systems that activate automatically when a file is detected. It helps contain small fires before they spread. Gas based suppression for sensitive areas are really important in areas with electronic equipment. They have used gas based suppression instead of water to prevent damage. To reduce the risk of electrical fires, they inspected and so upgraded faulty wiring and installed circuit Breakers to prevent overloads. Their experts have implemented regular maintenance scheduled for electrical equipment. They conducted fire safety training sessions for all employees covering how to use fire extinguishers correctly and evacuation procedures in case of fire. They can help identify the hazards in the workplace. They have designed a clear fire exit plan and placed visible emergency exit signs throughout the plant. They also organize monthly fire drills to ensure that the workers know how to react swiftly in an emergency. They have introduced safety protocols for handling flammable substances like storing chemicals in fire resistant cabinets and using proper ventilation and chemical storage areas, while implementing a labeling system to identify hazardous materials. how Palladium's solutions prevented disaster? Three months after they implemented a new fire safety solution, the plant faced a real life emergency. One of the welding machines malfunctioned causing a major spark that ignited flammable fumes in the painting booth. The advanced fire alarm system detected the smoke immediately and triggered an alarm Within seconds flames started spreading towards the chemical storage area. The advanced fire alarm system detected the smoke immediately and triggered an alarm. The sprinkler activated and also controlled the flames. In the chemical storage area, the gas based fire suppression system prevented the fire from spreading. Because of the fire safety training, workers responded well. They also used fire extinguishers to control small flames and evacuated safely. Local fire department notified instantly The local fire department was notified instantly and they arrived within just a few minutes, so as to ensure a complete containment. There were no injuries or casualties occurred and there was minimum property damage, as the fire was contained in less than five minutes. Impact of Palladium’s safety solutions The best part about Palladium’s safety solutions is that the employees felt really confident working in a safer environment. The training and drills ensured they knew how to react and agencies. By preventing a major fire the plant saved a lot of damage, legal liabilities and downtime expenses. Palladium’s solutions helped the plant meet all the required fire safety standards and avoid fines or even penalties. With a safer work environment, employees could focus on their work without the stress of fire hazards will stop. Palladium Safety Solutions secure manufacturing plant So above all, Palladium Safety Solutions are completely committed to provide the best fire safety solutions to protect businesses from devastating fire accidents. Their successful intervention at the manufacturing plant completely demonstrates the importance of advanced fire detection suppression employee training and risk assessment. By investing in fire safety, property managers can protect their employees’ assets and operations.
As a longtime maintenance provider for Trafalgar Theatres at their Orchard Theatre site in Dartford, Blake Fire & Security and Cygnus’ distributor Illumino Ignis (Kent) Ltd (IIKL) were approached for a solution to a unique problem: Satisfying the stringent fire safety requirements of their new temporary venue to hold 1,091 audience members, while the main Orchard Theatre was closed due to RAAC Works. SmartNet-Pro fire detection With a very short turnaround of a week, Blake Fire & Security and IIKL instantly knew that the Cygnus EN 54 certified, fully wireless SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm system would be a perfect fit for the venue. It provides an aesthetically pleasing solution and quick installation, with full EN 54 and BS5839 Part 1 compliance, while also allowing the right cause and effects for the theatre operation. SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features give a minimum of two communication paths to each wireless device Designed to deliver a reliable and safe solution, the SmartNet-Pro range’s wireless network features patented Cygnus technology and is run by battery-powered radio devices as part of a robust, self-forming, and self-healing mesh network, giving a minimum of two communication paths to each wireless device for maximum reliability. “We have worked with Cygnus and the SmartNet-Pro system previously and knew it would be ideal for this unique project,” comments Rory Foster, Fire Safety Systems Manager at Blake Fire & Security. 100% wireless “SmartNet-Pro is 100% wireless as well as being robust and reliable, it was exactly what we needed for the complexities of this project. We also knew we could rely on the Cygnus team to help deliver the project in a timely and efficient way.” Given the nature of the venue, the fire alarm system needed to have some advanced features to give the theatre control of the system. Factors to consider The Blake Fire & Security and IIKL team were required to consider these factors when creating the system: Smoke Machines being used during the performances. A function of the SmartNet-Pro panel allowed us to program a function on the button on the control panel to isolate the smoke elements of the detectors in the auditorium during performances (Show Mode) while keeping the Heat elements of the detectors functioning as normal. Heating pipes with hot air being blown throughout the site. By utilizing the Cygnus SmartNet-Pro Combi Smoke/Heat A1R detectors, we were able to only have the smoke detection parts active for devices in the stream of the hot air, to avoid A1R false alarms. The costly effect of a false alarm and evacuating the venue during a performance. By having a 30-second initial delay, and a 2.5-minute investigation delay, we satisfied both the Fire Service and the Theatre by allowing the theatre staff to assess the cause of the alarm before evacuating the venue, without leaving too long without the fire alarm activating if no one responded. The combustible nature of the building is mostly dressed in linen throughout. Additional smoke detectors were installed on the edges of the linen-draped ceilings at the request of the local fire authority, with high sensitivity smoke and heat detection to raise the alarm extremely quickly if the linen was likely to become compromised by fire. specification and design The whole process was taken care of without any design surprises at the end of the project After a free site survey and design service, Blake Fire & Security and IIKL provided the specification and design to the theatre who then got the design signed off by the local council and local fire authority. Working closely with the theatre and local council, amendments and additions were made to the design, so the whole process was taken care of without any design surprises at the end of the project. testing and demonstrations The SmartNet-Pro system of 65 devices was installed in a day, with another day allowed for testing and demonstrations; using rods and Unistrut fixings to fix detectors into positions where wired detectors would not feasibly be able to be installed. The fire alarm panel was installed by the stage door so that the stage door staff could hear when an activation has occurred, and then decide on whether to initiate the investigation delay. Zone Plan and As-Fitted Drawing The system was demonstrated to the crew, so they knew what the alarm sounded like, and how to react As with all Blake Fire & Security and IIKL installations, a framed Zone Plan and As Fitted Drawing were fitted by the Control Panel, to give the Theatre Staff and Fire Brigade instant knowledge of the building, and where the Fire Alarm activation has occurred. All members of the Stage Door crew were trained by Blake Fire & Security and IIKL in the operation of the system including all the advanced functions like the delays and “Show Mode”. The system was demonstrated to the crew, so they knew what the alarm sounded like, and how to react when the panel buzzer activates. high-level detection Rods with the detectors mounted onto them were clamped onto the trusses for the lighting, giving high-level detection in the auditorium where it was not possible to fix the black linen ceiling. These detectors were then programmed on the SmartNet-Pro system to be Heat Only when the system is in “Show Mode” to prevent unwanted alarms from special effect smoke used during performances. Manual Call Points Combi detectors were mounted just below the linen ceiling using rods clamped to the metal structure Ensuring all exits including stage exits were covered by Manual Call Points which would instantly evacuate the building without delay was imperative to allow occupants and staff in the venue to feel safe in the knowledge that if a person identifies a real fire, the fire alarm can be raised instantly at any exit from the building. The ceilings in the Front of the House have heating tubes running through them, so combi detectors were mounted to the side of this, just below the linen ceiling using rods clamped to the metal structure above the linen. smoke detection Extra smoke detection was installed along the low-level edges of the linen ceilings, on L Brackets, so that a fire could be detected quickly before the linen ceilings caught alight. These detectors were supplementary to the main detection along the apex of the ceilings. Given the nature of the ceilings, conventional wiring methods would not have been possible without a very unsightly installation, so the wireless nature of the Cygnus SmartNet-Pro system was an obvious choice. ongoing maintenance Blake Fire & Security and IIKL issued the O&M Manual with all certificates and drawings required for Building Control Following the completion of the installation, commissioning, and testing Blake Fire & Security and IIKL issued the O&M Manual with all certificates and drawings required for Building Control to sign off the system and deem the venue safe to open to the public. Blake Fire & Security and IIKL will provide ongoing maintenance of the system to ensure that the system is kept up-to-date and compliant. EN 54 certified, and BS 5839 compliant fire detection SmartNet-Pro is the world’s first 100% wireless, EN 54 certified, and BS 5839 compliant fire detection and alarm system while the new SmartNet-100 is ideal for small to medium-sized projects, where the scalability of SmartNet-Pro is not required. Cygnus was thrilled to support the project by providing a complete SmartNet-Pro system to guarantee the fire safety requirements were met.
Comelit-PAC has been working with partners - GB Integrated Systems to fit the latest fire safety systems at the Hop House in Deva City Office Park, in order to ensure the safety of all who work and visit the unique work environment. Part of the former Threlfalls Brewery, an iconic feature of the Manchester city skyline, Deva City Office Park presents an eclectic mix of business space presented in a Grade II listed Brewery building or 17 high-spec self-contained office units. Balancing modern design GB Integrated System worked directly with the site management team to upgrade the addressable panels With the need to offer 24 / 7 security and fire safety, GB Integrated System worked directly with the site management team to upgrade the addressable panels, and specified Comelit-PAC’s latest LogiFire solution. Iain Taylor, Director of Asset Management at Northwood Investors International Limited, said: “We knew we had complex requirements for Deva City when it came to security and fire safety, with each individual business on site needing its own risk assessments. This was set against the buildings themselves, where any upgrades had to be sympathetic to the specific interest Grade II classification and balance modern design and use of technology.” Easy fire safety solution Iain Taylor adds, “GB Integrated Systems made it a priority to understand this and work with us right from initial design and specification to implement a bespoke solution that could accommodate our requirements. From a fire safety perspective, Comelit-PAC was recommended, to ensure we could reduce installation time and minimize disruption to business activity for the benefit of our occupiers.” GB Integrated System specified Comelit-PAC’s LogiFire Easy fire safety solution. The office park required a stand-alone 1-loop analog addressable panel. Fire safety solution We recommended Comelit-PAC’s Logifire solution essentially because of its simple design" Mike Gray, Technical Director at GB Integrated Systems, stated: “We recommended Comelit-PAC’s Logifire solution essentially because of its simple design, and ability to easily install using existing cabling, so as not to interfere with the style of the development and its unique character. From the owner’s perspective, its style and flexibility of use means that it is the best fire safety solution to protect the occupiers collectively and blend seamlessly with its surroundings.” Logifire addressable system, has been designed to offer a simple to install, fire safety solution that is compliant with BS and EN standards. It is complemented with a range of detectors, offered with award-winning designs to ensure systems blend with their surroundings. Mind fire safety Mandy Bowden, Comelit-PAC Fire Manager, concluded: “When it comes to fire safety, the market is growing rapidly amid greater awareness of the need for risk assessments, remediation work, building upgrades and ongoing maintenance in the new-build sector as well as at existing sites. What our work with GB Integrated Systems at Deva City Office Park demonstrates is the need to assess each development as early as possible in a works program to ensure solutions meet exact requirements." She adds, "We understood that any upgrade had to be carefully considered with regards to how it will impact on the aesthetics of the overall premises. Together, we identified how LogiFire as a single solution, could be installed quickly and effectively for the benefit of all who work on-site. It allows for total peace of mind fire safety.”
Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc., a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation announces Airservices Australia has issued a purchase order for four Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® Volterra™ 6x6 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) hybrid electric vehicles. These environmentally advanced fire apparatus will be deployed at the new Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), set to open in 2026. Striker Volterra 6x6 The Striker Volterra 6x6 comes equipped with an Oshkosh-patented hybrid-electric drivetrain, featuring an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission. This enables zero-emissions operation through the integrated onboard batteries and uninterrupted power supply by coupling with the internal combustion engine for pumping and drive systems. innovative design Airservices Australia is making a significant investment to support the development of an 'airport of the future' WSI is a transformational infrastructure project expected to boost economic activity, provide local employment opportunities, meet Sydney's carbon-neutral sustainability initiatives, and meet the area’s growing aviation needs. Airservices Australia is a government entity making a significant investment to support the development of an 'airport of the future', featuring world-pioneering technology, innovative design, and a sustainability plan incorporating assets like the Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles. sustainability "As the first airport built in Australia in over 50 years, WSI is not just an airport; it's a statement of intent for a more sustainable future,” said Dave Archer, Vice President of Engineering for Oshkosh Vocational. He adds, “The Striker Volterra vehicles, with their hybrid electric technology, align perfectly with Airservices Australia and WSI’s goals. These vehicles are not only an asset to emergency response capabilities but also play a crucial role in larger environmental sustainability initiatives." environmentally conscious choice Dave Archer continues, "They symbolize a dedication to intelligent design, energy optimization, fire crew safety and efficiency, and ultimately, a carbon-neutral future." Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles demonstrate the most advanced acceleration and reduced fuel consumption compared to our standard diesel models, making them an environmentally conscious choice for emergency response services. Striker Volterra features Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models WSI’s four new Striker Volterra 6x6 vehicles will feature an industry-pioneering modular cab design, TAK-4® all-wheel independent suspension, and a 50’ Snozzle® High Reach Extendable Turret. They each house an 11,356-liter (3,000-gallon) water tank, a 1,590-liter (420-gallon) foam tank, and a 7,570 lpm (2,000 gpm) water pump, along with a 250 kg (550 lb.) dry chemical powder system. Accelerating from 0 to 80 kph (0 to 50 mph) in under 25 seconds, the Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models when fully loaded. training, implementation, and service support Dave Archer said, “The collaboration between Oshkosh Airport Products and Airservices Australia marks a significant step forward in the aviation industry's commitment to sustainability." He adds, "We remain committed to a strong partnership, providing world-class training, seamless implementation, and unwavering service support to ensure these vehicles exceed expectations in the critical missions of ARFF crews.” By leveraging new technologies and innovations like Oshkosh Airport Products’ Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles, WSI will showcase the feasibility of low-carbon operations and set a new standard for airports worldwide.
A man has suffered burns to his arm and leg after a fire involving an e-bike at a property in North St Marys, in Sydney's west. Fire and Rescue NSW crews were called just after 4.00am this morning following a Triple Zero call reporting a fire and explosions at a property in Glossop Street. Firefighter Response On arrival, firefighters found an e-bike alight, with a man nearby suffering burn. Crews quickly extinguished the fire before removing the bike's lithium-ion battery and submerging it in water to prevent reignition. The man was initially treated by firefighters at the scene prior to the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics. He was later transported to hospital. Investigations are underway into the cause of the fire, including whether the e-bike had been modified. Battery Safety Tips FRNSW urges the community to make sure they shop, charge and recycle lithium-ion battery products safely: Never charge in exits or anywhere that would prevent you from escaping in the event of a fire Install active smoke alarms in your home/garage Always buy reputable lithium-ion battery brands and never ‘mix and match’ components Don’t leave devices charging in bedrooms or on beds, sofas or around highly flammable materials Try to charge devices outside if possible Beware of cheap, substandard lithium-ion battery-powered devices Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing battery cells If lithium-ion batteries are damaged or compromised, dispose of them properly Don’t throw them out in the rubbish, they can start garbage truck or rubbish tip fires when compacted Contact your local, approved recycling centre for disposal advice Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials Ensure you have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire.
Three Fire and Rescue NSW officers have been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in Australia Day Honours. The recipients of the top emergency service recognition include Superintendent Gregory Houston, Station Officer Samuel Parkhouse and Grafton Captain Garry Reardon. Exceptional Bravery The Australian Fire Service Medal is one of the highest honours an Australian firefighter can receive. Established in 1988, the Australian Fire Service Medal is one of the highest honours an Australian firefighter can receive. The medal is awarded to firefighters who have demonstrated exceptional service, initiative and performance during their careers well beyond the normal expectations of a person in their position. The medals are awarded on Australia Day and the King’s birthday holiday each year by the Governor-General, on recommendation of Commonwealth and State ministers. Aviation Pioneer Superintendent Gregory Houston during his 35-year career, Superintendent Gregory Houston of Stanwell Park has demonstrated unwavering commitment, selflessness, compassion and dedication to firefighting, community safety and mentoring future pioneers within the organisation. Superintendent Houston was FRNSW’s first aviation officer and worked with NSW Police’s Air Wing to enhance the fire service’s Counter Terrorism capability, played a vital role in improving and expanding FRNSW’s Urban Search and Rescue competences, and deployed to various natural disasters including the Thredbo landslide, Christchurch earthquake and Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu. Community Commitment Committed to maintaining FRNSW’s culture and tradition, in 2022 Superintendent Houston was instrumental in re-establishing the NSW Fire Brigades RSL sub-Branch of which he currently holds the position of President. He has also led the FRNSW Ceremonial Team, served as a Peer Support Officer, is a former committee member of the FRNSW Relief and Welfare Fund, and is a current Board Member of the Museum of Fire. He mentors officers and firefighters, creating close bonds and playing a crucial role in upholding FRNSW’s values and service to the NSW community. During his career, Superintendent Houston has been awarded the Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal; National Emergency Medal; National Medal; Australian Defence Medal; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation; NZ Government Canterbury Earthquake Citation; NSWFB Long Service and Good Conduct Medal; a Letter of Commendation from the Royal Humane Society of NSW and a Commissioner’s Letter of Appreciation in 2001. Resilience Through Experience Station Officer Samuel Parkhouse Since joining FRNSW in 2006, Station Officer Samuel Parkhouse of Seven Hills has been dedicated to serving the community of NSW in the specialist areas of Rescue, and Urban Search and Rescue. Having witnessed firsthand the effects of traumatic incidents and the risk of psychological injury to firefighters through their exposure at disasters such as 2015 Dungog floods, 2017 Cyclone Debbie, 2022 Northern Rivers Floods, 2019/20 Bushfires, and the aftermath of the 2023 Türkiye Earthquake. Station Officer Parkhouse set out to create a firefighter-centric and holistic approach to assist mental health treatment, enabling effective integration back to the workplace. Wellness Summit Initiative Station Officer Parkhouse developed and implemented the FRNSW Wellness Summit, an innovative and ground-breaking mental health support program with the intent of providing evidence-based trauma support which was specifically tailored to meet the unique needs – and nature – of firefighters. He devoted over 12 months of his own time researching and planning this concept, meeting with practitioners and trialing various practices. The summit was piloted in 2022 and presented an innovative and ground-breaking mental health support program which has since been recognised by other emergency services and government agencies across the country. Service Awards During his career, Station Officer Parkhouse has been awarded; National Emergency Medal; National Medal; Unit Citation for 2019/20 NSW Bushfire Emergency; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation: FRNSW Long Service and Good Conduct Medal; a Commissioner’s Letter of Appreciation; Premier’s Bushfire Citation; and a Commissioners Safety Award. Volunteer Spirit Captain Garry Reardon Captain Garry Reardon initially joined FRNSW in Grafton in 1983 and undertook the role of a volunteer firefighter for eight years. He resigned in 1991 due to family and education commitments but rejoined in 1998 and has faithfully served FRNSW and his local community ever since. Crisis Management Expertise Appointed Captain in 2009, Garry has supported, deployed and led his firefighters in many local natural disasters including the Clarence River Floods of 2009, 2011 and 2013, the 2017 Cyclone Debbie response, 2021 Port Macquire Hasting River Floods, the 2019/2020 Bushfires, and most recently, 2022 Lismore floods. Excellence in Fire Safety His pioneership over many years has ensured his firefighters focus on community safety Captain Reardon’s care and compassion extends to ensuring his community is safer from the impacts of fire. His pioneership over many years has ensured his firefighters focus on community safety driven education to many at-risk groups in and surrounding Grafton. Aside from his firefighting duties, Captain Reardon has trained and mentored cyclists at Grafton Cycle Club since 1985, volunteered at Woolgoolga Surf Club, played and umpired cricket at local and district levels as well as coached the local women’s hockey team. During his career, Captain Reardon has been awarded the National Medal, Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service; NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation and the FRNSW Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. Honouring Bravery Quotes attributable to Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell “I congratulate the three recipients on being recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours. It is a tremendous achievement to be recognised in this manner. “I am extremely proud our people have been acknowledged for their professionalism, commitment and courage in their careers. “Each of the recipients of this prestigious medal has demonstrated an exceptional level of service to FRNSW and their local communities for many years. “Whether it’s contributing to improving fire safety, mentoring and supporting other firefighters, spearheading change or developing better and safer equipment and response capabilities, each of these officers has made an invaluable contribution to FRNSW and the people of NSW.”
Fire safety is one of the most critical paths of industrial operations especially in manufacturing plants. Factories handle a lot of combustible materials, flammable liquids and electrical machinery that can cause fires if not properly managed well. Palladium Safety Solutions completely specialize in providing top tire safety solutions to protect businesses from catastrophic fire hazards. Here in this case study, people can learn everything about how the fire safety solutions prevent a major disaster at a large manufacturing plant. The manufacturing plant and its fire safety challenges The manufacturing plant that will help is the major producer of industrial equipment operating in a 1, 00, 000 square foot facility. The plant houses different production units, including welding solutions, painting booths and chemical storage areas. It employs more than 500 workers and operates 24/7 to meet the high production demands. Fire safety challenges Overload circuits, faulty wiring and overheating machines posed a major fire risk Overload circuits, faulty wiring and overheating machines posed a major fire risk. The plant stored large amounts of chemicals, solvents and gases increasing the likelihood of outbreaks. While the plant fire extinguishers lacked the advanced fire suppression system. The workers were not sufficiently trained in fire safety protocols, which could also lead to slow response in emergencies. The existing smoke detectors were old and unreliable that led to delays in fire detection. Considering all these risks the plant needs a complete fire safety overall to ensure the safety of employees and even prevent damage to infrastructure. Palladium’s safety solutions After conducting a thorough risk assessment, they implemented a comprehensive fire safety plan tailored to the plant’s requirements. They had placed the outdated smoke detectors with modern high sensitivity fire alarm systems. These detectors can quickly identify smoke and also heat changes allowing early warning alerts for plants. They install an automatic fire suppression unit also like sprinkler systems that activate automatically when a file is detected. It helps contain small fires before they spread. Gas based suppression for sensitive areas are really important in areas with electronic equipment. They have used gas based suppression instead of water to prevent damage. To reduce the risk of electrical fires, they inspected and so upgraded faulty wiring and installed circuit Breakers to prevent overloads. Their experts have implemented regular maintenance scheduled for electrical equipment. They conducted fire safety training sessions for all employees covering how to use fire extinguishers correctly and evacuation procedures in case of fire. They can help identify the hazards in the workplace. They have designed a clear fire exit plan and placed visible emergency exit signs throughout the plant. They also organize monthly fire drills to ensure that the workers know how to react swiftly in an emergency. They have introduced safety protocols for handling flammable substances like storing chemicals in fire resistant cabinets and using proper ventilation and chemical storage areas, while implementing a labeling system to identify hazardous materials. how Palladium's solutions prevented disaster? Three months after they implemented a new fire safety solution, the plant faced a real life emergency. One of the welding machines malfunctioned causing a major spark that ignited flammable fumes in the painting booth. The advanced fire alarm system detected the smoke immediately and triggered an alarm Within seconds flames started spreading towards the chemical storage area. The advanced fire alarm system detected the smoke immediately and triggered an alarm. The sprinkler activated and also controlled the flames. In the chemical storage area, the gas based fire suppression system prevented the fire from spreading. Because of the fire safety training, workers responded well. They also used fire extinguishers to control small flames and evacuated safely. Local fire department notified instantly The local fire department was notified instantly and they arrived within just a few minutes, so as to ensure a complete containment. There were no injuries or casualties occurred and there was minimum property damage, as the fire was contained in less than five minutes. Impact of Palladium’s safety solutions The best part about Palladium’s safety solutions is that the employees felt really confident working in a safer environment. The training and drills ensured they knew how to react and agencies. By preventing a major fire the plant saved a lot of damage, legal liabilities and downtime expenses. Palladium’s solutions helped the plant meet all the required fire safety standards and avoid fines or even penalties. With a safer work environment, employees could focus on their work without the stress of fire hazards will stop. Palladium Safety Solutions secure manufacturing plant So above all, Palladium Safety Solutions are completely committed to provide the best fire safety solutions to protect businesses from devastating fire accidents. Their successful intervention at the manufacturing plant completely demonstrates the importance of advanced fire detection suppression employee training and risk assessment. By investing in fire safety, property managers can protect their employees’ assets and operations.
Round table discussion
Thermal imaging is an advantageous tool for firefighters on the frontline. As thermal cameras have become more compact and affordable, their availability has expanded, along with their usefulness. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How does thermal imaging serve the needs of firefighters and how is it changing?
New tools and technologies are emerging that augment the efforts of the fire market to prevent and fight fires. Modern firefighting is benefiting from an ongoing sea change in technological capabilities, spanning equipment, electronic components, greater connectivity and firefighter monitoring, to name just a few. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What technologies will have the greatest impact on the fire industry in 2021?
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