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ASFP

ASFP announces 2024 PFP Awards finalists

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The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced the shortlist for its 2024 Passive Fire Protection (PFP) Awards, with the winners due to be revealed at the Association’s spectacular Passive Fire Protection Awards Dinner at the Athena Hotel in Leicester on 28 November. Selected by an independent judging panel comprising fire industry leaders, this year’s finalists include: Best Large Scale Installation/Project of the Year: CLM Fireproofing: Delivery of unparalleled safety standards and compliant fire protection installations at 40 Leadenhall Street, a 37-storey development in London offering a diverse range of commercial spaces Golden Thread Fire Delay: Design and installation of passive fire protection systems at Canada Water Plot A01, a 35-story building in London combining commercial and residential spaces LDD Construction: Installation of passive fire protection systems at Powergate, a 96MW Hyperscale Data Centre campus in North Acton, London. Best Small Scale Installation/Project of the Year: The Encon Group: Supply of Promat Promatect 250 fire protection boards for a 3,116m2 mezzanine floor at the Global Sports Team Headquarters in Milton Keynes Novus Property Solutions: Working with Platform Housing Group since 2018 to deliver approximately £3.5m of passive fire protection works each year. Ventro Fire Compliance: Door installation programme at Pennard Court, a 35-unit mixed/assisted living scheme operated by LiveWest Bath Passive Fire Innovation of the Year (Project): ARC Building Solutions: TCB Square a unique cavity fire barrier developed to tackle cavity barrier specification around pipe penetrations in timber frame constructions. Knauf Insulation: Rocksilk® RainScreen FFCB, an innovative cavity barrier made from rock mineral wool, that is designed to be face-fixed to Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab as the masonry façade is constructed Tremco: The Nullifire FZ100 Fire Safe Zone fire compartment reinstatement solution for penetrating services within off-site/modular construction. Passive Fire Innovation of the Year (Digital): CLM Fireproofing: BIM Plugin which uses 3D-models to capture, explore, and maintain consistent/coordinated planning, design, construction, operational and technical data to develop passive fire strategies for buildings and assets. Checkmate Fire Solutions: The CheckMyFireDoor app, a self-help fire door inspection application which aims to encourage fire door inspection regimes which meet the requirements for High Risk Buildings (HRB) under the Building Safety Act Hempel UK: HEET Dynamic (Hempel Engineering & Estimation Technology), an advanced PFP estimation software solution developed to speed up calculations for intumescent coatings applications on steel sections, while maintaining industry standards. Other award finalists include: Training & Development of the Year: Global HSE Solutions; Checkmate Fire Solutions Best Customer Service of the Year: Novus Property Solutions; Nullifire (Tremco/CPG); United Kingdom Testing & Certification Marketing Campaign of the Year: FSi/Promat; TBA Firefly Individual Rising Star of the Year: Robert Grant (United Kingdom Testing & Certification); Jack Colloff (TBA Firefly); Chelsea Campbell (The Encon Group) Honouring exceptional accomplishments within the passive fire protection industry, the Awards Dinner will serve as the perfect end-of-year send-off for ASFP members and guests. The evening will begin with a delicious canapé reception and three-course seated dinner, followed by a dazzling stage show featuring aerial acrobatics and professional dance troops. There will be fairground attractions, an after-dinner disco and comedy from a recognised name in entertainment. To cap it all off, attendees will also be offered a midnight breakfast. To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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NEWT

Network for Emergency Wildfire Tactics (NEWT)

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NEWT is an excited team of five engineering students from California, Thailand, and Spain, all communities heavily affected by wildfires. Growing up we have been exposed to harmful pollution from fires– some of us developing asthma– and have known people who lost homes to fire. We came together while at the European Innovation Academy and formed our company with the following ideal: fires are inevitable, but an uncontrollable wildfire should never occur. After talking to many firefighters, commanders, and chiefs throughout the United States and Europe we found an opportunity to improve upon wildland communication tactics. As communication is improved, response will be administered with greater speed and precision, maximizing control over wildland fires and minimizing the damage to lives, habitats, and property. Our mission is to dramatically reduce wildfire disasters and prevent rapid spread by resolving issues of location tracking and communication failures. In 2020, 4,300,300 acres burned solely in California. 33 people died and 11,116 structures were destroyed. These numbers are still too high and reflect both the ever increasing severity of wildfire and demand for innovation in firefighting practices. The US forest service cites persistent information gaps as a leading cause for out of control. Wildfire response primarily relies on handheld radios for communication and coordination. Verbal communication is limited in both clarity and speed; it is simply inadequate to coordinate the hundreds or even thousands of firefighters needed to contain a wildfire. Even the most trained and prepared fire departments sometimes lose information and orders as it is relayed from command to the operators. To address this issue we formed NEWT, which stands for Network for Emergency Wildfire Tactics. At NEWT we seamlessly integrate modern technology into firefighter communication through a shared and real time platform for the whole response team. This includes: Precise Location Tracking: Ensuring every firefighter knows where they are and where their teammates are, preventing disorientation and improving strategic movements. GIS Elements: Integrating live view of fire lines, fire breaks, back burn strategy, resource locations, and maintenance locations to provide a comprehensive view of the situation. Satellite Connectivity: Guaranteeing fast and reliable communication even in the most remote areas where traditional radio signals fail. External Data Integration: Incorporating wind patterns, air quality information, supplies/maintenance requests with status updates, UAV streaming capabilities, and status updates to enhance the decision-making processes for commanders. Unlike other coordination technology, we have built this system specifically for wildland firefighters making it as simple, robust, reliable, and as useful as possible for first responders. NEWT is offered as a software link between commanders and firefighters implemented as an app or through our own modified satellite communicator. We plan to launch a pilot program next year in Southern Europe using modified consumer satellite communicators. This program will help us connect with more firefighters and aid in our research and development of a purpose built communicator for wildland firefighters and commanders. Our technology aims to revolutionize wildfire management and lead to faster containment of wildfires, reducing the damage to life and property. In the future we hope to expand this technology beyond wildfires into aiding in urban firefighting, search and rescue operations, and more. Wildfires are evolving, increasing in frequency and severity. Now is the time to look towards new innovations so that we can remain effective in our response. Our team at NEWT is committed to making a positive impact, demonstrating the power of innovative thinking in solving the wildfire problem.

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CALFire

Californian Wildfires continue to Ravage the State

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The State of California is grappling with one of the most destructive wildfire seasons in its history, as fires continue to spread across vast areas, leaving devastation in their wake. The Park Fire, which ignited on July 24, 2024, has already scorched 391,200 acres, primarily affecting Butte, Plumas, Shasta, and Tehama counties. As of today, the blaze is only 18% contained, posing a significant challenge to firefighting efforts. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) reports a staggering 4,665 wildfires since the start of the year, with 763,425 acres burned across the state. The Park Fire alone has destroyed 559 structures and damaged 96 more, displacing thousands of residents and leading to one civilian fatality. The fire has necessitated a massive mobilization of resources, including 5,953 personnel, 41 helicopters, 508 engines, 180 bulldozers, 127 water tenders, 117 crews, and 86 other support units. Emergency Response California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency, allowing for the rapid deployment of additional resources and support to affected areas. “Our thoughts are with those affected by these devastating fires,” said Governor Newsom. “We are deploying every available resource to protect lives and property.” CAL FIRE Chief Thom Porter emphasized the importance of prescribed burns and other preventative measures in a statement. “The intensity of this year’s fire season underscores the critical need for prescribed burns and forest management,” he said. “These practices are essential in reducing the fuel load in our forests and preventing such catastrophic fires.” Community Impact The wildfires have forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in shelters and with relatives. Local communities have rallied to support those displaced, providing food, clothing, and other essential supplies. However, the scale of the disaster has overwhelmed many local resources, prompting calls for additional federal assistance. “Our community is strong, but we are facing an unprecedented challenge,” said Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea. “We are grateful for the support we have received, but we need more help to get through this.” Firefighting Efforts Firefighters from across the state and neighboring regions have converged on the affected areas, working tirelessly to contain the blazes. Despite their efforts, the combination of high temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds has made firefighting operations particularly difficult. “The conditions we are facing are some of the most challenging in recent memory,” said a CAL FIRE spokesperson. “We are doing everything in our power to protect lives and property, but we urge residents to heed evacuation orders and stay safe.” Public Safety Information Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to all evacuation orders. Updates on the Park Fire and other wildfires can be found on the CAL FIRE website (www.fire.ca.gov) and through local news outlets. To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

Californian Wildfires continue to Ravage the State Read More »

Johnson Sontrols

Johnson Controls Enhances Efficiency and Sustainability of Eight Paris Olympic Venues

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As the Paris Olympics 2024 is underway, millions of fans have, and will continue to travel to the French capital city to attend one of the world’s largest sporting events. Thanks to the latest technology from Johnson Controls, they will enjoy a more comfortable experience at some of the smartest and most energy-efficient stadiums on the continent. By integrating advanced building automation systems, HVAC and fire suppression technologies across eight venues, the company not only is helping the International Olympic Committee prioritize safety and operational efficiency but also is contributing to the Committee’s ambitious goal of reducing the event’s carbon footprint by 50% compared to previous Games. Achieving this goal required making the building infrastructure behind the games’ venues more energy efficient and sustainable. For example, two of the latest innovations of Johnson Controls’ York 3.3 MW industrial chillers are in operation at the new cooling production plant, the La Chapelle plant, located in the Adidas Arena sports and cultural complex. As the twelfth power plant in the city of Paris’ cooling network, it meets the cooling needs of the Adidas Arena and the surrounding area. This equipment provides sustainable and energy-efficient cooling at one of the flagship sites of the Olympic Games. “With temperatures rising year on year and heatwaves becoming the norm, the need for sustainable cooling technology is critical to ensure optimal conditions in venues while minimizing the impact on the planet,” said Marc Vandiepenbeeck, CFO and EMEALA President for Johnson Controls. “Chillers are one of the most energy-consuming pieces of equipment in a building and represent an important opportunity to cut energy use and cost, while minimizing carbon footprint and delivering a healthier indoor environment.” A further example is a renowned tennis stadium where the Johnson Controls Metasys building automation system links the most vital building equipment including HVAC, lighting control and energy management. The system controls and monitors performance and provides real-time data so facility managers can identify potential issues, make adjustments and ensure the stadium is running as efficiently and sustainably as possible. “We are proud to work with these prestigious venues and help our customers achieve their desired outcomes in energy efficiency, carbon reduction emissions, safety, security and building management. Our expertise in smart stadiums and large venues has made Johnson Controls the partner of choice for stadiums across the world and we continue to innovate in this space to further elevate the fan experience,” continued Vandiepenbeeck. Johnson Controls drives fan engagement, operational efficiency and sustainability with innovative building technology at sports and entertainment venues across the globe. The company provides smart buildings solutions to Intaleq in Doha, Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, O2 Arena in London,  Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas,  Chase Center in San Francisco, Borussia Dortmund at SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, and more. It offers its full range of technologies for this sector including its OpenBlue digital platform, building automation system, HVAC, fire detection and suppression. To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Skills for Security

Online Training Platform: Skills On-Demand

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Skills for Security is thrilled to announce the launch of its new online learning platform, Skills On-Demand for security and fire sectors. This groundbreaking platform is designed to deliver comprehensive, on-demand educational resources to professionals operating in the sector. Skills On-Demand features a range of training courses across various Fire and Security disciplines, and with new content added monthly, users will have instant access to the latest industry knowledge and best practices. Darrell Gilmour, Director of Technical Training at Skills for Security, shared his enthusiasm about the launch: “The platform is a first for the sector and follows a significant period of research and development in collaboration with our employers and sponsors. We’re confident Skills On-Demand will provide the perfect way for users to stay at the forefront of sector developments, helping to raise standards and professionalism.” David Scott, Managing Director at Skills for Security, further added: “We’re all extremely excited and proud to launch Skills On-Demand. We truly believe that the platform will help so many working in the sector, while also complementing our apprenticeship offering perfectly. I’d encourage anyone responsible for managing teams – or individuals looking to self-develop – to check out Skills On-Demand.” For more information about Skills On-Demand and to explore the new platform, visit: www.skills4security.com/skillsondemand. To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Wildfire

Wildfire Boots are Now Essential for All Firefighters

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Wildfire expert Andy Elliot and HAIX footwear call for a change in the kit issued to firefighters to protect their health and comfort as wildfires continue to take up a huge amount of firefighter time in England. England isn’t typically known for its hot and dry summers unlike other parts of the world; however, the country experiences an average of 30,000 wildfires annually, which is three times the number in Greece and four times that of Canada. Although Canadian and Greek wildfires typically burn more hectares and cause greater devastation, the persistent and growing problem of wildfires in England is undeniable. Trends over the past decade show fluctuations, but the overall increase in wildfire incidents highlights that it is now crucial that firefighters are equipped with the appropriate wildfire footwear to enable day-to-day use as well as fight wildfires when they arise. The Growing Wildfire Problem The key trend of concern to Fire and Rescue Services is the increase in both size and intensity of wildfires, this is directly linked to more typical dry air ‘wildfire weather’. These extreme wildfire weather events are increasing in frequency and set to get worse due to climate change, which is something already showing in Europe over the last few decades. Over the past 12 years, around 79,000 hectares of land has been burnt by wildfires in England and fire and rescue services in England have been increasingly burdened by wildfires. From 2009-10 to 2020-21, there were over 360,000 wildfire incidents, burning more than 79,000 hectares of land and consuming nearly 540,000 hours of firefighting time. Peak years such as 2011-12, had around 47,000 incidents, and the most devastating year, 2018-19, which saw over 26,000 hectares burnt, illustrates the significant impact wildfires are having. Changing Times Call for Changing Footwear Traditionally, firefighters have relied on a combination of wellington boots and structural boots, however, neither of these are ideal for combating wildfires. Structural boots, designed for urban firefighting, offer excellent protection against heat and sharp objects but are often too heavy and cumbersome for the varied terrains encountered in wildfires. Wellington boots, while lighter, do not provide the necessary protection or support for prolonged and arduous wildfire conditions. The current issued footwear fails to meet the demands of wildfire situations where firefighters cover long distances and endure extended hours. This leads to severe discomfort, blisters, and more painful outcomes like the loss of toenails, compromising the effectiveness and safety of firefighters during life-saving wildfire operations. Firefighters need to be issued footwear that is comfortable for both tasks, structural firefighting for short duration use and long-use wildfire incidents. There are boots on the market that do both. Conclusion Specialist wildfire designed PPE is becoming a necessity to protect the health of firefighters. The traditional approach to firefighting footwear is no longer sufficient and firefighters should now be equipped with structural boots as well as more lightweight boots that provide added comfort and protection for extended use. Modern solutions like the Special Fighter Pro and Fire Eagle 2 boots offer the versatility, protection, and comfort required to tackle both structural and wildfire incidents effectively. As the wildfire landscape continues to evolve, so too must the approach to firefighter safety and equipment. To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

Wildfire Boots are Now Essential for All Firefighters Read More »

Fire-Dex

Fire-Dex’s New RescuePro Package

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Fire-Dex is excited to announce the launch of the RescuePro Package, a bundle designed to provide the right gear for non-structural calls. Combining three of Fire-Dex’s best-selling alternative PPE products, the RescuePro Package offers significant benefits in terms of safety, comfort, and cost savings. The RescuePro Package includes: TECGEN51 Fatigues An incredibly lightweight, single-layer garment designed to reduce heat stress, fatigue and the spread of potentially harmful carcinogens. The Deluxe model featured in the RescuePro Package includes additional reinforcement. Dex-Rescue Gloves Extrication gloves that offer superior cut, abrasion and puncture resistance to meet the demands of rigorous emergency work. FDXL90 Boots These boots provide best-in-class breathability and flexibility during non-fire emergencies. They are 30% lighter than most structural boots and offer exceptional cut and puncture resistance. By bundling these essential garments, Fire-Dex is offering up to a 30% discount per firefighter. This not only makes it more affordable to equip personnel with the right gear but also ensures that departments can maximize their budgets while maintaining high safety standards. The Right Fit for Non-Structural Calls Fire-Dex recognizes that firefighting has evolved significantly over the years. Since 1980, fire calls have decreased by 54%, while all other emergency calls have increased by 500%. With the RescuePro Package, firefighters now have access to NFPA 1951-certified alternative PPE that is specifically designed for the varied and demanding nature of their work. This bundle is perfect for a wide range of scenarios, including flash fires, natural disasters, search and rescue operations, confined space rescues, gas leaks, civilian assistance, rope rescues, electrical emergencies and motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). Why Alternative PPE Matters Fire-Dex emphasizes the importance of alternative PPE in modern firefighting. The RescuePro Package is designed to address critical issues such as cardiac stress, wear and tear on gear, as well as the potential spread of carcinogens. According to the NFPA, cardiac stress is the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) among firefighters. By offering lighter and more breathable PPE for non-fire calls, the RescuePro Package significantly reduces the risk of heat exhaustion. Additionally, using alternative PPE helps extend the lifespan of structural gear, as heavy turnouts can wear out with repeated use. Alternative PPE also aids in containing the spread of carcinogens commonly found in bunker gear during active service. “Our mission is to continually innovate and provide solutions that enhance firefighter safety and efficiency, and the RescuePro Package is a testament to this commitment,” said Lauren Burke DeVere, President of Fire-Dex. “It offers a versatile, lightweight, more breathable alternative to traditional turnout gear, ultimately contributing to more effective emergency responses.” Experience the Fire-Dex Difference Experience the difference that the RescuePro Package can make on your next call and join Fire-Dex in enhancing firefighter safety while your department saves money. For more info and to explore the company’s full range of gear bundles, visit firedex.com. To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Sensitron

SMART 3G D2 – Gas detector for all applications

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Sensitron presents the gas detector applicable for all environments, the SMART 3G D2, capable of detecting gases such as Methane, LPG, Butane, Carbon Monoxide or Ammonia  Designed for use in all applications, the SMART 3G D2 features a bright 4-digit display that allows real-time visualisation of the detected gas concentration and a high-brightness LED ring to signal the 3 status levels. Suitable for use in classified and unclassified areas, it is certified ATEX II 2G Ex db IIC T5 Gb and ATEX II 2G Ex db [ib] IIC T6 Gb for intrinsically safe detectors, and through Hall effect sensors, non-intrusive field calibration can be carried out, operating on the detector through special magnets without having to open or de-escalate the area. SMART 3G D2 can be used to detect flammable substances such as Methane, LPG or Butane; toxic gases such as Carbon Monoxide and Ammonia; refrigerant gases or oxygen. Power supply 12-24 Vdc on the board, standard mounts a 4-20mA analog output, via optional boards an RS485 output and 3 relays can be added. Certified SIL2 hardware and SIL3 software, the housing is made of die-cast aluminum, but can be supplied with stainless steel housing upon request. The head of the detector, where the sensor is housed, is made of stainless steel and is equipped with a synthesised filter that allows gas to enter by diffusion but maintains the protective mode of the housing. It can mount infrared, catalytic, PID, and electrochemical cell technology sensors, depending on the type of gas to be detected, the application environment, and the necessary specifications. The SMART 3G D2 gas detector is also available as a version without a display (SMART 3G C2) and without a display but with the LED ring (SMART 3G C2-LD).  SMART 3G D2 – An example of application  Several gas-related hazards arise inside the many processes in the pharmaceutical industry, making the use of gas detection systems mandatory.   Risks may include:  explosions caused by flammable substances  high toxicity from solvents and APIs  risks associated with oxygen deficiency  Highly sensitive sensors enable timely and accurate detection of a wide range of potentially hazardous gases, ensuring a safe working environment for employees and compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, within the production department, they allow monitoring for toxic, flammable or volatile gases that are not only a source of danger but could also compromise product quality. Even in laboratories and white rooms, gas detection helps keep the environment controlled, avoiding contamination and hazards. They are also used to monitor storage areas, detecting any gas leaks or unfavorable environmental conditions that could affect product quality or worker safety.  To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

SMART 3G D2 – Gas detector for all applications Read More »

Drager

Dräger enhances Engineered Solutions capabilities

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The Engineered Solutions division of Dräger, an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology, has opened its Flame Engulfment Testing Cabin to provide an in-house facility for testing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). It is designed to test well beyond existing standards and guarantee the very highest levels of safety.   Based at Dräger’s Centre of Excellence manufacturing facility in Blyth, the Flame Engulfment Testing Cabin will provide the company with extensive research, design and development capabilities, and eliminate any of the time and resource challenges associated with third party testing. The Flame Engulfment Cabin makes it possible to thoroughly test and trial all of the components and materials used to make Dräger’s SCBA product portfolio to ensure they can withstand extreme heat, flames or impact – e.g. after being dropped from a great height.   The facility provides Dräger with best-in-class design maturity and approvals testing, with customers reassured that Dräger’s SCBA exceeds safety standards and will protect firefighters in a wide range of challenging environments.   This opening further bolsters Dräger’s Engineered Solutions offering. It demonstrates the division’s capabilities in designing bespoke solutions that support the manufacture of personal protective, and respiratory protective equipment (PPE and RPE), protecting fire and rescue teams as well as emergency responders working in industry, utilities, oil, gas and chemical sectors. It adds to the Engineered Solutions divisional portfolio that includes scenario-based training systems and simulations, including Dräger’s CFS 7000 gas-powered passenger vehicle simulator, wood, gas and liquid gas (LPG) fired Fire Training Systems and the wildfire training facility, Wildland-Fire Sandbox WFS 1000, to name just a few.   Philipp Hecker, Head of Portfolio and Solutions at Dräger, says the Flame Engulfment Cabin raises the bar for testing SCBA: “This facility is testament to Dräger’s success in achieving technological sophistication and quality in design. Not only can we now test and develop products ourselves, but we can also help the industry improve too.”  Tom Pearson, Marketing Manager Engineered Solutions and Government Agencies at Draeger Safety UK, adds that opening the testing facilities supports Dräger’s continued prioritisation of the health and safety of firefighters through technological development and innovation: “The Flame Engulfment Cabin enables us to further prioritise developing products and safety solutions that advance the health, safety and wellbeing of all that use them. Dräger’s philosophy has always been to create Technology for Life, and this opening helps us realise our ambitions.”  To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Taktis

Check in for improved alarm management with Taktis

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Derrick Hall, Director of Sales and Marketing, Kentec Electronics talks about the benefits of reliable and efficient alarm management with the Kentec Taktis  Taktis is Kentec’s most powerful and sophisticated analogue addressable fire alarm control panel. The latest version boasts several innovative new features including increased functionality for hotels and similar accommodation-based businesses such as student accommodation and sheltered housing.  These buildings have unique requirements when it comes to life safety, as they are busy environments that have a high density of people located over different areas.   Although fire detection systems are crucial for occupant safety, the occurrence of false alarms poses a significant challenge, leading to unwanted disruption. In the case of hotels, false alarms pose potential inconvenience for guests and hotel staff. Those who have had to evacuate a hotel in the middle of the night will understand the negative impact such an event has on customer satisfaction.   Cases where large numbers of false alarms are experienced also creates an environment of disbelief and complacency, which may cause people to delay acting when a real fire occurs. This combination can prove to be deadly.  BS 5839 defines a false alarm as a fire signal resulting from causes other than fire, and the activities of guests and residents contribute significantly to the creation of false alarms with aerosol sprays, cleaning fluids, candles, tobacco smoke and even burnt toast all common triggers. Steam particles from hot showers can cause the light particles in a detector to deflect in a similar way to smoke and, therefore, signal a fire condition.   Addressing this issue is essential to ensure the effectiveness of a fire detection system, while maintaining a seamless guest experience. It is a subject that Kentec has addressed in its pioneering Taktis fire alarm control panel. Ease of use and intuitive operation are cornerstones of Taktis, and it is designed to provide advanced and reliable fire detection and notification capabilities. It uses advanced detection technologies to swiftly identify and respond to potential fire incidents, while differentiating between false and genuine alarm situations.  The latest version of Taktis boasts a ‘hotel mode’ feature that helps hoteliers and managers of sheltered accommodation and student accommodation to further minimise disruption. Now if a detection device activates, only the sounder in the room concerned will initially operate, while Taktis notifies where the event has taken place. A predetermined period of time gives a designated competent person an opportunity to investigate and, if the activity causing the detector activation stops within that timeframe, the sounder will return to standby and Taktis will clear. In the case of a false alarm, this stops other alarms resonating through the building and initiating a full-scale evacuation. However, in the case of a genuine alarm, there will be an automatic escalation.  Another means of managing alarms is provided by the ability to set Taktis to ‘day’ or ‘night’ modes, with different alarm parameters for each setting. This allows for varying sensitivity levels and multiple conditions to be met before an alarm is triggered, and so better reflects the different purposes that buildings are put to during various times of the day. For example, pyrotechnics in a stadium or theatre during performances might be permitted under a more forgiving ‘day’ mode but would trigger an alarm in the usual way under a separate night setting.  Balancing the need for a robust and reliable fire detection system with the prevention of false alarms is crucial for maintaining a safe and uninterrupted guest and resident experience.  With a strong likelihood of greater penalties for not addressing this issue in the future, it is vital to use a fire alarm control panel of the highest quality.   For further information please visit https://kentec.co.uk/taktis/#connect_section or contact [email protected]  To read more articles, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]  

Check in for improved alarm management with Taktis Read More »

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