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Nullfire

New EPDs for Nullifire Intumescent Coatings Range

News Desk /

Nullifire, a provider of passive fire protection solutions, has recently released Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for its steel fire protection range. These EPDs cover the intumescent coatings SC802, SC803, SC804, SC901, and SC902. The development of these EPDs was a collaborative effort between Nullifire’s R&D team and Nexio in the Netherlands, highlighting the company’s commitment to environmental transparency and sustainability. Understanding EPDs An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardised document that provides detailed information about the environmental impact of a product throughout its lifecycle. EPDs are created according to the guidelines set by the International EPD system and offer a way to communicate a product’s environmental performance transparently and comparably. They include data on the extraction of raw materials, manufacturing processes, product transportation, use, and end-of-life disposal. By adhering to these standardised criteria, EPDs help manufacturers, architects, and contractors make informed decisions regarding the environmental implications of their products and projects. For more detailed information on EPDs, please visit the Environdec website. Nullifire’s EPDs for Intumescent Coatings The newly available EPDs for Nullifire Intumescent Coatings are part of the brands broader strategy to enhance the sustainability of their products. The specific products that now have EPDs are: SC802: A versatile water-based intumescent coating designed for steel structures. SC803: Another water-based option, offering robust fire protection with ease of application. SC804: A solvent-based intumescent coating, suitable for complex structures requiring high durability. SC901: A fast-track, high-performance intumescent coating that offers significant time savings on construction projects. SC902: A two-component intumescent coating known for its rapid curing properties and excellent fire protection performance. The creation of these EPDs involved a detailed life cycle assessment (LCA) conducted by Nullifire’s R&D team in partnership with Nexio. This process ensured that all aspects of the product lifecycle were considered, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, application, and eventual disposal. The resulting EPDs provide customers with comprehensive and reliable data on the environmental impact of these fire protection solutions. Future Prospects for EPDs at Nullifire: Looking ahead, Nullifire plans to continue its commitment to environmental transparency by developing an EPD for its FB750 Intubatt, a coated batt designed for sealing service penetrations in fire-rated walls and floors. This forward-thinking approach underscores Nullifire’s dedication to advancing sustainable building practices and providing stakeholders with the necessary tools to make environmentally conscious decisions. The development of these EPDs marks a significant milestone for Nullifire and sets a benchmark for future product lines. As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes sustainability, Nullifire’s proactive measures in generating EPDs reflect its leadership in the field of passive fire protection and environmental stewardship. 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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WAGNER

WAGNER at FeuerTrutz 2024

Event News /

No fire without sufficient oxygen concentration: this is a brief summary of how WAGNER’s active fire prevention works. “Just a slight change in the air composition in the room can be the decisive factor for holistic fire protection. Particularly in automated warehouses or archives, high or irretrievable values can be protected preventively in this way. But systems for fighting fires also often work with oxygen extraction,” explains Dirk Band, Head of Sales at WAGNER Group GmbH. The company will be presenting its fire protection solutions at the FeuerTrutz trade fair on June 26 and 27, 2024 in Nuremberg in Hall 4a, Stand 315. WAGNER will show its fire protection systems from a single source. “Preventing fires is of course the best way to avoid endangering people and protect processes and the environment. But even where the use of our active fire prevention is not an option, thanks to our holistic approach we always find the better fire protection solution – for every application,” says Dirk Band. “If necessary, we also carry out fire tests for this purpose.” Visitors to the company’s booth will be able to see what fire protection solutions can look like. The basis is always the earliest possible fire detection. For this purpose, WAGNER offers the highly sensitive aspirating smoke detectors of the TITANUS® family. They detect fires in the early stages. This earliest possible fire detection enables effective countermeasures to be taken as quickly as possible to protect people and property. In protection areas where people are not constantly present, such as automated storage applications like high-bay or freezer warehouses, active fire prevention with OxyReduct® prevents the development and spread of flames. This technology is certified, proven, and satisfies insurance companies. Short-term work in protected areas is permitted even under strict national regulations. For the human body, being in this protective atmosphere is comparable to being in the mountains. Therefore, it is possible for healthy people to occasionally perform necessary activities in the protected area without any concerns. If the use of OxyReduct® for active fire prevention is not possible, WAGNER supplements fire detection with the FirExting® fire extinguishing system. In the event of an alarm from a TITANUS® aspirating smoke detector, the inert gas extinguishing system can be activated directly. With this system, WAGNER offers an efficient solution for residue-free and non-destructive fire extinguishing. It fights fires effectively and at the same time offers optimum protection for property, inventory and the environment. Extinguishing damage, such as that caused by water, spray mist, foam or compounds with the burning material, is eliminated. This is because gas extinguishing removes the basis of a fire: extinguishing gases either suffocate the source of the fire by displacing the oxygen from its surroundings, or they extract the necessary heat energy from the fire. On-site operations can be resumed quickly after the fire has been extinguished. In hazardous situations, such as a fire, it is critical to maintain an overview. Only then can those involved react quickly and appropriately. Buildings and facilities benefit from integrated safety concepts that ensure maximum transparency and safety through the interaction of different systems and standardized operation. Hazard management systems such as VisuLAN® and WinGuard integrate and control security-relevant systems centrally via a comprehensive user interface. They enable a fast and coordinated response to events. At FeuerTrutz, visitors will be able to experience fire protection at first hand, with a live demonstration of the hazard management system. On the other hand, exhibits from the TITANUS® family and a FirExting® fire extinguishing system can be discovered on site. This will show how holistic fire protection works in practice and how it helps to increase safety even in critical situations. 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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ECNG

IFE launches the Early Careers Networking Group

News Desk, Product News /

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced the launch of its Early Careers Networking Group (ECNG), a new initiative designed to support budding talent in the field of fire engineering. The group aims to offer young professionals and students a comprehensive insight into the wide range of vocations available within fire engineering, encouraging interest in the sector. Hosted on LinkedIn, the IFE ECNG’s mission is to foster a supportive community where early-career individuals can thrive and find their path in fire engineering. The launch comes at a crucial time following the publication of The Science Education Tracker 2023 by Engineering UK, which raised concerns about the future workforce in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. A survey of over 7,000 young people in England revealed significant challenges and a pronounced gender gap: Only 12% of girls feel that being an engineer fits well with their identity. Just 16% of girls believe an engineering career is suitable for them. Practical science opportunities are crucial, particularly for less engaged students. Only 26% of GCSE students participate in practical work at least every fortnight. Interest in science has declined, and a gender gap has emerged, with 36% of girls stating that science is not for them. The ECNG will address these key factors as the group progresses, starting with establishing a platform where young people can explore and discuss fire engineering pathways. Dean Morris, chair of the ECNG, said: “I think everyone looks back on their life with hindsight and thought about what they would do if they had their time over again. This group will offer a platform to share these experiences and offer advice to anyone that is new to the industry or who is thinking of joining. “I really hope that it provides a safe space where people can ask questions but also network and meet like-minded people. Everyone is at different levels in their career and experience and had to start from somewhere, so creating a safe space is important for development and ensuring competency in the industry.” The group serves as an open forum for asking questions and seeking career advice, while also hosting events and soon offering mentoring opportunities. CEO of the IFE, Steve Hamm, added: “We’re delighted to welcome the Early Careers Networking Group to the IFE’s portfolio of groups. Its output will address integral issues across the fire sector, ultimately benefitting our membership, further stakeholders and shaping the future workforce. “Young people from around the globe will now have a space to collaborate and seek advice on an international scale; I believe it will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of fire engineering for budding talent. By offering a space to explore career options, we aim to bridge the gender gap and ignite a passion for fire engineering in young people within the UK and overseas.” 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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Howler

Whitepaper on Temp Change to Fire Evacuation in Flats

News Desk /

Howler, UK fire safety expert, have just released an important whitepaper, NFCC Guidance: Temporary Change to Simultaneous Evacuation in Flats. Managing Director, Gary Askew, explains ‘Following the unprecedented national tragedy at Grenfell Tower in June 2017, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) issued guidance to property managers about steps to be taken where there were concerns around cladding issues. As time went by and more information became available, the guidance was updated and refined. Our whitepaper takes a good look at that guidance examining the problem and the solutions available.’ With the news reporting on various councils up and down the country failing to meet fire safety standards, the whitepaper comes at an important time. ‘Thousands of blocks of residential flats in the UK still have a ‘stay-put’ policy in the event of fire. This simply means that residents are safely able to ‘stay-put’ in their flat in the event of a fire in another flat in the same block. This policy is only possible if the building has been designed and constructed in such a way that each flat is a separate fire compartment with fire separation being provided in accordance with the Building Regulations. ‘What occurred at Grenfell was that fire separation failed completely and there is now an awareness amongst Fire Risk Assessors that there may be times when a stay-put is not adequate, and instead a building must be immediately, or ‘simultaneously’, evacuated in the event of a fire.’ Howler’s whitepaper shares the NFCC’s guidance that recommends “The safest and most effective way of ensuring [that residents can escape safely] is by installing a suitable common fire detection and alarm system conforming to British Standard 5839 Part 1 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings – Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises (BS 5839-1).” ‘We’ve been installing fire safety solutions for over 30 years’ continues Gary, ‘and in response to the NFCC’s guidance, we’ve just launched Howler Special Services which has been designed to include the installation of radio linked Fire Alarm systems specifically to facilitate the change in the evacuation strategy of large residential buildings. The systems typically replace a Waking Watch service and can either be removed once the remedial works are complete or be upgraded to a permanent BS8629 evacuation system.’ ‘Howler is all about protecting lives and livelihoods. It’s our job to stay abreast of legislation and help councils, businesses, property managers, and landlords protect the lives and livelihoods they look after. This is why we’ve released this new whitepaper and this new service, to help prevent any further tragedies.’ 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]

Whitepaper on Temp Change to Fire Evacuation in Flats Read More »

FPA

Partnership for the FPA aims to increase UK fire testing

News Desk, Project News /

The FPA has announced a new partnership with CLM Fire Testing, part of CLM Group, with two state-of-the-art test furnaces being installed at its fire testing laboratory in Blockley. A provider of passive fire protection and fire safety solutions, CLM Fire Testing will be installing the new fire resistance test furnaces at the FPA’s long-established fire testing facility in Gloucestershire. The collaboration seeks to meet the ongoing demand for fire resistance testing in the UK, as FPA Commercial Director Chris Miles explains: “There is a significant lack of capacity across the UK for fire testing, particularly fire resistance testing, which has existed for many years and is impacted and exacerbated by drivers resulting from the Grenfell Tower fire and predicted to become further embedded on publication of the pending second phase Inquiry report.” With third-party testing a vital component for ensuring the fire resistance and safety of construction materials, in 2023, the FPA became UKAS accredited to test a range of fire resistance standards for numerous product types. The valued accreditation has enabled it to fill the gaps in the fire testing market, and as Chris adds, help support the UK construction industry with the “many demands of the tighter regulatory framework”. The partnership between the FPA and CLM Group marks a significant milestone in advancing fire safety standards and fostering innovation within the fire protection industry. The collaboration will enable CLM Group to provide its clients and supply chain with premier access to essential fire testing. In particular, the facilities will see the fire safety solutions provider offer its clients, which include some of the main contractors in the UK, quick turnaround testing of fire resistance systems. This is in line with the growing need for evidence testing of such systems for a more compliant and safer built environment, and it takes into consideration situations where some systems may require retesting during the construction of new or refurbishment of existing premises. Specifically, the two additions to the fire testing laboratory are a large-scale (3m wide x 3m high) vertical furnace and a smaller-scale (2m wide x 2m high) vertical furnace. Reaching temperatures of over 1,000°C, the furnaces can test to a range of fire resistance standards for numerous product types, including: • Building Construction Components and Materials: Fire resistance testing to BS EN 1363-1, BS EN 1363-2, and BS 476-20 • Fire Door Sets: Fire resistance testing to BS EN 1634-1 +A1 and BS 476-22 • Walls and Partitions: Fire resistance testing to BS EN 1364-1 and BS 476-22 • Glazing: Fire resistance testing to BS EN 1364-1 and BS 476-22 • Linear Joint Seals: Fire resistance testing to BS EN 1366-4 • Penetration Seals: Fire resistance testing to BS EN 1366-3 The partnership ties in with the FPA’s ongoing collaboration with UL Solutions for product certification needs, with CLM Group now providing project-based testing. Once expanded, the FPA’s facilities will include four fire resistance test furnaces to support manufacturers who require independent fire testing and product certification, and to meet the demands of the wider construction industry. Dr Gavin Dunn, FPA Managing Director said: “I’m thrilled to be moving forward with this collaboration which expands our fire resistance testing services into a new market segment and complements our existing partnership with UL Solutions. CLM’s investment in two furnaces at the FPA’s fire testing laboratory will support a new range of clients in scientifically proving and impartially checking specific construction details and systems for safety and effectiveness. “This is a crucial step in building an ecosystem within the industry that ensures the delivery of safe buildings we can all trust, and underscores our commitment to excellence and innovation in support of industry reform and regulatory compliance. I’m eagerly looking forward to working with CLM in the coming months and years.” Tom Gilbert, CLM Group CEO said: “CLM’s commitment to improving the built environment is unwavering. Our significant investment in much needed testing capacity in the UK will enable our clients to access our UKAS accredited laboratory, conveniently and without excessive lead times. “We have identified that Tier 1 contractors working in partnership with us on the largest and most complex projects in the UK require a far higher level of assurance than ever before, and our relationship with these contractors will ensure a seamless approach to accessing the highest quality testing available.” “It was important to me that our offering was impartial, and partnering with the Fire Protection Association will give clients and regulators complete assurance that the tests administered within our furnaces are appropriately conducted and conflict free. We very much look forward to working with the FPA over the coming years.” 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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Fire-Dex

Gear Up Fast with Fire-Dex

News Desk /

Fire-Dex is excited to announce a game-changing service for fire departments everywhere: The new FXR Express and FXM Express lines offering premium turnout gear shipped in just five-10 business days. FXR and FXM Express provide fire departments with a stock option for two of Fire-Dex’s most popular lines. It means that bunker gear can arrive in under two weeks when needed, ensuring firefighters have fast, reliable access to essential garments. “It’s all about keeping our emergency responders protected and ready for action,” said Lauren Burke DeVere, President of Fire-Dex. “No matter what your needs or budget, our Express line brings you industry-leading safety, comfort and convenience without the usual wait.” FXR Express FXR turnouts are renowned for their superior fit and flexibility. Certified to NFPA 1971, FXR sets a high standard for firefighter protection and is among Fire-Dex’s best-selling turnout options. With FXR Express, firefighters can access the same high-quality, premium gear they expect from FXR turnouts, shipped out in a timetable that fits busy schedules. Crafted with a TECGEN71 (gold) outer shell, Milliken® CoreCXP™ one-layer thermal liner, and Stedair® 4000 moisture barrier, this jacket and pant offer a perfect balance of safety and performance. FXM Express With Fire-Dex’s FXM turnouts, departments don’t have to choose between elite protection and saving money. Constructed with an Armor AP™ (gold) outer shell, Milliken® CoreCXP™ two-layer thermal liner, and GORE® RT7100 moisture barrier, customers can order their set today, confident it will arrive swiftly. FXM bunker gear combines modern design with exceptional functionality, helping firefighters combat whatever comes their way. FXM turnouts are certified to NFPA 1971. Don’t Wait Every second counts when fighting fires. And for departments seeking the right gear, days can make the difference. That’s why Fire-Dex developed the FXR and FXM Express lines to ensure that turnaround times for essential turnouts match customers’ urgency. Firefighters can trust that they will be equipped and ready at a moment’s notice, enhancing their ability to protect and serve their communities effectively while wearing high-quality, durable protective gear. 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]

Gear Up Fast with Fire-Dex Read More »

Fire & Safety

Fire & Safety Services Marks 60 Years of Excellence

News Desk /

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business, is proud to announce authorized dealer for New Jersey, Fire & Safety Services, proudly celebrates its 60th anniversary this June 2024. The significant milestone is marked by community-focused initiatives, underscoring the company’s ongoing evolution and dedication to supporting members of the fire service. Upcoming events and highlights include a Pierce fire apparatus 2024 Road Rally throughout the dealership’s region this summer. The first stop took place in southern New Jersey at Burlington Township Fire District No. 1, and featured Pierce pumpers, rescues, aerials and more. Future stops will be posted on Fire & Safety Services’ website and social media platforms in the upcoming weeks. Fire & Safety Services was founded in 1964 by Walter Runyon and was driven by a customer-centric philosophy. At the time, the company provided customers with 24-hour services in addition to firefighting gear and equipment. The company began representing Pierce in 1977 for the northern half of New Jersey. In 1982, Bill Russell took over and subsequently agreed to expand its operations to the rest of the state in 1984. Bill Russell grew the business by focusing on the needs of the customer, offering best-in-class service and sales, and creating a culture of development for those who worked for Fire & Safety Services. These values have led to continued growth over the years to the nearly 70 employees today. Many employees at Fire & Safety Services have been with the company for 15 years or more, including one team member who has been with the company since its inception. “As we reflect on six decades, our success is rooted in the trust of firefighters and the dedication of our incredible employees who always strive to do the right thing for our customers and their communities,” said David Russell, President of Fire & Safety Services. “We take pride in supporting our team, and I am especially proud during both the 2007 recession and COVID, we retained all employees. This commitment to our people, who we consider family, has been key to our success and ability to adapt and grow with market conditions and customer needs.” An example of the company’s evolution includes the 2024 Road Rally; leading a new wave of customer engagement through micro-experiences across the state, moving away from traditional static apparatus shows to a more customer-centric interactive event. Russell added, “The decision to conduct a 2024 Road Rally aligns with our mission to focus on our customers’ specific needs, ensuring we deliver the most relevant and effective solutions.” Fire & Safety Services also strives to give back to the members of the fire service by being proud supporters of organizations like the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, the Burn Foundation, or through sponsoring educational programs. “We are very proud of our 60 years,” says Russell, “as it is the foundation for our development for the years to come.  As the emergency vehicle market continues to change, and we grow across our various segments – we will do whatever is needed to continue to meet those needs; whether through training, fleet enhancements or continued growth of our physical footprint as the situation requires.” The company will continue to celebrate its milestone anniversary throughout the year, including a picnic in mid-June, welcoming both current and past employees. This event not only honors the company’s past but also looks forward to an exciting future. 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]

Fire & Safety Services Marks 60 Years of Excellence Read More »

Reacton

The Importance of Airport Fire Suppression for Ground Support Equipment

News Desk /

Airport fire safety has reached unprecedented levels of effectiveness, with rare occurrences of fire incidents involving both aircraft and ground support equipment (GSE). However, despite stringent mitigation strategies, the potential for significant disruption remains, especially if a fault were to occur due to damage to GSE fuel lines, hydraulic hoses, or overheating. Most of us have seen first-hand or at least on the television the army of support teams on their GSE equipment who move in on the aircraft upon arriving at the gate. With tight turnaround times and departure slots to be met, it’s vitally important that all aspects of these airplane logistics go as smoothly and quickly as possible, from baggage handling to re-fueling, tugs and catering trucks. With all this going on at any one time, accidents can and do happen. Even with some of the most stringent of operational safety standards in place, ‘events’ do occur, caused by any number of reasons from human error through to mechanical/electrical failure and genuine accidents. If a hydraulic hose were to fail unexpectedly you could have a fire burning in a matter of seconds, that has to be firstly noticed then brought under control by members of the team! In the best case scenario, they put the fire out; but in the worst case, the fire takes hold, spreading to other assets such as the aircraft or even the airbridge, eventually putting humans at risk. The costs of such an event can run from a few thousands of £s through to multi-million £ claims, leading to minor business disruption through to complete closure. By addressing the specific risks associated with GSE operational risks, airports can significantly enhance their overall safety and operations. Is there even a need to take the risk that a minor fire, which could be suppressed, is left to burn? The answer is no, not with state-of-the-art automatic fire suppression systems being readily available, tested and approved from partners like Reacton. Reacton’s Dual-Agent fire suppression system, designed for enhanced efficiency and compactness, combines Dry Powder and Wet Chemical agents. This innovative approach allows for rapid flame knockdown and cooling, significantly reducing system size by 40% compared to Wet Chemical-only systems. Ideal for off-road vehicles and airport Ground Support Equipment (GSE), the system offers a dual-action fire suppression method that quickly controls and prevents re-ignition of fires, providing a safe, space-saving, and economical solution for complex fire suppression needs in airport operations. Commitment to Environmental Sustainability Reflecting a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, Reacton utilizes organic, biodegradable extinguishing agents, minimizing the ecological impact of fire suppression activities. The selection of BC Dry Powder and Fluorine-Free Wet Chemicals exemplifies Reacton’s dedication to offering solutions that are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. 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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Interschutz

INTERSCHUTZ with four Focus Topics

Event News /

Halftime in the run-up to the next INTERSCHUTZ (1 to 6 June 2026 in Hannover): the next edition of the world’s leading trade fair for the fire and rescue services, civil protection, safety and security opens its doors in two years. The focus topics have already been finalized. Alongside the impacts of climate change and a turning point in civil protection, the spotlight will also be on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in control centers, situation centers and at the scene of operations, as well as on sustainability. “The dramatic events around the world make it clear that the issues of disaster prevention and civil protection are playing an increasingly important role,” says INTERSCHUTZ Project Manager Bernd Heinold of Deutsche Messe in Hannover. “This was already evident at INTERSCHUTZ two years ago, but new conflicts, crises and disasters, too, must serve as reminders that there can be no taking breaks on the way to ensuring even greater resilience.” The challenges ahead are therefore aptly summarized by the INTERSCHUTZ 2026 motto “Safeguarding Tomorrow”. Impacts of climate change In Heinold’s view, the efficiency of preventive and reactive measures can only be boosted through intensive research, technological innovations, and across-the-board collaboration. Only by these means can we respond, for example, to the impacts of climate change with its flood disasters, forest fires and storms. “The emergency services need to gear themselves up for the escalating frequency of heavy rain events, vegetation fires and added health risks from heatwaves, air pollution and the spread of diseases,” Heinold continues. This underscores the necessity for ever improving networking that transcends responsibilities and borders. INTERSCHUTZ offers the ideal opportunity for establishing and maintaining such contacts. Turning point in civil protection “Dynamic and innovative solutions are also in demand in the sphere of civil protection,” Heinold continues. “To this end, the exhibitors at INTERSCHUTZ will be showcasing their concepts and technologies for integrated and collaborative crisis management.” He adds that being well informed is pivotal for the population to be well prepared for emergencies – and that is a crucial responsibility for the relevant authorities and associations. They must raise awareness of potential risks and encourage the use of self-help practices. Artificial Intelligence In the future, however, the focus topic of “AI” will be of particularly crucial importance. “At the next INTERSCHUTZ, leading representatives from research and industry will show how intelligent technologies and artificial intelligence can be used to make emergency deployments more efficient – and where the limits lie,” emphasizes the INTERSCHUTZ Project Manager. As a promising example, he cites the utilization of appropriate AI techniques to transcribe emergency calls in various languages. This facilitates the prompt initiation and organization of aid, regardless of whether the callers are fluent in the national language. Sustainability Bernd Heinold reminds us that the topic of sustainability ought not to be forgotten amidst all this. Sustainability is of vital importance from both ecological and economic standpoints. “This ranges from alternative drives to durable and adaptable equipment right through to securing available, well-trained personnel. Just one example: sustainable procurement guidelines can help incentivize the use of environmentally friendly vehicles,” he emphasizes. To read the full article, 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]

INTERSCHUTZ with four Focus Topics Read More »

Paris Fire Brigade

PPE: Tradition, innovation and regulation

Exclusives /

Rebecca Spayne of Fire Buyer analyses the regional differences in firefighter PPE, this feature highlights innovations, traditions, and regulations shaping protective gear worldwide  Firefighting is a profession that demands utmost courage and resilience, exposing individuals to extreme hazards as they battle to save lives and property. The personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by firefighters is not just a uniform; it is a life-saving ensemble designed to protect against heat, flames, falling debris, and hazardous environments. However, the design and composition of this crucial gear vary significantly across different regions, shaped by diverse environmental conditions, historical traditions, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements.  In different parts of the world, the gear that firefighters rely on—from helmets and turnout gear to boots—is tailored to meet the specific demands of their operational environments. For instance, the robust and traditional leather helmets seen in the United States reflect a design that prioritises maximum protection against impacts and high temperatures commonly encountered in urban firefighting. In contrast, the sleek, lightweight helmets favoured in Europe, often equipped with integrated face shields, emphasise mobility and ergonomics to adapt to varied firefighting scenarios, including wildland fires.  The materials used in turnout gear and boots also differ, with American manufacturers like Fire-Dex and DuPont favouring heavy-duty, heat-resistant fabrics such as PBI and Nomex, while European brands like FlamePro and Hainsworth focus on breathable, flexible materials that do not compromise on safety. These differences are also reflected in the regulatory standards governing firefighter PPE, with the NFPA setting rigorous standards in the United States and the CEN providing tailored guidelines across Europe.  This feature delves into the intricate variations in firefighter PPE across different regions, examining the innovations and traditions that influence its design and application. By understanding these differences, we gain insight into the unique challenges faced by firefighters worldwide and the ongoing efforts to enhance their safety and performance.  Helmets: Tradition Meets Innovation  Firefighter helmets are among the most iconic pieces of PPE, symbolising the bravery and resilience of those who wear them. Their design and functionality vary widely across regions, reflecting both traditional practices and modern innovations tailored to specific operational needs and environments.  In the United States, firefighter helmets are known for their robust construction and adherence to traditional designs. Manufacturers like MSA produce helmets that often feature wide brims, offering extensive protection against falling debris and extreme heat. These helmets are typically made from durable materials, including leather and advanced composites, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of intense firefighting conditions. The wide brim not only provides added protection but also helps to shield firefighters from the elements and debris, a crucial feature in urban firefighting scenarios.  In contrast, European helmets, such as those produced by Pacific Helmets, are designed with a focus on lightweight materials and integrated safety features. These helmets often incorporate face shields, providing comprehensive facial protection without the need for separate equipment. The design emphasises mobility and comfort, crucial for firefighters who may need to navigate confined spaces or respond to diverse fire incidents, including wildfires and urban fires. The ergonomic features of these helmets help reduce fatigue during extended operations, enhancing overall performance and safety… To read the full article, 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]

PPE: Tradition, innovation and regulation Read More »

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