100 fire-fighters on the scene Fire crews have been battling a serious blaze which broke out overnight in a warehouse in north-west London. More than 100 firefighters were sent to tackle the blaze at an industrial unit on Western Road in Park Royal. London Fire Brigade said the ground floor and first floor were alight and a large section of the roof was also on fire. The brigade was called at 00:29 BST on Thursday. The cause of the fire is not yet known. Station Manager Bill Dunn, who is at the scene, said: "The fire is causing a lot of smoke in the Park Royal area and locals should shut windows and doors." An eyewitness who lives near the scene of the blaze said visibility was down to zero. "I was woken up by the smoke. My windows were open. I could hear sirens," he said. "It looked completely foggy outside." He said the area, close to a petrol station, had been cordoned off. Mr Dunn said the fire was likely to be a "protracted incident" and would probably cause rush-hour disruption. The public has been warned to avoid the area. Fifteen fire engines went to the scene from Willesden, Acton, Park Royal, Wembley, Chiswick, Hammersmith, Paddington, and Northholt.

Maintenance-free gas detection Honeywell, which pioneered the maintenance-free single-gas detector for the oil and gas industry, today announced the launch in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) of the BW Clip, a new portable gas detector that makes gas detection easier, safer, more cost-effective and reliable. The BW Clip features a hibernation mode that extends service life for up to a year, an automated self-test to improve safety, and Honeywell’s exclusive SureCell™ and Reflex™ technology to ensure the gas sensor’s responsiveness and longevity, even in the harshest temperatures. The BW Clip comes in two-year versions for hydrogen sulphide, carbon monoxide, oxygen or sulphur dioxide and three-year versions for hydrogen sulphide or carbon monoxide. The maintenance-free single-gas detector runs continuously, with no need for calibration, sensor replacement, battery replacement or battery charging. “With the BW Clip, we’ve included everything that customers love about the user-friendly GasAlertClip Extreme and added new features that make gas detection easier, safer, more cost-effective and more reliable,” said Andrew Thompson, Vice President and General Manager for Honeywell Analytics EMEA. “The new user-friendly hibernation mode for the BW Clip can extend its service life when workers are away for extended periods of time and not using the detector,” he said. “And thanks to the BW Clip’s automated self-test and Honeywell’s proprietary sensor technologies, companies can be confident that the detector is always monitoring for toxic gases and alerting workers to danger.” The BW Clip is compatible with the BW Technologies MicroDock II for automated bump testing and events download. However, companies can get even more value from the BW Clip by using it with Honeywell’s all-new IntelliDoX instrument management system, available starting today. IntelliDoX combines smart docking modules with Honeywell’s Fleet Manager II software to provide automated testing and record-keeping for the BW Clip. The system enables companies to configure the BW Clip to fit the needs of their operation — with a level of customisation not usually available in the maintenance-free detectors. To improve safety and compliance, companies can use IntelliDoX to: · Change the high- and low-alarm set points and other factory settings on the BW Clip, prior to or even after activating the detector; · Set a non-compliance indicator, which flashes red when a bump test is due or after a gas exposure; · Set other options such as a clock on the BW Clip, enabling safety managers to determine the precise time of a gas event; · Track bump tests throughout a facility and send email notices to workers and their supervisors;   In addition to enabling configuration of the BW Clip, the unique design of IntelliDoX significantly accelerates functional tests, enabling companies to perform various activities for multiple BW Clip detectors — all at the same time. For example, a group of five IntelliDoX modules can bump 50 BW Clip detectors in fewer than three minutes — with no wasted calibration gas. “With the IntelliDoX, we have engineered a unique form of bump test, called the FastBump, which optimises the functional tests, gas application and transfer of event logs from the BW Clip,” Thompson said. “Thanks to this innovation, the IntelliDoX performs the quickest bump test in the industry: five BW Clip detectors on one module in less than a minute. “With that speed, managers don’t have to set aside hours at the end of the day to bump their fleets, one detector at a time, and workers don’t have to stand in a long queue to bump their detectors,” Thompson added. “Instead, IntelliDoX prevents congestion to improve productivity, enabling plants to get more done in less time.” For more information on this product please visit: www.honeywellanalytics.com

Find out more about their latest cylinder advancements Luxfer Gas Cylinders is the world’s largest manufacturer and provider of all-aluminum and full-wrap carbon composite SCBA and medical oxygen cylinders for global industrial, escape, EMS and firefighting markets. Luxfer cylinders are used more by firefighters and first-responders around the world than any other cylinder brand. Luxfer introduced LCX®-HP (high pressure), the world’s first 5,500-psi SCBA cylinders, at the 2014 FDIC show. Luxfer’s HP cylinders are on average more than 10 percent lighter than standard SCBA cylinders and nearly 20 percent smaller in overall profile—and they provide the same high levels of toughness and durability as all Luxfer composite SCBA cylinders. HP cylinders help reduce the weight burden of a firefighter’s personal protective equipment (PPE) and SCBA ensemble and allow more freedom of movement. Featuring Luxfer’s proprietary SL (super light) liner technology, optimized composite material engineering and state-of-the-art manufacturing, our LCX-HP product line is a significant advancement in SCBA composite cylinder technology. Manufactured in USA, all Luxfer LCX-HP cylinders meet NFPA, NIOSH and SCBA OEM requirements and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. Find out more about our extensive product range in Europe and North America by visiting us at the FDIC show in Indianapolis, Indiana USA, from April 20-25 and at INTERSCHUTZ in Hannover, Germany from June 8-13. Established in 1897, Luxfer Gas Cylinders operates eight manufacturing sites and numerous sales offices across the globe, serving customers in all major gas markets, including medical gases, SCBA and life-support, fire suppression, alternative fuel and specialty gases. Luxfer Gas Cylinders is an operating company of Luxfer Group (NYSE:LXFR). To learn more, please visit www.luxfercylinders.com.

A unique sprinkler drop assembly Tyco Fire Protection Products announces the launch of the new FASTFLEX Model FB. This flexible braided hose is a unique sprinkler drop assembly for installation on wet pipe pendent sprinkler systems in tight or false ceiling spaces. The VdS approved hose allows for testing and charging of the system with water before the ceiling grid is installed. The hose can then be repositioned to fit the final sprinkler location without draining the system of water, saving installation time and costs. The FASTFLEX model’s flexible design provides easier manoeuvrability around ducts and trays in congested spaces, offering additional positions to install the sprinkler. Its versatility also makes the hose ideal for tight and unusual ceiling types and curved plasterboard ceilings. In addition, the product eliminates the need for measuring, cutting and threading pipes, as well as the use of elbows and fittings, contributing towards further reduced costs and project timeline. Comprising a stainless steel flexible hose, a swivel inlet nipple, a sprinkler reducer, and lightweight ceiling bracket components, the unit easily connects from the branch line to the sprinkler. Offering flexibility and simplicity benefits, the Tyco FASTFLEX Model FB is suited to a variety of applications, such as offices, schools, libraries, hospitals and retail complexes. “At Tyco Fire Protection Products, we strive to create innovative, workable products to meet our customers’ needs,” says Wouter Bossink, director of marketing – global valves and devices, Tyco Fire Protection Products. “Investing in approvals and focusing on overcoming user challenges enables us to develop effective solutions that offer customers design freedom, reliability and cost-effectiveness in challenging installation environments.”

Logo: Street1: P.O. Box 8155 City: Stockholm Firemiks AB is a Swedish manufacturer of water motor driven dosing systems for firefighting. Our lead word is SIMPLICITY. The FIREMIKS® dosing system is cost-effective; easy to install, use, maintain and test. Driven by the water flow only, no need of fuel or electricity. Wide flow range from 300 lpm up to 12.000 lpm, dosing rates 0,5%, 1%, 2% or 3%, other options on request. Suitable also for Marine application. Postcode: SE-104 20

Demonstrates the versatility of the company’s technology The Leadenhall Building in London has become the tallest construction project so far to benefit from Ramtech Electronics’ innovative wireless fire alarm system. Laing O’Rourke used the company’s proven wireless emergency system (WES) to protect workers and physical assets during construction of the 224 metre, 45 floor central London development. The Leadenhall Building demonstrates the versatility of the company’s technology – WES is suitable for all types of projects from small construction sites through to large commercial and civil engineering developments. Around 85 per cent of the Leadenhall Building was assembled off site for speed and efficiency. Being a wireless system meant that the WES units could be repositioned quickly and easily, which was key to keeping up with an unprecedented level of construction progress for a high rise structure in the UK. The WES technology also saved time by allowing mandatory weekly fire alarm tests to be carried out using the silent function, avoiding disruption to workers. To eliminate false alarms and lost hours on site, the system uses highest quality Category 1, Euro-harmonised radio in compliance with European standards covering the use of radio technology in emergency equipment (ETSI 300-220-1). Ramtech Electronics has been developing market leading wireless technology specifically for the construction sector for over a quarter of a century. It is the only wireless fire alarm system in the UK to be specifically engineered – and independently tested and approved – to comply with EN54, and therefore with the new Construction Products Regulation (CPR). In addition to helping save lives on construction sites by ensuring workers and visitors are alerted as quickly as possible and can evacuate to safety as soon as a fire is detected, the technology protects valuable assets. In the case of the Leadenhall project that included work in progress and neighbouring high value buildings. Paul Henson, Sales and Marketing Director at Ramtech Electronics said: “The relatively low investment required for our system compared to the protection it provides makes it a very straightforward business decision. Once the work on site is completed the units can simply be moved to the next construction project.” To ensure your site has the best possible protection for workers and assets, whilst complying with the new EN54 standard, call the WES+ helpline on: 00 44 (0) 115 822 3424, or visit: www.wesfire.co.uk

Swiveling 90 degree elbow with stationary flange adapts for many applications After successfully custom engineering a new suction and discharge elbow for use on New York Fire Department fireboats, Kochek Company has introduced the specialty product to broader markets. The Connecticut-based manufacturer of high quality water flow products and connections designed the product to FDNY specifications. Featuring a stationary flange, the 90° elbow incorporates a full-time swivel and locking knob. Such universal adaptability makes the new product well suited for applications beyond its prototype, such as front suction in fire pumpers, fixed assemblies in marinas or shipyards, oil rig platforms, and refinery fire protection inlet manifolds. The new adapter consists of a 6 inch storz head and 6 inch stainless steel flange and may also be ordered with threaded heads. It is available in Kochek’s exclusive Micralox® anodized coating which produces long-lasting resistance to abrasion, chemical and salt corrosion. Micralox is available in several vibrant color options.

At the Wyndham Orlando Resort in Orlando The Fire Protection Research Foundation, an affiliate of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), announced the 19th annual Suppression, Detection and Signaling Symposium (SupDet 2015) will be held March 3-6, 2015 at the Wyndham Orlando Resort in Orlando, Fla. SupDet 2015 addresses professionals in the fire alarm, suppression and emergency communications industries and offers the opportunity to exchange ideas and the latest research. There will be more than 30 presentations to choose from that will touch upon the latest developments in research, technology and applications for the fire protection community including: · detection and signaling research, including detection of cooking fires, carbon monoxide detection, nuisance alarms, notification and standard updates. · sprinkler and other suppression research, including dry systems, storage protection, hybrid systems, lithium ion protection, environment, special applications and sprinkler system design. In addition, a free half-day workshop, “Inspection, Testing and Maintenance (ITM) of Fire Protection Systems: Improving the Effectiveness of Systems” will be offered to all attendees on March 4. This workshop is a “bridge event” between the Suppression and Detection sessions, which all registrants can attend. While ITM activities are recognized for improving fire protection system effectiveness, a few questions have been raised about what constitutes proper ITM activities. Some questions that will be considered are: · How much do current ITM requirements improve the effectiveness of fire protection systems? · How are ITM programs being implemented currently? · Are additional activities, such as design evaluations or re-commissioning, warranted? · On the other side, what is the cost/benefit ratio of ITM activities? Is there a technical basis for the required frequencies? Register today for the full symposium or choose either the Suppression Program or the Detection and Signaling Program. For more information and to register online, contact Eric Peterson at + 1 617-984-7281.

With complete line of 6-inch strainers Kochek Company of Connecticut, manufacturers of high quality water flow products and fire connections, offers an extensive line of big water strainers ideal for maximum flow applications in the firefighting, power, irrigation, facilities and industrial fire protection markets. Company marketing director David Matthews said Kochek customers have recognized the brand as a trusted leader in the manufacture of big water movement products for over two and half decades, providing high quality ice strainers, self-leveling floating strainers, barrel strainers, low-level strainers, and barrel bottom guard strainers in 6-inch sizes recommended for pumps of 1500 to 2000 gpm capacity. Kochek’s strainers are compact and constructed of lightweight aluminum yet are durable to withstand harsh weather conditions while delivering maximum water flow. They come in sizes from 1 ½” to 6” and many are available with Kochek’s exclusive Quantum™ anodized hardcoat in a range of colors. Available in threaded, storz and camlock connections.

A freight train carrying crude oil derailed Source: BBC  Two West Virginia towns have been evacuated after a freight train carrying crude oil derailed and burst into flames. Local websites published images of large flames and a thick plume of black smoke near a partly frozen river. At least 14 cars were affected and one plunged into the Kanawha River, state officials said. There are also reports that a train car crashed into a house, but there were no initial reports of fatalities. Rail company CSX said in a statement that one person was being treated for potential inhalation, but no other injuries were reported. Residents of Adena Village and Boomer have been urged to evacuate after the accident happened at 13:30 (18:30 GMT). Darrin McGuffin, about a quarter-mile from the scene, told the BBC the fire was still out of control late in the afternoon. He estimated about half a mile of the river was burning. Lawrence Messina of the State Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety told the BBC the car that fell into the river is leaking oil. State emergency response and environmental officials headed to the scene – a rural, coal mining area near Montgomery. West Virginia American Water shut down a water treatment plant, located three miles away an hour after the derailment, spokeswoman Laura Jordan said. The plant serves about 2,000 customers. The state was under a winter storm warning and getting heavy snowfall at times, with as much as five inches in some places. It is unclear whether the snow contributed to the crash. The train consisted of two locomotives and 109 rail cars and was travelling from North Dakota to Yorktown, Virginia.