Kills 6 and destroys bridge  A truck carrying fireworks in central China exploded on the morning of the 1st February, destroying an expressway bridge and killing at least six people, according to state media reports. The explosion occurred amid heavy fog on the Yihang bridge near the city of Sanmenxia in central Henan province at about 8.52am, according to the state newswire Xinhua, causing an 80-metre section of the bridge to collapse and sending six vehicles plummeting 30 metres to the ground. Xinhua initially reported that there were four deaths, but the number rose to five in the early afternoon and again to six when another corpse was pulled from the wreckage at 3.30pm. An earlier report by China National Radio, also state-run, put the death toll at 26, but the report has since been retracted. 11 injured people were rushed to two nearby hospitals, three of whom have died. The force from the explosion threw six cars into a ravine beneath the bridge and shattered windows at nearby service stations, according to the People’s Daily website. The south side of the bridge collapsed completely and the north side is still unstable, it said. The People’s Daily quoted experts as saying that the force of a firecracker explosion could in fact destroy a bridge, underscoring widespread concerns in China about the quality of the country’s rapidly constructed infrastructure. Six vehicles have so far been retrieved from the debris and emergency workers have closed off the highway near the accident, according Xinhua. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing. Pictures posted online show a highway strewn with rubble, a red truck stopped dangerously close to the edge of the broken highway, and a pile of wrecked vehicles in the ravine far below. The accident is a stark reminder of safety hazards often associated with Chinese new year celebrations, which begin this year on 10 February. 5,945 fire accidents were reported during the first day of last year’s spring festival alone, according to Xinhua. In 2006, 367 people were killed at a temple fair in Henan when a storeroom of fireworks exploded, according to the Associated Press. Six years earlier, an explosion at an unlicensed fireworks factory killed 33 people, many of them children. The Chinese government outlawed fireworks from 1993 to 2005, but ultimately lifted the ban under intense public pressure. SOURCE: The Guardian

To Stinger and Strion LED families Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, added new High Lumen (HL) models to its popular Stinger® LED and Strion® LED series of lights. The new Stinger® LED HL™, the Stinger DS® LED HL™ and the Strion® LED HL™ use state-of-the-art C4® LED technology to provide industrial, automotive, outdoor and other users with extreme brightness, delivering up to 640 lumens. "Like our other High Lumen products, these powerful new lights are designed to give everyone from automotive mechanics to outdoor enthusiasts full awareness of their surrounding environment when operating under darkened conditions,” said Streamlight Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Michael F. Dineen. “With a wide beam pattern similar to a flood light, they are ideal for lighting up the undercarriage of a vehicle, illuminating the dark corners of a work area, or lighting up a campsite, for example. They also are compact and easy to carry.” All of the new models provide three microprocessor-controlled variable intensity modes. The Stinger LED HL and the Stinger DS LED HL deliver a blinding 640 lumens on high, 340 lumens on medium and 170 lumens on the low setting. On the high setting, the new lights provide 22,000 candela peak beam intensity and a beam distance of 297 meters, with a run time of 1 hour and 15 minutes; on the low setting, the lights provide four hours of run time. The Strion LED HL delivers 500 lumens on high, 250 lumens on medium and 125 lumens on low. It offers 10,000 candela peak beam intensity on the high setting over a distance of 200 meters, with a run time of one hour. The light provides 3 hours and 30 minutes of run time on low. Each light is fabricated from 6000 series machined aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish. The DS model of the Stinger LED includes a second, multi-function, push-button tactical tail switch for full-feature control, independent of the other switch. The Stinger LED HL and the Stinger DS LED HL are powered by a 3-cell, 3.6 Volt Ni-MH sub-C battery, while the Strion LED HL uses a 3.75 volt, 2000mAh minimum lithium ion battery with an on-board safety control circuit; both batteries are rechargeable up to 1,000 times. All three new lights fit existing model chargers. The Stinger LED HL and Stinger DS LED HL are impact resistance-tested to 1 meter and the Strion LED HL is impact resistance-tested to 2 meters. Each light also is IPX4 rated for water-resistant operation. Available in black, the Stinger LED HL and the Stinger DS LED HL have MSRPs of $234.60 and $252.20, respectively. The MSRP for the Strion LED HL is $259.23. Each includes Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty. Based in Eagleville, PA, Streamlight, Inc. is marking 40 years of making tough, durable, long-lasting flashlights designed to serve the specialized needs of professionals and consumers alike. Since 1973, the company has designed, manufactured and marketed high-performance flashlights, and today offers a broad array of lights, weapon light/laser sighting devices and vehicle solar charging devices for professional law enforcement, military, firefighting, industrial, automotive, and outdoor applications. Streamlight is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company. For additional information, please call 800-523-7488 or visit www.streamlight.com

C-TEC’s XFP panels protect housing development A powerful network of C-TEC’s XFP analogue fire alarm panels is protecting a prestigious new housing development in Salford. Consisting of four interconnected EN54-compliant 2-loop 32-zone XFP panels, the networked system at Ladywell Point in Eccles provides total fire protection for residents at the 300-apartment complex which comprises three L-shaped blocks, a gate house and a courtyard. Said John King, Contracts Manager of Firehawk Ltd, the company that completed the project: "The networked fire alarm system at Ladywell Point provides the highest levels of protection – vital in a residential development housing large numbers of people. The panel’s engineer friendly cause and effects make programming the automatic smoke vents to operate on a zonal output basis more straightforward, hence the project was completed on time and within budget." Continues John: "In the unlikely event of a fire starting on the top floor, the panel will trigger the smoke ventilation system to let the smoke escape and cause the lift to drop to the ground floor automatically." Over 600 Apollo XP95 devices have also been installed throughout the complex in addition to a vast range of emergency lighting and CCTV equipment. Based in Manchester, Firehawk has been providing an array of specialist and general electrical services across the North West since 1987. The company specialises in the installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire alarm systems. C-TEC is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of life-safety equipment including fire alarm control panels, voice alarms, call systems, power supplies and disabled refuge systems. The company’s new range of ZFP 2-8 loop touchscreen-controlled analogue fire alarm control panels represent a major breakthrough in fire alarm technology with their flexible modular design and massive capability.

At Intersec 2013  Bristol Fire, which is part of Concorde – Corodex Group and M.H. Al Mana Group of Companies (CCG), has revealed its participation at this year’s edition of Intersec, the leading international meeting platform for the Security & Safety industry, which will be held from January 15, 2013 to January 17, 2013 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC). The company is expected to throw the spotlight on Bristol Fire new vehicle manufacturing division, which was established to help address the Middle East region’s growing demand for world class fully efficient and reliable fire fighting and safety vehicles like fire trucks and ambulances. Two vehicles (a fire fighting vehicle and an ambulance) will be placed on display during the event, one of which is from the company’s principal, Ziegler, from Germany. The new multi-million manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi, reflects CCG’s continuing commitment to protect life and preserve the environment. The company’s vehicle manufacturing division stand will be located at 7-705F while its main stand can be found at 7-805F, inside hall 7. The new facility measures at 30,000 square metres and specifically caters to addressing the mobile fire fighting and ambulance needs of civil defence, aviation, police, and oil and gas segments. The soft opening of the new division during the third quarter of 2012 has helped the company position itself in the segment that specializes in the manufacture of fire fighting vehicles, ambulances, and rapid intervention vehicles. Aside from the new vehicle manufacturing division, CCG will also be showcasing its product offerings for the oil and gas segment, specifically its portfolio of products from Williams Fire & Hazard Control Inc, the world’s foremost flammable liquids fire authority. Products include 12-inch fire fighting hoses, fire fighting foam and the Ambassador Monitor, which is the world’s most preferred monitor by oil and gas fire fighters. Lastly, the company’s Bristol Fire Engineering division, a leading manufacturer of high quality fire fighting products, will be launching its pioneering line of fire rated doors, which have been manufactured at the company’s manufacturing facilities in Dubai. The new doors are expected to attract the attention of MEP contractors who are looking for a high quality fire rated door for the right price. “We are looking forward to our coming participation at this year’s edition of Intersec, which will allow us the strategic opportunity to position Bristol Fire Engineering as a leading manufacturer and provider of world class fire fighting equipment,” said Mahmood Awad, Managing Director, CCG. “Over the years, Intersec has provided unique value to all target groups in the Middle East region’s thriving security & safety industry. Eagerly awaited by safety and security professionals, the event has stirred in a growing interest for new technical solutions to be used, particularly across preventing accidents and fire fighting. Participating this year, we are set to showcase our new vehicle manufacturing division and our growing portfolio of products, like monitor/nozzles, foam and fire doors." Intersec 2013 is being held under the patronage of His Highness (HH) Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and features a full program of outdoor demonstrations of tactical rescue operations, a series of safety and security themed conferences and special workshops. Bristol Fire Engineering, which have been exhibitors at Intersec since 2003, have ably positioned itself as market share leaders in the Middle East–investing heavily in the research and development of a product range that can best suit the Middle East and North African (MENA) region and even beyond. The company’s local client base includes the Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO), the Ministry of Interior, Dubai Civil Defense, Qatar Gas and Qatar Petroleum, to name a few.

Brighton and Hove Albion’s new stadium is protected  Opened in July 2011, the new American Express Community Stadium, home to Brighton and Hove Albion Football Team is being protected by the latest Apollo fire detection system. The ‘Seagulls’ site consists of four stands with a 27,444 capacity. The West Stand, its largest, also includes 14 luxury boxes and the premium fans’ 1901 Club. As well as football matches, the stadium is designed to host other sports, music concerts, conferences and exhibitions. The stadium incorporates a banqueting and conference facility, office space, and a club shop and a bar. The long-awaited £100m venue has been built to the very highest specification, incorporating all the best features from other stadia around the world making a truly spectacular arena. To ensure this unique venue and its visitors and staff were adequately protected, VCP Services was called in to provide a first class fire detection system. Vince Clamp, managing director at VCP Services, explains: “In 2009 we were asked to provide a range of facilities for the build. As well as the fire detection system we were contracted to install access control, intruder alarms, disabled refuge, PAVA and CCTV. It’s always good to be involved in the early stage of a build and as this was a completely new venue, we were able to ensure that any fire detection system fitted with the look and feel of the site and also provided appropriate levels of coverage. "We used Discovery Multisensor throughout the stadium, including the stands, ancillary spaces such as the kitchen and plant room and the conferencing areas. This product comprises of a smoke and temperature sensor. The outputs can be reported individually which means a rise in temperature and/or change in level of smoke can be checked separately, improving false alarm management. The sensitivity selection offered by the range was also vital as it allowed us to change the response mode on individual detectors depending on where they were sited. For example, the detectors had a lower sensitivity to fire in areas where smoke and steam would be expected – such as the kitchen. "Apollo’s open protocol approach was also essential. Apollo publishes and shares information including technical data, enabling panel manufacturers and other companies to design compatible controlling equipment. As an installer, it means we are not tied to using one manufacturer but can fit the best product for the site. In this instance, a unique architectural feature of the build made an open protocol approach essential. In most of the conference rooms they have what is described as’ wave’ ceilings – amazing sculptural shapes designed to replicate the nearby sea. The nature of these ceilings means there are large voids above the plaster which had to be protected by an aspirated system. Conventional detectors covered the space below but the system had to work together so we used an Apollo XP95 input/output interface. The interface which is engineered simply removes the need for custom designed equipment and allows the aspirated system and conventional detectors to run on the same loop. It is also fitted with a bi-directional short circuit isolator meaning it would be unaffected by a single short circuit on either loop input or output."   The installation of all of the equipment took twelve months and, having recently completed phase two of the East Stand, VCP has installed more than 700 detectors across 189 zones using five Advanced Mx4400 panels. The team will also be completing the installation of fire detection equipment at the brand new training ground for the ‘Seagulls’ which, although at a different location, will be linked to the stadium’s building management system.   Vince concludes: "With a background in installing a range of facilities in stadia across the UK, it has been a pleasure to be part of this ground-breaking new build. Whilst the fans may have had to wait over a decade for a new home for their team they can rest assured that Apollo fire detectors will continue to protect it for many years to come."

TechXchange in Manchester  Tyco Fire Protection Products has opened a new TechXchange Training Academy in Manchester, United Kingdom which will provide training services to fire and mechanical installers, contractors, specifiers and engineers who design and install fire protection and mechanical solutions, throughout the EMEA region. The Academy, which will be used by Tyco’s regional sales teams and technical trainers from around EMEA, will provide support to customers throughout the region. This will be achieved through hands-on practical and theoretical sessions conducted in local language. The wide range of training solutions that will be provided include automatic sprinkler systems, gaseous suppression, foam fire protection, restaurant fire suppression systems, fire detection and alarm, mechanical and grooved piping solutions and importantly how to design, install and maintain a fire protection system. The Training Academy is easily accessible due to its central location close to both Manchester and Liverpool international airports and motorway network. The centre has a 50m² conference room, a 49m² Sprinkler, Suppression & Mechanical hands‐on training room, a 59m² Detection hands‐on training room and a 12m² spray demonstration room. It is estimated that there will be 90 – 100 training sessions, with over 1000 people trained annually. Geoff Harris, Area Manager at the Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service officially opened the new TechXchange Training Academy, he said "I am pleased to have been invited to open the TechXchange Academy; a training centre such as this will raise awareness on the importance of fire protection systems within the UK for life safety and property protection”. “Regional facilities allow our customers to access a full range of training services. Professional training tailored to local needs and regulations is key to providing best practice in fire safety,” explained Jan Schumer, Territory Manager, UK for, Tyco Fire Protection Products. “With these well equipped new facilities, regional teams will be able to easily hold customised sessions.” At the official opening Tyco welcomed more than 60 customers and visitors to the centre. Through an overview of both practical and theory based presentations that will be delivered, attendees were given a detailed insight into the current strategy and future of the centre. As part of the business’ commitment to sharing its knowledge and expertise within the fire protection industry, Tyco is continuing to investigate further opportunities for additional local training centres across EMEA.

After it had frozen solid  A warehouse in the US city of Chicago, which was encrusted with ice after firefighters apparently extinguished a blaze on Wednesday, is again on fire. Reports said the fire had engulfed the whole building for a second time. Water used to put out the initial fire had frozen in the extreme cold, leaving a thick crust of ice. Fire officials say the structure should be pulled down, as it has already partly collapsed and the weight of the ice would have made it more unstable. Temperatures in the city are currently falling to -7C (19F) at night. The cold has also hampered efforts to put out the fire. About 170 firefighters battled it from Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning, their hoses and hydrants freezing. It is not clear what caused either of the fires, but the warehouse is said to be full of old timber. (Source: BBC)

Numerous commemorations planned  Pierce Manufacturing, an Oshkosh Corporation company, and the leading U.S. manufacturer of fire and emergency vehicles, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2013. Pierce is kicking off its yearlong commemoration by launching a special website section located at www.piercemfg.com/100thAnniversary. The site features an interactive historical timeline, a 100thAnniversary video, a photo contest, limited edition merchandise, and upcoming events. The Pierce 100th Anniversary website, along with social media posts, will provide information about the company’s history and centennial events, including a 100th Anniversary Open House celebration in Appleton on July 13, 2013. The website is also a venue where people can share special memories and photos. “Pierce is a company with humble beginnings, a rich history, and an exciting future,” said Jim Johnson, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president of the Fire & Emergency segment and Pierce Manufacturing. “It is significant that only a small fraction of companies from any industry achieve the 100 year milestone. On behalf of Pierce employees, and all those who preceded us, we pledge an unwavering level of commitment to firefighters, and boldness in our thinking, as we look ahead to the next one hundred years.” Founded in 1913 by Humphrey and Dudley Pierce in Appleton, Pierce Manufacturing first built after-market bodies for Ford Model T chassis. In 1939, the company manufactured its first fire truck body and grew to 20 employees. In 1958, ushering in a new era of boom and platform vehicles, Pierce designed the first ever articulating aerial apparatus that was used to reach up and over tall obstructions. Pierce introduced its first custom chassis and body – the Arrow – in 1982, and that design changed the face of the modern fire industry. More recent examples of Pierce innovations include industry firsts like the Dash® CF fire apparatus (that features an innovative cab-forward design), frontal airbags and the side roll protection systems, and the patented Pierce Ultimate Configuration (PUC) response vehicle. Other examples include Command Zone™ advanced electronics to enhance vehicle troubleshooting and reliability, and TAK-4® independent front suspension for unmatched vehicle maneuverability. Pierce engineers and manufactures its own Husky® foam and Hercules® compressed air foam systems that more effectively attack and suppress structural, wildland, automobile, and fuel fires. Every vehicle component is designed to help firefighters perform safely at their highest level. “The more than 2,000 people who work for Pierce, including many families with multiple generations of service, are our backbone – and the reason for our longevity, success and growth,” added Johnson. “Pierce employees think of their work as more of a vocation than a job, and the average employee tenure is nearly 20 years. That speaks volumes.” Pierce markets its products through the industry’s largest and most comprehensive dealer and service network. The company enjoys a nationwide web of dealerships with over 600 certified and factory trained Service Brigade technicians and over 50 service centers. Pierce also offers custom training sessions for fire departments. Photo Caption: Pierce is kicking off its yearlong centennial celebration and has launched a special website section at www.piercemfg.com/100thAnniversary. This Pierce 100-Year Anniversary logo will be featured on each and every vehicle shipped in 2013. About Pierce Manufacturing Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation [NYSE: OSK] company, is celebrating its 100th year in business in 2013. Pierce is the leading North American manufacturer of custom fire apparatus, including custom and commercial pumpers, aerials, rescue trucks, wildland trucks, minipumpers, elliptical tankers, and homeland security apparatus. In addition, Pierce designs its own foam systems and was the first company to introduce frontal airbags and the Side Roll Protection system to fire apparatus. To learn more about Pierce, visit www.piercemfg.com. About Oshkosh Corporation Oshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corporation manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Jerr-Dan®, Frontline™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. Oshkosh products are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount. For more information, visit www.oshkoshcorporation.com.

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Label: Oil & Gas Title: North Sea oil & gas Teaser: Tim Banner examines fire considerations of oil and gas facilities Label: Fire Protection & Equipment Label: Fire Protection & Detection Label: Recession Title: Fire departments come under scrutiny Teaser: Carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide are the silent killers Teaser: Staff shortages and rising response times