Johnson Controls - Experts & Thought Leaders

Euralarm has started a new project that aims to establish a comprehensive European database focused on the registration of Li-ion batteries, solar panels, EVs, and energy storage in buildings. Stakeholders wanting to contribute to the new initiative are invited to contact Euralarm.  This database will serve as a central resource for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating fire critical data, aiding the development of best practices, and regulatory developments, and being a source of early information for alarm responders in case of a fire.  Background  The rapid adoption of renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels, electric vehicles (EVs), and energy storage systems has introduced new fire safety challenges, particularly in residential and commercial buildings. Li-ion batteries, a key component in these systems, pose significant risks when not properly managed, potentially leading to fire incidents with severe consequences.  Comprehensive European database Euralarm has started a new project that aims to establish a comprehensive European database focused on fire safety For a safer and more secure Europe In response to these emerging risks, Euralarm has started a new project that aims to establish a comprehensive European database focused on fire safety for Li-ion batteries, solar panels, EVs, and energy storage in buildings. Euralarm’s Chris Downing, of Johnson Controls, who spearheaded this initiative, said, "This database will serve as a central resource for collecting and disseminating critical information to local Fire & Rescue Services." Reduced fire loss Chris Downing adds, "The relevant data shall be made available for alarm responders so they have crucial information, before arriving at an incident, to adapt their strategy, aiding firefighter safety, leading to reduced fire losses and ultimately better outcomes." He continues, "By aggregating information from multiple sources, we aim to improve the understanding of fire risks, enhance safety standards, and support the development of robust European regulations."  Focus on collaboration  The initiative will also facilitate collaboration between industry stakeholders, fire brigades, researchers, regulators, and policymakers, helping to shape a safer and more resilient energy infrastructure for Europe and ensure that fire incidents can be managed proactively with reduced risks for firefighters. The database will assist in identifying trends, mitigating risks, and ensuring the safe integration of new technologies in the built environment. Stakeholders wanting to contribute to the new initiative are invited to reach out to Euralarm.

Johnson Controls, the global pioneer for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, launches the new Tyco® ESFR-25 Dry-Type Pendent Sprinkler offering efficient, FM Approved fire protection for commercial refrigerated and frozen storage areas.  The dry-type sprinkler is used in applications where the water is supplied from a wet system in an adjacent conditioned space. It is designed for dependable operation in cold storage areas up to 50 feet (15.2 meters) in height with temperatures as low as minus 60 F (−51°C). Need for a fire pump The ceiling-only, lower-pressure sprinkler provides flexibility and efficiency by reducing the need for a fire pump and eliminating the need for in-rack sprinklers when protecting high-piled storage within these box-in-box applications. While an effective solution, traditional in-rack sprinkler systems can be complex and expensive. Obstructions and tight clearances can make installation difficult while daily operations such as shelving and retrieving products can damage in-rack sprinklers, resulting in potential downtime. Tyco cold storage sprinkler The new Tyco cold storage sprinkler is also designed to operate at lower-end head pressures Innovative ceiling-only cold storage protection, like the Tyco ESFR-25 Dry-Type Sprinkler, operates without the need for in-rack sprinklers for an overall simpler and more affordable solution. As box-in-box freezer storage facilities become taller to accommodate more products, reliable performance at ceiling heights of up to 50 feet offers greater peace of mind. This new Tyco cold storage sprinkler is also designed to operate at lower-end head pressures, reducing or even eliminating the need for a fire pump. Cold storage sprinkler innovation “By combining a 25.2 K-factor sprinkler with a dry-pipe design, we’ve introduced a tested and proven fire suppression solution for high-piled storage in commercial coolers and freezers,” said Beth Bjorlo, senior director, Fire Suppression Products at Johnson Controls. “Backed by a history of trusted Tyco performance, this cold storage sprinkler innovation helps round out our industry-pioneering, full-building portfolio of fire suppression solutions.” Range of cold storage applications With the flexibility to meet a wide range of cold storage applications, the ESFR-25 sprinkler is the only early suppression, fast response dry-type sprinkler with a nominal K-factor of 25.2 that comes in both threaded connections (1-1/4-inch NPT or ISO 7-1) and grooved 2-inch connections. It’s also available with: Ordinary (165 F/74°C) and intermediate (212 F/100°C) temperature ratings 23-, 30- and 36-inch barrel lengths Included insulating seal assembly kit to help minimize condensation and ice buildup.  

Johnson Controls, the global pioneer for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, announces the release of SafeLINC, a cloud-based data-hosting infrastructure that gives users the power to remotely access and gather actionable data from their entire suite of FireClass fire alarm control panels. SafeLINC provides users with a cloud-connected gateway and a cloud application platform accessible via web browsers and native iOS and Android mobile apps. SafeLINC gateway device Together, these components provide facility managers and technicians with real-time life safety infrastructure for faster, more effective emergency response, management capabilities and ongoing maintenance planning. At the heart of the SafeLINC infrastructure is the SafeLINC gateway device At the heart of the SafeLINC infrastructure is the SafeLINC gateway device that is easily connected to FireClass fire alarm control panels with a Serial or Ethernet cable. Once connected to the internet via LAN or optional cellular connection, the gateway sends data from that specific panel to the Johnson Controls Fire Detection Cloud Platform. SafeLINC is compatible with FireClass FC500 / FC600 / FC700 series of fire alarm control panels. SafeLINC Web UI The SafeLINC web UI connects users to the cloud platform where they can access and gather information from all the control panels connected to their account, as if they were standing in front of the panels themselves. Facility managers can use this interface to remotely view panel status, view and search current and historical control panel events using filters, and access reports. Fire control panels and networks  "At Johnson Controls, we are proud to announce the launch of SafeLINC and the potential it unlocks for our customers," said Colm Healy, Senior Product Manager, Johnson Controls. He adds, "Facility managers now have the ability to monitor all fire control panels and networks for which they are responsible, from anywhere. SafeLINC not only provides critical life safety information during emergency situations, but is a key tool in maximizing the efficiency of system maintenance and servicing operations." SafeLINC Mobile App Users can check for current active events and view and search historical events The mobile app offers numerous features to allow on-the-go access to control panel information. Users can check for current active events and view and search historical events. Push notifications through the app also alert users about the most current readings. The app is available on iOS or Android platforms. Fire panel information   "Providing mobile access to fire panel information is vital for people operating in the field," said Colm Healy, Senior Product Manager, Johnson Controls. He continues, "If a maintenance team is on one side of a campus doing one task, a mobile alert can notify them of a problem elsewhere, so they can immediately address that issue. This level of communication improves their overall efficiency, while limiting system downtime." Johnson Controls cybersecurity testing SafeLINC is hosted on the Microsoft Azure platform, managed by the Johnson Controls Global Infrastructure Group, and has passed Johnson Controls cybersecurity testing.  New features, enhancements and analysis tools will be periodically released and available to be updated remotely for added convenience.

Thousands of industry professionals gathered at the 2024 NFPA Conference and Expo in Orlando in June. The event brought together educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibitor showcase. NFPA is the National Fire Protection Association. The NFPA annual meeting allowed members and the public to discuss and vote on proposed changes to fire codes and standards. “It’s a gathering place for people in the industry,” says Dr. Rodger Reiswig, Vice President of Industry Relations at Johnson Controls. “You can walk around the floor and observe the trends, see what people are talking about, and view industry trends through a clear set of eyes.” New Foundation Series  As vice president of industry relations, Reiswig acts as Johnson Controls’ liaison with the NFPA, works with NFPA technology committees, and serves on the Standards Council that oversees more than 300 NFPA codes and standards documents.  Foundation Series is a complete family of fire alarm control units and peripheral devices At the NFPA Conference and Expo in Orlando, Johnson Controls provided “spotlight” seminars at their exhibit booth and highlighted products and services including interactive tools, inspections, remote services, restaurant systems, and the new Foundation Series Fire Safety Solution for the protection of small to mid-size buildings. The Foundation Series is a complete family of fire alarm control units and peripheral devices. NFPA’s codes and standards In addition, Reiswig attended seminars and Standards Council sessions. Technical sessions covered codes and standards that are currently “in cycle” (i.e., in the process of being updated). In a technical session on the last day of NFPA, anyone could attend to suggest changes and garner support from others on various changes. Consensus is a core principle of NFPA’s codes and standards. “This is a chance for everyone to participate, whether your interest is in roofing materials, how buildings are built, or life safety systems,” Reiswig adds. “Codes tell us when to do something, but standards tell us how to do it. If the occupancy standard says put in a fire alarm, the NFPA standard tells you how to do that.” Anyone at any level in any role or discipline can participate. new NFPA 915 Standard  Fire alarm and life safety have yet lagged industry sectors when it comes to remote connectivity “Technology is changing rapidly, and the type of construction is different than 20 or 30 years ago. Use of new tools and materials in buildings is changing how much time I have to escape smoke or fire,” Reiswig says. “New construction materials allow fires to happen quickly, spread faster, and give off toxic chemicals. Tighter buildings ensure energy efficiency, but they allow less ventilation, so carbon monoxide can accumulate faster.” A common theme at the show was remote connectivity, highlighting the new NFPA 915 Standard for Remote Inspections, which guides new technologies to enable remote access and testing of life safety systems. Fire alarm and life safety have previously lagged other industry sectors when it comes to remote connectivity, but the new NFPA 915 standard opens new possibilities, and vendors at the show were promoting remote capabilities and inspections. develop safeguards and capabilities NFPA 915 Standard sets need for performing remote inspections safely and effectively The NFPA 915 Standard establishes requirements for performing remote inspections safely and effectively. It addresses various types of remote inspections. The standard also defines the responsibilities of various parties involved in a remote inspection, such as the inspector, property owner, and authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). The standard covers data collection procedures, data security, and data ownership. Overall, the standard helps to ensure that remote inspections can be conducted in a way that meets safety requirements.  In effect, NFPA 915 gives the green light to manufacturers and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to develop safeguards and capabilities to log into life safety systems remotely. The approach can help to simplify inspections, which can be performed remotely or with only one technician required on-site rather than two. Requirements include how systems communicate, the cybersecurity and credentials required, and the prevention of outside connections. Beyond fire alarms, the standard also allows other remote inspections, such as using a drone in a large warehouse to inspect sprinkler heads.  Real-time information and instructions Inspectors are not allowed into buildings such as nursing homes and clinics to check their safety systems NFPA 915 was being considered before the COVID pandemic, but the business shutdowns and social distancing requirements during the worst of the pandemic increased awareness of the needs and benefits of remote inspections. During COVID, inspectors were not allowed into buildings such as nursing homes and hospitals to inspect their life safety systems. Remote access and inspections became critical, thus raising awareness of the feasibility of remote inspections that continue to drive their adoption. Another area of interest in NFPA was mass notification systems, which have matured a lot since they were introduced into the NFPA code in 2007. It’s easier than ever to provide real-time information and instructions to people in an area. Connectivity among fire alarm systems inside buildings, digital signage, and other life safety systems are promoting better notification. Area of refuge systems A new area of discussion and product development is “area of refuge” systems that complement Americans with Disabilities (ADA) requirements in buildings. In a high-rise building, for example, if the elevators are disabled, it may be impossible for a person using a wheelchair to evacuate. Instead, there are designated “areas of refuge,” which are rated to provide two hours of protection from fire. New notification systems can communicate with first responders about occupants in these areas.  The NFPA conference increasingly incorporates a global presence, encouraging more collaboration among entities, countries, and associations about needs around the world. Manufacturers can work together through various associations including the Automatic Fire Alarm Association, Euralarm in Europe, and others.  “Life safety is worldwide, and fires may be the same or different in various areas,” says Reiswig. “We need to remember that standards are not just for the United States because people are active from other countries.”

It’s been three years since the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) published the most recent edition of the wide-ranging standard that spans “the application, installation, location, performance, inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems, fire warning equipment, and emergency warning equipment and their components.” 2022 update A 2022 edition was officially published in September 2021, after thousands of hours of collaboration, review, and debate among a technical committee. The 2022 update is a significant one; there are hundreds of changes in the document, ranging from minor edits of terminology to major items like Cybersecurity. Whether you’re an architect, engineer, contractor, or building owner/manager, NFPA 72 matters. It will have an impact on how you design, test, install and maintain life safety systems in the future. So even if your jurisdiction will not immediately adopt the 2022 edition of NFPA 72, it’s important to know what’s in the pipeline. Understanding the new edition will enable you to plan for the future and gain insight into how technologies like remote access are changing life safety and building systems. Here are five things you need to know about the 2022 edition of NFPA 72: 1) Secondary power supply requirements for batteries have changed Fire alarm control units typically rely on their local power grid as a primary power supply Batteries play a significant role in ensuring fire alarm system reliability but are one of the most overlooked items. Fire alarm control units typically rely on their local power grid as a primary power supply, and when that grid is operational, all is fine. However, should that power failure due to weather interference or technical failure and brownout conditions occur, the secondary power supply comes into play? Capacity  NFPA 72 states that the secondary power supply (typically batteries) for the protected premises system shall have sufficient capacity to operate the system under quiescent load (system operating in a nonalarm condition) for a minimum of 24 hours. At the end of the 24-hour, the secondary power supply must be capable of operating all alarm notification appliances used for evacuation or to direct aid to the location of an emergency for five minutes. If the system incorporates in-building fire emergency voice/alarm communications, then the system needs to operate for 15 minutes. Charging system Batteries need to be able to take a charge from the charging system within the fire alarm control unit. Batteries have a life expectancy and also need to be load tested at least annually. But not all batteries are created equal. So much so that NFPA 72 has decided to raise the bar and impose a new requirement for the batteries used in fire alarm control units. Listing standards Examples of listing standards are UL 1989, Standby Batteries, and UL 2054, Household and Commercial Batteries NFPA 72 states that effective January 1, 2024, rechargeable batteries for the secondary power supply used in control units, devices, and accessories shall be listed or component-recognized by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. The action was taken because of the acknowledged new dangers posed by today’s battery technologies, primarily due to increased energy densities. Examples of listing standards are UL 1989, Standby Batteries, and UL 2054, Household and Commercial Batteries. 2) Fire alarm control units powered by the Internet of Things require new cybersecurity measures Should you be concerned about cybersecurity in a fire alarm control unit? It depends on how it was installed and connected. Many fire alarm systems do not require cybersecurity as they typically use their wiring and infrastructure and do not connect to “outside” equipment. For example, smoke detectors connected to the fire alarm control unit with wires only used for the fire alarm system, meaning there are no attack vectors that could be exploited. However, this is rapidly changing. Cybersecurity standards With fire alarm systems able to connect to the internet, allowing a user to see the status of their system on an app and even perform remote service diagnostics, these cloud-based integrations require new cybersecurity measures. Underwaters Laboratories, UL, has created a suite of cybersecurity standards. For example, The UL 2900 series of documents covering cybersecurity encompass healthcare, industrial and life safety signaling systems. Now manufacturers can produce fire alarm control units listed to these standards and “build-in” cybersecurity measures. Patches Bad actors are constantly on the prowl for vulnerabilities and patches need to be sent periodically But cybersecurity protection doesn’t stop once a piece of equipment leaves the factory. Bad actors are constantly on the prowl for vulnerabilities and patches need to be sent periodically to fix any such avenues for attack. Just like our computers, mobile devices, etc. all routinely receive updates to help to prevent unwanted attacks, fire alarm systems are no different. How these patches will get delivered and tested is different. Fire alarms Fire alarms need to function all of the time, they cannot go down unless service personnel or Firewatch people are on site. When patches are implemented, we need to ensure the system still functions properly, has come back online properly, and has not been compromised. Fire alarms, unlike our computers, cannot be rebooted over and over trying to fix them when a patch does not function properly. Nor do we have the luxury to replace a fire alarm CPU as quickly as a laptop. Guidelines for cybersecurity To address all of this, NFPA 72 has created a new chapter for 2022, Chapter 11 entitled “Cybersecurity.” The chapter is a placeholder for the technical committees to work on for the 2025 edition. But it does offer a glimpse into things to come and provides some guidance for today. Along with the chapter addition, there is a new Annex J entitled “Guidelines for Cybersecurity.” There is a wealth of information on how cybersecurity measures can be improved for fire alarm and signaling solutions within the new annex. 3) Remote access for fire alarm control units requires new capabilities We do not want to allow bad actors to possibly use the fire alarm system to access larger digital infrastructure Now that systems are being connected for users to see the status of their systems and remote diagnostics have become the norm, NFPA and UL have had to make changes to the allowance and proper usage of these features. UL 864 the Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems has recently added testing protocols for remote access for fire alarm systems. NFPA 72 has also added guidance for how to properly implement remote access. Like cybersecurity, we do not want to allow bad actors to possibly use the fire alarm system to access larger digital infrastructure and do harm. Benefits The benefit of having properly listed equipment and processes for remote access is the door is now open even wider for remote testing, programming, and other applications. Some of the additions to NFPA 72 are that remote access shall not affect the operation or response of the fire alarm or signaling systems. Remote access can now allow for the first time the ability to test and perform maintenance activities, including the resetting, silencing, or operation of emergency control functions. Remote access There are additional requirements such as the system needing a means to manually terminate the remote access connection at the remote device and the fire alarm or signaling system control unit at any time. Further, remote access needs to automatically terminate within a maximum of one hour of inactivity in the remote access mode. Also, the resetting, silencing, or operation of emergency control functions shall be limited to a portion(s) of the system taken out of service and must be enabled by a qualified person onsite by password or limited access. 4) Fire alarm systems must meet new MNS standards The 2007 edition of the NFPA 72 added annex materials to guide allowing a fire alarm system to be used The role of communication in fire systems has been evolving for years, and NFPA 72 has been evolving with it. The 2007 edition of the NFPA 72 added annex materials to guide allowing a fire alarm system to be used or connected to a Mass Notification System (MNS). In the 2010 edition, this was taken a step further with the creation of Chapter 24, Emergency Communications Systems (ECS). UL 2572 Standard At that time there were no listing standards for MNS or ECS, but that was about to change. UL created a new Standard in 2016, UL 2572 Standard for Mass Notification Systems. This new Standard allows for equipment to become certified to be used for MNS or ECS applications. Since the Standard has been released many manufacturers have been able to obtain this certification for their respective systems. Starting with the 2022 edition of NFPA 72, control units installed as part of an MNS must be listed by applicable standards such as UL 2572, and Mass Notification Systems. 5) You are key to the process The NFPA has made the process of updating NFPA 72 rigorous, open and inclusive, and the organization values your opinion. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Your knowledge, input, and feedback will help ensure that life safety standards continue to improve in a way that makes sense for everyone. If you believe there are key changes that should be addressed or new technologies that should be added, go to the NFPA website to make your voice heard.

When it comes to investments, fire suppression is the one we hope to never utilize. All too often it acts like a safety blanket, unseen yet always there, a hidden investment policy we hope never to have to cash in. With systems, we manage daily, such as heating, air conditioning, and lighting, a fault is often noticeable and easy to identify. But how do you quickly ascertain an issue with fire safety infrastructure? RRO Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 The introduction of the RRO Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 took the responsibility for fire safety away from fire and rescue services and placed the obligation solely on the building owner or occupier. To align, every commercial or industrial property must have a designated individual who is responsible for fire safety, and the onus is on them to make their premises compliant. Failing this, fines, prosecution, and even custodial sentences can be implemented. Fire suppression systems Fire suppression systems can generally be forgotten, trivialized, or taken for granted Fire suppression systems can generally be forgotten, trivialized, or taken for granted when in reality they are the unsung hero of commercial, industrial and residential properties. A recent study from the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), shows sprinklers were found to reduce civilian deaths by 89% and firefighter injuries by 60%, proving their ability to simultaneously control fires and protect property and commodities, all the while keeping members of the public safe. Importance and maintenance of fire safety systems Having worked in fire safety and compliance for over 35 years, I work to accurately advise building owners, occupiers, and property managers on their fire suppression infrastructure and the importance of care and maintenance every day. Below are my top tips on how to approach fire safety and protect property, commodities, and building occupiers. sprinkler servicing and maintenance guidelines To increase awareness of fire safety compliance and ensure that all buildings meet industry-approved standards, RISC Authority and the Fire Protection Association (FPA) have teamed up to support those with limited experience or knowledge. Their new Sprinkler System Service & Maintenance guide gives building managers, owners, and occupiers the confidence to manage this element of fire safety, with easy-to-follow guidance, templates, and checklists. Stay alert When assessing and planning for fire safety, watch out for common pitfalls to make premises fully compliant When assessing and planning for fire safety, watch out for common pitfalls to make premises fully compliant. Ensure the product supplier, installer or servicing contractor is third-party accredited so that the fire protection systems are fully compliant. It is a delicate balancing act between cost and compliance, but there is no guarantee the cheapest option meets national compliance standards if they are not accredited. A higher cost can mean an increased duty of care, better call-out times, and emergency service. Age of the sprinkler Check the age of your sprinkler system, as the water storage should be drained and its condition assessed every 10 years. Failure to do so could result in the tank collapsing and perhaps flooding your premises if not checked regularly. Age is also important for the sprinkler heads themselves and these should be inspected and tested every 25 years. To ensure that they can still operate as intended in a fire condition and distribute water as they should, a sample selection is required to be removed from service and sent to an independent lab, like the FPA’s for Inspection and Testing. Hazard Reviews Carry out regular “Hazard Reviews” of fire safety infrastructure. An expert will visually inspect the systems in place to ensure they meet the industry standard and advise of any updates that are required. From my experience, a Hazard Review is an essential way to reveal blind spots in fire safety and suppression systems. Over the years, I have discovered sprinklers that are not connected to system pipework and identified ill-fitting fire doors that are not fit for purpose on hazard review inspections, all of which can pose a major danger in the event of a fire. Monitoring changes When the purpose of space changes, so do its fire safety requirements Especially relevant post-COVID with the development of hybrid buildings and flexible workspaces, it is important to monitor the change of use. When the purpose of space changes, so do its fire safety requirements. Sprinkler systems may have been originally designed and installed for one particular hazard, so if the use of that area or building changes, its risk classification may also become more onerous. For example, if a factory wanted to store products in a specific location rather than use the space solely for manufacturing as it has done previously, the new use of the space may render the current fire safety systems unfit for purpose.  Supplier criteria The three most important questions when choosing a supplier: How punctual is the organization in the event of an issue? The supplier must offer 24/7 responses to rectify and resolve urgent issues and ensure that your premises are safe and secure. Is the supplier and contractor third-party accredited? Ensuring that a supplier and contractor are approved by an independent body like the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) is vital. This helps assure that all fire safety foundations such as fire doors, sprinklers, and other methods of fire suppression are suitably compliant and maintained and serviced by current safety standards. Does the supplier have a reliable reputation? It’s worth asking how long they have been running? Length of service and reputation of a supplier is a necessity. Although a more reputable supplier may charge higher costs upfront, the long-term benefits will prevail, and it guarantees no work to be redone in the future. Fire Safety Compliance It is vital to ensure premises are always fully compliant. Alongside adhering to commercial and industrial building insurance standards, well-implemented fire safety is vital for legal compliance, inspiring the confidence of occupiers and providing overall comfort and safety. Stick with these useful suggestions and download the FPA’s Sprinkler System Service & Maintenance guide to safeguard your building and its occupants.