Industrial Fire Safety

This week is Firefighter Safety Stand Down, and fire departments are encouraged to suspend non-emergency operations to focus on training and education relating to this year’s theme - Fire Training: Back to Basics. Daily topics focus on the fundamentals of a successful training program, culminating in the 12 Foundations of Fire Department Training. Many resources are available to help departments implement Safety Stand Down and enhance their training initiatives throughout the year. These include: The 12 Foundations of Fire Department Training, can be used as discussion points during crew training or on a meeting night. Download the poster to hang in the station as a constant reminder for all personnel. The Safety Stand Down Quiz tests the knowledge of this year’s theme. Take the quiz by June 19 to enter for the chance to win a limited-edition challenge coin. Activity ideas and resources that can be used this week and beyond to strengthen and enhance the department’s training initiatives. Presentations on each of the week’s daily themes. On-demand recordings of a Roundtable Talk and Podcast focusing on this year’s theme.

Following a decision of its Board, Euralarm has welcomed Safety Technology International as a new member. The company will join the Fire Section of Euralarm, which monitors and analyzes the developments and reviews what the impact of new technologies can be. This not only will help members to better understand the topics and their impact but also act as a guidance on prioritizing the actions and the work regarding standardization and certification. Understanding of the EU policy Companies joining Euralarm get a unique insight into what is happening in other European markets Companies joining Euralarm get a unique insight into what is happening in other European markets and the opportunities that they might offer. They not only tap into the expertise and understanding of the EU policy, but can also make personal connections with technical and policy-making experts and potential business partners. Being a member of Euralarm enables companies and associations to gain expertise on standardization. Members like Safety Technology International have their voice heard in Brussels and can support and direct standardization and legislative processes. Legislative and standardization issues Safety Technology International will now benefit from Euralarm’s services in terms of representation towards European institutions and standardization organizations. This includes the monitoring of legislative and standardization issues relevant to the industry, such as the energy transition and chemicals regulation. Safety Technology International will have access to the extended network of national associations and major companies in the electronic fire safety and security sectors, which form Euralarm’s members. The new membership will create opportunities for both sides, as it also strengthens the association.

For the sixth consecutive year, Anheuser-Busch and its wholesaler partners are joining forces with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to deliver over 1.5 million cans of emergency drinking water to volunteer fire departments across the country. This donation will prepare local volunteer firefighters with vital resources ahead of the annual summer wildfire season, rather than waiting until after disaster strikes. The continued partnership builds on the brewer’s longstanding history of showing up for its communities and demonstrates its deep appreciation for the first responders who help to keep them safe. Anheuser-Busch's water donations Anheuser-Busch's water donations allow these departments to free up limited resources Across the country, 65 percent of firefighters — typically the first line of defense in local emergencies — are volunteers, often with limited department budgets for critical supplies. Anheuser-Busch's water donations allow these departments to free up limited resources for other expenses or equipment needed to keep their force prepared to respond to any emergency or disaster.  Produced and canned by Anheuser-Busch breweries, the 1.5 million cans of emergency drinking water will be distributed to over 630 volunteer fire departments (VFDs) across 44 states. Partnership with the NVFC "Our continued partnership with the NVFC and volunteer firefighters across the country embodies the rich heritage of Anheuser-Busch and our commitment and long-standing track record of supporting our communities when they need us most - because that’s who we are," said Cesar Vargas, Chief External Affairs Officer at Anheuser-Busch. Cesar Vargas adds, "Along with our wholesaler partners, Anheuser-Busch is honored to leverage our production, packaging and logistics capabilities to assist the firefighters who lead with courage to protect us every time they’re called upon." Focus on disaster preparedness Anheuser-Busch has been providing support for disaster relief efforts dating back to 1906 Anheuser-Busch has been providing support for disaster relief efforts dating back to 1906, in partnership with the American Red Cross. With an increased focus on disaster preparedness, the brewer started its partnership with the NVFC in 2019 and, together with its wholesaler partners, has delivered nearly nine million cans of clean, safe drinking water to more than 2,000 volunteer fire departments across 49 states. "We’re thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with Anheuser-Busch to support local volunteer fire departments across the nation with drinking water so firefighters can stay hydrated and operating at their best during emergency response," said NVFC Chair - Steve Hirsch, adding "This vital resource helps to prepare our communities and improve the resiliency of our country, assuring that firefighters are able to safely protect themselves and our towns year-round." Disaster relief efforts Anheuser-Busch’s breweries in Cartersville, Georgia and Fort Collins, Colorado periodically pause beer production each year to can clean, safe emergency drinking water to support disaster relief efforts.  Since 1988, Anheuser-Busch has donated more than 93 million cans of clean drinking water to U.S. communities affected by natural disasters and other crises.

Edwards, a global major in fire alarm, mass notification, and hazard warning systems, is showcasing its unwavering commitment to fire and life safety innovation with the launch of the Optica™ Duct Smoke Detector at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Conference & Expo 2024, which is taking place from June 17-19, 2024, at the Orange County Convention Centre, in Orlando, Florida, USA. Edwards is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. Optica Duct Smoke Detector The all-new Optica Duct Smoke Detector represents a significant leap forward in duct smoke detection technology. Specifically designed for HVAC smoke detection, the Optica Duct Smoke Detector brings enhanced confidence to site managers and end-users, who have struggled to find smoke detection solutions that address the moisture and dust challenges of the HVAC environment.  Optica sensor technology Its new design features include a free-flowing air chamber, anti-fog coating Edwards reshapes commercial building fire and life safety by combining patented Optica sensor technology with a revolutionary new design that delivers enhanced performance and reduced nuisance alarms. Its new design features include a free-flowing air chamber, anti-fog coating across the complete sensing area, and dual-wall construction. people and property safety Optica Duct Smoke Detection exemplifies Edwards' dedication to developing innovative solutions that prioritize the safety of people and property. Attendees at the NFPA Conference & Expo are invited to visit Edwards' Innovation-focused booth (#1900) and experience the future of life safety technology.  fire and life safety solutions In addition to the launch of the Optica Duct Smoke Detector, Edwards will be showcasing its comprehensive portfolio of fire and life safety solutions at the NFPA Conference & Expo. These include: ModuLaser® Integration with EST4: The latest in early smoke detection, Edwards will showcase its seamless integration of ModuLaser, the industry’s most flexible Aspirating Smoke Detection solution, with its flagship EST4 panels.  Genesis™ LED Notification Appliances: Delivering cost and energy savings.  Learn about the upcoming release of Genesis LED High Candela speakers and strobes, boasting a 185-candela setting at just 53mA, and Genesis LED Low-Frequency Notification appliances, offering significant enhancements to industry standards. ConnectedSafety+ Cloud-Based Software as a Service (SaaS) Solution: Elevating the potential of intelligent fire and life safety systems, Edwards ConnectedSafety+ is a cloud-based SaaS life-cycle solution that optimizes the efficient management of commercial fire installations remotely with predictive site maintenance insights, real-time event notifications, intelligent reporting, floor plan device mapping and a multi-site dashboard that enables managers to view all locations at once remotely or on-site. unparalleled performance and reliability "Edwards has a long-standing history of exceeding industry standards and pushing the boundaries of innovation in fire and life safety solutions," said Jon Hughes, VP of Product Management. He adds, "Our participation at the NFPA Conference & Expo allows us to connect with industry pioneers and showcase our latest advancements, including the groundbreaking Optica Duct Smoke Detector, purposefully designed to deliver unparalleled performance and reliability in HVAC environments."  Optica Duct Smoke Detectors will be available in June 2024.

Evolution, the integrated fire and security business, has appointed Lars Pedersen to the new position of Country Manager for the Nordics to establish a new regional presence and continue to build a dedicated local team. Lars Pedersen Lars joins from LenelS2, where he spent over 20 years in various senior roles, latterly as Regional Sales Director for Northern Europe based in Oslo. He is an Engineer by profession, having worked in the security industry since 1987, building skills in project management, product development, and sales. new responsibilities Within Evolution, he will take the lead on the company's existing programs for global operators Within Evolution, he will take the lead on the company's existing programs for global operators, as well as developing new business opportunities with local firms and critical infrastructure providers in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. Lars Pedersen says he is pleased to be joining the business at such an exciting time, "Having sold LenelS2 products to Evolution and worked with the team for many years on various projects it is exciting to now be part of the team going forward and in such an important role." developing new opportunities Lars Pedersen adds, "Evolution has witnessed significant international growth in recent years, and I am delighted to be part of a team with the ambition and experience to become the pre-eminent integrated fire and security solutions provider in the Nordic region." Richard Lambert, Managing Director of Evolution, says that Lars’ product knowledge and industry experience are key, "Having a local presence will not only enable us to provide even better support to our existing clients but also actively develop new opportunities with local organizations."  market opportunity Richard Lambert continues, "The scale of the market opportunity warrants the significant investments we will be making in establishing a new regional hub and recruiting further recognized talent." Evolution has been a Lenel Value Added Reseller (VAR) for nearly 30 years.

The possible source of fire in the type of industry will determine the best fire protection for safety needs. Understanding the primary cause to protect oneself and others in an emergency is also necessary. This article discusses the significance of choosing the best fire protection for the type of industry. Office Environments Did users know that cooking equipment is the primary cause of fires in office buildings? Other major causes of fires in office properties may include: Office, electronic, and entertainment equipment Exposure Arson Smoking products Heating equipment And electrical/lighting items flammable materials As soon as the fire begins, it utilizes these combustible materials to become more prominent Additionally, flammable materials are a big reason flames spread everywhere in office properties. As soon as the fire begins, it utilizes these combustible materials to become more prominent. This is why adequate disposal of materials and appropriate storage is a critical aspect of the fire protection plan. Restaurants Commercial kitchens, such as restaurants, are most likely to have fire from ovens, ranges, deep fryers, barbecues, and grills. These cooking equipment mostly provoke the majority of all restaurant flames. Additionally, other central fire causes in the restaurant industry include: Arson Electrical and lighting equipment Heating equipment Smoking items Fortunately, Judd Fire Protection provides commercial fire protection services to defend against all flames in commercial kitchens.  Warehouses and Manufacturing Plants Unfortunately, fires in industrial environments are the costliest regarding property damage and loss of life. The most major prevalent fire risks in industrial settings may include: Combustible gases and liquids may provoke explosions if they directly touch a heat source. Flammable dust quickly catches on fire if there is a spark. The flames may also rapidly spread if sufficient dust has gathered on the factory floor. Plus, hot work can release molten material and sparks into the atmosphere. This is a prevalent cause for flammable liquid or combustible dust to obtain fire. Electrical wiring not correctly installed can provoke a spark and develop a source of flammable liquids and combustible dust. Lastly, heavy machinery and equipment can be dangerous if moving parts generate excessive friction and heat. Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention For those who want to ensure their home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. It has over two decades of experience in designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. The company serves clients throughout the Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia regions in USA.

While the technology sector was once considered the most desirable in terms of salary and job security, recent layoffs have exposed its vulnerability. Job security has always been a sought-after job benefit, and one career path that’s often overlooked is skilled trades. The skilled trades industry stands out as a resilient sector, offering the next generation of workers a promising path for growth and professional development through on-the-job experience and education. Significant talent gap With the retirement of Baby Boomers leading to a significant talent gap, current trade professionals are now more determined than ever to attract younger workers to the industry.  Regrettably, many students in high school fail to see the value of pursuing a career in skilled trades. In a 2022 survey, only 16% of students noted they were likely to consider a career in the skilled trades. However, as other industries face a high level of uncertainty, the skilled trades offer stability and constant demand for services such as new construction, renovations, and climate change-resilient building improvements. The Benefit of Trade Education One of the major benefits of skilled trades education is its flexibility and room for career advancement The skilled trades industry presents young professionals with unique opportunities for hands-on learning and digital skill development. And as the next generation begins to explore higher education alternatives to gain valuable life skills, hands-on training in skilled trades becomes increasingly appealing. In trade education, learning happens directly from experiences in the field, complemented by classroom training, on-demand video sessions, and even virtual reality (VR) simulations. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to start their careers immediately, avoiding the burden of college debt. One of the major benefits of skilled trades education is its flexibility and room for career advancement. Unlike traditional four-year college programs, trade school education typically lasts around two years, making it accessible to individuals at different stages of their careers. Moreover, the skilled trades industry provides workers with continuous opportunities for education and specialization. Formal certifications or licensing requirements define career paths in the skilled trades, and workers can pursue additional certifications to open new avenues for advancement. Beyond Traditional Training Techniques To maintain its resilience, the skilled trades industry is embracing technology To maintain its resilience, the skilled trades industry is embracing technology, integrating tech-focused learning methods and digital platforms to streamline processes and increase efficiency. Gen Z is inherently tech-savvy, and incorporating new technologies in training and in the field will attract these younger generations to the industry.  This can include implementing tech-focused learning methods, embracing gamification, or transitioning from physical code books to digital platforms to streamline processes, make work more efficient, and increase engagement on new tools coming onto the jobsite. While the skilled trades industry offers numerous opportunities for growth and professional development, it is essential to acknowledge that these professions are not without their risks. Enhancing safety training Skilled trade workers, particularly those in fields like construction, electrical work, and fire safety, are often exposed to serious fire, electrical, and related hazards on the job. Ensuring the safety of these workers is of paramount importance. One powerful solution to enhance safety training is the integration of digital learning technology One powerful solution to enhance safety training is the integration of digital learning technology, which is uniquely suited to provide deep immersion simulations. By incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) training modules, skilled workers can experience lifelike scenarios that simulate potential hazards in a controlled environment. This kind of training allows them to develop critical skills, practice emergency response procedures, and make informed decisions without facing real-life risks. By leveraging digital learning technology, the skilled trades industry can better equip its workers with the knowledge and experience needed to enhance job safety and minimize workplace accidents. The Bottom Line The skilled trades industry presents a promising future for the next generation of talent. It offers resilience in the face of economic fluctuations and provides abundant opportunities for growth and professional development through hands-on training. To attract a new generation to this industry, organizations must be willing to not only emphasize value, in terms of resiliency salary, to candidates, but also show that the industry is moving towards innovation just like any other profession. As the industry continues to embrace technology, such as digital learning, it will remain relevant and appealing to young, technologically adept individuals seeking rewarding and stable careers. And by showcasing the value and potential of skilled trades, we as skilled trades professionals can inspire more individuals to consider this path and take the first step toward a successful and fulfilling career.

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.

As a company officer, the day will come where you and your crew are first to arrive at what looks like the beginning of a major incident. Your Battalion Chief (BC) is delayed or diverted to other incidents, so YOU are the Incident Commander (IC). How you set the table for this incident with regard to quickly setting up the Incident Command System (ICS) is critical. And how you use your channels of communication, including the ways you communicate, will be crucial to your success. Before we jump into the ‘how-to’, let’s examine something that looms over everything we do during emergencies, especially fires - ‘The NIOSH 5’. I first became aware of the NIOSH 5, when listening to one of Anthony Kastros’ lectures on incident command and the need for an organization on the fire ground. ‘The NIOSH 5’ Firefighters and emergency workers typically get lost, hurt, or killed at incidents, when any one of five causal factors identified by The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are present: Improper risk assessment Lack of incident command Lack of accountability Inadequate communications Lack of SOPs (or failure to follow established SOPs) Statistically, 50 percent of these line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) and injury events occur in the first 15 minutes of an incident. Half of those occur in the first three minutes! If you’re the initial IC, it’s statistically likely this could happen while you’re in charge. Need for training and practice in handling emergencies Keeping ‘The NIOSH 5’ at the forefront of your mind should trigger the need for training and practice in handling emergencies. Although there are factors you simply can’t control during an emergency, you can control communications, incident command, accountability, repetitive training, and standardization. The following are some things to keep in mind while managing an incident: Arrival on Scene In incident management, setup is everything and oftentimes, determines the outcome of the incident. To use a sports analogy, you definitely want your first pitch to be a strike. So how do you do that? Provide a Solid Size-up Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications The first step is taking a deep breath and giving a good size-up. Clear and concise on-scene conditions reports set the tone for any incident and establish solid communications, and a command tone. Your tone and tempo in your size-up will help focus everyone and create a tactics-driven incident, rather than an emotions-driven one. But, if we’re being honest, being cool takes practice and repetition. Your agency should have a standardized way for how and when this size-up is delivered. In many cases, it’s a fill-in-the-blank script that includes the following four things: What you see (smoke and flames/or nothing showing) The area you see it affecting (the second story, the alpha/bravo corner) What’s happening/what’s on fire or causing the hazard (a two-story home or a sedan next to a building) Establishing command (a must-take command or pass, if you’re going to rescue a citizen) By practicing within your agency’s standards, it enables you to project a cool tone over the radio like you’ve ‘been there before. Order resources early and often Tunnel vision is a death sentence for any IC. In most cases, this is not the time to get sucked into task-level problems. The exceptions to this are structure fires and other emergencies where there is an immediate and known rescue. Otherwise, it’s time to step back, take in the big picture, and make decisions as an IC. Ask yourself: ‘What will this incident do in five minutes? 10? 20? One hour?’ If the answer is ‘get bigger’, then you need more resources. Order them early and often, because they can always be turned around. Don’t try to do too much with too little. Trusted Incident Command System equals early accountability As the initial IC, you’ll be sending crews into the hazard zone. It’s a red flag if, during the initial portion of the incident, you don’t have solid accountability. It’s during this initial ‘fog of war’ that we lose track of crews, and it’s when personnel gets hurt or killed. NFPA 1561, along with other best practices, requires that you know where everyone is and what they’re doing. If you don’t have that knowledge, stop and figure that out, or assign someone to figure it out and report back to you as soon as possible. Benefits of an all-in-one digital platform - Tablet Command Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crew Many agencies require the first-arriving officer to implement some form of an ICS to track crews – a notepad, whiteboard, tactical worksheet, or better yet, a digital command board. The huge advantage of an all-in-one digital platform like Tablet Command is that it’s CAD-integrated and will populate resources for you in real-time. There’s no writing and scribbling while listening to garbled radio traffic, and no trying to ‘catch up’ with resource orders that change on the fly. Accountability integrated into command processes With a platform, such as Tablet Command, all you’re doing is dragging and dropping resources into their assignments, which automatically time-stamps their activities. Maintaining accountability becomes seamlessly integrated into your command processes. These digital platforms also tend to be highly recognizable and easy for others to assume command. It’s paramount that you train extensively on whatever system your agency uses, and that everyone in your region or agency is squared away on how to maintain accountability in a standardized fashion. It’s a problem if you have several chiefs and company officers, and too many (or not enough) ways of maintaining accountability. Many agencies need the first-arriving officer to implement an ICS to track crews Segment and subdivide How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Use your knowledge of your ICS to break up the incident into manageable bites. When the Fire Chief arrives, they’ll have simple questions: Where is everybody? What are they doing? How are they doing? How do I talk to them? Knowing where your people need to deploy and what channel they’re on are critical to accountability. Using the command board is a great way to have all of those questions answered. Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly Using divisions, groups, or sectors can make your life easier in this regard, especially as an incident grows rapidly. This is true because it ensures you’re talking to the supervisors of each segment of the emergency, especially when assessing conditions, actions and needs. Setting up an incident this way should also be an expectation that is agency-wide and practiced in scenario-based training. The terminology should be standardized so that your agency and neighboring agencies aren’t interpreting what you’re trying to accomplish in the heat of battle. Summary A clear communications plan, solid scene size-up, and early establishment of the ICS by company officers are critical to incident success. Combine this with accurate and solid accountability systems, either through analog methods or with a modern digital solution in real-time, and you guarantee safer outcomes for your crews. The best way to be prepared is through long hours of dedicated practice in the command role and, more importantly, an agency-wide understanding of what’s in the play book: Standardization! A standard approach to managing incidents will help you remedy the chaos and enable you to hand over a well-organized incident to the first-arriving Chief.

Information systems drive greater situational awareness when emergency responders are rushing to the scene, including access to live-911 audio feeds, video of the unfolding emergency, and/or geographic information showing the locations of fire hydrants and the best travel route to ensure the most rapid response. Information tools to manage emergency response include the locations of teams, vehicles, and personnel available in three dimensions, including locations in a multi-story building. Panasonic’s technology “First responders are thinking about getting to the scene and planning their disaster response,” says Aidan Clifford, Panasonic’s National Sales Manager. Vital information on the scene of an emergency includes video feeds, coordination with other services in the city or county, and communication with various responding agencies.  Providing hardware to manage information during emergency response, Panasonic works to understand “the voice of the customer.” The company’s TOUGHBOOK ruggedized laptop computers serve the needs of fire and emergency response entities. A new Fire Advisory Council, currently being assembled, will help to guide Panasonic’s technology direction, and increase their understanding of the practical information needs of firefighters and other emergency responders. Panasonic survey Panasonic survey, 55% of respondents said access to real-time data is a top priority for their agency “The goal is to provide more information to end users more quickly,” says Marcus Claycomb, Panasonic’s Business Development Manager for the Public Sector. “Better information can save response time and enable first responders to adjust the type of response in real-time.” For example, streaming video can provide details of an unfolding emergency to firefighters as they are driving to the call. In a Panasonic survey, 55% of respondents said access to real-time information is a top priority for their agency. Useful information includes who is on the scene and where they are in real-time. Smart devices can track locations and vitals. Information goes in two directions. The ongoing deployment of 5G communications and devices will ensure information moves even faster and is more actionable. Live-911 capability Also in the Panasonic survey, 62% of respondents said computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and geographic information system (GIS) data are mission-critical. GIS data can include “layers” of information imposed on a map to show the fastest route to an incident and the locations of fire hydrants and/or accessible video cameras. Some 85% in the survey said the most important pieces of information are the location of teams, vehicles, hydrants, and/or personnel. Location and communication with drone assets are also a requirement. Live-911 capability can enable first responders to hear the dispatcher speaking with a caller in real-time. “A dispatcher can push the 911 call through the TOUGHBOOK laptop to responders on route to a call,” says Clifford. “It is an emerging technology that integrates with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems.” privacy of HIPAA data  Device encryption and multi-factor authentication to secure the information, even ensuring the privacy of HIPAA data during an emergency medical call. Panasonic understands that fire and emergency departments need real-time information  Broadly speaking, Panasonic understands that fire and emergency departments need real-time information provided by rugged devices that can withstand the daily rigors of firefighting. In the survey, 85% of respondents said rugged computer devices are important, as opposed to using consumer devices in the harsh environment of firefighters and EMS personnel. (Conducted in April 2023, the Panasonic Connect survey generated 117 responses from individuals in the fire rescue industry.) Total cost of ownership  While first responders understand the importance of using ruggedized devices, purchasing decisions are not always made by those on the front lines. Sometimes it is someone else at the city or county level who decides to buy consumer-grade hardware, especially tablets, in lieu of a ruggedized laptop. Multiple problems can result, such as “battery swelling” and fire hazards if a battery overheats because of the high internal temperatures in a vehicle. Consumer devices are not designed to operate in temperatures above 100°F.  Cost is the main reason to opt for less expensive consumer-grade equipment, but the lower cost is an illusion. The math is very different if one considers the total cost of ownership (TCO), including any downtime resulting from a battery charge not lasting the entire shift, for example. Panasonic's TOUGHBOOK laptops First responders should work to ensure their voices are heard as purchasing decisions are made Ruggedized equipment is more resistant to being dropped. Panasonic's TOUGHBOOK laptops meet the MIL-STD-810H specification and ingress protection (IP) standards, IP65 and IP66, which test for ruggedness and resistance to solids and liquids. Additional features include enhanced connectivity and embedded antenna, non-breakable components, and all-day batteries. First responders should work to ensure their voices are heard as purchasing decisions are made. They should have a conversation with command-level employees and throughout the fire service to ensure equipment purchasing reflects the real needs on the front lines, says Claycomb. What's Ahead? What’s ahead for information technology on the front lines of firefighting? “There is an incredible opportunity ahead to integrate the TOUGHBOOK with fire vehicles,” says Marcus. He adds, “And the potential of using 5G will be limited only by our own creativity. Looking ahead, we can expect more artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and an incredible amount of data.”

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, in May 2022, a helmet camera recorded firefighters extinguishing a truck fire along I-94, catching every detail as sparks flew and firefighters hosed down the truck to suppress the blaze. Firefighters also hosed down the grass on the side of the freeway to put out hot spots and prevent a grass fire, MLive.com reported. The helmet-cam was part of a voluntary program that involves Ann Arbor firefighters wearing cameras when responding to active structure fires to capture video that can be used as a training tool, in order to better understand what went right and what went wrong. Video can also be released to the public to showcase how tax dollars are being spent. A focus on structure fires precludes any concerns about privacy. Helmet-cams used by firefighters Helmet-cams used by firefighters can provide a valuable tool for training and post-incident analysis Helmet-cams used by firefighters can provide a valuable tool for training and post-incident analysis. On the other hand, they could impact how a firefighter does his or her job or even violate privacy concerns and/or the public trust. While debate around the use of body-cams by law enforcement officers has mostly been settled, opinions still vary about the use of helmet-cams by firefighters. In one sense, the rules and regulations have not caught up with the technology, including smaller (and inexpensive) video cameras that can easily (and even discreetly) be mounted on a firefighter’s helmet. Some departments have banned use of helmet-cams, while others have sought to restrict and control their use. Still others haven’t given it much thought. Multiple perspectives for post-incident analysis An advantage of helmet-cams is to record video of the actions of officers and firefighters at an incident and to provide multiple perspectives for post-incident analysis. Critiquing performance is a learning tool to encourage continuous improvement. In case of an injury or line-of-duty death (LODD), helmet-cam footage provides an unblinking record of exactly what occurred. If a time element is being assessed, a helmet-cam video can display each activity along with a time display, thus eliminating the need for a stopwatch. Clear and time-marked audio recording In addition to video, helmet-cams can provide a clear and time-marked audio recording, not limited by radio-frequency interference. (Audio recordings are subject to additional privacy concerns in some jurisdictions.) A possible downside of using helmet-cams is to distract a firefighter from his or her duties or to narrow their focus to the detriment of a broad awareness of their surroundings. It is important that a firefighter not miss something that is happening at the periphery of his or her line-of-sight. Helmet-Cams can distract a firefighter’s attention Conscious of how they appear in a video recording, a firefighter might be more guarded in their actions or words; at the other extreme, they might be tempted to “show off” for the camera by taking greater risks to provide more dramatic footage. A firefighter with a helmet-cam might also become preoccupied with operating the camera to optimize video to the detriment of other concerns. Becoming fixated on the technology can distract a firefighter’s attention from the real job at hand. Creating a policy that addresses issues are helmet-cams use Departments should consider carefully the issues surrounding helmet-cams and create a policy Departments should consider carefully the issues surrounding helmet-cams and create a policy that addresses those issues. Fire service leaders may benefit from collaborating with local police leaders who have worked with body-cam video and know the possible evidentiary value of video that can be captured on the devices. Fire departments should be aware that any captured footage may have evidentiary value, if it relates to a crime or police internal affairs investigation. Unlike body-cams used by police, which download video to the department at the end of a shift and are covered by department policy, helmet-cams are less restricted and less well-managed. Firefighters may even own their cameras. Privacy concerns surrounding the use of helmet-cams Some fire departments, such as Houston, San Antonio, and San Francisco, have banned helmet-cams because of privacy concerns and worries about how a video might embarrass a department. Privacy concerns include the use of helmet-cams in medical calls, which make up most a firefighter’s daily responses. There should be rules that ensure that videos do not eventually make their way to Internet sites such as YouTube. In New Jersey, for example, Cathy’s Law (passed in 2012) restricts images and recordings at emergency scenes, such as motor vehicle accidents.

Among the ways, garments protect firefighters is by reducing the heat stress and discomfort created by the need to carry heavy gear. Making the garments more comfortable to wear means less physical stress. Garments also help to protect firefighters from the toxic elements in the fire environment. The extent to which plastic materials can generate toxic smoke when they burn has previously been ignored but is now better understood. Concerted effort to understand end user As a manufacturer of fibers used in firefighting garments, DuPont makes a concerted effort to understand the end user of their products; that is, the firefighter. They seek to keep the firefighter safer and to extend the time available to do his or her job safely. DuPont works with fabric and garment manufacturers to focus on minimizing the impact of the toxic environment. Firefighter’s awareness Multiple initiatives seek to make firefighters more aware of potential dangers and best practices Awareness by firefighters of the negative impact of toxic materials has increased substantially. Multiple initiatives seek to make firefighters more aware of potential dangers and best practices to avoid exposure to contamination. Organizations promoting greater awareness include firefighters’ unions, the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and the National Fallen Firefighters Association. Toxic smoke For example, testing confirms that toxic smoke often affects firefighters in the neck and jaw area, where sweat promotes absorption of smoke particles. A woven hood or baklava avoids the absorption, reflected in the NFPA Standard 1971, which makes particulate protection hoods mandatory. The Nomex Nano Flex hood increases the comfort of the gear. Avoiding toxic materials also includes no inclusion of per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) in garment materials themselves. Standards and Specifications Testing is an area of focus for DuPont, which has the capabilities to test the layered structures firefighters are wearing. One tool is the Thermo-Man, a fully instrumented mannequin that tests the likely burn injuries of flash-over fires. DuPont works with the NFPA, ISO, EN, and other standards committees to develop testing and certified standards to ensure the performance of firefighter garments. Fire gear is specified in each region according to a standard (minimum) performance. In many cases, garments out-perform the requirements. Other variables Other variables of firefighting garments include the fitting and weight Other variables of firefighting garments include the fitting and weight. A less expensive approach might yield a garment that sacrifices comfort. Geographic and climate differences matter, too. A firefighter in the North would prefer a different garment than in the South. Garments should be comfortable, lighter, and warmer in cold environments. On the topic of gender, garment makers offer female designs that are cut and shaped differently. Garment makers evaluate the weight of the assembly, how well it protects against the heat, and the comfort. DuPont works with garment makers to test various materials and how they perform in fire garments. The company works with firefighter consultants in the U.S. and Europe who help them understand the language of firefighters. Addressing Dangers of Toxic Materials Cleaning fire gear of toxic materials is a challenge related to garments. Toxic materials on fire gear returned to the fire station can also expose the station environment to danger. Changing logistics and processes are driving how gear is handled in the fire station environments. Some stations are designating black zones, gray zones, and white zones, depending on the level of contamination of the gear in those areas. Washing and drying More frequent washing of bulky, heavy gear helps to circumvent the impact of toxic materials, but repeated washing and drying can cause mechanical stress and resulting damage to a garment. DuPont collaborates with weaving mills and garment makers to develop fabrics and garments that stand up well to frequent washing.Toxic smoke particles and mandatory use of hoods on firefighters is translating into more washing. As time goes on, the washing and decontamination process will likely become more professionalized with laundry companies stepping in to wash and handle the garments. Fire stations are not well suited to cleaning these garments. Nomex Nano fiber Nomex Nano Flex is a non-woven material that retains toxic and cancer-causing particles Developed to address the growing problem of heat stress, DuPont’s Nomex Nano fiber is engineered to be thinner than other advanced flame-resistant materials. Nomex Nano Flex was developed to help make products like firefighter hoods more protective against particles without compromising comfort. Nomex Nano Flex is a non-woven material that retains toxic and cancer-causing particles, and creates a particulate barrier. It also protects the firefighter from outside heat while cooling the firefighter by evacuating body heat. Higher evaporation rate Nomex Nano Flex has a higher evaporation rate. For the same thermal protection performance (TPP), it also has higher total heat loss (THL). Combining protection, thermal performance and toughness, Nomex Xtreme Performance is the highest performance category of solutions for flame-resistant personal protective apparel. Feedback from Firefighters “If we have a new innovation, or want to share our developments, we go proactively to fire departments to ask: Will this help you or not?” says Alfons N. Held, Global Market Leader, Emergency Response, DuPont Personal Protection. There is a difference between lab testing and what firefighters experience in the real world. Alfons N. Held adds, “We seek to understand what they need, and approach ‘lighthouse’ fire departments for guidance.” In any country or jurisdiction, there are fire departments – ‘lighthouse’ departments – that set the trends and work to evaluate the gear. If someone in Florida is using certain gear, it might also work in Texas or Arizona. The protection level Areas of continuing research in terms of firefighter garments include making them more wash-durable The question is: What protection level do we need? Given that level, departments seek to balance comfort with performance. Ironically, of the firefighters who die every year, some two-thirds of the deaths are attributable to overexertion, while less than 10% is linked to the fire/heat. Areas of continuing research in terms of firefighter garments include making them more wash-durable, more comfortable (with higher evaporation) and more lightweight. Complex systems Garments can be complex systems; heavy turnout gear is a five-layer garment with each layer contributing to performance – the outer shell, the inner liner, a moisture membrane, and one or two thermal liners. Sometimes attention is more focused on the outer layer of the gear with less awareness of the other layers and how the entire system works together. Importance of station wear In fact, protection of the firefighter starts at the skin, so station wear is important. “In our view, looking at all the layers on the skin and outwards is important,” says Alfons N. Held, adding “Firefighters wear various materials that are not always optimal.” For example, a cotton undergarment might get wet from sweat, stay wet and not evaporate. Environmental impact is another concern among garment-makers. Can the materials be reused or recycled? Some countries in Europe ask that manufacturers take back garments after they are used.     New Garments, New Needs A special need is development of new garments that can perform at the wildland urban interface (WUI), where catastrophic wildland fires encroach on residential areas. Design of gear for wildland firefighting has been lighter and does not include breathing systems. When fires reach residential areas, gear needs change. Wildland firefighters are not equipped to enter a structure fire and do not have adequate protection against carcinogens. New gear designs are needed that address both environments.

Located in East London's healthcare hub, Newham University Hospital currently boasts a top-tier network of Advanced MxPro 5 panels, ensuring fire safety and peace of mind for patients, staff, and visitors.  fire alarm network overhaul Newham University Hospital serves as a vital healthcare facility offering A&E, maternity, and specialist services. The building required a significant overhaul of its fire alarm network without interfering with the hospital’s round-the-clock operations.   The process involved replacing the existing network with Advanced MxPro 5 panels. upgrade with panel installation The upgrade also needed to take into account future enhancements planned over the next three years Comprehensive rewiring was undertaken by the installation team at M&G Fire Protection, and additional panels were installed to meet the stringent requirements of the fire officers. This upgrade also needed to take into account future enhancements planned over the next three years, so required meticulous planning and execution.  A total of 97 nodes were installed, covering more than 10,000 devices including 11 eight-loop panels, 10 four-loop panels, 8 two-loop panels, 44 one-loop panels, and 13 fault-tolerant remote display terminals.  multi-protocol switch-over capabilities The fire system needed to be integrated with a wide range of building management systems, requiring complex cause-and-effect planning and programming to comply with HTM0503 standards governing fire safety in the design of healthcare premises. M&G Fire Protection leveraged Advanced's cutting-edge solutions, citing its versatile multi-protocol switch-over capabilities and intuitive cause-and-effect configuration. With a proven track record in deploying Advanced systems, M&G's choice was clear for this intricate upgrade.  phased approach M&G minimized downtime and maintained system functionality throughout the upgrade Despite numerous hurdles, by adopting a phased approach and working in collaboration with hospital staff, M&G minimized downtime and maintained system functionality throughout the upgrade. Due to the success of this project, M&G was recognized with the 'Installation Company of the Year' award at this year's FSM Awards.  cause-and-effect configuration Steve Middleton, Director, of M&G Fire Protection, stated, “We opted for Advanced panels due to their flexible cause-and-effect configuration, which makes setup, testing, and maintenance a breeze." He adds, "The intuitive display makes the panels very easy to use, and the integration with external services via the BMS card is straightforward and highly beneficial. Additionally, the network setup options and speed are impressive, reinforcing our confidence in Advanced's solutions.”  flexible and versatile solutions  Salvy Vittozzi, Advanced’s Regional Sales Manager for the South East, said "Advanced's fire safety solutions were ideal for Newham University Hospital due to their robust capabilities and ease of integration." He adds, "The flexibility and reliability of our systems ensured that, even with the complex requirements and round-the-clock operations of a major healthcare facility, we could deliver a seamless and effective fire safety solution." excellence and collaboration Salvy Vittozzi continues, "This project highlights our commitment to providing advanced technology that meets the highest standards and adapts to the evolving needs of critical environments like hospitals.”  Completed on schedule and with ample room for future expansion, the project underscores both Advanced's commitment to delivering cutting-edge fire safety solutions and M&G's dedication to excellence and collaboration.  MxPro 5 MxPro 5 can be used in single-loop, single-panel format, or easily configured into high-speed networks MxPro 5 is the fire industry’s pioneering multiprotocol fire panel and is certified by FM Approvals to EN 54 Parts 2 and 4. It offers customers a choice of four detector protocols and a completely open installer network, backed up by free training and support. MxPro 5 can be used in single-loop, single-panel format, or easily configured into high-speed networks of up to 200 panels covering huge areas. Ease of installation and configuration, as well as its wide range of peripheral options, make MxPro 5 customizable to almost any application.  false alarm management capabilities The MxPro 5’s stand-out false alarm management capabilities are available as standard. AlarmCalm delivers unprecedented control of verification and investigation delays. By dividing sites up into virtual false alarm ‘building areas’ independent of fire zones, much more precise control of false alarm management and reduction strategies can be achieved that exactly fit the needs of each part of a building. An optional AlarmCalm button allows trained occupants to verify if they believe a local fire signal is a false alarm too – a highly effective way of eliminating unwanted alarms.  BMS/graphics interface Multiple interfaces can be connected to the network catering to sites requiring control from several graphical PCs The MxPro 5 BMS/graphics interface allows BMS systems and graphical control PCs to be easily integrated with the MxPro 5 series of fire control panels and remote terminals using a simple RS232 connection. Multiple interfaces can be connected to the network catering to sites requiring control from several graphical PCs. As a world pioneer in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced products are specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced portfolio The Advanced portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management, and reduction systems, as well as emergency lighting. Advanced is owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC – a global group of life-saving technology companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day.

Cygnus’ world-first 100% wireless and EN 54 certified SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm solution has been installed at the Contractor’s Village at Heysham Power Station 1 in Lancashire, providing reliable life-saving fire protection equipment in a challenging industrial location. Manchester-based installer - Marlowe Fire & Security worked together with its client, Equans, a provider of technical services, FM, regeneration and energy services, on the project. Marlowe Fire & Security selected Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro solution having successfully worked with the Cygnus team on several projects previously. Challenging Setting Contractor’s Village consists of twenty cabins, each equipped with a Detector and Manual Call Point The Contractor’s Village consists of twenty cabins, each equipped with a Detector and Manual Call Point, connected to a SmartNet-Pro Control Panel in one of the nearest cabins to the main site, alongside an interface for the signal to the main site. Simon Hilton, Systems Account Manager, Marlowe Fire & Security, said "We chose SmartNet-Pro thanks to its proven reliability, robustness, and impressive installation speed. This project presented quite a challenge due to the amount of metal in the cabin construction, which would cause issues if installing a wired system, and means we needed a product with robust signal strength." He adds, "Thanks to SmartNet’s 100% wireless capabilities, it ensured minimal disruption to the site and was quickly deployable. We’ve used Cygnus products before in similar settings and we’ve always been impressed with the outcome and this project was no exception." SmartNet fire detection and alarm system Heysham Power Station 1 experiences intermittent outages for maintenance purposes. SmartNet runs on wireless radio devices as part of a robust, self-forming and self-healing mesh network technology, in which the infrastructure nodes connect dynamically to provide highly efficient and robust network performance. This ensures that the SmartNet fire detection and alarm system can keep operating through these outages for the continuous on-site safety of workers. Being 100% wireless, SmartNet not only reduces cabling complexities that would arise trying to install through metal, but also provides a scalable solution for future needs. Successful Results Simon Hilton commended the fast responsiveness of the Cygnus team, stating, "The support from the Cygnus team was exceptional. They were always on hand to assist us, ensuring a smooth and successful installation." Simon also highlighted the value of the Cygnus Academy one-day training session and becoming a Cygnus Certified Installer, commenting "The team found this hugely beneficial as it combined both theoretical and hands-on practical training to enable them to complete a successful installation."  The Cygnus Academy The Cygnus Academy presents a high-specification, in-person training program, that can be carried out in two bespoke locations. Installers gain understanding and attain certification for installing SmartNet. Geoff Copsey, EDF Energy, expressed satisfaction with the installation, stating, "The implementation of Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro system at Heysham Power Station 1 has provided us with a reliable and robust fire detection solution. We are impressed with the system’s performance and appreciate the peace of mind it brings to our operations."

On 03.06.2024, ZIEGLER delivered an MLF to the fire department of Donrburg-Camburg. Their special features include: ALPAS® superstructure of the latest generation Z-Control of the latest generation – easy operation Z-Vision LED ambient lighting Roller shutter boxes on the roof for a largest possible loading volume

Liverpool's Unity Theatre, a champion of new writing, social justice, and community engagement, boasts a rich history intertwined with the building it calls home. Founded in 1983 by unemployed actors and writers, the company initially resided in a converted warehouse. By 2003, they found their permanent home on Hope Street – a former synagogue built in 1957. This unique space, once a place of worship seating 450 serves as a vibrant theatre and a living testament to a bygone era of radical theatre. Unity Theatre The name "Unity" itself reflects a legacy. It's a connection to a national movement that significantly impacted British theatre and politics. The story begins in the 1930s with the birth of Merseyside Left Theatre, which later became Merseyside Unity Theatre in 1944. Renowned for their experimental and politically charged productions, this company's final act was securing the Hope Place building and transforming the former synagogue into the thriving Unity Theatre visitors know. Unity Theatre thrives as a registered charity, producing a mix of professional and amateur productions while fostering community engagement through workshops and mentoring schemes. Challenge: emergency lighting system It also relies on specialist companies to help with some of the more complex upkeep of the building, such as fire safety An organization such as this relies heavily on the generosity of private benefactors and support from arts funding to keep the lights on and the doors open. It also relies on specialist companies to help with some of the more complex upkeep of the building, such as fire safety. Realizing that their emergency lighting system was rapidly aging, Technical Manager - Xenia Bayer knew this would be a massive project to undertake, and financially impossible with ever-tightening theatre budgets. FIREscape Nepto system This was when hope flickered back on. Xenia Bayer said, "While exploring options and regulations with the ABTT (Association of British Theatre Technicians), I stumbled upon a brochure by Hochiki detailing their newly launched FIREscape Nepto system." She adds, "It felt like a dream come true for our theatre. The features were perfect for this environment." Some of the key features of FIREscape Nepto which appealed to this theatrical mind were: Intelligent and Self-Sufficient: No more tedious lamp replacements or manual system checks. The system runs self-tests, stores reports, and alerts the owners to any maintenance needs. Energy Efficient: The low voltage system promised significant energy savings, a win for both budget and the environment. Adjustable Light Levels: This can be a game-changer for performance spaces. There is regulatory compliance for light levels, but also the ability to achieve complete "blackout" for scene changes and actor entrances/exits. FIREscape Nepto can offer both. a complete replacement system Xenia Bayer continues, "It seemed too good to be true. Reaching out to Hochiki, I hesitantly inquired about sponsorship possibilities, offering site visits for interested parties. Thankfully, after email exchanges and a site visit, Hochiki offered an incredible solution: a complete replacement system." The team at Hochiki worked closely with the installation company - Grainger Fire and Security, experts with over 40 years of experience in the industry. new to-the-market emergency lighting system Hochiki initially reached out to the company’s Managing Director (MD), David Wardman Hochiki initially reached out to the company’s Managing Director (MD), David Wardman, to ask if they would like to get involved in this local charitable project and they jumped at the chance. David Wardman said, "We’ve worked with Hochiki products for several years, always successfully, so the opportunity to work install this new to-the-market emergency lighting system as well as help keep this local hub of the community open was something we were keen to get involved in." easy to install Heading on the project - Will Taylor comments on the ease of installation, stating "Hochiki products are famously easy to install, and FIREscape Nepto was no different. The theatre is quite a large space and so we initially scoped 5 to 6 days for the installation plus commission." He adds, "In the end, it only took 4 days, plus a day for commissioning. We were also able to retrofit using a lot of the old cabling to save on waste, and the new system enabled us to fault find any issues with that old cable so we could replace it if needed." energy savings  Xenia Bayer continues, "The communication with both the Grainger team and Hochiki throughout has been brilliant, we were able to work around shows all the while ensuring everyone’s safety." She stated, "The new system is so much more aesthetically pleasing and saves so much space compared to the previous bulky system. The best outcome is that over the year, based on the old system running costs, we predict we’ll be able to save almost 40 times the energy which equates to just less than £900 in savings a year."  cost savings Xenia Bayer adds, "In our world that is an incredible amount of money which we will be able to plough back into the theatre and the many projects we run for our local and wider theatrical communities." Overjoyed and incredibly grateful, the Unity Theatre looks forward to welcoming artists, communities, and audiences under the safe and efficient glow of the FIREscape Nepto system. Transform day-to-day operations  Xenia Bayer concludes, "This new system won't just replace our old one – it will transform our day-to-day operations and ensure we can continue to shine a light on the arts for years to come, thanks to Hochiki – the show can go on."

Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc., and a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation, announced ADM Aéroports de Montréal has taken delivery of five Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® 6x6 ARFF vehicles. The vehicles will support emergency operations at two of the province’s largest airfields, YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport – which now serves over 21 million travelers annually – and YMX International Aerocity of Mirabel.  ADM’s new ARFF vehicles ADM’s new ARFF vehicles were sold by Commercial Emergency Equipment Co., in cooperation with L’Arsenal in Quebec province.  Aftermarket service and parts for the vehicles will be provided locally by L’Arsenal. ADM Aéroports de Montréal’s equipment  “This project represents one of the largest single non-military ARFF sales in Canadian aviation history,” said Jack Bermingham, Business Unit Director for Oshkosh Airport Products. He adds, “ADM’s retirement of a fleet of existing Strikers for this replacement order clearly demonstrates the ongoing trust they have in Oshkosh. Alongside the Commercial Emergency Equipment and L’Arsenal teams, we are proud to continue this long-standing relationship by once again providing pioneering edge ARFF vehicles, and dedicated service and support from our dealers and support network.” Drive to modernize ADM Aéroports de Montréal’s equipment “The acquisition of these new vehicles is part of a drive to modernize ADM Aéroports de Montréal’s equipment and will enable us to respond more quickly and efficiently to incidents requiring firefighting services. We would like to thank our long-time partner Oshkosh for its support and the quality of these high-performance Strikers,” said Stéphane Larin, Director, Security, Operations and Fire Department at ADM Aéroports de Montréal. Features of Striker 6x6 ARFF vehicles Three of the five Striker vehicles feature a Snozzle® high-reach extendable turret Three of the five Striker vehicles feature a Snozzle® high-reach extendable turret, and two feature standard roof turrets. All five vehicles are equipped with low-attack bumper turrets. Other features of ADM’s new Striker 6x6 ARFF vehicles include: Industry-renowned modular cab design TAK-4® all-wheel independent suspension Seating capacity for four Scania DC16 V8 670HP Tier 4 engine Water capacity: 12,500 L Foam capacity: 1,600 L Dry chemical capacity: 227 kg 10kW Onan Generator Eco-EFP™ Foam Measurement System Electronic Foam Proportioning System complete package solution for ADM  Jamie Zimmerman, Sales Manager and Manager of Airport Products at Commercial Emergency Equipment spoke about the benefits of a branch network supporting ARFF procurement, and aftersales support.  He stated, “Commercial and L’Arsenal proposed a ‘complete package’ solution for ADM comprised of a market-renowned apparatus, unmatched parts and service support from our nationwide branch network, and complete product knowledge, training, and factory support.”

In the fast-paced and demanding world of construction, safety isn't just a priority; it's a fundamental necessity. Every day, thousands of hardworking individuals put their lives on the line to build cities and communities.  Twiceme understands the critical importance of not only providing reliable protection, but also offering innovative solutions that empower both workers and rescuers alike. Partnering for Progress Its partnership model is rooted in the belief that safety should never be compromised. By collaborating with construction helmet brands, Twiceme integrates state-of-the-art technology into its products, elevating safety standards for everyone.  Its partners, renowned for their commitment to excellence, recognize the value we bring to their customers: enhanced protection coupled with advanced functionality. Climbing-style helmets Studson has become the #1 choice for contractors in the USA, and Twiceme is part of that journey Take Studson, for example, who started in 2019 intending to revolutionize the construction industry through climbing-style helmets. An industry that had been stagnant for a century. They’ve become the #1 choice for contractors in the USA, and Twiceme is part of that journey. As Twiceme onboarded close to 450+ contractors in Q4 of 2023, most of them with Studson helmets at the site, this demonstrates the tremendous growth they’ve achieved. Anonymized data insights Through the partnership model, Twiceme provides value to brands through anonymized data insights, assisting them in adding innovations to their equipment through easy integration, and more. It can also reach a much higher scale in the value we provide to contractors and workers at the site compared to if it sells directly to consumers. This is why partnering with world-pioneering brands has been the sole focus, and it's rapidly transforming the construction industry. Bringing Value Beyond the Surface From continuous gear monitoring to instant alerts, the solutions are designed to empower individuals But the mission extends far beyond product enhancement. Twiceme is dedicated to delivering tangible value to contractors and workers, ensuring that every innovation serves a practical purpose.  From continuous gear monitoring to instant alerts, the solutions are designed to empower individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions and effectively mitigate risks. Privacy Concerns Solved Twiceme initially began as an integrated Medical ID because rescuers have sought a solution for decades that allows them to understand more about an injured person as they arrive at the accident site. However, privacy laws like GDPR and HIPAA have made this challenging. These laws serve a real purpose in protecting individuals' medical information and more. Through Twiceme, by storing this information locally in the equipment, one can provide this information without compromising personal data or risking it being hacked. Addressing compromised data Also, users have made it easy to delete the locally stored information, and reupload it the next time Sometimes, though, people worry that changing gear might leave their information vulnerable. Or that if they leave their gear, someone can scan it and access all their personal information. Sure, that’s true. Just as someone can rob a user of a wallet or car keys. Because users have to tap the equipment to access the information, rarely, they don’t notice someone scanning them. Also, users have made it easy to delete the locally stored information, and reupload it the next time they are using the equipment. Solving More Issues As time progressed, Twiceme developed additional features that protect workers before and after an incident. Before an incident, it assists them in monitoring their equipment through regular checks and even through product inspection directly within Twiceme, ensuring compliance at all times with laws.  After an accident, Twiceme offers all the critical alerting and identification functionalities needed to take action as a bystander and become a helper. Reduced costs Through Twiceme, one can likely substantially decrease these costs because users are more prepared But it’s not just that Twiceme allows workers to be more prepared in case of an accident. The construction industry is plagued by high litigation costs and the consequences of accidents. Through Twiceme, one can likely substantially decrease these costs because users are more prepared before an accident even occurs. This means that one can shift investment into preventive measures instead of reactive ones. Continuous Innovation As Twiceme is a digital product, nothing is holding it back in terms of opportunities to provide more value, both to partners and workers. Such as what it did with its partner Guardian Fall, where Twiceme developed a comprehensive product inspection feature for fall protection harnesses. All within Twiceme and specifically made for competent persons. And later in 2024, Twiceme latching on to functionalities that might transform how contractors use Twiceme daily. More on this later this spring, but to give a hint, it will allow workers to upload all their documents, training records, certifications, and more to their gear. Plus, Twiceme adding even more functionalities for safety managers and competent persons. Empowering Helpers Twiceme ensures that solutions not only meet but exceed the expectations of those on the front lines At the heart of Twiceme lies a deep-seated commitment to those who safeguard communities: the rescuers. The technologies are engineered not only to protect but also to facilitate rapid response and rescue operations. By forging close ties with rescue teams and first responders, Twiceme ensures that solutions not only meet but exceed the expectations of those on the front lines. That's why Twiceme works with over 400 rescue organizations around the world to drive awareness and build a knowledge base of what brings value in real-life scenarios. A Real Scenario Where Twiceme was Needed Interview with Jacob: “I work as a service technician in ventilation and was there to carry out a job when I learned that one of the people on the site had fallen from a beam. The situation seemed serious, and it was difficult to find out who the person in question was, which shift he belonged to, and whether he even spoke Swedish - Foreign subcontractors are very common." "It all resulted in an ambulance being called and colleagues while waiting for the ambulance, having to do their best to communicate with the injured man who did not seem to respond to calls." Addressing call responses "Afterwards, it turned out that the person in question was a foreign worker working for one of the subcontractors, and that his entire family was in his home country." "Thankfully, he seemed to have fully recovered. In retrospect, I think it would have been good to know more about the man, he was after all a colleague, and he didn't speak Swedish and therefore might have had difficulty responding to calls. I also think about his family, if they had time to get worried before they heard anything from him.” Conclusion: A Safer Tomorrow Starts Today In the ever-evolving landscape of construction safety, Twiceme stands as a beacon of innovation and reliability. Twiceme can't prevent accidents from occurring. But what it can do is help those who will help users if an accident happens. Getting the right help quickly after an accident can be a life or death difference. By turning a helmet or piece of equipment into a source of information, Twiceme provides bystanders with the answers they need to make the best decisions when it’s needed the most. By simply tapping the Twiceme symbol with a smartphone, the first person on the scene can access an incapacitated user's uploaded profile, which may include fields such as medical history, personal identifiers, ICE contacts, insurance information, and exact coordinates.

Thermal imaging is an advantageous tool for firefighters on the frontline. As thermal cameras have become more compact and affordable, their availability has expanded, along with their usefulness. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How does thermal imaging serve the needs of firefighters and how is it changing?  

New tools and technologies are emerging that augment the efforts of the fire market to prevent and fight fires. Modern firefighting is benefiting from an ongoing sea change in technological capabilities, spanning equipment, electronic components, greater connectivity and firefighter monitoring, to name just a few. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What technologies will have the greatest impact on the fire industry in 2021? 

Welcome to our Expert Panel Roundtable, a new feature of TheBigRedGuide.com. We will be asking timely questions about the fire market and seeking out experts in the field to provide responses. Our goal is to promote a useful exchange of information on a variety of topics and to create a forum for discussion of important issues facing the fire service and market. For our first question, we look to the year ahead and ask our panelists: What trends are likely to change the fire market in 2020?