Beyond fire safety: How Martyn’s Law is redefining risk in public buildings

Mike Hobbs, Product Specification and Solutions Manager at Apollo Fire Detectors, outlines vital security measures for public venues following Martyn’s Law

Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, introduced in response to the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, represents a significant shift in how public and commercial property is expected to manage safety and security risks.

This article will outline the key principles of Martyn’s Law and explore what it means in practice for building management, emergency procedures and evacuation planning.

What does Martyn’s Law do?

The aim of the law is to ensure that people responsible for certain buildings can manage the movement and safety of anyone inside if there is a terrorist incident or any other serious situation, such as civil unrest or violence.

It recognises that in these cases, a typical fire evacuation might not be the right response.

The person or organisation in control of a building must be able to direct people clearly and safely, whether that means getting them out (evacuation), moving them to a safer area inside (invacuation) or keeping them in place (lockdown).

What a site needs will depend entirely on its type and use, as schools, colleges, entertainment venues, political offices and other sites will all have different requirements.

What falls within the scope of Martyn’s Law?

Not every building will need an electronic system, but every building must have a plan for how people will be moved in an emergency.

Premises that satisfy the following four criteria fall within scope of the Act:

  1. It has at least one building
  2. It is mainly used for a public-facing purpose such as retail, hospitality or sports
  3. It can reasonably expect 200 or more people to be present at one time
  4. Or it is a qualifying ticketed public event expecting 800+ people

Typical sites might include:

  • Schools and colleges
  • Theatres and cinemas
  • Stadiums
  • Sports halls
  • Hotels and restaurants
  • Shopping malls
  • Places of worship
  • Hospitals

What needs to be implemented and who’s in charge?

There needs to be agreement with the emergency services about who is in charge during an incident.

Whether it be a senior fire officer or senior police officer taking command, they will expect to see a clear plan in place.

How will emergency procedures be activated?

What a site needs to do to activate its emergency procedures will vary.

Factors that influence the plan include:

• The size of the building

• How many buildings are on the site

• How many people use the building

This should be assessed alongside the existing Fire Risk Assessment (FRA), which should help shape a workable and practical strategy.

Steve Dilloway, Veritas Fire Support Services, says of the Act: “Martyn’s Law is about realistic preparedness, not creating unnecessary complexity.

What this guidance sets out well is the importance of having a clear, rehearsed plan that allows people to be moved safely – whether that’s evacuation, invacuation or lockdown – depending on the nature of the incident.

“From a Risk Assessment perspective, we are looking for proportionate, well‑considered measures that work alongside existing fire safety arrangements and put people’s safety first.”

How will it work alongside existing fire detection and alarm systems?

Most sites already have fire detection and alarm (FD&A) systems and many of these could be adapted to support the new requirements.

Because there is no formal standard yet for Martyn’s Law or terrorism‑related systems (at the time of writing BSI are looking at a proposal for a new British Standard to cover “Audio systems for emergency communication”), it is likely that standard FD&A equipment, modified to suit the purpose, may be used.

The lack of a dedicated accreditation for terrorism‑related functions shouldn’t be viewed as a problem.

If the equipment is certified for fire use, it can generally be adapted safely for this.

What may not be appropriate in most cases is installing an entirely separate system just for this purpose.

Running a second system alongside the fire alarm would be costly and unnecessary, especially where budgets are tight.

A modified FD&A system is likely to be acceptable in most cases.

How to plan for success

1. Assess the building and people in it

The assessment of the building and the people in it is vital for success.

This must consider numbers of occupants, disabilities and the specific safety issues on the site.

Systems must work together where needed.

2. Staff training is also vital for success

The starting point for any proposal should be understanding what staff need to do and how they will be trained to respond.

Training should be at the centre of everything.

3. Use of technology

 Technology can help to control and manage an incident, but it’s important the information provided is clear and accessible.

Voice sounders, for example, may not work well where language barriers exist or where people have impairments that make loud or sudden noises difficult to cope with.

4. Accessibility and Inclusivity

Disability considerations will be a major part of planning.

Some disabilities may not be immediately obvious, and some conditions, such as autism or PTSD, can be affected by noise or confusion.

The plan must consider all special needs provisions for anyone using the building.

This is why using a third-party certified risk assessor is recommended.

Their expertise is in identifying what might be missing rather than just the obvious issues.

5. Infrastructure improvements

In some cases, improvements to fire doors or compartmentation may be needed to create a “safe area”.

For example, upgrading from FD30 to FD60 doors may offer better physical protection, not just improved fire resistance.

Access control, movement through the building and both internal and external CCTV should also be considered.

A related point linked to fire risk assessments is to ensure that any outside storage doesn’t increase the risk of arson or allow someone to create a fire that distracts the emergency services and increases the danger to first responders.

Successful protection systems

Using existing protection systems is usually the best and most cost‑effective option.

A thorough review involving all stakeholders – looking at fire and security arrangements together – is essential.

Above all, staff training is the most important element.

Training must remain flexible, reviewed regularly and updated whenever anything changes, such as building layout, occupancy or fire safety requirements.

Martyn’s Law places a clear responsibility on those in control of premises to manage risk and plan effective responses to emergencies.

By strengthening expectations around building control and evacuation, the legislation aims to improve preparedness and protect occupants should an incident occur.

Martyn’s Law represents a shift towards joined‑up thinking between fire safety, security and building management.

As this article highlights, the most effective approach is often to adapt and enhance existing fire detection and alarm systems rather than install separate, standalone solutions.

Combined with strong staff training and inclusive planning, this delivers a practical and cost‑effective way for organisations to meet their responsibilities.

Want to know more? Get in touch with us on martynslaw@apollo-fire.com

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Designing for SFFF: The proportioning challenge with Firemiks

Per Aredal of Firemiks AB explores proportioning challenges in transitioning to fluorine-free firefighting foams

The phase-out of fluorinated foams and the move towards synthetic fluorine-free firefighting concentrates (SFFF) is one of the most significant material shifts the fire protection industry has navigated in decades.

For those specifying or operating fixed suppression systems, the change raises an important and often underestimated question – not just which concentrate to use, but whether the proportioning system in place can handle what comes next.

Per Aredal, International Sales Director at Firemiks AB, makes the case that getting the proportioning system right is where future-proofing the installation begins.

Water driven volumetric proportioning

At its core, a water driven volumetric pump proportioner is ingeniously self-regulating.

The system relies on positive displacement for both its water motor and concentrate pump.

The water motor – driven entirely by the flow of extinguishing water – powers the concentrate pump, which injects the correct amount of firefighting concentrate into the water stream.

The dosing ratio is determined by the volumetric relationship between the two components, requiring no electricity, engines or power take-off (PTO) units.

This autonomy has direct operational consequences.

Start-up and commissioning are straightforward, and the system is less susceptible to the failure modes that come with dependence on external power or fuel.

Installation can be decentralised (placed close to the hazard) which can meaningfully reduce response times in demanding environments.

Four decades of refinement

The FIREMIKS system is rooted in the volumetric water motor design first developed in the late 1970s by the grandfather of the company’s current management.

What began as an innovative mechanical concept has been continuously refined over more than four decades, yielding a wide operating range across both flow and pressure.

The self-regulating nature of the system is one of its defining characteristics.

It accurately tracks flow changes and oscillations in real time, remaining largely unaffected by pressure variations across its operating range.

A single unit can cover varying fire area sizes or service multiple simultaneous fires and does so without requiring recalibration when conditions or concentrates change.

The concentrate storage arrangement adds further flexibility.

An atmospheric tank configuration makes it easy to inspect concentrate levels, take samples, and replenish or swap tanks even during active firefighting operations.

Fixed and mobile tanks – including IBC containers or tank trailers – can be combined for uninterrupted operation.

For installations requiring periodic performance verification, the optional Dosing/Return Valve (DRV) with dual flow meters allows accurate testing without releasing any concentrate to the environment, reducing both cost and disposal concerns.

Certified for variable viscosity

Perhaps the most significant aspect of the FIREMIKS range is its FM approval classification as a “Variable Viscosity Pump Proportioner.” Under FM Standard 5130 (May 2021), eighteen 3% models across seven flow sizes – 450, 800, 1800, 2400, 4000, 6000 and 8000 lpm – have been certified to maintain accurate dosing across a very wide viscosity range: from 1 cP up to 7,288 cP at a shear rate of 5 1/s.

This is particularly relevant as the industry transitions to SFFF concentrates, many of which are non-Newtonian and exhibit higher viscosity than their AFFF predecessors.

Unlike bladder tank systems, which are typically designed around a narrow viscosity window and require recalibration if the concentrate or its properties change, a FIREMIKS unit does not need recalibration when a different concentrate is introduced, provided its viscosity falls within the certified envelope.

The shear rate curves approved for our different FM-approved models are as follows:

Shear rate 1/sViscosity (cP)
450 & 800 lpm1800, 2400 & 4000 lpm6000 & 8000 lpm
5393464227288
10214135453942
20115719452110
50529882959
100302497533
60080128132

If a concentrate’s shear rate curve falls at or below the figures for a given unit size, it will perform within approved dosing tolerances, including the latest generation of fluorine-free concentrates.

For installations requiring flows above 8,000 lpm, two units can be configured in parallel, either on a base skid or in a “double-decker” arrangement, to reach 12,000 or 16,000 lpm.

Why proportioning system choice matters

The shift to SFFF is not a simple one-for-one swap.

It involves regulatory compliance, environmental assessment, logistics and equipment compatibility – each link in a long chain.

Firemiks focuses specifically on one critical link: ensuring that the proportioner can deliver the correct dosing rate regardless of viscosity, within approved limits.

The practical implications are straightforward.

A variable viscosity system means no need to replace or recalibrate the proportioner when switching concentrate suppliers or brands.

It means minimal downtime if a change becomes necessary for operational, commercial or regulatory reasons.

And it means reliable performance even as concentrate viscosity shifts due to ageing, temperature fluctuations or batch variation – provided the concentrate remains within the approved viscosity envelope.

For specifiers and end users planning installations that may span several decades, this is not a trivial consideration.

The concentrate landscape is still evolving, and future-proofing an installation against that uncertainty is a sound engineering decision.

Matching the pump to the application

One further differentiator in the FIREMIKS range is the availability of two concentrate pump types – piston and gear – each suited to distinct application profiles and viscosity characteristics.

Piston pump models use a reciprocating mechanism in which the plunger draws in and then expels concentrate in each revolution, taking the fluid from zero to maximum shear rate twice per cycle.

For low-viscosity or mildly non-Newtonian concentrates this works well, and the piston configuration performs particularly effectively in applications with low start-up flows relative to maximum flow, such as sprinkler systems.

The wide operating range makes it a versatile choice across many installation types.

Gear pump models take a different approach.

Counter-rotating gears generate a smooth, consistent flow without agitation, which makes them well-suited to handling very high-viscosity fluids -particularly those that exceed the shear rate envelope verified by FM approval for the piston pump models.

This characteristic makes gear pumps the preferred option for deluge systems, large fire monitor installations, and any application operating at the higher end of the maximum flow range.

When advising clients, Firemiks prioritises understanding the concentrate type and viscosity alongside flow and pressure requirements before recommending a pump type – ensuring that the specified system performs reliably across its full operating life.

Per Aredal is International Sales Director at Firemiks AB, with more than 35 years of experience in the design, production and global delivery of water driven volumetric pump proportioners. He can be reached at per.aredal@firemiks.com, +46 76 139 70 34, or via www.firemiks.com.

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Redefining aspirating smoke detection: How Securiton is reshaping ASD system design

Securiton outlines how its ASD 2000 provides aspirating smoke detection with advanced sensors, real-time monitoring and flexible installation for demanding applications

In environments where even a brief interruption can translate into financial loss, operational disruption or risk to human life, early and reliable smoke detection is non‑negotiable.

Aspirating smoke detection (ASD) has long been the gold standard for early warning fire detection.

Now, that standard just got higher as Swiss ASD specialist Securiton launches a revolutionary new device family.

With the launch of the SecuriSmoke ASD 2000, fire safety installers now have access to a generational leap forward in ASD technology.

It blends digital innovation, Swiss engineering, enhanced sensitivity and practical installer‑friendly design.

After five years of intensive development, the ASD 2000 doesn’t simply improve on its predecessor, the ASD 535; it redefines what a modern ASD system can be.

Digital‑first by design

One of the most transformative advances in the ASD 2000 is its digital‑first architecture.

For the first time in a SecuriSmoke product, commissioning, configuration, diagnostics and operation are all managed through an intuitive mobile application.

This approach was at the heart of the brief first given to the development team five years ago.

This brief, focused not on hardware but on a seamless user journey, required a mobile app as the primary interaction interface alongside intuitive design that reduces complexity and saves time throughout the design, installation and commissioning process.

For installers, this means fewer tools, straightforward implementation and dramatically simplified workflows.

The app provides real‑time feedback, guided steps and secure digital licensing, making configuration not only efficient but verifiably reliable.

For operators, the app extends day‑to‑day convenience.

Status checks, diagnostics, performance monitoring and system events are accessible immediately and securely, supporting faster decisions and proactive maintenance.

Five decades of expertise built into a new platform

The ASD 2000 is not a facelift or incremental update.

It is a from‑scratch reinvention built on a foundation of proven Securiton knowledge.

Designed in Switzerland by a team of 60+ engineers and backed by over 50 years of ASD expertise, it incorporates the trusted DNA and best features of the ASD 535 and is extensively field‑tested across multiple installations and environments.

The unit is manufactured in a highly automated German plant for consistent quality

This heritage ensures that while the device is technologically new, it inherits the robustness, reliability and longevity associated with the SecuriSmoke brand – attributes highly valued in mission‑critical environments such as healthcare, public infrastructure and industrial facilities.

However, the international engineering team tasked with developing the ASD 2000 soon found that in building a brand-new device, many step-changes in performance were possible.

Raising the bar

Given the chance to build a device incorporating all the latest technologies, an already strong platform has become a world-beating one.

Every key performance indicator, from sensitivity and airflow monitoring to fan power and system scale, has been upgraded.

With support for up to four independent channels and two detection chambers, the ASD 2000 dramatically expands installation flexibility.

The system can monitor complex environments, large zones or multi‑compartment spaces from a single device.

The detection chamber has undergone a redesign from scratch, doubling the maximum sensitivity to 0.001% obs/m.

At the same time, the maximum obscuration at which it can operate is also raised by 50%, to 30 obs/m.

Combined with a 1000 pa aspiration engine, this means the ASD 2000 can operate larger and more intricate pipe networks, with the device situated up to 150 m from the furthest hole.

This gives designers and installers more flexibility than ever and allows for ASD installations that are efficient and tailored to modern end-customer needs.

The system limits of the ASD are suitably impressive: up to 62 sampling holes are possible from a single device while still meeting the highest-Class A EN 54 standard for Very Early Warning Fire Detection.

The figures for Class B and C level detection are 160 and 240 respectively.

For data centres – where early detection and redundancy are vital – multi‑channel capability enables precise monitoring of hot aisles, cold aisles, underfloor voids and overhead spaces using fewer detector units.

Warehousing and logistics centres benefit from the ability to cover high‑bay racking and large open volumes without compromising airflow velocity or sensitivity.

Hospitals and public buildings can monitor diverse areas such as patient rooms, server rooms, lift shafts and public corridors simultaneously.

Internal 3‑stage filtering for lower maintenance

Maintenance is an unavoidable part of ASD system management, but the ASD 2000 significantly reduces the burden thanks to its redesigned airflow path and a 3‑stage internal filter.

The detection chamber now sits inside a centrifugal filter that keeps dust and debris away from sensitive electronics.

Before that, an easily field-accessible coarse filter removes larger particles and insects.

The third in-built filter is an electronic one, enhancing reliability by smoothing out anomalous readings caused by occasional dust particles in the chamber.

This means the ASD 2000 can function without external filters in standard environments, reducing maintenance and supporting a cleaner and more reliable detection process.

Whisper‑quiet operation

Despite housing such a powerful fan, the ASD 2000 is one of the quietest aspirating smoke detectors on the market.

Innovative silencing features around the fan substantially reduces operating noise.

This makes the ASD 2000 particularly well suited for hospitals, where patient comfort and noise minimisation are essential.

Public buildings such as museums, theatres or libraries also benefit, as do commercial offices where ASDs may need to operate near workspaces.

Low noise also opens opportunities for areas previously considered sensitive to acoustics, enabling more flexible system placement.

Ultrasonic airflow monitoring

The introduction of an ultrasonic airflow sensor offers greater accuracy, reliability and resilience than conventional mechanical or thermal sensors.

This technology provides higher precision airflow measurement with absolute values, no mechanical wear and tear, better performance in dusty or airflow‑variable environments stability across temperature fluctuations.

Installers gain a more trustworthy and maintenance‑light solution.

End‑users benefit from reduced false alarms and long‑term reliability.

And of course, the sensor is easy to replace in the field.

Smarter design tools and clever features

A powerful device deserves a powerful planning tool.

The ASD 2000 is supported by an upgraded version of PipeFlow, Securiton’s pipe network design software.

For complex environments such as large data halls, multi‑floor warehouses and intricate public buildings, the new 3D PipeFlow tool helps ensure optimal design and compliance on the first attempt, reducing revisions and installation delays.

Then there are the “life hacks”.

Drawing on decades of field experience, the engineering team embedded numerous practical efficiencies that streamline daily work for engineers and installers.

These include tool-free design for most components using click‑in field‑replaceable modules; a self-supporting cover that simplifies internal access; and built‑in labelling options for clean and professional installation.

The pipe connection on the ASD 2000 single and two-channel models fits into existing SecuriSmoke ASD systems, so that older models can be replaced without the need to adapt the pipes.

Each feature may seem small, but collectively they dramatically shorten installation time and reduce the risk of errors.

The ASD 2000 is built not only for best‑in‑class performance but for installer efficiency and operational clarity.

Designed for the future

The SecuriSmoke ASD 2000 is not just the next step in aspirating smoke technology – it is a strategic leap forward.

With its digital‑first ecosystem, performance upgrades, installer‑friendly design and unmatched engineering pedigree, it stands as the most advanced ASD solution Securiton has ever delivered.

And it doesn’t stop there.

One of the advantages of a digital-led product is that Securiton’s development team is still busy, with tranches of new features and user upgrades planned over the next 18 months and beyond.

The ASD 2000 is built for the environments that cannot afford compromise.

It sets a new benchmark for safety, flexibility and technological excellence – one that will shape smoke detection standards for years to come.

For fire safety installers, it offers faster deployment, streamlined workflows and reduced maintenance.

For operators in demanding industries where Early Warning Fire Detection is required, it provides the earliest and most reliable smoke detection available – while its unprecedented system limits and top-notch durability make it both efficient and effective in rougher environments too.

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Powering fireground vision: Why Avon Protection backs LiFePO₄ on the fireground

Dustin Gilson Clarke and Jon Turner of Avon Protection discuss how LiFePO₄ batteries are improving the safety and reliability of thermal imaging cameras for firefighters

Firefighting demands equipment that performs reliably in the most extreme and unpredictable conditions.

Central to this is safe, high-performance battery technology: lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) batteries, which provide maximum safety for firefighters thanks to their chemical stability, thermal resilience and non-toxic nature.

LiFePO₄ batteries also offer practical advantages over standard lithium-ion technology, beyond their safety and reliability.

Dustin Gilson Clarke, Business Development Manager for Thermal Imaging, and Jon Turner, Technical Authority on TICs at Avon Protection, explain how these advantages translate into real-world benefits on the fireground.

LiFePO₄ batteries are being recognised for safety. Why does the chemical stability and thermal resilience make them an ideal firefighting application?

Jon Turner: They’re quite resilient to thermal runaway.

If you take a conventional lithium‑ion battery, once it gets hot you can’t stop it.

It will get hotter, burst into flames and eventually explode.

If you’re talking about a large battery or lots together, you get a cascade effect that when one cell goes, the next one will go and so on.

That’s why you see videos of scooters exploding, because they’ve got a battery pack that’s made-up of lots of traditional lithium-ion cells and any damage to one cell will make all of them go.

You can’t spray water or foam on it, it will just burn until it’s finished.

With LiFePO₄, it doesn’t suffer the thermal runaway.

If you damage it or short it out it could get hot temporarily, but then cool down.

How does LiFePO₄ technology reduce the risk of fire‑related incidents and what made you choose them for the camera?


JT: They’re not prone to self-ignition and to undergo thermal runaway, and it’s the thermal runaway which causes fires.

If you take something like a mobile phoneand bend it in half, the chances are when you put it down, you’d feel it starting to get hot after a while.

There would then be some smoke followed by a sort of fireball explosion.

If that device had been fitted with a LiFePO₄battery, potentially that just wouldn’t happen.

It would not undergo that thermal runaway.


In terms of why we would use it in a camera, we know it is going to be treated harshly.

During testing we deliberately do things to see whether we can induce anything bad to happen, the sort of things you’d traditionally do on a of more commercial type product.

But nevertheless, there are a lot of cameras out there that still use those traditional cells.

I’m not criticising them, but I feel more confident in our technology.

In emergency scenarios, non‑toxic and eco‑friendly battery chemistry can be critical. How does LiFePO₄ protect firefighters from harmful fumes?

Dustin Gilson‑Clarke: Firefighters already face enough hazardous chemicals at the scene but with this you’re not going to get thermal runaway from the battery whilst being used in that environment.

That’s the safety part of it and that’s why it has its own certification.

What advantages do LiFePO₄ batteries offer in terms of cycle life and reliability?

JT: The primary use of aLiFePO₄battery is long life applications, so you can charge them at least 2000 times without really seeing much degradation in the battery.

Whereas you’re going to start seeing degradation in a conventional lithium-ion battery after around 500 charges.

If I can equate this back to something like a mobile phone, after about two years the battery does not behave the same as on the day you bought it.

It still works, but its capacity has dropped off and it will continue to drop off.

With LiFePO₄, they’re a lot more stable and very resilient.

So, if you compare that to a nominal 500, that really is pushing the life span.

How do LiFePO₄ batteries perform under extreme heat conditions?

JT: They are a lot happier to still operate fully in high temperature conditions.

With lithium-ion, there’s this magic point at which it will go into thermal runaway and it will just get hotter and hotter.

Whereas the LiFePO₄shouldn’t ever reach that point.

It’s very resilient to any reactions like that.

In terms of performance, they’re very good and don’t degrade very much at all at high temperatures.

What feedback have you received so far?

DGC:  Many end users may not notice a major difference between LiFePO₄ and standard lithium-ion batteries.

To them it’s all about the practicality and the fact that it can be mounted on the outside of the camera is a big benefit.

Adding to that, swapping these batteries out whilst wearing the fire equipment and fire gloves is also a big advantage.

It’ll probably take around three to four hours to fully charge them, but what that gives them is eight hours of operating time, because they’re able to take the camera with them and the spare battery in their pocket.

Swapping is easy, and within 5 seconds you’ve changed the battery and you’re up and running.

When you see a lot of the other cameras in the market that don’t have the certification we have, the battery must be done on the inside of the camera which means five seconds to swap could be five minutes.

It gives you a lot more flexibility on how the end user uses it.

JT: Just to pick up on that point, that is a mandatory requirement.

If you want to make a camera to meet the NFPA specification, it has to be locked into the camera with a tool that’s kept outside of the incident.

Not all cameras have to be made to the NFPA certification.

But it is the only true certification process that exists for thermal cameras for firefighting.

But everything that’s in there is in there for a well thought out reason.

It’s important that you should not allow people to remove a battery from a camera in a scene, either deliberately or accidentally because whenever you disconnect the battery from something, if it’s live, you’re going to generate a spark.

If you happen to be in the wrong sort of environment, that spark could be the last thing you see.

Hence our cameras are certified and tested externally to make sure that any chance of a detonation of explosive gas can when the battery is connected or disconnected from the camera.

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

From connected protection to smarter compliance: How Advanced is linking fire systems

Michael Dunbar, Digital Product Manager, Matt Jones, Head of Sales UK & Ireland, and Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer at Advanced, discuss the development of smarter, integrated fire safety solutions

As fire safety challenges grow more complex, so do expectations for system performance, integration and accountability.

At The Fire Safety Event (FSE) 2026, Advanced will be demonstrating how intelligent fire, smoke control and evacuation systems are evolving to meet these demands, not as isolated components, but as part of a smarter and connected whole.

Exhibiting in Hall 4, Stand D85, at Birmingham’s NEC, from 28–30 April, Advanced will showcase how its latest technologies are supporting safer buildings today, while laying the foundations for the data‑driven, integrated systems that compliance will increasingly demand tomorrow.

Across its stand, visitors will see how fire detection, smoke control, evacuation and system intelligence can work together, simplifying compliance, improving response and reducing long‑term operational burden.

Addressing modern challenges with proven systems

The fire safety landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade.

Buildings are more complex, usage patterns more dynamic and expectations around safety, accountability and resilience far higher than ever before.

What hasn’t changed is the need for systems that are dependable, intuitive and fit for purpose.

At Advanced, we’ve spent years developing fire and life safety solutions that respond to real‑world challenges, not theoretical ones.

That experience is particularly relevant today, as the industry grapples with emerging requirements like enhanced evacuation strategies, smoke control expectations and the growing focus on lockdown and mass notification.

A good example is the conversation around Martyn’s Law.

While the legislation itself continues to evolve, the underlying principle is clear: buildings must be able to respond quickly and effectively to a wider range of threats.

What’s often misunderstood is that many of the capabilities being discussed aren’t new concepts.

In fact, Advanced systems have supported site‑wide alerts, phased responses and lockdown‑style functionality for years, using existing, proven infrastructure.

By using intelligent fire panels, networked systems and flexible cause‑and‑effect programming, it’s already possible to deliver clear alerts, control movement and support coordinated responses without introducing unnecessary complexity or standalone systems.

At FSE, we’ll be demonstrating how these features can be implemented using our existing technology, giving specifiers and end users confidence that they can adapt to future requirements without wholesale system replacement.

Another key challenge is integration.

Fire safety systems can no longer be designed in isolation.

Smoke control, evacuation alert systems, fire detection and building management all need to work together seamlessly.

This isn’t about adding layers of technology for the sake of it, it’s about creating systems that are easier to understand, easier to manage and ultimately more effective in an emergency.

That philosophy underpins everything we’re showing at FSE, from our latest control panels to dedicated solutions like SmokeGo and EvacGo, and through to the growing role of system intelligence and connectivity.

Smoke control without complexity

Smoke control is one of the most critical, and often most misunderstood, elements of fire safety design.

It plays a vital role in protecting escape routes, supporting firefighting operations and limiting fire spread, yet it has traditionally been associated with complex programming, specialist hardware and difficult commissioning.

SmokeGo was developed to change that.

As Advanced’s dedicated smoke control solution, SmokeGo is designed to make smoke control simpler, faster and fully compliant across a wide range of applications.

Approved to EN54 Parts 2 and 4, and designed to meet the requirements of standards including BS 7346‑8 and ISO 21927‑9, it delivers reliable automatic and manual control of smoke control fans and dampers, without unnecessary complication.

One of SmokeGo’s biggest strengths is its flexibility.

It can be used in both dedicated and non‑dedicated smoke control systems, integrating seamlessly with Advanced’s next‑generation MxPro 5 fire panels.

This allows designers to achieve precise, coordinated control while maintaining a clear separation between fire detection and smoke management functions where required.

From an installer and commissioning perspective, SmokeGo’s four‑step configuration process is a game‑changer.

Complex cause‑and‑effect programming is replaced with an intuitive matrix that provides a clear, at‑a‑glance view of system behaviour.

What might once have taken days to configure can now be achieved far more quickly, with greater confidence and far less risk of error.

Operationally, SmokeGo offers the features that matter most in real buildings: automatic stairwell pressurisation, post‑alarm purge, cascade control for prioritising compartments as smoke spreads, interlocks to prevent unsafe fan operation and flexible manual overrides for fire and rescue services.

Automatic testing routines can also be programmed to run at defined intervals, helping ensure systems remain ready while minimising disruption to occupants.

Importantly, SmokeGo doesn’t exist in isolation.

When connected to AdvancedLive, users gain remote visibility of fan and damper status, adding another layer of assurance and simplifying maintenance planning.

It’s a practical example of how smart connectivity can enhance safety without overcomplicating system design.

AdvancedLive and the shift towards smarter, connected fire systems

We live in a connected world, yet many fire systems are still managed as if they exist in isolation.

Panels are installed, commissioned and then largely left alone, only interacted with during weekly tests, faults or incidents.

That approach is no longer sustainable.

Modern buildings now demand visibility.

A smart fire system isn’t about novelty or remote access for its own sake; it’s about having the right information at the right time.

Connectivity unlocks real‑time insight into system health, device status and event history, enabling faster, more accurate decision‑making when it matters most.

This is where AdvancedLive plays a critical role, not as a standalone platform, but as part of a wider smart fire system.

By connecting Advanced panels, users gain a live, unified view of what’s happening across their estate, whether that’s a single site or multiple buildings.

Fires, faults and isolations are visible as they occur, allowing teams to respond immediately rather than discovering issues after the fact.

That visibility has a direct operational impact.

Engineers can assess system status remotely before travelling to site, reducing unnecessary call‑outs.

Maintenance can be planned more effectively using device history and event data, and potential issues can be identified and addressed before they escalate into more serious and costly problems.

These benefits are already being realised in complex, real‑world environments.

At Blists Hill Victorian Town in Shropshire, multiple independent MxPro 5 panels across a large, dispersed heritage site are unified through AdvancedLive into a single, virtual network.

This provides centralised oversight without the need for additional hardware or intrusive infrastructure, allowing safety teams to monitor and manage fire system status across historic buildings, mine tunnels and standalone structures while preserving the site’s character and visitor experience.

Similarly, at Chalk Hills Academy in Luton, AdvancedLive supports the real‑time monitoring and management of a networked MxPro 5 system protecting multiple school buildings.

The platform enables authorised users to respond quickly to incidents, integrate fire safety with wider site systems such as lockdown and gas shut‑off and maintain reassurance that the system is operating as intended, even when staff are off site.

At FSE 2026, our focus is very much on making testing smarter.

Routine fire system testing remains essential, but it is often time‑consuming and disruptive.

Connected systems allow organisations to streamline testing, improve record‑keeping and reduce impact on building occupants, while still maintaining full compliance.

Looking ahead, the industry’s direction of travel is clear.

The future of fire safety is data‑driven and integration‑led.

Concepts such as the golden thread underline the growing expectation that accurate, accessible information will support building safety throughout a building’s lifecycle.

Fire systems will need to contribute to that data ecosystem, not sit outside it.

AdvancedLive is evolving with that future in mind, supporting secure access, clear audit trails and accountability.

The result is a smarter fire system where compliance isn’t just achieved at installation, but maintained, evidenced and understood over time.

A smarter, safer future

Across fire detection, smoke control, evacuation and system intelligence, Advanced’s message at FSE is simple: smarter systems don’t have to be more complicated.

By building on proven technology, embracing connectivity where it adds real value and focusing on usability, it’s possible to create fire safety solutions that are robust, adaptable and ready for the challenges ahead.

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

LearnPro Group acquires RiVR training products and specialist team

LearnPro Group adds RiVR products and staff

LearnPro Group has acquired immersive training products and technologies from RiVR, adding new virtual reality and video-based learning tools across emergency services, healthcare, defence, industrial and other safety critical sectors.

LearnPro Group announced that the deal includes RiVR Link, described as a Classroom in a Box video-based training solution, alongside RiVR Fire Investigate and RiVR Crime Scene Investigate.

A team of nine specialists responsible for developing and operating the products has joined LearnPro Group as part of the acquisition.

The team is led by Bradley Woodward and will continue to work from its existing site in Southam, Warwickshire, within LearnPro Group’s global business operations.

LearnPro Group expands immersive training range

The acquisition adds the RiVR platform to LearnPro Group’s XVR simulation suite and broadens the group’s scenario-based learning offer.

RiVR’s technologies are used across the UK, North America, Asia and Australasia.

The products combine video with virtual reality and augmented reality environments built from real world burns, crime scenes and high risk scenarios.

The material states that these environments allow learners to practise decision making, evidence gathering and operational procedures in controlled settings.

RiVR Link is described as a tool that allows users to build video-based learning in an agile way.

Leaders outline the deal

LearnPro Group CEO Costi Karayannis said: “RiVR has earned a reputation for producing exciting immersive training tools and content to support a range of use cases across emergency, health, public and other high-risk settings.

“By bringing these innovations into LearnPro Group, we’re accelerating our mission to provide the most advanced, flexible, and impactful learning ecosystem available today.”

RiVR’s Bradley Friend Woodward added: “Joining LearnPro Group allows us to take the technologies we’ve built to the next level.

“This partnership gives our team the resources, reach, and strategic alignment we need to accelerate innovation and deliver even greater value to customers.

“It’s an exciting next step.”

The deal was supported by Elucid Partners’ Paul Turner and James Barraclough, who acted as sell-side corporate finance advisers to RiVR.

PlanRadar to support ESS across fire remediation projects

PlanRadar selected for fire remediation compliance

PlanRadar has been appointed by Errigal Sustainable Solutions (ESS) as its long-term digital partner for fire remediation projects, with the platform set to support building safety and compliance across ESS’s portfolio.

PlanRadar announced that ESS selected the platform after a six-month evaluation process.

ESS, a specialist residential contractor working for housing associations, local authorities and private developers, chose the system to simplify compliance with the Building Safety Act, especially at Gateway 2 and 3 stages.

The platform will be implemented from the ground up and will bring fire-stopping records and quality checks into one central digital hub.

ESS said this will give it visibility across its project portfolio and maintain a consistent Golden Thread of data through the building lifecycle.

PlanRadar to support quality monitoring

A key part of the appointment is the use of PlanRadar to digitise site inspections and strengthen quality monitoring on fire remediation work.

Ray Toft, Managing Director at Errigal Sustainable Solutions, said: “We are a quality-led, relationship-driven business that views itself as a service provider first.

“Partnering with PlanRadar allows us to embed Tier 1-level digital systems from the start, rather than retrofitting legacy technology.

“PlanRadar is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution.

“Its adaptability means we can evolve the platform alongside our team.

“We were particularly impressed by its AI capabilities, having a system that learns from our data to validate compliance documentation could be a game-changer for fire remediation.”

ESS said the digitised inspection process is intended to reduce rework and help high-stakes fire safety tasks be completed correctly the first time.

PlanRadar partnership to cover project visibility

PlanRadar’s UK team said the partnership is intended to standardise quality monitoring and improve real-time visibility across projects.

Rob Norton, UK Director at PlanRadar, added: “We are pleased to partner with Errigal Sustainable Solutions.

“Their vision and experience demonstrate how technology can tackle the industry’s most pressing regulatory challenges.

“By using PlanRadar to standardise quality monitoring and gain real-time visibility across all projects, ESS is ideally positioned to minimise rework and drive operational efficiency.

“Together, we aim to not just meet compliance requirements but deliver superior transparency and service to their clients.”

The collaboration will also provide social landlords and developers with visibility over project progress and data to support building safety cases.

IFE’s Elevate series passes 6,000 bookings among fire engineers

Elevate reaches its first anniversary

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is marking the first anniversary of its Elevate webinar series, which launched in April 2025 and has recorded more than 6,000 ticket bookings.

Hosted online by the IFE Early Careers Networking Group (ECNG), the free educational series features guest speakers from across the fire sector and runs in 60-minute sessions.

The IFE said the programme was introduced to support future fire safety professionals through fundamental continuing professional development on a range of topics.

Steve Hamm, CEO of the IFE, said: “It has been a real pleasure to see just how popular our webinar series has become.

“CPD is a crucial aspect of retaining and acquiring knowledge in fire engineering.

“Fire engineering is not a static vocation; it is a discipline that demands continuous learning, innovation and adaptability.

“This series is designed to empower and support the next generation of fire engineering talent, guiding you through the technical knowledge and practical applications that underpin effective fire safety.”

Next Elevate sessions open for booking

Dean Morris, chair of the IFE’s Early Careers Networking Group, added: “Fire safety is not a one-size-fits-all; it requires a complex skill set paired with constant growth, and this was the catalyst for the Elevate series.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved so far with the webinar series.

“It aims to bridge the skills gap within the fire sector and promote a culture of CPD.”

Tickets for the next quarter of sessions cover ethics in the industry, fire safety in schools and atrium design.

Bookings for the 2026 second quarter sessions from April to June are open, and the IFE said organisations can use the programme as part of their ongoing training.

Atlantic Emergency Solutions receives 2025 dealer award from Pierce

Dealer award recognises 2025 performance

Pierce Manufacturing announced Atlantic Emergency Solutions as the recipient of its 2025 Dealer of the Year Award, presented during the company’s annual dealer conference after performance across sales, service and programme measures was reviewed.

Pierce said the award recognised performance across apparatus sales, aftermarket growth, profitability, dealer programme certification and use of Pierce programmes.

The Dealer of the Year award evaluates quantitative and qualitative indicators across the dealership network.

These include apparatus and aftermarket sales growth, profitability, change management and participation in programmes such as the Build My Pierce configurator and Stock program.

Dealer programme measures also include approval packet returns, LEADS participation and feedback from Pierce dealer support teams before finalists are reviewed and a final selection is made.

Dan Meyer, vice president of sales for Pierce Manufacturing, said: “The Dealer of the Year award reflects the overall strength of a dealership’s organization and its ability to support fire departments across its territory.

“Atlantic Emergency Solutions distinguished itself through consistent growth, strong operational performance and significant investments in service capabilities that directly benefit the fire departments they support.”

Dealer expansions increased service capacity

Atlantic Emergency Solutions expanded its service network during 2025 through a series of facility investments across several states.

The company added a 24,000-square-foot collision center in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, featuring a 70-foot paint booth.

It also relocated its Hagerstown service center to a new 24,000-square-foot facility, replacing its previous 8,000-square-foot location.

Further additions included a new 16,000-square-foot facility in Wilder, Kentucky, a 24,000-square-foot Tri-State service center in Milton, West Virginia and a 7,000-square-foot service center in Ashland, Virginia with room for future growth.

Atlantic Emergency Solutions now employs 62 certified Pierce Master Technicians, with another 20 technicians expected to complete certification training in early 2026.

Joe Pack, CEO of Atlantic Emergency Solutions, said: “This award reflects the dedication of every person in our organization; from the sales team who listens carefully to the unique needs of each department, to our service teams who work tirelessly to keep Pierce apparatus in service long after delivery.

“Since we started Atlantic Emergency Solutions in 2010, our focus has always been simple: take care of the people who protect our communities.

“This award is a testament to that commitment, and I’m proud of what our team continues to accomplish together.”

Pack added: “We’re building on this momentum by continuing to do what works, including taking care of our employees and staying closely connected with our customers to support their unique needs.

“With the strength of Pierce’s products and the dedication of our team, we’re focused on delivering reliable solutions and responsive service that departments can count on.”

Fixed gas and flame detection hub launched by MSA Safety

MSA Safety launches FGFD information page

MSA Safety (MSA) has launched a new Fixed Gas & Flame Detection (FGFD) Solutions webpage as a dedicated online resource for detection systems.

The page is intended to support safety management in oil & gas facilities, chemical plants and new energy sites, bringing together expert insights, technology overviews and service offerings in one place.

It is presented as a resource to help users improve reliability and make more informed decisions about gas and flame detection systems.

Detection systems and named experts

The page includes contributions from Darin Brame, Global Sales Director, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection, Scott Wilkie, Business Director EMEA & APAC, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection, Merin Joseph, Proposal Engineer – Projects, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection, Chandan Das, Business Development Manager, International, New Energies, Edwin Choo, Functional Safety Engineer, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection and George Zhang, Sales Director, China, Fixed Gas & Flame Detection.

MSA has also introduced the TG5000 Gas Monitoring System, described as a general-purpose, self-contained solution designed to detect a range of gases using XCell sensor technology.

The TG5000 is presented as requiring minimal installation and offering flexible configuration options for wastewater treatment facilities, commercial and public buildings and light industrial environments.

MSA fixed detection portfolio and tools

In other news, the company has updated its online Total Cost of Ownership calculator for point gas detection, allowing comparison of ULTIMA X5000 and General Monitors S5000 detectors against other manufacturers.

The calculator is described as providing indicative figures based on market knowledge and includes adjustable inputs such as installation, replacement sensors and calibration gas.

MSA has also published a whitepaper on XCell sensor technology for fixed gas detection, outlining applications and performance in industrial environments.

A recorded panel discussion on hydrogen storage in salt caverns hosted by Mission Hydrogen is now available, featuring Jack Samways, Business Development Manager – New Energies, Europe at MSA Safety.

Finally, MSA has released an updated version of the X/S Connect app, supporting connectivity for ULTIMA X5000, General Monitors S5000 and TG5000 gas monitors through a mobile interface.