Siemens launches intelligent fire detection and notification systems for smart buildings

Intelligent fire detection portfolio combines connected fire detectors and digital notification technology to support autonomous buildings

Siemens has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new intelligent fire detection and notification portfolio that combines cloud-connected fire detectors with digital alarm notification systems to improve building safety, reduce maintenance and support autonomous building operations.

The company has introduced its next-generation Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detectors alongside the Acend Intelligent notification portfolio, creating an integrated fire safety ecosystem that delivers continuous self-testing, predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics and real-time monitoring. The combined offering is designed for sectors including healthcare, hospitality, commercial real estate, higher education and data centres, where maintaining uninterrupted operations is critical.

Together, the new products transform conventional fire safety into a proactive, connected system that gives building operators greater visibility of system performance while reducing manual maintenance through cloud-based monitoring and diagnostics.

Intelligent fire detection monitoring

The Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detectors continuously monitor their own performance using Disturbance-Free Testing (DFT), allowing automated self-checks to take place around the clock without disrupting occupants or building operations. Smoke Entry Supervision (SES) technology monitors smoke entry points in real time, while ASAplus technology combines multi-wavelength optical and dual thermal detection to reduce false alarms and unnecessary evacuations.

The detectors are fully IoT-enabled and integrate with Siemens’ Building X Fire Apps, allowing facility managers and service providers to access real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance and shared operational data from connected buildings.

Complementing the new detection portfolio, the Acend Intelligent notification range digitises fire alarm notification through connected horns, strobes, speakers and combination notification appliances that can each be monitored and activated individually.

Its integrated Disturbance-Free Testing technology enables technicians to verify system readiness without triggering audible or visual alarms, helping minimise disruption in environments such as hospitals, hotels, office buildings and data centres. Individual device monitoring also allows faults to be identified more quickly, reducing the need for physical inspections.

The notification portfolio also incorporates Class X isolation technology, ensuring systems remain operational by isolating wiring faults while maintaining protection across unaffected parts of the building.

Peter Nebiker, Head of Fire Safety at Siemens Smart Infrastructure Buildings, said: “The launch of our Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detection portfolio is a game-changer in ensuring all alarms are accurate as best as possible. By moving from periodic checks to continuous, data-driven, self-supervising systems, we’re laying the foundation for truly human-centric, autonomous buildings. By automating testing, delivering real-time insights, and enabling remote action, these solutions protect people while freeing up staff to focus on strategic priorities. This shift isn’t just about innovation – it’s about smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.”

Commenting on the launch of Acend Intelligent, Nebiker added: “As buildings become increasingly connected and digitalized, safety systems must evolve alongside them. With Acend Intelligent, we are transforming fire notification into a foundational technology for these next-generation environments by combining cloud connectivity, real-time data, and digital integration.”

The new fire detection portfolio has been designed to simplify modernisation projects by supporting stepwise upgrades while remaining compatible with existing Siemens fire panels, eliminating the need for complete system replacement. Plug-and-play integration and automatic transfer of configured settings help reduce installation time and project risk for both new-build and retrofit applications.

Both the fire detection and notification portfolios have been developed with sustainability in mind. They incorporate recycled materials and carry Siemens’ EcoTech environmental product performance label to provide greater transparency around environmental performance. The Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova detectors are also part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, the company’s open digital business platform, and have been developed and manufactured in Switzerland.

The Acend Intelligent notification portfolio is available in markets using UL certification standards, including the United States, Canada and selected countries in Latin America, the Middle East and Asia. Siemens showcased the new notification technology at the 2026 NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

LEADER GROUP acquires MERCEDES TEXTILES to strengthen firefighting equipment portfolio

LEADER GROUP acquisition of MERCEDES TEXTILES expands its North American presence

LEADER GROUP has acquired Canadian manufacturer MERCEDES TEXTILES as part of its strategy to expand its international presence and strengthen its portfolio of firefighting and rescue equipment.

The acquisition brings together LEADER GROUP’s existing range of emergency response technologies with MERCEDES TEXTILES’ expertise in manufacturing fire hoses, fittings and portable pumps, enhancing the Group’s offering for fire and rescue services worldwide.

Founded in 1979 in Quebec, MERCEDES TEXTILES designs and manufactures equipment for municipal, military, industrial and wildland firefighting services. The company exports products to more than 50 countries through its three entities – MERCEDES TEXTILES Ltd., HIGHWATER HOSE Inc. and HYDRO-WICK INDUSTRIES Ltd.

LEADER GROUP said the acquisition will strengthen its long-term presence in North America while expanding its product offering, particularly for wildland firefighting, and supporting MERCEDES TEXTILES’ international growth through the Group’s global distribution network.

How LEADER Group’s DIPHASIC mist system improves fireground safety

The move represents the latest stage in LEADER GROUP’s transformation from a specialist manufacturer into an international provider of complementary firefighting and rescue solutions.

Since 2021, the Group has doubled its revenue through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions, including ZELUP in France and C.E.T. Fire Pumps in Canada.

The expanded portfolio now covers key operational requirements across emergency response, including fluorine-free foam concentrates, firefighting nozzles and monitors, ventilators, search and rescue equipment, portable pumps and high-performance fire hoses.

Miguel Ferreira, President & CEO of LEADER GROUP, said: “This operation marks a major milestone in the development of LEADER GROUP. With MERCEDES TEXTILES, we strengthen our presence in North America and expand our range of solutions dedicated to firefightingng and rescue professionals.

“This complementarity enables us to support our customers with an ever more complete, innovative, and high-performance offering, driven by a single mission: helping save lives.”

UK firefighters continue Venezuela earthquake response mission

Venezuela earthquake response continues as UK International Search and Rescue teams work alongside international partners

UK firefighters are continuing life-saving search and rescue operations as part of the Venezuela earthquake response, where specialist teams are supporting international efforts following last week’s devastating earthquake.

The 68-strong UK International Search and Rescue (UK ISAR) team is now two days into its deployment in the Caraballeda coastal region, around 15km north of Caracas. Working alongside local and international partners, the team is carrying out systematic searches of collapsed structures using specialist equipment and trained search dogs in difficult and hazardous conditions.

The deployment includes firefighters and specialist personnel from 14 UK fire and rescue services, supported by six search dogs, medics, a structural engineer and a veterinary surgeon.

Images released show UK ISAR personnel searching collapsed buildings, coordinating with local emergency responders and deploying canine teams as rescue efforts continue.

National Fire Chiefs Council Chair Phil Garrigan said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these devastating earthquakes and the families still waiting for news of their loved ones.

“Since arriving in Venezuela the UK ISAR team has been working round the clock in incredibly challenging conditions, working side by side with local and international colleagues as part of a coordinated global response. Their dedication and professionalism is a source of great pride for the UK’s fire and rescue services.

“The commitment of our firefighters and specialists to do everything they can to help brings hope at a time of immense difficulty.”

The UK ISAR team deployed through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office remains self-sufficient and is expected to support operations for up to 10 days.

The earthquakes, which struck on 24 June, have killed at least 1,450 people, with tens of thousands still reported missing.

Britannia Fire appoints Matt Humby as expansion drives next phase of growth

Britannia Fire appoints Matt Humby as Head of Client Support and Development as the manufacturer enters its next phase of growth

UK-based company Britannia Fire has appointed Matt Humby as Head of Client Support and Development.

Describing Humby as “highly-regarded in the fire safety sector”, Britannia said he brings more than 25 years of industry experience and a strong track record in technical engagement, customer relationships and helping organisations respond to evolving fire safety challenges.

In his new role, Matt will focus on strengthening customer support, training and engagement, and contributing to future business development initiatives across the organisation. 

Commenting on his appointment, Humby said: “I am incredibly excited about my next chapter with Britannia Fire. I’m looking forward to becoming part of a fantastic team, supporting customers and continuing to contribute to an industry I am passionate about.”

Managing Director Andy Spence added: “This is an exciting time to welcome Matt to our team.  As we continue to grow, we’re investing not only in manufacturing capacity but also in strengthening the support, education and training we provide to our customers and partners. 

“Matt’s experience in technical engagement and customer development will help us expand our existing training programmes and create broader learning opportunities across the sector.

“Alongside this, our investment in facilities and production capacity ensures we are well placed to meet increasing demand for the P50 range.”

Britannia, which manufactures fire extinguishers, said the appointment comes as it enters its next phase of growth following investment in its facilities and manufacturing capacity.

As well as the expansion of its headquarters in Ashwellthorpe in Norfolk, the company recently opened a 350m2 administration centre.

It has also installed a second winding machine worth more than £300,000, which is used to attach super-strength aramid fibre to its P50 fire extinguisher cylinders.

Britannia said the investment will double production capacity for the P50 composite range, enabling the company to meet growing demand.

For further information on Britannia Fire, please visit www.britannia-fire.co.uk.

Ghent University student wins Ragnar Wighus Award

Ragnar Wighus Award recognises Ghent University master’s graduate Mohsen Morshedi for his award-winning water mist research

A Ghent University graduate has been announced as the winner of the Ragnar Wighus Award. Mohsen Morshedi will present his master thesis at the annual International Water Mist Conference (IWMC2026) in Prague, Czech Republic, on 7th and 8th October 2026. 

The title of the winning thesis is “Numerical Simulation of dense Water Mist Sprays in ‘cold’ Conditions with an Emphasis on Multi-Droplet Aerodynamics Interaction”. The thesis was supervised by Prof. Dr. Tarek Beji and Prof. Dr. Tom de Mulder. 

On receiving the news, Mohsen Morshedi said: “I am deeply honoured to be named the recipient of the Ragnar Wighus Award this year. It is a privilege to be recognised among such inspiring professionals, and I sincerely appreciate the support I have received along the way.” 

The sponsor of the award is the International Water Mist Association (IWMA). The committee that evaluates the submissions is the IWMA Scientific Council under the chairmanship of Kemal Arsava (Norwegian University of Science and Technology). 

In 2027, The Ragnar Wighus Award will go to the author of the best Ph.D. thesis. Deadline to hand in submissions is 31st March 2027. The terms under which to apply will be published towards in November. 

RECOM Fire Solutions opens distribution hub to support passive fire protection growth

RECOM Fire Solutions has opened a new distribution hub at Trafford Park in Greater Manchester

RECOM Fire Solutions has opened a new north west distribution hub in Greater Manchester as part of a six-figure investment to strengthen the operational capacity of its specialist passive fire protection division.

The new 2,500 sq m (27,000 sq ft) warehouse and office facility at Trafford Park will support the company’s continued growth by increasing storage capacity, improving logistics and enhancing stock management. The investment also includes an expanded vehicle fleet.

The division delivers passive fire protection works in live environments for clients across the education, healthcare, residential, defence and facilities management sectors.

According to the company, several smaller facilities in the north west have been consolidated into the single Trafford Park site, creating a centralised operation designed to improve efficiency and streamline deliveries.

The hub, located on the Westbrook Estate, is also expected to reduce the number of journeys required to support projects, contributing to the company’s efforts to lower its carbon footprint.

The investment follows the opening earlier this year of a new RECOM Fire Solutions base at Fort Dunlop in Birmingham, which supports projects across the Midlands, the M6 corridor and into the south west.

Sarah Leadbetter, head of RECOM Fire Solutions, said: “The opening of our new north west distribution hub is a major milestone for RECOM Fire Solutions. It creates greater efficiency through a centralised location, increases storage capacity and improves stock management.

“Trafford Park is an ideal location, as it’s highly accessible and close to our group headquarters in Salford Quays. It provides us with a strong base for our next phase of expansion and will contribute to reducing our carbon footprint as a business.”

The Trafford Park building is owned and managed by Indurent, which refurbished the site before RECOM Fire Solutions took occupation. Nexus Storage Solutions installed the warehouse racking as part of the fit-out.

The expansion comes as demand for compliant passive fire protection measures continues to grow alongside increased regulatory scrutiny across the built environment.

In recent months, RECOM Fire Solutions has also strengthened its management team with several new appointments and now employs around 60 operatives working on projects across the UK.

The company’s services include compartmentation and fire door condition surveys, installation and remediation of fire stopping and fire doors, intumescent paint application, overboarding and fire curtain installations.

RECOM Fire Solutions forms part of the RECOM Solutions group, which also provides project management consultancy and main contracting services. The group was founded in 2015 by Jason McKnight and Joseph Dillon, who met while studying construction management at the University of Salford before later working together at Bovis Lend Lease.

Promatect-LS service enclosure system launched by Promat

Promatect-LS service enclosure system delivers up to 120 minutes of fire resistance

Promat has launched the Promatect-LS service enclosure system, a new passive fire protection solution offering up to 120 minutes of fire resistance and tested for fire exposure both inside and outside the enclosure.

The Promatect-LS service enclosure system also provides protection for critical cabling within the enclosure, helping to maintain essential service functionality during a fire.

Complementing Promat’s existing portfolio of ducting and service enclosure solutions, Promatect-LS service enclosures have been independently tested and classified to EN 1366-5 and EN 13501-2. The Promatect-LS cable protection system has also been independently tested and classified to EN 1366-1 and EN 13501-3. Both systems have been tested for horizontal and vertical applications.

Fire-rated service enclosures play a critical role in large buildings by protecting essential infrastructure, including data cables and power lines, while supporting emergency response measures.

In the event of a fire, inadequately protected service enclosures can provide a route for fire spread. Promatect®-LS is designed to contain fire within the enclosure, reducing the risk of rapid fire propagation and helping to protect escape routes by preventing smoke infiltration.

The system has been developed to protect services in a range of environments, including high-rise buildings, hospitals and care facilities, underground car parks, transport hubs and laboratories.

Margherita Mullis, Product Manager at Promat, said: “Correctly specified, fire-rated service enclosures play an essential role in helping to contain the spread of fire, and are vital to maintaining compartmentation.

“It is important to remember that fire can break out in cables themselves, which makes it vital that service enclosures offer the same level of protection both on the inside and outside of the enclosure.

“In testing to the latest EN standards, Promatect-LS successfully demonstrated fire resistance for up to 120 minutes, meaning it is suitable for gas pipe, and mechanical and electrical service enclosures.

“Active fire protection often also relies on service functionality, and accurately specified cable protection enclosures are essential for reliable operation of systems such as sprinklers and emergency lighting. Promatect-LS is designed to help to ensure buildings are protected long enough to allow occupants to escape and fire fighters to safely operate.”

Rated A1 non-combustible, Promatect-LS is moisture-resistant and certified for 25 years of durability, supporting long-term performance in environments with high service density such as plant rooms and basements.

In addition to EN testing, classification reports are available for Promatect-LS systems.

Fire and rescue leaders call for stronger leadership to tackle emerging risks

Fire and rescue leaders from across Europe have called for stronger strategic leadership and deeper cross-border cooperation to address an increasingly complex range of threats facing public safety services.

The call came during the 2026 Leadership Conference hosted by the Federation of European Fire Officers (FEU) in Hannover on 3 and 4 June, where senior fire and rescue professionals gathered to discuss the future of leadership within Europe’s fire and civil protection sectors.

Following the event, the FEU issued a statement reaffirming the critical role that future-focused leadership will play in maintaining the resilience and effectiveness of fire and rescue services across Europe.

Delegates highlighted the growing range of challenges facing emergency services, including geopolitical instability, hybrid threats, climate-related emergencies, digital vulnerabilities and increasing public expectations.

According to the FEU, these evolving risks require leaders who can anticipate future challenges, think strategically and work effectively across national and organisational boundaries.

The conference placed particular emphasis on leadership development as a key component of long-term resilience, with the organisation highlighting the success of its Officer Development Program (ODP), launched five years ago to support the next generation of fire and rescue leaders.

The programme was established to strengthen strategic thinking, encourage international collaboration and provide emerging leaders with a European network capable of supporting cross-border cooperation during future emergencies.

Conference discussions also focused on the wider factors required to strengthen resilience across Europe’s emergency response systems. Delegates agreed that preparedness extends beyond operational capability and depends on effective governance, long-term planning and the ability to manage organisational change within public safety institutions.

The FEU said strengthening leadership capacity will be essential as fire and rescue services adapt to increasingly interconnected risks that frequently extend beyond national borders.

In its concluding statement, the organisation called for greater cooperation between European fire and civil protection agencies, alongside sustained investment in leadership development and strategic planning.

The FEU said safeguarding communities against future threats will require coordinated European action, stronger strategic alignment and a collective commitment to building resilience across borders.

The conference conclusions are expected to inform ongoing discussions among fire and rescue leaders as services across Europe continue to adapt to a rapidly changing risk landscape.

Calls grow for wider hotel fire safety reforms as Scotland introduces new sprinkler rules

New hotel fire safety regulations for historic building conversions spark debate over sprinkler requirements across the wider hospitality sector

The introduction of mandatory sprinkler systems in historic hotel conversions across Scotland has prompted fresh calls for wider hotel fire safety reforms, with industry figures questioning why the new requirements do not extend to all hotels.

The regulations, which came into force on April 6, require sprinkler systems to be installed in traditional buildings converted for hotel use. The move follows a series of fatal hotel fires and represents one of the most significant changes to hotel fire safety requirements in Scotland in recent years.

However, fire safety advocates argue the legislation has also highlighted a broader issue: while some converted historic hotels must now install sprinklers, there remains no general requirement for sprinkler systems in many modern, purpose-built hotels.

The changes stem from recommendations made following the fatal fire at Cameron House Hotel on Loch Lomond in 2017, which claimed two lives and prompted a major review of hotel fire safety standards. The tragedy exposed weaknesses in fire protection arrangements and led to calls for stronger suppression measures in buildings used to accommodate sleeping guests.

While the new rules have been welcomed as a positive step, attention has now turned to evidence suggesting fire risks are not confined to historic buildings.

Analysis commissioned by the Scottish Government as part of its review of sprinkler requirements found that hotels built using non-traditional construction methods experienced a higher frequency of fire incidents and greater levels of physical fire damage than traditional converted properties during the period studied.

The findings have prompted questions over whether future fire safety reforms should consider a wider range of hotel types rather than focusing solely on historic conversions.

The debate comes against a backdrop of continuing concern over hotel fire incidents across Great Britain. More than 400 hotel fires are recorded annually, according to industry figures, equating to more than one fire every day across a hotel stock of around 9,500 properties.

Advocates of wider sprinkler adoption argue that while the latest regulations address a specific area of risk, they do not resolve concerns about fire protection standards across the wider hospitality sector.

The issue has remained in the spotlight following the fatal fire at the New County Hotel in Perth in 2023, which claimed three lives and renewed scrutiny of fire safety arrangements in hotels.

Industry campaigners say Scotland has taken an important step by introducing mandatory sprinklers for historic hotel conversions, but believe the evidence supporting sprinkler protection should continue to be examined across all forms of hotel accommodation.

As the new regulations begin to take effect, attention is likely to focus on whether policymakers are prepared to consider further reforms aimed at expanding sprinkler requirements beyond traditional buildings.

The debate is expected to continue as fire safety professionals, hotel operators and government officials assess the impact of the new rules and the broader implications for guest safety across Scotland’s hospitality sector.

Passive fire protection CPD launched to tackle renovation project challenges

New passive fire protection CPD helps construction professionals navigate fire safety compliance in refurbishment and change of use projects

Passive fire protection specialist Promat has launched a new continuing professional development (CPD) programme designed to address the challenges of specifying and installing passive fire protection systems in refurbishment and change of use projects.

The new CPD has been developed to support architects, fire engineers and project teams working on renovation schemes, where complex existing structures, mixed-material construction methods and compliance requirements can create significant fire safety challenges.

Renovation projects frequently involve older buildings with unknown concrete grades, listed building restrictions, limited space and buildability constraints, all of which can make the application of fire testing standards more complex. Structural integrity is also a key concern where the condition of existing concrete and steel structures is uncertain or where additional protection is required to reduce the impact of potential fire damage.

The launch comes at a time when fire safety compliance is facing increased scrutiny, with stakeholders required to demonstrate a clear understanding of evolving standards and regulatory requirements.

Promat’s CPD explores the importance of structural protection and passive fire protection in achieving fire resistance requirements under Part B of the Building Regulations. It also outlines the compliance considerations associated with changing a building’s use, including the need to ensure appropriate fire protection measures are in place.

The programme covers structural protection strategies for concrete and steel-framed buildings, timber floors and the role of compartmentation in refurbishment projects. It highlights how effective compartmentation can help contain fire for a specified period, supporting safe evacuation and enabling emergency services to respond.

The CPD also explains how exposure to high temperatures can compromise the structural integrity of both steel and concrete, and how passive fire protection systems can provide critical protection for defined periods during a fire event.

In addition, participants will gain insight into solutions for common refurbishment challenges and learn how manufacturers can help demonstrate compliance where there may be gaps between standard fire testing and real-world building conditions.

Industry demand for specialist fire safety knowledge

Commenting on the launch, Joshua Slack, Commercial Director at Promat UK, said: “As a leading manufacturer of passive fire protection systems, Promat works closely with project teams, architects and fire engineers during the design stage of building projects to ensure the correct product is specified accurately to meet Part B of the Building Regulations.

“With space for new buildings often hard to find, especially in cities, and a growing awareness of the role renovation plays in supporting more sustainable building design, there is a clear demand for specialist knowledge in fire safety for property upgrades – and it is vital that this remains a priority in all building projects.

“This CPD addresses the complexities of providing passive fire protection for renovation and change of use projects to ensure fire safety is up to standard. It will equip participants with solutions for renovation-specific scenarios along with valuable insights and knowledge to accurately protect renovation projects.”

The CPD also addresses specialist challenges such as interfacing timber-joisted floors with structural steel beams and columns, as well as methods for preserving existing decorative ceilings in listed buildings while maintaining fire safety performance.