Arco achieves top 1% global sustainability ranking in UK safety industry

UK safety industry firm Arco has been awarded Platinum status by EcoVadis, placing the business in the top 1% of organisations worldwide for sustainability performance.

The upgrade from Gold to Platinum marks a significant milestone for Arco and represents the highest level of recognition within EcoVadis’ global assessment framework. The company also achieved the top score among UK safety equipment suppliers in its sector.

Arco reported a 10% overall improvement on last year’s performance, with near-perfect scores in the Environment category and strong gains in Labour and Human Rights. The EcoVadis methodology assesses more than 150,000 organisations globally across Environment, Labour and Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement.

Award strengthens position in UK safety industry

The company said the result strengthens its position as a leader in environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and supports customers in meeting their own sustainability and procurement targets through independently verified supply chain practices.

Arco highlighted its wider ESG programme, including audited ethical standards through SMETA, alongside ongoing reductions in carbon emissions, water use and waste. It also reported strong progress in sustainable procurement, with increased supplier transparency around raw materials, conflict minerals and deforestation risks.

In its most recent ESG report, Arco said 75% of its waste is now recycled into new products, with zero waste sent to landfill over the past year. It also confirmed that 15% of its textiles are made from certified recycled sources.

NFCC launches eLearning module to support fire and rescue staff

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched a new eLearning module aimed at supporting fire and rescue staff and volunteers across the UK who work with children and young people in prevention, education and community engagement roles.

Released to coincide with National Children’s Day on May 10, the Introduction to Working with Children and Young People module is designed to provide nationally consistent guidance for staff and volunteers engaging with young people in settings such as schools, youth groups, Fire Cadets and other youth-focused programmes.

Available through NFCC’s Organisational Learning Materials Library, the resource covers safeguarding responsibilities, professional boundaries and appropriate conduct when working with children and young people.

NFCC said the module is intended as both an introductory resource for those new to youth engagement roles and a refresher for experienced staff.

Fire and rescue staff to cover ‘wide range of settings’

Chair of NFCC’s Children & Young People Board, Mark Baxter, said: “Fire and rescue staff and volunteers engage with children and young people in a wide range of settings, from prevention and education to youth programmes such as Fire Cadets.

“It is vital that they are supported with consistent, high quality learning to help them carry out this work safely, confidently and professionally. This eLearning provides an important foundation, supporting good practice and helping services deliver positive outcomes for children and young people in their communities.

“Launching the eLearning to coincide with National Children’s Day on 10 May reinforces the importance of ensuring staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities, maintain clear professional boundaries, and know how to act on concerns to keep children and young people safe.”

The module introduces key principles intended to help learners understand the needs and experiences of children and young people, recognise appropriate professional behaviour and respond to safeguarding concerns.

NFCC said the eLearning forms part of its wider programme to support fire and rescue services working with young people, alongside the Level 2 Award in Fire & Rescue Service – Introduction to Working with Children and Young People, developed in collaboration with Skills for Justice Awards.

The organisation said the learning resource is available to NFCC members through its website and can be integrated into local learning management systems to support induction, refresher training and pre-course preparation.

NFCC is an independent membership association and charity representing the UK Fire and Rescue Service. The organisation supports fire and rescue services across the country in prevention, protection and operational activities aimed at improving community safety.

Eccotarp introduces Foldable Drain Cover for spill response and environmental protection

The Foldable Drain Cover (FDC) developed by Eccotarp is designed to help prevent hazardous liquids from entering drainage systems during spill incidents and environmental protection emergencies.

According to the manufacturer, the product is intended for rapid deployment on steel and horizontal plastic drain grates, including those with side inlets or gullies. It is used in spill response situations to help contain liquids at the source and reduce the risk of environmental contamination.

The drain cover is described as foldable, reusable and chemically resistant, and is designed to be applied directly onto a cleaned drain surface with a flexible sealing membrane that uses pressure differences to help improve contact with uneven surfaces.

Eccotarp states that the product is suitable for use across a range of applications, including emergency response operations and industrial environments, and can be deployed on different types of drainage systems.

The Foldable Drain Cover is made from a combination of flexible magnetic and chemical-resistant foil materials and is designed to be compact for transport and storage, allowing it to be carried and deployed when required in spill situations.

The company says the product is part of its wider range of spill containment solutions used to support emergency responders and industry in managing accidental releases of hazardous substances.

The company is showcasing the Foldable Drain Cover at Booth E13, Hall 17, where it will be available for demonstration to visitors and industry professionals.

Lithium-ion battery fires reported in UK every five hours, QBE data shows

Fire and rescue services across the UK are now responding to lithium-ion battery fires approximately once every five hours, according to new research from insurer QBE, highlighting a sharp rise in incidents linked to everyday electronic devices and electric transport.

QBE’s analysis found that UK fire services attended the equivalent of 4.8 lithium-ion battery fires per day in 2025, up from around two per day in 2022. Overall incidents have increased by 147% over the three-year period.

The data, based on Freedom of Information responses from 42 of the UK’s 49 fire services, shows a continued upward trend in fires involving batteries used in devices such as mobile phones, laptops, e-bikes and electric scooters.

QBE said e-bikes accounted for 520 fires in 2025, more than triple the figure recorded in 2022. These incidents represented nearly a third of all lithium-ion battery fires recorded that year. Of the e-bike fires, 44% were attended by the London Fire Brigade, which reported 230 such incidents.

Electric vehicle-related fires also rose, increasing from 120 incidents in 2022 to 279 in 2025, a 133% rise. Over the same period, the number of electric vehicles on UK roads more than tripled, increasing by 206% from 664,148 to 1,971,764.

Key stats behind lithium-ion battery fires in the UK

QBE said almost half (46%) of lithium-ion battery fires occurred in homes, while 31% took place outdoors and 23% in commercial properties. Around 45% of incidents involved commonly used consumer devices such as phones, tablets and power banks.

The insurer attributes many of these incidents to “thermal runaway”, a chemical reaction in which batteries overheat and ignite, often due to damage, overcharging or exposure to heat.

Adrian Simmonds, Risk Manager at QBE Insurance, said:

“Lithium-ion battery fires continue to increase. It’s vital that people and businesses take action to better manage this growing risk. Thermal runaway caused by these types of batteries burns differently, takes much longer to tackle and can require up to 10 times more water to contain.

“Awareness of safe charging, storage and disposal is essential to keeping people and property safe. People should use only certified e-bikes and batteries, charge them away from escape routes and avoid charging items overnight.

“The statistics suggest retrofitted bikes are more prone to these incidents, so we would encourage people to stick to reputable companies when purchasing and avoid unregulated devices.”

Among UK fire services, the London Fire Brigade recorded the highest number of lithium-ion battery fires in 2025 with 522 incidents, followed by West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service with 126 and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service with 117.

The data also shows variation across regions, with Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service reporting a year-on-year reduction in incidents following updated safety guidance issued in 2023.

The findings come as the UK prepares to implement reforms under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act, which received royal assent in July and aims to strengthen oversight of product safety, including uncertified e-bikes sold via online marketplaces.

QBE is urging both households and businesses to follow stricter safety measures, including using certified products, avoiding overnight charging, inspecting batteries for damage and ensuring proper storage and disposal of lithium-ion devices.

IFE announces appointment of new Chief Executive

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced the appointment of Paul Adams as its new Chief Executive.

Paul Adams is a senior leader with more than 30 years’ experience leading chartered institutes, professional bodies, and industry organisations. In his most recent role as Chief Executive of the Institute of Learning, he strengthened governance arrangements, rebuilt organisational confidence, and embedded a culture of continuing professional development.

His career to date has included senior leadership roles at the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, the Institute of Directors, and the Civil Mediation Council, providing him with extensive strategic experience and a long-standing record of organisational leadership across the professional and membership sector.

Paul Stollard, Chair of the IFE Board of Trustee Directors, said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul as our new CEO. With a wealth of experience leading membership organisations and global professional bodies, Paul brings a deep understanding of how to support, represent and add value for members in an increasingly complex world.

“Paul’s proven leadership, strategic insight and commitment to member engagement will be invaluable as we look to the future and continue to strengthen the IFE’s impact for members and the fire safety sector.”

IFE Chief Executive comments on appointment

Commenting on his appointment, Paul Adams added: “The IFE plays a uniquely important role in advancing professional standards and public confidence in a field where the consequences of failure are profound. I am honoured to be joining at such a pivotal time for fire safety globally.

“During my military service, I saw first-hand the devastating impact fire can have on people, families and communities. That experience has stayed with me, and it underpins my commitment to the IFE’s mission.

“My focus will be on strengthening the institution’s impact by supporting and amplifying the expertise of our members, ensuring the IFE continues to lead in setting standards, shaping policy and influencing the global fire safety agenda. Together, we will build on the IFE’s strong heritage to enable fire professionals to shape a safer world.

“I would also like to thank Steve Hamm for his leadership in moving the organisation forward and for the strong platform he has created for the next phase of the IFE’s development.”

The appointment reflects the IFE’s continued commitment to advancing fire safety standards and supporting professional development across the sector. Paul Adams will join the organisation on 18 May. Outgoing Chief Executive Steve Hamm will transition into a part-time Strategic Advisor role to support continuity and ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Greece launches world’s first national wildfire satellite system

OroraTech has launched and deployment of the Hellenic Fire System, the world’s first national wildfire satellite system in Greece. The system is a four-satellite constellation dedicated to wildfire monitoring and represents the first national satellite network designed exclusively for wildfire detection and tracking. The satellites were launched aboard a SpaceX mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

The system was developed in collaboration with the Greek Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, the Hellenic Space Center, and the European Space Agency (ESA). It provides continuous, real-time wildfire intelligence covering 100% of Greek territory, enabling rapid detection and tracking of wildfire activity nationwide.

“Today marks a major step forward in strengthening Greece’s national resilience against wildfires,” said Dimitris Papastergiou, Minister of Digital Governance & Artificial Intelligence. “By integrating space-based capabilities into our emergency response systems, we are equipping our fire services with the tools they need to respond faster, act more effectively, and protect lives, property, and the environment.”

“The deployment of this system demonstrates how European collaboration can deliver tangible impact for citizens,” said Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at the European Space Agency. “By combining advanced space technologies with operational services on the ground, we are enabling faster, more informed responses to natural disasters and strengthening Europe’s leadership in Earth observation.”

“This is a defining moment not just for Greece, but also for how the world approaches wildfire management,” said Martin Langer, CEO of OroraTech. “For the first time, an entire country is protected by a dedicated satellite constellation built to detect and track wildfires in real time. This is the blueprint for how nations can use space technology to safeguard their people, ecosystems, and economies.”

Wildfire satellite system equipped with thermal infrared sensors

The Hellenic Fire System includes four satellites equipped with thermal infrared sensors, a ground station in Greece, and OroraTech’s Wildfire Solution platform integrated into national emergency response systems. Data is delivered through the Ministry of Digital Governance, enabling near real-time wildfire detection with latency measured in minutes and hotspot identification as small as 4 by 4 meters.

In 2025, Europe experienced its most severe wildfire activity in over 20 years, with significant impact in Greece and across the Mediterranean region due to rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions. The new system is designed to address gaps in traditional monitoring by providing continuous coverage and rapid detection during peak fire conditions.

The project is being implemented under an ESA Contract within the framework of the Greek National Satellite Space Project. The Project: Small-Satellites (Measure ID 16855) is implemented by the Hellenic Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence with the European Space Agency (ESA) Assistance in the Management and Implementation. It is part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan ‘Greece 2.0’, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), a core programme of the European Union-NextGenerationEU.

BSR gateway 2 approvals rise to 71%

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) made 323 gateway 2 decisions in the 12 weeks to 1 May 2026, with 71% of applications approved, according to its latest building control update.

Of all decisions made during the period, 62% related to London projects.

Applications covering 17,046 residential units were determined during the 12-week period, including approvals for 12,299 housing units. BSR said 36,984 units remain in live cases.

The regulator also reported receiving new applications covering up to 17,626 residential units over the same period.

BSR’s Innovation Unit, which manages more complex higher-risk building applications, made 33 decisions in the 12 weeks to 1 May, approving 24 applications, equivalent to a 73% approval rate.

Fourteen of those approvals were for London projects. BSR said all 14 Innovation Unit decisions in London during the period were approved.

The regulator said all-time Innovation Unit approvals now total 33, with a median approval time of 22 weeks. The unit is currently handling 143 live applications representing 27,900 residential units.

Gateway 2 approvals continue to rise

BSR also published updated figures on remediation applications. The number of legacy remediation cases submitted in 2024 has fallen to 20, down from 42 at the start of 2026, with a further 12 applications expected to be determined by mid-May.

The regulator said remediation approval rates are nearing its 2026 target of 65%.

Under BSR’s batching process, where applications are grouped for external assessment, the median time from a case being issued to a supplier to a full assessment being returned was four weeks across new build, remediation and refurbishment categories.

The regulator said 254 new build cases, 408 remediation cases and 758 refurbishment cases have been issued through batching so far.

Median times from issue to supplier through to decision were nine weeks for new build cases, 10 weeks for remediation cases and 11 weeks for refurbishment cases.

BSR said the number of long-term legacy cases has been reduced to eight, which are being managed separately as complex cases.

Transitional cases have risen to 43 after BSR took over higher-risk building projects previously managed by Assent Building Control following the company’s closure in November 2025.

Charlie Pugsley, acting chief executive officer of BSR, said the regulator was continuing to process new build and remediation applications while maintaining building safety requirements.

Eccotarp to showcase ET-Roller 7 electric fire hose winder at INTERSCHUTZ

Eccotarp has said that it will showcase its ET-Roller 7 electric fire hose winder at the INTERSCHUTZ exhibition, which takes place next month.

While many end users still manually wind fire hoses, the company said winding various types of fire hoses doesn’t always have to be hard and physically demanding work. The ET-Roller 7 electric fire hose winder enables userrs to wind fire hoses up to 6 inches in diameter.

The winder features a motor powered by Milwaukee batteries, a telescopic handle, a stable four-wheel chassis and a Quick-Release mechanism for fast exchange of adapters for winding different types of fire hoses.

It also features two types of removable carriers (DRUM or 2 FORKS) according to the size of the hose to be wound up and is suitable for various winding methods such as smooth winding of the hose by the coupling as well as hoses folded in half.

The company, based in the Czech Republic, has also confirmed that it will showcase its range of magnetic leak patches, folding spill containment berms and tanks and drain covers at the event.

Visit the Eccotarp Booth E13, Hall 17 and try the ET-Roller 7 in person.

Eccotarp to exhibit at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

Eccotarp is to exhibit at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 (Hall 17, Booth E13), the world’s leading trade fair for fire and rescue services, emergency protection, safety and security, taking place in Hannover.

Visitors can explore and test solutions for firefighters and industry, including the ET-Roller 7 electric hose roller (for hoses up to 6″), magnetic leak patches, folding spill containment berms and tanks, drain covers, and more. Visitors can discover also the new range of spill containment berms made from the unique recyclable ReccoPro material.

INTERSCHUTZ , held every five years, brings together global leaders in firefighting, civil protection, rescue services and safety innovation. The event serves as a key platform for showcasing advancements in emergency response technology and fostering international collaboration.

Securiton’s digital-first approach breaks new ground with the ASD 2000

Aspirating smoke detection (ASD) has long been the gold standard for Early Warning Fire Detection. But until 2026, ASD systems remained locked in a bygone age. Securiton has changed that with the digital-first ASD 2000.

With the Swiss company’s new device family, gone are the buttons and complex displays of old: this is a futuristic looking graphite-coloured box controlled from an app on your phone. It was born of a brief focused not on hardware, but on a seamless user journey.

Today, that means a mobile app as the primary interaction interface, alongside intuitive design that reduces complexity and saves time throughout the design, installation and commissioning process.

As an ASD pioneer with over 50 years of experience in the field, it is appropriate that Securiton should provide this generational leap forward in ASD technology. As part of the security-focused Swiss Securitas Group, Securiton was also able to direct considerable efforts to build a secure interface for the app – essential because of longstanding concerns in some key industries.

Fire detection is life critical; it’s highly regulated; and it’s generally business-critical too: around half of businesses that suffer a major blaze never recover. Others, such as data centres, power networks or financial firms, will suffer heavy costs and reputational damage should their services be suspended due to a blaze or even a false alarm.

No surprise, then, that they do not wish for the devices protecting them to be hacked. However, the fire safety industry can no longer ignore the efficiency gains available through a digital approach.

Advantages of the ASD 2000

Securiton’s solution uses multilevel encryption and authentication to ensure only the company’s authorised partners can control a device. The security architecture followed the strictest industry protocols, and the result also offers significant advantages to the old ‘dongles’ which were used to identify authorised users up to now.

With the app system, levels of clearance and permissions can be set – or taken away – almost instantly. And all the actions of a given user are clearly recorded, whereas previously the shortage of physical dongles usually led to service engineers sharing hardware and accounts.

The first SecuriSmoke product where commissioning, configuration, diagnostics, and operation are all managed through an intuitive mobile application is therefore arguably its most secure yet.

Nevertheless, Securiton is pressing on with plans to roll out a version of the ASD 2000 that offers a more conventional set-up process. This will allow installers to access the performance benefits of the new device in areas where security protocols mean the app cannot be used.

Those performance benefits make the ASD 2000 an industry-leading device even without its digital interface: because they were designing a new device from scratch, the 60-strong development team were able to pack in many major performance upgrades.

The detection chamber has undergone a redesign from scratch, doubling the maximum sensitivity to 0.001% obs/m, and a 1000pa aspiration engine expands the potential pipe network and raises system limits, especially in the highest Class A EN 54 standard for Very Early Warning Fire Detection.

The SecuriSmoke ASD 2000 offers multiple leaps forward in terms of the technologies inside. For the industry as a whole, perhaps the move to a fully digital, remote interface is the most significant. It remains to be seen if other manufacturers will follow suit.

For more information see: www.securiton.com/onestepahead