IFSJ-Issue27-Full-Mag

The September Edition of International Fire and Safety Journal is out now!

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking News

Read the latest edition of International Fire and Safety Journal here

Editor’s Note

Hello and welcome to the September Edition of International Fire and Safety Journal.

The magnitude of the wildfires on Hawaii’s Maui and across parts of Europe serve as poignant reminders of the fire and safety sector’s pivotal role in protecting lives and property.

With the devastating blazes in Greece, Turkey, and Tenerife wreaking havoc, it underscores our mission’s gravity.

Once again, we’re confronted with the need to remain proactive, fostering innovation and adopting globally recognised safety standards.

Addressing the wildfire phenomenon, WFCA’s Bob Roper, Gabriel Reza of the Glendale Fire Department, and The Institution of Fire Engineers CEO Steve Hamm shed light on global wildfire policies, combat techniques, and the urgent need for mitigation.

This month, in an exclusive Head to Head, we sit down with Clive Miles, the newly appointed Chair of the ASFP.

Our conversation travels through nearly four decades, revealing the changing landscape of the PFP sector.

Miles’ first-hand accounts provide a comprehensive look into its growth and challenges.

Our Special Report, in collaboration with MSA Safety, puts a spotlight on firefighter Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

As we have seen, firefighters face unpredictable challenges, and their PPE remains a non-negotiable shield in the face of adversity.

In this issue, we delve into Building Safety regulations with experts including Dan Rossiter, explore Black Rainbow’s Nimbus with Nikki Moscrop, and uncover innovations in Fire Engineering from Ahmed Allam and VR training by James Mullins.

Additionally, Jo Taylor and Jeff Dill address decontamination and moral injury in first responders, while Fredric Pettersson and Rafal Kolodziejski discusses firefighting foams and maritime safety, capped by our Last Word from Amthal’s Reece Paprotny’s on his new role and the company’s rebrand.

We’re also thrilled to give a sneak peek into The Emergency Services Show 2023 which comes to the NEC in Birmingham on the 19-20 September.

Don’t miss out on this premier event that promises cutting-edge technologies and unmatched learning opportunities, and be sure to come see the IFSJ team at the show in Hall 5/L186.

Enjoy the magazine!

In this issue of International Fire and Safety Journal

p18 – Head to Head Exclusives with Clive Miles

The new ASFP Chair is heralding a focus on excellence, innovation, and addressing workforce concerns

p24 – Firefighting Technology

Streamlight – p24

The illumination experts share their insights into choosing the right lighting solution

Ziamatic – p28

Explore Ziamatic’s new Heavy Rescue Tool Mounts and their impact on firefighting

FLAIM – p30

Delve in to the future of VR fire training with James Mullins

p34 – Suppression

Survitec – p34

Rafal Kolodziejski explains how SMARR-TI Enhances Fire Safety in the Maritime Industry

Perimeter Solutions – p38

Fredric Pettersson looks at the new firefighting foam blending facility in Saudi Arabia

p42 – Expert Insight

Black Rainbow – p42

Nikki Moscrop explains how Black Rainbow’s Nimbus will revolutionise fire investigations

p45 – Special Report

Personal Protective Equipment

Produced in collaboration with MSA Safety

Knowledge Partner – p50

MSA’s Gustavo Lopez and Nik Blymiller discuss the latest advancements in the fire protective clothing

p58 – Show Preview

Emergency Services Show – p58

Look ahead at the essential UK trade show for the blue light sector

p64 – Wildfire

Western Fire Chiefs Association – p64

Senior Policy Advisor Bob Roper navigates the complex terrain of wildland fire policy development

The Institution of Fire Engineers – p68

Steve Hamm highlights the global imperative to combat increasing wildfires across the world

Gabe Reza – p70

Glendale Fire Department’s Senior Environmental Specialist talks the crucial role of community

p74 – Women in Fire

Antarctic Fire Angels – p74

Georgina Gilbert explains why their journey goes beyond the plains of Antarctica

WarringtonFire – p76

Namrata Moharana talks about finding her feet in the fire industry

p84 – Building Safety

Quelfire – p84

Sales Director Craig Wells looks at the road to standardisation     

BSI – p88

Dan Rossiter delves into the implementation, benefits, and challenges of the Golden Thread

FRC – p90

Director Dorian Lawrence sheds light on adaptive compliance strategies in a maze of regulation

p94 – Health and Wellbeing

De-Wipe – p94

Jo Taylor discusses the importance of decontamination

FHBA – p96

Jeff Dill sheds light on the growing concern of Moral Injury

p98 – Fire Engineering

Emirates Safety Laboratory – p98

DCD’s ESL gives a comprehensive overview of the protocols and standards for fire pump testing

CHPK – p102

Ahmed Allam highlights the need for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to fire engineering

p104 – The Last Word

Amthal – p104

Reece Prapotny discusses his new role and Amthal’s recent rebrand

Read the latest edition of International Fire and Safety Journal now!

The far-reaching impact of wildfire smoke

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsWildland Fire

As parts of the world are experiencing the impact of wildfire smoke first-hand, tens of millions of people in North America have been forced to confront dangerous air quality levels. The cause? Intense wildfires ravaging across Canada, particularly Quebec, where 160 fires are actively burning.

As forests burn, large volumes of smoke are released into the atmosphere, impacting air quality locally and often hundreds, even thousands, of miles away. From Toronto to New York, vast metropolitan areas have been shrouded in an ominous orange haze, briefly earning them the dubious distinction of having the worst air quality worldwide.

So what are the mechanisms behind smoke dispersion and the implications for air quality and human health?

How does wildfire smoke spread?

Smoke from wildfires consists of a mixture of gases and microscopic particles produced when organic matter burns. The spread of smoke is primarily dictated by weather patterns and atmospheric conditions.

When wildfires ignite, smoke is released and can ascend to high altitudes due to the heat of the fires. This smoke can then travel great distances, carried by wind currents. It’s not uncommon for wildfire smoke to cross state lines, oceans, and even continents. For instance, smoke from the 2020 US West Coast wildfires was observed over Northern Europe, illustrating the transcontinental reach of such events.

Smoke composition and its effects on air quality

Wildfire smoke is composed of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapor, and particulate matter. Of these, particulate matter—specifically PM2.5, or particles with diameters that are 2.5 micrometres and smaller—is the greatest concern for air quality and health. PM2.5 particles are small enough to be inhaled into the deepest parts of the lungs and even into the bloodstream, causing various health problems.

High concentrations of these particles significantly degrade air quality, creating hazy conditions and reducing visibility. This can result in an Air Quality Index (AQI) that exceeds safe levels for humans and animals.

Impact on human health

Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to a range of health effects, some immediate and others potentially long-term. These can range from minor symptoms like coughing and difficulty breathing, to more severe issues such as exacerbating chronic heart and lung diseases. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children are particularly vulnerable.

How far can wildfire smoke travel?

The extent of smoke dispersion is dependent on the size of the fire and prevailing weather patterns. In some instances, smoke from severe wildfires in western North America has been reported to affect air quality on the East Coast. In 2019, smoke from Australian bushfires circumnavigated the globe, returning to its origin – a clear demonstration of the far-reaching effects of these fires.

Mitigating the impact

As our climate changes and the incidence of large-scale wildfires potentially increases, understanding and mitigating the impact of wildfire smoke becomes crucial. Measures include improving forecasting of smoke spread, raising public awareness of the health risks, and implementing strategies to reduce the incidence and severity of wildfires.

Furthermore, individuals can take action by staying informed about the AQI in their area, especially during wildfire season, and taking necessary precautions like staying indoors and using air purifiers during periods of poor air quality.

IFSJ comment

The smoke from wildfires can have a profound and far-reaching impact on air quality, traveling great distances and impacting the health of people far removed from the fires themselves. As we grapple with the reality of an ever-changing climate, it becomes increasingly necessary to understand and address this smoky consequence of wildfires.

Wildfire resiliency bolstered in Colorado with historic new law

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsFeatured NewsWildland Fire

In a progressive move hailed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Colorado has launched a ground-breaking law, SB23-166, instituting the Wildfire Resiliency Code Board. The board will bolster building codes and strengthen protections against the ever-present wildfire threats in Colorado’s wildland-urban interface regions.

Jim Pauley, President and CEO of the NFPA, lauded the enactment, stating: “This is a tremendous step forward for expanding wildfire mitigation in Colorado and recognizes the need for policy action to better withstand the impact of wildfires.” Pauley added, “Signing SB23-166 into law reaffirms Colorado’s commitment to wildfire resiliency, safeguarding homes, and supporting firefighters in their response efforts. The NFPA commends Governor Polis, the Colorado House, and the Senate for their leadership in prioritizing the safety of residents, businesses, and properties.”

The urgency for the enactment of this law is underscored by Colorado’s recent wildfire history. The state has experienced four of its largest wildfires in just the last three years. Fires in 2020 and 2021 resulted in the obliteration of approximately 1,500 structures, tallying an estimated $3.3 billion in insured losses. The 2021 Marshall Fire tragically claimed two lives.

The newly adopted law represents a vital step toward mitigating wildfire risks to communities. The creation of the Wildfire Resiliency Board entrusts the body with the task of implementing statewide standards and developing solid wildfire mitigation strategies. This strategic plan will leverage the knowledge of key stakeholders to curb wildfire risks in Colorado’s diverse communities.

NFPA was a staunch supporter of SB23-166, providing expert input to the state fire commission’s Wildland Urban Interface subcommittee. The association’s experts offered valuable insights on the benefits of implementing statewide standards to regulate construction and land use in wildfire-prone areas.

Michele Steinberg, the Wildfire Division Director of the NFPA, spoke to the new law’s merits, saying: “By setting strong building codes and promoting resilience measures, this law ensures that at-risk homes and communities in Colorado are better prepared to withstand wildfires.” Steinberg also emphasised the law’s alignment with NFPA’s voluntary wildfire mitigation program, Firewise USA. She highlighted that Colorado currently has 200 active Firewise sites, representing 100,000 residents, making it the state with the third-highest number of participants nationwide.

Firewise US is a component of Outthink Wildfire, an NFPA policy initiative. The initiative urges all tiers of government to introduce major policy modifications to facilitate safer homes and businesses. This includes home enhancements and risk reduction, robust building and land use standards, and additional resources for wildland fuel management.

The new Colorado wildfire law’s implementation coincides with the availability of federal funding for hazard mitigation efforts. This support extends to technical assistance for implementing wildfire building codes and risk reduction strategies.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Established in 1896, the NFPA® is an independent, globally-recognsed, nonprofit organisation committed to eradicating death, injury, property, and economic loss due to fire, electrical, and associated hazards. With over 300 consensus codes and standards, NFPA disseminates information and knowledge through research, training, education, outreach, and advocacy, working alongside partners who are dedicated to furthering the NFPA mission. For more details, visit www.nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be freely accessed online at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.

IFSJ Exclusive: New kid on the block

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsFire SuppressionIFSJ Exclusives

The story of Ryan Fogelman and Fire Rover: the solution that is revolutionising firefighting in the waste and recycling industry and beyond. By Duncan J. White

Ryan Fogelman is a man with a distinctive expertise in guiding inventors through the process of bringing their products to market. Despite not having a background in the fire industry, he has successfully collaborated with inventors to launch an array of safety products and consumer goods, including the Stick Grip, which has achieved extraordinary popularity, amassing approximately a billion views on the TikTok platform and COhatch, community-oriented coworking spaces that helps entrepreneurs bring their inventions to market.

Fogelman’s educational background includes a law degree and an MBA, which, coupled with his extensive focus on data analysis, reflects his dedication to rigorous analysis and strategic decision-making. While he possesses a wealth of knowledge in these areas, Fogelman primarily identifies as a business development professional.

It was through this professional network that Fogelman was approached in 2015 by a childhood friend, Brad Gladstone, who sought his assistance with their innovation known as Fire Rover, a remotely operated fire detection and suppression solution. Intrigued by the opportunity to work on ground-breaking technology, he joined the endeavour as part of Fire Rover’s first official employee.

Understanding the problem

Upon visiting his first trade show to present the product to the market, Fogelman was confronted by an issue: there was no solid information around the problem Fire Rover was looking to solve and so was unable to answer the customer’s fundamental question ‘why should I buy it?’.

Fires at waste and recycling centres were common, and their prevalence was something that he had researched extensively, but at that time there was no benchmark for the scale of the issue.

Seeking to understand the problem and identify the necessary solutions, Fogelman reached out to various industry professionals, but none of them had concrete data or knowledge about the prevalence of these fires. The industry was operating in a closed loop, with opinions and information kept in-house.

Driven by his curiosity, Fogelman decided to take matters into his own hands. Utilising his experience with Google Alerts, he started tracking fire incidents and began reporting the data. Gradually, he collected benchmark data and continued to monitor and analyse the information.

“I became an expert on waste and recycling facility fires and early detection solutions,” says Fogelman. “When you’re starting a company, you need to be an expert if you plan on being taken seriously in the market.” Additionally, Fogelman began to create a group of fire experts focused on problems in other occupancies to bring a new understanding to the growing threat of fires.

The scale of the problem

Traditional hazards combined with the onslaught of batteries in waste and recycling streams, worsening heat and dryness across the globe, and many other factors continue to make operating waste and recycling facilities more dangerous. As the world seeks to become more environmentally conscious, more stress is being placed on the waste industry’s infrastructure through increased recycling. The resulting rise in fires partially results from the increased sorting steps required in waste diversion, which whilst this may be classed as a good problem is one which can have dangerous consequences. In 2022, the waste and recycling industry experienced two fatalities and 56 direct and indirect injuries due to fire incidents. Uncontrolled waste fires also emit chemicals, such as acid vapours, dioxins, carbon monoxide, and heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, and chromium, among many other toxic substances. The more proximate to uncontrolled waste burning, the higher the risk of exposure to these hazards and pollutants. “Through my years of analysing the waste and recycling industry, I now strongly believe that waste and recycling facility operators are the unintended victims of combustible materials, such as lithium-ion batteries, placed by the public in the waste streams,” says Fogelman. “It is only fair that some of the costs of these fire hazards, which, in my estimation, cost more than $1.2 billion dollars in the US and Canada, should be borne by the manufacturers of the batteries as opposed to the operators, insurance companies, and municipal fire departments.”

The solution

Fire Rover is a fully patented remotely operated fire detection and suppression solution that works 24/7/365 to protect facilities worldwide by detecting and extinguishing fires during their earliest stages. Fire Rover achieves early detection of fire incidents using military-grade thermal detection equipment, smoke analytics, optical flame detectors, and high-definition video to facilitate final verification by human agents and targeted fire suppression using onsite, PFAS-free firefighting agents.

Equipped with military grade thermal cameras paired with listed optical flame detectors and smoke detectors to satisfy code compliance, the Fire Rover detects early heat abnormality sometimes before visible smoke or flames are present.

Once a heat abnormality is detected, alarms received from the detectors are transmitted to a UL central station. A Fire Rover agent verifies if it is a false positive or a threat and action must be taken.

If action must be taken, the Fire Rover agent alerts the facility, the fire department, and authorities and then shoots an environmentally friendly cooling agent from the Fire Rover’s nozzles onto the hotspot to eliminate a fire before or after it starts. This allows ample time for the facility operator and fire professionals to respond appropriately to the hazard level.

The Fire Rover is capable of superior suppression, partially due to the elevated water density a monitor delivers compared to the design densities of a typical sprinkler system and partially due to the targeted suppression from controlling the monitor from the central station.

By detecting early when the fire is small, targeting the fire, and putting large amounts of water in this initial growth stage, the total water usage is significantly reduced.

“We focus on those initial 10 minutes between a breakdown in prevention and the fire professionals arrival on the scene. We are always trying to set the tripwire as early in the process as possible,” says Fogelman. “We’ve developed what we call the pre-incipient stage, which is basically when I catch a fire before there’s a flame just based on a heat abnormality. We look at it, we verify it, and we activate Fire Rover to safely deal with the situation.”

Reducing the risk

Fogelman spent his first few years in the market trying to understand the problem and being cautious about saying that the patented product is the solution to the problem: “Sometimes you need to call a spade a spade. I am now 100% confident that our solution is the only solution on the market today that can lower the risk profile of a good operator to levels seen before the lithium-ion hazards hit our industry.”

In 2022, Fire Rover successfully responded to 2,880 incidents and dispatched fire professionals 146 times, while remotely responding to active fire incidents with our targeted suppression solution 137 times. The solution currently safeguards nine of the country’s top 10 waste and recycling companies and family-owned operations, municipalities, and corporations in the US, Canada, the UK, France, and Australia. It has successfully fought against any major incident with minimal damage to the clients’ facilities.

“To prevent and eliminate fire incidents, you must invest in solutions that work for your facility type,” says Fogelman. “This means that traditional fire suppression methods such as water sprinkler systems and smoke alarms may not be the best option to stop a fire at a facility where there is a lot of activity, high ceilings and open doors to the elements, such as an MRF, scrap metal facility, transfer station, or waste-to-energy facility. The Fire Rover is the only real protection to outdoor storage or operations as well.”

The future of Fire Rover

Fire Rover has been working on FM certification since its inception, but now believes it is less than a year away. In recent years, Fogelman says the company has been looking at other occupancies where the system could be effective such as refineries, construction sites, demolition sites, historical structures, airplane hangars, and garages, specifically housing lithium-powered electronic vehicles. “Since the changes in 409, we believe that for hanger protection, there is no better solution, as we have never had a false alarm or a false deluge,” he says.

Fogelman’s message to the industry is this: “There is a system out there that will catch fires early. If you catch fires early you have less damage, less fire water, and less environmental effects. You have all these issues that are alleviated. But the reality is that just like anything else we need the support. We need the NFPA, we need the market to get behind our solution and results because as we all know, the industry typically works slowly when it comes to adopting and approving new technology.

“We have a proven technology. This isn’t a new technology, it’s proven technology that we have installed and protecting over 400 sites across the globe. The question is how do we get everybody on board with it now that we have proven it, and determining what industries can it work for outside of waste recycling.

“The major hurdle is that even though there is a different, better way to put out fire, people are going back to the same old method: water, water, water. Fire water is harmful to people, the environment, and property, and all the different pieces that go with it. Fire Rover negates that. We have had less than 30 incidents since 2015 where we needed the fire department to come on scene and add additional power to put a fire out successfully.”

 When it first started out Fire Rover, potential customers would question the amount of water Fire Rover had in its tanks. The team at Fire Rover has since determined that, most of the time, 1,000 gallons (3,785 L) are more than enough to deal with the hazards faced especially when the fires are caught so early. It has since added a continuous flow option, where the Fire Rover solution connects directly to the water supply and can be used as a primary solution versus a supplemental solution. This approach has allowed Fire Rover to cover more significant hazards across various occupancies.

Fogelman adds: “When we commit to working with a customer, we enter a long-term partnership to protect them from the danger of fire incidents inherent in their operations. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder on the frontlines, detecting, reacting, and fighting fire hazards together.

“The fire hazards we face today will continue to evolve as the world changes. Having an agile, ready, and capable response plan built on industry best practices, supported by tested equipment and qualified personnel, and tailor-made for your operation are your keys to maintaining a safe and healthy infrastructure for you, your employees, your neighbours, the environment, and the waste and recycling industry.”

This exclusive article was originally published in the June 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

USFA to replace legacy NFIRS with new advanced platform

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsFeatured News

The US Fire Administration (USFA) has announced the initiation of an ambitious modernisation project to develop a new, interoperable fire information and analytics platform, dubbed the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).

The cutting-edge platform is set to revolutionise the American fire and emergency services by providing near real-time information and analytics tools to enhance data-driven decision-making for improved preparedness and response to all hazards.

NERIS aims to integrate data from a variety of federal data sets, computer-aided dispatch, and other live-data sources. This amalgamation of information will enable community risk assessment, encompassing vulnerable populations, the wildland-urban interface, drought areas, and flood plains.

NERIS will facilitate rapid data capture from hostile event responses, including responses to structure fires, emergency medical incidents, and hazardous materials events.

This project is made possible by a research and development contract awarded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate’s (S&T) Long-Range Broad Agency Announcement program to the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI).

FSRI, an integral part of the UL Research Institutes, the non-profit safety science entity within the UL enterprise, will collaborate with the USFA, DHS S&T, and the American fire service to develop and introduce the NERIS platform to fire and emergency services departments across the nation.

NERIS is set to replace the existing National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) with a secure, cloud-hosted platform. This modern system aligns with the USFA’s National Fire Data Center’s responsibility under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-498) to diminish the fire problem, reduce loss of life and property, and educate the public on fire prevention and protection, as well as the effects of all hazards.

Upon completion and operation of NERIS, the USFA will coordinate the migration of fire and emergency services departments onto the new platform. The incumbent NFIRS will remain operational throughout the transition process, ensuring the continuity of services. All fire and emergency services departments are encouraged to maintain their current use of the NFIRS data system until their migration to NERIS is complete. For the latest information on NERIS development, please visit www.usfa.fema.gov/nfirs/neris/.

Learn, Network, Innovate at the NFPA Conference & Expo

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsEventsIFSJ Exclusives

Take a look at what’s in store at the NFPA Conference which returns to Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas in June

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is set to host its annual Conference & Expo on June 19-21, 2023 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. Thousands of professionals from the fire, electrical, and life safety industries will gather for the event to attend over 110 educational sessions, covering the latest issues, challenges, and trends in the field.

The expo, featuring more than 300 exhibitors, will showcase products and services necessary to meet and maintain compliance with prevailing codes and standards in the design, construction, and operation of buildings and facilities. Attendees can also expect a series of pavilions, presentations, and special events to address specific topic areas, including electrical safety, emerging technologies, and community risk reduction.

The NFPA Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE) will be held on June 19-20, covering a wide range of public education issues, such as fire prevention programs and approaches for multiple age groups, the value and impact of community partnerships, and CRR strategies that can help effectively impact communities as a whole.

The keynote speaker at the conference’s opening general session will be Dr. Albert Manero, a social entrepreneur, educator, humanitarian, engineer, and superhero to hundreds of “bionic kids” who have benefited from his mission to make 3-D printed bionic prosthetic limbs accessible to all. Dr. Manero will deliver an account of the difference one person can make in the world while championing the art—and highly human impact—of science, technology, engineering, and math.

The Technical Meeting, which allows NFPA members and the public to express positions on each certified amending motion (CAM), will be held on June 22. If necessary, the meeting will continue on Friday, June 23, allowing additional time for full debate and action. The Motions Committee will announce the final details of the Technical Meeting scheduling, as well as the full agenda of all CAMS to be debated and acted upon each day, on or before 9 May.

The event is set to attract thousands of professionals from the fire, electrical, and life safety industries. Its educational programme will cover the latest issues, challenges, and trends in the field, ensuring that attendees are up-to-date with the most current and relevant information. Here are a few of the key sessions to look out for on each day.

Monday 19 June

The presentation “Addressing the Life Safety Risks and Hazards of EV Manufacturing,” will focus on the unique hazards present at each stage of lithium-ion battery and EV production. Presenters, James Taylor and Tanner Burke from ACS Group, will also discuss how LIB can be used for strategic protection to address the safety risks and hazards associated with EV manufacturing. This session will take place from 8am to 9am.

Elsewhere, “Decoding PFAS in the Fire Service: What It Is and Why It Was Used” will be held from 9:15am to 10:15am and look at the basic understanding of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and their use in the fire service. Attendees will learn about North Carolina State University’s recent research on PFAS compounds present in firefighter gear, the dermal absorption of PFAS, and the biological impacts of PFAS and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PAH) compounds.

“Fireground Contaminant Exposure Control: National and Regional Approaches” is scheduled from 10:30am to 11:30am and will look at current national and regional approaches used by fire departments for their exposure control policies and the training health and safety personnel and leadership on these approaches.

Also on Monday, “Emergency Action Plans and the Role of the Fire and Life Safety Director” will take place from 10:30am to 12pm and provide attendees with an understanding of emergency action plans and their importance in protecting building occupants during emergencies.

Tuesday 20 June

A key presentation “Constructing the World Cup – Qatar Civil Defense leads with Fire and Life Safety,” kicks off Tuesday’s proceedings at 8am. It will focus on the preparations undertaken by Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022, including multi-billion-dollar infrastructure expansion, construction, and renovations to support the event. The Qatar CD, under the Ministry of Interior, will share their experience and highlight successes and challenges in fire and life safety, crowd management, and stadium and facilities protection for this unique experience.

“Fire and Life Safety Design in Airports: A Case Study” will be held from 9.15-10.15am. The presentation will cover the case study of the Hamad International Airport expansion, where a fire and life safety strategy design was implemented based on NFPA codes and standards.

The session; “Technological Advances in Exit Signage” will be presented from 2-3pm and will highlight the limitations of static exit sign messaging in buildings with complicated egress layouts. Attendees will learn about technological advances in sensors, controls, and artificial intelligence algorithms being designed for emergency lighting systems to be used for dynamic directional exit signs.

The presentation “Sustainability vs. Life Safety: The Debate of the Decade” is scheduled for 3.15-4.15pm where experts from the realms of fire and life safety and sustainability will debate which aspect is more important. Attendees will hear the discussion on the use of fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon foam surfactants, the continued use of clean agent systems known for stratospheric ozone depletion, and the overabundance of water wasted by fire departments.

Also on Tuesday, “Fire Alarm Contractor Shortcuts and Mistakes: How to Avoid Common Code Violations” will take place from 4.30-6pm. The session will discuss the common code violations that fire alarm technicians regularly commit. Attendees will learn how to spot these violations early, and the discussion will cover topics from NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, and NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, with a focus on their application in the field.

Wednesday 21 June

On Wednesday, Lieutenant Joe Kovalsky’s presentation on “Mental Health Resources in the Fire Service: Tips, Advice, and More” is a much-needed discussion in the industry. It’s no secret that many firefighters and first responders battle mental health problems, but the stigma around seeking help is still a significant barrier. Attendees of this session will hear the personal journey of one firefighter who struggled with PTSD and sought treatment.

Another session on the agenda, presented by Weston Baker, AVP, Senior Engineering Technical Specialist at FM Global, is titled “How Roof Pitch and Ceiling Structures Affect Fires”. Attendees will learn about the impact that roof pitch and ceiling structural members have on the build-up of thermal layers under ceilings during a fire event.

“Solar and Energy Storage System Safety and Reliability”, presented by Bill Brooks, Principal at Brooks Engineering, is another essential topic for attendees. Attendees will learn about the current challenges that face the solar and storage industries as they play a more significant role in the supply of power across the world.

And finally, Ashley Rodrigue, Public Affairs Director at Lousiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, will present “Data-Driven Community Risk Reduction: Innovative Ideas and Action Steps”, a session which is designed to arm participants with ideas and action steps to drive strong Community Risk Reduction (CRR) initiatives. This session will connect the dots between CRR theory and practice, providing participants with the tools they need to implement effective CRR initiatives in their communities.

Fire service leaders lobby Congress for critical funding approval

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsFeatured News

Prominent figures in the fire service gathered on Capitol Hill to plead for the approval of federal funding crucial to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and key fire grant programs that safeguard communities nationwide.

Organisations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), implored the US House of Representatives to renew funding for the USFA, as well as the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant and Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) programs. The approval of these funding provisions, which are instrumental to fire safety investment, is a required step in Congress’s annual budgeting process.

The funding lifeline for both SAFER and AFG programs will cease by the fiscal year-end without congressional approval. The House Subcommittee on Research and Technology conducted a hearing to discuss future funding prospects for the USFA and its associated grant programs, during which leading fire service officials exhorted lawmakers to fully commit to bolstering public safety nationwide.

Kevin O’Connor, Assistant to the General President For Governmental Affairs and Political Action, voiced the sentiments of his colleagues at the hearing, stating: “Every fire fighter takes an oath to protect their communities to the best of their abilities, and we hold that oath sacred. We ask the U.S. Congress to have our backs and not make our jobs even more dangerous by failing to invest in the staffing, training, and equipment we need. Our safety rests in your hands.”

AFG grants are crucial for providing the necessary funding for essential equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources, thereby ensuring the safety of firefighters and other first responders as they protect the public from fire and related hazards.

SAFER program grants assist local fire departments in recruiting firefighters to adhere to staffing, response, and operational standards outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

With the help of supportive elected officials, the International and its affiliates have ensured that these grants keep hundreds of fire departments across the nation safely staffed and properly equipped, even amidst economic downturns.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Senate passed S. 870, the Fire Grants and Safety Act, with an overwhelming vote of 95 to 2. The Senate bill would reauthorise AFG and SAFER programs through 2030 and also authorise an increase of $20 million from current levels, totalling $95 million for the USFA.

The IAFF also advocates for an additional $12.5 million to be allocated to the USFA for the successful completion of their data management and IT upgrades.

Despite disputes over funding levels, Congress has consistently reauthorised the SAFER/AFG program and the USFA, ensuring that these critical fire service programs remain operational.

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator, updated lawmakers on federal initiatives to enhance the USFA and tackle emerging challenges within the fire service, such as recruitment and retention, preparing firefighters to handle the climate-driven increase in fires, establishing a comprehensive firefighter cancer registry, and providing behavioral health assistance and suicide prevention initiatives for firefighters.

Dr. Moore-Merrell also underscored the USFA’s aim to improve its data collection, analysis, and reporting capabilities for emergency calls, which includes modernising the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) into a more advanced, cloud-based data capture system, known as the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).

Senior professionals attend IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsIFSJ ExclusivesIFSJ Leaders

On 11 May 2023, 308 senior professionals from the Middle East and Africa fire and safety industry gathered for International Fire & Safety Journal’s inaugural IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference for a day filled with high level networking and lively discussion.

Attendees at the event, which was held in association with MSA Safety at the Grosvenor Hotel, Dubai Marina, UAE, praised the conference for its high quality presentations and panel sessions which covered the most pressing issues facing leaders in the fire and safety sector today. Amid the rapid fire sessions, decision makers were able to convene and engage with one another and some key industry brands who supported the show.

Throughout the day there were a number of key themes including the impacts of sustainability on fire safety, crisis management, strategic leadership and mental health and wellbeing. The twelve presentations saw presenters in panellists, including Captain Essa Ahmed Al-Mutawa, Director of the Control and Monitoring Department at Dubai Civil Defense, Engineer Salma Humaid, Head of Engineering Section at Dubai Civil Defense and Peter Stephenson, Director, Fire Safety Division at Hydrock, address and debate these key issues.

After a period of networking during the opening of the event, delegates took their seats in the conference room and were welcomed by Ian Stokes, CEO, Centurian Media Ltd. (event organiser) and Terry Johnson, Technical Service Manager at ENOC and Regional President of The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) GCC Branch.

Dubai Civil Defense

Dubai Civil Defence (DCD), the emergency management organisation in Dubai, United Arab Emirates founded in 1976 and is responsible for protecting lives, properties, and the environment in Dubai, was a strategic partner of the conference and over 50 delegates from the organisation were in attendance.

Following introductions from the Chair, H.E. Lt. General Expert Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, Director-General of Dubai Civil Defense gave a welcome address, wishing attendees: “A fruitful and amazing time.”

H.E. Excellency Brigadier Expert Ali Hassan Al Mutawa, Assistant Director General of DCD for Fire and Rescue Affairs then gave a keynote address stating: “It is a great pleasure to be among so many stars at the leaders in fire and safety conference.”

Memorandum of Understanding

Following introductions, the conference saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Dubai Civil Defense and the Institution of Fire Engineers, a  truly historic event creating a platform for sharing knowledge, learning and looking at best practices between the two organisations. The MoU was signed by Terry Johnson, IFE GCC Branch Regional President, H.E. Brigadier Expert Ali Hassan Al Mutawa, and Steve Hamm, Chief Executive of the IFE who called the MoU a ‘key milestone’.

The MoU established a branch within Dubai for the IFE that will be a space for CPD opportunities. His excellency said that DCD are an open platform and they the organisation is keen to interact with all parts of the world: “We have one goal: to make human life as safe as we can.”

DCD Readiness Programme

Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the Dubai Civil Defence’s Readiness Programme on the day’s first presentation as Captain Essa Ahmed Al-Mutawa, Director of the Control and Monitoring Department at DCD, presented the world’s first AI-enabled fire readiness programme. The programme is a pre-emptive fire management system that uses artificial intelligence to analyse past incidents and recommend changes to avoid future events.

The presentation showcased the innovative approach taken by the Dubai Civil Defence to improve fire safety standards and highlighted the importance of incorporating AI into fire management systems.

Sustainability

Next up there was a panel discussion on the impact of sustainability on fire and life safety management in buildings and construction. The discussion was chaired by Alexander Castellanos, Head of Fire & Life Safety – Middle East at WSP, and the panellists included Engineer Salma Humaid, Head of Engineering Section at DCD, Peter Stephenson, Director, Fire Safety Division at Hydrock, Steven Reilly, Principal Engineer, Fire & Life Safety Lead MENA at Cundall, and Susan Lamont, Director, Fire Group Leader Middle East at Arup.

The panel looked at how a big part of sustainability will be repurposing and reusing existing building stock and the problem that is going to create for fire safety.

Data driven insights on the fireground

Jason Traynor, the General Manager at MSA Safety, then delivered a Ted-Talk style presentation on “Data driven insights on the fireground”, as part of the Platinum Sponsor Presentation. Traynor looked at the evolution of technology and its increasingly powerful ability to capture valuable data during fire incidents.

Technology and innovation

A panel discussion on “Technology and innovation: Dealing with the pace of change” was held at the conference. Duncan J. White, Managing Editor at International Fire and Safety Journal, chaired the discussion, which featured Captain Essa Ahmed Al-Mutawa, Director of the Control and Monitoring Department at DCD, Jason Traynor, General Manager at MSA, Paul Pope, Group Business Development Director at Global Fire Equipment, and Muzaffer Ahmed Syed, Regional Manager (Firestop) at fischer FZE as panellists.

The discussion focused on how technology and innovation are rapidly transforming every aspect of our lives, including the fire safety industry.

Health and wellbeing

Duncan J. White, IFSJ Managing Editor, led a passionate discussion about it being ‘okay not to be okay’ in the session on “Health and Wellbeing: Dealing with the human issues”. Panellists Sam Malins, Group CEO at Reacton Fire Suppression, Paul Pope, Group Business Development Director at Global Fire Equipment, Sawsan Dahham, Global Head of Fire and Life Safety at Dar, Cristina Perez Domper, Regional Manager at Intertek Building and Construction, and Joanne Taylor, Business Owner at De-Wipe, all shared their experiences of mental and physical health and how it impacts leadership.

“You can’t make good decisions if you’re not in good health,” said White.

Human performance

Sinclair Duffie, Chief Fire Officer at Nawah Energy Company, gave a presentation titled “Human Performance: Consciously competent?” at the conference. The presentation focused on the concept of human performance, which encompasses the effectiveness and efficiency with which individuals perform tasks, activities, or duties. It takes into account various factors, including cognitive, physical, emotional, and social capabilities, as well as external factors like training, motivation, stress, fatigue, and environmental conditions. “We have to understand that people are fallible – even the most competent can make a mistake,” said Duffie.

Lithium-ion in focus

The conference held a panel discussion titled “Lithium-ion Batteries: Challenges, risks, and resolutions,” chaired by Sajid Raza, the CEO of Butler Engineering ME. The panel featured Mark Fenton, Sales Director – EMEA & APAC at Amerex Corporation, Peter Van Gorp, Technical Director Fire, Life Safety and Loss Prevention at HKA, Eiad Shami, Senior Consultant, Fire & Life Safety at WSP, and Mrinaal Sapru, Head of Regional Sales for Dubai Civil Defence’s Emirates Safety Laboratory.

The discussion centred around the challenges, risks, and resolutions involved in the use of lithium-ion batteries, which have many benefits but require careful consideration of safety, environmental, and social factors to ensure responsible and sustainable use.

Forever chemicals in firefighting foam

The first afternoon panel discussion at the conference was titled “PFAS in firefighting foam” and was chaired by Peter Stephenson, Director of the Fire Safety Division at Hydrock. The panellists were Tomasz Kielbasa, Certification Manager at Emirates Safety Laboratory, Even Ottesen, International Sales Manager at DAFO Fomtec AB, Andy Hall, Owner and General Manager of Hall Fire and Safety Consultants, and Terry Johnson.

The discussion focused on Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of manufactured chemicals used in firefighting foam, and the effectiveness of fluorine-free foam, testing standards, picking the best foam and its sustainable implications.

Protecting the transportation infrastructure

This was followed by panel discussion titled “The importance of protecting the transportation infrastructure,” which was chaired by Tom Wood, Regional Director, Middle East at Vortex Fire. The panel included Steve Walker, Director of Fire Safety at Hydrock, James Varley, Associate Director at WS Atkins, Engineer Pramod Challa, Senior Engineer at Dubai Civil Defense, and Terry Johnson.

The panel look at advancements in technology in building design and introducing new lightweight materials, testing, risk management, the risks posed by Lithium-ion and 3D Modelling.

Managing carcinogens

James Clarke, a Fire Officer with Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, delivered a presentation on “Managing carcinogens” at the conference. The presentation covered the risks associated with carcinogens, which are known to cause or increase the risk of developing cancer by damaging DNA or interfering with cellular processes that control cell growth and division. The cumulative effects of exposure to carcinogens over time can significantly increase the risk of cancer development.

On carcinogens in the fire sector, Clarke said: “The problem is real and is probably the single biggest threat outside of mental health to the fire industry worldwide.”

Crisis management and leadership

The conference held a panel discussion on “Crisis management,” which was chaired by Bob Rea, Director and Lead facilitator at BR Training Solutions Ltd. The panel featured Duncan J. White, Managing Editor at International Fire and Safety Journal, James Grew, Deputy Divisional Director at Hydrock, and Carlo Lovetti, Business Continuity Manager at Emirates Steel.

The discussion focused on the importance of crisis management in an organisation’s risk management strategy and the panel noted that: “If you’re not trained you can’t respond effectively.” Effective crisis management involves identifying potential crises, developing plans to mitigate and respond to them, and implementing those plans when a crisis occurs.

Finally, Howard Leedham MBE, MSc. Managing Director, ESID DMCC gave the day’s closing presentation looking at what leadership is, why it matters and if the style of leadership is important. During his presentation, Leedham asserted: “The one thing that you need to be a leader is consistency.”

A note from the IFSJ team

IFSJ would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all the speakers, exhibitors, and attendees who participated in the inaugural IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference. Your contributions and participation have played a significant role in making this event a resounding success.

The presentations and panel discussions were informative, engaging, and thought-provoking, providing valuable insights into the latest trends, challenges, and solutions in the fire and safety industry. The exhibitors showcased their products and services, which provided attendees with a glimpse of the latest innovations and technologies.

Everyone who attended brought enthusiasm, energy, and a wealth of knowledge, contributing to the lively discussions and creating a vibrant atmosphere. Once again, thank you to everyone who participated and made this conference an event to remember – we’ll be back with more Leaders events soon!

IFSJ Exclusive: Ready for anything with FIREWISE Training and Consulting

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking News

Michael Cadotte, President at FIREWISE Training & Consulting, talks NFPA fire training

What is your professional background?

I spent 30 years as Senior Fire Officer in an urban area. I spent much of the latter part of my career as Incident Commander. I was also Programme Manager in local fire college for 15 years where I implemented fire training programmes through the NFPA at the local fire college.

What is Firewise?

We are a health and safety company that focuses on more advanced areas of fire training. We also have confined space rescue teams, high angle rescue teams, and emergency response teams that are contracted out to private companies all over the world.

NFPA training has been a focus for Firewise, especially internationally, because there was a gap in training standards. We’ve opened a branch in Abu Dhabi and our focus in that area is oil and gas, all based on NFPA training.

Firewise has expanded into all that sort of training all over the world, but NFPA training has been our focal point. We also have consulting services which can help fire brigades and fire services deal with internal structure. We do risk management consulting based on NFPA standards. There is always a standard that we can fall back on. We’ll do risk management, fire audits, and NFPA audits for companies.

We get to know clients who are happy to pick up the phone and give me a call. Advice is free- it’s easy to answer a question in five minutes that could take you days to find the answer to. That’s part of the package we deliver.

What benefits does training offer?

No two calls are the same. Because of the lack of frequency of emergency calls, without training, the skills are just not there. The requirement for muscle memory, especially in practical settings such as firefighting, is critical. Training is the only way that you’re going to achieve that. It’s not going to be training on the fly.

Training is critical across the board, particularly in a profession as hazardous as firefighting where any wrong move can cause injury or worse. In a firefighting environment where time is of the essence, if you haven’t trained for a situation multiple times you’re going to forget everything in the heat of the moment.

What types of training does Firewise offer?

Our focus is NFPA standards, but that covers basically everything. Every type of training is in there from NFPA 1006 confined space high angle rescue to industrial fire brigade training. My area of expertise is fire command training and instructor training.

Anything that falls under any of those categories, we can fall back on the NFPA standard, deliver certification and thus meet a known standard. That’s the way we deliver it: based on a set curriculum.

Are there any key training programmes you would like to highlight?

NFPA 1072 hazardous materials training – any incident involving fire becomes a hazardous material incident. In the Middle East, general plants are always looking to have rescue teams trained in confined space high angle rescue.

I always go back to basic firefighter training – sometimes we evolve into so many different areas that we forget the basics. Basic training is still critical. Finally, officer training: making sure you have competent people that are leading the group.

What recent developments have impacted the training sector?

The fire service has always been reactive rather than proactive, unfortunately. Since 9/11, the focus on hazardous materials in the NFPA standard added weapons of mass destruction. I know it’s 20 years ago, but even since that time, you see for more incidents that lend themselves to hazardous materials training, and that’s not just in the US – it’s international. Responders need to have that training background, they need to be prepared.

Another is around building construction. Depending on where you are, building construction is changing. If you look at the flammable cladding of the high-rise buildings, there has been so many instances in the US, Great Britain, Dubai. You’ve seen multiple different evolutions in construction methods that has made the fire service evolve. You need to deal with that change. 

Today you’re dealing with more evolved equipment and, hopefully, better trained firefighters. But ultimately, your approach to these fires as an incident commander is critical. The job of commander is to make sure everyone goes home at the end of the day. Understanding the buildings, understanding the types of fires, and understanding what’s going on as a commander has significantly changed in the last 30-40 years.

Why is training critical?

I don’t profess to be an expert in everything and nor should anyone. I have specialists in every field that we deliver training in. I deliver the more advanced ones, but when it comes to some of those practical components such as high angle rescue, I have other experts that will deliver that training.

Even like our confined space clinical rescue teams that we bring to sites – in some industry they think they can handle it all themselves, but ultimately, at the end of the day, no one is an expert in everything.

This exclusive article was originally published in the May 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

California wildfire: Thousands evacuate as Governor declares state of emergency

by ActiveAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking News

Fuelled by extreme heat, dry forests and underbrush, the Oak Fire that began on Friday has spread rapidly in California forcing thousands of evacuations in the nearby area, with more than 400 firefighters battling the blaze

Governor of California Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for Mariposa County on Saturday due to the effects of the Oak Fire. He said the state has secured a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help ensure the availability of vital resources to suppress the fire.

Firefighters have deployed air tankers, bulldozers and hand crews to battle a fast-moving wildfire just west of Yosemite National Park on Sunday that suddenly and unpredictably grew into what has become one of the largest fires of the year.

The Oak Fire that closed within half a mile (0.8 km) from the town of Mariposa Pines, 10 miles (16 km) from Yosemite. By Sunday evening, the fire had consumed 15,603 acres (6,314 hectares) and was zero percent contained, according to the latest update from California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).

Around 3,800 people were under evacuation orders, Mariposa County Sheriff Jeremy Briese told a public briefing at a crowded auditorium in the town of Mariposa, the county seat. Cal Fire officials said they had robust firefighting teams on scene early on, but the fire progressed atypically and overran their best efforts.

The fire was moving east up into the sierra, toward the town of Mariposa Pines and in the direction of Yosemite, Justin Macomb, a Cal Fire operations section chief, told the public meeting.

“The fire quickly outflanked us. We couldn’t even attack it with the resources that we had on hand,” Macomb said. “In my career, I haven’t seen fire behaviour like that.”

Daniel Patterson, a spokesman for the Sierra National Forest, said that climate change has made the region much warmer and drier over the past 30 years which has led to California experiencing increasingly large and deadly wildfires.

Patterson said: “The fire is moving quickly. This fire was throwing embers out in front of itself for up to two miles yesterday. These are exceptional fire conditions.”

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.