IFSJ Exclusive: The digital-first approach to fire safety

by AmericasBreaking NewsBuilding Management

Robert Norton, UK Team Lead at PlanRadar, explains why digital platforms are the answer to new fire safety legislation

Fire safety in construction is facing increasing levels of scrutiny, influencing new laws and legislation. As of January 23rd 2023, updates to the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 came into play, forcing developers and asset owners to sit up and take the issue seriously. The changes are a result of widespread fire safety failings, particularly around fire door checks, which have consistently fallen short of required standards. The Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS), for example, recently found that three quarters of inspected doors failed to meet required standards.

It’s no surprise tighter legislation has come into effect. While the new laws are helping to create safer homes and buildings, particularly for those living in high-rise developments, the changes are also increasing the pressure on developers to update their approach to fire safety. Those that fail to do so face legal prosecution and segregation from the wider industry. Michael Gove MP’s six-week ultimatum for developers is a recent example – either sign contracts relating to fixing fire safety or face the consequences.

One of the major issues preventing the sector from improving its processes is knowledge of new laws and details around fire safety. Expert knowledge is few and far between – a lack of trained professionals and previous regulation has hindered standardised processes, creating a race against time to become fire safety compliant. However, many are yet to realise that the answer lies in technology that is improving fire safety record keeping and making assessments easier than ever. They just need the right tools for the job.

Digital evolution

This is where digital construction tools and platforms come in to their own. One of the biggest updates to the new regulations is the increased legal duties of the Responsible Person (RP). The RP must ensure that annual checks of flat entrance doors and quarterly checks of all fire doors in common parts are taking place in residential buildings over 11 metres in height. What’s more, the RP must submit critical building information on the layout of buildings and flag any faults of fire equipment to the local fire and rescue services. The latter of which needs to be delivered digitally.

Opting for a digital platform where proof of fire safety checks can be logged and recorded can be invaluable for RPs trying to ensure a watertight audit trail. Having information stored digitally makes delivering important information more secure and easier to manage.

Not only that, but by choosing easy-to-use digital systems, teams can adopt tech straight into their working day, improving both the accuracy and efficiency of day-to-day activities. A digital footprint of checks around key firefighting equipment can also help keep local fire services up-to-date, creating running logs to keep them well-informed on potential issues. Importantly, working in this way is helping to achieve the all-important digital ‘golden thread’ of information – one of the key recommendations of the new and improved Building Safety Act.

Compliance can also be improved through greater communication between teams. The latest on-the-go software allows ‘tickets’ or jobs to be assigned to specific individuals for clarity as to ‘who did what and when’. It’s also possible to send instant messages along with images and videos for further proof that work has been carried out to a high standard.

Collating this information digitally means that fire safety reports can be created in seconds, saving businesses the laborious task of manually writing up reports and unnecessarily duplicating work. We have found platforms can save users as much as seven hours a week on reporting, helping to claw back valuable time better spent elsewhere.

Combined with intuitive design, digital platforms allow teams to hit the ground running without the need for time-intensive training, they simply download the app or platform and start using the tech right away. Against the backdrop of a growing labour crisis, this ease of use couldn’t be more imperative.

Just the beginning

A digital-first approach is a sign of the times, and it’s likely that these new regulations are just the beginning. Being able to navigate data governance to meet new legal challenges with ease will be invaluable to companies, particularly as the ‘safety-first approach’ increases within the sector. Let’s not forget that the government has the construction sector in its sights, and is using its full weight to ensure RPs are held accountable.

For those in the industry feeling underprepared or overwhelmed by the idea of increased safety protocols and compliance, the time to act is now. Adopting a ‘digital-first’ approach is paramount, and it no longer needs to be complex or overly expensive. Tech represents a new age in fire safety – offering more accurate and time-efficient fire safety checks, quicker fire assessments, all through a tamperproof digital audit trail. It’s now in the hands of building owners to deliver the change the industry so desperately needs.

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

Rosenbauer unveils two new firefighting boots

by AmericasFeatured NewsPPEProducts

Broadening the choice of boots for firefighters

Rosenbauer, a renowned provider of safety equipment, has announced the launch of two new additions to its range of protective footwear: the B2 and the B3 Cross. These innovative boots, designed with the needs of the wearer in mind, are set to augment the existing line-up of mid-priced options. The new models are certified to the rigorous EN 15090 F2A HI3 CI AN SRC standards, affirming their ability to provide optimal protection and comfort.

Enhanced design for maximum comfort and adaptability

According to the company: “The dynamic cut and the ergonomic construction guarantee a very high wearing comfort.” Four diverse entry and release systems enable the boots to be tailored perfectly to the wearer’s individual needs and conditions, allowing adjustments to the foot, ankle, and lower leg. The new boots are designed not only to meet operational conditions but also to accommodate the wearer’s anatomy and usage habits.

B2 boot: Quick-entry, lace-up option for the perfect fit

The B2 boot, replacing the soon-to-be-discontinued Tornado model, is a novel lace-up design featuring a quick-entry and two-zone lacing system. The unique lacing allows for different tensioning for the forefoot and leg, accommodating those with unequal proportions, such as wider forefoot and narrow ankle or stronger calves but narrow insteps. Once laced, the tension distribution is held constant with the aid of two lacing stoppers situated at ankle height. The B2 boot is ideally suited for everyday use and prolonged firefighting operations, as it can be rapidly worn and ensures an ideal fit.

B3 Cross boot: Lightweight, versatile choice for rescue operations

The B3 Cross, a short boot, stands out for its light weight — just 2.3 kg per pair in size 43 — and the reliable protection it offers up to the ankle, making it an excellent choice for rescue operations. The proven lacing system from its predecessor, the Twister-cross, features a tear-resistant stainless steel cord tightened and fixed with a push rotary knob, easily released when removing the boot. Its convenience over traditional lacing systems lies in one-handed operation and adjustability even in the thick of action. The B3 Cross suits those with relatively even anatomy.

Availability and unique features of the B2 and B3 Cross boots

Both the B2 and B3 Cross boots are available in sizes 36 to 52 and in widths 10 and 12. They will be available for purchase online from July and August respectively, and can be pre-ordered immediately via sales partners.

A key characteristic of these boots is their superior comfort, facilitated by high-tech materials and an athletic design. Memory foam reinforcement around the ankle provides cushioning and protection, while a multi-layer, highly flexible Sympatex membrane allows for excellent climate regulation. These boots also feature a water and dirt-repellent European-produced buckskin upper material. The durable outsole provides optimal grip across temperatures ranging from -20°C to +200°C and on varied terrains.

Rosenbauer’s new B2 and B3 Cross boots join the already available B1 slip-on boot and B4 top model in the online shop and through sales partners. This line of boots maintains Rosenbauer’s commitment to providing high-quality, comfortable, and protective footwear for those in the line of fire.

NFPA finalises board election including key international member

by AmericasBreaking NewsPeople

Completion of board elections for fire protection body

On June 19, 2023, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) concluded its board of directors’ election at its annual meeting. The event was significant, marking the inclusion of esteemed new members and the re-election of an established leader.

New member brings international experience to the table

Brigadier General Mohamed Abdulla Al-Nuaimi from the Civil Defense, UAE, was a standout inductee. His exceptional career record in fire protection and safety will be an asset to the board. Since 2014, he has served as the Director General of the Department of Fire, Protection, and Safety Affairs at the General Command of Civil Defense in the UAE. His substantial contributions there have involved influencing key policies on Civil Defense Centre classification based on response time and speciality areas. He has also been instrumental in ensuring readiness in fire combat.

After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Legal and Police Sciences from United Arab Emirates University, Al-Nuaimi began his professional journey at the Dubai Civil Defense Centers. His initial role as a fire and rescue officer eventually led him to his current role within the General Directorate of Civil Defense.

Onieal continues his term for a second spell

The re-election of Denis Onieal, the former US Deputy Fire Administrator, was another noteworthy event. Onieal will now serve the NFPA board for a second three-year term, leveraging his deep experience within the American fire administration.

Acclaim and honours for new appointee

Al-Nuaimi’s industry contributions have attracted widespread recognition. The Brigadier General has received numerous awards, such as the Fireland Magazine Award for Best Practices in Fire and Emergency Affairs and the 2020 Middle East Excellence Award in the Community Security, Safety, and Protection Category.

His tenure in the service has also seen him serve on various committees: “He has been the chairman of the Standing Committee for the Evaluation and Development of the Readiness and Efficiency of the Civil Defense Sector, and a member of the Standing Committee for the Development of Civil Defense Centers in Abu Dhabi,” the NFPA stated. Al-Nuaimi also presided over the NFPA Advisory Committee for the Middle East and North Africa.

MoU signed between CTIF and Organización de Bomberos Americanos

by AmericasFeatured News

Strategic partnership formed between global fire and rescue organisations

In a significant development during the Delegates Assembly held in Vienna, the Comité Technique International de Prevention et d’Extinction de Feu (CTIF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South American fire brigade, Organización de Bomberos Americanos (OBA).

Shared goals to enhance the safety and wellbeing of communities

The MoU outlined the shared mission of the OBA and CTIF: “Advancing the safety and wellbeing of people through the exchange of experience and information.” Consequently, both organisations have agreed to collaborate and support each other, as specified in the MoU.

Aiming to build mutual understanding and competency

Under this partnership, both parties aim to foster trust and advance competency – a critical aspect within both organisations, pertaining to the technical proficiency of first responders dealing with emergencies. This joint effort aims to enhance prevention, protection, and response measures to fire and other emergencies.

Open communication and annual meetings

To further strengthen their partnership, the MoU states: “A representative from each partner may attend each organisation’s annual or other designated meeting on invitation by a partner for the purpose of allowing the exchange of knowledge and to aid the development and understanding of each partner’s role.”

Associate level recognition and logistical details

Both organisations recognise each other as an associate, in line with their respective constitutions. They can thus enjoy the benefits of this level of membership at no cost, with no voting rights or influence over each other’s operations. As part of their cooperative efforts, they will provide complimentary registrations to attend each other’s annual assembly, conducted in English. However, all associated costs including travel and accommodation will be the responsibility of each organisation, and neither party will incur any other expenses related to this MoU. This MoU will renew annually unless terminated by either party with a 30-day written notice.

The MoU was signed by Vice President of OBA, Juan Carlos Field, and President of CTIF, Milan Dubravac, marking a new era of collaboration and mutual support between these two prominent fire and rescue organisations.

US Fire Administration publishes comprehensive recruitment and retention guide

by AmericasFeatured News

In response to the urgent need for effective strategies in recruiting and retaining volunteers for emergency services, the US Fire Administration (USFA) has released a comprehensive manual, aptly named “Retention and Recruitment for the Volunteer Emergency Services.”

A holistic approach to recruitment and retention challenges

Acknowledging the significant role volunteer fire and emergency medical services (EMS) departments play in community safety, the USFA aims to provide tools and insights to navigate the persistent challenge of securing and maintaining a dedicated volunteer base. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the number of volunteer firefighters has decreased markedly from 897,750 in 1984 to 676,900 in 2020. To reverse this trend, the guide takes a comprehensive approach, identifying and tackling the factors that contribute to such a decline including time demands, increased training requirements, and leadership issues.

Chief Richard Patrick, director of the National Fire and EMS Division at the USFA, stated: “By addressing critical challenges, collaborating with local governments, implementing effective recruitment and retention strategies, and providing guidance on marketing, data utilisation and funding, this manual offers a comprehensive resource for volunteer departments to overcome obstacles and ensure the continued safety and protection of their communities.”

Building bridges with local government

A significant component of the guide delves into the relationship between volunteer departments and local governments. As local governments have the responsibility to provide fire protection services, the manual focuses on the need for effective collaboration and shared responsibility to ensure the necessary support, particularly in terms of funding, is secured.

Insightful recruitment strategies

The guide also brings into focus recruitment strategies for volunteer fire and emergency services. These strategies emphasise locating potential volunteers, outlining effective onboarding processes, and understanding the impact of department culture and image on recruitment. The manual further highlights the importance of cultivating diversity and inclusivity within the ranks of the departments for them to better serve their diverse communities.

Retention strategies for a diverse and inclusive volunteer force

The USFA manual also extensively covers retention strategies, proposing an annual retention assessment to keep up to date with the evolving needs of volunteers and potential issues. A wide array of topics, from effective leadership and health and safety considerations to volunteer benefits and family support, are covered to ensure a comprehensive approach to volunteer retention.

Additionally, sections on marketing, data-driven recruitment, and retention efforts and funding strategies are also included in the manual.

In providing such an extensive manual, the USFA is ensuring that volunteer departments have the resources they need to attract and retain dedicated volunteers. By implementing the strategies and practices laid out in the guide, these departments are better equipped to fulfil their crucial role in community safety.

NFPA CEO advocates for embracing digital transformation and updated safety measures

by AmericasBreaking NewsEvents

In a compelling address at the General Session of the annual NFPA Conference and Expo held in Las Vegas, Jim Pauley, President and CEO of the NFPA, advocated for the adoption of digital transformation and the evolution of safety measures to keep pace with an increasingly dynamic world.

Digital transformation, a driving force for industry change

Addressing a diverse gathering from across the United States and over 60 countries, Pauley elaborated on the dramatic effect of digital transformation on everyday tasks: “It is necessary to adapt to these changes to create value for users, improve efficiency, and achieve better outcomes.” He pointed out the facts: this year, digital transformation initiatives are forecasted to generate $2.3 trillion in spending, with nine out of ten executives agreeing that it will profoundly transform their sectors.

The urgency for advanced safety measures

In his address, Pauley also emphasised the need for heightened safety measures to complement emerging technologies. His specific references included lithium-ion batteries, which power a wide range of devices and extensive energy storage systems globally. He recalled unfortunate incidents and acknowledged the NFPA’s role in reducing such risks by creating standards, training experts, and spearheading research.

Pauley shone a spotlight on the ongoing threats of domestic and wildfires, reporting a rising trend in home fire fatalities over the past ten years, and reminding us that around 75% of fire deaths occur in homes: “There is a clear need for the installation of functioning smoke alarms and sprinklers.” He also highlighted the NFPA Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem’s role in promoting this and spoke about the association’s Outthink Wildfire initiative, which advocates for stronger policy measures in areas vulnerable to wildfires.

NFPA’s strides in digital evolution

Pauley outlined the NFPA’s digital progression, focusing on the growth of their main digital platform, NFPA LiNK. This platform, home to nearly 1500 of the NFPA’s codes and standards translated into multiple languages, offers instantaneous access to safety regulations and has grown exponentially since its inception: “It aids companies, government bodies, and individuals alike in their journey towards digital transformation.”

The CEO highlighted the NFPA’s digital efforts in their training and certification programmes, citing the provision of more than 300 online courses and the introduction of an augmented reality learning experience for wildfire mitigation. The NFPA’s online training programme for electric vehicles has now reached over three hundred thousand first responders.

Lastly, Pauley announced a comprehensive update to the NFPA website, due to provide a smooth, user-friendly experience with improved search functions and a built-in translation platform when it becomes operational later this summer. He encouraged attendees to provide feedback on the new site at the NFPA stand at the Expo.

A call to action from the NFPA

To conclude, Pauley reiterated the NFPA’s determination to address the fire, life, and electrical safety challenges of our times, emphasising the critical role of the community in this journey. His closing remark encapsulated his inclusive call to action: “It’s a big world. Let’s protect it together.”

Editor’s Product: PAC’s Fastlok Short assembly

by AmericasFeatured NewsProducts

Performance Advantage Company’s Fastlok Short assembly accommodates the changing shape of firefighting tools

Performance Advantage Company (PAC) understands that the best help it can give a firefighter is to develop a system where they can know exactly where their tools are mounted on truck – and to make it possible for the tools to be quickly and easily put to use. 

The tool mount manufacturer is passionate about providing high quality, durable, reliable, safe, tested, and easy to use mounting brackets for nearly any kind of tool that you can imagine. As the firefighting industry continues to introduce new tools, equipment, methods and technology, so, too, does PAC. At any point in time dozens of new designs and improvements are being developed, at PAC, to keep up with the ever-changing needs of the firefighting industry.

Once such product that has recently been improved is what we call the Fastlok Short assembly.

Kris Young, Sales and Marketing Specialist at PAC explains: “You place your equipment between two opposing modules. One of the modules has a high-quality, adjustable, elastic strap clamped to it, and at the end of that strap is a locking pin that fits into the cam lock lever of the opposing module.  The design allows the user to effortlessly swing the strap over their equipment, position the strap’s locking pin into the opposing cam lock lever and flip the lever to securely tighten their equipment on the go.”

The lever, says Young, is designed so that it can be operated while wearing heavy gloves or mittens on a cold winter’s day: “Which is important in our part of the world”.  Originally these modules were designed for equipment with a higher profile (for example, a saw or water tank). The minimum height (profile) requirement, for equipment being secured with this bracket had been 5-3/8″.  These improved modules will accommodate lower profile items down to 4-1/8″ in height, offering the best of both worlds: the functionality of a Super Adjustamount with the preferred camlock lever of the Fastlok. 

“Feedback from our customers indicated that they prefer this bracket over many other solutions because of the ease of use,” says Young. “Now, they can use it with a much wider variety of equipment.  Importantly, there have been many changes in the shapes and sizes of battery operated saws – and this bracket has now been refined to accommodate those changes.”

Part of the genius of this product is that it can secure square items, round items (with the accompanying wedge blocks, tall items, and now items as low as 4-1/8″ in height). With the flip of a cam-lock lever, firefighting equipment can be quickly, firmly and safely secured with no rattle or damaging vibrations. 

Once again, PAC is ready with the right solution for the fire service’s ever changing tool mounting needs with a product that is designed to last a lifetime.

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

The last word on shoring with Holmatro

by AmericasBreaking NewsFirefighting Equipment

Mattijn de Graaf, R&D Director of the Holmatro Group, explains the design philosophy behind OmniShore, Holmatro’s all-new rescue shoring system

Tell me about Holmatro – what work do you do in the fire and safety sector?

Holmatro was founded in the Netherlands in 1967. We are a leading global supplier of rescue equipment and services. We have around 300 employees, located in the Netherlands, USA and China. Next to these three headquarters, our brand is represented in more than 160 countries by our extensive global sales and service network, consisting of more than 400 active authorized business partners.

Holmatro’s rescue equipment is mostly used in the fields of vehicle rescue, disaster rescue and special tactics. To make sure that our users can fulfil their specialized tasks, we aim to be the best-in-class industry market leader. We do this by using game changing technology.

What is OmniShore and why was it developed?

OmniShore is an all-new rescue shoring system, designed from the ground up. It was developed to make rescue shoring operations safer, faster and easier. That is not just a catchphrase, but the key focus of our design philosophy. We wanted to create a system that is compact, intuitive and above all safe.

How does this new shoring system support firefighters during rescue operations?

Holmatro OmniShore is the only solution that helps rescuers overcome all shoring challenges with a system of just six different struts and no fixed length extension pipes. Guaranteed to save weight and space on their truck.

In addition, OmniShore enables first responders to build every construction quickly and easily. Its patented Trident Coupler ensures a safe connection between two struts and offers a seamless setup of lengths up to 17 feet or 5.2 meters.

And finally, Holmatro OmniShore’s patented OmniLock system supports rescuers in monitoring and operating struts from a safe distance. This means less manpower is required and no one needs to be near a moving load.

In what kinds of situations is OmniShore designed to be used?

You can shore it all with OmniShore! It has been designed to do more with less, so with a limited number of components rescuers will be able to handle every shoring operation safely and successfully. Whether it’s vehicle shoring, trench shoring, high directionals or structural shoring, OmniShore can do it all.

In terms of innovation, what do the next few years look like for Holmatro?

Of course, we can’t go into too much detail about the patented innovations that we are working on at the moment. But innovation is in our DNA, so you can expect us to keep coming up with groundbreaking innovations that make the world safer, healthier and more productive.

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

Revised firefighter medical requirements released in updated edition NFPA 1582

by AmericasFeatured NewsSafety

Unveiling an updated medical program standard

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released an updated 2022 edition of its occupational medical program standard, applicable to both prospective and existing firefighters. The revisions to this comprehensive standard, previously distinguished as NFPA 1582, embody the alterations from the Technical Interim Amendment (TIA) 1582-22-1.

Equal medical requirements for prospective and current firefighters

The newly revised standard is intended to offer guidance to physicians and healthcare providers responsible for the occupational health programs of fire departments. Its purpose is to ensure that prospective and current firefighters are fit for their required duties and to minimise the risk of work-related injuries and illnesses. The 2022 edition streamlines medical requirements and evaluations, which are now equally applicable to both prospective and serving firefighters.

Addressing potential discrimination in firefighter recruitment

Previously, the standard provided different medical stipulations for ‘candidates’ (individuals seeking to join a fire department) and ‘members’ (current active firefighters). There were certain health conditions, known as Category A Medical Conditions, that only applied to candidates, potentially barring them from firefighter employment. This differentiation has been rectified in the 2022 update.

The crucial role of the task group and the Council’s decision

A task group, comprising medical doctors, legal representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), among others, developed the TIA. Although it did not initially pass the ballot, the FEMA Director of the Office of Civil Rights and two medical doctors appealed to the Standards Council, which subsequently issued the TIA in Decision #23-2. The appeal emerged from concerns that the previous version of the standard could potentially violate civil rights laws and unjustly affect job applicants, leading to possible discriminatory standards.

In their decision, the Standards Council highlighted that the use of potentially discriminatory standards was an “untenable position” for fire departments and applicants alike. They underlined their commitment to action, stating their need to address these significant legal and funding risks to fire departments nationwide and rectify any immediate concerns around potential discrimination.

OroraTech advances wildfire management with space-based thermal monitoring

by AmericasFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Satellite-enabled fire monitoring unveiled

Space-age thermal intelligence company, OroraTech, has effectively established the latest thermal sensor in a commercial orbit network. By persistently tracking the temperature of the Earth, clients – including fire departments, forest services, and utility companies – can now receive real-time wildfire detection, ongoing situation updates and predictive data to better manage wildfires.

Early access programme provides real-time fire detection

OroraTech’s Early Access Programme offers immediate fire detection, capable of identifying bush-scale blazes and providing accurate fire perimeter locations within minutes. The programme also encompasses an on-demand tasking service during essential afternoon periods, thus enabling clients to keep a close eye on crisis zones. The company’s ultimate aim is to deliver uninterrupted fire monitoring and instant predictions on a global level, all in real time.

Thomas Grübler, CEO and co-founder of OroraTech, spoke on the potential impact of this technology, stating that “wildfires pose an existential threat” to our societies and economies. “We want to give our customers back control during catastrophic events,” Grübler emphasised.

A precursor sensor exceeds expectations

Having operated a preliminary sensor in orbit for over a year, OroraTech has found its technology to be exceeding expectations. Originally intended as a proof of concept, the sensor now actively serves as a wildfire monitoring tool for clients worldwide. A case in point is SOPFEU, Quebec’s provincial fire agency, which is currently using the sensor to manage over 150 active fires. Looking forward, the agency is eagerly awaiting the transition to satellite monitoring, set to improve operational efficiency, lower pilot risks, and provide enhanced situational awareness.

Complete thermal intelligence suite and diverse applications

OroraTech offers a comprehensive suite of Thermal Intelligence services, ranging from proprietary real-time data via its sensor network to AI-powered analytics and actionable insights. Clients can access these services through the existing Wildfire Solution platform, already in use on six continents, or via specific APIs.

Beyond assisting in wildfire management, the data provided by OroraTech is also applicable in a variety of sectors. The thermal data offers valuable insight for applications such as food security, drought mitigation, and insurance. This information is also available on geospatial data platforms.