NFPA to share fire safety expertise at 4th International Fire Operations Conference in Saudi Arabia

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

NFPA to participate in 4th International Fire Operations Conference in Riyadh

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is set to participate in the 4th International Fire Operations Conference (IFOC), scheduled to take place from 3rd to 7th November 2024 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

This international event will cover a range of topics on advancements in fire prevention, safety protocols, emergency response, and crisis management strategies.

The IFOC aims to bring together industry thought leaders, practitioners, and innovators from around the world to discuss emerging trends and best practices.

NFPA, with over 130 years of experience in fire safety, has actively contributed as a technical partner in developing the conference theme, agenda, and speaker lineup.

The event will feature NFPA-led workshops and panel discussions designed to address critical challenges in fire operations.

Insights from NFPA leadership

Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development for MENA at NFPA, expressed the organisation’s goals for the event.

Kamal stated: “With over 300 codes and standards, and recognized globally for our innovative research, professional training, public education, outreach, and advocacy, NFPA is honoured to share its expertise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the 4th International Fire Operations Conference.

“We aspire to collaborate with leaders across the health and safety sectors to uphold the highest standards and create a future where everyone is safe, both at home and in the workplace.”

Kamal and other NFPA experts will participate in discussions on essential topics, including “NFPA Codes & Standards: How to Use Them Effectively,” and “Critical issue of fires in buildings under construction.”

They will also conduct interactive workshops on fire safety’s future, using tools such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for immersive learning experiences.

Certification and training opportunities

Conference attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights into the NFPA’s training and certification offerings, including guidance on preparing for the Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) certification.

NFPA representatives will outline the practical applications of the new Fire Protection Handbook (FPH), helping fire safety professionals effectively utilise this comprehensive resource.

The NFPA’s participation underscores its dedication to expanding fire and life safety standards across the Middle East.

By facilitating collaborative dialogues with local and regional leaders, NFPA continues its mission of advancing community safety and enhancing resilience in infrastructure within Saudi Arabia and the broader region.

NFPA to share fire safety expertise at 4th International Fire Operations Conference in Saudi Arabia: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is set to join the 4th International Fire Operations Conference (IFOC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 3rd to 7th November 2024.

The conference will feature sessions on emerging fire safety technologies, protocols, and best practices.

Dana Kamal, NFPA’s Director of International Business Development for MENA, expressed the organisation’s commitment to sharing its expertise with participants, including discussions on NFPA standards and fire protection strategies.

NFPA-led workshops will address key industry issues such as fires in buildings under construction and offer certification guidance using the Fire Protection Handbook (FPH).

Through its involvement, NFPA aims to promote safer communities and support infrastructure resilience in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

FIA and ITN launch fire safety education programme for UK communities

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsSafety

Programme highlights fire safety education and community protection

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced the launch of a new educational programme titled Fire Safety: Prioritising Prevention and Protection, produced in partnership with ITN Business.

According to the FIA, the programme aims to promote fire safety awareness and preparedness across the UK, focusing on how education can help reduce fire risks and safeguard communities.

The broadcast, which is designed to offer viewers practical insights into fire prevention and emergency response, covers a range of essential topics, including the safe use and disposal of electrical equipment, the importance of smoke alarms, and the critical role of community-level emergency preparedness.

Industry experts, such as senior opinion leaders from the FIA, Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), and the Fire Protection Association (FPA), have contributed to the programme, offering their perspectives on advancements in fire safety and the role of education in protecting lives.

Spotlight on fire safety training and preparedness

The programme also showcases training initiatives aimed at decreasing preventable deaths by equipping individuals with knowledge on fire risk management and safe practices.

These initiatives are particularly focused on educating people about fire safety in residential settings, highlighting the life-saving potential of smoke alarms and proper emergency response.

Practical training modules and public information segments are incorporated into the programme to guide individuals and communities on essential fire prevention strategies.

By enhancing public understanding of fire risks, the programme seeks to empower viewers with the knowledge to reduce household and community fire hazards.

Innovation and real-world case studies in fire safety

In addition to educational content, Fire Safety: Prioritising Prevention and Protection includes case studies from organisations in the fire safety industry that are developing new technologies and solutions to enhance fire protection.

Filmed on location, these case studies provide real-world examples of innovative fire safety practices, from cutting-edge equipment to advanced emergency response methods, aiming to illustrate the evolving landscape of fire safety.

The programme places a strong emphasis on technological advancements and new fire safety products that can improve both residential and community fire protection.

By featuring these case studies, the programme demonstrates the ongoing efforts within the fire safety sector to adapt to emerging fire safety challenges and to develop practical solutions that enhance public safety.

Interview with FIA CEO on fire sector competency and support

A featured interview with FIA CEO Ian Moore sheds light on the role of competency within the fire safety sector.

Moore shares his views on tackling issues of professional competency, explaining how the FIA supports its members and the broader fire safety community in addressing these challenges.

The interview covers key topics such as the importance of upskilling within the industry and how these efforts contribute to the future direction of the fire safety sector.

Moore discusses the initiatives led by the FIA to support ongoing training and professional development, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to fostering a highly competent and responsive fire safety workforce.

He also highlights future goals, indicating how the FIA intends to drive progress within the sector by promoting continuous education and supporting member organisations in enhancing safety practices.

FIA and ITN launch fire safety education programme for UK communities: Summary

The FIA, in collaboration with ITN Business, has introduced Fire Safety: Prioritising Prevention and Protection, a programme aimed at promoting fire safety education across the UK.

The broadcast highlights critical aspects of fire safety, including training for risk management and emergency response, as well as the safe disposal of electrical equipment.

Expert contributions from the FIA, IFE, and FPA are featured, alongside real-world case studies that demonstrate advancements in fire safety technology and practices.

An interview with FIA CEO Ian Moore further discusses competency in the fire sector and the FIA’s support initiatives for its members.

Fire risk assessors need mandatory accreditation, says FPA’s Howard Passey in response to Grenfell Tower Inquiry

by Associations and OrganisationsBuilding ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Grenfell Tower Inquiry highlights failures in fire risk assessments

FPA, Senior Technical Consultant Howard Passey has commented on the crucial role of fire risk assessors (FRAs) in light of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

The inquiry exposed serious shortcomings in fire risk assessments at Grenfell Tower, where assessors failed to identify critical hazards, including the flammable cladding, faulty fire doors, and inadequate evacuation plans for vulnerable residents.

Passey emphasised that these failures raise concerns about the entire profession: “The assessments carried out for Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation (KCTMO) failed to identify critical fire hazards, such as the flammability of the external cladding system, inadequate fire door performance, and the lack of adequate evacuation strategies for vulnerable residents.”

He voiced support for the inquiry’s recommendation for a mandatory accreditation system to ensure fire risk assessors’ competence.

The need for better regulation of fire risk assessors

The inquiry report calls for a standardised, mandatory accreditation system to certify fire risk assessors.

Passey pointed out that despite years of industry efforts to introduce competency standards, the government had previously resisted prescriptive regulations.

However, after the Grenfell disaster, the push for stricter controls has gained momentum, with new legislation such as the Building Safety Act 2022 and updates to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Passey stated: “Even before the devastating Grenfell Tower fire of 2017, the industry had made numerous efforts to engage government officials in designing regulatory requirements that would introduce ‘mandatory minimum standards of competence for training and accrediting fire risk assessors.’”

Developing competency standards for fire risk assessors

The fire safety industry has been actively working to improve fire risk assessor competency.

Organisations like the Fire Sector Federation (FSF) and the British Standards Institute (BSI) are developing a framework for assessing competency, which includes a tiered system for different building risks.

These efforts aim to ensure that fire risk assessors are properly trained and certified, particularly for high-risk buildings.

Passey explained: “The FSF has since, with BSI, been developing the framework into a British Standard as part of the BS 8670 Built Environment – Core criteria for building safety in competence frameworks.”

Concerns over fire risk assessors’ responsibilities and liability

Passey also raised concerns about the increasing responsibilities placed on fire risk assessors.

He questioned how much accountability should rest on individual assessors, especially given the complexity of modern buildings and the need for specialised knowledge in areas like fire engineering.

He noted that some tasks, such as assessing smoke control systems, might require input from a fire engineer rather than an FRA.

“There is an undue expectation that FRAs will be able to analyse the construction of an external wall, be an expert on the installation of fire doors, and even understand the individual needs of vulnerable residents when considering evacuation strategies,” Passey said, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines on the scope of an FRA’s responsibilities.

Fire risk assessors need mandatory accreditation, says FPA’s Howard Passey: Summary

Howard Passey, Senior Technical Consultant for the Fire Protection Association (FPA), has highlighted the crucial role of fire risk assessors (FRAs) in light of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

The inquiry revealed failures in the fire risk assessments conducted at Grenfell, raising questions about the competence of FRAs.

Passey voiced support for the inquiry’s recommendation for mandatory accreditation and standardised competency standards.

He also pointed to ongoing efforts by industry organisations to improve the certification and training of FRAs.

However, Passey raised concerns about the growing responsibilities placed on FRAs, calling for clearer guidelines on their role and liability, particularly for high-risk buildings.

Passey’s full comment can be found here.

FIA annual report highlights progress in fire safety and professionalism in 2024

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

FIA’s focus on advancing fire safety in the UK

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published its Annual Report for 2024, detailing advancements in fire safety and professionalism across the industry.

The FIA highlighted key achievements, including efforts to influence fire safety policy, enhanced training programmes, and increased membership.

The FIA’s ongoing response to findings from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry has been a significant driver behind its push for stricter fire safety standards and greater accountability within the sector.

The report also mentioned the opening of a Northern hub in Northwich, Cheshire, which includes a state-of-the-art training and event centre.

This new facility has strengthened the FIA’s capacity to deliver training and showcase industry innovations, further supporting its mission to raise standards.

International expansion through FIA Cyprus

In October 2023, the FIA expanded internationally with the establishment of FIA Cyprus, launched during a Fire Summit event.

This event brought together 15 FIA member companies from the UK and underscored the FIA’s commitment to promoting best practices beyond British borders.

FIA’s international initiatives aim to elevate global fire safety standards.

The success of the Cyprus expansion is expected to lead to further international endeavours, with the organisation focusing on spreading its influence and knowledge to other regions.

Training programme sees significant growth

The report highlighted the FIA’s achievements in training, with more than 6,000 delegates trained in 2024—a 26.9% increase compared to the previous year.

The Northwich training centre played a pivotal role in this expansion, providing practical, hands-on experience.

New courses, such as Fire Safety Awareness of Lithium-Ion Batteries, were introduced, reflecting the FIA’s responsiveness to emerging safety challenges.

The FIA is also preparing to launch a new Fire Risk Assessment course and further develop its Hampton training facility, ensuring that its educational offerings continue to meet industry needs.

Membership growth and technical leadership

The FIA experienced a 63% growth in membership, with 159 new companies joining in 2024.

The organisation also reported a 92.5% member retention rate, attributing this to the tangible value of membership benefits, including high-quality training and a role in shaping industry standards.

The FIA’s Technical Councils and Working Groups continue to influence the industry, aligning training with updated regulations like BS 5839-1.

These efforts ensure that FIA training remains the benchmark for fire safety professionals across the sector.

Fire Industry Association releases 2024 annual report highlighting fire safety progress and training growth: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) released its 2024 Annual Report, focusing on the advancement of fire safety and professionalism.

The report highlights the FIA’s response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, international expansion through the launch of FIA Cyprus, and the establishment of a Northern training hub in Northwich, Cheshire.

The FIA trained over 6,000 delegates in 2024, a 26.9% increase, and introduced new courses such as Fire Safety Awareness of Lithium-Ion Batteries.

Membership also grew by 63%, with 159 new companies joining.

The FIA remains committed to driving improvements in fire safety through policy advocacy, technical leadership, and high-quality training.

NAREDCO partners with FSAI to enhance fire safety in India’s real estate sector

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Collaboration to improve fire safety and security standards

As reported by the Hindustan Times, the National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI).

The agreement, announced on 5th October 2024, aims to improve fire safety, life safety, and security standards across India’s real estate sector.

The partnership is intended to encourage the sharing of knowledge, technical expertise, and advancements in fire protection and security systems.

G Hari Babu, National President of NAREDCO, said: “The MoU with FSAI establishes a more integrated approach to real estate development in Delhi.

The combined efforts of both organizations will enhance building safety, streamline regulations, and promote sustainable practices in India’s urban growth.”

Focus on knowledge sharing and technical advancements

A key objective of the partnership is the facilitation of knowledge exchange between NAREDCO and FSAI, particularly in the areas of fire safety, life safety, and security technologies.

Through this collaboration, both organisations seek to improve safety protocols in real estate projects by implementing the latest technological advancements.

Joint initiatives such as workshops, seminars, and conferences will be organised to keep members informed about new developments and best practices in fire and security systems.

These programs will help raise awareness and elevate safety standards across the industry.

Establishing global benchmarks for safety standards

In addition to knowledge sharing, NAREDCO and FSAI aim to set industry standards for fire and life safety systems in real estate developments.

The MoU outlines that these standards will align with global benchmarks, ensuring that the Indian real estate sector adheres to internationally recognised safety protocols.

Saurab Aggarwal, President of FSAI, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating: “Partnering with NAREDCO is a crucial step for enhancing fire safety in Delhi’s real estate sector.

“Together, we aim to create safer environments for residents and workers, ensuring that safety becomes an integral part of every development.”

Promoting networking and industry collaboration

Another aspect of the MoU is the promotion of membership networking.

NAREDCO and FSAI plan to foster collaboration among their members by encouraging active participation in initiatives focused on enhancing safety and security.

This network will aim to build a strong community dedicated to improving fire and life safety standards in India’s growing real estate sector.

Both organisations intend to work closely with government agencies and industry stakeholders to enhance regulations and promote the safety of the built environment.

This initiative is expected to lead to safer living and working conditions across the country.

NAREDCO partners with FSAI to enhance fire safety in India’s real estate sector: Summary

The National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) has signed an MoU with the Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI) to improve fire safety, life safety, and security standards in India’s real estate sector.

Announced on 5th October 2024, the partnership aims to facilitate knowledge sharing and promote technical advancements in fire protection and security systems.

Both organisations will collaborate on industry standards that align with global benchmarks and will conduct joint programs to educate members on best practices.

This initiative is expected to enhance building safety regulations and promote safer environments across India.

Firefighters demand urgent action to rebuild UK fire service

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News
Image Credit: Jess Hurd

Thousands rally in London to demand fire service reform

Around a thousand firefighters and fire control staff gathered in central London on 8th October to call for urgent reforms to the UK’s fire and rescue services.

As reported by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), the rally highlighted key concerns including job losses, underfunding, and growing disparities in fire cover across the country.

The event featured speeches from Matt Wrack, the general secretary of the FBU, alongside international representatives from Greece and Italy.

The protest was a direct response to the effects of 14 years of Conservative government policies, which saw a 20% reduction in firefighter numbers and a 30% cut in central government funding.

As a result, response times are now at their worst recorded levels.

Fire Brigades Union calls for national standards

One of the central demands raised at the rally was the introduction of national standards for fire services.

The FBU argued that the current system, which varies from region to region, has created a “postcode lottery” for fire cover, meaning that response times, staffing levels, and equipment quality differ widely.

FBU general secretary Matt Wrack said: “Decades of fragmentation have also created a postcode lottery on fire cover.

“If you call a fire engine now, it’s pot luck how many firefighters will be on board or how quickly it will arrive.”

The Labour Party has pledged to address these issues, with a commitment to reintroduce national standards for crewing, training, response times, and safety measures, according to the FBU.

Firefighters highlight impact of job cuts and underfunding

The rally brought attention to the impact of job cuts and funding reductions on the fire and rescue service.

Since 2010, one in five firefighter jobs has been lost, and central government funding for the service has decreased by 30%.

These cuts have significantly affected the ability of fire services to respond to emergencies efficiently.

In his address to the rally, Wrack emphasised the need for investment: “The solutions to this crisis are neither complicated nor expensive.

“We need investment to rebuild our fire service, and national standards informed by a statutory advisory body with firefighters at the table.”

Calls for the repeal of anti-union laws

Another key demand from the FBU is the repeal of anti-union laws introduced during the Conservative government’s tenure.

The union is advocating for the full implementation of the New Deal for Working People, which would protect workers’ rights and overturn recent legislation that restricts union activities.

Following the rally, hundreds of firefighters marched to Westminster to lobby MPs, urging them to support the measures outlined by the FBU.

The union believes that these reforms are essential to safeguarding both public safety and the rights of fire service workers.

UK firefighters rally to demand government action on fire service crisis: summary

Firefighters from across the UK gathered in London on 8th October to demand urgent reforms to the fire and rescue services.

The rally, organised by the Fire Brigades Union, called attention to issues such as job losses, funding cuts, and the absence of national standards in the fire service.

Speakers, including FBU general secretary Matt Wrack, urged the government to address the postcode lottery in fire cover and invest in rebuilding the service.

The union also pushed for the repeal of recent anti-union laws and a full implementation of workers’ rights protections.

The rally concluded with firefighters lobbying MPs at Westminster.

Phil Garrigan, OBE, to succeed Mark Hardingham as NFCC Chair in April 2025

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

New NFCC Chair to take office in April 2025

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has announced that its current Chair, Mark Hardingham, will step down in March 2025 at the conclusion of his four-year term.

The NFCC recently held an election to select Hardingham’s successor, with the process open to all currently serving UK Chief Fire Officers and those who have served in the past two years.

The election, conducted among NFCC members, took place throughout September.

The results of the election were finalised during the NFCC Board of Trustees meeting on Friday 4 October, where it was confirmed that Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, will take on the role of Chair in April 2025.

Phil Garrigan’s career and leadership in Merseyside

Phil Garrigan has been with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service since 1990, serving in various roles across community fire stations.

His work has largely focused on some of Merseyside’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged areas.

Garrigan has consistently emphasised the importance of community engagement in reducing risks, recognising the unique position of trust held by the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS).

He has effectively utilised this trust, along with the professionalism of the Merseyside FRS staff, to address the underlying causes that contribute to fire risks.

In his role as Chief Fire Officer, Garrigan has led the Service to achieve its lowest recorded number of fire-related deaths.

He has also introduced a performance management framework designed to foster continuous improvement across all aspects of the Service.

National roles and strategic contributions

Beyond his work in Merseyside, Phil Garrigan plays a pivotal role in national fire and rescue efforts.

He is currently the Vice Chair of the NFCC and serves as the National Lead for Fire and Rescue Services concerning children and young people.

Additionally, he is a member of the NFCC’s Operations Coordination Committee, where he oversees national resilience capabilities on behalf of the Home Office.

This role includes providing strategic guidance during significant national events, including the UK’s response to COVID-19.

His comprehensive experience gives him a broad understanding of the sector, making him a key figure in national fire and rescue operations.

Garrigan has also been instrumental in shaping the sector’s approach to working with children and young people (CYP).

Under his leadership, the Fire and Rescue Service has transformed the lives of hundreds of young people across the UK.

Mark Hardingham reflects on his time as NFCC Chair

Mark Hardingham, who has served as NFCC Chair since 2021, has overseen various initiatives and developments in the UK fire and rescue sector during his time in office.

His term saw several key reforms and the council’s role in shaping fire safety and response policies nationwide.

Hardingham said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the NFCC. I look forward to supporting Phil as he takes up this important role.”

Phil Garrigan’s leadership approach and community involvement

Garrigan’s leadership has extended beyond firefighting, as he has been deeply involved in governance and community-based initiatives.

Since becoming Chief Fire Officer, he has reformed the governance structure of the Merseyside Service and introduced a People Plan.

This plan reflects his inclusive management style, ensuring that all staff members are involved in decision-making processes.

In addition to his work within the Fire and Rescue Service, Garrigan is committed to youth development.

He serves as a Trustee and Board member for the Hive Youth Zone and Firefit Hub and acts as an Ambassador for the Cash for Kids charity.

Phil Garrigan to succeed Mark Hardingham as NFCC Chair in April 2025: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has confirmed that its current Chair, Mark Hardingham, will step down in March 2025 after completing his term.

Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, has been elected as the new Chair following a vote by NFCC members.

The election results were ratified by the NFCC Board of Trustees on 4 October.

Garrigan will officially take over in April 2025.

He brings extensive experience from his time in Merseyside, where he has focused on community risk reduction and youth engagement.

Garrigan currently serves as the NFCC Vice Chair and is involved in national-level fire and rescue operations.

NFPA announces education network in MENA for safety professionals

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

NFPA expands safety training in MENA

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has launched its Authorised Education Network (AEN) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, a move designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality safety training.

As reported by the NFPA, this global initiative will provide safety professionals with access to NFPA training courses through a network of authorised providers.

The programme will utilise NFPA-approved instructors to deliver training worldwide, ensuring access to the expertise needed to tackle modern safety challenges.

Dana Kamal, NFPA’s Director of International Business Development for MENA, said: “At NFPA we are committed to enabling worldwide access to our globally renowned training courses.

“With that, we are delighted to share the launch of the NFPA Authorised Education Network, which will help expand our offerings in the region, providing NFPA instructor-led training to empower safety professionals with enhanced knowledge, information, and skills to protect lives and property.”

Becoming an authorised NFPA training provider

The NFPA is inviting organisations and individuals in fire, electrical, and life safety sectors to apply to become authorised training providers within the AEN.

Qualified applicants will be able to offer NFPA-recognised training, giving them the advantage of credibility and access to world-class training materials developed by experts.

Providers will also have access to the NFPA’s online Learning Portal to manage their classes and students.

The benefits of becoming an authorised provider include quicker delivery of high-quality content, leveraging NFPA-approved instructors’ expertise, and gaining digital certification via Credly.

Who should apply to join the network

The NFPA AEN is open to various groups within the safety industry, from associations looking to enhance membership value to training professionals aiming to expand their services.

Training companies, corporations, and educational institutions will also benefit from joining the AEN, particularly those seeking instructor-led training to improve safety knowledge within their workforce.

NFPA aims to support those dedicated to advancing safety for clients and improving the effectiveness of their services.

Available training courses

The AEN will offer a wide range of NFPA’s highly regarded training courses, covering key topics like fire protection systems, building and life safety, electrical safety, and industrial hazards.

Instructor-led courses will be provided on the latest editions of NFPA codes and standards, with most courses offered in English.

As the network grows, the NFPA will expand its course selection to address evolving safety requirements.

NFPA announces education network in MENA for safety professionals: Summary

The NFPA has launched its Authorised Education Network (AEN) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), providing professionals with enhanced access to safety training.

Through a global network of authorised training providers and NFPA-approved instructors, this initiative offers world-class courses on fire safety, life safety, and hazard management.

Organisations and individuals in the safety sector can apply to join the AEN, benefiting from ready-made, high-quality training content and credibility through digital certification.

The programme aims to support those improving workforce safety, with a wide range of courses available on NFPA’s latest codes and standards.

Hochiki donates fire detection devices to FIA training facility in Northwich

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Hochiki equips FIA training facility with fire detection technology

Hochiki Europe has announced the donation of a range of fire detection devices to the new Fire Industry Association (FIA) training facility in Northwich.

As reported by Hochiki Europe, the donation aims to equip the facility’s practical bays, where students will gain hands-on experience with fire system installations.

The provided equipment includes addressable surface mounted MCPs, isolators, bases, programmable heat sensors, optical smoke sensors, multi-sensors, and Voice Alarm Devices (VADs).

These devices, commonly used by UK firefighting services, are designed to minimise false alarms and enhance fire safety.

“We are thrilled to support the FIA in its mission to train the next generation of fire safety engineers,” said Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director of Hochiki Europe.

“By providing our latest fire detection devices, we can help ensure that these future professionals have the skills and knowledge they need to safeguard lives and property.”

Training facility supports northern engineers

The new FIA training facility in Northwich aims to offer better access for businesses and student engineers in the North of England.

The facility will provide FIA’s industry-recognised courses, making it more convenient for professionals based in the region to gain essential skills in fire protection.

Hochiki Europe’s equipment donation will allow students to train with cutting-edge technology used in real-world settings, preparing them for future roles in fire safety engineering.

Hochiki’s legacy of fire safety innovation

Founded in 1918 in Japan, Hochiki has developed a reputation for its fire detection technologies.

With over a century of experience, the company continues to provide reliable fire safety products and solutions across various sectors.

The Fire Industry Association (FIA), established in the United Kingdom just two years after Hochiki, has been a leading voice in fire protection and safety training for over a century.

The FIA is committed to promoting best practices and supporting fire safety professionals through its training programs.

Collaboration to advance fire safety training

The partnership between Hochiki Europe and the FIA reflects a shared commitment to advancing fire safety standards and training.

By providing cutting-edge fire detection equipment, Hochiki aims to help the FIA equip its students with the skills necessary to protect people and property effectively.

This collaboration brings together Hochiki’s expertise in fire detection and the FIA’s extensive experience in fire safety education, supporting the development of the next generation of fire safety engineers.

Hochiki donates fire detection devices to FIA training facility in Northwich: Summary

Hochiki Europe has donated various fire detection devices to the Fire Industry Association’s (FIA) new training facility in Northwich, England.

The equipment, which includes multi-sensors, heat sensors, and Voice Alarm Devices (VADs), will allow students to gain hands-on experience in fire system installations.

This facility aims to provide better access to fire safety training for businesses and engineers in the North of England.

Hochiki, founded in Japan in 1918, and the FIA, established two years later, share a long-standing commitment to improving fire safety standards.

Their partnership will help train the next generation of fire safety professionals.

ASFP initiates task group to tackle transition to European fire resistance standards in England

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassiveResearch

ASFP task group to address fire door sector changes

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced the formation of Task Group 10 (TG10): Fire Doors, to assist the fire door sector as it transitions to the European test standards and classification system.

As reported by ASFP, this shift follows the removal of national classes for fire resistance in Approved Document B in England.

TG10 aims to support stakeholders across the fire door industry, including manufacturers, installers, and regulators, by developing comprehensive guidance for product testing, certification, installation, and lifecycle management under the new European frameworks.

Impact on UK fire door sector

The UK fire door market is substantial, with millions of fire doors made from various materials being installed throughout the country.

The removal of the British BS 476 standards adds new complexities to product development and the overall management of fire door safety.

TG10 seeks to ease this transition by fostering collaboration among industry experts.

This will be achieved through the creation of new ASFP guidance, providing clarity on how to adapt to the changes and maintain fire door safety under the new regulatory environment.

Focus on guidance and collaboration

TG10’s main goal is to create the new ASFP Colour Book, which will offer detailed guidance on the transition from national fire resistance standards to European classification systems.

It will cover best practices for specifying, installing, maintaining, and managing fire doors under the updated regulations.

Additionally, the guidance will support the implementation of the “Golden Thread” of product information for high-risk buildings, ensuring accurate and comprehensive documentation for fire door systems.

Invitation for industry participation

The ASFP encourages fire safety professionals, academics, manufacturers, and regulators to contribute their knowledge and expertise to TG10.

Stakeholders who meet the ASFP Bylaws criteria will be invited to a launch event scheduled for 30th October 2024 at the ASFP Academy in Coventry.

The event will formally introduce TG10 and outline its objectives for the future of fire door safety in the UK.

For more information or to express interest in joining TG10, individuals can contact Adam Shipstone, ASFP Technical Training Officer, at adam.shipstone@asfp.org.uk.

ASFP initiates task group to tackle transition to European fire resistance standards in England: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has formed Task Group 10 (TG10) to support the fire door sector in transitioning to the European fire resistance standards, as mandated by the recent changes to Approved Document B in England.

TG10 will develop a comprehensive set of guidelines to help stakeholders navigate this transition, focusing on product development, testing, and lifecycle management.

The group will also promote collaboration across the industry and provide specific guidance through the ASFP Colour Book.

The launch event for TG10 will take place on 30th October 2024 at the ASFP Academy in Coventry.