ASFP announces finalists for Passive Fire Protection Awards Dinner

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPassive

ASFP Passive Fire Protection Awards Event details and agenda

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced the finalists for 2024 Passive Fire Protection Awards, which will be presented at a dinner at the Athena Hotel in Leicester on 28 November.

The event promises to honour exceptional accomplishments within the passive fire protection industry.

The evening will commence with a canapé reception followed by a three-course dinner.

Entertainment for the night includes an aerial acrobatics performance, professional dance troops, fairground attractions, a DJ-led disco, and comedy from a well-known entertainer.

The venue, Athena Hotel, has been chosen to ensure an optimal experience for attendees.

Originally built as an Odeon Cinema in 1936, the Athena is a nationally-recognised events space with a capacity of 2,000.

It features state-of-the-art live shows, a professional cocktail bar, and a diverse menu.

Attendees will also enjoy a midnight breakfast to conclude the night.

This year’s theme, Stargazing, promises a dazzling stage show and magical décor.

Awards and finalists

The ASFP Awards Dinner, exclusive to ASFP members, is an opportunity to celebrate excellence in the passive fire protection industry.

Categories include Passive Fire Innovation of the Year, Lifetime Contribution, Individual Rising Star of the Year, and Best Installation/Project of the Year, among others.

This year’s finalists are:

Best Small Scale Installation/Project Of The Year:

  • The Encon Group
  • Novus Property Solutions Ltd
  • Ventro Fire Compliance

Best Large Scale Installation/Project Of The Year:

  • CLM Fireproofing Ltd
  • Golden Thread Fire Delay Ltd
  • LDD Construction Ltd

Passive Fire Innovation Of The Year (Project):

  • ARC Building Solutions Ltd
  • Knauf Insulation Ltd
  • Tremco Incorporated

Passive Fire Innovation Of The Year (Digital):

Training & Development Of The Year:

  • Global HSE Solutions Ltd
  • Checkmate Fire Solutions Ltd

Best Customer Service Of The Year:

  • Novus Property Solutions Ltd
  • Nullifire (Tremco / CPG)
  • United Kingdom Testing & Certification

Marketing Campaign Of The Year:

  • FSi/Promat Ltd
  • TBA Firefly

Individual Rising Star Of The Year:

  • Robert Grant (United Kingdom Testing & Certification)
  • Jack Colloff (TBA Firefly)
  • Chelsea Campbell (The Encon Group)

Judging panel and ticket information

The judging panel for the ASFP Awards comprises industry leaders such as Paul Hanson, Principal Fire Engineer at Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Dave White, Chairman of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers, Kate Blake and Chloe Vickery, Co-founders of Women in Fire Safety, Andrea White of Women Talking Fire, and Ben Bradford, founder of BB7.

Tickets for the event are selling fast, with the ASFP urging members not to miss out on this opportunity to celebrate the industry’s achievements.

BRE releases study on the effectiveness of visual alarm devices

by Associations and OrganisationsFire Detection

BRE study examines factors affecting visual alarm devices

The Building Research Establishment (BRE) has released a briefing paper detailing the outcomes of a three-phase research project on Visual Alarm Devices (VADs).

As reported by the Fire Industry Association (FIA), the project was funded by the FIA with a contribution of £35,000 and further supported by FIA members through sponsorship, advice, VAD products, and expertise.

The research aims to enhance understanding of the factors that influence VAD performance.

This is expected to inform updates to the 2012 Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) Code of Practice CoP 0001, a reference in BS 5839-1 for fire alarm systems.

Key factors in VAD effectiveness

The research identified five factors affecting VAD performance: wall surfaces, direct or indirect presentation to people, VAD colours (red and white), background light levels, and pulse durations.

According to the briefing paper, “white and light surfaces yielded the most effective response for both red and white VADs,” while darker and textured surfaces were less effective.

The study also found that direct viewing of VADs is more effective than indirect viewing.

Additionally, red VADs were about 20% more effective than white ones, although red VADs showed greater variability in effectiveness.

Implications for future fire safety standards

The findings from this research will support revisions to the LPCB CoP 0001 and possibly influence EN 54-23 standards.

BRE’s study provides evidence that could lead to more effective fire alarm systems by optimizing the use of VADs in various environments.

CTIF young firefighters competition takes place in Italy’s Borgo Valsugana

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

Young firefighters gather in Italy

Young firefighters from 22 countries are gathering in Borgo Valsugana, Trento, Italy for the 24th CTIF Young Firefighters Competition, as reported by the International Association of Fire and Rescue Services (CTIF).

The event, running from July 21 to July 28, features 53 teams comprising over 630 competitors and 66 judges.

The event is set against the backdrop of the Italian Dolomites within the Autonomous Province of Trento.

On Monday, the first training day was held, accompanied by the opening of an exhibition showcasing historical firefighting items.

In the evening, a ceremonial opening took place in the main square.

The CTIF name and logo were prominently displayed on the castle tower of Borgo Valsugana, illuminated at night.

Training sessions underway

Tuesday saw a full day of training sessions.

These activities are crucial as they prepare the participants for the competition starting on Wednesday, July 24.

The last day of training is scheduled for Wednesday before the official start of the competitions.

CTIF.org has announced that it will provide updates, including photos, videos, and text, throughout the week.

Spectators can follow live

For those unable to attend in person, the host country is offering a live stream of the event.

This stream, available at CTIF 2024 Live Stream, allows global viewers to follow the activities live, thanks to a professional camera team.

CTIF’s ongoing coverage

Several vice presidents of CTIF are present at the event in Trentino.

They are ensuring comprehensive coverage of the competition.

The final results will be published after the event concludes and all activities have been summarised.

This initiative highlights the global participation and the significance of such competitions in fostering international camaraderie among young firefighters.

NFPA signs MoU with Bahrain Civil Defence to enhance fire safety measures

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

MoU signed to enhance fire safety in Bahrain

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the General Directorate of Civil Defence at the Ministry of Interior for the Kingdom of Bahrain.

This agreement aims to improve fire safety and prevention measures in Bahrain.

The MoU signing ceremony took place at the annual NFPA Conference & Expo in Orlando, Florida, with key representatives from both organisations in attendance.

The partnership will leverage NFPA’s expertise in fire, electrical, and life safety, along with Bahrain Civil Defence’s local knowledge in firefighting and civil defence.

The collaboration focuses on organising awareness forums, promoting education, and sharing best practices to enhance public safety.

Collaborative efforts to advance fire safety

NFPA President & CEO Jim Pauley stated: “Building on the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem framework, we are charting a roadmap for developing comprehensive training and certification programs, advancing fire research, and enhancing public education across the Kingdom.”

He added that the initiative aims to advance fire safety and mitigate risks through increased fire risk awareness and reduction strategies.

Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development MENA at NFPA, highlighted the significance of the partnership: “It’s an honour to collaborate with Bahrain Civil Defence on our shared mission to advance fire and life safety across the Kingdom.

“By leveraging the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem, we aim to empower communities and ensure that Bahrain Civil Defence personnel are equipped with the highest standards of safety knowledge and skills to help fulfil their commitment to public safety.”

Strategic alignment with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030

Brigadier Pilot Ali Mohamed AlKubaisi, General Director of Civil Defence of Bahrain Civil Defence, commented on the partnership: “This initiative is a strategic milestone for the General Directorate of Civil Defence in the Kingdom of Bahrain to implement Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 by raising the level of safety and fire prevention.

“The signing of this memorandum of understanding allows us to be part of the NFPA Ecosystem, learning, developing, and benefiting from international community experiences in order to participate in strengthening this framework.”

He further mentioned the goal of qualifying employees to international standards, exchanging experiences, and leaving a positive impact on all stakeholders involved.

NFPA’s global efforts and mission

NFPA operates in over 70 countries, supported by more than 5,000 volunteers and engaging with over 43,000 global members.

The organisation promotes safety in a rapidly electrifying world, addresses critical crises globally, defends the value of codes and standards, and highlights international efforts in emerging issues and trends in fire, electrical, and life safety.

This partnership is part of NFPA’s overall objective of increasing safety for people and property.

NFCC Culture Conference 2024: Addressing Challenges and Promoting Inclusion

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

NFCC Culture Conference 2024 unites fire service leaders to address cultural challenges

The second NFCC Culture Conference, held on July 15-16 in Birmingham, gathered leaders and practitioners from the Fire and Rescue Service along with other stakeholders to address cultural challenges within the UK Fire and Rescue Service.

The event aimed to share learning and identify actions to improve inclusivity and diversity across the sector.

Chief Fire Officer Kath Billing of Cornwall FRS and NFCC EDI Lead opened the conference, highlighting the need for an inclusive work environment.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham emphasized listening to those with lived experiences of negative aspects of fire service culture, underscoring the importance of honesty in addressing these issues.

Anthea Sully, CEO of White Ribbon and chair of the NFCC Independent Challenge and Support Panel, delivered the keynote address, drawing parallels between White Ribbon’s prevention work and the need for cultural reform in the fire sector.

HMICFRS’s Roy Wilsher presented an update on the State of FRS report, noting improvements in some services due to effective leadership.

However, he also pointed out ongoing issues with diversity and inclusion affecting trust and confidence.

Martin Jefferies from the Defence Academy emphasized the necessity of inclusive leadership for driving culture change.

New initiatives and tools for cultural improvement

The conference also focused on the NFCC Culture Action Plan and tools to support a more inclusive and safer workplace.

CFO Rob Barber discussed the Direct Entry programme, which aims to introduce new ideas by bringing in experienced professionals at the station manager level.

Barber stated: “We can bring new ideas into the sector that drive change and challenge the status quo.”

Three new resources were introduced to aid in cultural improvement: the Culture Dashboard Methodology, the Health and Wellbeing Strategic Framework, and the Challenging Inappropriate Behaviour Toolkit.

These tools are designed to help services understand and improve their culture, promote health and wellbeing, and empower employees to address harmful behaviour.

Interactive sessions during the conference allowed participants to engage with these new resources and discuss their implementation, along with previously launched toolkits on menopause, religion and belief, and disability.

Imagining our future – inclusive culture

Day two of the conference began with a presentation by Siobhan Melia, CEO of Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust.

She discussed the importance of systematic change across the ecosystem to transform culture, balancing people metrics with performance metrics.

Her session offered practical lessons on cultural change in complex organisations.

Representatives from the Inclusive Fire Service Group (IFSG), including Ben Selby of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and Sarah Ward from the Local Government Association (LGA), discussed the history and initiatives of IFSG.

They highlighted the need for proactive collaboration to move from reports and surveys to actionable solutions.

Case studies from CFOs Andy Roe, Ben Ansell, and Stuart Millington showcased responses to independent culture reviews, detailing improvement plans and challenges faced.

The lived experience panel, chaired by NFCC CEO Susannah Hancock, featured representatives from key organisations sharing personal stories and cultural priorities.

The session emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue and regular meetings to shape NFCC’s work.

Continuing the journey towards cultural change

The conference concluded with NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham reiterating the priority of culture and inclusion.

He stressed the importance of partnership in achieving the necessary changes.

The NFCC Culture Conference highlighted the progress made and the critical steps needed to foster a more inclusive culture within the UK Fire and Rescue Services.

The commitment to work together to deliver lasting cultural change was reaffirmed as the conference drew to a close.

Enhanced virtual training program for firefighters launched by NFPA and Vector Solutions

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

NFPA’s virtual training program aims to improve firefighter response to emerging hazards

As reported by the NFPA, Vector Solutions has partnered with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to host the NFPA Fire Incident Response Simulated Training (FIRST) Application.

This virtual training program is designed to enhance firefighter competency in responding to distributed energy technologies and lithium-ion battery fires.

The initiative is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.

The FIRST Application offers a game-like training experience that allows firefighters to train in realistic virtual scenarios.

These scenarios include fighting electric vehicle and energy storage fires in residential garages.

Based on real-world test data, the program provides interactive, multi-user simulations that mirror actual incidents, aiming to improve firefighters’ response times and effectiveness.

Vector Solutions’ role in distributing NFPA training

Vector Solutions has been serving state, county, and municipal governmental entities since 1999, with a particular focus on the Fire and EMS market.

The collaboration with NFPA leverages Vector’s TargetSolutions Training Management System to distribute essential training materials.

This partnership aims to address the evolving needs of modern firefighters through innovative training solutions.

Josh Grossman, General Manager of the Public Sector at Vector Solutions, said: “We are honored to support NFPA in providing their cutting-edge training to firefighters across the country.

“Our work together exemplifies our united commitment to ensuring first responders feel prepared and protected as they battle today’s emergencies.”

NFPA’s vision for digital learning in fire safety

Andrew Klock, NFPA Senior Manager of Education and Development, emphasized the long-term impact of NFPA’s training programs.

He said: “Since the inception of NFPA’s electric vehicle and hybrid fire safety training courses 14 years ago, we’ve seen about 350,000 firefighters benefit from these in-depth lessons.

“Our hope in working with Vector Solutions is to meet the needs of today’s digital learners by using Vector’s responder platforms to reach the millions of first responders who may battle these types of fires in their own communities.”

Tracking firefighter training progress with Vector Solutions

Vector Solutions is supporting this initiative with a pre-built TargetSolutions custom Activity in its training management system.

This feature allows fire departments to track and report on their personnel’s training progress, ensuring they receive the credit deserved for their participation in the simulation.

Access to the NFPA FIRST Training program is available for free, providing an invaluable resource for fire departments across the US.

Fire Protection Association manifesto calls for new UK government to prioritise fire safety

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsSafety

FPA releases six key policy statements for fire safety

As reported by the Fire Protection Association (FPA), the organisation has urged the new UK government to place fire life safety and property protection at the forefront of its built environment strategy.

The FPA has outlined six key policy statements aimed at reducing risks and improving fire safety in UK buildings.

Dr Gavin Dunn, Managing Director of the FPA, stated: “The FPA is calling for change to fire safety and property protection in buildings, and to that end we are proud to publish our manifesto of six policy areas we think the new government should consider.”

The policies proposed include installing sprinkler systems in new and refurbished schools and care homes, ensuring the competency of fire risk assessors, continuing to implement the Building Safety Act, supporting the Morrell/Day Report on construction product safety, aiding the transition to net zero, and using data-driven measures for planning system reforms.

Key policy areas for fire safety reform

The first policy calls for the installation of sprinkler systems in all new and majorly refurbished schools and care homes.

This measure aims to provide better protection for vulnerable populations in these facilities.

The second policy focuses on the competency of fire risk assessors.

It suggests that all assessors should be qualified and certified under a UKAS-accredited scheme and should be supported with ongoing professional development to maintain their competence.

The third policy involves the continued implementation of the Building Safety Act 2022 and support for the Building Safety Regulator.

The FPA stresses the importance of supporting the supplementary legislation and the key role of the regulator.

Recommendations for construction product safety and net zero transition

The fourth policy urges the government to implement the Morrell/Day Report’s recommendations on construction product safety.

This report highlights key aspects of product safety that need urgent attention.

The fifth policy addresses the transition to net zero.

The FPA recommends developing policies and guidance to support new energy technologies and low carbon construction techniques that do not compromise fire safety and property resilience.

The sixth policy supports planning system reforms through the use of data-driven fire protection measures.

This approach targets fire protection efforts effectively, particularly in high-risk buildings and those distant from fire and rescue services.

Collaboration and readiness to implement

The FPA has expressed its readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders to advance these policies.

The organisation believes that these initiatives do not require new legislation, as existing powers can drive the necessary changes.

Prioritising fire safety, the FPA argues, will protect lives, enhance the economic value of the built environment, and contribute to the overall wellbeing and prosperity of society.

NFCC Culture and Inclusion Conference 2024 comes to Birmingham

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Day one: Reflecting on progress and sector updates

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is scheduled to host its second Culture and Inclusion Conference on 15th and 16th July in Birmingham.

As reported by the NFCC, this event will gather leaders and professionals from the UK Fire and Rescue Service and wider partners to promote inclusivity and equity within the sector.

The first day will focus on the progress since the 2023 Culture Conference and the launch of the NFCC Culture Action Plan.

Keynote speaker Anthea Sully, CEO of White Ribbon and Chair of the NFCC Independent Challenge and Support Panel, will address the attendees.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services will also provide updates on the State of Fire and Rescue report, misconduct thematic inspections, and the Values and Culture spotlight report recommendations.

Day two: Future work and shared learning

Day two will be dedicated to future initiatives necessary for lasting change.

Siobhan Melia, Chief Executive at Sussex Community NHS Trust, will deliver a keynote address focusing on culture change in ambulance services, sharing valuable lessons learned.

The agenda will also feature a shared learning session with insights from services that have undergone independent culture reviews.

A lived experiences panel will allow networks and organisations representing those with lived experience to contribute to shaping future initiatives.

Opportunities for collaboration and ongoing culture and inclusion change

The Culture and Inclusion Conference provides an essential platform for fire and rescue services and partners to share learning and good practice.

The event aims to identify next steps for continued progress in this critical work.

While a single conference cannot achieve transformation alone, the NFCC hopes that the discussions and shared experiences will act as catalysts for ongoing improvement across the sector.

The effort to foster cultural change is recognised as a collective endeavour that extends beyond NFCC’s initiatives to include local and national contributions from the sector and its partners.

NFPA updates fire department medical program standards

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPPE

New NFPA 1582 standard for fire departments

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has updated its guidelines for physicians and healthcare providers involved in fire department medical programs.

As reported by The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), NFPA 1582, also known as the Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments, now provides a single standard for both candidates and current fire fighters.

This update includes considerations of age and biological sex in the benchmarks for cardiorespiratory fitness.

The previous standard differentiated between medical requirements for candidates and incumbent fire fighters, relying solely on test results without accounting for individual factors.

NFPA collaborated with IAFF officials, FEMA representatives, attorneys, and medical experts over two years to finalise the new standard.

Grading and fitness programs

The revised NFPA 1582 standard now assesses fire fighter cardiorespiratory fitness using a percentile system.

Fire fighters who score in the 35th percentile or higher will be considered to have a passing test score.

Those scoring below this benchmark, with age and biological sex considerations, may be assigned a fitness program aimed at improving their cardiopulmonary health.

Once the decision to amend the standards was made, the IAFF and other task group members pushed for the inclusion of metrics related to age and biological sex.

Ensuring accurate and complete results

IAFF Chief Medical Officer Dan Whu emphasised the importance of these considerations: “Cardiopulmonary fitness levels are often not uniform across genders and ages, so it was important for the IAFF to ensure the new standard gave accurate and complete results.”

Whu added: “Considering these factors does not mean fire departments would have to lower expectations, it just means that appropriate fitness levels have been now adopted to reflect the cardiopulmonary differences that may be found within genders and different ages.”

Collaborative effort

The development of the new standard involved extensive collaboration.

NFPA, working with various stakeholders, ensured that the revised guidelines would provide a more accurate and fair assessment of fire fighter fitness levels.

This approach aims to create a healthier and more capable fire fighting workforce by recognising and addressing individual differences in fitness and health.

SFPE reveals 2024 class of fellows and top award winners

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire EngineeringPeople

SFPE 2024 fellows and award recipients announced

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has announced its 2024 class of Fellows and award recipients, as reported by the Society of Fire Protection Engineers.

Fellow membership represents the highest professional honour of SFPE, awarded to individuals with significant accomplishments in fire protection engineering.

The 2024 SFPE Fellows include Dr Brian Ashe, Chris Butts, John F. Devlin, Kiyoshi Fukui, Don Hopkins Jr., Charles Joyce, Brian Y. Lattimer, Seth Sienkiewicz, Michael Spearpoint, and Gabriele Vigne.

Rising leaders in fire protection engineering

The SFPE “5 Under 35” awards highlight the top rising leaders in the fire protection engineering profession who also contribute to the community.

The 2024 recipients are Andrea Lucherini, Andrew Poole, Emily N. Thomas, Jonathan Hodges, and Victoria Hutchison.

These individuals have shown exceptional dedication and promise in the field, contributing to both their profession and the broader community through their work and service.

SFPE awards ceremony details

In addition to the fellowships and “5 Under 35” awards, SFPE has announced ten other award recipients for 2024.

These awards recognise various contributions to the field, such as mentorship, education, and service.

Among the recipients are Jack Poole, Bryan Hoskins, David Grossmann, Greg Baker, J. Sargent “Sarge” Slicer, Morgan Hurley, Ed Ruckriegel, David Stacy, Derek Gruchy, Dustin Stokes, Michael A. Crowley, and Tracy Franklin-Williams.

The awards will be presented during the SFPE Annual Conference & Expo in Louisville, KY, USA, from October 6-8, 2024.

Registration for the event is available on the SFPE website.

“Annually, we celebrate SFPE members whose outstanding achievements have significantly advanced our profession and Society.

Their contributions have played a crucial role in enhancing the science and technology aimed at mitigating global fire risks,” said Chris Jelenewicz, PE, FSFPE, Chief Executive Officer, Society of Fire Protection Engineers.

“We are immensely thankful for their leadership and unwavering commitment to SFPE and the fire protection engineering community.”