Fire Industry Association has released guidance on maintenance-free connections for fire alarm systems

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Detection

Overview of the new technical bulletin

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published a critical guidance document addressing the use of maintenance-free connections in the installation of fire detection and fire alarm systems, ensuring adherence to the BS 5839-1 standards.

This publication provides clarity on frequently asked questions regarding the permissible use of such connections in non-domestic settings.

The guidance emphasises the importance of avoiding external joints in cable installations but allows for certain exceptions under specific conditions.

Key recommendations and industry misconceptions

According to the newly released bulletin, maintenance-free connectors may be used under certain conditions, such as within system components like manual call points or fire detectors.

However, the document also highlights common misconceptions in the industry, such as the unnecessary requirement for metal or galvanised boxes for external joints.

The FIA’s guidance specifies that the choice of material for the box is not mandated by BS 5839-1, but other factors, like isolation from true earth, may influence this decision.

Importance of adhering to fire-resistance standards

The guidance underlines the criticality of using connections that match the fire-resistance capabilities of the cables they join.

For external joints, terminals should be made of materials that can withstand similar temperatures and durations to the cables themselves.

It raises concerns about the suitability of maintenance-free connectors in critical signal paths due to their lower operating temperatures compared to the required fire-resistant standards for cables.

IFSJ Comment

The Fire Industry Association‘s latest guidance on maintenance-free connections offers valuable clarification for professionals in the fire safety sector.

By delineating the conditions under which these connectors can be used, the FIA helps ensure that fire detection and alarm systems remain effective and compliant with BS 5839-1 standards.

This guidance is particularly relevant as it addresses common misconceptions and provides a clear directive on maintaining the integrity of fire safety systems.

Adhering to these standards is crucial for the reliability of fire detection and alarm systems, ultimately safeguarding lives and property.

NFPA Conference and Expo to bring industry leaders together in Orlando

by Associations and OrganisationsEvents

NFPA Conference and Expo gathers experts

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is set to host its annual Conference & Expo from June 17 to 19, 2024, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL.

This event is anticipated to bring together thousands of professionals from the fire, electrical, and life safety industries.

Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in over 120 educational sessions that cover a broad range of critical topics, such as code compliance, emergency preparedness, emerging technologies, and global issues impacting the field.

Exhibition and presentations

The expo will showcase more than 350 exhibitors, presenting an array of products and services essential for meeting and maintaining compliance with prevailing codes and standards in building and facility design, construction, and operation.

Highlighted presentations and special events will focus on urgent topics like electric vehicle safety, the utilization of virtual reality in wildfire training, and the debut of CRAIG 1300®, a digital tool designed for community data collection and analysis to support risk reduction efforts.

Education and learning annex

A special focus will be placed on public education with the NFPA Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE), which will offer education sessions and workshops on public health topics and community risk reduction.

The NFPA Learning Annex, new to this year’s conference, will provide attendees with access to three theaters dedicated to discussing the latest trends and insights in building and life safety, firefighter challenges, and NFPA’s products and solutions.

Keynote address by David Pogue

David Pogue, an acclaimed New York Times contributor, CBS Sunday Morning correspondent, and host of NOVA on PBS, will deliver the keynote address.

Pogue’s talk will explore the profound impact of technology on work, business, health, society, and interpersonal connections, touching on critical issues such as artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, healthcare technology, and climate change.

Technical meeting and industry impact

Following the conference, the NFPA Technical Meeting will start on June 20, allowing members and the public to discuss certified amending motions.

This meeting underscores the NFPA’s commitment to transparency and industry participation in shaping safety standards and practices.

Annual general meeting of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection scheduled for April in London

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsEvents

ASFP’s annual gathering details announced

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place at Drapers’ Hall, London, on 11 April.

This key event in the fire protection industry calendar offers ASFP members and guests a unique opportunity to engage with the latest updates on the Association’s activities and its plans for the future.

The meeting is set to begin with welcome teas and coffees at 9am, followed by the formal AGM proceedings from 10:30 to 10:55.

Keynote speaker and new council appointments

Following the AGM, Chandru Dissanayeke from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities will deliver a keynote speech, focusing on the latest governmental and regulatory updates in the fire safety sector.

The event will also mark the introduction of the new ASFP Council, offering members their first chance to meet the newly elected representatives.

The council election process concluded on 15 March.

Networking opportunities and future plans

The AGM will conclude with a networking lunch at 1pm, where attendees can connect with industry leaders, ASFP members, and staff.

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward highlighted the importance of the AGM, stating: “The AGM offers members and guests alike the opportunity to receive detailed updates of what we have achieved over the past year and to hear about our plans for 2024 and beyond.”

Ward also emphasized the forthcoming technical and regulatory updates, as well as the development milestones of the ASFP Competency Pathway and new training recognition services.

Comment from ASFP Managing Director

Mike Ward further commented: “We are grateful to Chandru for agreeing to provide his insights on the latest regulatory developments to affect the fire safety industry.

“The ASFP AGM provides you with direct access to ASFP, industry and Government representatives and an opportunity to get answers to all your concerns and queries.

“We look forward to welcoming to this informative event.”

To reserve your place visit, https://asfp.org.uk/page/AnnualGeneralMeeting; or for further information on the ASFP visit: https://asfp.org.uk/

IFSJ Comment

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection‘s decision to hold its Annual General Meeting in London underscores the continuous evolution of fire safety practices and the sector’s commitment to enhancing industry standards.

Through presentations, updates, and networking opportunities, the event fosters collaboration among professionals, promoting knowledge exchange and advancements in fire protection.

It reflects the industry’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism, contributing to the overall well-being and security of communities.

FBU demands end to PFCC model after Northamptonshire commissioner steps down

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Union response to PFCC announcement

The Fire Brigades Union has voiced its opinion on the announcement that Stephen Mold, Northamptonshire’s Police, Fire, and Crime Commissioner (PFCC), will not seek re-election.

The union has taken this opportunity to call for a reconsideration of the PFCC model of governance, which they argue has allowed for unchecked actions and decisions.

Matt Wrack, the General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, highlighted the union’s stance: “Firefighters and the public have welcomed the news that Stephen Mold will not run for re-election as Northamptonshire’s police, fire and crime commissioner.

“Following eight months of scandal, culminating in unacceptable sexism, Mold should have been formally held to account.

“Instead, the undemocratic police, fire and crime commissioner model has allowed Mold to act with impunity.

“Fire Brigades Union members in Northamptonshire have campaigned with tireless determination for the leadership the service needs.

“The disgraceful saga in Northamptonshire is clear evidence that this experiment in fire service governance cannot continue in any region.”

The call for leadership and accountability

The union’s reaction comes after a tumultuous period under Mold’s tenure, marked by scandals and public outcry.

The Fire Brigades Union argues that the PFCC model has failed to provide the necessary oversight and accountability required for such critical public service roles.

Future implications for fire service governance

The Fire Brigades Union’s strong response to the PFCC model and the specific situation in Northamptonshire raises questions about the future of fire service governance in the UK.

The union’s call for an end to this model could initiate discussions on alternative governance structures that ensure greater accountability and efficiency.

IFSJ Comment

The recent developments in Northamptonshire, marked by the announcement of Stephen Mold not seeking re-election has brought to light the limitations and challenges of the current governance model, prompting a dialogue on the need for reforms that enhance accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in public service leadership.

As the industry moves forward, it will be imperative to consider these insights and explore governance frameworks that are better aligned with the values of democracy, accountability, and public trust.

FPA Managing Director Dr Gavin Dunn highlights fire safety in the net zero era

by Associations and OrganisationsSafetySustainability

Overview of Dr Dunn’s insights on net zero and fire safety

Dr Gavin Dunn, the newly appointed Managing Director of the Fire Protection Association (FPA), recently emphasised the interconnection between achieving net zero goals and fire safety in the built environment sector.

With his background as a chartered building engineer, Dr Dunn highlighted how the pursuit of decarbonisation and net zero is influencing business decisions and changing the risk profile in this sector.

He stressed that new practices and materials aimed at meeting these environmental targets introduce risks previously unencountered, especially in the context of fire safety.

Dr Dunn said: “As we drive towards net zero, the imperative to decarbonise is increasingly driving business decisions, and this holds true for the built environment sector.”

He also warned of the fire risks associated with new technologies and materials, such as high-performance insulation, timber construction, and energy systems like solar panels and heat pumps.

Dunn expressed concerns over potential fire events involving these technologies, noting they not only increase the risk of fire but also pose challenges due to the release of potentially toxic effluents and embodied carbon.

FPA Spring Seminar: Fire Safety and Sustainability of the Built Environment

The FPA Spring Seminar, titled ‘Fire Safety and Sustainability of the Built Environment‘, will be opened by Dr Dunn on 17 April at Chicago Booth’s London Conference Centre and online.

The seminar, featuring advice and guidance from industry experts, is designed to help businesses maintain best practice fire safety management amidst evolving sustainability requirements.

Sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including modernising construction, legislative changes, fire risks in timber constructions, and managing fire risks while enhancing building energy performance.

This event is aimed at a broad audience, including building owners, responsible persons, fire risk assessors, fire safety managers, contractors, designers, and insurers.

The seminar will provide invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of fire safety and environmental sustainability.

Importance of balancing sustainability and fire safety

Dr Dunn emphasised the importance of implementing net zero plans in the built environment safely and efficiently.

He stated: “It is vital, however, that we now learn how to do this safely and efficiently.”

This statement underscores the FPA’s commitment to enhancing fire safety awareness, particularly in the context of the built environment’s evolving sustainability requirements.

The FPA’s efforts through this seminar and other initiatives reflect the broader industry trend of integrating environmental sustainability with fire safety.

By focusing on these areas, the FPA aims to ensure that the drive towards a more sustainable future does not compromise safety standards.

IFSJ Comment

The FPA’s focus on fire safety in the context of net zero goals addresses a critical aspect of sustainability in the built environment.

As the industry moves towards environmentally friendly practices, the need for a comprehensive understanding of the associated risks, especially in terms of fire safety, becomes increasingly vital.

The FPA’s initiatives, such as the upcoming Spring Seminar, play a key role in educating industry professionals and stakeholders about the complexities at this intersection.

By fostering a dialogue between experts and practitioners, the FPA is contributing significantly to the development of safer, more sustainable building practices.

FIA releases new technical bulletin on painting fire-resistant cables

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassive

Overview of the FIA Technical Bulletin

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has recently published a technical bulletin addressing the potential hazards of painting cables used in fire detection and fire alarm systems.

This bulletin provides crucial insights into how different types of paint can impact the integrity and fire resistance of these cables.

It emphasises that while water-based paints are less harmful, they may still compromise the cable’s fire resistance and emit harmful gases during a fire.

Impact on cable integrity and fire resistance

The FIA bulletin explains that most standard or enhanced fire-resistant cables consist of a Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSOH) sheath.

Water-based paints generally do not harm LSOH cables, but oil-based or organic solvent-based paints could lead to swelling, softening, and even long-term degradation such as cracking.

Furthermore, painting these cables can affect their low smoke and zero halogen properties during a fire, potentially increasing the emission of harmful gases and smoke.

Implications for building safety standards

The bulletin also outlines the potential consequences of painting cables on compliance with building safety standards.

It notes that once a cable is painted, its condition is altered from its original state, which could affect its compliance with BS 502002 standards.

Additionally, the FIA advises caution with intumescent paints, as they may not guarantee fire resistance without specific testing.

The bulletin suggests the use of PVC sheathed cables in certain situations, as water-based paints typically do not harm their integrity.

Recommendations for fire safety practitioners

For fire safety professionals, the FIA bulletin provides guidance on best practices.

It recommends that any painting of cables should be documented in special inspection or takeover documentation and subsequent service records.

Where cable sheath markings are obscured by paint, the installation of labelling or identification markers is advised to ensure continued compliance with fire safety standards.

IFSJ Comment

The Fire Industry Association‘s latest technical bulletin on the risks associated with painting fire-resistant cables offers valuable guidance for fire safety practitioners.

It highlights the need for careful consideration of the materials used in fire safety systems and the potential consequences of seemingly minor alterations such as painting.

This bulletin serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining fire safety standards and the importance of adhering to best practices to ensure the effectiveness of fire detection and alarm systems.

Euralarm supports Energy Performance of Buildings Directive for enhanced fire safety

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSustainability

Euralarm’s Response to EPBD Vote

Euralarm, a key representative of the electronic fire safety and security industry in Europe, has expressed support following the European Parliament’s vote in favour of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).

This development is seen as a crucial step towards the decarbonisation of building stock.

The association emphasises the dual benefits of better-performing buildings, which not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also enhance safety and security.

Annually, the European Union faces significant fires in various buildings, resulting in loss of life and substantial environmental harm.

Euralarm argues that integrated fire safety and security technologies can mitigate these incidents.

As buildings become increasingly electrified, incorporating technologies like renewable energy production and battery storage, fire risks may rise.

Consequently, Euralarm underlines the need for revising fire safety and security measures in line with these technological integrations.

Call to Action for EU Policymakers and Member States

In response to the directive, Euralarm calls on EU policymakers and Member States to ensure fire safety and security are integral considerations in national building renovation plans.

The association urges the creation of incentives for equipping renovated buildings with the latest fire safety and security technologies.

Their statement highlights the readiness of the 5,000 companies within Euralarm to contribute to the directive’s successful implementation at the Member State level.

The goal is to enhance the energy efficiency of EU buildings while simultaneously elevating their fire safety and security standards.

This proactive stance reflects Euralarm’s commitment to balancing environmental objectives with the imperative of ensuring building safety.

The Role of Fire Safety in Sustainable Building Practices

The EPBD’s focus on decarbonisation aligns with the broader global effort to mitigate climate change impacts.

However, this directive also brings to the forefront the importance of fire safety in sustainable building practices.

The integration of new technologies in buildings, while beneficial for energy performance, necessitates a re-evaluation of existing fire safety protocols.

This movement towards greener buildings creates a unique opportunity for the fire safety industry to innovate and adapt.

It underscores the necessity for expertise in designing and implementing fire protection systems that can cope with the challenges posed by modern, energy-efficient buildings.

Euralarm’s position also signifies a growing recognition of the interconnectedness between environmental sustainability and public safety.

IFSJ Comment

The European Parliament’s endorsement of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, championed by Euralarm, marks a significant juncture in the intersection of environmental sustainability and public safety.

The proactive stance of industry associations like Euralarm is essential in ensuring that sustainability efforts do not overlook the fundamental aspects of fire safety and security.

As the building industry continues to evolve towards greener practices, the integration of these safety technologies will likely become a standard, setting a precedent for future sustainability and safety initiatives.

Fire Brigades Union challenges new Home Office evacuation guidelines

by Associations and OrganisationsBuilding Management

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU), representing a significant number of UK firefighters, has issued a strong criticism of the newly published government guidelines on building evacuation.

This response comes in the wake of the Home Office’s release of evacuation guidelines for fire and rescue services, specifically for high-rise buildings.

The FBU’s letter, addressed to the Home Secretary, James Cleverly MP, dated 1st March 2024, expresses concerns that the guidelines fail to provide adequate assurance or practical guidance to residents and firefighters, particularly in scenarios reminiscent of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Details from the letter

The letter, penned by Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, states: “These guidelines will not reassure residents in high-rise buildings. They do not help disabled and vulnerable residents.

“These guidelines do not explain to incident commanders how to evacuate high-rise buildings.”

The union emphasises that the guidelines, which are the result of a joint Home Office and Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities technical steering group formed in December 2019, fall short in several critical areas.

The FBU criticises the guidelines for their brevity and lack of substance, noting that they consist of just nine pages and fail to address key issues such as the protection of fire exit routes and specific evacuation procedures for people unable to use stairs.

FBU’s  stance on evacuation guidelines

Wrack further remarked in the letter: “It is a disgrace that more than four years after the GTI report, the Home Office can only manage a publication of nine pages in length containing so little of real substance.”

The FBU’s stance is that the guidelines, while summarising some basic evacuation principles, offer little in the way of new or substantial information that would assist fire and rescue services in effectively planning and executing evacuations in high-rise buildings.

The union also expresses disappointment in the live test exercises conducted by the Home Office, describing them as unrealistic and not representative of conditions in a disaster similar to the Grenfell Tower fire.

IFSJ Comment

The Fire Brigades Union’s critique of the Home Office’s evacuation guidelines highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of residents in high-rise buildings, especially in emergency situations.

The Union’s call for more comprehensive and practical guidance reflects the need for robust policies that address the complexities of high-rise evacuations, including the needs of vulnerable residents.

This situation underscores the importance of continuous improvement in fire safety standards and the vital role of fire and rescue services in protecting the public.

The FBU’s input, as a body representing frontline firefighters, is crucial in shaping effective and realistic fire safety policies.

National Fire Chiefs Council marks progress in Leadership Development Programme

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

New Phase in Direct Entry Scheme for Fire and Rescue Leaders

The National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) Direct Entry scheme, an initiative designed to inject new leadership into fire and rescue services, has reached its first significant milestone.

This development marks the culmination of six weeks of rigorous operational training for six ‘Direct Entrants’.

The pass-out ceremony, held on 16th February at the Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh, celebrated this achievement, which is part of a comprehensive three-year course encompassing operational, leadership, and strategic training.

For the past two decades, leaders have been entering the fire and rescue sector through direct entry.

However, in the previous year, the NFCC launched the first nationally accredited programme to bring consistency and assurance to this route in the sector.

The pilot includes participation from five fire and rescue services: East Sussex FRS, Staffordshire FRS, Oxfordshire FRS, Avon FRS, and Leicestershire FRS.

Intensive Training and Future Steps

The Direct Entry Station Managers began their training before Christmas, undergoing a six-week intensive programme at the Fire Service College.

Their training included mastering various crucial skills such as operating pumps and ladders, using breathing apparatus, managing hazardous materials, delivering fire response emergency care, and more.

Following their pass-out, these managers will return to their respective services to apply their newly acquired skills in real-world scenarios.

At this stage of their development, they will focus on building operational competence without taking on operational decision-making roles.

NFCC views direct entry as a valuable tool to address the complex challenges faced by the sector.

This scheme aims to provide diversity in thought, skills, and experience, complementing traditional progression routes and expanding the talent pool for recruitment in fire and rescue services.

Leaders’ Perspectives on the Programme

Project Executive, Chief Fire Officer Dawn Whittaker, commented on the programme’s demands: “I know from having entered service through direct entry myself, that it requires you to be physically and mentally tough.

“This first phase of the training programme has given Direct Entry Station Managers their first proper taste of that challenge, and they’ve risen to it.”

Similarly, Project Executive, Chief Fire Officer Rob Barber addressed common misconceptions about the scheme: “There are a lot of myths around Direct Entry, one of them being that we’re parachuting people into station manager roles – that couldn’t be further from the truth.

“We’re only at the very start of what is an intensive and tough three-year programme.

“These six weeks at the Fire Service College have set the pace for what’s to come and there’s a way to go yet.”

IFSJ Comment

The NFCC’s Direct Entry scheme represents a forward-thinking approach in enhancing leadership within the fire and rescue services.

This programme, balancing intensive training with gradual immersion in operational roles, illustrates a commitment to nurturing well-rounded leaders equipped for the diverse challenges of modern fire and rescue operations.

By complementing traditional career paths with this innovative scheme, the NFCC not only diversifies its leadership but also enriches the sector with fresh perspectives and skill sets.

This initiative could serve as a model for other sectors seeking to evolve their leadership training and recruitment strategies.

ASFP opens online voting for 2024 Council Election

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Overview of the ASFP election process

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has initiated its 2024 Council Election process, opening an online voting system for its member company employees.

This significant event allows members to select individuals who will shape the future of the industry by representing it on the ASFP Council.

The council, an essential component of the ASFP, plays a key role in defining the organisation’s vision, mission, and strategic direction, while ensuring accountability to its shareholders.

The candidates vying for council positions hail from diverse sectors, including contractors, manufacturers, distributors, and associates, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the fire protection industry.

ASFP has underscored the importance of member participation in the election, emphasizing that the Council is fundamental in guiding the association in a direction that serves its members’ interests.

Key dates and voting details

The announcement of the new ASFP Council is set to occur at the ASFP’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday 11 April 2024 at Drapers’ Hall in London.

Members have until 5pm on Friday 15 March 2024 to cast their votes, with late submissions being ineligible.

The ASFP’s website provides detailed instructions for the voting process, emphasising that each member company has one vote, with the principal contact possessing overriding authority in case of multiple submissions from the same company.

Vote here: https://asfp.org.uk/page/CouncilElection

IFSJ Comment

The ASFP’s initiative in conducting its Council Election through an online platform represents a forward-thinking approach to member engagement and governance.

By facilitating this democratic process, the ASFP ensures that its direction and strategy are shaped by a diverse and representative group of industry professionals.

This election process, crucial for the ASFP’s future trajectory, highlights the importance of active involvement and informed decision-making in industry-specific associations.