UK building safety reforms come into force

by Breaking NewsConstructionIndustry Sectors

Many leaseholders will for the first time be legally protected from unfair bills to make their homes safe as measures in the Building Safety Act 2022 have now come into force.

Those responsible for historical safety defects, and those who own buildings, will instead be required to fund essential repairs.

So far, 45 of the UK’s biggest homebuilders have agreed to fix life-critical fire-safety defects on all buildings 11 metres+ that they have played a role in developing or refurbishing in the last 30 years.

Stronger measures in the act include new powers for the Secretary of State to restrict irresponsible developers’ ability to build new homes, an extension of the Building Safety levy worth an estimated £3 billion and improving building owners’ rights to launch legal action against developers.

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove said: “Today marks a major turning point for building safety in this country, as we introduce a tough new regime to make homes safe and help rid the sector of bad practice once and for all.

“Hundreds of thousands of innocent leaseholders now have the legal protection they rightly deserve, freeing them from a financial burden they should never have faced.

“I’m pleased that most of the largest developers have agreed to play their part in solving this.

“But there is more to do – we are focusing intensively on work with lenders to unlock the mortgage market and empower leaseholders to take their next step on the property ladder, and we will remain vigilant if anyone fails to act on the pledges they have made.”

Where freeholders or owners of buildings over 18m with cladding related issues do not have clear plans to address these issues, they must have full assessments ready to submit to the Building Safety Fund, which will reopen for new applications shortly, helping to ensure applications can be handled in good time, reducing the disruption and stress to leaseholders.

They must inform and consult leaseholders throughout. If they do not do these things, responsible authorities now have the legal powers to compel them to remediate their buildings, and to ensure that they meet the costs.

Alongside this, the government has signed contracts for a new Professional Insurance Indemnity Scheme. This will help assessors conduct EWS1 assessments to identify whether buildings have fire safety risks, ensuring professionals can make sensible decisions and restoring common sense and proportionality to the market.

Leaseholder protections

For the first time, qualifying leaseholders living in buildings above 11 metres tall or with at least 5 storeys will be legally protected from building safety costs:

  • Qualifying leaseholders (those living in their own homes, or with up to 3 UK properties in total) will be protected, in full, from the costs associated with the remediation of unsafe cladding. They will also have robust and far-reaching protections from the costs associated with non-cladding defects, including interim measures like waking watches.
  • It will be illegal for freeholders to pass on the cost of historical building repair works or the removal of cladding to any of their leaseholders, including non-qualifying leaseholders, if they are or are linked to the building’s developer.
  • It will be illegal for freeholders to pass on any historical building safety costs to qualifying leaseholders if they pass the wealth test set out in law.
  • Where a developer cannot be held responsible and the building owner is not required to meet the costs in full, leaseholders with non-cladding related issues will also be protected by a cap on how much they can pay for these costs. The cap will only apply to non-cladding related work for those whose property is valued at more than £325,000 (London) and £175,000 outside London (owners of properties below this ceiling will pay nothing). Where leaseholders have bought through shared ownership, their cap will reflect their share of ownership in the property.
  • Any costs that are not recoverable from leaseholders will need to be met by building owners and landlords.
  • Buyers of new build homes will be able to hold their developer responsible for safety and quality issues under a new scheme from the New Homes Ombudsman.

Making industry pay

New powers for the Secretary of State have been granted to restrict irresponsible developers’ ability to build new homes, including if they refuse to take responsibility for fixing life-critical fire safety defects on all buildings 11 metres+ that they have played a role in developing or refurbishing in the last 30 years.

The Building Safety Levy has been extended to be charged on all new residential buildings. Expected to raise an estimated £3 billion over 10 years, this will fund a new government scheme to pay for the removal of unsafe cladding on buildings of 11-18m where the developer cannot be traced or has failed to agree to cover the costs upfront.

Building owners now have enhanced civil liabilities, enabling them to launch legal action against developers, contractors and manufacturers for shoddy construction works and defective products which have caused homes to be unhabitable in the past 30 years.

Extra powers for the courts in England and Wales have been granted to go after associated companies, meaning businesses who have hidden behind shadowy shell companies within their corporate structures can now be pursued to pay.

These new laws will allow the government to consider appropriate action to pursue these companies as part of a new Recovery Unit that is based in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Improving building standards

New regulations for the industry will enforce a higher quality of building standards – ensuring homes are made safer and that a proportionate approach is taken to safety:

  • A new Building Safety Regulator – overseen by the Health & Safety Executive – will enforce a new, more stringent regulatory regime on the safety and performance of high-rise buildings in scope, in England. It will also consult and respond to safety concerns raised by residents through a new Residents’ Panel.
  • A National Regulator for Construction Products will implement stronger standards on construction manufacturers in the UK. Part of the Office for Product Safety and Standards, this new regulator will conduct vital market surveillance to spot and remove unsafe materials faster, as well as confront poor practice by taking action against those that break the rules.

Welsh government launches cladding crisis support scheme

by Breaking NewsConstructionIndustry SectorsProjects

A new support scheme for those facing significant financial hardship as a result of the cladding crisis has been launched by the Welsh Government to provide tailored, independent advice to leaseholders in affected homes.

It is currently targeted at leaseholders who are owner occupiers and those who have become displaced residents, but the Minister confirmed applications would be monitored and eligibility kept under review to ensure ‘those who need support most have access to the scheme’.

Climate Change Minister Julie James, who confirmed the Leaseholder Support Scheme would open at 10am on Monday, June 27, said: “Today, we are launching the Leaseholder Support Scheme which will help those who need support the most.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the external partners and sector experts who have assisted us in developing this scheme at pace.

“Their support and hard work have been critical to establishing the right qualifying criteria and support processes.”

All leaseholders eligible for this scheme will now receive advice from an Independent Financial Adviser, with the costs fully covered by the Welsh Government.

The advice will support them in making the right choice for them and, if the sale of their property is the right route, the Welsh Government will enable them to sell their property at a fair market value.

Full guidance on the scheme, including the eligibility criteria, will be published on the Welsh Government website at 10am today.

The Minister continued: “Addressing fire safety defects in medium and high-rise buildings must go beyond cladding to make these buildings as safe as they can be.

“This has been our premise from the outset and, although it makes identifying, addressing and resolving issues significantly more complex, it is the right approach.

“There are no quick or easy fixes, but we cannot compromise on achieving the right, sustainable solutions. 

“Anything less leaves the door open to the risk of further issues arising and it is important to me that, once these issues are resolved, they remain resolved.

“We must do this properly, to get it right now and for the future.”

Global fire truck market to reach over $8,000 billion by 2027

by Breaking NewsProductsVehicles

According to a recent report from Mordor Intelligence, the Global Fire Truck Market has been forecast in terms of Value (USD Million) across all segments is expected to reach USD $8211.74 billion by 2027, up from USD $5,501.8 billion in 2021.

Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic affected the fire truck industry worldwide, with the closure of production facilities and transportation businesses causing market instability, causing firefighting vehicle manufacturers to face supply chain issues, the , the market started picking up pace, and the demand for fire fighting vehicles is expected to have notable growth of 6.83% CPAG between 2022-2027.

Evolving government fire safety regulations across all sectors and continuous emphasis of government on the upgradation of fire trucks and associated equipment are expected to drive the demand for fire trucks during the forecast period, but high investments and upfront expenses associated with manufacturing fire vehicles may limit market expansion.

The evolution of electric trucks and growing interest in firefighting apparatuses and local assemblies across the world, however, are expected to create a positive outlook for the market studied.

The fire truck market is segmented by type, by application, and by geography. Based on the type, the market is segmented into type rescue trucks, tanker, pumper, and multi-tasking trucks. Based on the application type, the market is segmented into residential and commercial, enterprises and airports, and military. By geography, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the world. For each segment, the market sizing and forecast are based on value (USD Million).

Rising demand

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there have been more than 400,000 house fire cases reported in the United States every year. These fire incidents bring dreadful culture to the people. The scenarios remain the same not just in the United States but across the world. In addition, several residential/commercial fire incidents are being reported across the world where fire incidents have destroyed the lives and property of the people.

An increasing number of high-rise buildings are also leading local municipalities to upgrade their existing fleet of fire fighting equipment, including trucks.

Regional focus

The fire truck market is expected to be dominated by Asia-Pacific, followed by North America and Europe, during the forecast period.

The presence of key low-cost manufacturers of China, coupled with the rising demand from residential and commercial applications in emerging economies, such as China, South Korea, and India, is expected to drive the market growth during the forecast period.

China is the largest Asian market for fire trucks. However, India has witnessed a key increase in the demand for fire trucks over the past years, owing to the high industrialisation the country is undergoing. Industries from segments including oil refineries, steel plants, industrial corporations, and thermal power generation plants have also been demanding industrial grade fire trucks with special emphasis on foam trucks.

Japan saw a decreasing trend in the number of fire-related fatalities as of 2020. This trend is mostly attributed to the advanced technological developments of fire trucks and decreased response time to a fire alert. 

North America’s growth is primarily driven by the growing requirement of advanced safety infrastructure in residential buildings and commercial complexes, which is expected to augment the market demand.

The fire truck market in Europe and Middle-East, and Africa is primarily by the consumption in applications, such as enterprises, industries, airports, and the military, providing new opportunities for key players to expand in the market.

Finally, some prominent players in the market including Rosenbauer, E-one, Magirus, Oshkosh Corporation, are investing in R&D activities to develop improved products and equipment.

The full report can be found here: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/fire-truck-market

Fire protection system market to grow 6.7%

by Breaking NewsConstructionIndustry SectorsProducts

The global fire protection system market size, which was valued at USD 72.72 billion in 2021, is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% from 2022 to 2030.

In recent years, the market was negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and knock on supply chain disruption across countries and regions. However, the post-pandemic market is expected to grow as the rising urban population which will likely boost demand for fire protection systems.

Fire protection systems include equipment such as fire detectors, fire response systems, fire analysis software, fire suppression systems, and fire sprinkler systems. These systems are installed in various infrastructures, including industrial buildings, residential buildings, and commercial buildings, to safeguard people and reduce the loss of destruction from fire hazards.

The adoption of fire protection systems in several developing countries was initially slow compared to developed nations due to the lack of awareness among consumers regarding the product as well as reduced regulatory pressure. However, the launch of fire safety programs and the use of targeted marketing explaining the benefits of a fire protection system have drawn the attention of large as well as small and medium enterprises, leading to steady market growth in recent years.

Construction of new properties, including residential and non-residential, is expected to offer new opportunities for installing fire alarm and detection systems. An increase in the number of property damage due to fire accidents is also driving the market.

The market for fire protection systems is also being driven by the regulations, standards, and codes imposed by different regulatory bodies as the growing standard has resulted in organisations installing up-to-date fire protection systems. These factors are expected to boost the growth of the market over the forecast period.

Detection

The fire detection segment accounted for more than 50.0% share of the global revenue in 2021. A fire detection system comprises various devices working collectively, which help detect and warn people through video and audio equipment during an incident involving smoke, carbon monoxide, fire, or other emergencies.

The fire analysis segment is expected to register the highest CAGR of 13.6% from 2022 to 2030. The segment growth can be attributed to the increasing need for fire analysis, which helps make proper decisions during fire prevention.

Installation and maintenance

The installation and design service segment accounted for more than 40.0% share of the global revenue in 2021. This refers to the practice of outsourcing the solution for design, development, upgrades documentation and installing processes of the fire protection system. Fire protection systems are being installed across buildings of all sizes as inhabitants increasingly understand the benefits they offer in small, mid-size, and large buildings.

The maintenance services segment is expected to register the highest CAGR of 6.8% from 2022 to 2030. Fire protection systems play a vital role in detecting and alerting people in the event of smoke or fire; however, any fault in the system may lead to accidents and asset losses.

Application Insights

The commercial application segment dominated the market and accounted for more than 45.0% share of the global revenue in 2021, which includes applications for retail, BFSI, government, healthcare, and telecom and IT educational institutions. The demand for fire protection systems in commercial applications is increasing due to the formulation of stricter government rules for fire prevention and control being put in place across the globe.

The industrial application segment is expected to register the highest CAGR of 7.8% from 2022 to 2030. The industrial application covers major sectors such as oil and gas, mining, energy and power, and manufacturing. The need to safeguard automated systems from fire accidents is expected to fuel the growth of the segment.

Regional Insights

North America dominated the market for fire protection systems and accounted for over 35.0% share of the global revenue in 2021, which can be attributed to the rising demand for intelligent houses and smart buildings.

Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR over the forecast period, with countries including as India, China, and Japan expected to drive the regional market. Growing urbanisation and rising awareness among the consumers are also expected to contribute to the growth of the market in this region over the forecast period.

Fire testing market to reach $13 billion by 2032

by Breaking NewsSafety

The global fire testing market has been projected to reach an estimated value of US$13 billion by 2032, almost doubling from US$ 7.1 billion in 2022, rising steadily at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 5.9% during the forecast period.

As the number of deaths and property losses has increased, public awareness of fire safety measures has moved the fire testing market share forward, with the adoption of fire safety systems is becoming more common in countries with limited infrastructure development resources. 

Manufacturers and end-users of valves have seemingly grown more interested in fire-safe testing which in turn has encouraged the adoption of fire testing systems. This is mostly due to an increasing focus on safety and environmental concerns, but also as a consequence of increasingly stringent safety and environmental standards.

The Covid-19 pandemic saw a negative impact on the fire testing market size in the first quarters of 2020, with new fire testing equipment is being installed in fewer industrial and commercial applications. However, as spending on new construction activities rises, this alongside the replacement of old fire alarms, sprinklers, and detectors are likely to fuel the overall demand for fire testing systems in the coming years.

High installation and maintenance costs are expected to limit the growth of the fire testing market share, however.

Key takeaways

With a CAGR of 5.7% and a market value of US$4.5 billion in 2021, the United States dominated the market, largely due to the rapid growth of commercial and industrial building in the United States and Canada.

In the global fire testing industry, Asia Pacific has the highest growth potential, with a CAGR of 6.2%. The growth of the fire testing market is being driven by rapid industrialization and urbanization in developing nations such as China and India.

Countries including Germany, Belgium, and the United Kingdom are expected to have considerable potential need for fire testing in the next years. The fire testing market in China is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 5.3 percent due to rising investments and spending on surveillance infrastructure. Meanwhile, Japan’s fire testing market is expected to increase at a CAGR of 4.3 percent.

The fire testing market is fragmented due to the presence of electrical product manufacturers, and the intensity of competition in the market is moderate and expanding. In order to gain a competitive market share, companies in the industry engage in active innovation by providing sophisticated fire testing methods. The fire testing market is dominated by companies such as Intertek, TUV SUD, SGS Group, Bureau Veritas SA, UL LLC, and others.

Global fire extinguishers market to grow at rate of 5.6%

by Breaking NewsProducts

The fire extinguishers market is expected to witness market growth at a rate of 5.60% in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029 according to a Data Bridge Market Research report.

The market report provides analysis and insights regarding the various factors expected to be prevalent throughout the forecast period while providing their impacts on the market’s growth, with rapid urbanisation cited as a key driver for escalating the growth of fire extinguishers market.

Another cause for market growth is the increase in the number of fire fatalities in homes and businesses across the globe as the introduction of new safety norms by government to prevent any unexpected incident on account of fire outbreaks.

The expansion from prominent companies of product portfolio by including compact, lightweight and cost-efficient fire extinguishers, and investment in merger and acquisitions to expand their consumer-base is also likely to influence the market.

Additionally, increase in food expenditure, change in lifestyle, surge in the disposable income of people and growing awareness positively affect the fire extinguishers market.

Furthermore, increases in preference for eco-friendly and gas- or powder-based fire extinguishers are expected to extend profitable opportunities to the market players in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029.

However, increased price of raw material is expected to cause issues for the market growth as the report says that risk in terms of mild respiratory, skin, or eye irritation is projected to challenge the fire extinguishers market in the forecast period of 2022-2029.

North America dominates the fire extinguishers market because of the rise in construction activities within the region.

Asia-Pacific is expected to witness growth during the forecast period of 2022 to 2029 due to the implementation of strict fire norms in the region.

IFSJ Exclusive: E-Mobility for Fire Services

by Breaking NewsProductsVehicles

Rosenbauer points the way to the future of firefighting vehicles with the its Revolutionary Technology

After going on display at the Emergency Service Show in September 2021 in Birmingham and being tested on the streets of Berlin, Amsterdam, Dubai, and Los Angeles, firefighting vehicle and equipment manufacturer Rosenbauer’s Revolutionary Technology (RT) is among those setting new standards in the fire service industry.

With the RT, Rosenbauer has taken aim at reinventing and redesigning the entire firefighting vehicle with a design that emphasises safety and ergonomics in all respects, boasts a chassis that gives the RT driving characteristics that are more reminiscent of a car than a truck, and provides fire departments with the necessary everyday connectivity to the digital world for the future.

Stable driving

One of the most striking features of the RT is its driving dynamics. Two electric motors with a total output of 2 x 180 kW (peak) or 2 x 130 kW (continuous) drive all four wheels and generate propulsion is a first for emergency vehicles weighing 16 to 18 tons. Its two-speed gearbox ensures that the full torque is available even when starting off on hills, and that there is enough traction for steep gradients.

Due to its compact dimensions (width: 2.35 m) and unique architecture, the driving behaviour of the RT is designed to be more stable than that of firefighting vehicles with a classic body module. Its low-floor chassis has a core tube frame in which one of the two high-voltage batteries is installed, which results in a much lower centre of gravity compared to firefighting vehicles built on truck chassis.

Independent wheel suspension and switchable rear-axle steering are also in place to ensure agility and manoeuvrability, which Rosenbauer says is particularly noticeable when overtaking flowing traffic, in fast bends with a tight curve radius, and when driving on narrow streets. The vehicle also features an air-sprung chassis to allow the driving level to be adjusted to the terrain and the vehicle to be lowered on scene in order to allow unhindered access to the crew cab.

Wireless control point

As you might expect for an electric vehicle, the RT is extensively digitalised. The cockpit offers a command post where all functions from lighting to extinguishing technology can be controlled via a 17″ display centrally installed in the console. Several functions can be activated simultaneously at the push of a button, and the RT can, for example, be switched to ‘ready to start’ or ‘ready to take off’.

A self-contained secure W-LAN network can, for example, be used for wireless control of robots, drones, and other electrical equipment, ensuring networking at the site of deployment, and thanks to the Rosenbauer Connected Fleet Vehicle Management System, the vehicle position, operation and condition can be checked at any time.

Command centre

The soundproofed and air condition cabin’s layout and seating arrangement are designed so that the RT can act as a localised operations centre. The cockpit and crew compartment form a single unit and are fully accessible from end to end. The driver’s and commander’s seats can be turned inward by 90° and the crew seats are situated against the sides of the vehicle and on the rear wall of the cabin, creating a meeting room layout in the cabin for briefings. All relevant data can be shown on the cockpit display, which is visible from all seats.

Mobile power plant

Ensuring firefighting teams are never left without power, the RT is equipped with one or optionally two high-voltage battery storage units, each with a capacity of 66 kWh which feed the traction drive and provide the energy to operate the pump and other consumers at the drafting point. External devices, such as fans or submersible pumps, with a total power consumption of up to 18 kW can be operated simultaneously via the power outlet.

In addition, the RT is equipped with a range extender in the form of a diesel engine with power generator with an output of 225 kW as standard installed in the body to save space. This essentially turns the vehicle into an integrated power plant that automatically recharges the high-voltage batteries when more energy is consumed than stored in them.

At 132 kWh, the battery storage of the RT is sufficient to be able to carry out over 90% of all standard operations purely electrically without the need to recharge, according to the initial experiences of the fire departments which have been testing the vehicle. Whilst using the range extender, the vehicle can see operating times higher than the specifications of EN 1846 can achieve.

Low emissions

According to the Berlin fire department, each electrically powered vehicle would save about 14 tons of CO2 per year compared to a diesel-powered firefighting and rescue vehicle. In addition, recuperation via the electric motors reduces brake wear and also fine dust particles. Exhaust emissions and noise levels are also reduced to a minimum because the energy for lighting and technical equipment comes from the high-voltage batteries, improving the working conditions around the vehicle and reducing the stress levels of the emergency crews.

The future of firefighting

Will fire departments operate fully electrically in the near future? Rosenbauer believes that the answer is yes. The RT has been touring Europe, the US and Canada, as well as parts of Asia over the past two years and has been met with great interest everywhere. Especially in large cities, fire departments have been seen to express a desire to use e-vehicles to help achieve their cities’ ambitious climate targets.

The RT is designed to present a more economic option for firefighting vehicles, not only because of the lower energy costs, but also because 30% fewer parts than conventional vehicles are installed meaning the maintenance effort is reduced. Rosenbauer estimates that around 3,200 e-vehicles will be in use worldwide by 2030, and 700 to 800 could be on the road in Europe by 2025.

Another important future-relevant aspect: The digital vehicle concept of the RT offers the opportunity to network fire departments with one another and with other emergency response organisations using its direct access to Smart City data from the vehicle, enabling firefighters the ability to better plan and carry out operations.

In the future, fire departments will be able to link into traffic control systems and control traffic lights online in order to ensure the fast arrival of emergency vehicles or to block entire sections of the road and will likely use car-to-car communication to warn vehicles up ahead and send traffic jam reports or alternative route suggestions to the vehicles behind. At the same time they will acquire much of the information and data relevant to the operation during the journey from smart buildings and smart traffic lights to smartphones, cameras, sensors, and measuring stations.

During an operation, fire departments will be able to directly access building control systems, guide emergency crews using indoor navigation and remotely monitor their vital signs. Moreover, they will communicate with each other via their own secure networks and use all available information not only during the current operation but also for preventive fire protection for escape route planning or for simulator use.

Complete e-line-up

At Interschutz, the world’s leading trade fair which will be held from June 20 to 25 in Hannover, Germany, Rosenbauer will be among those opening up the next chapter in electric mobility for fire departments. In addition to the RT, a complete line-up of electric firefighting vehicles will be on display, from logistics vehicles to aerial ladders.

Alongside these, a newly developed extinguishing system will be exhibited, which can be used to quickly and reliably extinguish high-voltage batteries in electric cars. In addition, Rosenbauer will demonstrate its expertise in the areas of alternative fuels, autonomous energy systems and equipping fire stations for e-vehicles (charging infrastructure, photovoltaics, etc.).

Andreas Zeller, CSO of Rosenbauer International, adds: “Already in 2012, we outlined the vision of what the future of fire departments would look like in a digitalised and increasingly networked world, and we defined our investment strategy based on this. The most important conclusion for us from this was that the RT is the firefighting vehicle of the future. After all, vehicles are a part of Rosenbauer’s DNA.”

This article was originally published in the June edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Cutting edge solutions: Weber Rescue Systems showcases smart rescue equipment

by Breaking NewsProducts

The slogan “Let’s create future” has been WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS’ motto for quite some time. With the presentation of the new battery tool series at Interschutz 2022, the slogan has at last been realised. The innovative rescue equipment manufacturer demonstrates how digitalisation and networking – the leading theme of the trade fair – are also making their way into the fire department.

Just in time for the firefighting international trade fair, WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS is presenting the new SMART-FORCE tool series, which marks a milestone in rescue tool technology. Revolutionary cutting technologies, high-performance batteries from Milwaukee and the use of smart additional functions will make accident rescue significantly faster and more efficient in the future. In addition to digitalisation, underwater use, service and training are also taken into consideration with the new product series.

Intelligent rescue

With the introduction of the new device series, smart functions are integrated into the rescue device itself for the first time. The SMART-FORCE devices enable communication via WLAN/UMTS connection and offer numerous additional functions for device control and management within their own app, including a pressure display, a training and theft mode, and the ability to analyse the current device status.

“Visitors to Interschutz can look forward to a wealth of new possibilities here, which we will be demonstrating live at our booth,” says Patrick Allinger, Product Manager responsible for the smart features of the new rescue equipment.

In recent years, battery-powered devices have become the standard in firefighting technology, proving over time that they are in no way inferior to hose-bound devices. By switching to the Milwaukee M18 High-Output battery technology, this offers a major advantage for rescue forces as one battery can be used for all operations currently across the range of 17 SMART-FORCE rescue tools from WEBER RESCUE and over 200 compatible Milwaukee tools.

Additionally, thanks to a robust, waterproof and dustproof housing, the new devices are submersible regardless of whether it is fresh, salt or dirty water, thanks to the IP 68 design. This enables work even under extreme conditions, such as high water or vehicle recovery under water.

Smooth Cut technology

In addition to the SMART-FORCE devices, WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS is presenting a new cutter series with innovative cutting technology at Interschutz.

“The new SMOOTH CUT technology represents a quantum leap in cutting performance,” explains Product Manager Hannes Buchner. It allows us to ensure quiet, low-stress and therefore safe cutting performance with low weight.” The new technology has now also enabled the device capable of cutting through the strongest standard material F7 according to the American NFPA 1936 standard.

The new shape of the blade inserts means that only one roll pin needs to be changed. “This saves time and money. The Plus blade inserts can be changed by anyone in one minute directly at the point of use, and immediately resume working,” Buchner points out.

WEBER RESCUE continues to rely on forged blades that can withstand extreme loads. The forging process pre-shapes the material in the direction of the load, meaning the risk of blade breakage is greatly reduced even under extreme stress.

The new extreme U-shape makes it possible to grip the vehicle pillar even better, featuring an acute angle making them even sharper with two continuous teeth bite into the material and hold it at the pivot point during cutting.

Systemised crashing

The crash system presented as part of this year’s roadshow, the WEBER RESCUE Experience Tour, will also be presented to an international audience for the first time at Interschutz.

In co-operation with the S-GARD SAFETY TOUR, practice vehicles will be crashed live on the outdoor exhibition area. The crash system can be used to realistically recreate various scenarios for exercises. In addition to frontal, side and rear impacts on passenger cars, accident patterns on larger vehicles such vans and truck cabs can also be simulated. This is designed to make the exercises more realistic and optimally prepares firefighters for accidents like those that happen every day on our roads.

Flexible applications

Other product highlights from WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS at the show include the Handvario RIT-Tool, WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS’ recently developed hand-operated combination tool for rapid intervention teams (RIT) which functions completely independent of a power supply with hose or battery, enabling flexibility. The interchangeable tips and a wide range of accessories make it suitable for use in a variety of situations, from opening doors to pulling loads or pushing away obstacles.

The device can also be used under water up to a depth of 25 meters and its small size makes it easy to stow away and quick to deploy. Optimum cutting performance is ensured via high strength, forged lightweight blades. For user-friendly operation, the headpiece can be rotated 360-degrees.

The company is also promoting its compact battery-powered unit with an XL-sized hydraulic oil tank, which features a usable volume of five litres and allows the operation of any equipment combination. In Eco mode, the unit can run for up to ten hours and a connection to the external continuous power supply is also available.

Digital solutions

Digitalisation has long been a core topic for WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS. To drive development in this area, a separate subsidiary was founded – RESCUE DIGITAL SYSTEMS GmbH. The company develops individual and easy-to-use apps and software applications in the areas of: alerting, administration, training, accident prevention, rescue and many more.

The new product configurator for the RIT tool makes it possible to configure necessary accessories such as battery and tips as well as additional gadgets online. From this, a pdf document is automatically created, which can be sent to WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS as a request with one click.

With WEBER RESCUE System’s seismographic measurement via app, RETTERSeismo, vibrations and movements are detected via smartphone, enabling an early acoustic warning of the emergency forces in the event of uncontrolled changes in the situation. In addition, the data can also be evaluated for training purposes. The app’s multimode makes it possible to network up to 16 sensors that are attached to the object and track the operation or exercise in detail using mobile, providing data for handling the patient during the rescue of persons from buildings or accident vehicles and is a valuable support for the training of aid organisations.

Remote learning

Coronavirus and social distancing have shown that e-learning is an ideal complement to the training of rescue workers. WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS offers two platforms that are also available as an app: RETTERAcademy and WEBER RESCUE Academy

RETTERAcademy, the individual e-learning platform, allows organisations to create their own e-learning platform. In addition to creating their own learning content, the layout can also be customised to suit the organisation in question, with customisable colours or logos able to be selected to ensure a unique appearance. In the backend, organisation’s own courses, videos, knowledge tests and certificates can be stored. The courses and videos can be completed independently of time.

WEBER RESCUE Academy, the learning platform, provides courses, expert videos and materials on various WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS topics. This content can be purchased via the WEBER RESCUE online store and accessed in the individuals own account. A certificate of participation is issued upon completion of a course. WEBER RESCUE Academy and RETTERAcademy are also available as APP.

On WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS RETTER AR application, training takes place in a virtual environment. Exercises and scenarios such as a head-on car collision, a rear-end collision or a house fire can be projected into the real environment and trained without any risk. In addition, technical data on the respective equipment used can be called up. With the Pro version, it will soon also be possible to connect to multiple devices.

Raising the alarm

Finally, WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS is showcasing its RETTERAlarm offers a perfect supplement to alerting via radio detectors or the siren. RETTERAlarm makes it possible to alert emergency forces individually, in groups, or even subsequently again in a targeted manner, via either push notification, e-mail, SMS or voice call as appropriate to each emergency worker. It also offers other practical tools such as calendar for events or training services, readiness query, chat function, integration of smart home, alarm monitors for the fire station.

As an extension of RETTERAlarm, ZEUS offers even more efficient, comprehensive and detailed mission management. The display of situation maps as well as the display of deployment plans is possible. ZEUS offers the possibility to make an operation documentation, which can be used afterwards for the operation report. 

This article was originally published in the June edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

INTERSCHUTZ opens its doors

by Breaking NewsEvents

INTERSCHUTZ officially opens its doors today in Hannover. Brand-new topics, innovations and a broad supporting program consisting of conferences, competitions, workshops and live training are all on show at the trade fair for fire brigades, rescue services, civil protection and safety/security which will runs until June 26.

What to expect

Against the backdrop of the current geopolitical challenges, the accompanying humanitarian crises and the increasing natural disasters caused by climate change, INTERSCHUTZ provides the urgently needed framework to engage in international discourse and jointly develop solutions to protect human lives.

“INTERSCHUTZ is more important today than ever before,” emphasized Dr. Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Managing Board of Deutsche Messe AG. More than 1,300 exhibitors from over 50 countries are looking forward to seeing their customers at the exhibition.

Parallel to INTERSCHUTZ, the German Fire Brigades Association (DFV) is organizing the 29th German Firefighters’ Day, to which the citizens of the city of Hannover and all international exhibition guests are invited. The event will kick off with a “Blue Light Mile” on Sunday in advance of the exhibition in the Hannover city center.

DFV President Karl-Heinz Banse is also looking forward to INTERSCHUTZ: “This is going to be a successful exhibition, indeed it is going to be a great 29th German Firefighters’ Day! At last, we can meet in person again, discuss technical issues, set the political course, and maintain and expand our national and international network of fire brigades. I’m really looking forward to the big events: Hannover will be the center of the firefighting world from 20 – 25 June 2022.”

Digitalization, population protection and sustainability

With the lead theme “Teams, Tactics, Technology – Connecting Protection and Rescue” , INTERSCHUTZ makes it clear where the journey is headed in the future. The digitalization of the firefighting and rescue sector is driving innovation and making a significant contribution to enabling emergency services to work even faster, more purposefully and more effectively. Visitors can get an overview of the wide range of solutions.

The first port of call on the subject of digitalisation is Hall 16: From the “digital twin” to modern communications and control center technology, it is full of innovations. The use of drones for reconnaissance flights, rescue and firefighting robots, the latest 5G applications and digital features on personal protective equipment will also be on display here and in the other halls.

“Speed, safety and quality are essential criteria for successful firefighting and rescue service operations,” said Dirk Aschenbrenner, President of the Association for the Promotion of German Fire Protection (vfdb). “Today, digitalized processes are already helping to improve operational procedures.” A look at industry and the economy gives an idea of the possibilities that can be exploited in the future to digitally optimize the emergency response system.

INTERSCHUTZ will also focus on other important topics, including civil protection. In times of increasing crisis situations, disaster management organizations are facing challenges as never before. The latest developments in robotics and the prototype of a pontoon boat at the stand of the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief show the direction in which civil protection will be heading in the future.

The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, together with numerous partners, will present the pilot project “Laboratory Care 5,000”. At the voluntary humanitarian organization Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe, rescue missions are simulated via virtual reality, making the new demands on teams visible.

Product innovations also await guests at the exhibition in the area of vehicle technology. Alternative drive systems for emergency vehicles, for example, will play a major role at INTERSCHUTZ in Hannover. The pioneer here is the global Rosenbauer Group, which will be presenting, among other things, the world’s first fully electric turntable ladder at its stand in Hall 27.

The Berlin Fire Brigade is also bringing a Rosenbauer fire truck with electric drive to Hannover. In addition, electric vehicles for emergency command or transport of injured persons will be on display at the exhibition.

These, as well as other topics, can be covered in live, hands-on training sessions for emergency personnel at INTERSCHUTZ.

Six days of excitement and information

INTERSCHUTZ highlights also include the Holmatro Rescue Challenge (Monday to Friday) and the Firefit European Championships (Monday to Saturday), in which the best international firefighters compete against one another. In full gear and with breathing protection; among other things, they will have to climb a twelve meter high tower and pull up a fire hose.

After the impact machine, participants will run through a short slalom course and then pick up a filled fire hose to extinguish a target fire. In the final sprint, the goal is to rescue an 80 kilogram dummy and carry it to the finish line. It will be interesting to see whether the world record of 1:11 minutes will be broken at INTERSCHUTZ 2022.

Things will also get exciting at the new Hackathon@INTERSCHUTZ – a competition on the topic of civil protection and disaster control (23 – 25 June). This is about who comes up with the best ideas and strategies to incorporate artificial intelligence into crisis and situation management.

Civil protection will also be the focus of the CP Symposium on 21 – 22 June. In addition, there are various presentation stages at the stands of partners and exhibitors. The central INTERSCHUTZ Forum in Hall 26 will offer visitors more than 130 presentations where they can join in the discussion.

The conference covers all important aspects of the exhibition and focuses on one topic area each day: Preventive fire protection (Monday), Civil protection and disaster management (Tuesday), Forest fires and firefighting (Wednesday), Digitalization (Thursday) and Rescue services (Friday). The conference program will be broadcast live on the web, giving interested parties who cannot be on site this year the opportunity to follow INTERSCHUTZ live with all its exciting topics.

Digital participation also includes the networking feature, which allows out-of-town visitors to connect digitally with attendees at the exhibition via the INTERSCHUTZ website.

Platform for international exchange and mutual learning

Networking and exchange is also the goal of numerous international firefighting and civil protection delegations. Globe-trotting experts from more than 15 countries, including Australia, India, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and South Korea, plan to use INTERSCHUTZ to gain an overview of the industry’s advancements and expand their network.

“INTERSCHUTZ is the industry’s Number 1 platform for international exchange,” Mr. Köckler emphasized. He is particularly looking forward to the three Partner Countries France, Italy and the USA, which will be in the spotlight from Tuesday to Thursday. Experts will report on the special features of fire protection, safety and rescue in their countries at the joint country stands and in the stage program.

Italy, for example, is one of the countries with the highest natural disaster risk. In addition to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, landslides, floods and storm surges, the country also frequently has to contend with forest fires – an issue that is increasingly becoming a challenge in Germany as well under the influence of climate change.

Help for Ukraine

In addition to the three Partner Countries, Ukraine will also be in the spotlight at this year’s INTERSCHUTZ. Many fire brigades and aid organizations are doing their best every day, not only in the country but also in neighboring countries where Ukrainian refugees have been sheltering since Russia launched its war.

INTERSCHUTZ has launched a fundraising campaign in order to make an active contribution and to support the people in Ukraine, as well as the fire brigades and rescue units based there: “We will donate one euro to the good cause for every visitor to INTERSCHUTZ,” Köckler announced.

100 percent of the donations will go to the “Firefighters Aid for Ukraine” fund organized by the German Fire Brigades Association (DFV), and the donation check will be handed over to the responsible persons on Saturday, 25 June within at the DFV Delegates Meeting.

Tickets & COVID policies

Tickets for INTERSCHUTZ can be purchased on the INTERSCHUTZ website (www.interschutz.de) or at the box offices at the entrances (North 1, West 1 and 2, South 1). Day tickets cost 24 euros, concessionary tickets are 19 euros. The season ticket for the entire duration of the fair is 54 euros. Admission is from 9 AM to 6 PM Monday to Saturday. The digital offerings (conference, networking) can be used free of charge.

There are no longer any COVID-related access restrictions to the exhibition grounds. No vaccination status is requested, nor is evidence of a negative COVID test required. In addition, there is no general requirement to wear a mask, but for personal protection, wearing a mask indoors is recommended. The specifications of the respective exhibitors apply at the exhibition stands. Masks are still compulsory on public transport.

IFSJ Exclusive: Next Generation Firefighting vehicles

by Breaking NewsProductsVehicles
Magirus talks about how firefighting is entering a new level of efficiency and safety with tactical robots, drones and digital solutions

With the presentation of the new generation of turntable ladders with SmartControl, digital solutions like TacticNet or FleetConnect and a brand-new series of fire-fighting and tactical response robots, Germany-based manufacturer Magirus has developed a product portfolio with intelligent networking in many key areas of firefighting.

Its digital-innovative evolution has set new standards for the operational capability, effectiveness and safety of fire brigades. Located in Ulm, the traditional company started its journey to the “Next Generation Firefighting” more than two years ago and presented in the meantime a series of innovative products and solutions to face today’s and tomorrow’s challenges of fire-fighters all around the world.

The premiere of the Wolf R1 robot

With the premiere of the powerful, flexibly deployable tactical response robot with a completely electric drive, Magirus expanded its product range of robotic vehicles at the Civil Protect trade fair in Bolzano in September 2021. The company was taking the next logical step in the field of robotic, remote-controlled firefighting and emergency vehicles. The Magirus Wolf R1 was specially developed to meet the significantly increased requirements of complex, high-risk operations. It combines performance and multifunctionality that are unequalled in this class.

The Magirus Wolf R1 tactical robot allows firefighters to stay out of harm’s way in conditions of intense heat, collapse dangers, hazardous materials investigations or poor visibility, while persevering on the spot with complete precision. Specialised camera systems enable all-round visibility; robust data transmission solutions ensure that the operations command is always supplied with the latest live images and videos. The all-electric crawler drive with 1,050 Nm torque allows the Wolf R1 to move purposefully and quietly on the most difficult surfaces and to act flexibly.

Its performance is particularly useful for high-risk firefighting, reconnaissance, and security tasks. The operational robot has a tractive force of up to four tonnes and reaches a top speed of up to 15 km/h. Its battery capacity is particularly high and can function without tools and can be almost endlessly extended by means of an exchangeable battery. Furthermore, the Wolf R1 features an intuitive and flexible control via radio remote-controlled visual guidance with a range of up to 150 metres, or alternatively, as command control via a system carrier vehicle with a range of up to 2,500 metres.

Tactical mission support

When used with Magirus’s TacticNet tactical operations network and drone escort, the robot holds unrivalled potential, opening up a new level of safety and maximum transparency for mission commanders in difficult-to-access, large-scale, munitions-laden areas, forest fires, tunnels, or the reconnaissance of hazardous situations.

The tactical operations network offers an unprecedented overview of the entire operational area which gives the incident commander a complete overview of the entire operational area at all times live and in real-time allowing the best possible decisions and the best possible action. The WiFi-based and location-independent network also offers the possibility of integrating any number of units and task forces.

The network’s services range from establishing a WiFi-based local network and the provision of livestreams from camera and thermal imaging drones as well as combining map information, images and deployment positions of vehicles and personnel to the map-based selection of units for effective command and control of task forces.

Thanks to the integration of a wide range of information sources, the incident commander and decision-makers on all levels have access to all relevant information quickly, comprehensively and even under challenging circumstances such as limited visibility or difficult terrain conditions. On this basis, the right decisions can be made effectively, allowing the deployment task forces and equipment with maximum safety and efficiency.

TacticNet spans a robust, local mesh operation area network in which participants are linked together via the monitor in the command vehicle, separate tablets and mobile phones. It is location-independent and can be expanded as required. TacticNet allows to superimpose static maps and dynamic images of the respective operational areas as well as information on the locations and status of task forces and vehicles, for example, and, in future, also infrastructure data. HD video communication provides access to unfiltered live information in real-time for everyone involved in the decision-making chain.

The more complex an operational situation is, the more important it is to have up-to-date and comprehensive information. TacticNet provides a decisive safety advantage by displaying the live positions of all units and restricted areas, for example: restricted areas can be directly taken into account in the instructions of incident commanders, avoiding danger zones. Particularly in complex situations such as rapidly spreading building fires, extensive forest fires or large fires in industrial plants, TacticNet offers a completely new quality of situation assessment and provides an extremely valuable basis for quick, targeted decisions, enabling even more successful operations.

Across the Alps

Eight years after the unveiling of the first robot from the AirCore family and only several months after its premiere, the history of Magirus’ remote-controlled and remote-operated tactical units continued with the handover of the first Magirus Wolf R1 in Ehrwald on 18 May 2022. In an extraordinary ceremony on Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze, the company handed over the world’s first tactical response robot to the Ehrwald Volunteer Fire Department in Austria.

Björn Scherer, Chief Fire Inspector of the Ehrwald Volunteer Fire Department, is particularly proud of the latest, sustainable expansion of the brigade’s technology and equipment: “In Ehrwald, we are a small, but very innovative fire brigade. The topography and tourism pose special challenges for us. The range of operations is very diverse, yet all the locations must always be quickly and safely accessible – especially off-road, in tunnels and in underground garages, this is not always easy. We have been searching for a long time for solutions to quickly reach deployment scenes that are difficult to access without putting our firefighters in danger. The Magirus Wolf R1 response robot allows us to do just that.”

A new era begins

On the part of the District Fire Brigade command and the District Fire Brigade inspectorate, represented by District Fire Brigade Commander Dietmar Berktold and District Fire Brigade Inspector Konrad Müller, a clear commitment was made to innovative, effective and, above all, protective and supportive equipment for the emergency services.

“The tactical response robot allows firefighters to remain outside the danger zone in the event of intense heat, danger of collapse, hazardous material investigations or poor visibility, while the robot is in action right there with full precision,” says Berkold. “The attached subframe developed for Ehrwald enables the most flexible mounting options for diverse firefighting equipment.”

Thomas Hilse, Magirus CEO, backs this: “Being able to hand over the first Magirus Wolf R1 on the Zugspitze is truly exceptional. Within special applications, robotic and networked solutions are developing rapidly and offer far-reaching advantages in the field. As a tactical operational robot, the Wolf R1 brings safety and efficiency, but also precision, flexibility and tremendous performance.” The Magirus Wolf R1 was developed together with its partner Alpha Robotics Deutschland GmbH and has already been extensively tested and used in practice by fire brigades in Lower Saxony.

According to Hilse, the handover is a further step in “Next Generation Firefighting”, which is already available to emergency services today and clearly demonstrates Magirus’ innovative strength in this field. The company will consistently pursue this path in the coming years and thus provide fire brigades all over the world with the most modern and reliable technology.

This article was originally published in the June edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.