Exclusive: Considerations for outsourcing aviation fire and rescue services

by AviationBreaking NewsIndustry Sectors

Chris Thain, Business Development Manager for Fire & Rescue Service at G3 Systems Ltd, talks outsourcing aviation fire and rescue services

When it comes to outsourcing a process to an outside organisation there is always a lot to consider in terms of how it will affect the business as it could affect staff numbers and impact existing management systems and processes.

To find out about the ins and outs outsourcing aviation fire and rescue services, International Fire and Safety Journal caught up with Chris Thain, Business Development Manager for Fire & Rescue Service at G3 Systems Ltd, a supplier of bespoke operational delivery of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) and Industrial Rescue and Firefighting Services (RFFS) to airports and high-risk industrial facilities around the world.

Why should businesses consider outsourcing their ARFF and RFSS services?

Outsourcing fire and rescue services can enable organisations to concentrate on their core business, while continuing to maintain and improve safety, resilience, and regulatory compliance. It enables companies to focus on their own customers’ needs while delegating essential but non-core requirements to external specialist providers. This releases internal resources that can be put to more effective use for other purposes, leading to greater overall efficiency and competitiveness.

It is unrealistic for airport operators to be experts in every business function, process, and discipline required to manage a modern airport, it is simply far too expensive to maintain this level of knowledge and expertise internally. By utilising outsourced service providers, airport operators can leverage a global knowledge base and resource centre, accessing world class capabilities, skills, and expertise that they may have been precluded from previously.

What are some of the key benefits of outsourcing?

Managed ARFF service providers often have access to a wider, more highly skilled, and diverse talent pool than the client themselves and will already have in place the requisite interview and selection processes designed to select only the strongest, most appropriately qualified, and experienced staff.

Training and competence management can reflect global best practice, with industry and/or site-specific risks recognised, evaluated, and reflected in the ongoing training provided to the ARFF staff members.

Shared experiences gained from a variety of different airports or industrial operations, coupled with specialist skill sets, ongoing education, learning and professional development and best working practices also enable the outsourced service provider to add value and resilience to and further reduce risk within the client’s operation.

As specialists in their field, outsourced ARFF service providers are generally much better at deciding how to cost effectively avoid risk in their areas of expertise without compromising safety and response, than perhaps a fully employed on-site team might be.

What are the biggest concerns around outsourcing?

Firstly, there is issue of compliance. If we assume that the vehicles and equipment provided by or for the ARFF meet the ICAO standards for the airport Category and that they are well maintained and fit for purpose, then the only other variable affecting the service delivery and compliance standards is the ARFF officers and staff that are engaged on the contract.

The second issue often stems from concerns around management control and responsibility for delivery. Relinquishing a degree of authority and responsibility can be difficult but By delegating and working as partners, communicating openly, honestly and in a timely manner, and through building close working relationships, we quickly overcome any feelings of doubt or concern.

Thirdly, the issue of cost versus benefit must always be addressed. While airport ARFF services may be seen by some as an expensive mandatory cost, in most cases the provision of an outsourced ARFF service can deliver cost savings in other areas of airport maintenance and management.

Finally, a common misconception is that outsourcing an existing airport ARFF service to a third-party provider will result in firefighters losing their jobs. This is simply not the case. In most situations, it makes sense for the outsourced provider to retain as many of the incumbent staff as possible on the contract.

What are the cost considerations involved in outsourcing?

People and equipment form the largest elements of cost for any ARFF service. Labour costs, including the costs of employment, vary from country to country and from role to role within the ARFF itself. The mix of officers to firefighters, the availability and recruitment of ex-pat staff versus local staff and the contractual conditions of work all influence the final cost of labour for the end customer. It is also very important to consider local employment terms and conditions and to ensure that costs such as social insurance, pensions and contractual stipends are captured and included.

Similarly, emergency vehicles and the technical equipment required to effectively fight fires and rescue people in modern aircraft and airport incidents can be very expensive. For example, a typical airport crash rescue tender can range in price from $500,000 to more than $1.2 million depending upon the age, technical specification, and the category of airport the vehicle is required to protect. Given that a CAT 10 airport requires a minimum of three such vehicles fully loaded with PPE and safety equipment, you can quickly see how the costs to deliver the ARFF service can mount up.

Other ancillary costs for the ARFF service will include staff travel, training and certification costs, communications, IT and data costs, licenses, and permit costs, insurances, medical support and, in some extreme cases, security and life support costs.

What should businesses consider when deciding to outsource when it comes to selecting a partner organisation?

The first consideration should be around timing – when is the new service required to be at full operating capacity and is there enough time work through the tendering and selection process to ensure a successful outcome? The earlier that engagement can begin with potential partner organisations, the better for all parties.

The next consideration is to know what ARFF services you require – being clear on the full scope of requirement early in the process will ensure clarity for all parties and will deliver a smoother, more cost-efficient service in the longer term.

Finally, be realistic about the budget for delivering a fully compliant ARFF service for your aerodrome – manage the expectations of those responsible for allocating and approving the budget and ensure that the safety of travellers, airport staff and firefighters always remains the highest priority.

What are the main services you offer for customers looking to outsource their aviation fire and rescue services?

G3 systems offer the following main services for our customers:

  • Structural & industrial rescue & fire fighting service
  • Aviation crash/rescue & fire fighting services
  • Emergency dispatch & control
  • Incident command & control
  • On-site fire safety, fire inspection & service
  • Emergency vehicle management & maintenance
  • Fire & rescue equipment and facilities management & maintenance
  • Fire & rescue training
  • Emergency medical services

How do you analyse the needs and requirements of potential clients?

Assessing the needs of a potential client begins with a conversation to determine what kind of airport they are operating (Civilian, Military or both, or Heliport/Seaplane Airport etc.) and what the ICAO Category for the airport is or will be. This immediately helps determine the number and type of emergency vehicles that are required to meet the regulations (ICAO Annex 14 Document 9137 Part 1: Rescue and Fire Fighting) and therefore the minimum number of staff that will be required to effectively deliver the ARFF service.

We determine if the airport is already operational, with an incumbent ARFF service, or if the airport is a new development requiring a first time ARFF presence. The geographic location of the airport is also important as we need to understand the local operating conditions, both physically and environmentally as well as commercially. We also need to understand the timing requirements for the airport and the process that the customer will undertake for competitive tendering.

A task resource analysis is conducted, and mobilisation and project management plans created to understand exactly how the new ARFF service will be implemented. We then also have our strict risk based internal process to navigate, ensuring that any responsibilities and liabilities that we take on are manageable and viable for us as an organisation.

What are you focused on at the moment?

We have some exciting prospects on the horizon and are currently working on new projects in the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian Subcontinent, which we hope will result in long term ARFF contracts taking us into the 2030’s.

In the meantime, we are also actively engaged with trade organisations such as the Airport Fire Officers Association and attending events such as Interschutz 2022, to continue to meet with our clients and colleagues across the aviation industry and to support the sector as much as possible.

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

Show Preview: INTERSCHUTZ returns to Hannover

by Breaking NewsEvents

The world’s leading trade fair of fire safety professionals is set to take place this month with over a thousand exhibitors from 50 countries and delegates from all over the world

Scheduled to take place on Hannover, Germany, seven years since it last brought the fire industry INTERSCHUTZ finally returns this month and is set to welcome fire safety professionals from across the globe. The show will feature solutions and products from industry leaders, provide answers to some of the industry’s biggest issues and offers a forum for discussion of key trends. Focussing on the future, the event is a showcase across industrial sectors and national borders.

Staged over six days, INTERSCHUTZ will provide a platform for market leaders to present their innovations and puts the focus on the lead theme: Teams, Tactics, Technology – Connected for Protection and Rescue. It is also set to be a place of action and excitement where the likes of height rescue specialists, smokejumpers and firefighters demonstrate their unique skills and all the latest kit at popular events on the open-air site.

Across the week-long event, the agenda is full of current issues and developments including: civil protection with a focus on vehicles and equipment, fire fighting and fire extinguishing technology, associations, communications and control centre solutions, security and organisational equipment, rescue services, first aid and medical equipment, personal protective equipment and fire prevention. 

For the first time, INTERSCHUTZ has  also dedicated a complete hall to the topic of digitalisation where companies and research institutions will be presenting solutions for the digital networking of systems and players.

The international trade fair will bring together stakeholders and thought leaders from trade associations, politics and industry as well as those with day-to-day operational experience. It is a show that will see business at its heart as it highlights the world’s providers of fire and rescue services, civil protection, and safety and security solutions as it shapes their business cycles.

There will be 1,000 companies from 50 countries as well as the participating associations and organisations will present the solutions for the challenges of our time. Anyone who wants to learn about the latest emergency management innovations and developments heads for Hannover when the gates open on INTERSCHUTZ.

What to expect at INTERSCHUTZ

The economic, ecological and political challenges of our times make the fair an important driver of change. The spread of global warming and the resulting natural disasters have already changed everyday life for many helpers and rescue forces – a challenge made more complex by the Coronavirus pandemic and the humanitarian emergencies caused by ongoing political conflicts.

The fire industry are among those on the front lines tackling these issues which all require new approaches and solutions. Digital technologies for the support and connectivity of key players are becoming increasingly important, which is why INTERSCHUTZ 2022 will specifically focus on digital transformation processes and so visitors can look forward to an extensive program both live on-site and online.

The lead theme of INTERSCHUTZ 2022 is: “Teams, Tactics, Technology – Connecting Protection and Rescue”. According to INTERSCHUTZ Project Manager Bernd Heinold, the trade fair is targeting two aspects that are crucial for the present and the future: the use of innovative digital solutions and cooperation between the various players and institutions.

“The keyword is connectivity at all levels,” Heinold explained during a press conference in Hannover, ahead of the fair. “Digitalisation has fundamentally changed all areas of life and continues to do so. The same is true for emergency response – from firefighters to rescue services right through to disaster responders, all over the world.”

For the first time, INTERSCHUTZ has dedicated a complete hall to the topic of digitalisation. In Hall 16, companies and research institutions will be presenting solutions for the digital networking of systems and players. New technologies are opening up myriad new preventative options and ways of coping with crises and hazards for the fire industry. Everything that happens generates data, which can be captured and cross-matched in vast quantities and used to develop key insights and analyse alternative courses of action for a whole range of requirements and situations.

As increased interconnectedness and integration goes hand in hand with increased dependence on technology infrastructures, INTERSCHUTZ will look at the best way to enable societies to deal with modern crisis situations.

Another new feature of the show is the ‘Smart Public Safety Hub’ at the center of Hall 16, where various companies will be networking under a single roof and demonstrating joint, interdisciplinary application scenarios – for example, including the use of drones to assess the situation or support rescue forces, communication between an airfield firefighting vehicle positioned in the outdoor area with the control center in the hall, or the digital description and analysis of deployment sites on a multi-dimensional scale.

At INTERSCHUTZ, it is not only the exhibitors’ solutions that are digital, but also the event formats. For the first time, visitors and exhibitors be able to experience different scenarios up close on the demonstration grounds in a combination of real and virtual displays. These may include everyday disasters as well as current or conceivable catastrophes and crises and with the help of modern media technology, the participants are integrated into the presentation.

Also new is the INTERSCHUTZ Digital Conference, which is scheduled to be broadcast from 21-23 June in the Media Factory, allowing interested parties who cannot make it to the event the opportunity to learn about the various aspects on show. Like the INTERSCHUTZ Central Forum in Hall 26, the program will cover all the major industry topics, including the electrification of emergency vehicles.

Bernd Heinold explains that, despite the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, the interest of exhibitors from Germany and abroad is extensive with more than 1,000 companies from 50 countries registered to present their products and solutions in eight halls and three pavilions, plus the outdoor area from 20 to 25 June.

However, he says the acquisition phase is far from over: “We are confident of achieving a similar result on the exhibitor side, the same as in 2015,” he said. After Germany, the top five exhibitor nations include Italy, the UK, the United States and the Netherlands. The broad international character of INTERSCHUTZ will also be demonstrated by three separate ‘Country Days’, dedicated to the neighbouring countries of France on Tuesday 21, Italy on Wednesday 22 June, and finally the US on Thursday 23 June.

What’s on the agenda

Staged over six days, INTERSCHUTZ features eye-catching exhibitions and engaging forums on the many aspects of fire fighting, rescue services, civil protection and safety and security.

Civil Protection: Disaster management mobilisations pose major logistical as well as technical challenges. Solutions for meeting those challenges – everything from tents for stay, accommodation or sanitation purposes, mobile power supply or flood protection – will be on show in the civil protection display area at INTERSCHUTZ 2022.

Fire Fighting: Fire brigades from around the globe are faced with an ever-changing set of catastrophic scenarios and major emergencies caused by natural disasters and climate change require closer interaction among the various players. INTERSCHUTZ will showcase vehicles and equipment, hardware and software as well as research and development up close and first-hand. Digital technologies and connected operations in the face of an emergency will be displayed at exhibition stands and discussed in related conferences.

Communications and Control Center Solutions: Increasing urban densification and continuously changing operational scenarios demand innovative digital solutions and seamless cooperation between all players involved. Within the new Digitisation and Transformation display sector, current and future requirements for networked solutions will be put forward and discussed.

Rescue Services: The rescue services are faced with a number of new challenges and developments, not least demographic change, telemedicine, a skills shortage, and large-scale catastrophic incidents. They are under constant pressure to scrutinize their strategic direction and to keep up to date with the latest technologies, which is why INTERSCHUTZ is so important as it will provide a comprehensive survey of the latest emergency-sector products.

Protective Equipment: The requirements for personal protective equipment are becoming more and more individual. From smart textiles to integrated communication solutions for fire protection, rescue services and civil protection, at INTERSCHUTZ there will be the entire range of PPE for all areas of application.

Fire Prevention: Modern building designs, bigger dimensions and densely built-up areas are leading to new requirements for preventive fire protection. INTERSCHUTZ covers all the relevant areas, from planning to implementation. Here you can swap ideas with specialists from around the world within the framework of this, the industry’s networking hub for preventive fire protection.

Parallel to INTERSCHUTZ, the German Fire Brigade Association (DFV) is organizing the 29th German Firefighters’ Day, which will attract many more firefighting fans to Hannover. The event is being organized under the motto ‘Safety.Life’ in cooperation with the state of Lower Saxony, the Lower Saxony Fire Brigade Association, the City of Hannover and the Hannover Fire Brigade. Immediately before INTERSCHUTZ, a blue light mile has once again been planned for downtown Hannover. There, the people of Hannover will already get in the mood on the Sunday before the fair.

Action and excitement during the trade fair will be provided by various competitions and live training courses, including, for example, the “S-Gard Safety Tour,” the “Holmatro Rescue Challenge,” and the “Firefit Championships Europe,” which will be held in Germany for the first time after the INTERSCHUTZ Community Days in the summer of 2021, will also be returning to the exhibition grounds.

All in all, visitors can look forward an extensive program of congresses, workshops, training sessions, live demonstrations and competitions in addition to the products on show in the exhibition.

Tickets for INTERSCHUTZ can already be purchased online at www.interschutz.de.

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

Batteries now included: Super Vac explores firefighter tools

by Breaking NewsProducts

Super Vac discusses firefighter tool advancements in today’s lithium-ion-driven world

Batteries not included is an old disclaimer that seems to be null-and-void in today’s lithium-ion-driven world. In fact, most handheld tools on the fireground are available in some battery-powered variation, and as the technology continues to advance, the number of battery offerings, along with tools, keeps expanding. This in turn, creates a myriad of choices for departments to wade through. Here are a few of the many considerations to consider when considering battery inclusion.

Names you can trust

When it comes to a product, there are just some names you trust. Many fire tools are now powered by name brands that can be found on a store shelf, like DeWalt, Makita or Milwaukee. Millions around the world have come to trust these brands — firefighters included. Not only are these batteries trusted for their performance, but these platforms are designed to power hundreds of tools made by the very same battery manufacturer. As it turns out, many of these tools, like rescue saws, work lights and impact hammers, have a place on the fireground.

Roughly five years ago, several specialised fire equipment manufacturers recognised this shift and began to design their battery-powered tools around these platforms. In fact, Super Vac, a leader in ventilation equipment, introduced the first battery fan to be powered by dual DeWalt FLEXVOLT batteries in 2018. Since that well-received introduction, Super Vac has added models that work with Makita XGT and Milwaukee M18 / M28 batteries, allowing these fans to be compatible with hundreds of other tools.

Expanding on this, Super Vac offers a battery chainsaw conversion kit that turns an ordinary 16” wood-cutting Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee or Echo battery saw into an overhaul or rapid intervention saw. Typically, battery-powered chainsaws are only ideal for cutting wood, but this kit equips the saw with a carbine tip chain capable of cutting through asphalt shingles, hurricane glass, roofing materials and more. The conversion is just a 2-minute transformation.

We should also mention the Super Vac battery fan can be powered by LUKAS EWXT/E3 batteries, admittedly not a battery you are going to find on just any store shelf, but we will get to proprietary batteries in a minute. First, let us finish our thoughts on universal batteries.

Super Vac is not the only manufacturer to drive this non-proprietary battery trend. Rescue system manufacturers, like AMKUS, TNT, Genesis and Weber, have also tapped into these off-the-shelf battery platforms, manufacturing a whole arsenal of cutters and spreaders that work off these battery favorites. AMKUS marries with DeWalt, while TNT, Genesis and Weber run off Milwaukee batteries.

Even emergency scene lighting manufacturers are getting in on the battery action. Just this year, Command Light (the leader in light towers) introduced a 1.25m tripod that pairs DeWalt FLEXVOLT, Makita XGT, Milwaukee M28 or LUKAS EWXT/E3 batteries with high-lumen LEDs made for the fireground, delivering 14,000-28,000 lumens depending on head selection. LUKAS also offers its own new battery-powered 14,000-lumen scene light, the Scout.

In short, departments can equip their crews with a myriad of lights, fans, saws, hand tools and rescue equipment all powered by the same batteries, making it easier to run their operations. Ask your crew what names they trust, and which tools they want to work together.

Proprietary Vs Non-Proprietary

The tools mentioned so far run on non-proprietary, easy-to-source batteries that are usually economical and can be picked up at the local hardware retailer. That said, there is still a place for proprietary batteries in the industry.

Proprietary batteries are made exclusively by a manufacturer to work only with their tools, and in special instances, with other manufacturers’ tools through licensing agreements. Usually, this equipment is very specialised and requires a more robust battery for the tools’ special operations. Several rescue tool manufacturers, like LUKAS and Holmatro, are renowned for the performance of their proprietary batteries (and tools). Since these specialised batteries are exclusive to the manufacturer, they can be harder to source – but on the flip side, departments can expect proprietary innovations with these proprietary platforms.

Mike Cannon, director of rescue sales for IDEX Fire and Safety, which includes LUKAS, says rescue tool batteries of 10 years ago could only deliver 15-20 cuts per battery charge. Now, these specialised batteries deliver as much as 9 amps, permitting 54 cuts in high-strength steels used in automobiles.

Additionally, the LUKAS battery features a Smart Dashboard display for real-time tool status and provides the industry’s first patented watertight design for underwater-operable use, allowing crews to work on automobiles in ditches, culverts and USAR applications. Holmatro’s Pentheon Series battery touts its own diagnostic software program for battery monitoring, as well as a mechatronic pump that automatically shifts the tool into a higher speed without loss of force to cut high-strength steels.

And as we mentioned, select manufacturers, like Super Vac and Command Light, have been granted special licensing agreements to utilise these proprietary batteries. Super Vac offers a 16”, 18” and 20” variable-speed fan that uses HURST EWXT/E3 batteries, while those same batteries power the new Command Light Trident Tripod with Akron Revel fixtures or a Feniex light bar.

“Having a mobile light bar alone has many departments intrigued,” Command Light President Roger Weinmeister said after the Trident Tripod was unveiled at FDIC International 2022. “With first responder fatalities on the rise because of distracted drivers, departments are looking for more ways to alert drivers to the hazards ahead, and now, they will have a battery-powered traffic advisor as a quick, deployable option to keep crews safe.”

In the end, it is important to ask yourself what kind of performance you expect out of the tool, and what kind of run times you need to get the job done. And if you feel more confident in your battery tool knowing it can run off a back-up power sources, look for built-in AC options in select equipment, like fans and lights. Finally, weigh your propriety selection against the interchangeability your department might need.

Battery-Powered Planning

Creating a battery-powered arsenal requires planning. How will you keep equipment charged? Will you incorporate charging stations into your truck or at the station? How many back-up batteries will you keep on-hand? Will you allow crews to swap batteries with other tools, if necessary? Will you spec proprietary battery-powered rescue tools with other non-proprietary tools so you’re certain no one ever runs off with the rescue tool batteries? Do you anticipate long scenes that will require shore power operation? In short, like all your equipment, make sure your battery-powered tools are always ready to go.

Aside from equipment preparation, you will find that you can plan and organise space differently around these battery-powered tools. Lighter and more compact, this equipment often frees up space in already-compact vehicles. Let us go back to that Super Vac battery PPV. At 580 mm x 585 mm x 305 mm and just 20 kgs, Super Vac’s smallest battery fan can be stored on its side, and even upright, it is practically the size of a Honda portable generator. And speaking of generators, plan on ditching the expensive generator, along with power cords and hydraulic hoses that operate your old equipment – with all that extra space, you can stage your universal battery-powered tools in one truck compartment.

Your operations may even change. First-due engines can now run with fans on their apparatus because these battery-powered PPVs are smaller than old gas fans typically relegated to the second response unit. Additionally, engines are not usually equipped with light towers because of space limitations, but now, with compact, battery-powered tripods, there is no reason not to get light where it is needed most.

Still Not Sold On Battery Technology?

If you are still mulling over the switch from gas, electric or hydraulic power sources to battery, consider what there is to gain and lose.

Crews gain more time when deploying this battery-powered equipment, and during the Golden Hour when the first 60 minutes of an incident are the most critical to patient survival you will welcome the maneuverability and ease of starting any of these battery tools. Plus, there are no more constraints of power cords or hydraulic hose lengths during those vital moments. In short, departments gain vital time and extended reach with battery operations.

Now, what do you lose? The messy maintenance that comes with petrol and hydraulic tools, plus products of combustion that can adversely affect air quality, even when catalytic converters are used. Even after use, storing this equipment can contaminate apparatus compartments with their fumes and bad carcinogens. Also, with battery tools, crews can say goodbye noise pollution which can adversely affect fireground communication. Meanwhile, the decibel reading for Super Vac’s 18” variable-speed battery fan produces an 85 dB reading at 1 meter in front of the fan, and 75 dB from 3 meters, which is only slightly louder than the sound of a showerhead makes. With quieter equipment comes improved communication. With so much to gain, it’s no wonder batteries have become the inclusion on the fireground.

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

Exclusive Interview: Jason Traynor, General Manager, MSA Safety talks delivering durability

by Breaking NewsProducts

Jason Traynor, General Manager at MSA Safety, speaks exclusively with IFSJ about the company’s move into the fire protective clothing market and its plan for Interschutz

In 2017, MSA acquired Globe Manufacturing, marking its entrance into fire protective clothing for the North American market. Speaking to MSA Safety General Manager Jason Traynor, he says they learned a lot through that first acquisition and began developing a deeper understanding of how the company could influence the overall system of products worn by firefighters.

In the years that followed the Globe acquisition, MSA recognised the benefits of having a head-to-toe system for fire-fighting attire and set about creating a cohesive collection of products that, when combined, would work together to make the end-user experience as comfortable as possible without sacrificing the necessary safety features. To make this a reality, MSA acquired UK manufacturer Bristol Uniforms.

“We were very excited and anxious to enter the European norm fire protective gear market,” tells Traynor. “We wanted to get into the EMEA market, but we knew that for us to build it ourselves and start from scratch would be a really long path.”

Prior to the Bristol Uniforms acquisition, MSA was working the UK on building new breathing apparatus – the MSAM1 – and was getting input from the local market with end-users, working closely with customers in different areas of the region to gain insights into their specific wants and needs. Through this research, says Traynor, they learned a lot about the fire service in the UK and saw an opportunity to acquire the UK manufacturer and immediately gain a strong foothold in the fire protective gear market in a new region. In January 2021, MSA acquired Bristol Uniforms.

“We were really excited about the brand and the people that came through with the acquisition that are working to design garments, manufacture, and service the product,” Traynor enthuses. “There’s a lot of passion around fire protection clothing around MSA Bristol and we’re excited to be along that journey with them.”

Looking at competitors in the market, MSA realised there were very few multi-national competitors taking an all-in-one approach. The MSA team already has a well-established, high-performing sales team and channel partner network throughout Europe, the Middle East and the Asia Pacific – teams that have been selling breathing apparatus and fire helmets for many years.

“We were really excited to introduce our teams to Bristol Uniforms fire protective clothing,” says Traynor. “To have them better understand the complexities of fire protective clothing, to be able to go to their customers and clients with longstanding relationships with and let them know that they can come to MSA for this important product that’s part of our portfolio as well.”

The X4

As with any company with a global reach, there is never a one-size-fits-all approach. Traynor says MSA recognised the need to understand the differences between the UK and central Europe, and the differences seen in different parts of the world. To do this, it carried out a ‘voice of the customer’ survey, asking the customer about their current experience, their current supplier, what they like about it, what would they change. This market research was carried out in 2021 and was used to inform and to design and build a new garment: the X4.

“We’re excited about the X4,” says Traynor. “We’ve built it with input from firefighters, we’ve gotten further input now that its complete. The market seems very excited about the approach that we’ve taken.

“We’ve looked certainly at thermal protection which is critical. Durability and wash cycles are critical, but comfort and breathability is also very important – those are the things when we look at design of a new garment. How it feels when worn and having that end user at the centre of the design is critical for us.”

MSA uses a human centred design process, starting with the individual and building outwards. With the broader MSA portfolio of products, Traynor says it now has the luxury of going to an end user and saying: “We’ll supply you with the market leading helmet, we’ll supply you with this great new innovative fire protective clothing – we have that head-to-toe experience.”

Traynor says they are really happy about where MSA is today and thinks there is a lot of benefit to engaging with a supplier that is able to cover as many different product areas as possible. Looking to the future, its goal is ensuring it designs products that together are more valuable than the sum of the individual parts.

“This way, rather than buying four different manufacturers products, the end user is able to buy a series of products which when put together will make them think ‘wow this helmet was designed with the facepiece in mind’ or ‘the straps on my breathing apparatus engage really well with the material of my jacket’ – these are now things that we can plan for and design for and control a lot more variables than we were doing previously,” he explains.

In controlling these variables, he says it allows MSA to build a more efficient system hand in hand with firefighters, understanding their needs, the limitations of what they have today, and how together they can address those needs through product design, through material science, and overall understanding what it can do to make an inherently difficult and dangerous job a little bit more comfortable.

Looking at the broader MSA portfolio globally, it’s a world leader in breathing apparatus, in fire helmets and in fire protective clothing. With that, says Traynor, comes the responsibility building great products, continuing to engage with the end-users, driving innovation, and maintain its insight into the market. Key to this is understanding the unique factors about each market, but also identifying the common thread that can be brought between the international market.

“We look at it not only from a product standpoint, but also from a geographic standpoint and understanding differences and similarities,” he tells. “Building products that are unique to regional environments, we build in a manner that is well received, well regarded, and emphasised the benefits of having a cohesive product set.”

Regional requirements

The biggest consideration in producing a product across different regions are the local industry standards. Manufacturers have to cater to each regulatory body that define what materials can be used or how can the product be designed, and much of this is regulatory and required.

On top of this, each region will have its own unique environments, for example locations with underground subway systems will have a different set of requirements to that of a city with no underground at all.

Whilst all of these things must be considered, a key thread that MSA has recognised as running through all regions is cleanability – making sure that everything is not as porous as it used to be ensure that it holds up in terms of durability. “Durability is really important,” says Traynor. “Regionally it’s going to be different because some areas wash more, some wash less. Those are the kind of things that drive variants between the products are generally customer driven and we’re happy to help work towards a solution for their unique needs.”

Interschutz Focus

With one of the fire industry’s biggest conference events set to return to Germany this year after seven years away, since the last show MSA has undergone a huge transformation and launched and extensive range of new products – meaning that for lots of people meeting with them in person at Interschutz 2022 is going to look like an entirely different organisation.

“It’s almost like we’ve gone through a digital transformation from a pneumatic system and a mechanical helmet to this whole broad system of products, but also the software and the technology that allows them to be connected, taking all data from various different inputs, aggregating it, and sending it to the cloud,” he tells.

The whole digital transformation has been a significant investment for MSA, but one that has clear solutions for the end user for problems that it made the effort to understand, covering everything from fleet management, service, where a product is, and what it has been exposed to.

“These are all things that historically were lost after the incident, but we’re now able to capture that information and use that data to make things better for the future, whether it’s through product design, or whether it’s through an understanding and history of how your products were serviced – that data is going to be something that’s completely different and unique coming from MSA, that’s something we know that end users have a real thirst for and excitement around,” he says.

The key focus MSA will be driving at Interschutz will be its ownership of Bristol Uniforms and transition into a global architect in a new market. “The acquisition was completed in early 2021, and we spent the first 6-8 months in lockdown unable to get out and see customers, so brand awareness, awareness that MSA is a key player in this market, that we’re looking to understand the need of the EU customers – those are the key things when we’re thinking about our booth at Interschutz,” Traynor explains. “The highlight is we have a new product, we’re deeply engaged in fire protective clothing in this region, we’re working with all the key suppliers.

“It’s not like we’re a start up,” he adds. “We have a good history with fire protective clothing through the Globe acquisition, we have the legacy of Bristol. We’re not starting from scratch; we’re hitting the ground running and are happy about the momentum we’ve built over the first 18 months. Interschutz is by no means an endpoint – it’s more of a jumping off point for us, for the X4, and for what we intend to continue to invest in for Europe, the Middle East and for Asia Pacific.”

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

Powering Up: Emergency One gears up for Interschutz 2022

by Breaking NewsEventsProductsVehicles

The UK’s largest manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles, Emergency One, is set to attend Interschutz in Hannover on 20-25 of June. The company’s Managing Director, Mike Madsen, says the team are will be showcasing its offer to new and old customers alike, gearing up to present not one but two new appliances at the show.

After a successful launch of the world’s first fully electric fire engine the E1 EV0 in 2020, Emergency One is set to introducing the newest E1 EV0 to the public at Interschutz. The new E1 EV0 is fully equipped with Alison eGen Power 100D electric axle, providing optimal performance without the emissions. Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, the E1 EV0 mark II operates on battery power for both drive and pump capabilities. An additional onboard smart charge allows the user to extend its driving range and pump duration if required.

The eGen Power 100D electric axle integrates two high-speed electric motors and a multi-speed transmission, eliminating the need for additional drive shafts and support structures, allowing it to fit neatly between the wheels and leaving critical space for battery storage. With continuous power of 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and peak output power of 738 horsepower (550 kilowatts), the eGen Power 100D is among the most powerful propulsion solutions in its class, with a design tuned for high gradeability and high-top speed without sacrificing efficiency.

This, says Madsen, ensures Emergency One’s fire and rescue trucks will continue to deliver on performance and reliability, fast acceleration, and manoeuvrability in an application where failure is not an option, and every second counts.

“We are proud that the Emergency One E1 EV0 (Electric Vehicle, Zero Emissions) is the World’s first all-electric pumping appliance fully certified to BS EN1846 standard,” says Madsen. “The EV0 exceeds the standard’s requirements for driving range and pumping performance at zero emissions, whilst the optional onboard smart charger provides resilience at protracted incidents.”

The latest generation of the EV0 was recently purchased by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) as it pledged to move towards more sustainable practices. The EV0 as specified for SFRS carries the same inventory as a traditional pumping appliance, is one of the first of its kind in the UK and is the first to feature an all-electric rear drive axle installation.

SFRS has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint along with many fire services globally, which proves to be beneficial as it is estimated that an electric appliance will reduce emissions by 66% compared with a diesel appliance. For comparison, a diesel engine appliance will omit around 10.79KgCO2e over a typical distance of six miles whilst an equivalent electric powered appliance will omit 3.46KgCO2e over the same journey.

Making a Splash

Emergency one’s new E1-Manticore range of appliances will also be present at Interschutz and mark the vehicle range’s first public appearance. Designed and manufactured for airport and industrial use, the ARFF appliances are available in 4×4, 6×6 and 8×8 configurations, all of which are manufactured to meet the requirements of NFPA414 and the relevant ICAO standards for the vehicle size and type. The range comes with the option for a full High Reach Extendable Turret packaging in either 16m or 20m iterations and boasts the largest cab in its class.

The Scania DC16 power-plants propelling the vehicles ensure that the vehicle type is one of the fastest in its class and are available in several Euro Emissions Standards to meet our customers’ requirements globally. The E1 Manticore is also available with the E1 EV0 technology coupling it with the Scania DC16 power-plant in a hybrid parallel drive solution, producing over 1000bhp.

The 6×6 configuration is the most popular size and is armed with a 12,500 litre water tank, 1500 litre foam tank, an 8000 litre per minute water pump which feeds a 6000 lire per minute joystick controlled roof monitor as well as a 2000 litre per minute bumper monitor. The vehicle locker and can layouts are completely configurable to meet the end user’s requirements.

International expansion

Emergency One are the largest manufacturer of fire and rescue appliances in the UK and are now expanding further into international markets. Incorporating Clan Tools and Plant Ltd (who supply Fire and Rescue operational equipment), Madsen says that Emergency One Group prides itself in creating the best possible experience for customers, with each vehicle being tailored to suit individual needs and requirements.

As well as being able to supply electric and airport firefighting appliances, Emergency One also produce an extensive range of vehicles from light, medium and super tenders; aerials and turntable ladders, command and control and a variety of special builds.

Beyond fire and rescue appliances, with innovation at the heart of the business, Emergency One also has bespoke design technology solutions such as e1Fleet, ePumpcontrol, eCabControl and eCleanCab.

e1Fleet is the manufacturer’s optional data-logging which unit allows users to connect via the Internet to all e1fleet-enabled Fire appliances, showing the current position and operational status of the fire appliance in real-time.

ePumpControl features nine or 13 freely programmable back-lit function keys, where each switch can be allocated various functions, such as a pre-set pump pressure (either High or Low Pressure), PTO engagement, valve operation (or any other system control) etc. With one touch of a switch the pump can be operating (and regulating) at any given level.

eCabControl features nine freely programmable back-lit function keys. Each switch can be allocated various functions, including all E-1 controlled systems. Graphical display of all safety related functions.

And eCleanCab is the HEPA Filtration System which can be fitted into any crew cab with hassle free installation. Removing at least 99.97% of airborne particulates, the eCleanCab is the perfect solution to providing clean air.

Going global

Since the launch of the E1 EV0 back in October 2020, Emergency One has seen an increase in export sales, ranging from North America, Malta, New Zealand and most recently France. Recent developments include providing REV Fire Group with electrical vehicle solutions as their technology partners in order to help bring American style electric fire trucks into the market. REV Fire Group which consists of E-ONE, KME, Ferrara, Spartan Fire Chassis, Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal and Ladder Tower presented the first North American-style fully electric fire truck during the Fire Department Instructors Conference in Indianapolis in April 2022. Madsen says this first vehicle marks the start of what will hopefully be a long term partnership, with many more builds to come.

Emergency One also recently secured an export contract for Electric Fire Appliances into Hérault Fire Service, France. Commenting on this news, Scottish Government Minister for Business Ivan McKee says: “Businesses such as Emergency One are using their expertise and ingenuity to unlock this potential. The new relationship with Hérault Fire Services has been secured against international competition and positions the company as a global leader in the sector. We congratulate Emergency One, wish it well and are delighted to support its efforts through the team at Scottish Enterprise.”

Madsen says: “Not only is the electric route safer for the environment but also the firefighters themselves and we are proud of the technology and progress to market of the E1 EV0 the world’s first fully electric fire appliance that highlights Scottish innovation.”

And on Interschutz he adds: “With the increase in natural disasters, political disagreements as a result of the Russian war against Ukraine and recovery from the corona virus pandemic, now more than ever it’s important for participants and attendees to come together and find solutions for the challenges of our time.”

Emergency One will be on stand R54 at the Interschutz trade fair in Hannover.

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

IFSJ Exclusive: Unrestrained performance from Holmatro

by Breaking NewsProducts

Rescue equipment manufacturer Holmatro gives the lo-down on its Pentheon Series of tools designed for first responders

All around the world first responders work in the most extreme conditions to save people’s lives. They are faced with different challenges every day, all requiring quick decision making and solid teamwork. Working under pressure, in a race against the clock, first responders need equipment they can fully rely on.

Rescue equipment manufacturer Holmatro has been developing innovative ways to solve the biggest challenges they face, resulting in its Pentheon Series of high-tech, battery-powered rescue tools.

Speed, control, endurance

When saving lives, time is of the essence as even a few seconds can make the difference between life and death. Holmatro put its focus on developing fast-use products which resulted in the development of a mechatronic system inside its tools.

The result is called stepless speed maximisation. It continuously optimises the motor and pump settings, resulting in a maximised oil flow over the full pressure range and providing rescuers with rapid tool speed at any load.

In the rescue business speed is nothing without control, but when working near a patient, it is important to take precaution, and so Holmatro built in speed control to its Pentheon tool range. Its two-mode control handle offers the choice, at any time during the rescue operation, to switch between the tool’s high-speed and low-speed modes. Within these two modes, the speed is still proportional to how far you turn the handle to its left or right.

It is impossible to predict the conditions rescue equipment will be needed in, but whether it is hot or cold, in the rain or snow and even under water, tools need to work, and so the Pentheon series of tools has been designed to work under all of these conditions. Both battery and tool temperatures are continuously monitored to make sure they remain useable as overheating may cause the tool to shut off. At extremely high temperatures, Pentheon tools will automatically switch to working at a lower power consumption, without loss of force, enabling rescuers can continue working even in hot weather and at high tool loads.

Peak performance

The Pentheon Series tools contain a battery with increased capacity, specially developed for high-performance tools, and due to its bigger cell volume, it heats up much slower than regular batteries, allowing more work to be completed while using its maximum power.

Its patented mechatronic system controls the motor and pump settings of Pentheon tools and is extremely energy efficient, designed in a way to extend the working time. When the tool is not operated or has reached its maximum pressure, the motor stops automatically, saving valuable battery capacity, the tool can be restarted by turning the handle again.

Visibility is key in emergency situations, and so in Holmatro’s range, there are six high-output LED lights in the carrying handle, illuminating the working area at night and neutralising shadows during the day. These are powered from the main battery, which means they automatically switch on and off together with the tool and, if desired, the lights can be switched off separately by pressing a button on the tool.

Swapping batteries is something that can cost valuable time, and so the Pentheon series allows the battery to be charged while it is still on the tool. Also, after connecting the tool to the charger the whole charging process will regulate itself. The battery on the tool always takes priority over the one on the charger if both are connected and the latter will resume charging when the battery on the tool is 100% full.

Up to three chargers can be powered from a single outlet, allowing users to charge six batteries without any management. The charging cord features a magnetic connector which enables easy connection and no disconnection is required. The on-tool charging cord allows for grabbing a tool and walk away with it. Thanks to the cord’s magnetic connector the tool releases itself.

The LED indicators on the Pentheon’s battery and charger give instant feedback on the battery’s temperature, state of charge and state of health. For more detailed battery information, Holmatro offers diagnostics software which can be used. A more extensive version of this software is available for authorised Holmatro Dealer Service Technicians. This combines in-depth tool diagnostics with integrated inspection procedures, to provide the best service for Pentheon tool owners. Holmatro also has special accessories available to connect the Pentheon tools and batteries to a laptop or pc.

Tool Design

Tool design is crucial to make them easy to use and to handle. When working near a patient, the tool should not be too bulky, as it will be difficult to reach the right space. On top of that, if the tool is too heavy, it will be harder to operate and carry. The compact integrated motor and pump share the same shaft – this saves a lot of precious space. The battery has a semi-circle shape which makes it fit around the tool like a bracelet, which also contributes to the slim design of Holmatro Pentheon tools.

With a carrying handle that goes all around the tool, you can hold the tool in any position. It also includes a suitcase grip for easy and well-balanced carrying. The handle is made of a damage-proof high-grade synthetic polymer. This extremely tough and elastic material has the unique property of always returning to its original shape. Centrally positioned on the back of the tool, the control handle is always within reach. This allows for easy tool operation at all sides of the car and in any position. All these things make the tools way easier to handle.

“The new Holmatro Pentheon Series rescue equipment offers you the unrestrained performance, unparalleled speed and ultimate control, and with battery management made easy, you are always rescue ready,” says Mattijn de Graaf, Research and Development Manager for Holmatro Group,

The Pentheon Series

The Pentheon Series consists of cutters, spreaders, rams and combi tools, with four versions of each tools.

Cutters

The blades of the Pentheon cutters are mounted at a 30 degree angle, creating an ergonomic design and allowing users to operate the tool from a comfortable waist height, resulting in more space between the tool and the car, meaning easier and safer cutting.

Because modern cars are becoming increasingly difficult to cut, the Pentheon Cutters are equipped with new car technology: the U-shaped blades pull even the strongest car materials into the cutting recess, close to the central bolt, where they are cut at the highest possible force.

Spreaders

The Pentheon Spreaders feature pointed teeth which bite into the material at both sides. Teeth on the outside alternately point in the opposite direction to prevent the spreader from slipping away and allowing for a superior grip over the full spreading range.

Telescopic Rams

The Telescopic Rams from the Pentheon Series come with a smart ram extension, meaning users will only need one compact ram for all applications, including cross ramming. The integrated laser pointer marks the exact spot the ram will touch the car construction, positioning the tool first time right.

This prevents users from needing to retract the ram, so the car construction could spring back and re-entrap their patient. The double carrying handle makes it easy to place the tool on both sides of the car, and the cross ram support set can help prevent the ram from pushing through car interior surfaces.

Combi tools

Next to the unique grip teeth that are also on the spreaders, the combi tools come with removable tips, making it easier to switch from spreading to cutting, without crushing the material the user cuts.

Holmatro at IINTERSCHUTZ

The Pentheon Series of tools will feature on Holmatro’s inside booth (Hall 26, Stand J27) at Interschutz, where visitors will be able to see them in action during the Holmatro Rescue Challenge (Stand L64, near Pavilion 35) at the show where they will prove their power on the latest models of BMW.

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

EPA Issues first test order for Commercial Fire Fighting Foam

by Breaking NewsProductsPumps

As a part of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap, the agency has issued the first in a series of Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) test orders to require companies to conduct and submit testing on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). 

EPA selected 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide betaine (CASRN 34455-29-3) as the first order issued under the National PFAS Testing Strategy. The foam has been manufactured (defined to include importing) in significant quantities (more than 25,000 pounds in a given year) according to TSCA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) rule reports.

This chemical substance is a surface-active agent used to make commercial fire-fighting foams and may be found in certain floor finishes. CDR data also indicate that at least 500 workers in a given year could be potentially exposed to this chemical. Although there is some hazard and exposure information about this PFAS, EPA said it found insufficient data to determine the effects on human health associated with the inhalation route of exposure. This test order will address this data need.

The Chemours Company, DuPont De Nemours Inc., National Foam Inc., and Johnson Controls Inc. are the recipients of this first test order. The companies subject to the test order have been instructed to conduct the tests as described in the order, including testing of physical-chemical properties and health effects following inhalation, or provide EPA with existing information that they believe EPA did not identify in its search for existing information. EPA said it encourages companies to jointly conduct testing to avoid unnecessary duplication of tests. 

Based on available information and predictive models, testing on 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide betaine will also inform the agency’s understanding of the human health effects of 503 additional PFAS with similar structures as detailed in the Testing Strategy.

“For far too long, families across America, especially those in underserved communities, have suffered from PFAS. High-quality, robust data on PFAS helps EPA to better understand and ultimately reduce the potential risks caused by these chemicals,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. 

“Our communities deserve transparency from the companies that use or produce these substances about their potential environmental and human health impacts.”

Quelfire talks the importance of early engagement in firestopping products

by Breaking NewsPassive

Craig Wells, Sales Director, Quelfire highlights the importance of early engagement in firestopping products and what’s required from a client’s perspective

As a manufacturer and supplier of specialist firestopping products for gaps and penetrations in buildings, Quelfire has made it their mission to use their knowledge to promote the importance of early engagement in firestopping. This being the practice that firestopping should be considered at the earliest stages of construction and firestopping contractors, as well as the firestopping manufacturers, should be involved.

Early engagement in firestopping is imperative because ultimately, it saves lives and protects property. By designing and installing firestopping solutions correctly, this allows it to do its job when exposed to fire.

To ensure buildings are safe and comply with relevant regulations, firestopping needs to be designed according to manufacturers’ tested details. If firestopping is not considered when decisions are made about the location of compartmentation walls and main routes of M&E services, there is no guarantee that the manufacturer will have a tested solution. If these discrepancies come to light too late in the project, participants can face serious extra costs and delays due to needing to redesign service penetrations. By involving the specialist firestopping contractor and the manufacturer in the early stages, these can be avoided.

Moreover, considering firestopping at the early stages will support work further down the line when the project enters the installation stage. It will give all parties involved extra time to utilize the support offered by the manufacturer, such as on-site training about the correct installation of products as per the design and manufacturer’s guidance.

Passive fire protection is a complex matter, needing coordination between several trades and for all factors to be considered. However, having a clear, structured plan will safeguard reputations and give a competitive edge, eliminating any concerns about non-compliance amidst the increased scrutiny in the construction industry. 

Who Else Needs to be Engaged?

The virtual panel discussion titled: “Firestopping service penetrations – the importance and benefits of early engagement” of the London Build (2020) highlighted that firestopping service penetrations should not only be about the firestop products, but about the services themselves and the substrate construction. It’s important to engage with all trades and system manufacturers involved, such as manufacturers of gas pipes or sprinkler pipes, as well as contractors installing these systems. For example, the insulation that is added to the pipes will need to be determined that there is a tested firestopping solution compatible with it before building can start. Therefore, every participant must communicate with each other before anything gets designed or built to avoid running into any problems later.

Quelfire’s support

Committed to protecting people and property, Quelfire are advocates of early engagement in firestopping and are keen to educate the construction industry about the importance of fire safety. By working together with every participant involved in a construction project, from design to installation, Quelfire offer value-added services and support material to facilitate all parties in achieving compliance.

An early engagement consultation can be hosted via Teams or Zoom, with face-to-face meetings being an option if required. This consultation will identify the requirements of the project through the Quelfire information collection form (ICF) with additional drawings for more complex scenarios. This is an internal process, designed by Quelfire, that helps collect all necessary information to provide a correct tested detail. For example, the composition and size of services running through a compartment wall, or whether a letterbox is being formed. A follow up with a package of suitable standard details will then be issued accordingly. These consultations will involve and primarily work to educate all members of the project team.

As Quelfire specialise in firestopping, they have a dedicated technical team who are readily available to help with any questions and challenges that come up during the later stages of the project. To support design and specification, on the website there is no-strings-attached technical documentation such as: NBS specifications, BIM models, tested detail drawings and product datasheets.

Other than technical advice, Quelfire offer high-level, CPD certified, training on Effective Passive Fire Protection. This is beneficial for anyone involved in the design or management of installation of firestopping solutions. The CPD training is available as an open webinar for individual registration and as a dedicated session for organisations such as: architect practices, main contractors, and other organisations.

One important detail that gives Quelfire a competitive advantage is their wider range of tested details. By using real-life scenarios and regular customer feedback, they carry out fire tests monthly, with a significant proportion of their annual investment going into R&D. 

The requirements

Quelfire appreciate how difficult it is to change current practices within construction. However, they firmly believe that it is a necessary change to help reduce the risk of further incidents and overall, help improve the perception of the construction industry. In most cases, a cultural change is required to appreciate that decisions made about fire stopping are life safety decisions.

Being dedicated to ‘doing it right the first time around’ and paying attention to detail will not only improve fire safety but work to serve all parties. By taking these measures at the design stage, all parties can relish in the fact that they are saving lives and protecting property, whilst knowing that they are preserving their reputation.

Further to this, it is essential for cross-party communication and coordination. Referring to the ‘Firestopping of service penetrations: best practice in design and installation’ and ASFP’s development, there are 37 questions that need to be considered when designing and installing firestopping solutions. Not a single party involved will know the answer to all questions, so it is vital that every party participates and shares their expertise. This further links to competency and the idea of knowing what you do not know and being prepared to seek professional advice from firestopping contractors and manufacturers.

By providing these value-added services, Quelfire can educate all parties involved to decrease the risk of any catastrophes, like Grenfell, happening in the future. Through using every platform to get the word out, they hope to be the catalyst of a cultural change that encourages buildings being designed around available tested solutions. As FIREX approaches, there has never been more of an urgent time than now to have these important conversations about early engagement in firestopping.

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

Exclusive: Avoiding catastrophe with vehicle fire suppression

by Breaking NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Johan Balstad, vice president, Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection, considers the new risks arising from the increased uptake of EVs

In an increasingly environmentally conscious world, the number of electric vehicles (EVs) is growing, meaning it’s time for recognition and understanding of how to mitigate the unique fire risks they pose.

A sustainable future

The number of EVs in use has been rapidly increasing, at 40% year and year, reflecting sustainability by encouraging better air quality, in addition to offering lower fuel costs by reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. This growth is only set to increase further, with improved battery technology and affordability supporting the shift for individuals, and EVs providing certain industries with cost effective, environmental solutions.

Moving forward, battery manufacturers are looking to improve the battery efficiency to cost ratio, in the hope of increasing adoption across the world. It’s predicted that battery technology is likely to increase the amount of energy density within the battery, as well as bringing about faster charging, to improve the consumer experience.

Rising risks

However, although EVs with higher energy density and reduced charging time are desirable, this can increase already rising the fire risks that EVs present.

Although much safer for the environment, EVs present their own unique fire risks that need to be understood in order to be effectively mitigated. Fires in these vehicles are less likely to occur than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, however, due to the chemistry of the battery and the type of fire that can occur, they present more intense fire risks, which can be catastrophic for passengers and operations.

There have been various reports of EV fires causing safety concerns to life and operations. For example, a crash turned fire, which killed three passengers in China and the destruction of 25 EV buses in a bus depot in Germany.

More recently, an EV bus caught fire in Paris, with the cause of the fire unknown and the reasoning for the successful evacuation attributed to passers-by, rather than a fire detection system.

Battery chemistry

The most common battery powering the shift to EVs is the lithium-ion (li-ion) battery, and it’s the chemistry within these batteries that’s causing rising fire risks.

Within the li-ion battery, there is a cathode covered in a sliver of aluminium and mixed-metal oxide ink and an anode covered in copper coated in graphite. Between these poles is a plastic separator in solvent, and during charge or discharge, lithium ions will move from or to the anode or cathode.

Should li-ion batteries experience increased heat, mechanical failure, overcharging or physical damage, this can cause the battery to short circuit. A short circuit will create excess heat, leading to a dangerous state called thermal runaway due to a reaction between the cathode and the flammable electrolyte within the battery.

Reducing fire risks

With EVs being picked up in almost every industry in the near future, there’s a necessity to understand the risks and how industries can protect against them.

  1. Equipment

Installing a fire detection and suppression system that is able to recognise that the battery is at risk of thermal runaway in its earliest stage can help to reduce the likelihood of extreme consequences to life and operations.

  • Battery management

Battery management systems are great for monitoring temperature, voltage and current in a li-ion battery. However, they can’t prevent thermal runaway should it occur suddenly, such as from a damaged battery due to a crash, for example.

  • Educating users

To prevent the catastrophic consequences of a li-ion battery fire, it’s important to educate all of those using an EV on its potential risks. By educating people on the ‘dos and don’ts’ of EV battery safety, fires are less likely to occur due to overcharging, poor management or insufficient suppression measures.

Detection and suppression

If thermal runaway is allowed to fully take hold, reignition is extremely common, and EV fires can burn for days, reigniting after the fire seems to have been defeated. Currently, the only way to make sure a fire is out completely, is total immersion within a pool of water.

This makes early detection and suppression key to reducing fire risk. Extensive research and testing from an EU-funded initiative, in collaboration with Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE) and Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection, found that a battery suppression solution can be installed during the manufacturing process to provide an early fire warning system, in addition to spot cooling to prevent a battery reaching thermal runaway.

During this research, spot cooling was found to be the most effective technique to suppress thermal runaway following the detection of defects. Spot cooling should use a suitable suppression agent. Although fluorine foams have been used for years in fire-fighting due to their suitability, modern environmental concerns have led to bans on suppression agents containing fluorine, which are spreading across the globe.

Moving forward with EV safety

With the increase of EVs happening across almost every industry around the world, it’s important to fully understand fire risks. In addition to managing batteries and educating those about battery safety, installing appropriate fire suppression solutions is key to reduce risks and ensure a safe and sustainable future.

For more information, visit Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection.

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

The future of fire detection: greener and smarter

by Breaking NewsPassive

Over three days, from the 17th to the 19th May, FIREX International brought together the entire fire safety supply chain for a unique opportunity to explore innovative products and solutions available for the first time since the pandemic.

Greener life safety products and protecting the UK’s commitment to low carbon energy

For building owners looking to improve their energy consumption or installers looking to offer more environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions, the Hochiki team will be providing live demonstrations of their power saving and environmentally friendly products they manufacture. Visitors to the Hochiki stand will also get a chance to hear about a recent customer life safety project at one of the UK’s largest offshore windfarms.

FIREscape+ combined fire detection and emergency lighting system, features LED downlighters consuming only 0.1W once fully charged. This low energy consumption directly correlates with lower CO2 emissions, providing building owners with a greener solution.

The system helps improve energy efficiency, as unlike traditional emergency lighting systems, each luminaire and exit sign is only ‘trickle charged’ until the integral batteries are at full capacity.  But the system also helps building owners to reduce costs in other ways.  Because both fire and lighting devices run on low voltage cables from the control panel, a qualified electrician is not required to wire each device, thus drastically reducing labour costs during install and during any ongoing maintenance visits.

Visitors also learned how Hochiki are helping to protect and keep operational one of the UK’s largest offshore windfarms at Margate, critical as thoughts turn to how the UK can start to produce more of its own energy and rely less on foreign sources. For a country once solely reliant on coal to power its homes and businesses, the UK is now the leader in offshore wind energy. Encouragingly, today 44% of the UK’s electricity comes from renewable sources – a figure expected to accelerate given the Government’s April 2022 announcement, committing to “supercharge” clean energy deployment, which would see 95% of Great Britain’s electricity set to be low carbon by 2030.

Operated by London Array and generating about £1million worth of electricity a day when all 175 turbines are in operation, Margate wind farm produces enough electricity to power half a million UK homes a year and reduces harmful CO2 emissions by around 925,000 tons per year.

Hochiki were thrilled to be appointed as the manufacturer of the life safety devices on board the offshore and onshore substations.

Dan Smith, Technical Services Manager for KM Security Solutions explains: “The constant change in weather combined with sea-salt spray makes offshore wind farms an incredibly hostile environment to work in, not only for people but also for the systems, cabling and devices that help to run it and keep it safe. Therefore, it is imperative we install life safety devices that won’t let the teams and premises down in an emergency. We have been using Hochiki products for well over a decade now. Not only do we trust them to work, but we also trust the devices to last.”

Visitors to FIREX will be able to find out more about this exciting and complex project when they visit the Hochiki stand.

Sophisticated design combined with powerful customer insight

Consumer insight can provide a business with the opportunity to better personalise and tailor products to the needs, wants, and demands of their customers. Organisations that leverage their customer behaviour to generate insights outperform their peers by 85% in sales growth, according to Microsoft.

Over the last two years the teams at Hochiki Europe have focused a lot of time and attention into customer insight which in turn has driven product development. The team are excited to be able to demo the new and improved L@titude system. With huge investments made in the research and development of this product, led by customer feedback, this latest model combines the very latest in hardware and software and is the company’s market leading control and indication system.

Sophisticated enough to operate anywhere in the world, in multiple languages, across all manner of applications – from schools and hospitals, city skyscrapers filled with thousands of office workers, apartment blocks and entertainment venues, cultural and commercial spaces as well as international travel ports, manufacturing warehouses and logistics hubs. The system has been designed to be simple to configure and easy to use, utilising touchscreen technology with a graphical user interface to help display vital information in a user-friendly manner. The L@titude system is EN approved and recently DBI certified for the Danish market following its EN54 Part 13 BRE approval.

Hochiki Customer, Jardine Motor Group, commented: “We were absolutely blown away with the professionalism and levels of support shown by Hochiki Europe; both of which were demonstrated from our tour of the manufacturing facility and their ongoing liaison. Having the chance to see the production and design process gave us reassurance in their ability to provide state-of-the-art life safety systems which would meet our needs as a business. This end-to-end support was a truly personalised experience, with Hochiki Europe even taking onboard our suggestions for improvements. Taking such an interest in our needs confirmed our decision in choosing them as our manufacturer and ultimately our trust in their products”.

Demonstrations of the system will be available on the Hochiki stand.

A new generation of Hybrid Wireless Fire Detection is the Waking Watch alternative.

Following the Grenfell Tower disaster, Waking Watch schemes have been used to monitor buildings identified as fire risks, until dangerous cladding is removed. However, these schemes come at a high operational cost, and sadly, human error. Building owners and local authorities are looking to life safety manufacturers, installers, and innovative technology to help with a more cost-effective and more importantly more reliable alternative to these schemes.

One such piece of technology is Hochiki’s next generation of hybrid wireless fire detection product, Ekho. At the core of the system is the wireless Translator module, hard-wired to the existing fire alarm control panel loop which communicates continuously with the wireless devices. Wireless Expander modules are then used to extend the self-healing radio mesh network, increasing the reach and capacity of the overall system. The Expander mesh network guarantees an “always on” connection between the wireless devices and the Translator/fire control panel.

The system can be installed as a temporary solution to continuously monitor individual apartments within a building, as it is easily removed without damage to the structure.  Alternatively, can be installed as a permanent extension of the house fire system. Customers are saying that this hybrid life safety technology helps residents feel safer and building owners reassured, due to the self-configuring mesh network which keeps the devices connected and communicating with the fire panel 24/7.

Commenting on a recent install in a London Borough one Hochiki customer said: “This was an incredibly complex and highly involved project across six buildings each with 16 floors. We worked closely with the team at Hochiki who recommended the Ekho range as it offered a hybrid wireless solution which allowed us to work around issues such as cabling inside private spaces. Ekho being wireless still allowed for early detection but most importantly, detection at windows to monitor for any incident outside of the building, within the problem cladding, for example.

Using the Hochiki technology gave the residents peace of mind that the new system was ‘always on.’  The Ekho range is ultra-dependable, and much more cost effective than the existing Waking Watch scheme.”

Hochiki’s Sales Director, Nathan Hudson said, “I am immensely proud of our teams and how they have continued to develop and bring to market leading products as well as serve our customers especially over the last two years. There is a reason we are the trusted as the leader in fire detection, it is our people and their passion to ensure our customers get the best.”

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