Breaking News – Page 29 – International Fire & Safety Journal

A clean suite: Rescue Intellitech targets hidden toxins in firefighter PPE

26 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News PPE

Rescue Intellitech describes the role of integrated washers, dryers and filtration units in reducing harmful residues on PPE and supporting safe, efficient routines within busy fire stations

Every time firefighters return from a call-out, they may be carrying more than their PPE and equipment.

Harmful toxins, carcinogens, and pathogens can remain on kit for hours after an incident, posing significant health risks.

It is vital that PPE is cleaned swiftly and effectively, and that protocols are followed to minimise exposure.

Many fire stations now have dedicated decontamination rooms, where worn PPE can be contained and cleaned.

Trusted by fire services across the world, Rescue Intellitech’s comprehensive suite of specialist washers and dryers has been developed specifically for these environments, offering a complete station-based solution for cleaning PPE efficiently and safely, ready for the next call-out.

Solo Rescue and DeconWashers

Cleaning firefighting PPE with a Solo Rescue machine is quick and easy.

After an incident, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), face masks, boots, gloves and helmets, can be thoroughly decontaminated within minutes.

At the heart of the Solo Rescue is an innovative rotating basket system.

As the basket turns, water flows to hard-to-reach areas where contaminants can accumulate, such as the intricate surfaces of SCBA breathing valves and regulators, as well as the fabric seams and crevices in the harness and backplate.

A selection of equipment holders allows different PPE combinations to be washed together.

Each wash cycle can swiftly clean two complete sets of SCBA, six stand-alone air cylinders, eight face masks, three helmets, three pairs of boots, eight pairs of gloves, or a combination of the above.

The control panel offers a simple choice between a rapid three-minute cycle for gloves and boots or an eight-minute cycle for SCBA, face masks, and helmets.

For smaller fire stations, the streamlined DeconWasher Pro S version delivers the same wash performance but is more compact in size.

The smart design uses rotating wash arms and high water flow to thoroughly clean and rinse dirty kit, removing harmful soot particles and residue.

Both washers can be fitted with the optional DeconFilter Pro S attachment, a multi-stage filtration unit with a lint filter, particle filters and an active carbon filter.

This prevents harmful substances from entering the wastewater system, supporting environmental compliance.

DE Series Washing Machines

Recently launched, Rescue Intellitech’s DE Series washing machines have been specifically designed to decontaminate firefighter clothing and specialist garments.

Offering a choice of 15 pre-programmed wash cycles suitable for everything from heavy-duty textiles to delicate technical fabrics, these gentle but effective machines help to preserve the integrity of valuable PPE, extending its lifespan and maintaining its protective capabilities.

Three sizes are available: DE180 (180l), DE240 (240l) and DE280 (280l), enabling fire services to scale to their operational needs.

Energy and water efficient, they ensure the washing process is both cost-effective and environmentally-friendly.

Low noise output helps to minimise disruption during busy station routines, and a clinch-mounted frame provides durability for continuous use, so that even in heavy-duty fire service environments, the washing performance is reliable.

Drying Cabinets

Following washing, PPE should be dried correctly and carefully to avoid moisture-related deterioration or damage.

Rescue Intellitech’s fast and efficient drying cabinets offer rapid but gentle drying without mechanical action, which helps protect the integrity of specialist materials, seams and reflective trims.

Both the interior and exterior of the PPE is dried at the same time, so kit is quickly ready for use.

Fire and rescue services can choose between two different sizes, the larger DC20 and the smaller DC8, to suit their requirements and space.

The dryers can be specifically configured to accommodate bulky kit and equipment, with specialised hanging rails designed to support firefighting jackets and clothing, boots, gloves, helmets and SCBA.

To ensure kit is ready to handle immediately after drying, programmes end with a ‘cool down’ phase.

A complete decontamination system

Reliable decontamination of firefighter PPE has become essential to safeguarding long-term health.

Rescue Intellitech’s suite of washers and dryers delivers safe and effective cleaning, with rapid turn-around times that help kit return to service quickly.

At the same time, the gentle, purpose-built technology preserves the performance and lifespan of valuable textiles and equipment.

Together, this equipment offers a scalable, all-encompassing, station-friendly solution that prioritises health, efficiency and cost-effective care of critical PPE.

Quickfire Q&A with Robert Malmsten, Sales Director EMEA and APAC

How is Rescue Intellitech helping reduce firefighter exposure to contaminants?

Research has highlighted how toxic residues on PPE contribute to long-term health risks and Rescue Intellitech supports services by providing Solo Rescue and DeconWasher Pro S systems that clean helmets, SCBA, boots and gloves alongside new clothing washers and drying cabinets that together form a complete station-based decontamination suite.

What is the value of on-site PPE care?

On-site washing and drying allows smaller services and training facilities to clean full PPE sets quickly while larger services can use the equipment to bridge gaps in managed service schedules, ensure crews have correctly sized clean kit and reduce reliance on multiple personal issue sets, with machines such as Solo Rescue also replacing manual helmet and SCBA washing.

How does the equipment protect PPE lifespan?

The systems deliver thorough yet gentle cleaning through controlled water flow and tailored wash cycles that suit different technical fabrics with dryers designed to remove moisture from inside and out without mechanical action to help maintain protective performance over time.

How has user feedback shaped development?

Input from fire services has driven features such as the narrower DeconWasher Pro S, specialised baskets for small components and the Decon as a Service subscription model.

What comes next for PPE management?

Services are adopting zoned station layouts and more frequent cleaning and Rescue Intellitech aims to support this shift with further development of station-based decontamination solutions.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Advancing early-stage fire safety design: Why Global HSE Group created a Level 4 pathway

23 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News Building Management Construction Passive

Global HSE Group outlines how its Level 4 Fire Safety Design qualification addresses gaps between regulatory guidance, drawings and what is built on site

Fire safety is most effective when embedded at the earliest stages of a project, yet it is often introduced late in the design process, leading to costly rework and compromised performance. Global HSE Group set out to address this through the creation of the Level 4 Fire Safety Design qualification, the first of its kind to embed regulatory and technical understanding at the design stage. Developed to meet UK regulations, it is now being adapted to align with the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice and other Middle Eastern standards.

In this discussion, Managing Director Andrew Cooper, Head of Technical and Training Chris Sharman, former West Yorkshire Fire Service Group Manager Nigel Craven, and Fire Safety Consultant Keith Plowman explain how the qualification was shaped, the gap is addresses, and how Global HSE’s dual role as both educator and practitioner informs its aim to raise competence through structured training and growing digital access across the region.

Was there a gap in the industry that prompted Global HSE to create the Level 4 Fire Safety Design qualification?

Chris: There were two main drivers. The first was a direct request from one of our tier one contractor clients, who wanted training for their design teams, especially the people doing design work on site. While we were developing that, we realised there was a wider structural gap in the qualification landscape.

A number of us at Global HSE had previously completed a Level 4 Diploma in fire safety management. To reach Level 4 you often have to divert into a different discipline and then come back, rather than progressing in a clear technical line. As we were building something for our client, we saw that gap and decided to create a qualification that would sit between the Level 3 technical awards and the Level 5 fire engineering route.

Andrew: Alongside that, we had eight years of experience working with tier one contractors, project teams, architects and designers where we kept encountering the same issues in fire safety design. There was a lack of formal competence in understanding regulatory requirements, fields of application, interpreting manufacturers data and test evidence, and understanding how components should work together as tested systems rather than ad hoc assemblies.

In the UK, Regulation 7 of the Building Regulations, which covers materials and workmanship, came up repeatedly. In around 90 per cent of finished buildings we reviewed under defective premises claims, the core weakness was either poor workmanship or inappropriate product selection. It was clear the people doing the work did not fully understand Regulation 7.

The Level 4 course is intended to close that gap. It focuses on selecting appropriate materials, understand supporting design information, and delivering workmanship that meets the functional requirements at completion.

We had also been offering a “fire scrutineer” service since around 2016, which is essentially a modern version of the old clerk of works. We were brought in to look at buildings during construction and found that many were not being built incorrectly in a legal sense, but they were being built poorly from a fire safety perspective.

How does early design integration prevent retrofits or compromises later during project delivery?

Andrew: A key aim is give people a roadmap. That means knowing where to find the right information, understanding system design and ensuring that products are selected and installed as tested systems, rather than individual components.

We developed the course from our experience of tier one projects where designers and contractors were pulling in components from multiple manufacturers without fully understanding how they behaved in combination.

Keith: The gap usually appears between what is drawn and what is built. On a computer, buildings are perfect and it never rains. On site it is a completely different environment. Products are swapped, details are adjusted, and value engineering does not always take full account of the fire strategy.

Early integration is about ensuring that everyone involved has the right skills and training so that decisions they make along the way do not undermine the original design philosophy. That is really what early integration is about.

What are the main learning outcomes or skills that professionals gain from this qualification?

Nigel: The qualification is split into two units. The first is the knowledge component covering fire science, active and passive fire protection, and fire safety management. It also addresses routine testing responsibilities for people managing buildings. Finally, it considers fire risk in the built environment and touches on the fire risk assessment process.

The second unit is entirely practical. Learners must demonstrate that they can apply what they have learned. They complete two tabletop exercises using large plan drawings and produce a coherent fire safety design for a given scenario.

We talk them through the design guidance module by module. In the exercise they then have to prove they can interpret that guidance and apply that guidance correctly.

By the end, they are able to take a floor plan and decide where 30, 60 or 120 minute compartmentation is needed, where emergency lighting should go, which doors are fire doors and how to factor in doors when calculating occupancy. It is about moving from knowing the words in the guidance to being able to use it properly on a real layout.

How did UK regulations shape the course, and what changed for UAE code alignment?

Chris: The course is structured around UK regulatory guidance, but it translates well to the Gulf. Many Gulf states already blend British standards with NFPA material, and British influence remains strong.

Much of the testing still references BS and BS EN standards, which makes adaptation for the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code relatively straightforward.

Are there clear differences in how fire safety design is approached in the UK compared with the Middle East?

Chris: Where Approved Document B provides scope, Gulf regulations tend to specify exactly what must be done. This reflects experience with high-rise fires and results in particularly stringent requirements for tall buildings.

Andrew: The real weakness in both regions is not the codes themselves but the lack of knowledge at site level and at the final design stage. People making key decisions do not always understand the implications of material selection and system assembly. That is what we are trying to address with this qualification.

How does Global HSE’s education and site experience shape how the programme is delivered?

Andrew: We deliberately worked with awarding bodies and followed formal qualification requirements rather than delivering a simple CPD course. The aim was to create a recognised progression route, not just a certificate of attendance.

We wanted a qualification that sits properly in the UK framework and that gives learners a meaningful progression route, not just a certificate of attendance.

Keith: We are not just trainers. We are also installers, maintainers and consultants. If we have a topic that is heavily fire engineering focused, we can go to our fire engineers and ask, “How does this work in practice?”

That practical insight feeds directly into the training and keeps it grounded in current practice, not just theory.

What feedback have organisations or learners shared after completing or trialling the qualification?

Andrew: We already have several hundred learners lined up in the UK for the Level 4 qualification, and we are in discussions with the Construction Leadership Council and hope to evolve these and establish further recognition and wider rollout throughout 2026.

Nigel: Our internal trial group found it demanding but appropriate for Level 4. One learner with a degree in civil engineering said it stretched his understanding which is exactly what we want at Level 4.

Will other programmes be digitised for the region, and how will this affect access and consistency?

Andrew: We are digitising the Level 4 course and others, but formal assessment requirements mean this must be done carefully.

Keith: We do not want a passive click-through course. Classroom interaction remains important, both for learners and assessors. Digital delivery will complement, not replace, that approach.

How might qualifications like this influence wider competence standards and career pathways?

Andrew: Yes. We have aligned the qualification with the existing competence frameworks in the UK. We have mirrored the competence requirements that have been set out nationally so that this course sits as part of a recognised pathway rather than a standalone product.

The idea is that someone with Level 3 technical qualifications can move into this Level 4 and through to higher-level fire engineering and management roles

Looking ahead, what role would you like to see Global HSE playing in advancing fire safety education and regulation across the Middle East?

Andrew: We see our role as both contributor and partner. We already support clients operating across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. Expanding this qualification regionally, supported by digital delivery, is a key growth area.

More broadly, we aim to take lessons from live projects, remediation work and new legislation and turn them into practical training. Our goal is to help professionals apply requirements consistently and competently across both the UK and the Middle East.

Our aim is to take lessons from live projects and remediation work and turn them into practical training that improves real-world outcomes. This helps professionals across the UK and the Middle East apply requirements in a consistent and competent way as building complexity and regulatory expectations continue to increase.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

The future of fire service data: How FSRI rebuilt US incident reporting with NERIS

23 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Americas - Breaking News Breaking News Communications

Dr Craig Weinschenk, Lead Engineer for NERIS at the Fire Safety Research Institute, discusses rebuilding the foundation of US emergency data management from the ground up

For nearly half a century, US fire departments have relied on the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) to record and share incident data.

But a framework designed for paper forms in the 1970s has struggled to keep pace with the demands of a connected, data-driven era.

Its manual processes, static structure and years-long data lag limited the fire service’s ability to analyse trends or act on emerging risks in real time.

The new National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) aims to change that.

Developed by the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) in partnership with the US Fire Administration and the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Science and Technology, NERIS provides a cloud-based, geospatial and user-focused platform that captures and shares fire data almost instantly.

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey sat down with Dr Craig Weinschenk, Lead Engineer on NERIS at FSRI, to learn how the system was built and what it could mean for the future of fire service data.

NFIRS served the fire service for nearly 50 years – what were its limitations, and why was a new approach required?

NFIRS was conceived in 1973 after the Fire Control Act and it started as paper forms, even carbon copy forms where you had three copies.

To make field reporting doable, “structure fire” became “111” because three numbers are easier to process than handwriting.

That served the field well for a long time, but you needed a big lookup table to know the codes.

When things started to digitise in the late 80s, early 90s into the 2000s, the approach was to digitise NFIRS.

It became a digital version of paper forms instead of taking advantage of advances in database technology.

Expectations for data expanded, but the system stayed tied to that older mindset.

It was not geospatial.

You filled out a complete address but there was no latitude and longitude in the payload, even though incidents all occur somewhere.

It was also very manual.

You completed the record locally, exported a text file, sent it to the state, then to the federal government.

Everyone processed plain text files that were emailed around.

That does not scale and it creates data lag.

When your environment changes in three-to-nine-month windows but the data lags 18 to 24 months, you miss chances to make real time impact because by the time it is aggregated you are looking too far in the past.

There were practical constraints too.

The hardware was old and the software was old, and you could not upgrade one without breaking the other.

If you tried to build an NFIRS 6.0 you were rebuilding the same system and moving one step forward.

The decision was to rebuild from the ground up, take lessons learned from geospatial needs and time lag, and put the fire service first on incident collection.

That is what we did with NERIS.

How did this public-private partnership work in practice, and why was it important?

We work hand in hand with the United States Fire Administration and with DHS S&T.

We have weekly stand-ups and the rigor you expect from a national project.

We produce documentation and artifacts, and we have oversight from security scans to operational performance metrics, all documented and shared with the federal government.

That oversight ensures we have no blind spots and keeps the project healthy.

As a nonprofit building this, we can also be nimble.

We are not owning local data or hosting on federal servers inside federal firewalls, which have limitations.

We can hire a dynamic team and move quickly while following standards and best practices.

We see ourselves as stewards of a national system by and for the local fire service, building to support USFA’s mission and DHS’s mission while putting the fire service first.

Data governance is foundational.

Local departments own their data.

They collect it and send it.

The value is in aggregating at local data regionally statewide, and nationally, but the department still owns the record.

That principle is a critical piece that makes this work.

What is causation data and why does it matter for incident reporting and prevention?

In NFIRS the causation data was in the primary record.

That created a challenge.

Either the record stayed open while you waited for an independent investigator to provide answers, or people put something in just to close the record.

We decoupled the schemas.

We have a core schema that looks at general causality from a fire behaviour and safety perspective, not from criminality.

We are deliberate in our language so we can understand the incident from safety, response and frequency perspectives.

Then we have a follow-on called Incident Analysis.

The two are decoupled.

You can close the first part so we know the call happened and we can run metrics on demand, while the analysis can be completed 24 or 48 hours later when the right staff are available or when more time is needed to understand the incident.

That puts the right information in front of the right people at the right time, instead of forcing someone who may not be qualified to answer those questions.

How does the system balance the need for national-level analysis with the practical, day-to-day needs of local departments?

In addition to collection, we are building an analytics platform that runs as part of the system.

Every department gets an Insights tab with high level information about response.

Incidents appear on maps, colour coded by response duration so you can spot hotspots.

We are deploying a unit-level response dashboard to see metrics on particular units, frequency of units running together and distances travelled.

We also show things around casualties and rescues, so you can understand both loss and saves.

Data ladders up.

A state sees the same dashboards in aggregate.

They can view activity percentages, performance across the state and distributions of calls by discipline.

Because we built an API-based system instead of manual data movement, when a record shows up it is available to the local and to the state, and it is available to be pulled by the federal government into its infrastructure via secure API.

They keep a full copy and can run their analytics in real time.

We have cut lag from roughly 14 or 15 days from local to state, and 6, 12 or 18 months to federal, down to hours.

In practice we usually see records completed at the end of a shift, QA and QC over the next shift, then submission.

If you want to keep using your own tools, you can do that and still access your data via secure API.

Looking ahead, what do you see as the next steps for NERIS?

NFIRS sunsets on 31 December 2025.

Looking at 2026 there are two phases: take what we learned on onboarding and improve the system, schemas, questions and workflows.

Then focus on analytics.

Provide products that help departments do their job, identify gaps in response at hyper-local levels, and surface larger trends regionally, at state level and nationally.

The aim is to identify the next hazard and where to invest in research, because we are seeing data fast enough to act.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Safer suppression for energy storage systems with Stat-X

23 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News Fire Suppression

Jim Dickinson, Executive Vice President – Global Sales at Fireaway Inc., outlines how prevention, detection and suppression are applied in modern energy storage projects

Energy storage systems (ESS) are moving quickly from pilot projects to core infrastructure across utilities, transport and commercial sites.

That shift brings fire risks that behave differently from conventional electrical installations.

Thermal runaway can develop inside battery modules before visible smoke or flame, while enclosure design, ventilation limits and restricted access complicate intervention.

As grid-scale and behind-the-meter storage expands across the Middle East, these factors are shaping design decisions, insurer expectations and regulatory scrutiny.

Fireaway Inc. addresses these challenges through Stat-X® condensed aerosol fire suppression, supported by UltraSense^TM early detection technologies designed for enclosed and modular environments.

The approach focuses on identifying early fault indicators and deploying suppression in spaces where traditional gas or water-based systems can be difficult to engineer or maintain.

Ahead of Intersec Dubai 2026, Jim Dickinson, executive vice president – global sales at Fireaway Inc., outlines how prevention, detection and suppression are applied in modern energy storage projects.

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey sat down with Jim Dickinson to discuss safer energy storage design, technology selection and regional deployment considerations.

Why is thermal runaway regarded as a distinct fire hazard in battery installations?

Thermal runaway presents a distinct hazard because once a battery cell enters that state, the reaction is self-sustaining and difficult to interrupt with suppression alone.

In practice, most fires in ESS units begin with electrical faults – short circuits, arc faults or other electrical failures – not the cells themselves.

Approximately 90 % of ESS fires are linked to electrical components rather than intrinsic battery cell combustion.

Our strategy focuses on preventing escalation.

By detecting the earliest signs of trouble, such as changes in gases or temperature before flames develop, we give operators and suppression systems the best chance to intervene before a full thermal runaway event occurs.

Suppression after runaway is extremely challenging, so early action is critical.

What preventive measures are most effective in stopping a fault from becoming a wider fire event?

Early detection is essential which is why we utilises UltraSense industrial sensors with Stat-X our suppression systems.

UltraSense detects subtle indicators such as off-gassing and thermal changes before visible smoke or fire fire appears.

This earlier signal gives system controllers time to initiate alarms, shutdowns or suppression before conditions escalate.

Early detection matters because it extends the window for intervention ahead of thermal runaway.

Battery modules can exhibit off-gassing and abnormal electrical behaviour well before ignition, so capturing those signs helps to reduce the likelihood that a minor fault becomes a large-scale fire.

How must detection strategies change for energy storage systems where early signs are gas release or electrical shifts rather than flames?

Detection must be geared toward subtle precursors, not just flames.

Traditional fire detection relies on smoke or heat.

In ESS environments, the sequence generally begins with internal faults that generate heat and off-gassed compounds before smoke or flame is present.

UltraSense delivers continuous monitoring of gas composition and temperature changes at the cell or module level, offering an early warning long before a flame exists.

This approach improves reaction time for suppression and operational shutdown, especially in compact battery arrays where changes can occur rapidly.

How does Stat-X condensed aerosol technology work and why is it suited to modular ESS layouts?

Condensed aerosol fire suppression is a potassium -based method in which ultra-fine agent particles and propellant gases are released to interrupt combustion reactions and suppress fire.

Stat-X generators contain a stable solid compound in hermetically sealed stainless-steel canisters.

When activated – either electrically through control panel signals or thermally when a set temperature is reached – they discharge an aerosol that suppresses fire across a protected space without the need for piped infrastructure.

Key advantages for ESS include:

Low-pressure deployment: Unlike high-pressure gas systems, Stat-X works in spaces with un-closable openings and remains in the atmosphere longer to help prevent reflash.
Compact, modular units: The generators mount on walls or ceilings and require no piping, reducing installation complexity – important in containerized or cabinet-style ESS installations.
Extended agent presence: The aerosol can stay suspended for up to 20 minutes, offering ongoing suppression and reducing the risk of fire re-ignition.
Environmentally acceptable: Stat-X agents are listed under U.S.
EPA SNAP for normally occupied spaces with zero potential for ozone depletion or global warming impact.

Stat-X can be configured with electrical actuation tied to control panels and detectors, or with thermal initiators that trigger at defined temperatures.

Both approaches are widely used in ESS protection.

How is Stat-X typically integrated into modular ESS units and what constraints shape design choices?

Integration typically involves placing Stat-X aerosol generators inside or adjacent to ESS modules, connected to detection systems that can trigger discharge.

The compact size of Stat-X allows it to fit into confined cabinets, racks or containerized systems without requiring extensive piping or large gas cylinders.

In contrast, water-based systems like water mist require extensive piping, water supply planning and larger structural space.

That makes them less practical in tight ESS housings.

Using aerosol systems simplifies engineering requirements and reduces installation time, costs and potential points of failure.

Physical constraints such as space availability, access for maintenance and layout of battery racks often influence the choice of system configuration and placement.

Which standards and test methods are most relevant to ESS fire suppression and how is Fireaway engaging with them?

The cornerstone standard for energy storage system installations is NFPA 855, the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard for the installation of stationary ESS.

Fireaway designs systems to align with NFPA 855 guidance and local authority requirements.

In addition, NFPA 2010 covers fixed aerosol fire extinguishing systems, addressing their design and application.

Aerosol standards such as UL 9540A test thermal runaway propagation and are increasingly referenced in risk evaluation and system specification.

Third-party testing conducted under NFPA and UL 9540A protocols has shown that Stat-X aerosol can limit thermal runaway propagation and extinguish fires when properly designed and installed.

Local approvals also matter.

With Intersec Dubai 2026 approaching, what ESS themes will Fireaway emphasise and how do regional projects influence your focus?

At Intersec Dubai 2026, we’re emphasising prevention, early detection and suppression as a complete framework for ESS fire safety.

We highlight UltraSense for early hazard detection and Stat-X for suppression, supporting a layered approach to risk.

Interest in these technologies has risen steadily since we introduced UltraSense globally.

Combining real-time hazard detection with effective suppression makes sense for owners and designers facing diverse ESS configurations.

Regionally, the Middle East’s growth in utility-scale and distributed storage installations means solutions that are adaptable, easy to install and compatible with varied regulatory landscapes are in demand.

We work with global OEMs and distribution partners to provide support where ESS projects are being manufactured and deployed.

Our global network of more than 500 partners enables ongoing service wherever systems are installed.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Petrochemical preparedness: Perimeter Solutions on the fluorine free foam transition

22 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News Fire Suppression

James Perriss, Director of Product Management at Perimeter Solutions, evaluates fluorine free foam adoption for petrochemical teams

Petrochemical facilities operate under constant threat of fire.

Large volumes of highly flammable liquid fuels are stored in massive atmospheric tanks, exposed to extreme operating conditions such as high temperatures, heavy mechanical stress and ever-present ignition risks such as static discharge and lightning strikes.

In this environment, even a minor error or ignition source can escalate into a potentially catastrophic incident within minutes.

In fact, earlier this year, a major fire broke out at the Al Hamriyah fuel depot in Sharjah, UAE.

Thankfully, no lives were lost, but the event once again underscored the critical importance of preparedness and high-performance firefighting resources in the petrochemical sector.

Rapid containment was possible thanks to the expertise and readiness of the on-site emergency response team.

Incidents like these highlight the importance of using the right resources to quickly control and suppress liquid fuel fires in high-risk petrochemical environments.

As the oil and gas industry embraces more sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, the transition from fluorinated firefighting foams to fluorine-free formulations is accelerating.

While some firefighting veterans have expressed concerns about whether these foams are as effective as the fluorinated solutions they replace, firefighters are starting to gain firsthand experience on the continued high level of performance of leading fluorine-free foams.

This article examines the real-world adoption of fluorine-free foam in petrochemical fire protection, highlighting practical considerations for implementation, application rates, foam logistics, large-scale product testing and certifications and real-world examples of facilities successfully using these solutions.

Planning for petrochemical facility fires

The first step in preparing for a potential incident is determining the appropriate application rate based on hazard, fuel and requirements in conjunction with the available equipment and systems at a facility.

From there, facilities can determine the optimal foam formulation and design the logistics needed to ensure fast, effective deployment if a fuel spill or fire occurs.

Successfully containing and extinguishing fires at petrochemical facilities requires careful logistical planning and coordination, as well as premium products and well-trained fire emergency teams.

Engineered fixed systems are often the primary protection, integrated with emergency mobile, high-volume firefighting resources, including large flow monitor trailers, high-volume pumps and submersible pumps, tanker trucks, hose lines and foam proportioning equipment.

Access to vast amounts of water is equally important—especially for large-scale incidents involving storage tanks, fuel bunds, or process units.

That water is needed to mix with foam concentrate to apply as finished foam to control and suppress fuel spills, vapour control and extinguishment.

For example, in some scenarios, delivering more than 40,000 liters per minute (10000 GPM) of foam solution through a single high-flow mobile monitor may be necessary to cover the largest tank on site.

Modern fluorine-free foams like SOLBERG® VERSAGARD™ AS-100 and SOLBERG® RE-HEALING™ 3×3 SP-100 operate at application rates of 3%, while SOLBERG® VERSAGARD™ 1×3 AR-SFFF has proven through significant testing to work effectively as low as 1% foam to 99% water.

This means that sites must plan not only for foam performance, but also for storage, resupply and delivery of the foam concentrate and the logistics for staging these large flow mobile monitor systems.

In large incidents involving vapour suppression and fully involved tank fire, this has often required hundreds of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) and high-capacity pumping systems to be deployed

As these large fires can quickly deplete foam stocks, it is also important to consider the application rates for tank fire protection with portable, mobile and semi-fixed monitor systems, as outlined by the National Fire Protection Association in NFPA 11, which further illustrates the scale of the resources involved.

The standard recommends a minimum of 6.5 lpm/m2 for fixed roof storge tanks containing hydrocarbons for a minimum discharge time of 50 to 65 minutes (depending on hydrocarbon fuel type).

In addition, NFPA 11 clarifies that flow calculations shall include consideration for potential foam solution losses due to wind and other ambient conditions, stating a factor of 1.5 additional foam application rate used to compensate for these factors, bringing the NFPA 11 minimum design application rate to ~9.8 lpm/m2 for monitor application on fixed roof storge tanks.

Most emergency response teams handling large tank fires prefer 1×3 foam concentrates due to their efficiency and lower concentrate demand.

In large-scale incidents around the world, this has led to sites needing to stage approximately 100 IBCs of 1×3 foam.

In contrast, if a 3% foam is required, that number could triple.

While many organisations are inclined to use 3×3 foams, it’s critical to fully understand the logistical implications, particularly around storage, delivery and resupply before making a final selection.

Perimeter Solutions offers both a one percent (SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3) and three percent solutions (SOLBERG® RE-HEALING™ 3×3 SP-100 and SOLBERG® VERSAGARD™ AS-100) to support these incidents.

Fluorine-free solutions for oil & gas

Perimeter Solutions is a leading developer of fluorine-free firefighting foam solutions specifically designed for petrochemical environments.

Perimeter’s SOLBERG VERSAGARD series of fluorine-free foams also offers highly effective performance for petrochemical firefighting.

SOLBERG VERSAGARD AS-100 3×3 AR-SFFF (along with its counterpart SOLBERG VERSAGARD AS-100 Freeze Protected) and SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3 AR-SFFF Multipurpose Foam Concentrates are non-persistent, siloxane-free and contain no intentionally added PFAS.

Capable of suppressing Class B and deep-seated Class A fires, these biodegradable products have passed multiple large-scale fire testing programs and hold key certifications, including:

• LASTFIRE

• UL 162 Listed

• EN-1568:2018 – parts 1,2, 3 & 4
• International Maritime Organisation (IMO) MSC.1/Circ.132
• ICAO Level B
• GESIP

SOLBERG® RE-HEALING™ 3×3 Fluorine-Free SP-100 was the industry’s first UL-listed fluorine-free 3×3 foam concentrate with the full complement of hardware and sprinkler listings, including non-aspirated standard sprinkler heads.

Like the SOLBERG VERSAGARD line, it is a non-persistent, siloxane-free solution that contains no intentionally added per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Designed to extinguish and secure both Class B (hydrocarbon and polar solvent fuel) and deep-seated Class A fires, it is UL-listed, FM 5130 Approved and certified to ICAO Level B.

They are also GreenScreen® Certified Silver, reflecting their strong environmental profiles.

The performance of the SOLBERG fluorine-free Foam concentrates has made them a trusted solution for fire management teams around the world, including those at major oil companies in the Gulf, Asia Pacific region, Australia, Africa, Europe and the U.S.

One example is the selection of SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3 by a UK-based petrochemical facility seeking to move away from aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).

A diversified energy company, it had long intended to transition to a fluorine-free foam.

However, despite the desire to make the switch, they had not yet found a fluorine-free option that matched the performance of their existing AFFF.

That changed with the introduction of SOLBERG VERSAGARD 1×3, which met their logistics and fuel needs with a high-performance tested alcohol-resistant synthetic fluorine-free foam (AR-SFFF).

Working with distributor Hawkes Fire and Perimeter, representatives from the energy company travelled to Perimeter’s testing facility in Spain to evaluate the performance of the alcohol-resistant concentrate.

Additional testing with LASTFIRE was also conducted at the customer’s site in the UK, to verity the performance in larger-scale tests.

Satisfied with the results, the company moved forward with the transition.

Looking ahead

Perimeter Solutions continues to develop new technology, expanding the capabilities of fluorine-free firefighting foam.

While not focused on the petrochemical space, Perimeter Solutions developed the world’s first Mil-Spec fluorine-free foam – SOLBERG® 3% MIL-SPEC SFFF, and recently introduced SOLBERG® Evolution 3% SFFF, another ground-breaking Newtonian product used for aircraft rescue fire suppression through sprinkler applications.

It is the world’s first fluorine-free foam concentrate with Mil-Spec approval for hydrocarbon fuel fires using standard sprinkler heads.

UL-162 listed, BSS7432 and ICAO B certified with FM 5130 certification pending, it delivers fast knockdown and extinguishment of fuels, including gasoline, Jet A and Jet A-1.

Our solutions will continue to evolve along with fire safety needs for the petrochemical sector.

We remain committed to advancing the efficacy of fluorine-free foam technology and setting the benchmark for sustainable fire suppression.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Entering a new frontier: HT&K Anti-Fire takes aim at global fluorosurfactant shortages

22 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News Fire Suppression

Dr. Thanos Karydas, Director of HT&K’s Anti-Fire Group deep dives into the fluorosurfactants industry and the importance of the search for pioneering fluorine-free formulations

Dr. Thanos Karydas, the Director of HT&K’s newly formed Anti-Fire Group, is a 40-year veteran of the fluorosurfactants business, starting with Ciba Geigy in 1983.

He is one of the three founders of Dynax in 1991 and invented more than 30 patents in the fluorocarbon field.

In this interview with International Fire and Safety Journal, Dr. Karydas shares the stories of HT&K’s origins and how they are a newcomer in supplying fluorinated surfactants to the firefighting industry.

After making a dynamic entrance, HT&K are rapidly gaining recognition and market share, now supplying to some of the largest companies in the AFFF business.

Dr. Karydas epitomises HT&K’s venture as being a “natural evolution”, one that has allowed the company to become anything but your typical fluorosurfactants producer.

Please tell us about HT&K and why they decided to enter the fluorosurfactants manufacturing business at a time when most major suppliers have exited it?

HT&K was founded in 2010 and has R&D and production facilities with 70 employees in Helon, Dongguan and Qingyuan, China.

We are one of the largest producers of fluorochemicals for textile applications.

In 2019 when the AFFF industry began experiencing fluorosurfactant supply problems, we were able to recognize this opportunity, making a venture and natural progression into fluorosurfactant production.

Can you give us an overview of the supply situation of AFFF components and why they are so important to the firefighting industry?

AFFFs are extremely effective in extinguishing all types of fuel fires and have for decades been the dominant formulations for military and industrial applications.

The key components that provide these properties to the AFFFs are fluorinated surfactants and polymers.

These were first developed by 3M in the late sixties and by 1983, when I joined Ciba Geigy’s fluorochemicals division as a young PhD, Ciba Geigy and DuPont deNemours had joined the firefighting frey, albeit with different fluorocarbon technology than 3M.

Ciba Geigy produced surfactants under the LODYNEÒ name and DuPont was participating with technology originally developed by the French company Ugine-Kuhlmann.

Up until 2000, the only significant suppliers were the above three chemical giants.

In 2001, 3M withdrew from the market because of toxicity concerns over their PFOA/PFOS-based technology and Ciba Geigy soon followed because of a change in their business direction.

In 2003, Chemguard, after purchasing the fluorosurfactant know-how from Ciba Geigy, started to produce and market the LODYNEÒ products.

At around the same time, Dynax started to produce the LODYNEÒ fluorosurfactants under the DX designation as the Ciba-Geigy patents had expired.

By 2010, we had a situation where the three major suppliers were Chemguard and Dynax with Ciba Geigy technology and Chemours with their own technology.

In round numbers, this was a $90MM/year business, with DuPont having about 45% and the other two roughly splitting the remainder.

DuPont later transferred the fluorocarbon technology to a spin-off named Chemours, which marketed the fluorosurfactants under the Capstone designation.

Between the three companies, the demand by AFFF manufacturers for fluorosurfactants was satisfied adequately and timely.

In 2017 the situation changed abruptly; the first wave of lawsuits was filed against fluorosurfactant and AFFF manufacturers and, by mid-2025, there were more than 11,000 lawsuits filed against over 25 separate companies including 3M, DuPont/Chemours, Tyco/Chemguard and Dynax.

These were based on claimed water contamination and health effects caused by PFAS, with PFOA and PFOS in center stage.

This created turmoil in the fluorosurfactant market.

Chemguard exited the business, Chemours was not taking new customers, and Dynax could not keep up with demand, as some toll manufacturers had stopped production due to litigation.

Dynax recently shifted manufacturing to a toll producer in Mexico.

Finally, in early 2025 Chemours exited the CapstoneÒ business.

Do you feel this is when HT&K recognized the opportunity?

Correct, this was a natural evolution for HT&K.

The LodyneÒ and CapstoneÒ products technology is more than 40 years old and patent-free.

HT&K has a strong and experienced R&D group with more than 100 years of combined fluorocarbon experience; integrating the fluorosurfactants available from Chemguard/Dynax and Chemours into the product line was not a daunting task.

The Anti-Fire division was formed and in 2023 sales of substitutes for the Dynax products commenced.

In 2025, as Chemours was exiting the fluorosurfactants business, HT&K Anti-Fire introduced substitutes for the two key CapstoneÒ products.

As the raw materials for fluorosurfactants production are made in Asia, HT&K has a major advantage in terms of delivery timing and cost, because they are not encumbered by tariffs and shipping duration and costs.

Why make chemically identical substitutes and not something new or proprietary?

It is important to realize that, once they develop and certify a formulation, AFFF manufacturers are essentially bound to using specific products.

Reformulation using different fluorosurfactants may be a long, expensive and often unsuccessful process.

Even if performance is acceptable, the new formulation will require recertification and as an indicator, UL certification can cost from $15,000 to more than $200,000 per product.

Multiply that by the number of products in the product line.

By offering fluorosurfactants chemically identical to those from Chemours and Dynax, HT&K Anti-Fire offers the formulators the opportunity to continue producing without the need for recertification.

There are a number of Chinese companies offering fluorosurfactants, what makes HT&K different?

HT&K is not your typical fluorosurfactants producer.

We are a company with an international and very experienced staff and access to international research institutions.

Our products are proven, direct substitutes for the Chemours and Dynax products.

Our production capacity is nearly 2,000 tons/year, enough to satisfy worldwide demand.

I understand the other Chinese manufacturers produce 30-100 tons/year.

We are unencumbered by lawsuits.

We produce in-house; we don’t use a toll manufacturer in a different country.

When the Anti-Fire division was first formed there was reluctance by AFFF manufacturers, even some based in China, to even test the products, as they had been burned before, almost literally, by testing fluorosurfactants from other Chinese manufacturers.

Two years later, we are the number one supplier in China and have made great inroads with the major companies in India and Russia, where we are rapidly gaining market share.

We are now making forays into Europe and North America.

I am convinced that within a few years we will be the leading fluorosurfactants supplier in the world.

We see that there is a large shift to fluorine-free foams in many countries – what do you think is the medium- and long-term outlook for AFFFs?

There is no doubt that worldwide consumption of AFFFs is reduced compared to the previous decade, particularly in Europe and North America.

There has been great progress in fluorine-free foams by a number of companies, but the reality is that AFFFs offer far superior performance.

Unfortunately, there is no side-by-side comparison during catastrophic fires, so it is difficult to realize that many catastrophies could have been avoided if AFFFs had been used.

My belief is that AFFFs will be around for the foreseeable future, certainly a couple of decades; there is still unabated demand for them in Asia and significant demand in Europe and North America.

They just need to be used judiciously; the potential for environmental pollution must be weighed against the potential loss of life and property.

There are situations where rapid extinguishment is required, for example in aircraft carriers where munitions and fuel are stored.

Many governments have given ten-year exemptions when it comes to these applications so AFFFs can be used.

My analogy is that to medication- you don’t receive chemotherapy if you have a headache, but if you have cancer it is the drug of choice in spite of the side effects.

The same holds for some fires that can only be extinguished by AFFFs; the environmental damage is miniscule compare to the potential damage and pollution caused by the fire.

What do you see as the future endeavors of HT&K Anti-Fire?

There is no doubt that the fluorine-free foams are the new frontier.

The limitation currently imposed on formulators is that they have to work with commodity surfactants, typically used as shampoos and degreasers.

It is important to realize that it took years of R&D to purpose-develop the fluorosurfactants used in AFFFs and that a similar strategy must be implemented to develop the next generation of fluorine-free foams.

This is the approach we are taking at HT&K Anti-Fire, as part of our search for pioneering fluorine-free formulations.

We have already introduced performance-leading fluorine-free concentrates for lithium-ion battery fires and for gasoline and jet A fuel fires.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

SFPE elects new President, President-Elect and Board for 2026

21 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Associations and Organisations Breaking News Fire Engineering People

SFPE leadership appointments for 2026

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has named Shamim Rashid-Sumar as its 2026 President and Shaun Kelly as its President-Elect.

SFPE announced the appointments on 20 January 2026 in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Rashid-Sumar is Senior Vice President, Fire Codes and Standards at the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association.

Her role includes working with National Model Building Codes and International Standards Organizations and providing technical support on codes, standards, regulations and legislation at national, state and local level.

The release lists committee roles for Rashid-Sumar across bodies including the ICC, ASTM, ACI and NFPA.

Board elections and continuing directors

Jimmy Jönsson has been elected Secretary-Treasurer.

Virginia Charter, John Frank, Craig Vesely and Karl Wallasch have been elected to the SFPE Board of Directors.

Each will begin their term on 1 January 2026.

Chris Jelenewicz, Chief Executive Officer of SFPE, said: “SFPE’s strength lies in the dedication and vision of its volunteer leaders, and we are proud to welcome our newly elected Board of Directors.

“These accomplished professionals bring diverse perspectives and deep technical expertise that reflect the global fire protection engineering community.

“Their leadership will be instrumental as SFPE continues to advance innovation, support the profession, and expand our impact in improving fire safety worldwide.”

The release said John Denhardt, Mark Hopkings, Elizabeth (Carcone) Pennacchio, Jeffrey Tubbs and Michael Wojcik will continue their service on the Society’s Board of Directors.

SFPE said it will solicit nominations for 2027 leadership roles in the coming months.

Building compliance with confidence: AESG breaks down Saudi code changes designers must track

21 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News Construction Middle East - Breaking News Safety

Abdullah Faza, Director of Fire & Life Safety at AESG, outlines updated Saudi code implications, guiding design teams through compliance requirements and authority processes.

On 30 June 2025, the Saudi Building Code (SBC 2024) came into effect, setting new requirements for projects central to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 programme.

For schemes already underway, the transition carries the risk of duplicated work, redesign and delays if compliance is not managed carefully.

At the same time, the updated code offers practical improvements, such as flexibility on aerial fire truck access and closer alignment with national standards, giving project teams more workable routes to approval.

AESG has responded by expanding its Fire & Life Safety team and securing certification from Saudi Civil Defence as one of only two international consultancies authorised to act as an AHJ reviewer.

Leading this work is Abdullah Faza, Director of Fire & Life Safety at AESG Middle East, whose team safeguarded around SAR 30 billion in assets in 2024.

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey sat down with Abdullah to discuss how AESG is supporting this new regulatory era.

How is SBC 2024 influencing AESG’s work since its official start date on 30 June 2025?

Since 30 June 2025, the way projects move through compliance has changed in practical ways.

For designs submitted under the previous edition but awaiting AHJ approval, the transition carries obvious risks.

Duplicated work. Redesign. Delay.

We step in early, map the delta to SBC 2024 and keep progress intact while meeting the new requirements.

It is about being fair and balanced with what is already designed, then adjusting where it matters.

SBC 2024 also fixes pain points.

Flexibility on aerial fire truck access resolves a requirement that had been excessive in many Saudi contexts.

Referencing SASO is another important step.

It starts the path to a localised testing and listing framework that fits the Kingdom’s needs.

Over time, that will reduce reliance on international listings that do not always align with regional realities.

Compliance becomes clearer, more achievable, better aligned with project goals.

What does Saudi Civil Defence AHJ reviewer certification involve, and how does it help clients?

Certification requires evidence. A strong record of complex reviews. Detailed knowledge of SBC 2024.

The ability to work directly with authorities so compliance is achieved consistently and fairly.

AESG is one of only two international consultancies certified by Saudi Civil Defence to act as an AHJ reviewer.

That status is backed by senior expertise, including James Quiter, our Executive FLS Consultant and Chair of the NFPA Building Code Committee, and Steve Apter, former Deputy Commissioner of the London Fire Brigade.

They add depth, and they mentor our leaders.

For clients, the benefit is felt early. We identify risks before they harden into redesign.

We shape proportionate strategies that meet intent and preserve delivery.

Certification gives us structured engagement with Civil Defence, insight into how giga projects operate and the levers that matter on schedule, governance and approvals.

It goes beyond design services.

It puts us alongside client goals and the national programme, and that creates better outcomes.

How did AESG safeguard about SAR 30 billion in assets across Saudi projects last year?

By being present through the full compliance chain. Civil Defence consultant reviews and approvals.

Design and supervision. Inspections and assessments of existing buildings.

Private fire code development where clients needed tailored guidance.

That breadth means we can carry a project from early concept to operation without losing the thread of intent.

The portfolio was wide. Airports, ports and tunnels. Masterplans. Hospitality, healthcare and residential. Schools, museums and offices. Retail and shopping malls.

Each asset class brings different hazards and constraints, yet the principle stays constant.

Start with code compliance as the foundation.

Then meet the intent using equivalencies and performance-based solutions where prescriptive routes do not fit.

Bring international best practice together with local knowledge and AHJ expectations.

That is how we protected around SAR 30 billion in assets.

Practical strategies. Evidence where needed. Decisions that keep people safe and keep projects moving.

What challenges arise when planning Fire & Life Safety for Saudi giga and mega projects?

Scale changes the conversation. Remote sites can make full firefighting water supply and networks a time and cost challenge.

Six metre access roads in isolated areas can be difficult to justify.

Iconic architecture often needs equivalencies to satisfy the code’s intent.

Early clarity is essential.

We see frequent confusion between smoke control and smoke ventilation in car parks and large enclosures, and that can trigger redesign if left late.

There is also the operational gap. Design strategies reach approval, then operations create their own approach and the thread is lost.

We are advocating for operational mandates, permits and approvals that carry design intent into use.

Our method is proactive and integrated. Embed FLS specialists from day one.

Use modelling, evacuation analysis and fire dynamics to build evidence.

Use our certified reviewer role to streamline authority engagement.

Engineering should add value to client goals and to Vision 2030.

Otherwise it is engineering for its own sake.

How do reduced prescriptions in SBC 2024 support performance-based design and modelling tools today?

Performance-based design was available in SBC 2018. SBC 2024 does not invent it.

What it does is reinforce when and how to use it.

The six years between editions gave the industry a proving ground.

Difficult approvals, technical debates, workshops with authorities.

That experience matured judgement on when prescriptive compliance is necessary and when alternatives achieve the same life safety intent.

Today there is clearer confidence in tools.

Smoke modelling that reflects geometry and heat release scenarios.

Evacuation analysis that tests flow, queuing and management strategies.

Fire dynamics studies for complex risks.

Used well, these approaches deliver safer, more workable solutions on projects where rigid prescriptions do not fit.

Saudi Arabia’s compliance culture is stronger for it.

You see better conversations with AHJs, clearer documentation of intent and a tighter loop between design, evidence and approval.

What new capabilities accompany AESG’s plan to expand the FLS team by over 25 percent?

Growth is about capability, not headcount alone.

We have added leadership on the ground with Associate Consultant Amer Almerabi in KSA.

We have brought in operational depth with Steve Apter as FLS Operations Advisor and Mentor.

His experience in incident command and emergency management helps bridge the gap between paper strategies and what happens on site.

With this expansion we are formalising operational advisory scopes: Policy and governance development, emergency response planning, city wide response strategies and private fire codes and guides tailored to client portfolios.

How is AESG supporting clients with submissions predating SBC 2024 – is grandfathering available?

Saudi Civil Defence has taken a pragmatic route for advanced designs.

Projects that reached key AHJ or CDC milestones under SBC 2018 before the transition can continue under that edition.

Detailed designs fully approved before the cut off stay on 2018.

Schematic designs that addressed major comments can proceed, provided teams move quickly to detailed design and secure approvals within a defined window.

Projects that did not reach these milestones adopt SBC 2024 in full.

We guide clients through those conditions. Identify which rule applies.

Close out outstanding comments.

Coordinate directly with Civil Defence to secure the right approvals.

The aim is to protect design effort and avoid years of rework while implementing the new code where it is due. It is structured. It is fair.

It keeps giga projects moving while raising the baseline of compliance across the programme.

How will your practice adapt to future code changes and emerging project types in the region?

Codes will continue to evolve. Our job is to clarify what changed, show how to apply it and, where needed, develop equivalencies that meet the life safety intent.

We will keep contributing to how rules are implemented in practice so compliance is clear and workable.

The focus is steady outcomes that match project goals and national priorities under Vision 2030.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Two decades of growth and precision: What 20 years taught Piping Logistics about quality

21 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News Fire Suppression

Jeroen De Smedt, CEO of Piping Logistics talks expansion, innovation and the next chapter in fire protection manufacturing

Could you introduce Piping Logistics and outline how the company has grown over the past 20 years?

Piping Logistics was founded in Belgium in 2005 as a specialist in piping systems for fire protection, HVAC and industrial applications.

What began as a small family business has grown into an international operation serving more than 60 countries.

The company has invested in people, facilities and technology, which has enabled it to move from distributing components to designing and assembling complete systems.

A major step in this journey is the new production facility in Romania, which expands manufacturing capacity and supports customers across Europe and beyond.

Despite this growth, the company’s focus remains delivering high-quality components with rapid and reliable service.

How would you describe the main stages of your development in products, people and market reach?

Our development has moved through several clear phases.

We began in 2005 as a distributor linked to AquaSecurity, supplying quality piping components to local installers.

That experience shaped our customer-focused approach and helped us understand the needs of contractors.

The second phase was the shift to manufacturing.

We established in-house R&D, hired engineers and quality specialists, and launched our Profit brand so we could design products that met European standards.

This investment in expertise was essential for our transition.

The third stage was broadening our offer.

We moved from supplying couplings and fittings to providing a full package for sprinkler and HVAC installations, including valves, switches, flexible hoses and later prefabricated sprinkler pipes.

As the range expanded, so did our workforce to maintain high service levels.

Our fourth stage was international expansion.

From serving Belgium and the Benelux region, we grew across Europe, the Middle East and other regions through distribution partners and a strengthened logistics network.

Gaining certifications such as FM, UL, VdS and CE enabled us to compete globally.

The most recent stage is marked by our 20-year milestone and the opening of our Romanian facility.

This site increases capacity, brings new colleagues into the company and positions us closer to key markets.

What does the new Romanian production facility mean for your capacity and customer service?

The Romanian facility significantly increases our capacity, particularly for prefabricated sprinkler pipes.

Producing these assemblies in Romania allows us to meet higher demand and deliver project-specific pipe sections quickly without overloading our Belgian operations.

Being closer to many European customers reduces lead times and adds resilience to our supply chain.

Clients in Central and Eastern Europe benefit from shortened transport distances, and we have greater flexibility to adjust production for urgent project needs.

The site also aligns with our sustainability goals.

Manufacturing within the EU limits transport emissions, supports compliance with environmental regulations and prepares us for future measures such as CO₂ import taxes.

The facility uses energy-efficient equipment and modern processes to reduce waste.

How has your approach to quality control, logistics and assembly evolved with this growth?

Our quality control has become more rigorous as we expanded.

We operate an ISO 9001:2015 certified system and run extensive in-house testing in our Belgian laboratory, covering pressure, dimensional and performance checks.

External certifications such as FM, UL and VdS reinforce this approach and ensure consistent standards.

Our logistics operations have grown to match our international reach.

We manage a 6,000 m² warehouse in Belgium, which holds one of Europe’s largest stocks of components and allows next-day delivery for many customers.

Advanced logistics software and an in-house team coordinate everything from container imports to local distribution, supported by regional centres and partners.

Our assembly work has also developed.

We now supply prefabricated sprinkler pipes produced with dedicated welding equipment and trained technicians, improving accuracy and reducing site work.

We offer kitting and packaging for specific project phases to simplify installation.

Across all these areas, our technical teams remain available to support customers, including the ability to be on site within 24 hours for critical issues.

What trends or client demands are shaping the piping and component supply market today?

One major trend is prefabrication.

Installers face tight schedules, so there is strong demand for components that reduce site work.

Prefabricated sprinkler pipes are now widely adopted for this reason, and clients increasingly prefer integrated solutions from a single supplier.

Digitalisation is another driver.

Customers use BIM and digital procurement tools and expect suppliers to offer compatible data.

We provide Revit BIM files, digital catalogues, order tracking and online communication channels to match these expectations.

Sustainability is shaping purchasing decisions.

Clients in Europe and the Middle East are focusing on the carbon footprint of their supply chains and favour suppliers that manufacture close to the point of use.

Our Romanian facility and wider sustainability strategy respond directly to this demand, supported by durable products that reduce replacement needs.

Higher certification requirements are also influencing the market.

Many projects insist on UL, FM, VdS and CE approvals for reliability.

This is especially true for large developments in the Middle East where UL-listed components are often mandatory.

Finally, immediate availability is increasingly important.

Customers want large inventories, short lead times and strong technical support throughout the project lifecycle.

This has led us to expand stock levels and streamline logistics to meet next-day or same-day requirements whenever possible.

Looking back, what moments stand out as defining milestones in your 20-year journey?

Key milestones include our founding in 2005 by André Saelens and the decision to move from distribution to manufacturing.

Launching our Profit brand and producing the first self-designed coupling were important steps in building our own product identity.

Expanding our portfolio in the 2010s with valves, alarm valves, flexible hoses and supervisory switches widened our capabilities.

Achieving FM, VdS and UL certifications was a major validation and opened access to international projects, including our first large contract in the Middle East.

Operational milestones include establishing our 6,000 m² warehouse in Belgium, which enabled broad next-day delivery, and formalising our 24-hour on-site support.

The opening of our Romanian factory in 2024 marked our first manufacturing site outside Belgium and a significant increase in capacity.

Reaching our 20th anniversary has given us the chance to reflect on these turning points and how they have shaped the company.

What are your priorities around partnerships for the next decade?

Partnerships are central to our strategy.

We want to work more closely with installers and engineering firms from the design stage, especially on prefabrication planning.

In the Middle East we aim to strengthen ties with local distributors and may establish regional service centres or training hubs to support clients.

We will continue collaborating with AquaSecurity and maintain an active role in industry associations.

Developing strong supply-chain relationships and attracting new engineering talent will also be vital.

Our goal for the coming decade is to grow in capability and responsibility while supporting customers with high-quality products and services.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Passion to protect: Reacton Fire Suppression sets 2026 priorities

20 January 2026

by Iain Hoey Breaking News Fire Suppression IFSJ Exclusives

Sam Malins, Chief Executive Officer at Reacton Fire Suppression, breaks down the key developments driving Reacton’s momentum and the priorities set for the year ahead

The world of fire protection often begins with a simple but powerful motivation – a desire to prevent loss before it happens.

For Reacton Fire Suppression, that motivation has become a defining part of its culture and communication: a passion to protect.

The company’s mechanically operated systems are now installed across industries and continents, protecting everything from vehicles and heavy machinery to precision manufacturing equipment.

Over the past year, Reacton has strengthened its UK headquarters, expanded its international footprint and continued to grow its presence in markets including the Middle East, Europe and the Americas.

As the company looks ahead to Intersec Dubai 2026 and the next phase of its global development, it remains guided by the same principle that has shaped its journey from the start – designing reliable fire-suppression systems that work when it matters most.

In this conversation with IFSJ, Sam Malins, Chief Executive Officer at Reacton Fire Suppression, reflects on the past year, discusses current priorities and shares what continues to drive the business forward.

What have the past 12 months involved for Reacton, and what is the company focused on now?

The past 12 months have been about putting a clear sales focus in place and driving growth after several years of concentrating on building our approvals.

We have divided the sales side of the business into two parts, vehicle systems and clean agent systems, because we want the sales cycle to be as straightforward as the products themselves.

On the vehicle side we cover on and off road vehicles and heavy plant.

That includes mining equipment, quarrying equipment, waste and recycling machinery and on road fleets such as busses and military vehicles.

We also protect taxis.

In the UAE alone we protect more than 4500 vehicles, including 3000 busses and 1500 taxis.

That has been a major focus for us.

The clean agent side covers electrical control panels, CNC machines, wind turbines and a wide range of industrial applications where a clean agent is required.

So overall, the year has really been about growth and simplifying the sales structure so customers can reach the right product quickly and easily.

What does Reacton’s passion to protect mean to you personally, and how does it guide the company?

We started Reacton about 15 years ago with a clear intention to protect assets in a commercially viable way.

Fire suppression should be affordable for everyone.

It should not be something where you have to think twice because of the price point, especially when the aim is to protect people and assets around the world.

That thinking has guided us from day one.

We have worked hard to gain approvals while keeping the systems affordable.

We are proud to have the smallest approved dual agent system in the world and the smallest approved powder bus system.

By getting high performance into the smallest possible system, we can offer strong pricing and very high quality.

How do you maintain Reacton’s sense of purpose as the business grows across international markets?

It starts with hiring the right people.

We put a lot of effort into finding people who share our values and are passionate about getting our products out into the world.

Inside Reacton we feel like a family or a friendship group, and that is part of how we work.

When I move through the business that is how it feels, and I think that culture carries through to everything we do.

When we win big contracts to protect large fleets the whole team gets excited.

The excitement comes more from knowing those fleets will be protected properly than from the monetary rewards behind it.

That reinforces the purpose all the time.

It also helps that we have always focused on getting the pricing structure right.

When we win work because the systems perform well and the pricing is fair, that momentum feeds the passion to keep pushing forward.

What steps have strengthened Reacton’s global presence, and which regions are driving the strongest growth?

Reacton is strategically positioned around the world.

Our headquarters are near London, we have facilities in Phoenix, Arizona and a sales office in Dubai.

Being close to customers means we can support them properly, and that is the model we want to expand.

We have also added a representative in India to support that region.

We look at where our competitors are strong on price but weaker on performance, because that is where we know we can make the biggest impact.

From our testing we know our systems perform extremely well, and when you combine that with competitive pricing and strong approvals, we can go in and take market share with confidence.

The major growth areas for us are the United States, the Middle East and India.

We also have projects in Africa, Indonesia and Australia.

We protect the world’s largest open gold mine in Uzbekistan and work very closely with our distributors there.

We have strong relationships with distributors everywhere, and the closer we work with them, the more grounded we are in their markets and the better support we can give to their customers.

How does your expanded UK headquarters and manufacturing base support quality and responsiveness worldwide?

We moved into our 12,000 square foot Essex facility in 2017.

Over the years we added mezzanine after mezzanine until we simply didn’t have the space to expand.

It became much larger than it started, but we eventually outgrew it.

We could not hold enough stock before manufacturing, and once products were manufactured the goods out area was always in the way.

We have now moved to a 36,000 square foot building in Witham, and it is an incredible facility.

It feels like it was designed for us.

We have a separate CNC machine shop, a dedicated manufacturing line and a separate goods out building.

The space gives us room to grow, and I believe it could support six to eight times our current volume.

There is no mezzanine yet, so we could add one and effectively double the floor space.

It also has a large outdoor area for product testing and for managing articulated vehicles and container deliveries.

What trends or challenges are shaping fire suppression demand across transport, construction and manufacturing sectors?

Electrification is the biggest trend.

As more vehicles become electric, it becomes even more important to protect the electrical components.

People ask whether we protect electric vehicles, and the answer is absolutely.

A lot of EV fires start in electrical components outside the battery, so we protect those components to help prevent fire ingress into the battery.

We are seeing strong growth in clean agent systems across the electrified transport sector.

At the same time diesel vehicles will remain in use for many years, and we are seeing countries now demand fire suppression on busses as standard.

That is driving growth as well.

There is also a shift where large global corporations buy smaller operators, and those corporations often mandate fire suppression across all their fleets, which increases uptake.

Another big factor is certification.

We are the only company with a UL direct clean agent system, and that gives customers confidence because it is a very high level of certification for electrical control panels.

What elements of Reacton’s origins or ethos remain central to how you design and refine your systems?

Reacton comes from the heavy plant industry, especially the waste and recycling sector.

From the beginning we had a vision to bring affordability to asset protection because we had our own assets and knew what was needed.

We are very passionate about making sure people do not have to think twice about protecting their equipment.

We also have a circular economy approach through the group.

We own Fireward, our UK distributor, as well as the waste operator, which means we get live feedback straight from the field.

Reacton designs the system, Fireward installs it and the operator provides immediate operational insight.

That creates a fast loop, allowing us to test improvements quickly and refine the products in real conditions.

This has become a core part of how we develop and improve our systems.

What will be Reacton’s main focus at Intersec Dubai 2026 when meeting partners and customers?

We want to keep things simple and showcase the two sides of our product range, the vehicle systems and the clean agent systems.

We also use Intersec as a gathering for our team.

Our representative from India will be there, our colleague from the United States will come over and the UK team will be there, so it is a great way to start the year together.

We really value time with existing customers.

Alongside the stand we have a separate room for the full three days where we will present what 2026 and 2027 will look like for Reacton.

We will run a presentation each day, covering updates and future plans.

It also gives new prospective customers a chance to see everything in one place.

What are Reacton’s priorities for the year ahead, and where do you see the strongest opportunities?

After about a year and a half of focused selling we have seen strong growth.

In 2026 we are looking forward to adding new approvals and products to the range.

These include a new UL approval, an updated AS 5062 approval and approvals for specific regions.

We think this is the right moment to expand that part of the offering and give distributors more certified options for their customers.

We also have new products coming.

One is a heavy duty pneumatic linear detection tube designed for very harsh climates.

We have a new driver indication system coming in early 2026, which brings more features than before.

There are a couple of other products in development that we will talk about later.

Because growth has been strong, 2026 is about adding more products and more approvals to support the next phase.