Global HSE Group to exhibit fire safety solutions at Intersec 2025 Dubai

by EventsHealth and Safety

Global HSE Group to exhibit at Intersec 2025

Global HSE Group will attend Intersec 2025 from 14th to 16th January at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The company plans to highlight its Global Technical Services division, comprising fire engineers and technical fire consultants who specialise in fire safety engineering, compliance, and fire risk management.

Fire safety solutions tailored for the UAE and Middle East

The team provides fire advisory services throughout the construction process, including fire safety design, fire strategy, technical support, design review, verification, and external wall technical reviews.

Their services aim to support projects in the UAE and Middle East by ensuring compliance with global safety standards.

Intersec 2025 marks a key event for the industry

Intersec 2025 will be the 26th edition of the event, following its 2024 Silver Jubilee.

The previous edition attracted over 47,000 trade buyers from 141 countries, including industry leaders and government officials.

Intersec is a significant platform for showcasing security, safety, and fire protection advancements.

Global HSE Group comments on their participation

Andrew Cooper, Managing Director of Global HSE Group, said: “We’ve looked at exhibiting at Intersec in Dubai for a number of years and felt that 2025 was the right time to take the leap.”

He added: “We have a huge amount of expertise and experience working across a variety of sectors, and our fire engineering services are perfectly suited to the UAE and Middle East to help ensure fire safety compliance.”

Global HSE Group to exhibit fire safety solutions at Intersec 2025 Dubai: summary

Global HSE Group will exhibit at Intersec 2025 in Dubai from 14th to 16th January.

They plan to showcase their Global Technical Services division, offering fire safety engineering, compliance, and fire risk management services.

Intersec 2025 follows a successful 2024 event that drew over 47,000 trade buyers from 141 countries.

Managing Director Andrew Cooper noted the company’s expertise and its suitability for the UAE and Middle Eastern markets.

Middle East fire risks and climate challenges addressed at Intersec 2025

by Breaking NewsEventsMiddle East - Breaking NewsMiddle East - Events

Rising fire risks due to climate change in the Middle East

Climate change is exacerbating fire risks in the Middle East, increasing challenges for urban and industrial safety.

As noted by Messe Frankfurt Group, organiser of Intersec, rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and water scarcity are intensifying fire hazards across the region.

By 2050, the UAE is expected to experience 133 to 144 extreme heat days annually, while Saudi Arabia is projected to face 108 to 124 days under leading climate scenarios.

Dana Nassif, Senior Consultant – Fire & Life Safety, WSP Middle East, highlighted these issues: “Rising temperatures and droughts are increasing fire risks across the Middle East.

“Water scarcity poses a significant challenge for firefighting systems, particularly as urban areas expand.”

Technology and innovation for firefighting challenges

The Fire & Rescue Conference at Intersec 2025 will focus on using technology to tackle these issues.

Sessions will explore AI-driven fire prediction, water scarcity solutions for firefighting, and automated emergency response systems.

Other topics include adapting fire codes for existing buildings in Abu Dhabi and the use of advanced fire technologies.

Paul Jennings, Assistant Fire Commissioner at Red Sea Global, stressed safety measures: “We have implemented comprehensive in-house emergency response protocols to address potential situations swiftly and effectively.”

Regional resilience and proactive initiatives

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are implementing strategies to enhance climate resilience.

Saudi Arabia has invested $6 billion in 200 water projects to mitigate drought, while the UAE’s Water Security Strategy 2036 aims to address water scarcity.

These initiatives align with efforts to adapt firefighting strategies to new environmental challenges.

Intersec 2025 to showcase global fire safety solutions

Intersec 2025 will host 1,200 exhibitors from 60 countries, highlighting advancements across fire safety and related sectors.

The Fire & Rescue sector will feature companies like NAFFCO, Bristol Fire Engineering, and Wagner, presenting technologies tailored to the industry’s needs.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Intersec 2025 will provide a platform for fire safety experts, technology innovators, and decision-makers to address the growing fire risks in the Middle East.”

Middle East fire risks and climate challenges addressed at Intersec 2025: Summary

The Fire & Rescue Conference at Intersec 2025 will address increasing fire risks in the Middle East, focusing on climate-induced challenges such as rising temperatures, water scarcity, and extreme weather.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia are implementing measures, including Saudi Arabia’s $6 billion water projects and the UAE’s Water Security Strategy 2036.

Intersec 2025, held from 14-16 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will showcase AI-driven technologies and solutions from over 1,200 exhibitors, fostering collaboration to advance regional resilience and safety.

Worsley Hotel fire memorial service marks 50 years since fatal blaze

by EventsFeatured News

Firefighters and families commemorate 50 years since Worsley Hotel fire

On Friday, 13 December 2024, over 100 firefighters, survivors, and family members gathered at Clifton Gardens, Maida Vale, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Worsley Hotel fire.

The fire, deliberately started on 13 December 1974, claimed the lives of seven people, including Fireman Hamish Petitt.

Survivors, retired firefighters, and family members attended the event to honour those lost in the tragedy.

During the service, firefighters paraded outside the former hotel. A historic fire engine that had attended the original incident was displayed.

Wreaths and floral tributes were laid by firefighters, the Fire Brigade’s Union, and family members.

Remembering the events of the 1974 Worsley Hotel fire

According to the London Fire Brigade, the fire was started deliberately in two locations inside the hotel.

Initial crews from Paddington, Manchester Square, and Belsize fire stations faced a rapidly spreading fire, with more than 30 people trapped inside.

Thirty fire engines were eventually called to control the blaze. Four firefighters from Paddington entered the building to locate the fire’s origin.

While investigating, the ceiling collapsed, trapping the crew under debris and a water tank.

Three were rescued, but Fireman Hamish Petitt lost his life. Former Station Officer Neil Wallington, the first officer at the scene, recalled: “It was an incredibly cold and windy night.

“We could smell the smoke before we even left the fire station. All the firefighters showed unimaginable bravery when they responded to the fire on that night, and Hamish made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Family and survivors reflect on the tragedy

Hamish Petitt’s brother, Ian, who later joined the London Fire Brigade, spoke at the service: “Hamish wasn’t one for ceremonies, but I’m glad he’s remembered.

“After his death, I was inspired to follow in his footsteps and became a London firefighter myself.”

Survivor Thomas Philip Carr, who was an 18-year-old porter living in the hotel, shared his experience: “I was in the attic when the building filled with smoke.

“We had to smash a window to get onto the roof. All of a sudden, the roof collapsed.

“Out of instinct, I jumped off the roof and landed in a nearby tree. Without the firefighters, I wouldn’t be here today.”

Firefighters honouring a legacy

Paul Anstey, Station Commander for Paddington Fire Station, highlighted the enduring legacy of the Worsley Hotel fire: “Every firefighter who has served at Paddington knows about the Worsley Hotel fire and Fireman Hamish Petitt.

“His loss is an example of the ultimate risk firefighters can face. Today, we remember Hamish and the six others who lost their lives.”

Worsley Hotel fire memorial service marks 50 years since fatal blaze: Summary

A memorial service was held on 13 December 2024 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Worsley Hotel fire in Maida Vale, London.

The fire, which occurred on the same date in 1974, resulted in seven fatalities, including firefighter Hamish Petitt.

Attendees included firefighters, survivors, retired crew members, and family representatives.

The service featured a parade, a historic fire engine display, and tributes to honour those who died.

Firefighter Hamish Petitt’s sacrifice and the bravery of all those involved were highlighted in speeches from family members, survivors, and current fire service leaders.

The Worsley Hotel fire remains a significant part of London Fire Brigade history, serving as a reminder of the dangers faced by firefighters and the lives saved through their efforts.

Howler Hot Topics event tackles fire safety in construction

by EventsResearchSafety

Fire safety compliance challenges in welfare areas

On 26 November 2024, Howler hosted its first Howler Hot Topics roundtable at London’s Shard.

The event, organised in collaboration with partitioning specialist Westgate, focused on fire safety compliance in construction and refurbishment projects.

The discussion centred on the Joint Code of Practice on the Protection from Fire of Construction Sites and Buildings Undergoing Renovation (JCoP).

This code highlights the importance of fire safety in welfare areas and site accommodation, which are often overlooked but crucial for compliance.

Collaboration in fire safety standards

Attendees shared insights on balancing strict fire safety planning with practical solutions.

Gary Askew, Managing Director of Howler UK, stated: “Collaboration is key to advancing fire safety standards.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Westgate, whose expertise in fire safety partitioning complements our own solutions for fit-out projects.”

The event provided a platform for professionals to discuss how to address complex fire safety issues while driving industry progress.

Key discussions and industry impact

The roundtable featured conversations on real-world challenges, actionable solutions, and the need to prioritise fire safety during all construction phases.

A whitepaper summarising these discussions is now available on Howler’s website.

The success of this event has spurred plans for a second Howler Hot Topics roundtable, which will take place in northern England early in 2025.

Howler’s approach to fire safety

Howler has nearly 40 years of expertise in temporary fire safety solutions.

Through initiatives like the Howler Hot Topics series, the company aims to create forums to address fire safety challenges and improve safety standards across the construction industry.

Howler Hot Topics Whitepaper Summary

The whitepaper summarises the discussions from the inaugural Howler Hot Topics event held in November 2024, focusing on fire safety in site accommodation during construction or refurbishment projects.

The discussions addressed two critical aspects of fire safety: the legal obligation to protect lives and the broader importance of safeguarding property and livelihoods.

Key insights included practical challenges in adhering to the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) and the importance of adopting a risk-based approach.

Insurers stressed the need for “best endeavours” and highlighted the value of a thorough Fire Risk Assessment.

Three recurring themes emerged: early planning, proactive communication, and ongoing collaboration.

Specific challenges discussed included:

  1. Fire compartmentation for site accommodation: Practical and cost barriers to achieving 30-minute fire resistance. Risk-based mitigations such as automatic detection were proposed.
  2. Fire Brigade access: Addressing issues for multi-storey projects exceeding height limits under JCoP.
  3. Contractor competency: Emphasising the need for verified skills and construction-specific fire risk assessment expertise.
  4. Fire exits and protective coverings: Meeting safety requirements while considering practicality and cost.
  5. Lithium battery risks: Promoting awareness and quality control to reduce fire risks from charging equipment.

Participants also stressed the importance of involving clients, building management, and insurers early in the process to align strategies effectively.

The insights and recommendations aim to help industry professionals navigate fire safety complexities and enhance compliance practices.

Howler hosts inaugural fire safety event at London’s Shard: Summary

Howler launched its first Howler Hot Topics event on 26 November 2024 at London’s Shard, focusing on fire safety in construction.

Organised with Westgate, the roundtable discussed compliance challenges in welfare areas and site accommodation under the JCoP guidelines.

Attendees explored solutions to balance safety planning with practical implementation.

Managing Director Gary Askew emphasised the importance of collaboration in improving fire safety standards.

A whitepaper summarising the event is now available online.

Following its success, a second roundtable is planned for early 2025 in northern England.

ASFP announces winners of 2024 Passive Fire Protection Awards

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsPassive

ASFP recognises excellence in passive fire protection at 2024 awards

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) celebrated its 2024 Passive Fire Protection (PFP) Awards on 28 November at the Athena Hotel in Leicester.

According to ASFP, the winners were selected by an independent judging panel comprising fire industry leaders.

Best large-scale installation/project of the year: LDD Construction

LDD Construction was awarded Best Large-Scale Installation/Project of the Year for its work on the 96MW Hyperscale Data Centre campus, Powergate, in North Acton, London.

Judges praised the company’s comprehensive account of challenges and solutions, showcasing the project’s complexity and innovative problem-solving approaches.

Best small-scale installation/project of the year: Novus Property Solutions

Novus Property Solutions received recognition for its long-term partnership with Platform Housing Group, delivering £3.5 million of passive fire protection works annually since 2018.

The judges highlighted Novus’s technical precision and its effective mobilisation of staff and resources to address challenges successfully.

Passive fire innovation of the year (Project): Knauf Insulation

Knauf Insulation secured the award for Passive Fire Innovation of the Year (Project) for its Rocksilk® RainScreen FFCB, a non-combustible cavity barrier.

The product offers ease of installation, meets Euroclass A1 fire safety classification, and provides architects and designers with a cost-effective, reliable solution.

Passive fire innovation of the year (Digital): CLM Fireproofing

CLM Fireproofing won the award for its BIM Plugin, an advanced tool that uses 3D models to enhance planning and implementation of passive fire protection strategies.

Judges noted the plugin’s utility in supporting professionals across the industry, including architects, contractors, and fire engineers.

Training and development of the year: Checkmate Training Academy

The Checkmate Training Academy was recognised for its commitment to the training and competency of staff and contractors.

Judges commended its in-house training facilities and a clear, well-documented strategy for ongoing upskilling, supported by detailed training records.

Best customer service of the year: Novus Property Solutions

Novus Property Solutions was also awarded Best Customer Service of the Year, with special mention of community liaison officer Charlotte Derwent.

Her empathetic approach ensured tenant safety during a challenging situation, exemplifying Novus’s commitment to compassionate customer care.

Marketing campaign of the year: FSi/Promat

FSi/Promat’s “Every Clad Needs a Silverliner” campaign achieved the Marketing Campaign of the Year award.

The campaign generated a £500,000 sales pipeline with a 23:1 return on investment and reached over 500,000 people, including 100,000 on LinkedIn.

Highest engagement award: Warrington Fire Testing and Certification

Warrington Fire Testing and Certification was honoured for its active involvement with ASFP, including completing training courses and contributing to technical groups.

This recognition underscores Warrington’s commitment to advancing excellence within the passive fire protection sector.

Individual rising star of the year: Chelsea Campbell

Chelsea Campbell of the Encon Group was recognised for her dedication to supporting colleagues and customers through training and promoting best practices in fire protection.

Her regular participation in industry events and training initiatives highlights her contribution to building competence in the field.

Level 3 academic achievement award: Emma Holley

Emma Holley of Origin Housing achieved the Level 3 Academic Achievement Award after completing the ASFP Online Course and obtaining the highest score in her IFE Level 3 exam.

Her success reflects her dedication to professional development and excellence in passive fire protection.

Level 2 academic achievement award: Jayde David

Jayde David of Siderise Insulation received the Level 2 Academic Achievement Award for her exceptional performance in the IFE Level 2 exam.

The recognition highlights her commitment to excellence and passion for passive fire protection standards.

Advocate of the year: Paul McSoley

Paul McSoley was recognised as Advocate of the Year for his 25-year career dedicated to advancing passive fire protection.

His work with the Passive Fire Knowledge Group and efforts to promote higher standards and collaboration earned him this accolade.

Lifetime contribution award: Nigel Morrey

Nigel Morrey was honoured with the Lifetime Contribution Award for his 30-year impact on fire safety standards, innovation, and ASFP leadership.

His work on ASFP Technical Groups and representation of the sector on industry panels underscored his enduring contributions.

ASFP leadership’s remarks on the awards

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward praised the winners and all entrants for their contributions to the sector, stating:

“The ASFP Passive Fire Protection Awards are the highlight of our year, enabling us to recognise all the excellent work conducted by our members and reward those companies and individuals who excel and advance the sector.”

Ward also commended the independent judging panel for bringing new insight to the process and emphasised the expertise and dedication of ASFP member companies.

S Jones Containers to discuss lithium-ion battery regulation at Fire Safety Event

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

Panel to address UK lithium-ion battery regulation

Walsall-based container conversion specialist S Jones Containers is set to host a panel discussion at The Fire Safety Event in April 2025.

The seminar, led by Andrew Nicholls, Conversions General Manager at S Jones Containers, will focus on the regulatory gap surrounding the manufacture and storage of lithium-ion batteries in the UK.

It will also explore how manufacturers can safeguard staff and equipment during battery development and testing phases.

Lithium-ion batteries, such as those used in electric bikes and vehicles, can pose significant fire risks during “thermal runaway” events, which can cause fires to burn intensely for prolonged periods.

The panel will examine how proper storage and handling can mitigate these risks.

Specialist storage solutions developed for battery safety

Over the past decade, S Jones Conversions has worked with manufacturers to develop containerised storage solutions to support battery testing and storage.

These containers are designed to maintain safety during intensive testing processes, including cycle and abuse testing.

To address the challenges posed by high-intensity battery testing, the company collaborated with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and battery manufacturers.

The resulting solutions are engineered to withstand the unique stresses of the battery development process.

Calls for UK battery certification reform

S Jones Conversions has been vocal about the need for enhanced regulations on battery manufacturing and testing.

Earlier this year, the company supported amendments to the Product Safety and Metrology Bill, which aim to reduce risks from inadequately tested batteries.

The seminar at The Fire Safety Event is seen as an opportunity to continue advocating for changes that will enhance safety and accountability within the battery industry.

Event details to be announced in 2025

The Fire Safety Event, held at NEC Birmingham, is dedicated to improving fire safety management across industries.

The 2025 edition will take place over three days in April and is expected to feature a range of discussions and expert panels.

Details of the event’s schedule and speakers will be released in the new year.

S Jones Containers to host panel on lithium-ion battery regulation at NEC Birmingham: Summary

S Jones Containers will lead a panel at The Fire Safety Event in April 2025 at NEC Birmingham.

The seminar will address the need for stricter UK regulations on lithium-ion battery manufacture and storage.

Andrew Nicholls will host the session, discussing risks associated with battery testing and handling, including thermal runaway events.

S Jones Conversions has developed containerised storage solutions in collaboration with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and industry manufacturers.

The event will continue calls for regulatory reform, following the company’s support for changes to the Product Safety and Metrology Bill.

Event details will be announced in early 2025.

Call for papers: Fire Australia 2025 invites industry professionals to share fire protection advancements

by EventsFeatured NewsResearch

Submit your paper for Fire Australia 2025 in Sydney

Fire Australia, the largest fire protection conference and tradeshow in the Southern Hemisphere, is calling for paper submissions ahead of its 2025 event in Sydney.

According to Fire Australia, the event brings together local and international experts to present research, technologies, and practical applications in fire protection.

The submission deadline is Friday 13 December 2024, with selections based on originality, technical relevance, and innovation.

The program committee is particularly seeking contributions on topics such as drones, artificial intelligence (AI), and emerging fire protection technologies.

Other areas of interest include risk analysis tools, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and fire modelling for bushfire and structural fire scenarios.

Focus on innovation and practical applicability

The conference prioritises innovation and real-world application.

FPA Australia invites submissions from a diverse range of professionals, including academics, researchers, and suppliers, with an emphasis on advancing fire protection practices.

Proposals should highlight how technologies like AI improve fire detection, prediction, and response.

Case studies demonstrating the use of drones for inspection and monitoring, or the integration of GIS for emergency planning, are highly encouraged.

Papers showcasing advancements in IoT, sensors, or other technologies for evaluating and enhancing building fire safety measures are also sought.

These should emphasise practical outcomes, such as improving safety and operational efficiency.

Selection criteria for submissions

Submissions will be evaluated for originality, clarity, and potential industry impact.

The committee is particularly interested in innovative methodologies and solutions that address current challenges in fire protection.

To increase acceptance chances, presenters are encouraged to include experimental data, case studies, or real-world results.

Papers must be well-structured and align with the conference theme of innovation in fire safety.

Notification of accepted submissions will be communicated by Friday 10 January 2025.

Presenters will have 30 to 45 minutes to deliver their papers, including time for audience questions.

Application process and requirements

Abstracts must not exceed 500 words and should be accompanied by a biography of no more than 100 words.

All authors and their affiliations must be clearly listed.

Submissions should include a clear title and meet the conference’s deadline of Friday 13 December 2024.

Selected presentations will be scheduled to align with the event program.

Fire Australia encourages the fire protection community to participate in shaping the future of the industry by contributing to this significant knowledge-sharing platform.

Call for papers: Fire Australia 2025 invites industry professionals to share fire protection advancements: Summary

Fire Australia 2025 is accepting paper submissions for its upcoming conference in Sydney, with a deadline of Friday 13 December 2024.

The event, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, seeks innovative research and applications in fire protection.

Key topics include drones, AI, GIS, fire modelling, and technologies for improving building fire safety.

Papers will be evaluated on originality, technical relevance, and potential industry impact.

Notifications of acceptance will be issued by Friday 10 January 2025.

Intersec 2025 policing conference to focus on Middle East law enforcement advancements

by EventsFeatured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsMiddle East - Events

Intersec 2025 to convene experts on future policing practices

Intersec 2025, a leading global event in security, safety, and fire protection, will hold its inaugural Intersec Policing Conference from 15 to 16 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The conference will address how advancements in technology and data are reshaping law enforcement and public safety, particularly in the Middle East.

According to Intersec, the event will feature over 50 expert speakers discussing global best practices in policing.

Prominent figures, including H.E. Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Commander in Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, and Nick Court, Assistant Director of IFCACC Strategy and Capability at INTERPOL, are set to share their insights into tackling modern law enforcement challenges.

Tackling cyber and financial crimes with advanced tools

A major focus of the conference will be the role of technology in combating evolving threats such as financial crimes and cyber scams.

Major Mohamed Al Abdulla, Head of the Financial Crimes Division at Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior, said: “Most scams will increasingly involve AI and robots, with fraudsters utilising advanced tools to conceal their IP addresses and locations.”

He added that law enforcement is adopting predictive tools to prevent crimes by integrating data more effectively between relevant entities.

AI and other technological advancements, such as drone operations and quantum-led crime prevention, are key topics on the agenda.

Networking and exhibitions to highlight global solutions

The broader Intersec 2025 exhibition will host 1,200 exhibitors from 60 countries.

Key participants include AEE Aviation, Genetec, Transguard Group, and Rapiscan, showcasing technologies such as drone and anti-drone solutions, video surveillance systems, and aviation security technologies.

Other sections will feature tailored products and services in Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, and Cyber Security.

These will cater to the diverse needs of security and safety industries.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, noted the importance of evolving law enforcement strategies: “The inaugural Intersec Policing Conference will showcase policing best practices from around the world, offering actionable insights for creating safe, secure, and smart cities for all.”

Middle East law enforcement leaders to convene under royal patronage

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event aims to foster collaboration between international law enforcement professionals.

The conference will address issues like proactive policing in a digital era, the future of road safety, and the use of strategic automation in policing.

Intersec 2025 will provide attendees with opportunities to network, engage in business, and learn about cutting-edge solutions in law enforcement and public safety.

Intersec 2025 to host inaugural policing conference in Dubai: Summary

Intersec 2025 will hold its first-ever Policing Conference from 15 to 16 January 2025 in Dubai, featuring over 50 global law enforcement leaders.

The event will address challenges such as financial crimes and cyber threats, focusing on technology’s role in modern policing.

Topics include AI applications, quantum-led crime prevention, and strategic automation.

Exhibitors from 60 countries will present innovations in security and public safety, spanning sectors like aviation security, video surveillance, and perimeter security.

The event, held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will offer networking and learning opportunities for law enforcement and safety professionals.

BBK marks 20 years of civil protection and disaster assistance in Germany

by EventsFeatured News

Germany’s BBK reflects on 20 years of civil protection

According to BBK, the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance was founded 20 years ago to address Germany’s lack of preparedness for crises and disasters.

The office, headquartered in Bonn-Lengsdorf, was established following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and catastrophic flooding on the Elbe and Danube rivers.

The BBK’s mandate includes protecting the population in defence scenarios, raising awareness about crisis preparedness, and supporting federal and state authorities.

It operates under the Federal Ministry of the Interior and has additional locations in Bonn, Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, and Berlin.

The agency currently employs around 700 staff and collaborates with the police, armed forces, and intelligence services to strengthen national security, alongside its own civil defence operations.

Leadership and priorities

Ralph Tiesler has served as BBK President since June 15, 2022, with Dr René Funk as Vice President since October 16, 2023.

President Tiesler stated: “Two decades after the BBK was founded, we are once again in a time of rethinking.”

He added: “In view of the security policy situation, we are faced with the urgent need to massively expand civil defence together with our partners.”

The agency emphasises public awareness of self-protection and preparedness as it aims to strengthen resilience across society.

Tiesler noted: “Our most important goal is a society that can deal with extreme situations – from state actors to companies and the population itself.”

BBK’s contributions to INTERSCHUTZ 2026

BBK will feature prominently at INTERSCHUTZ 2026, a global trade fair for disaster and civil protection.

The organisation will present its work at a dedicated stand, alongside its partners.

BBK’s spokesperson said: “Those involved in disaster and civil protection work with the Federal Office on a daily basis.”

INTERSCHUTZ visitors will have access to insights on BBK’s research, training initiatives, and the federal warning infrastructure, which includes the NINA warning app and Modular Warning System.

These systems are designed to support emergency communication for both federal and local authorities.

Expanding civil defence infrastructure

BBK plays a key role in Germany’s integrated emergency response system by designing and supplying specialised equipment.

This includes CBRN protection sensors, medical service vehicles, and civil defence helicopters.

BBK also provides operational frameworks such as handouts, guidelines, and training through the Federal Academy for Civil Protection and Civil Defence (BABZ).

The organisation collaborates with local governments to enhance disaster response capabilities and ensures the availability of equipment and resources for emergency services.

BBK reflects on 20 years of progress: Summary

The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) commemorates its 20th anniversary, highlighting its evolution since its establishment in 2004.

Founded in response to significant crises, BBK has grown into a vital pillar of Germany’s national security system, employing 700 staff across five locations.

BBK’s responsibilities include crisis preparedness, public awareness campaigns, and the operation of a national warning infrastructure.

The organisation will showcase its contributions to civil defence at INTERSCHUTZ 2026.

BBK President Ralph Tiesler reiterated the urgent need to expand civil defence in light of evolving security challenges.

Asia Fire Protection Inspection Council event brings fire safety leaders to New Delhi

by EventsFeatured News

International delegates convene for fire safety discussions

The 11th Asia Fire Protection Inspection Council (AFIC) Meet began on 21 November 2024 in New Delhi.

The event is organised by the Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

The AFIC represents fire protection organisations from 11 Asian countries and facilitates technical exchanges and knowledge-sharing for developing fire protection technologies and standards in Asia.

Twenty-one international delegates from six countries are participating in the three-day event, which runs until 23 November 2024.

Seminar highlights fire safety trends and future perspectives

In conjunction with the AFIC Meet, CFEES is hosting an international seminar titled “Latest Trends in Fire Safety and Future Perspectives.” The seminar has drawn over 100 delegates, including representatives from state fire services, the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and DRDO.

Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, delivered the inaugural address.

He emphasised the importance of the event as a platform for meaningful exchanges, sharing knowledge, and fostering collaboration on advanced fire safety solutions.

He said: “This event is a key step towards realising DRDO’s vision of creating a self-reliant India with world-class fire safety technologies.”

Asian fire safety expo showcases advanced technologies

The Asian Fire Safety Expo (AFSE) 2024 is being held alongside the AFIC Meet as part of the India Industry Expo 2024.

The Republic of Korea is participating as the Country Partner for the expo.

The AFSE aims to bring together stakeholders from the fire safety technology industry to showcase cutting-edge technologies and products.

The event provides a platform for collaboration between industry professionals, researchers, and decision-makers in India’s fire safety sector.

Aligning fire safety innovation with national objectives

The concurrent events organised by CFEES focus on innovation, self-reliance, and collaboration in fire safety technology.

By gathering researchers, academicians, professionals, and industries under one roof, the event aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing, promote technology transfer, and enhance national security.

This effort is aligned with broader objectives to build advanced capabilities in fire safety, foster industry partnerships, and encourage the development of indigenous technologies to address the needs of various stakeholders.

11th Asia Fire Protection Inspection Council Meet begins in New Delhi: Summary

The 11th Asia Fire Protection Inspection Council (AFIC) Meet, organised by CFEES and DRDO in collaboration with CII, commenced in New Delhi on 21 November 2024.

Representatives from six Asian countries and over 100 domestic delegates are attending the three-day event.

Alongside the meet, CFEES is hosting an international seminar on fire safety trends and the Asian Fire Safety Expo 2024.

The expo is part of the India Industry Expo, with the Republic of Korea as the Country Partner.

These events aim to promote collaboration, innovation, and self-reliance in fire safety technologies, aligning with national security and development goals.