NFPA seeks nominations for James M. Shannon Advocacy Medal Award

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has called for nominations for the 2023 James M. Shannon Advocacy Medal, which recognises fire and life safety advocates who have made significant contributions to reducing losses from fire, electrical, and other hazards, while furthering the NFPA mission.

The advocacy medal honours an individual or group that shares the values of former NFPA President James Shannon. During his 12-year tenure at as president, Shannon was recognised for his record of advocacy to reduce fire loss, most notably by spearheading the Coalition for Fire-Safe Cigarettes and advocating for fire sprinklers in all new homes.

Previous recipients have worked to increase use of sprinklers, advocated for the use of updated codes, and other activities.

The nominee application is available for download and can be sent to publicaffairs@nfpa.org until the submission period closes on February 9, 2023.

NFPA considers nominees who are members of the fire service or any individual or group whose advocacy efforts meet the award’s criteria. The medal recipient will be announced during the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, June 19 – 23, 2023.

“Each year we are inspired by the work of the nominees of the Shannon Advocacy Medal,” said Lorraine Carli, Vice President of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “Whether it’s through efforts to increase awareness of the benefits of installed home fire sprinklers, to advocate for the use of the latest codes and standards, or to better educate residents about ways to reduce wildfire risk in communities, we are pleased to be able to recognize their commitment and dedication to improving public safety and better protecting our nation’s fire service.”

Winners of the 2023 Intersec Awards announced

The winners of the Intersec Awards 2023 were announced last night (19 January) in a gala dinner event at the Ritz Carlton, DIFC. Among the winners were Dubai Police, UAE based Atos and Protec Fire Detection from the UK, as well as individuals from Aman Security Training and NAFFCO.

The Awards, which recognise the people, products and companies for exceptional performance in the fire, safety and security industries across ten categories attracted almost 1300 entries.

The People categories reward those who challenge industry standards, are exceptionally skilled at inspiring transformation and bringing about substantial change, and who have achieved great success as industry experts in their particular field.

The award for Outstanding Commitment to the Industry went to Adil Abdel-Hadi of Aman Security Training, for proactively raised the professionalism of the security industry throughout the Middle East and Africa. One way in which he achieved this was by introducing City & Guilds accredited training courses for both the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) and the Dubai Police Academy, which have benefited over 200,000 vocational students.

Speaking at the ceremony, Abdel-Hadi described his win as “Overwhelming”, adding “I am very honoured to receive it. It’s been wonderful.” He also acknowledged his fellow nominees and the organisers, referencing their ‘commitment and support to the industry for the past 20 years.’

Other winners in the people category included Les Allan, Chairman of the Association of University Chief Security Officers who was named International Leader of the Year; while Khalid Al Khatib, CEO of NAFFCO was selected as Regional Leader of the Year and Essa Ahmed Al-Mutawa of Dubai Civil Defence has been hailed as a rising star, receiving the Young Emirati Achiever Award.

Commenting on his win, Al-Mutawa said: “I feel extremely honoured to receive the award, it will help me try to think positively and to give more to my work and company,” and paid tribute to Intersec 2023, adding, “And I would like to thank everyone who works for this great event.”

Security winners

Homeland Security product of the year went to D-Fend Solutions for its EnforceAir counter-drone technology, while OPTEX REDSCAN pro Lidar series from OPTEX Europe won Commercial and Perimeter Security product of the year. Secure Logiq was recognised for its efforts offsetting the carbon of the electronic security manufacturing sector with the trophy for Security Sustainability service of the year and the award for Cybersecurity service of the year went to Atos for the AI platform powered managed detection and response services – Alsaac.

Fire and safety winners

Fire and Safety Sustainability Product of the year recognised the Eco Land and Eco Sea products from Detectionloop; and Fire Product of the Year was presented to Protec Cirrus HYBRID Aspirating Fire and Smoke Detector from Protec Fire Detection. Data-analytics platform chnnl, designed to help organisations create meaningful well-being and psychological safety strategies won Safety Product of the year, while a special award for Excellence in Community Service and Wellbeing was presented to Dubai Police for its Lost and Found service that takes advantage of artificial intelligence and digital technologies.

Alex Nicholl, show director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, commented: “Security, safety and fire protection play a vital role in the world, and the stars of the industries deserve to be celebrated.

“The calibre of entries for the Intersec Awards this year was incredible, demonstrating the commitment and innovation of people and companies to driving advancement across the board. It is an honour to reward and celebrate these achievements and I send my congratulations to all of our winners.”

The Winners

Fire & Safety Awards

12

Fire Product/Service of the Year

Protec Cirrus HYBRID Aspirating Fire and Smoke Detector – Protec Fire Detection

10

Exceptional Community Service & Well-being

Lost and found – Dubai Police

9

Fire & Safety Sustainability Product/Service of the Year

Eco Land And Eco Sea – Detectionloop

11

Safety Product/Service of the Year

chnnl – chnnl

Security Award Winners

8

Homeland Security Product/Service of the year

EnforceAir: D-Fend Solutions’ Counter-Drone Technology – D-Fend Solutions

7

Commercial & Perimeter Security Product/Service of the year

OPTEX REDSCAN Pro LiDAR series – OPTEX Europe LTD

6

Cybersecurity Product/Service of the Year

Managed Detection and Response services powered by AI platform – AIsaac – Atos

5

Security Sustainability Product/Service of the Year

Offsetting the carbon of the Electronic Security Manufacturing sector – Secure Logiq

People

4

Young Emirati achiever

Essa Ahmed Al-Mutawa – General Directorate of Civil Defense, Dubai

2

International leader

Les Allan – Heriot-Watt University

3

Regional leader 

Khalid Al Khatib – NAFFCO

1

Outstanding commitment to the industry

Adil Abdel-Hadi – Aman Security Training

Registration opens for FIREX 2023

Registration is now open for the only fire safety event in the UK to make third-party product approvals a condition of exhibiting. FIREX, exclusively supported by the Fire Industry Association, is back at the ExCeL in London on 16-18 May 2023. Free tickets are available here.

Where: ExCeL London, One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1XL

When: Tuesday 16, Wednesday 17, Thursday 18 May 2023, 10:00 – 17:00

Visitors have the opportunity to experience the latest third-party approved technology and solutions, network with thousands of global fire safety professionals and learn about the latest legislation and best-practice.

Many leading brands are already signed up to showcase the latest and most exciting fire safety innovations, including the likes of  C-Tec, Apollo Fire Detectors, Kentec, Advanced, Rockwool, Detector Testers, Warrington Testing & Certification, Aico, PlanRadaradar, Baldwin Boxall, Quelfire, Uptick, and many more.

At such a pivotal time for the sector, discover the latest fire safety best practices and regulations from leading industry experts. Have your say and join in on discussions ranging from concerns over single staircases in high-rise buildings to the role of IOT within fire safety.

Plus, for the first time, IFSEC & FIREX will be introducing the brand-new Distributor Network in recognition of the pivotal role distributors play in the professional fire and security sectors. Visiting customers can meet leading distributors such as ADI Global, DVS, CIE-Group, COP, Dynamic CCTV and Oprema to discuss product solutions from market leading suppliers.

A game changer or our show”

Event director, Gerry Dunphy, said: “I am incredibly proud to represent the only event in the UK which makes accreditation a condition of exhibiting. Neither you nor your customers take chances – so why should we?

“FIREX remains the biggest and best annual opportunity to stay up to date on the latest trends, developments, and opportunities. Every visitor will come away with knowledge and inspiration to help make your buildings comply and approach your projects more efficiently.

“This year, I am also especially excited about our sustainability initiatives, driving real change within both the events and the fire safety industry, as well as the new Elizabeth Line which will make it easier, faster and more convenient than ever to get there. A game-changer for our show.”

4 shows, 1 ticket

Enhance your fire safety strategies with solutions from health and safety, facilities management, security & smart buildings. FIREX also grants you free access to the co-located IFSEC, Facilities Show and Safety & Health Expo.

Registration is now open! Get your free ticket today.

Intersec to open in Dubai tomorrow with more than 800 exhibitors

The 24th edition of Intersec – the world’s leading trade fair for safety, security and fire protection – opens at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) tomorrow spanning more than 48,000 square-metres and running across nine halls and the Trade Centre Arena.

The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will feature 800 exhibitors from North and South America, the US, Australia, UK, Europe, Middle East, Balkans, Russia, CIS, North and South Africa, Asia, Scandinavia and Indian Subcontinent.

The exhibitor profile represents a 54% rise since 2022 with 180 new-to-show participants. Of the 55 nations represented by exhibitors, 10 will have their own national pavilions: Canada, China, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, South Africa, Singapore, Turkey and UK.

“This year’s show will feature some of the biggest industry names, alongside new entrants to the sector,” said Alex Nicholl, Show Director of event organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East. “We have 42 newcomers from the Emirates this year, which means the UAE now accounts for 20% of our exhibitor profile. Saudi Arabian participants are up 20% too, while we have also seen particularly strong growth from India, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkey, Iraq, Qatar, Nigeria and Egypt.”

Nicholl added that the growth is largely down to positive industry forecasts, high demand for solutions to combat increasing cyber-crime and strong international support from government and professional organisations, such the UAE Cybersecurity Council, Saudi Arabia’s National Security Services – SAFE and Huawei.

Dr Aloysius Cheang, Chief Security Officer, Huawei Middle East & Central Asia, said: “If you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, either you are looking the wrong way or you are the light. Start looking at the right way by being part of the community, join events such as Intersec and start sharing because cybersecurity is a team sport! And through sharing, you will become a beacon for others. This is why I am here and why Huawei is part of Intersec – to light up your future!”

Major new entrants include Thales of France, Singapore’s ST Engineering, Saudi Arabia’s SAFE, Germany’s AGMC/BMW, Israel’s D-FEND, the UAE’s Tabbara, Holland’s Robin Radar, Sigma Security of Greece, Poland’s Megavision, and VX Ray of the US.

The event will run from Tuesday until Thursday (17 – 19 January), with dedicated product showcases for commercial and perimeter security, homeland security, fire and rescue, safety and health, cybersecurity and special features, plus a powerful conference and knowledge-sharing programme.

A dedicated Fire & Rescue Conference will be hosted by Dubai Civil Defence and will see the region’s fire and emergency service leaders delve into the key challenges, opportunities, standards, policies and technology. Meanwhile, a highly focused Safety & Health Seminar will explore MENA’s new regulatory changes.

Other special features include the Attack Zone, which will be hosted by the Loss Prevention Certification Board and see exhibitors testing their products in live-action demonstrations; and the Safety Walk – sponsored by EnSafe Evacuation Chair, Jutec and Teijin – which promises “a catwalk of industrial safety gear”. Meanwhile, the Tech Stage will unveil innovations, including virtual reality solutions, anti-drone technology and new safety materials.

In the Start Smart Zone, start-ups will connect with decision-makers, buyers and potential investors, while the purpose-built Future Defenders Hack Arena will see cybersecurity teams from schools, universities and CISOs compete for prizes and industry recognition.

“Forecasts reveal an industry eager to invest,” said Nicholl. “The Middle East’s homeland security market is expected to grow annually by 14.5% to 2024, while the commercial security market is set for 16.5% annual growth to reach $2.3 billion in value by 2026. Rising cyber-crime is also fueling demand with the Middle East and African market estimated to grow 14.35% annually to 2030.”

Intersec this year also includes cybersecurity awareness sessions for students and sector professionals with Cybernode, a partnership between the Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC) and Thales, looking to up-skill the region’s cyber workforce.     

The main Intersec Conference features four dedicated streams and over 150 speakers. The invite only, two-day Intersec Security Leaders’ Summit is a high-level strategic convention for policymakers and decision-makers to collaborate, innovate and seek new technologies. The gathering will address government strategies, homeland security and policing, commercial and perimeter security and cutting-edge technologies. There will also be an on-stage conversation around the development of a holistic approach to large event security management in which FIFA’s Director of Safety, Security and Access will share learnings from the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Other conference highlights will be keynotes by DESC’s Dr Bushra Al Blooshi, Head of Research & Innovation, on pioneering the digital economy and another by Adrian Whelan, SVP, Head of Global Security at DHL Express, focusing on a future supply chain security roadmap.

The UAE Cybersecurity Council will also host a dedicated Cybersecurity Conference with attendees hearing from government leaders, CSOs and CISOs across oil and gas, BFSI, healthcare, hospitality and energy and utilities industries.

Intersec 2023 will also recognise the best of the security and safety industries through its awards programme, which has attracted 1,256 entrants – including 54 that have been shortlisted to be recognised at a gala dinner at the Ritz Carlton DIFC on Wednesday 18 January.

Messe Frankfurt Middle East anticipates Intersec 2023 will also deliver the event’s highest visitor turnout with pre-registrations showing an increase of 133% on 2021. Pre-registered visitors span 111 countries with first-time visitors coming from, among other countries, Ethiopia and Kenya.

Intersec 2023 is supported by Dubai Police, the Directorate General of Dubai Civil Defence, Dubai Municipality, the Security Industry Regulatory Agency, the UAE’s Cyber Security Council and Dubai Electronic Security Centre. The event has a comprehensive sponsor portfolio that includes NAFFCO, Saudi Arabia’s National Security Services – SAFE, Dahua Technology, Hikvision, Digifort, Western Digital, Ateis VELOX, Commport, Monitoreal, Honeywell, PERCo, FM Approvals, Huawei, Cellebrite, NX Digital Technology, Onvif and PricewaterhouseCoopers. It will be open to trade visitors daily from 10am until 6pm.

Fire Fighters Charity to host health and wellbeing webinars

The Fire Fighters Charity has lined up a series of webinars to help those in the industry boost their overall wellbeing in the next two months – with topics covering everything from cost of living to stress management.

The charity’s Wellness and Behaviour Change Coaches will be hosting a series of short webinars, covering a range of topics to promote wellbeing, sharing practical tips and advice on everything from finances to stress management, nutrition, sleep, menopause and more.

For those unable to attend, anyone can register and will receive a link to all of the recordings after the series has gone live, to watch them in their own time.

The webinars on offer are as follows

Resourcing your resilience:

  • 13th Jan (12:00): Managing Stress: Understanding how to recognise stress and strategies to help: Register now
  • 7th Feb (18:00): Developing personal resilience: Tools and strategies to build strength and resilience in day-to-day life: Register now
  • 13th Feb (19:00): Sleep and Health: Practical tips to get a better night’s sleep: Register now
  • 15th Feb (15:00): Relaxation and Mindfulness: Introductive techniques to help you relax and be present in the moment: Register now
  • 21st Feb (12:00): Cost of Living: Advice and support on managing your finances: Register now

Health, wellbeing and lifestyle:

  • 17th Jan (12:00): Nutrition and health: Practical strategies to improve your diet: Register now
  • 25th Jan (11:00): Musculoskeletal health: Discover how managing your health and wellbeing can prevent injuries: Register now
  • 30th Jan (10:00): Menopause awareness: Signs and symptoms of menopause and ways of coping: Register now
  • 24th Feb (10:00): Exercise and Mental Health: Understand the link between our physical and mental health, with strategies to become more active: Register now

Flourishing – living your best life:

  • 20th Jan (11:00): Stronger connections: Using strengths to deepen personal relationships: Register now
  • 23rd Jan (13:00): Wellbeing and nature: Exploring the health benefits of the outdoors: Register now
  • 3rd Feb (15:00): ‘What’s Strong With You’? Identifying your personal strengths and how they could boost your wellbeing: Register now
  • 10th Feb (12:00): Positive Pathways to Wellbeing: Introducing the concept of flourishing to improve wellness: Register now

For more information on each webinar, visit the dedicated web page on The Fire Fighters Charity website: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/latest/join-one-of-our-personal-wellness-webinars/

What’s on the agenda at Intersec 2023?

The global fire and safety industry will gather for Intersec at Dubai World Trade Centre from January 17-19 2023

Fire and safety professionals from around the world are expected in Dubai in January to explore the strategies and advanced technologies that will future-proof global safety. More than 1,000 exhibitors from 120+ countries will unite at the 24th edition of Intersec, the world’s leading trade fair for safety, security, and fire protection at the Dubai World Trade Centre from January 17-19, 2023.

Advanced technological innovation will be a central focus for the exhibition’s five key segments. Fire and rescue will showcase the latest firefighting technologies, the best international standards, and practices, and is supported by the Dubai Civil Defence. Safety and Health will be divided into environmental, industrial, and public health and safety, whilst Cyber Security will host cyber solutions, experts, from national leaders to public and private sector professionals, from cyber connoisseurs to advisors, hackers to responders, and cyber economists to corporate buyers.

Alex Nicholl, Show Director, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “We anticipate up to 30,000 security, emergency response, safety and cybersecurity professionals attending Intersec 2023, where technological breakthroughs will take centre stage and attract an influential participant profile.

“Industry experts, influencers, decision and policymakers, and distributors are uniting to explore the strategies and technologies that will govern the safety and wellbeing of future generations.”

Fire and rescue seminars

The global fire protection systems market is expected to grow to USD 84.6 billion by 2026, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4%. Due to the rising number of construction projects in the Middle East and North Africa region and increased preference for technologically advanced tools and equipment, the demand for fire prevention and safety implementation systems is forecast to continue rising. With the launch of Giga projects, KSA particularly will register a 5.5% CAGR by 2025, reaching a cumulative value of USD $402 million.

Against this backdrop, the Intersec fire and rescue seminars will gather the most prominent fire and emergency service leaders from across the region to talk about the key challenges, opportunities, standards and policies and technology. These CPD-certified seminars will help attendees learn, network and collaborate with industry peers.

Source products

For fire and rescue, Intersec 2023 is one of the world’s largest gathering of fire and emergency professionals showcasing the latest firefighting technologies, the best international standards and practices, supported by the Dubai Civil Defence. Products presented at Intersec will include: Fire Prevention and protection, firefighting equipment, emergency alarm and warning systems, rescue equipment, evacuation equipment, and safety design in buildings.

Safety and well-being at work and in the wider environment has never been so critical. This is now being reflected with the changing and dynamic supply chains and rapid evolution of solutions in protective clothing, PPE, air quality, ergonomics, occupational hygiene, occupational health, sanitisers, environmental and waste management, workplace safety, cleaning and general sanitisation, safety signage and equipment, staff wellbeing and regulations.

Intersec will bring together the safety professionals keeping us and our environment safe whether at work or at leisure. Attendees to the show will be able to source the very latest products solutions and services from building safety and facility managers to those responsible for cities, malls, and the workplace.

Safety solutions

The safety section divided into three sub sections: environmental health safety, industrial and occupational health and safety, and  public health and safety.

Environmental health and safety (EHS or HSE) is the department in a company or an organisation tasked with ensuring that the work undertaken by the company does not cause undue environmental damage, put the workers’ health and safety at high risk, complies with applicable legislation, and follows best practices. EHS aims to prevent and reduce accidents, emergencies, and health issues at work, along with any environmental damage that could result from work practices.

Products presented at Intersec will include: biological, chemical, and physical hazards; environmental hazards; air emissions and ambient air quality; energy conservation; wastewater and ambient water quality; water conservation; hazardous materials management; waste management; noise; and contaminated land.

Industrial safety refers to the safety management practices that apply to the industrial sector. Those processes aim to protect industrial workers, machinery, facilities, structures, and the environment. Products presented at Intersec will include:  communication and training and monitoring; physical hazards; chemical hazards; biological hazards; radiological hazards BG; personal protective equipment (PPE); special hazard environments.

Community health and safety refers to protecting local communities from hazards caused or exacerbated by project activities (including flooding, landslides, contamination or other natural or human-made hazards), disease, and the accidental collapse or failure of project structural. Products presented at Intersec will include: water quality and availability; structural safety of project infrastructure; life and fire safety (LFS); traffic safety; transport of hazardous materials; disease prevention; and emergency preparedness and response.

Networking opportunities

Intersec provides the perfect platform to reconnect with existing clients, draw new connections and network to drive new business growth and opportunities by connecting with the likes of: installers and integrators, procurement and purchasing professionals, consultants and specifiers, and manufacturers and distributors. Representatives from government, oil and gas, aviation and transportation, construction, maritime and ports, retail, hospitality, travel, healthcare, property, banking, finance, IT, telecommunications, logistics, transportation, education, major events, public spaces, manufacturing, and industry will all be present at the show.

Fire and Rescue personnel in attendance will include: fire engineers, fire chiefs, fire safety officers, project managers, fire risk consultants, emergency response managers, directors of operations, purchasing managers, safety inspectors, construction engineers, HSE managers, chief executive officers, managing directors, specifiers an architects, building service engineers, team leaders, fire services, smoke management division managers, fire testing engineers, firefighting engineers, section heads and system installer.

Key speakers and seminars

The Fire and Rescue conference at Intersec is hosted by Dubai Civil Defence and has been specifically designed to address the challenges and opportunities that are unique to the GCC region, as well as introduce the latest innovative technological advancements.

Alex Nicholl, Show Director says the agenda for the conference focuses on several key themes: standards and policies, new energy sources, innovation and technology, education, and collaborations.

Standards and policies will feature an update on the regional standards and policies and what we can learn from other countries outside the region. New energy sources will see an assessment of the risks associated with new and sustainable energy resources and taking measures to prevent fire breakouts. Innovation and technology deals with changes in the fire environment due to innovative technologies and finding new solutions to existing and emerging challenges before an emergency response is required.

Education will identify the greatest hazards facing the communities and using that information to create education and prevention programs to reduce the effect of those hazards, whilst collaboration will examine how to adopt a collaborative plan for disaster management, working together with other nations.

“As this conference is dedicated to Fire and Rescue, I do think that all of the sessions will be invaluable for attendees from the fire industry,” said Nicholls. “If I had to select a few in particular, some of the key sessions I would advise to look out for include ‘High Rise Firefighting – Practical to tactical’, during which Captain Brent Brooks of Toronto Fire, Canada will examine the unique firefighting challenges posed by tall buildings and review tactical response options to address challenges in operational deployment; as well as ‘100 Years – 100 Cities – The Evaluation of Urban Fire Risks’ by Dr Peter Wagner, Head of Leadership Department, Berlin Fire and Rescue Academy, Member of CTIF, who will discuss the specifics of urban fire risks and distinct types of fire risks in cities.

Nicholls said he was which looking forward to also a panel discussion featuring Vinay Deshpande, Technical Director – Fire and Life Safety, WSP; Steven Reilly, Principal Engineer – Fire and Life Safety Lead MENA, Cundall and Susan Lamont, Director of Fire Safety, Arup who will take part in discussion focused on ‘Fire safety and sustainability – approaching the net zero challenge’.

He added: “It is also worth attendees making the effort to discover the Tech Zone activation, which allows exhibitors at Intersec, including those in the fire and safety sector, to showcase their products and solutions in 20-minute bitesize sessions. The schedule for these presentations will be announced closer to the time, so attendees should keep an eye out to make sure that they don’t miss any exciting announcements.”

Finally, on the over 400 fire sector exhibitors taking part at in the show, Nicholl added: “Intersec really brings the global fire industry to Dubai, exhibitors come from around the world, such as Reliable and Potter from the USA, HD Fire and KV Fire from India, Detnov from Spain, Luke Alexander from Singapore and Coopers Fire and Reaction Fire from the UK. Of course, this is in addition to the many UAE based companies represented, including NAFFCO, Bristol Fire Engineering and Waterfall Pumps. In fact, around 70% of the industry’s global market leaders will be at Intersec 2023 – it really is the place to be to interact with the worldwide fire industry.”

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

Interview with Alex Nicholl, Show Director for Intersec 2023

Alex Nicholl, Show Director, Messe Frankfurt Middle East tells what fire and safety professionals should look out for at Intersec 2023

Why should people attend Intersec Dubai 2023?

Intersec 2023 is the must attend event for anyone in the security, fire and protection industries in the Middle East and further afield. It is the leading event bringing together key players in Commercial & Perimeter Security, Homeland Security, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, and Cyber Security, creating a unique platform for buyers, sellers and decision makers to meet, network and do business. The exhibition brings the the latest technology and innovations from around the world to Dubai. What’s more, Intersec is truly global, expecting more than 850 exhibitors from around the world – and an incredible 80% of the companies exhibiting are travelling from as far afield as the USA, Europe and Asia, in addition to the wider Middle East region.

We are also thrilled to be bringing some fantastic new features to Intersec for 2023: the Fire Fighter Challenge in association with 911 Fighter Challenge and supported  Dubai Civil Defense; the Attack Zone hosted by the Loss Prevention Certification Board; the Safety Walk showcase where exhibitors can to showcase and demonstrate their latest safety clothing and products; the Tech Stage gathering tech disruptors, innovators and thought leaders and finally Start Smart Zone connecting start-ups directly with key decisions makers, buyers and investors.

In addition to that, Intersec will feature four conference streams, each dedicated to bringing together the best and brightest minds in their respective market sector: fire & rescue, safety & health, cybersecurity and the security leaders’ summit. Attendees to these events will benefit from knowledge and insights from key players from around the world.

What’s particularly exciting about Intersec is that every element is affiliated with the relevant government entities here in the UAE, which, along with the Patronage of HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, demonstrates the commitment of the UAE Government to these important industries. Dubai Police and the Security Industry Regulatory Authority (SIRA) are affiliated with the security sector; Dubai Civil Defence with the Fire & Rescue element of Intersec; while Dubai Municipality supports the safety sector and the Cyber Security Council and Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) underscore the importance of the cyber sector. It is a testament to the value that the region places on these industries and how Intersec brings them together in Dubai, that we receive so much official patronage and affiliation.

So attendees to Intersec will benefit from networking and educational opportunities alongside discovery of the latest products and technologies – all in an incredible three-day program that has been designed to provide the greatest value to both exhibitors and visitors alike.

What is on the agenda for fire and safety professionals at Intersec this year?

Fire and Safety is one of the five pillars of Intersec and remains an essential part. Fire and safety professionals can, in addition to making connections with over 400 dedicated fire and safety exhibitors, as well as attend the dedicated conference stream hosted by Dubai Civil Defence and take part in – or simply watch – live activations such as the Fire Fighter Challenge or the Attack Zone.

The Fire Fighter Challenge in particular is taking place for the first time at Intersec, with teams of firefighters from across the GCC taking part. It’s a fantastic and fun way for exhibitors to demonstrate their equipment in action, to draw attention to the extraordinary levels of fitness required of our heroic firefighters and also introduces a level of friendly competition among the region’s firefighters.

The Attack Zone gives exhibitors a chance to really put their products to the ultimate test – where each will be tested to its limits by the LPCB in order to discover breaching time and breakthrough limits. Assessment will be based on LPCB standards and is another live action demonstration which will bring a new element to the exhibition.

And of course, both of these features are sure to be a magnificent spectacle for visitors too!

In terms of hosted visitors, we are expecting to receive delegations of Civil Defence representatives, including Director Generals, from around the region, including other Emirates such as Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, as well as Saudi Arabia and other locations within the GCC.

What key speakers and seminars should attendees from the fire industry look out for?

The Fire & Rescue conference at Intersec is hosted by Dubai Civil Defence and has been specifically designed to address the challenges and opportunities that are unique to the GCC region, as well as introduce the latest innovative technological advancements. The agenda for the conference focuses on several key themes: Standards & Policies, which will feature an update on the regional standards & policies and what we can learn from other countries outside the region; New Energy sources, assessing the risks associated with new and sustainable energy resources and taking measures to prevent fire breakouts; Innovation & Technology, dealing with changes in the fire environment due to innovative technologies and finding new solutions to existing and emerging challenges before an emergency response is required; Education, identifying the greatest hazards facing the communities and using that information to create education and prevention programs to reduce the effect of those hazards and finally Collaboration, which will examine how to adopt a collaborative plan for disaster management, working together with other nations.

As this conference is dedicated to Fire & Rescue, I do think that all of the sessions will be invaluable for attendees from the fire industry. However, if I had to select a few in particular, some of the key sessions I would advise to look out for include ‘High Rise Firefighting – Practical to tactical’, during which Captain Brent Brooks of Toronto Fire, Canada will examine the unique firefighting challenges posed by tall buildings and review tactical response options to address challenges in operational deployment; as well as ‘100 Years – 100 Cities – The Evaluation of Urban Fire Risks’ by Dr Peter Wagner, Head of Leadership Department, Berlin Fire and Rescue Academy, Member of CTIF, who will discuss the specifics of urban fire risks and distinct types of fire risks in cities.

In addition, Vinay Deshpande, Technical Director – Fire & Life Safety, WSP; Steven Reilly, Principal Engineer – Fire & Life Safety Lead MENA, Cundall and Susan Lamont, Director of Fire Safety, Arup will take part in panel discussion focused on ‘Fire safety & sustainability – approaching the net zero challenge’, which I am really looking forward to.

It is also worth attendees making the effort to discover the Tech Zone activation, which allows exhibitors at Intersec, including those in the fire and safety sector, to showcase their products and solutions in 20 minute bitesize sessions. The schedule for these presentations will be announced closer to the time, so attendees should keep an eye out to make sure that they don’t miss any exciting announcements.

Can you tell us about the range of exhibitors from the fire industry at the show this year?

There are over 400 fire sector exhibitors taking part at Intersec 2023 from all corners of the globe. We are particularly excited to welcome NAFFCO – one of the world’s the world’s leading producers and suppliers of top-tier firefighting equipment, fire protection systems, fire alarms, security and safety engineering systems worldwide – as strategic sponsor for Intersec 2023.

The fire industry exhibitors at Intersec 2023 span the entire spectrum of products and services in the industry, including alarm panels, smoke detection systems, extinguishers and firefighting foams, pumps and equipment, rescue equipment and hoses and nozzles, to name a few. Intersec really brings the global fire industry to Dubai, exhibitors come from around the world, such as Reliable and Potter from the USA, HD Fire and KV Fire from India, Detnov from Spain, Luke Alexander from Singapore and Coopers Fire and Reaction Fire from the UK. Of course, this is in addition to the many UAE based companies represented, including NAFFCO, Bristol Fire Engineering and Waterfall Pumps. In fact, around 70% of the industry’s global market leaders will be at Intersec 2023 – it really is the place to be to interact with the worldwide fire industry.

What networking opportunities will be available at this year’s event?

Networking is such an important part of any industry, and is particularly important in the Middle East region, where face-to-face business transactions are extremely important. Intersec 2023 provides a large number of networking opportunities, from the conference streams and meeting opportunities with more than 850 exhibitors present. Another key opportunity to interact with the whole industry will be at the Intersec Awards – a glittering gala dinner dedicated to celebrating success and innovation. Taking place during the evening on the second day of Intersec, Wednesday 18th January at the Ritz Carlton Dubai, the ceremony will recognise and reward the products and people in the industry for innovation, sustainability, commitment and achievement. With around 350 attendees expected for the celebration, it provides a collegiate yet professional platform for networking with industry peers. Tickets for the gala will go on sale soon – so I really recommend people don’t miss out

What are you most excited for as the event draws closer?

Oh, there is so much to be excited about at Intersec 2023. Personally, I am excited about many things but have to say that in particular, I am excited to see the growth of the show since the last edition. Intersec 2023 will be almost one and half times bigger than Intersec 2022 – I am thrilled to see that the industry’s appetite for large events is returning, now that it is possible safely. So I’m excited to welcome the global industry back to Dubai for sure.

I’m also excited about all the impressive demonstrations that will be at Intersec Dubai, like the Fire Fighter challenge and the Attack Zone, as well as the opportunities to hear from incredible key players at the conferences. The agendas for this year in all sectors are insightful, though provoking and focused on the challenges and opportunities of the GCC in particular.

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

NVFC opens registration for Regional Wildland Symposium

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has opened the registration for its inaugural Regional Wildland Symposium on March 17-18 in Box Elder, SD.

This wildland fire focused event will bring together fire and EMS personnel from across the region and country to participate in valuable classroom training and idea exchange. Space is limited.

The symposium will provide an opportunity to learn from interactive classroom training and share ideas and best practices with wildland firefighters and other stakeholders from across the Plains region.

Attendees will have their choice of breakout sessions to attend, with sessions addressing key topics in wildland fire mitigation and response.

The event registration fee of $129 covers two days of training with breakout sessions, keynote speakers, and general sessions, as well as a networking reception, vendor expo, and most meals.

To help more first responders attend, a travel stipend for NVFC members of up to $600 is available that will reimburse expenses related to the conference, including hotel, transportation, and the registration fee. The deadline to apply for a stipend is January 1. 

Five new features added to Intersec schedule

Visitors to the 24th Intersec, the world’s leading trade fair for safety, security, and fire protection which takes place from January 17-19 at Dubai World Trade Centre, will be able to access five new interactive features designed to improve engagement for professional attendees including: the Intersec Fire Fighters Challenge, Attack Zone, Safety Walk, Start Smart Zone, and Tech Stage.

“The features are designed to improve the overall visitor experience and engagement levels as well as heighten awareness and appreciation for all working in the safety, security, and fire protection services,” said Alex Nicholl, show director of Messe Frankfurt, organiser of Intersec.

Fire Fighters Challenge

Introducing friendly competition among the region’s firefighters, the Fire Fighters Challenge is being run in collaboration with the 911 Fighter Challenger and is supported by Dubai Civil Defence. Entrants will include firefighters from governments, civil defence, oil and gas, aviation, marine, and educational institutions across the GCC and Jordan, it will see the competitors showcase their real-life actions through entertaining stages, demonstrate their equipment in action, and draw attention to their extraordinary fitness levels.

Nicholl added: “The aim of the challenge is to create a meeting hub for security, fire service, and safety best practice in the Middle East, as well as creating public awareness of fire safety and protection, provide a platform for these unsung heroes to demonstrate their skills, challenge themselves to be fitter, stronger, and faster, and garner public appreciation for these vital members of society.”

Attack Zone

The Intersec Attack Zone, hosted by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), is where exhibitors will put their products to the ultimate test against breaching times and breakthrough limits in live-action demonstrations. The LPCB will assess competitors on its standards, and four British exhibitors – Barkers Fencing, Eagle Automation, Frontier Pitts, and Sunray – have already confirmed they will take up the challenge, among others.

Safety Walk

On day three of Intersec Dubai, DWTC’s Hall 2 will host the Safety Walk – a catwalk show of industrial safety gear where exhibitors will have 15 minutes to describe the features of their kit being modelled to an audience of fire and safety visitors, government officials, as well as construction and oil professionals. Six producers have signed up for the showcase, including Germany’s Draeger, the USA’s MSA Safety, UAE-based Safetix-securite and Raja International, the UK’s Centurion Safety Products, and Kivanc Group of Turkey.

Start Smart Zone

The Start Smart Zone will hand the spotlight over to all start-up exhibitors wanting to connect with key decision-makers, buyers, and investors, as well as garner support to scale-up their businesses.

Tech Stage

The Tech Stage meanwhile will run across all three days and will be where exhibitors will unveil breakthrough innovations, including virtual reality solutions, anti-drone technology, and newly formulated safety materials.

“When combined, these new features heighten the interactive aspect of Intersec, allowing exhibitors greater opportunities to demonstrate the USPs of their products and services, as well as take their business propositions direct to decision-makers,” Nicholl said.

More than 850 exhibitors from over 120 countries are participating at Intersec 2023, which will run more than 47,000 gross square-metres and provide industry professionals with access to 10,000 products across the complete security value chain.

The event takes place against findings of 6W Research, which recently forecasted the Middle East’s commercial security market will grow 16 per cent a year to reach a value of US$8.4 billion in 2025 and the region’s fire and safety sector will climb 7.5 per cent annually to US$16.76bn by 2026.

Advanced technological innovation will dominate the exhibition’s five key segments, namely: homeland security and policing, safety and security, cyber security, fire and rescue, commercial and perimeter security. Upwards of 30,000 security, emergency response, safety, and cybersecurity professionals are expected to attend.

Intersec 2023 will also feature a comprehensive conference stream with four dedicated segments including the Intersec Security Leaders’ Summit, Cybersecurity Conference, Fire & Rescue Conference and Safety & Health Seminars.

NEBOSH develops safety and health seminars for Intersec 2023

NEBOSH has partnered with industry experts to develop a day of safety and health seminars at the 2023 Intersec exhibition and conference in Dubai.

NEBOSH Day is set to take place on 18 January and feature sessions from senior health and safety leaders from the region. The topics covered include governance and leadership in HSE, managing HSE for mega projects and psychosocial risks.

The agenda will cover: What is world class safety leadership and how do you achieve it? with
Jim Andrews, Group Head of Health, Safety and Environment, Petrofac; Governance and Leadership in HSE with Dr Waddah Ghanem Al Hashmi, Chairman, Professional Engineering Chapter, UAE Society of Engineers; Social/technical paradigms in safety leadership with Salman Dawood Abdulla, Executive Vice President, HSSEQ and Business Transformation, EGA; Managing HSE for mega projects with Dr Rob Cooling, Executive Director of HSEQ, NEOM; a panel discussion: The changing role of the HSE Practitioner; Psychosocial risks: What are they and how do they contribute to sustainability? with Dee Arp, Chief Operating Officer, NEBOSH; What part should OSH professionals play in the creation of a socially sustainable business? with Andrew-Wilkinson-Sharpe, Acting Chief Executive, NEBOSH.

Andy Wilkinson-Sharpe, NEBOSH Acting Chief Executive, commented: “NEBOSH is delighted to have been given the opportunity to devise the health and safety programme for the 18 January at Intersec. We have made sure that “NEBOSH Day” will be of real value to delegates. Thank you to the senior health and safety leaders who have agreed to present and share their expertise and insights with our audience on the day.”

Speaker Dr Waddah S Ghanem Al Hashmi added: “I was very excited to be asked to be part of NEBOSH Day at Intersec here in Dubai. NEBOSH is an organisation that I have been associated with for nearly 15 years, and this is a great way for our collaboration to continue. I will be delivering a presentation on the recently approved UAE Standard “Occupational Health and Safety Management – Governance and Leadership Top Management requirements for UAE.S ISO 45001:2019” UAE.S 5052:2022 which encourages and supports a more proactive approach when it comes to health and safety. I am looking forward to being involved and learning and exchanging ideas with colleagues on the 18 January.”

Intersec takes place from 17-19 January 2023 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. NEBOSH will be exhibiting on stand 2-D37.