Fire Industry Association promotes free entries for the 2023 Security & Fire Excellence Awards

by EventsFeatured News

The Fire Industry Association has urged interested parties to make use of the final opportunity to submit free entries for the 2023 Security & Fire Excellence Awards.

The deadline for these entries is set for September 4, 2023.

The benefits of entering the awards

Participation in the Security & Fire Excellence Awards offers a chance for companies to highlight excellence, acknowledge standout performers, and share best practices within the industry.

Additionally, entering could provide companies with a platform for PR exposure and a chance to impress clients and peers.

The association has emphasised that companies should review the full list of categories and criteria, submitting entries for all relevant categories.

This would potentially increase the chances of earning multiple accolades.

Assured fairness in the judging process

The Fire Industry Association has reiterated that their judging process is transparent and unbiased.

The judging process has received validation from The Independent Awards Standards Council, acquiring the Awards Trust Mark.

This ensures that each entry will undergo thorough evaluation by an independent panel of experts, ensuring fairness in the selection process.

Last call for entry submissions

With the entry deadline looming in just three weeks, businesses are reminded to finalise their submissions.

For those interested in participating, the form is available here.

Support available for entries

For companies seeking assistance with their submissions, the organisation has partnered with Agility PR.

Agility PR has expertise in content creation and PR, particularly in the security sector – more information on this service can be found here.

A grand evening to look forward to

The Security & Fire Excellence Awards ceremony is scheduled for December 4, 2023, at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London.

This event not only honours industry excellence but also provides a platform for networking and celebrating with peers.

To book a place or find out more about the venue, visit the official website.

IFSJ Comment

The annual Security & Fire Excellence Awards, hosted by the Fire Industry Association, plays a pivotal role in promoting best practices, innovation, and dedication within the fire and safety sectors.

Recognising achievements not only fuels motivation within organisations but also sets benchmarks for excellence.

Such events foster community spirit, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts.

This year’s call for entries and the support offered for participants showcases the commitment of the association towards inclusivity and unbiased recognition of talent.

Announcing the 2023 Fire Chiefs of the Year recipients

by AmericasEventsFeatured News

Pierce and IAFC recognise outstanding Fire Chiefs

In collaboration with Pierce Manufacturing, the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) unveiled the 2023 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year honourees.

The awards ceremony took place at Fire-Rescue International in Kansas City, Missouri, on 16 August.

Volunteer and Career Fire Chiefs celebrated since 1996

Since its inception in 1996, the IAFC annually honours both a volunteer and a career fire chief.

A specially chosen committee by the IAFC evaluates nominations.

The criteria for the accolades encompass significant contributions in leadership, innovation, professional growth, integrity, and public service.

This year, Volunteer Fire Chief Thomas Bell of the Greensburg Volunteer Fire Department in Pennsylvania and Career Fire Chief Brian Fennessy of the Orange County Fire Authority in California received the awards.

On this special occasion, Bob Schulz, president of Pierce Manufacturing, stated: “We are honoured to celebrate the commitment and dedication of these outstanding fire service leaders.

“Chief Fennessy and Chief Bell are more than just fire service professionals: they are community pillars and mentors for future generations.

“Pierce Manufacturing is proud to acknowledge their irreplaceable contributions.”

Spotlight on Volunteer Fire Chief – Thomas Bell

Having dedicated over 30 years to fire service, Chief Thomas Bell’s leadership is characterised by hard work and result-driven strategies.

Chief Bell’s tenure marked a significant time in the Greensburg Volunteer Fire Department’s evolution.

Under his direction, the department underwent a transformative phase, prioritising teamwork, skill, and foundational values.

He introduced the ‘Dignity Statement’ policy, which highlights mutual respect and zero tolerance for harassment and bullying.

Such a policy, reinforced by mandatory training, resonated deeply within the community.

Among his other achievements are the rejuvenation of the Junior Firefighter Program which saw a surge in participation, igniting a renewed passion for service among veteran firefighters

Operational enhancements, including: The Red X Program to identify hazardous buildings; A nightly rotating Command Officer shift; Post-fire laundry services for bunker gear; and compulsory radio command and protocol training.

Highlighting Career Fire Chief – Brian Fennessy

Chief Brian Fennessy’s nearly fifty-year career stands testament to his innovative leadership in the fire service realm.

His journey began as a helitack captain for the U.S. Forest Service, leading him to prestigious roles, including that of the fire chief for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and most recently the OCFA.

Chief Fennessy’s vast contributions span incident response, firefighter health, diversity, and grant activity.

His recent securing of significant funding for the Wildland Hand Crew Station and vegetation management initiatives underscores his forward-looking vision.

Notably, the Fire Integrated Real-Time Intelligence System (FIRIS), initiated in 2017, stands out among his projects.

Thanks to the success of FIRIS, it gained $30 million state funding last year, marking it a crucial tool for wildfire intelligence in California.

A few more of his achievements include: Launching the Quick Reaction Force in partnership with Southern California Edison; Initiating various initiatives at OCFA, emphasising diversity and health; Receiving accolades like Fire Chief of the Year by the California Fire Chiefs Association; and being named as one of the nation’s “Top 25 Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers”.

Both Chiefs Thomas Bell and Brian Fennessy’s extraordinary dedication and vision make them fitting recipients of the 2023 IAFC Fire Chief of the Year award.

For additional details about Pierce Manufacturing and the IAFC Fire Chief of the Year award, kindly visit their official site.

IFSJ Comment

Recognising the accomplishments of individuals who make significant strides in fire safety provides an opportunity for reflection and inspiration.

The annual Fire Chief of the Year award is more than just an accolade – it’s a testament to the evolving nature of the fire safety profession.

By acknowledging the exceptional efforts of individuals like Chiefs Thomas Bell and Brian Fennessy, we offer a glimpse into the future of fire safety, shaped by innovation, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

About Pierce Manufacturing

Pierce Manufacturing, a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation, is a renowned name in the fire apparatus industry.

With a legacy of innovation and reliability, Pierce is committed to delivering top-tier fire and rescue apparatus, underpinned by unrivalled customer support and service.

Their collaboration with institutions like the IAFC exemplifies their commitment to supporting and uplifting the fire safety community globally.

Webinar examines firefighter stress and explosive anger

by EventsFeatured NewsTraining

Firefighter stress and intimate partner aggression: A webinar insight

Today, 9th August at 10am PST (6:00 PM in London), the Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA) is hosting a seminar on firefighter stress and how it can affect marital relationships.

The seminar, titled ‘Firefighter Stress and Explosive Anger: The Impact on Marriage,’ is part of the FSPA 2023 Webinar Series.

The webinar is accessible via this link.

Detailed exploration of clinical practices for firefighter stress

Dr. Erica Birkley will present the seminar, which aims to review research on intimate partner aggression (IPA) perpetration prevalence.

It will focus on processes that predict for whom and under what circumstances IPA is most likely to occur.

The discussion will include best clinical practices for when it is ethical to use couple therapy as a treatment mechanism.

Specifically, adaptations and cultural competence in delivering couple therapy and assessing IPA risk among firefighter/paramedics will be covered.

Legal documentation and reporting requirements, as well as court cases and ethics for psychologists, will be extensively discussed.

A mock clinical case to address firefighter stress and treatment strategies

The training will conclude with a firefighter/paramedic mock clinical case.

Participants will elaborate on their goals for assessment, clinical treatment plan formation, documentation, consultation, and reporting strategies.

This mock example will include dual role considerations and an ethical dilemma to provide more in-depth training and reflection.

Psychologists attending the full session will be awarded 1 CE credit.

The fee for this session is $25.

IFSJ Comment

This seminar from the FSPA brings to the forefront a critical subject that often remains unaddressed.

By focusing on firefighter stress and its consequences on personal relationships, it encourages open dialogue and provides valuable insights into professional treatment strategies.

The offering of a practical case scenario further enhances the understanding of handling such complex issues, making this a relevant and timely topic for our readership.

SFPE announces speakers for the Engineering Solutions Symposium

by Building ManagementConstructionEventsFeatured NewsSustainability

Symposium to explore fire safety in sustainable design

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has invited professionals to the SFPE Engineering Solutions Symposium for Fire Safety and Sustainable Building Design. Hosted in collaboration with FRISSBE, the event is scheduled to be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on November 29-30, 2023.

The symposium will delve into design concepts, tools, and methods for creating fire-safe buildings.

In addition, it will highlight the role of fire safety in sustainable design and education.

Experts will share engineering solutions on subjects such as sustainable building design, reduction of embodied carbon, fire performance of sustainable construction materials, fire testing, and building information modeling (BIM).

Keynote speakers and program details, including SFPE’s commitment to sustainability

Opening remarks will be delivered by SFPE President Jimmy Jönsson, who will focus on SFPE’s commitment to engineering a sustainable and fire resilient built environment.

Symposium Co-Chairs Brian Meacham and Grunde Jomaas, along with SFPE Interim CEO Chris Jelenewicz, will also offer opening remarks.

The full program includes presentations on designing for sustainability and fire safety, gaps in science, policy, and legislation, and the impact of fire in the context of sustainability.

The symposium will include panel discussions on the role of fire safety in sustainable design, fire safety challenges of sustainable technologies, and the role of timber in a sustainable built environment.

Registration, sponsorship, and collaboration with SFPE

Partnership with FRISSBE and support from Danfoss Fire Safety and Evox has made this symposium possible.

Limited sponsorships and exhibit opportunities are still available.

Early-bird registration discounts are offered until October 27.

For further information or to register for the symposium, visit the official website.

About the Engineering Solutions Symposium for Fire Safety and Sustainable Building Design

As environmental challenges rise globally, the construction industry is prioritising the creation of sustainable buildings that are energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and socially responsible.

The 2-day event in Slovenia will focus on how sustainable design principles can be applied without reducing fire safety.

SFPE and FRISSBE have assembled a panel of experts to share knowledge on subjects such as sustainable building design, fire testing, and holistic building performance design.

IFSJ Comment

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers’ commitment to sustainability, coupled with their exploration of fire safety in the context of environmentally responsible building practices, brings vital insights to the industry.

By offering an opportunity for professionals to engage with leading experts, the symposium promises to provide a platform for sharing best practices, research, and engineering solutions.

The integration of fire safety measures into sustainable building design is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants and the environment.

Details for the 22nd International Water Mist Conference are now available

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Suppression

The upcoming International Water Mist Conference set to commence this October in Copenhagen

The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) has announced that the 22nd International Water Mist Conference will be held in Copenhagen, Denmark.

This prestigious event is scheduled to take place on 11th and 12th October 2023.

The chosen venue for the conference is the reputable Copenhagen Marriott Hotel.

An exhibition is set to run in tandem with the conference. All details of the conference, including the programme, can now be accessed on the official IWMA webpage.

Two-day International Water Mist Conference to focus on systems in practice and research and testing

The first day of the conference, which can be separately booked, will focus on presentations dealing with water mist systems in practice.

The subsequent day will primarily be devoted to research and testing.

Notably, the presentation of the IWMA Young Talent Award winner of the year will also be conducted on the second day.

Variety of presentations at the International Water Mist Conference cover complex water mist system discussions

In total, the conference programme includes twelve presentations and a panel discussion titled “Water Mist Systems – simple or (too) complex?”.

Panelists and speakers come from a diverse range of countries including Chile, The Netherlands, Poland, and Germany.

For those interested in the content of the presentations, the abstracts are available on the IWMA webpage under the section ‘conference papers’.

The early bird period for registrations is open until 15th August. The registration tool will subsequently be closed on 6th October at noon (CEST).

IFSJ Comment

With the annual International Water Mist Conference approaching, there’s an evident buzz within the fire and safety industry.

The conference serves as a key platform for professionals to share and gain insights on the latest advancements in water mist systems, and with the addition of the IWMA Young Talent Award, it also highlights the important role of upcoming professionals in shaping the future of this industry.

Fire Industry Association AGM and Annual Lunch tickets on sale now

by EventsFeatured News

Fire Industry Association’s key industry gathering set for November 2023

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has declared that tickets for its 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Lunch are now on sale.

FIA members to receive comprehensive updates at AGM

On Thursday 9th November, the AGM and Annual Lunch will be held at The Brewery, London.

The AGM is designed as a prime opportunity for FIA members to receive the most recent updates on the organisation.

Key insights will be shared by FIA Board of Directors and secretariat members in a 2-hour session.

They will update attendees about the association’s accomplishments, current projects, and future plans.

Each member company is limited to two representatives due to space constraints.

The AGM is free, but booking is required and is exclusive to FIA members.

Annual lunch promises networking opportunities and entertainment

The Annual Lunch, a key event in the fire safety calendar, is expected to draw over 500 leading industry professionals.

This event provides an opportunity for a three-course meal and entertainment. This year, the FIA is also organising a post-lunch networking event at The Brewery until 22:00.

The space allows for both casual and business conversations in a relaxed environment.

Tickets for the lunch are priced at £200+VAT per individual or £1,750+VAT for a table of ten. F

IA members interested in sponsorships to increase brand exposure can contact the events team at events@fia.uk.com.

The provisional agenda for the AGM and Annual Lunch is as follows:

  • 09.45- 12:00 FIA AGM (For Members only)
  • 12.00-13.30 Drinks reception
  • 13.30-15.00 Lunch
  • 15.00-16:00 Award presentations and after-dinner speaker
  • 17:00-22:00 Networking drinks

Members are encouraged to book their seats now, while non-members have been urged to join the FIA to attend the AGM.

IFSJ Comment

The FIA AGM and Annual Lunch provides a platform for industry professionals to exchange insights, build relationships and stay up-to-date with developments within the Fire Industry Association.

About the Fire Industry Association

The FIA is the largest fire protection trade association in the UK. It promotes the highest standards of professional competence and ethics within the fire industry. The FIA also influences legislation and provides an essential communication link between its members, the government, and key organisations within the industry.

Fire protection and rescue expo makes its way to Kielce

by EventsFeatured News

The city of Kielce in Poland is set to host the International Fire Protection & Rescue Exhibition (KIELCE IFRE-EXPO) later this month.

The event features a range of presentations, training, and competitions with an emphasis on fire services and safety.

A showcase of global fire service innovations

The KIELCE IFRE-EXPO, held from 15th to 17th June, will witness the participation of 135 exhibitors from eight countries including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, and Turkey.

Leading industry players like FIRE-MAX, MOTO-TRUCK, BOCAR, ROSENBAUER, and more will be presenting their latest firefighting vehicles and equipment to attendees.

Shows and conferences

Visitors can look forward to shows by the State Fire Services and other unique presentations such as “rescue operations” by Little Firemen from Stąporków and a rescue dogs show by the Special Rescue Group of the OSP Nowy Sącz.

The expo also plays host to the National Fire Services’ Commanders Briefing featuring Voivodeship, Municipal, and Poviat Headquarters. A conference organised by the State Fire Service is slated for the second day of the exhibition.

Firefighter competitions

The event also offers a competitive element, with State Fire Services vying for the title of the ‘Toughest Firefighter’ on the second day of the expo. The competition agenda includes individual, tandem, and relay challenges.

On the last day of the KIELCE IFRE-EXPO, a competition for Teams of Volunteer Fire Brigades will be held. Further enhancing the visitor experience, the cfbt.pl foundation and the GTD – Grupa Treningowa Dolny Śląsk [Lower Silesia Drill Squad] are preparing several attractions.

For more information, visit the official site at KIELCE IFRE-EXPO.

Innovation to take centre stage at 2023 Emergency Services Show

by EventsFeatured News

The Emergency Services Show (ESS) returns on 19-20 September 2023 with an important focus on the latest developments and technologies crucial to the fire and safety industry. The show is set to host professionals and leaders from all emergency services at the NEC, Birmingham. Registration for this major event is now open at www.emergencyuk.com.

This year’s event will take place in Halls 4 and 5, co-located with the newly introduced Emergency Tech Show. The Tech Show is expected to bring to the fore new technological advancements and solutions including digital transformation tools, control room solutions, and use of AI for predictive emergency response and resource allocation, all of which are of considerable interest to fire and safety professionals.

“The pace of innovation and change for today’s emergency services is truly impressive,” says Event Director David Brown. “There is no better place to discover the latest new equipment, resources, methods, and practices than The Emergency Services Show.”

Leading brands in attendance

With over 550 leading brands in attendance, the event promises to offer an opportunity to explore new products and technology from renowned names such as Dräger, Stryker, Venari, GoodSAM, Ramco UK, SAAB, YPO, Vimpex, Excelerate, Dataminr, Sure Antennas, Emergency One, and many more.

The 2023 edition of the show introduces a new segment, the Road Safety Zone. This dedicated focus area will address significant emerging issues for the sector, particularly the challenges associated with incidents involving electric vehicles (EVs), including battery fires. West Midlands Fire Service will host the Extrication and Trauma Challenges, providing live demonstrations of the latest technology and equipment in action.

The Resilience and Recovery Theatre and networking lounge, hosted by the Emergency Planning Society, will focus on resilience planning, preparedness, and recovery. “Resilience and preparedness have never been more important for our emergency services after recent events,” says David Brown.

Seminar programme

The ESS seminar programme will feature an impressive lineup of speakers offering valuable insights, practical guidance, and continuing professional development (CPD) accredited sessions. The Policing Theatre at ESS will align with the objectives outlined in the Strategic Policing Board’s recently published Policing Vision 2030 statement.

The College of Paramedics will conduct 30-minute CPD workshops aimed at paramedics of all experience levels, providing practical knowledge and skill enhancement opportunities.

The Lessons Learned Leaders’ Summit, another major highlight, will cover important learnings from significant past events. Furthermore, the Health & Wellbeing Theatre will address physical and mental health challenges faced by emergency responders.

A revamped Collaboration Zone will host emergency services, voluntary groups, charities, and NGOs to promote co-response and partnership initiatives. The event will also offer extensive networking opportunities, culminating in networking drinks on the first day in the Hall 5 Networking Café.

How to register for the Emergency Services Show

Visit www.emergencyuk.com to register for the Emergency Services Show 2023. Entry and parking at the NEC are both free, and the venue is conveniently connected to Birmingham International Station and Birmingham Airport.

SiteNet from Bull Products to be displayed at Safety & Health Expo

by EventsFeatured News


Bull Products, a leading provider of temporary fire protection solutions, has announced its participation in the upcoming Safety & Health Expo, the UK’s largest event for health and safety. The event will be held at ExCeL, London from 16th-18th May 2023, and Bull Products will be exhibiting its latest products at stand SH.1410.

Visitors to the Bull Products stand can expect to see the company’s latest innovative products, including the new wireless and EN54 certified SiteNet range, designed to offer a scalable and robust solution for temporary projects. The range comprises a control panel and six different fire call point, detection, and alarm devices with multiple configurations and settings, as well as first aid alert functionality.

Bull Products will also be showcasing its range of First Responder Stations, which have been designed specifically for construction sites. The stations are available in five standard options, including Fire Safety, First Aid, Spill Control, Rail and Work At Height, each of which can be customized to suit the customer’s requirements.

Matthew Trigwell, Sales Director at Bull Products, said: “We’re looking forward to exhibiting at the Safety & Health Expo this year. As a company committed to providing innovative and reliable safety products, the show is the perfect platform for us to showcase our latest offerings and connect with other industry professionals who share our passion for creating safer workplaces.”

In addition to its products, Bull Products will also highlight its comprehensive Fire 360° service, which has been developed to handle the intricacies of fire safety and ensure the team is on-hand to oversee and advise customers throughout their journey. The service guarantees a friction-free experience at every stage of the 15-step process, from initial enquiry through to final installation.

Read IFSJ’s pre-show coverage of FIREX, which takes place alongside the Safety & Health Expo at ExCeL London, on page 60 of our latest issue.

ROCKWOOL to preview latest products at FIREX 2023

by EventsFeatured News

Insulation manufacturer ROCKWOOL is set to showcase its latest fire protection solutions at FIREX 2023 which takes place from 16-18 May at ExCel London.

The company will be launching a new product, SP FireStop EN, and previewing the FirePro Detail Designer, a new tool designed to help specifiers and fire engineers access the correct ROCKWOOL standard details for their project.

Visitors to the ROCKWOOL stand (FI. 1640) will see the new SP FireStop EN product in person, alongside other FirePro fire stopping solutions as part of real wall build-ups.

Technical support from ROCKWOOL passive fire protection experts will be readily available for customers who have questions or require assistance.

Additionally, visitors can request Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions to gain further knowledge about the products and their applications.

SP FireStop EN

ROCKWOOL is broadening its existing FirePro® range by introducing SP FireStop EN, a linear cavity fire stopping solution that comes with a novel high emissivity black foil facing.

The new product expands the application possibilities offered by ROCKWOOL, delivering superior EI120 performance for cavities measuring up to 600mm*. The product has been subjected to rigorous testing against Steel Frame Substrates to ensure its suitability.

FirePro Detail Designer

ROCKWOOL also has plans to showcase its forthcoming FirePro Detail Designer during the show and is inviting attendees to share their thoughts on this interactive design tool, which is currently under development.

The tool is intended to aid specifiers and fire engineers in choosing the best ROCKWOOL FirePro products for their needs. By analysing project requirements, the app will suggest an appropriate specification based on a pre-existing and tested standard detail, thereby simplifying the manual process of reviewing ROCKWOOL standard details.

Paul Barrett, the Head of Product Management at ROCKWOOL UK, commented: “FIREX presents an excellent opportunity for us to present our latest passive fire protection solutions. Our priority has always been to invest in product development and enhance our current product lineup. The SP FireStop EN is an upgraded version of our existing fire stopping product, designed to provide greater emissivity and suitability for a wider range of applications.”

About ROCKWOOL UK

ROCKWOOL Limited, a member of the ROCKWOOL Group, operates with one factory located in Bridgend, South Wales and has a workforce of over 500 individuals spread throughout the UK. The company provides a complete range of sustainable and high-performing insulation products catering to the construction industry in the local area.

The group has expertise in dealing with various challenges relating to sustainability and development, such as energy consumption, noise pollution, fire resilience, water scarcity, and flooding. The product portfolio reflects the diverse needs of the world while supporting stakeholders in reducing their carbon footprint.

The company’s businesses are founded on the use of versatile stone wool material. With over 11,000 skilled employees located in 39 countries worldwide, ROCKWOOL is the industry leader in stone wool solutions that include building insulation, acoustic ceilings, external cladding systems, horticultural solutions, engineered fibres for industrial applications, and insulation for the process industry and marine & offshore.