Rosenbauer to present Fireboat for Wildland Firefighting at INTERSCHUTZ

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Firefighting vehicle manufacturer Rosenbauer is set to show off its jet-powered rescue and fireboat, developed in collaboration with PALFINGER MARINE, at INTERSCHUTZ in Hannover, Germany later this month.

The boat is designed for fire departments to fight forest fires near the coast or shore from the water, providing an advantage wherever the scene of the fire is difficult to access over land or access with forest fire vehicles is not possible.

It can also serve as a rescue vehicle of choice when people have to be rescued from beaches because a burning forest edge has reached the coast or shore and is blocking the escape route over land.

The fireboat is equipped with the Rosenbauer N55 high-performance pump, which has a capacity of up to 5,500 l/min at 10 bar, and is also suitable for use with seawater due to the robust, corrosion-resistant design.

In addition, the boat can be connected to the Rosenbauer operations management system RDS Connected Command allowing integration into the central mission command and making it visible to all responders, also enabling the boat crew to be provided with mission-relevant information in the same way as their colleagues in the vehicles on land.

The new fireboat from Rosenbauer and PALFINGER  is made of seawater-resistant aluminum (marine grade aluminum), is 8.50 m long and 3.10 m wide and has a jet drive (water jet propulsion) with which it can reach a speed of up to 38 knots (approx. 70 km/h). The jet drive is powered by two 6-cylinder diesel engines, each with an output of 215 kW (292 hp). Three crew members are usually on the boat, up to 12 additional people can be transported.

The vehicle will be presented for the first time at INTERSCHUTZ 2022 from June 20-25 June in Hanover (Hall 27/Booth B58) as part of the Rosenbauer forest fire exhibition alongside various forest fire vehicles and personal protective equipment.

Three join NFPA board of directors

by Featured NewsPeople

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has completed the election of its Board of Directors at its Annual Meeting on June 6, 2022, which includes three new members: “Butch” Browning, Adrián Gallardo Landeros, and Mark Ghilarducci. Patrick Morrison was re-elected for his second three-year term.

Browning served as the Louisiana State Fire Marshal since 2008 and on the NASFM (National Association of State Fire Marshals) Board of Directors for the last 12 years. With more than 35 years in the fire service, He will assume the role of Executive Director of NASFM July 1st.

Landeros has served as the general director of Servicios de Información Estratégica, S.C. for the last 20 years. During his career, he has provided professional advice and consulting services to 12 Mexican state governors, legislative bodies, and several federal ministries. He has also coordinated or co-authored more than 20 books on Mexican economic and political issues.

Ghilarducci, serves as the Director of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) within the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom. Prior to his appointments at Cal OES and FEMA, he served as deputy state fire chief at Cal OES. He also has more than 30 years of experience in public safety and government management at the local, state, and federal levels.

Morrison, the Assistant to the General President for Occupational Health, Safety and Medicine at IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters), was elected to his second three-year term.

Previously, the Board elected a slate of officers that includes Russell Leavitt as chair, R. David Paulison as first vice chair, John Bonney as second vice chair, Roger Montembeault as secretary, Donald Cook as assistant secretary, Michael Wallace as treasurer, Stacy Welch as assistant treasurer, and Amy Acton as immediate past chair.

Lifesavers’ Connect Hub opens at Kallang Fire Station

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The Lifesavers’ Connect Hub (LCH) at Kallang Fire Station, Singapore, was officially opened by Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development on 31 May 2022.

As part of Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF)’s vision to build ‘A Nation of Lifesavers’, SCDF aims to equip one million persons with lifesaving skills by 2025. To achieve this, SCDF has established the Lifesavers’ Connect (LC) Network to increase public engagement and increase the training touchpoints for our community to learn emergency preparedness (EP) skills.

The LC Network will consist of LC Zones at SCDF fire posts and at fire stations , LC Centres at Division Headquarters and brought together by the LCH.

The LCH at Kallang Fire Station will host volunteer leadership development programmes and dialogues at free of charge to further educate SCDF volunteer leaders beyond lifesaving skills. The programmes are designed to benefit volunteers to ensure they are able to carry out their roles meaningfully with SCDF and allow them to function as well-rounded volunteers.

The integrated LCH at Hill Street will house the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery, the Emergency Preparedness Centre and a leadership development space. The LCH will serve as a focal point for all Lifesavers in the community to step up as a volunteer to conduct ground-up collaborative projects and initiatives relating to EP. Through the LCH, partnerships among all partners and volunteers will be forged. Through this dedicated premises, volunteers will be able to interact and exchange knowledge with one another to equip themselves with EP skills and build resilience in facing emergencies as a community.

 Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, commented: “With the opening of the Lifesavers’ Connect Hub, volunteer leaders can come together to share knowledge and experience with one another, creating and implementing valuable emergency preparedness projects. The programmes at the Lifesavers’ Connect Hub will also hone the leadership skills of our volunteers.”

County Durham Fire Service a ‘forerunner’ for National Operations Guidance

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The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has dubbed County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service (CDDFRS) a national forerunner for implementing National Operational Guidance into its organisation.

CDDFRS seconded Station Manager Ian Moore to the NFCC during the development of National Operational Guidance. During this time, Moore worked closely with fire services from across the UK and gained a thorough understanding of how to implement and embed National Operational Guidance into his Service when he returned.

The department has been actively rooted into their Northeast regional working group which includes three other services and has worked to improve collaboration and ease the burdens of implementing National Operational Guidance on each of the respective organisations.

On a wider scale, it has directly engaged with around 28 other fire and rescue services from across the UK to share their experiences, documentation and strategic framework, ensuring that they are helping to drive the Fire Reform agenda across the sector and not just on a local level. 

Once CDDFRS completed its implementation, it put in place mechanisms to ensure the ongoing maintenance of risk assessments, procedures, and training packages as part of its business as usual. Since the project finished front line staff have commented that they find it easy to access the information needed to ensure an effective operational response to incidents.

The NFCC Implementation Team identified that the practice of sharing experience would help to move the fire and rescue sector forward and has now signposted other services to contact CDDFRS and share good practice nationally, hoping to establish a more efficient integration into many other services through shared experiential learning and National Operational Guidance good practice.

The NFCC Implementation Team said that the efforts of CDDFRS, in actively sharing their National Operational Guidance outcomes and their journey, has been instrumental in some fire and rescue services keeping pace with reforms across both operations and fire control, and that its willingness to help others is to be applauded.

Fire Brigades Union calls on Government to rethink PEEPs decision

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsIndustry Sectors

The Fire Brigades Union has written to the UK government, asking decision makers to rethink the rejection of a key Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendation concerning the evacuation of disabled residents of high-rise buildings.

The inquiry recommended that “that the owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to prepare personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs)” for all disabled residents.

In May, however, the government rejected the recommendation and revealed downgraded plans, which has been meet with criticism from both Grenfell campaigners and disability rights campaigners.

In a letter to Lord Greenhalgh dated 6 June 2022, Minister of State for Building Safety, Fire and Communities, Matt Wrack, Fire Brigades Union general secretary wrote that the FBU was ‘disappointed’ with the Westminster government’s decision to downgrade work towards ensuring residents with disabilities are provided with Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)

The letter read: “The [government] statement claims that implementation would involve significant issues with practicality, proportionality and safety. The FBU argues that resident safety is paramount, so there is a greater safety issue in declining to implement PEEPs. As for proportionality, the Inquiry has found the introduction of PEEPs to be a proportionate strategy, and the FBU agrees.

“Some reasons given for the refusal seem poorly evidenced, for example stating that if a PEEP advised the purchase of an evacuation chair, there would be an “impact on the good relations between disabled residents and non-disabled residents if disproportionate costs were passed on to the latter. Building owners should carry the costs.”

“The government’s decision is a negative, backward step, and the FBU stands with disability campaigners, the Grenfell campaign groups and the LGA in asking you to reconsider.”

Bollé Safety launches protective eyewear for first responders

by Featured NewsProducts

In a strategic move, protective eyewear manufacturer Bollé Safety has created a new division dedicated to the tactical market: Bollé Safety Standard Issue. The company is set to present its complete product range adapted to different professions, including first responders and special forces, at Eurostory’s trade show being held in Paris this month.

Bollé Safety has focused its expertise on the development of ballistic glasses and goggles in order to provide first responders and tactical interveners with the eye protection, designed to counter all risks related to the eyes in dangerous situations.

Among the key features of Bollé Safety Standard Issue range is the brand’s Platinum anti-fog and anti-scratch coating, which gives the lens resistance even in the most extreme environments. The coating is applied on both sides of the lens to provide maximum protection for the eyes and ensure clear vision in all conditions. In addition, all lenses are made of polycarbonate, a material of choice for safety glasses because of its resistance to scratches and impact.

The manufacturer has developed a range of sic protective glasses which, depending on the lenses, are suitable for various uses, including smoke lenses which are better at filtering UVA and UVB (99.9%), recommended for professionals who often work outdoors, clear lenses for use indoors and offer a 90% visible light transmission rate, and copper lenses which are suited for all activities requiring alternating exposure to high and low light.

The complete range of protective eyewear is designed for tactical and first responders environments and complies with international safety standards such as ANSI, AS/NZS and the current European standard for eye protection EN166. Each Bollé Safety Standard Issue product is tested and certified by independent laboratories to ensure impeccable quality.

Peter Smith, CEO of Bollé Safety, commented: “With the Bollé Safety Standard Issue brand, our priority is to develop ballistic glasses and goggles that combine comfort, style and protection allowing these professionals to concentrate on their high-risk jobs.”

Intertek and Knauf launch programme to improve fire safety standards

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

Total Quality Assurance provider Intertek has announced a partnership with a leading manufacturer of building materials, Knauf, to launch a training programme for contractors, installers and professionals.

The programme is the first to offer Intertek Qualified Personnel (IQP) courses for drywall installers in the Gulf Corporate Council (GCC) region, and it is an extension of Intertek’s global initiative to independently qualify personnel to the highest industry standards.

The qualification programme is designed for technical professionals in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain and is delivered in the new Knauf Training Centre. Hundreds of professionals from the region are expected to complete this qualification every year, where they will learn how to optimise installation efficiency, how to reduce wastage and apply best practice to all installations in line with fire safety requirements.

The training programme expands on Knauf’s education and examination programme for the installation of its systems, certified by Intertek for compliance with international fire standards. 

Intertek’s IQP Programme increases the proficiency of participating installers and inspectors in installation practices, to ensure that their work is at the highest level of quality and safety assurance. Qualified professionals will be required to undergo a refresher training session every two years to maintain their qualification. The IQP Programme also gives relevant authorities independent assurance that the installations meet all industry requirements and have been carried out by qualified professionals. 

Amer Bin Ahmed, Managing Director at Knauf Middle East, said: “We are very pleased to offer IQP accredited courses in partnership with Intertek at the new Knauf Training Centre. The new programmes will ensure higher quality and safety standards for buildings, enable us to continue our vision for Quality, Sustainability, Health, and Safety, and train professionals with excellence through a growing range of courses.

“The new partnership with Intertek will improve skills and knowledge through accredited qualifications. This initiative will help to create and retain a greater talent pool for the overall industry and to set a high standard for the region when it comes to professional training.”

Cristina Perez Domper, Regional Operations Manager at Intertek Building & Construction for Middle East & Africa, said: “Partnering with an industry leader like Knauf to set up an IQP Programme is a significant step for Intertek in the region.

“We are very excited about launching the first IQP Programme of its kind in the region, and we look forward to expanding our network of certified programmes. This collaboration will elevate the standards for the industry and add an extra level of verification and qualification to the installation process, a key step which is often overlooked, in line with the increasing fire safety regulations implemented by authorities.”

Jean-Philippe Kayl, Vice-President Global Certification at Intertek, added: “Knauf’s commitment to excellence is truly impressive. Intertek is delighted to support Knauf in its journey to implement world-class quality and safety practices in the construction industry.”

NVFC mourns passing of legislative chief Dave Finger

by Featured NewsPeople

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has announced the passing of chief of legislative and regulatory affairs Dave Finger, who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on 3 June.

“Dave was a true asset to the NVFC and a friend to all who knew him,” said NVFC CEO Sarah Lee. “Whether working on legislation, answering difficult inquiries, advising the board, or any number of other tasks, he was a respected voice people listened to and learned from. He faced his cancer battle just like he did everything else in his life – with strength, dignity, and his signature humor. It is with the heaviest of hearts that we say goodbye to Dave, but his memory, legacy, and the impact of his work will live on.”

NVFC’s official statement said that Finger dedicated his career to utilising political advocacy to make a difference and impact positive change for the fire and emergency services community. He received his bachelor’s degree in political economy at Michigan State University and his master’s degree in legislative affairs from The George Washington University. Prior to joining the NVFC, he was the lead staffer on first responder issues for the Research and Technology Subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives Science, Space, and Technology Committee.

During his tenure at NFVC, he tackled many issues to represent the interests of volunteer responders on Capitol Hill, with regulatory agencies, and as NVFC staff liaison for 20 NFPA standards-setting committees. He also facilitated numerous NVFC board committees as well as the EMS/Rescue Section. The NVFC staff and board routinely sought his advice and expertise on governmental and regulatory matters. He brought a depth of knowledge and insight to his role that resulted in numerous victories for the volunteer. He was always ready to step up to a challenge and was skilled at working with other groups and organisations to amplify messages and make the biggest impact.

New Fire Standard ‘Emergency Preparedness and Resilience’ launched

by Featured NewsSafety

The Fire Standards Board (FSB) has launched the eleventh professional Fire Standard; Emergency Preparedness and Resilience, which focuses on ensuring fire and rescue service are prepared to respond to major incidents and large-scale emergencies or disruptive challenges.

The FSB has said it hopes the Emergency Preparedness and Resilience Fire Standard is that services will contribute effectively to national resilience requirements and have suitable and sufficient access to resources and assets to support response to local, regional and national scale emergencies.

The development of the standard was led by CFO Phil Garrigan of Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, who oversee National Resilience Capabilities on behalf of the Home Office, and NFCC Lead for Local Resilience Forums, Stuart Errington. It was also supported by Business Continuity and national and local resilience practitioners from across a wide range of services, and the Home Office and Cabinet Office.

One of the expected benefits of achieving the Standard is that members of the public will be reassured that their fire and rescue service is resilient, prepared and able to respond to emergencies while maintaining its critical functions during a disruptive event.

As with all Fire Standards, there’s a corresponding Fire Standards Implementation Tool to support services with the implementation. The tool was designed to support services in assessing how well they meet the standard; helping them to build an action plan to identify and address any gaps.

Chair of the Fire Standards Board, Suzanne McCarthy said: “The Board welcomes the launch of the new Emergency Preparedness and Resilience Fire Standard and recognises the contribution it will bring to fire and rescue services and the communities they serve. The standard builds on our increasing portfolio of professional Fire Standards.”

Fire Minister Lord Greenhalgh said: “I am delighted to see the launch of the Emergency Preparedness and Resilience Fire Standard. This standard will help ensure consistency in how fire and rescue services prepare for and respond to major incidents and emergencies, and importantly how they will work with partner agencies. It will provide reassurance to the public that their local services are resilient and prepared to deliver a coordinated response.”

Chair of NFCC, Mark Hardingham said: “The Emergency Preparedness and Resilience Fire Standard aims to ensure that there is a consistent approach from fire and rescue services in preparing for, and responding to, major incidents and emergencies.  

“Thankfully major incidents and emergencies are infrequent, but when they do happen members of the public should be reassured that their local service is prepared to ensure an effective response through a standardised approach to emergency preparedness. Thank you to everyone who has been involved in the development of this standard.” 

Rhino Doors makes two senior appointments

by Featured NewsPeople

Rhino Doors, manufacturer of high-performance engineered doors, has made two new senior board level appointments to facilitate the continued expansion of its products and services.

Jon Walter joins the company as Managing Director, with extensive experience in senior leadership roles at manufacturing and engineering organisations in Germany, Switzerland, the UK and the US. His appointment will see Stuart Lawrence stepping down to focus on his role as Group Managing Director of Rhino Engineering Group, driving the expansion of the wider business.

Meanwhile, Matthew Richards takes up the role of Project Engineering Director, after spending over ten years in engineering project management positions within the oil and gas industry. His appointment is to allow company’s Chief Engineer, Dr Chris Norris, to lead on design across the group, with a particular focus on research and development for HySafe.

Both Lawrence and Norris will remain directors of the business, with Lawrence assuming the role of Chairman of Rhino Doors.

“I’m very pleased to be coming onboard to lead the company at this critical time in its history,” said Jon Walter, the on his new post. “We have a team of long-serving and loyal people who have a wealth of knowledge about the products we develop, and that in itself is a huge asset.

“My focus will be firmly on broadening the scope of our operation, as well as the sectors we work within, to find new applications for our products and to deliver value to organisations across the UK and around the world.”

Matthew Richards added: “With my background in complex projects and developing systems for improvement, I’m delighted to be working with a business which has great growth potential.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with the wider Rhino team to achieve a common goal, to develop our processes and products, and continue on our path of business growth.”