MSA Safety launches ALTAIR io 4 Gas Detection Wearable

by Featured NewsPPEProducts

Adopting new technology that helps to simplify safety procedures and connect managers to their employees in hazardous environments has never been more easy. MSA Safety announced that its latest innovation – the ALTAIR io 4 Gas Detection Wearable device – is now available for order.

Designed to work in concert with the company’s new MSA+ safety subscription service, the ALTAIR io 4 device represents the hardware portion of a cloud-ready suite of technology that MSA calls the Connected Work Platform. When connected together, the ALTAIR io 4 and MSA+ create a versatile and powerful hardware/software combination that enhances worker safety while simplifying safety program management.

“The Connected Work Platform brings workers, worksites and workflows together to help make safety simpler for everyone,” said Gustavo Lopez, MSA Safety’s Vice President of Connected Services & General Manager of Industrial Products. “We’re empowering safety managers to use the platform as a solution to develop adaptable and proactive safety plans by leveraging our world-class sensor technology and cloud-based solutions to enhance safety and productivity.”

To showcase the features, benefits and value of MSA’s Connected Work Platform, the company is hosting a virtual Connected Work Summit May 17 – 19, 2022. Attendees can learn from and chat with MSA experts about why the technology that enables connectivity is often under-utilized or missing from safety management programs and how to leverage connected technology to address those gaps and create adaptive safety programs.

MSA will feature the ALTAIR io 4 at the summit, highlighting how it was designed from the ground-up, making it MSA’s first direct-to-cloud gas detector to feature:

  • Out-of-the box global cellular connectivity and GPS location to transmit real-time data, like critical gas detection readings and location information, directly to supervisors via the MSA Grid software platform;
  • Access to MSA software services that enable fleet management, as well as real-time monitoring, incident reporting and datalogging services;
  • A new, electronic MSA id device tag that replaces paper-based sign-out processes;
  • MSA’s industry-leading XCell Sensors; and
  • Compatibility with a new ALTAIR io Dock calibration test stand, enabling automatic bump testing, calibration and datalogging.

With MSA+, safety managers can bundle hardware and software needs for long-term safety advancements and a convenient way to stay ahead of safety innovation and with minimal capital expense. The MSA Grid and accompanying MSA+ safety subscription has various price points and subscription levels to accommodate individual customer needs and budgets. MSA+ also extends warranty coverage and provides automatic and ongoing software upgrades.

“Having the ALTAIR io 4 connected with MSA+ means it will only get better with time,” Lopez said. “It means getting the latest software updates automatically, ultimately bringing the most recent safety technology immediately to the worksite. Additionally, with safety data automatically logged in the MSA Grid, it helps make compliance easier by streamlining the data gathering and creating reports to inform safety decisions.”

In addition to the Connected Work Platform and the ALTAIR io 4, the mid-May Connected
Work Summit will allow safety managers to learn more about managing and protecting their safety programs now and in the future. Over the three-day event, learn how connected worksites, gas detection wearables, and software solutions can enhance worker and infrastructure safety.

Sessions include:

  • How Connectivity Can Help Simplify Safety and Boost Productivity – Tuesday, May 17;
  • Managing Your Gas Detection Fleet with Hardware and Software – Wednesday, May 18;
  • Why Cybersecurity Matters for Connected Work Programs – Thursday, May 19.

To register for the free summit sessions, click here. The ALTAIR io 4 will be first made available in the United States and Europe, and MSA said it expects to begin shipments in May. For more information on the ALTAIR io 4 Detector and MSA+, please visit the company website by clicking here.

IWMA and FRIC to embark on a research project

by Featured NewsSafety

The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) and the Fire Research and Innovation Centre (FRIC) in Norway are about to start a collaborative research project aiming to gather information on the performance of sprinklers to quantify the consistency of their extinguishing performance.

IWMA general manager Bettina McDowell explains: “For this purpose, IWMA will collect data which will then be made available to FRIC. FRIC will then organize, process, and analyse the data and publish an open report.”

As far as the schedule is concerned, IWMA and FRIC are looking at a one-year project. The collection of the data will commence during the second quarter of 2022. The report will be published during the first or second quarter of 2023.

Darley welcomes new board members

by Featured NewsPeople

Lieutenant General L. Scott Rice, former director, Air National Guard, the Pentagon, Washington, D.C. recently joined Darley’s Defense Advisory Board.

He was responsible for formulating, developing and coordinating all policies, plans and programs affecting more than 105,500 Guard members and civilians. Before assuming his current

position, General Rice served as the adjutant general and commander, Massachusetts Air National Guard.

Darley also added two new members to our Fire Advisory Board. Chief Dan Eggleston began his fire service career in 1978 and is currently the career fire rescue chief with the Albemarle County (VA) Department of Fire Rescue.

Chief Eggleston is a past president and chairman of the board for the International Association of Fire Chiefs and currently serves as a board member for the National Association of Counties.

Chief Kim Zagaris, or ‘Chief Z’ as some call him, is currently the wildfire policy and technology advisor for the Westen Fire Chiefs Association. His position is new, created in response to the destructive

wildfires that have. unfolded across the West.

Chief Zagaris retired as state fire and rescue chief for the State of California, Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), a position he held for 18 years. Chie Zagaris has extensive background in fire service, emergency management and homeland security which includes working with local, state federal and international agencies over his 42-year fire service career.

During his tenure in California, he served under six governors. and has been actively involved in every major and catastrophic emergency in California as well several in the nation. During his time with Cal OES he was able to expand the fire apparatus fleet from 106 fire apparatus to 300 fire apparatus most with Darley pumps.

Warwickshire invites residents to become on-call firefighters

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Warwickshire residents have been invited to sign up as on-call firefighters before May 12 with the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service in the UK.

On-call firefighters in Warwickshire perform a range of services including responding to incidents, prevention activities, supporting fire protection efforts and working with local communities. They do this while usually working a day job and maintaining a balance between the two roles.

On-call firefighters can earn between £5,000 to £8,000 annually, the county announced on its website.

On-call firefighters normally live within five minutes to their nearest station and respond as needed to calls during set shifts. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is offering a new option for on-call firefighters where residents living outside the five-minute response radius can work their day job from their local fire station when on-call and respond to calls as necessary. This setup would suit people formerly working in office roles who are now hybrid-working or working from home.

Warwickshire County Council’s spokesman for Fire and Rescue and Community Safety, Andy Crump, said: “On-call firefighters have a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, work in their local communities and develop themselves. I would heavily encourage anyone considering applying to do so – especially in Fenny Compton or Shipston-on-Stour where we currently have vacancies.

“In my opinion the ability to work from our fire stations means that many people who may have felt unable to apply previously can now do so. Please do submit your application if that sounds like you.”

Prospective recruits must be aged 18 and over, a team player, passionate about serving the community and willing to pick up new skills. They will receive an extensive training of course and be expected to attend a drill night once a week.

Candidates do not need any prior qualifications to apply for the role and anyone who considers themselves willing to work on their fitness and new skills should apply. On-call firefighters receive an annual wage plus additional payments for attending drill nights and incidents.

IOSH backs manifesto to end workplace deaths

by Featured NewsSafety

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) today calls for a joint effort to create a safer a healthier world of work as a new manifesto is launched which aims to end workplace fatalities by 2030.

IOSH is one of many organisations to sign the manifesto ‘Zero Death at Work’, which is launched today by the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC).

In unveiling the manifesto, ETUC estimates that more than 27,000 people may lose their lives at work in the EU over the current decade unless action is taken to make workplaces safer, something IOSH says is unacceptable.

Vanessa Harwood-Whitcher, Chief Executive of IOSH, said: “IOSH supports the European Trade Union Confederation call for zero death at work. We promote safe work and workplaces in which no lives are lost and we believe firmly that all deaths can and should be prevented. We encourage an holistic approach to preventing deaths due to occupational injuries through multi-faceted governmental and corporate prevention strategies. This requires strong leadership, worker-involvement and occupational safety and health (OSH) capacity-building, underpinned by effective OSH regulatory regimes.”

Today’s launch coincides with International Workers’ Memorial Day, an annual day in which people who have lost their lives through work are remembered. It is also World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

Vanessa added: “On this day, every year, we commemorate all those lives lost due to accidents and ill-health caused by poor working conditions and inadequate protections. We also consider what improvements everyone can make to protect workers’ rights to go home healthy each day.

“Global figures from the International Labour Organisation show that many people are still dying as a result of occupational accidents or work-related diseases, and new challenges such as the Covid-19 public health crisis highlight workplaces as potential sources of transmission. Added to the rise of the informal economy and platform working and impacts of climate change on OSH, there is still much to do to protect workers across the entire value chain. We need action by policy-makers, Governments, regulators, organisations and workers to driver a safer and healthier world of work, and one that revitalises and ‘builds back better and healthier.

“As the world’s largest body for professionals dedicated to occupational safety and health, our charitable objects direct us to pursue the vision of a safe and healthy world of work. Our mission supports this, and our members dedicate their working lives to the protection of workers health and safety, the prevention of harm, building sustainable workforces and supporting their colleagues to lead healthy, productive lives.”

IOSH is joined by Ministers, MEPs, trade union leaders and top occupational safety and health experts in signing the manifesto.

Vanessa added: “Our Catch the Wave campaign highlights how setting high standards in the treatment of workforces, communities and supply chains will reward everyone. Let’s work together to make our shared vision a reality.”

KME display new fire apparatus technology at FDIC 2022

by Americas - EventsAmericas - ProductsFeatured NewsProductsVehicles

KME, a subsidiary of REV Group, has several new fire apparatus technology on display at FDIC International from April 28-30, 2022.

KME’s Booth #4500 will show five unique vehicles to meet multiple fire service needs. These include:

• 103-foot Tuff Truck from Pine Ridge Fire and Rescue, SC: Built on a KME SSX chassis, this rig features a 650-gallon water tank a 1750 GPM pump, and KME’s EZ-MRS™ to help facilitate maintenance and keep the AerialCat Steel-Safe ladder in optimal condition.

• Heavy Walk-In Rescue from West Haverstraw Fire Department, NY: This truck has a four (4) compartment walk-in rescue body, crew seating for 8, an 8” front bumper extension and dual cribbing compartments under the body.

• Tractor-Drawn AerialCat with Steel-Safe technology from Summerville Fire Department, SC: This 101-foot TDA is built on a SSX chassis and features a pre-piped waterway, a -14’ outrigger stance, and 90-degree jack knife capability.

• 102’ Mid-Mount Platform from East Pennsboro Township Fire Department, PA: The spacious platform offers 22.8 cubic feet of space for four firefighters and equipment as well as a state-of-the-art motion control system with 10” display at the control console.

• Custom 4X4 Pumper from San Bernardino County Fire Department, CA: This truck features the SSX chassis with 10” raised roof, a Zico single arm ladder rack, 1500 GPM pump, 500-gallon water tank with 30-gallon foam cell and FoamPro foam system.

“We’ve got a great selection of apparatus that will be on display, each showcasing KME’s custom configurations based on the fire department’s specific requirements,” said Kent Tyler, President of REV Fire Group. “We are excited about seeing our customers face-to-face in Indianapolis and talking about the latest in fire apparatus and technology.”

Ferrara showcasing several new apparatus’ at FDIC 2022

by Americas - EventsAmericas - ProductsFeatured NewsProductsVehicles

Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc., a subsidiary of REV Group, is exhibiting the latest in fire apparatus and technology, including the first North American style fully electric fire truck at FDIC International.

REV Fire Group’s Vector will make its debut at FDIC yesterday, allowing attendees to see and learn about the first North American style fully electric fire truck.

Developed with technology partner Emergency One Group LTD – maker of the world’s first EV fire truck – Vector packs 316 kW of proven automotive-grade batteries to deliver the longest electric pumping duration in the industry. This enables fire departments to drive and pump on electric only.

Ferrara will display the following products at Booth #4101: Cinder Custom Pumper from Gary (IN) Fire Department, Igniter Custom from Jackson (NJ) Fire District, MVP Rescue Pumper from Jackson Township (IN) Fire Department, and Custom Pumper from Shreveport (LA) Fire Department.
“At Ferrara, every truck is authentic, just like our team and we look forward to seeing you at FDIC,” said Kent Tyler, President of REV Fire Group. “We are extremely excited and proud to share the Ferrara story and show off our line-up of heavy-duty fire trucks this year at FDIC.”

Jeff Schaid promoted to vice president at Telgian Fire Safety

by Featured NewsPeople

Telgian Fire Safety recently announced the promotion of Jeff Schaid to Vice President, Field Operations. In his new role, Schaid will be responsible for the overall leadership, direction, and development of Field Operations.

This includes the creation and implementation of strategic and operational initiatives for both internal and external inspections, as well as data analysis and headcount evaluation.  He will also provide indirect oversight of Field Support consisting of post-inspection document review processes, logistics systems, compliance, and all vendor related operations.    

In addition to managing multiple work teams across the country, Schaid will be responsible for the direction, mentorship, and support of all departmental associates. He will set both individual and work team goals and provide training to accomplish overall goals and objectives.

“Jeff’s extensive experience and success at Telgian have made him an invaluable team member,” says Telgian Fire Safety President Larry Lacefield. “As the company continues to expand and diversify in 2022, more than ever, we value his innovation, vision and leadership.”

With more than 10 years of experience, Schaid specializes in the establishment of business objectives and the development and maintenance of both departmental metrics and associated KPIs. Schaid is also adept at streamlining workflows, identifying areas for improvement, and developing initiatives for improving delivery of services.

Formerly the Senior Director of Operations, Schaid has been part of the Telgian team for over six years.  

Firefly reports strong showing at Fire Safety Event

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

The combination of well-established flexible fire barrier systems and brand-new products developed to complement their performance, brought a steady flow of new and existing customers to the stand of TBA Firefly, as the specialist manufacturer returned to the Fire Safety Event at the NEC (5th – 7th April).

Firefly was showcasing its recently introduced Access Panel FR120 that has been developed to facilitate routine entry to lofts and other spaces compartmentalised using the manufacturer’s fire barriers. The 600 x 600mm lockable Zintec steel door and frame are IFC certified and supplied as a kit for a straightforward installation offering two hours’ fire protection.

Also debuting on the stand was Penowrap, a lightweight and flexible silica wrap which works with Firefly barriers like Athena by being able to protect steel or timber structural elements at their most vulnerable points.

Firefly Marketing Manager, Simon James commented: “After last September’s really positive show, it was expected this year’s Fire Safety Event would be a success, but we were very pleased with the number and profile of people who visited our stand over the three days.   

Shows like The Fire Safety Event are important to our brand and it was a good opportunity to let architects, engineers and other fire safety professionals look at, feel and discuss our passive fire protection products.  It is, after all, everything we are about – with FIREFLY being the first certified flexible fire barrier system and a manufacturer which continues to invest significantly in testing and developing new products which enhance our offer to specifiers and specialist installers.”   

Firefly’s expert technical staff were on hand to offer advice and support on all aspects of compartmentation when specifying the company’s products for both new-build and retrofit applications – within roof spaces, floor voids or for protecting partitions in warehouses and other structures.

Rev Fire Group unveils Vector at FDIC 2022

by Featured NewsProductsVehicles

REV Fire Group, which includes REV GroupInc. manufacturers of fire apparatus E-ONE, KME, Ferrara, Spartan Fire Chassis, Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal, and Ladder Tower, will debut Vector, the first North American-style fully electric fire truck, during FDIC International (Fire Department Instructors Conference) in Indianapolis, Indiana from April 28-30, 2022.

The new electric fire truck is innovatively engineered so firefighters can drive and pump on electric power only. Developed with technology partner Emergency One Group LTD – maker of the world’s first EV fire truck – this new electric fire truck packs 316 kW of proven automotive-grade batteries to deliver the longest electric pumping duration in the industry. Vector performs 100 percent of fire ground duties on 100 percent electric with unrivaled performance, range, and efficiency.

Designed with the same components that are used on diesel-driven fire apparatus, Vector’s electric motor takes the place of the diesel engine, driving the pump or the rear axle in normal split shaft operation. Its low center of gravity battery placement provides better cornering with more predictable handling and is safer in a crash.

“We’re excited for Vector to debut at FDIC. We developed the ultimate fully electric fire truck without sacrificing the critical elements that firefighters value in the North American style, responding to our customer demand for cleaner technology, reduced noise pollution and lower carbon footprint. We look forward to sharing this with everyone at FDIC and the world,” stated Kent Tyler, President of REV Fire Group.

A special launch event will be held at REV Fire Group’s World of Innovation and Protection at Booth #4516 during FDIC at 3 p.m. Thursday, April 28 and Friday, April 29, and to mark the debut of Vector and to demonstrate other technological innovations, including:

Approximately 20 vehicles in various configurations will be showcased from the fire brands.