Hochiki to showcase FIREscape Nepto black range at Fire Safety Event

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Detection

See live voice sounder demonstrations at the Hochiki stand

Hochiki Europe will exhibit at The Fire Safety Event 2026 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham from 28 to 30 April.

The manufacturer is the Innovation Theatre sponsor and will use stand E97 to showcase new products and systems.

Visitors can view the new FIREscape Nepto black range for the first time during the three day exhibition.

The stand features a live voice sounder demonstration and the company water leak detection range.

Specifiers and installers have the opportunity to see these systems performing in a practical setting.

The company is also introducing a new modular exhibition stand built with a lightweight aluminium frame and PVC-free graphics.

This reusable structure is designed to last for over 300 events across a 15-year lifespan.

Expert sessions on fire safety and water leak risks

Martin Green, Commercial Training and Support Manager at Hochiki Europe, will deliver three educational sessions in the Innovation Theatre.

The first session on Tuesday 28 April covers fire detection system compliance and the EN54 standard for building owners.

A second presentation on Wednesday 29 April focuses on reducing water damage risks to businesses in the United Kingdom.

The final session on Thursday 30 April provides a guide to fire safety in complex built environments.

Green said: “The sessions I’m delivering at the Fire Safety Event this year cover topics that matter to a huge range of people not only working directly in the fire industry, but also across multiple sectors right now.

“The seminar format gives us the chance to go deeper than we can in other settings, then continue those conversations face to face both on the stand and out in the wider world.”

Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director of Hochiki Europe, said: “The Fire Safety Event is one of the most important dates in our calendar and has been for a number of years.

“What makes it valuable is the quality of the people in the room.

“Specifiers, installers, consultants and building owners, all focused on the same thing.

“This year we are bringing new products, live demonstrations and a full programme of talks, but what we value most is the time we get to spend with customers and industry peers in the room.

“Understanding what they are working through, what is shaping the market right now and what they need from us.

“We come away every year with a clearer picture of where the industry is heading, that comes from the time spent face to face with the people who are navigating the same challenges every day.

“The fire safety sector is moving quickly and events like this are where you feel that progress most directly.”

The event is open from 10:00 to 16:30 on Tuesday and Wednesday, and closes at 15:30 on Thursday.

FSi Promat introduces certified shaft wall fire stopping systems

by Featured NewsPassiveProducts

FSi Promat validates shaft wall systems through independent testing

FSi Promat and Siniat have completed independent testing to provide a third-party certified fire stopping solution for shaft wall applications.

The fire stopping specialist joined forces with drywall manufacturer Siniat to demonstrate the performance of the Stopseal Batt and Flexi Coat system.

Both companies are part of the Etex group and conducted the assessments to ensure compatibility with Siniat shaft wall systems.

Shaft walls require non-standard framing and board configurations which make traditional fire testing to harmonised BS or EN standards impractical.

The use of third-party certification allows these systems to be specified in diverse and complex shaft wall configurations.

Independent validation ensures that extended applications remain compliant while supporting an increased field of application for fire stopping capabilities.

Technical specifications for FSi Promat systems

The certification adheres to European regulations including EN 13501-2 for fire integrity and insulation.

Testing also included EN 1364-1 to verify wall deflection tolerance up to 100mm during fire exposure.

The certification accommodates directional fire testing for both symmetrical and asymmetrical shaft wall constructions.

Compliance with specified minimum wall thickness standards is maintained across the validated configurations.

Paul Nash, Firestop Manager at FSi Promat said: “Through our commitment to innovation and rigorous testing, our technical specialists are consistently developing solutions to address the changing needs of the fire stopping industry.

“The successful third-party testing of our Stopseal Batt and Flexi Coat system allows for the installation of essential fire stopping to be adapted to meet the needs of projects and provides an extensive field of application for our fire stopping solutions.

“Aligning third party testing has allowed FSi Promat and Siniat to create a complete package that single-handedly addresses fire stopping and shaft wall construction – streamlining project specification and increasing on-site confidence for designers, contractors, and consultants.

“The successful third-party certification of this complete fire stopping package for shaft walls not only enhances competency and confidence in fire stopping in complex applications, but reduces time and cost to customers, whilst minimising risks.”

Britannia Fire supports UK’s new PFAS incineration capacity review

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionIndustry Comment

Environmental Audit Committee report highlights Britannia Fire waste concerns

The Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has published a report on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) calling for the Government to restrict non-essential uses of these chemicals across the United Kingdom.

Andy Spence, Managing Director of Britannia Fire, welcomed the findings following his address to the EAC in the House of Commons during June 2025.

Spence explained: “I welcome today’s report which reflects the thorough and focussed approach taken by the EAC.

“In June last year I was invited to address the EAC in the House of Commons to provide an industry viewpoint on the challenges facing the fire safety industry in achieving a smooth transition away from PFAS firefighting foams.

“The MPs listened carefully to my concerns and have highlighted them within the report, in particular the issue of impending bottlenecks and rising costs for the disposal of PFAS foam waste, with only two approved PFAS incinerating facilities currently operational in the UK.”

The cross-party committee warned that the current incineration capacity is insufficient to handle the expected volume of hazardous waste.

National remediation fund proposed for PFAS cleanup

The EAC report recommends that the Government should apply a polluter pays principle and consult on a national PFAS Remediation Fund by March 2027.

Toby Perkins MP, Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, stated: “Our report calls for the Government to phase out PFAS uses that are clearly non-essential, such as in kitchen equipment and school uniforms, and to take a precautionary approach to approving new PFAS.

“Rather than waiting for proof that a chemical is harmful before banning it, companies should need approval before they introduce a new PFAS substance.”

Spence noted: “I agree wholeheartedly with the findings that urgent action needs to be taken.

“The UK is lagging behind Europe in restricting the use of PFAS.

“We haven’t kept pace and need to catch up.

“We eagerly await the recommendations from the Health and Safety Executive following a six month consultation on proposed restrictions of PFAS in firefighting foam and hope that swift action to phase them out follows soon after.

“Although the phasing out of PFAS for some essential applications may be challenging, banning PFAS foams in fire extinguishers is an easy win.

“There are PFAS-free foam alternatives already available as effective and affordable replacements, such as Britannia Fire’s P50 ECO model, introduced to the market back in 2024.

“Responsible customers are already beginning to make the switch, which is bringing the issue of safe disposal of PFAS foams to the foreground.”

The committee suggests a phased restriction on non-essential consumer products starting from 2027.

How LEADER Group’s DIPHASIC mist system improves fireground safety

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Firefighting system uses mist to provide 98% radiant heat protection

LEADER Group has announced a new firefighting technology called the DIPHASIC system which provides up to 98% protection against radiant heat flux during fireground interventions.

The system was developed in collaboration with the Paris Fire Brigade and other fire services to address increasing operational challenges.

This technology uses an air and water mixture to generate a mist composed of more than 1.5 billion micro-droplets per litre.

Projected at high speed, these droplets disperse throughout a volume and move around obstacles to act directly on hot gases.

The system prioritises the effectiveness of each litre of water rather than increasing overall flow rates.

Operational deployment of the technology has been in place since 2023 following scientific validation and real-scale testing.

The company will present the system at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hall 13 at Booth F20 / G20.

Reducing water consumption and structural damage

Fire crews using the mist can reduce water usage by four to six times in some configurations while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Lower volumes of water limit structural loading from accumulation and reduce flooding in residential or commercial buildings.

This reduction in water use also decreases restoration requirements following fire incidents.

The system is intended to stabilise fire behaviour including flashover and backdraft conditions.

Crews can use the technology for the rapid cooling of smoke and hot gases to improve safety during advancement.

It supports firefighting without a direct line of sight and improves visibility within compartments.

Tactical applications in confined and remote environments

The DIPHASIC system has been applied in structural fires, underground parking fires and naval or airport operations.

Its ability to move through enclosed volumes is intended to support firefighting in confined environments or remote locations with restricted water access.

LEADER Group explained that the system is designed to complement existing firefighting methods rather than replace them.

It is positioned as a tactical option for use alongside established equipment depending on fire conditions and crew judgement.

The technology contributes to wider discussions regarding whether operational strategy should prioritise higher flow rates or efficiency in water application.

LEADER Group has 40 years of experience in manufacturing firefighting equipment and supplies products to more than 120 countries.

PlanRadar research reveals technology investment influences construction staff retention

by AI & Deep LearningConstructionFeatured NewsIndustry CommentResearch

PlanRadar research identifies technology as a factor in staff retention

Research from PlanRadar indicates that over half of construction professionals are more likely to remain with their current organisation if it increases investment in AI and technology.

One in four respondents reported they would be significantly more likely to stay with an employer that prioritises digital tools.

The study found that nearly half of participants have no current plans to invest in digital tools with AI capabilities despite the potential impact on talent retention.

Attracting and retaining experienced project management talent is currently a critical priority for the construction industry.

UK professionals prioritise data security and accuracy

Data from the UK market shows that 57% of professionals cite accuracy and trust as their primary concern when using AI tools for project management.

Data privacy and security represent a top-tier concern for 29% of UK respondents.

Fear of job displacement ranks last among global concerns and was cited by only 6% of participants.

Nearly half of the respondents spend more than 11 hours per week on tasks they believe AI could streamline.

Among those already using AI-integrated tools, two-thirds report saving at least two hours per week on each project.

Rob Norton, UK Director at PlanRadar, commented: “We’ve reached a point in UK construction where a pay rise alone just isn’t enough to keep hold of your best people.

“Project managers are exhausted by administrative tasks that effectively wipe out a full day of their week.

“They don’t want AI to do their jobs for them; they want it to clear the paperwork off their desks so they can focus on high-value project delivery.

“If firms keep ignoring that, they’re going to lose their most experienced leaders to the competitors who are actually willing to modernise these outdated manual processes.”

Growth in project management demand shapes technology adoption

Ibrahim Imam, Co-Founder and CEO of PlanRadar, said: “Construction professionals are spending more than a full working day every week on tasks that AI is already proving it can dramatically reduce.

“This is an unnecessary drain on some of the most experienced people in the industry.

“Our research shows that professionals are not fearful of AI, quite the opposite, more than half say investment in AI tools would make them more likely to stay with their employer.

“In a market where experienced project management talent is increasingly difficult to attract and retain, organisations that fail to invest in the tools their people need are taking a risk they may not fully appreciate.”

The Project Management Institute (PMI) estimates the construction industry will require nearly 2.5 million additional project professionals by 2035.

Sander van de Rijdt, Co-Founder and CEO of PlanRadar, added: “Construction professionals are not resistant to AI, they are asking for something very reasonable: tools they can trust, with outputs they can rely on and confidence that their project data stays protected.

“At PlanRadar we believe that trust in AI cannot be an afterthought.

“Construction professionals manage sensitive project data every day, so any AI working with that information must meet the highest standards for protection, compliance and user control.

“That expectation is shaping how we are developing AI, with these principles built in from the outset.”

The Deloitte 2026 Engineering and Construction Industry Outlook notes that construction wages have risen 4.2% year-on-year as firms compete for talent.

Tabula connects Helitak Fire Tank drop data to FireVision platform

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

New cockpit technology simplifies Helitak Fire Tank operations for pilots

Tabula has launched a partnership with Helitak Fire Fighting Equipment to link aerial drop execution with real-time fireground intelligence.

The Mosgiel-based company announced the integration on 23 April 2026 to connect Helitak Fire Tank hardware with the Tabula FireVision platform.

This system captures and shares targeted drop data in real time to help operators and incident controllers move toward informed action.

Aerial firefighting has traditionally relied on post-drop observation and radio communication to assess the effectiveness of a mission.

The new integration removes this disconnect by allowing operators to capture precise data on where and how drops are deployed.

Information is shared instantly with fireground command to enable faster and more accurate retargeting for follow-up drops.

Manual reporting and interpretation are reduced through this continuous feedback loop between the aircraft and the ground.

Michael Whittaker, CEO & Executive Chairman of Tabula said: “This is about more than capturing data — it’s about making every drop count.

“By connecting what happens in the air with decision-making on the ground, we’re giving fireground teams the information they need to respond faster and more effectively.”

Simplified cockpit operations and data transmission

The integration removes a dedicated screen from the aircraft to reduce cockpit clutter and allow pilots to stay focused on the flight.

Drop data is captured and transmitted automatically through the connected system without the need for additional in-cab hardware.

Detailed operational insight is delivered to fireground teams to strengthen the overall response to fast-moving fire environments.

The joint solution combines Helitak aerial firefighting hardware with the real-time operational visibility of the Tabula platform.

Jason Schellaars, CEO & Chief Engineer said: “We’re always focused on delivering practical, reliable solutions for aerial firefighting operations.

“Working with Tabula allows us to extend the capability of the Helitak Fire Tank by linking it directly into a broader operational system.”

This data-driven approach supports more targeted aerial firefighting as pressure on resources continues to increase.

The partnership aims to improve coordination and reduce waste by closing the loop between execution and intelligence.

National fire safety consistency questioned following latest CE Safety data

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearchSafety

Regional disparities in CE Safety fire inspection data

New research reveals that 19 fire and rescue service areas in the UK experienced a decline in satisfactory fire safety inspection outcomes over the last three financial years.

Fire safety specialists CE Safety analysed the percentage of satisfactory audits conducted by fire and rescue services between 2022/23 and 2024/25.

The data shows that 25 regions recorded an increase in satisfactory ratings during the same period.

Humberside recorded the largest decline in satisfactory audit outcomes.

In the 2022/23 period Humberside reported an 84% satisfactory rate.

This figure fell to 20% in 2023/24 and reached 8% in 2024/25.

Buckinghamshire saw a 43% drop in satisfactory audits between 2023/24 and 2024/25.

The satisfactory rate in Buckinghamshire moved from 75% in 2022/23 to 49% in 2023/24 and 28% in 2024/25.

Surrey experienced a 26.6% decline over the last financial year.

Northumberland recorded a similar decrease of 26.3% in satisfactory audit rates.

Other areas with falling rates included Dorset and Wiltshire at 34% and West Sussex at 34%.

Cumbria recorded a 39% satisfactory rate following an 18.75% decline.

Improving fire safety standards and regional leaders

Hertfordshire recorded the highest increase in satisfactory inspections moving into the 2024/25 financial year.

The satisfactory rate in Hertfordshire rose from 52% in 2023/24 to 89% in 2024/25.

North Yorkshire saw satisfactory audits increase by 32.3% to reach a rate of 82%.

Cleveland reported a 26.1% increase in its satisfactory inspection rate.

Cheshire maintained the highest overall percentage of satisfactory inspections at 92%.

Gary Ellis, managing director of CE Safety, commented on the findings.

Ellis said: “If you own a building or workplace in England or the UK, there are strict measures in place you must abide by, from appointing a fire marshal to having the correct fire doors installed, to keeping updated risk assessments to thorough fire prevention efforts, including working fire alarm systems.

“The importance of ensuring audits take place in buildings across the country cannot be understated – there are still thousands of fires in workplaces and public buildings in the UK every year.

“This is an area I hope to see improve radically in the near future, however building managers and owners should not wait until they are penalised before they act when it comes to fire safety.

“The responsibility is yours and should be treated with the utmost importance.”

The data highlights a lack of consistency in building safety standards across the country.

Historic Mar Hall Hotel adopts Hyfire wireless technology

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Hyfire wireless technology installed at Mar Hall

The Mar Hall Hotel and Resort has completed the installation of more than a thousand Hyfire wireless fire alarm devices to protect the historic 19th-century building and its staff.

Hyfire published a case study detailing the project at the 240-acre estate located near Glasgow International Airport.

The installation was designed to ensure the safety of guests and the continued longevity of the historic Edwardian house constructed in the 1830s.

The Taurus wireless fire system provides performance through SafePath Mesh Expander Technology.

If any expander in the network fails, the system automatically reroutes the transmission via an alternative path to maintain uninterrupted communication.

Challenges of the Mar Hall listed building

The resort operated on a wired fire alarm system for more than 25 years before the upgrade was required for the main hotel and its outbuildings.

Hyfire partner JC Electrical & Security Solutions recommended a wireless system to allow for installation without shutting down hotel operations.

The centuries-old layout featured vaulted ceilings and uneven surfaces in lower staff levels.

Some walls consisted of thick stone which made establishing a wireless connection difficult.

Installers used the Hyfire Survey Lite Kit to identify the most robust signal strengths throughout the estate.

Specialist scaffolding was used to access vaulted ceilings and fit devices above the foyer chandelier.

John Cooper, at JC Electrical & Security Solutions, said: “The black device range came into good use as Mar Hall had a cinema room, so the black optical device looks like it was always meant to be there.”

The project was completed without issues and incorporated the previous system to ensure fire safety continuity during the transition.

Ajax Systems earns international recognition for fire and security product design

by Featured News

Ajax Systems earns eight awards for fire safety and security

Ajax Systems has received eight Red Dot Design Awards for its range of fire safety, intrusion protection and video surveillance hardware.

The company announced that this marks the third consecutive year it has been recognised by the international competition which evaluates innovation, functionality and aesthetics.

Valentine Hrytsenko, CMO at Ajax Systems, said: “Beauty is embedded in Ajax Systems’ DNA.

“For us, it goes far beyond industrial design, encompassing every stage of product creation — from engineering and software to manufacturing and marketing.

“Winning eight Red Dot Design Awards this year is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication of our entire team.

“It once again reinforces our commitment to delivering truly exceptional experiences through our solutions.”

Awarded hardware for fire and life safety

The EN54 Fire Hub Jeweller earned an award in the Industrial Equipment, Machinery and Automation category as a touchscreen control and indicating equipment (CIE) for fire system management.

This hub provides system states and alarm notifications via a large interface while supporting video surveillance and automation devices.

The EN54 FireProtect Jeweller sounders and visual alarm devices (VADs) were also recognised for delivering alerts within three seconds of an alarm.

These devices monitor battery life in real time and allow for wall or ceiling mounting without requiring disassembly during installation.

The EN54 I/O Module (2X2) Jeweller received an accolade for its ability to integrate third-party devices such as beam smoke detectors or HVAC systems into the Ajax ecosystem.

Recognition for video surveillance and intrusion protection

Three camera models were honoured in the Cameras and Camera Equipment category including the Superior TurretCam HLVF and Superior BulletCam HLVF.

These cameras use a P-Iris lens to maintain image clarity in varying light conditions and feature artificial intelligence to distinguish between people, pets and vehicles.

The BulletCam HL was recognised for its hybrid illumination which uses both infrared and white light to capture high-definition footage in total darkness.

Recording solutions including the NVR H series and the Superior NVR H2D series received awards in the Computer and Information Technology category.

The NVR H2D series includes onboard AI for analytics and supports two hot-swappable hard disk drives (HDDs) with a capacity of up to 24 TB each.

Robust UK appoints new product and compliance lead

by Featured News

Robust UK strengthens technical leadership with new appointment

Robust UK has appointed Rob Mottram as Head of Product and Compliance to support growth and innovation across its range of steel door solutions.

The company announced the strategic move to advance product development and drive innovation.

Mottram brings more than 10 years of industry experience to the role.

He previously served as Technical Manager for the ARRONE range at HOPPE (UK).

During his time there he gained knowledge of door hardware and the testing and certification processes that underpin product performance.

Mottram has prior experience at Robust UK having worked as a Design Engineer, Production Supervisor and Research and Development Manager.

Career background and industry expertise of Rob Mottram

Emily Mathews, General Manager at Robust, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Rob to the Product and Compliance team.

“His extensive experience, time spent at HOPPE, technical expertise and strong understanding of our business and culture from his previous time with us will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our range of fully certified and compliant products.”

As Head of Product and Compliance Mottram will lead the Research and Development and Drawing teams.

He is responsible for driving innovation and ensuring compliance across the product portfolio.

Mottram is a qualified Certificated Standards & Regulations Advisor (CertSRA).

He holds Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) Diplomas in Door Systems (RegDS) and Access Control (RegAC).

Professional contributions and fire safety education

Mottram said: “I’m delighted to be back at Robust to contribute to the continued growth and innovation of its extensive product portfolio.

“It is a proud moment to be leading two teams that I have previously been part of, helping to make a real impact on product innovation and compliance.”

The new appointee is an active member of the GAI Education Committee.

He contributes to industry training and delivers educational sessions while supporting examination processes.

Mottram is currently completing a Diploma in Principles of Firestopping to deepen his knowledge of how doors function in passive fire protection.