Hochiki ESP system installed at AU Vodka Swansea HQ

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Fire detection installed at AU Vodka’s newly built headquarters in Wales

Hochiki has reported that a Hochiki ESP addressable fire detection system has been installed at AU Vodka’s new two-storey headquarters in Swansea.

The system was installed by H3 Group, a South Wales-based fire and security contractor.

It covers both office and recreational areas of the headquarters, which houses over 150 employees.

AU Vodka’s facility includes kitchen and communal spaces, a mini golf course, and a maze.

The fire safety solution was selected to meet the building’s varied layout and visual design requirements.

Fire detection system selected for aesthetic and technical compatibility

According to Hochiki, the ESP addressable range was chosen for its reliability and design.

Simon Goneso of H3 Group said: “When we secured the AU Vodka contract, it was clear that we needed a fire safety solution that mirrored the brand’s commitment to quality and design.

“Hochiki’s ESP addressable range emerged as the ideal choice.

“We have consistently found their devices to be exceptionally reliable, which is crucial in minimising the risk of false alarms within a busy and dynamic environment like AU Vodka’s headquarters.

“The ease of installation and maintenance offered by Hochiki’s systems is also a significant advantage for our engineers.”

H3 Group highlighted the system’s compatibility with the architectural design of the building.

Hochiki stated the devices offer high performance while remaining visually unobtrusive.

Full building network coverage required for two-floor site

Hochiki stated that the two-floor configuration of the building required full networking capabilities to ensure consistent protection throughout the site.

The ESP system was installed to ensure uninterrupted coverage across all zones.

This includes traditional office spaces as well as non-standard facilities such as the golf course and maze.

Hochiki reported that the system allows for seamless communication and control across both floors of the headquarters.

H3 Group selected as installer due to long-standing relationship with manufacturer

Hochiki stated that H3 Group was chosen to carry out the installation based on their previous experience with the manufacturer’s products.

H3 Group has worked with Hochiki Europe on other projects and recommended the ESP system based on past performance.

The project required a solution that offered both safety and minimal disruption to the building’s interior design.

Hochiki’s addressable devices were selected to meet this dual requirement.

Hochiki ESP system installed at AU Vodka Swansea HQ: Summary

Hochiki has reported that its ESP addressable fire detection system was installed at AU Vodka’s new headquarters in Swansea.

The system was installed by South Wales-based contractor H3 Group.

The two-floor building includes recreational facilities as well as traditional office spaces.

The ESP system was selected for its network reliability and compatibility with the visual design of the interior.

The building houses more than 150 staff members and required full fire detection coverage across all areas.

H3 Group stated that the reliability and ease of installation of Hochiki systems influenced their recommendation.

The system enables communication and control throughout both floors of the building.

AU Vodka’s headquarters features communal kitchen spaces, a mini golf course, and a maze.

Hochiki stated that the devices integrate with the building without affecting the overall look of the offices.

The installation was based on previous experience between Hochiki Europe and H3 Group.

Sentera and Teledyne FLIR expand thermal drone applications with new payload

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Teledyne FLIR confirms new partnership with Sentera

Teledyne FLIR has reported that Sentera Sensors and Drones has joined the Thermal by FLIR programme.

The US-based manufacturer is integrating FLIR Boson thermal camera modules into its 6X Thermal Series drone payload.

The integration provides the Sentera platform with radiometric thermal imaging, alongside existing multispectral and RGB sensors.

The updated system supports data collection for a range of uses including fire detection, agriculture and industrial inspections.

According to Teledyne FLIR, the addition of Boson modules enhances mapping accuracy by providing radiometric temperature data at the pixel level.

Capabilities of the new 6X Thermal Series payload

The Sentera 6X Thermal Series includes the 6X Thermal and 6X Thermal Pro models.

Both models feature either the FLIR Boson 640R or 320R thermal imagers.

Each payload is also equipped with four synchronised 3.2MP monochrome imagers and a 20MP RGB sensor.

The system is NDAA-compliant and designed to integrate with various drone platforms used in outdoor and industrial settings.

Use cases highlighted by the manufacturer include water stress monitoring, evaporation analysis and infrastructure inspections.

Integration improves thermal data processing

Sentera said the integration improves the quality and usability of thermal data.

Eric Taipale, chief technology officer at Sentera, said: “Precision thermal mapping has long been a challenge due to alignment and stitching issues.

“By combining FLIR’s trusted thermal technology with Sentera’s automated multispectral-assisted processing, we’re making it easier for users to capture, process, and analyze high-quality thermal data with confidence.”

The payload combines thermal, multispectral and visible imaging technologies into a single unit.

Teledyne FLIR stated that this approach supports a range of practical applications, including agriculture and public safety.

Teledyne FLIR’s Thermal by FLIR programme explained

The Thermal by FLIR programme is a development and marketing initiative for product integrators using Teledyne FLIR thermal camera modules.

The company said the programme is intended to reduce development costs and risk for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and speed up product launch.

Jared Faraudo, vice president of product management at Teledyne FLIR OEM, said: “Sentera’s innovative approach to combining thermal, multispectral, and visible imaging in a unified sensor package represents a market-changing innovation the Thermal by FLIR program was designed to support.”

The 6X Thermal Series joins a range of Thermal by FLIR products in use across several industries, including automotive, defence and wearables.

Sentera and Teledyne FLIR expand thermal drone applications with new payload: Summary

Teledyne FLIR has announced that Sentera has joined its Thermal by FLIR programme.

Sentera has integrated the FLIR Boson thermal camera module into its 6X Thermal Series drone payloads.

The updated system includes either the Boson 640R or 320R thermal imager, four 3.2MP monochrome sensors, and a 20MP RGB camera.

Sentera stated the integration allows for improved thermal data mapping and analysis.

Teledyne FLIR said the payload delivers radiometric temperature data at the pixel level.

The 6X Thermal Series supports agriculture, industrial, and public safety applications.

The payload is compatible with a range of drone platforms and is compliant with US National Defense Authorisation Act (NDAA) requirements.

The Thermal by FLIR programme supports OEMs in developing and marketing products using FLIR thermal modules.

Other programme members produce integrated thermal systems for sectors including automotive and defence.

AI detection system ZOE fitted to cruise ship Ambition

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPorts & MaritimeSearch and Rescue

Zelim’s ZOE system deployed on Ambassador Cruise Lines ship

Zelim has reported that its AI-based man overboard (MOB) detection and tracking system, ZOE, is being installed on the Ambition, a 48,123 grt cruise ship operated by UK-based Ambassador Cruise Lines.

The Ambition, which has a capacity of 1,200 passengers, will be the first operational deployment of ZOE in the cruise sector.

According to Zelim, the installation includes infrared and daylight cameras, sensors and supporting software to provide continuous 360° visibility from the bridge.

Ambassador Cruise Lines’ Chief Operating Officer, Nick Hughes, said: “With the safety of our passengers and crews our foremost concern we were keen to put ZOE onboard.

“ZOE gives our passengers and crew piece of mind that in the rare event of a MOB incident bridge teams are immediately alerted to a person falling overboard, with the person tracked until rescued.”

Tracking capabilities designed to improve MOB response

According to Zelim, ZOE detects a person falling overboard and continuously tracks them in the water, delivering geo-location data to support coordinated rescue operations.

Zelim’s Chief Technology Officer, Doug Lothian, said: “Man overboard detection is an emergent technology, but most existing solutions focus solely on detecting the fall, not on tracking the person in the water.

“Without continuous tracking, a drifting casualty can be quickly lost from view as the vessel moves, making a successful rescue far more challenging.”

He added: “ZOE’s AI-powered detection models not only identify and classify a person as they fall, automatically alerting the bridge, but continuously tracks them as they drift.

“It provides precise geo-location data, enabling bridge teams to coordinate and accelerate the rescue effort with greater accuracy.”

System undergoes testing for international safety standards

ZOE is currently being tested aboard Ambition to meet ISO 21195 standards for detecting persons falling overboard.

Zelim reported that the system recently achieved a 98 percent detection rate during Lloyd’s Register Phase I and II type approval tests.

Zelim’s Chief Operating Officer, Stewart Gregory, said: “First and second phase trials have been a huge success and LR will now move ahead with Phase III of the certification process.

“This delivers further confidence to cruise lines that ZOE reduces the risk of persons falling overboard going undetected and lost at sea.”

Gregory also stated: “The decision by Ambassador Cruise Lines to install ZOE is an important milestone in maritime safety.

“Ambition shows the passenger ship sector there is now proven technology available that mitigates the risk of losing lives to MOB incidents, especially in rough seas and in hours of darkness.”

Additional functionality includes navigational hazard detection

In addition to MOB monitoring, the installation on Ambition includes forward-facing cameras to expand the system’s use beyond overboard incidents.

Zelim said the technology can also detect objects such as semi-submerged debris, small vessels and other low radar cross-section hazards.

This aims to enhance bridge team situational awareness and support navigation safety.

Nick Hughes said: “It allows us to direct an immediate and rapid rescue response.

“What we also like about the system is that it can be used to alert our watchkeepers to hard-to-see navigational hazards.”

Doug Lothian added: “ZOE’s advanced cameras and sensors also identify navigational hazards such as semi-submerged objects, vessels of all sizes, and low radar cross-section threats that pose risks to safety and ship security.”

AI detection system ZOE fitted to cruise ship Ambition: Summary

Zelim is installing its man overboard detection and tracking system ZOE on Ambassador Cruise Lines’ cruise ship Ambition.

The 48,123 grt ship, with a capacity of 1,200 passengers, is the first cruise vessel to be fitted with ZOE.

The system uses AI-powered infrared and daylight cameras, as well as software and sensors, to detect, classify and track individuals who fall overboard.

ZOE also provides real-time geo-location data to improve rescue operations.

The system is undergoing testing to meet ISO 21195 standards and has passed Lloyd’s Register Phase I and II type approval trials with a 98 percent detection rate.

Zelim’s representatives said the technology helps locate and track MOB casualties and detect navigational hazards such as semi-submerged objects and low radar cross-section vessels.

The system will be showcased at Seatrade Global Cruise in Miami, Florida, from 7–10 April 2025.

OroraTech launches satellite constellation for wildfire detection & data accumulation

by Featured NewsFire DetectionWildland Fire

OroraTech has successfully launched the world’s first wildfire constellation of eight satellites, built jointly by OroraTech and Spire Global, from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand.

This constellation will provide real-time wildfire detection and change the way satellites will be used in fighting the growing wildfire problem.

For the first time, sensor data will be available during the crucial time in the afternoon and at night, a time when fires rage the hottest and firefighters need the most support. No other data from public thermal satellites is available during these critical periods of the day.

CEO and CTO, Orora Tech, Dr. Martin Langer’s statement

Dr. Martin Langer, CEO & CTO of OroraTech, said: “This is a new era of combating wildfires. We are fulfilling our mission to provide heroes on the ground with the insights they need to save lives, land, and property.

“By filling this gap, we are providing information that the firefighting community has been requesting for decades.

“I want to thank the entire OroraTech team and our partners Spire Global and Rocket Lab for their commitment and hard work in making this unprecedented achievement possible.”

Prevalence of the new constellation

With its new constellation, OroraTech will bring to its global customer base two world firsts; wildfire information in real time alerting users on the ground within minutes, and wide coverage with high-resolution sensors that spot fires as small as 4m x 4m.

This provides first responders, governments, and fire organizations with unprecedented situational awareness at every stage of the fire. 

Spire Global built and integrated the satellites with OroraTech’s thermal imager and processing systems, highlighting their ongoing collaboration in the fight against wildfires.

This constellation expands the OroraTech satellite network, adding eight more satellites to the existing network of over 25+ integrated satellites.

The Rocket Lab launch mission, named “Finding Hot Wildfires Near You,” saw the Electron rocket deliver the eight satellites into a 550km orbit.

OroraTech’s satellites provide continuous global coverage, circling the Earth multiple times a day, gathering high-resolution data.

This data is uploaded into the company’s Wildfire Solution platform to display the location, size, and spread of a fire. By integrating many different satellites and data sources, OroraTech ensures a continuous flow of new fire data to be sent directly to their userbase of over 500+ users worldwide.

Plans moving forward

OroraTech is already set to grow their network of satellites quickly, with another eight satellites launching at the end of 2025. This provides even more coverage of wildfires, giving more frequent updates to emergency responders and other customers. 

Satellite constellation for wildfire detection & data accumulation launched by OroraTech: Summary

OroraTech has announced the launch of the world’s first wildfire constellation of eight satellites, built jointly by OroraTech and Spire Global, from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand.

Dr. Martin Langer, CEO & CTO of OroraTech, said the launch has welcomed a new era of fighting wildfires.

Bull Products to present integrated UK fire and site safety systems at Fire Safety Event 2025

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Detection

Bull Products to display SITEGATE, SITENET and SITEPROTECT in Birmingham

Bull Products has announced it will showcase a wide range of fire safety, site safety and access control systems at the Fire Safety Event 2025.

The company will present its SITEGATE, SITENET and SITEPROTECT systems, along with the Cygnus ALERT platform and Fire 360° service.

Carl Leeson, Head of Sales at Bull Products, said: “By working with one provider, companies can significantly reduce procurement costs, streamline training requirements, and enhance overall efficiency.

“Our integrated safety ecosystem ensures instant and reliable communication between fire alarms, site safety systems, and workforce management tools, thereby enhancing site security and operational efficiency.”

SITEGATE offers cloud-based workforce and delivery management

SITEGATE, Bull Products’ cloud-based access control and workforce management system, will be featured at the event.

It consists of three modules: Workforce Management, Online Induction and Delivery Management.

The system includes turnstiles and site entry control mechanisms, offering real-time data across single or multiple sites.

According to Bull Products, SITEGATE is designed to support security, reduce carbon emissions and improve operational efficiency.

It integrates with the SITENET and SITEPROTECT product lines.

Wireless alarm systems for temporary and permanent applications

Bull Products will also display its SITENET wireless alarm system, which holds EN 54 certification.

The system is designed for temporary use across construction and infrastructure projects, including high-rise buildings and underground works.

The wireless mesh system uses channel-hopping radio technology for consistent network connectivity.

Bull Products reports that it is the only provider currently offering an EN 54 certified 100% wireless solution for both indoor and outdoor temporary applications.

The SITEPROTECT product line provides additional wireless alarm capabilities for construction sites.

These include emergency fire, first aid, intruder and lockdown alarms.

Cygnus ALERT platform and Fire 360° service to be presented

Visitors will be able to learn about the Cygnus ALERT notification and monitoring system.

This cloud-based platform provides live updates on events, system faults and network performance.

The Cygnus Mesh Analyser displays the structure and strength of the wireless mesh system.

Bull Products states that this software is used by its engineers during installation and maintenance of SITENET systems.

Bull Products will also present its Fire 360° service, which includes risk assessments, site surveys, equipment servicing and asset management.

The company says this service helps customers maintain compliance and meet environmental targets.

Bull Products to present integrated UK fire and site safety systems at Fire Safety Event 2025: Summary

Bull Products will exhibit a range of fire safety and site management products at the Fire Safety Event 2025.

The company will showcase its SITEGATE workforce management system, SITENET wireless alarm system, SITEPROTECT temporary safety alarms and Cygnus ALERT cloud-based monitoring platform.

SITEGATE includes modules for workforce control, inductions and delivery tracking.

SITENET provides an EN 54 certified wireless fire alarm system for construction sites.

SITEPROTECT offers wireless alarms for emergencies and intrusions.

Cygnus ALERT allows real-time monitoring of site events and alarm network performance.

The Fire 360° service delivers fire risk assessments, equipment servicing and asset tracking.

All products integrate into a wider safety ecosystem designed to improve operational efficiency and support environmental goals.

Bull Products will demonstrate these systems at stand 4/G20 during the Fire Safety Event 2025.

JEM Systems sets out plain steps for inspection readiness

by Featured NewsFire Detection

JEM Systems guidance on fire alarm compliance

JEM Systems has published guidance for fire alarm installers on issues that can delay final inspections and on steps that can help projects meet fire and life safety code requirements.

The company said final inspection can still fail when installation work does not match the applicable fire code, even when a project has been completed on time and within budget.

Common causes of failed inspections include redline drawings or as-built records that do not reflect site conditions.

The guidance also points to equipment that is not UL listed or is installed outside approved specifications.

It adds that undocumented field modifications can cause delays when revised drawings have not been submitted for review.

Poor wire management, unclear device labelling and improper mounting were also identified as recurring inspection issues.

JEM Systems details installer responsibilities

JEM Systems stated that installers are responsible for following engineered drawings without deviation and for keeping redline documentation up to date through the project.

The guidance says devices should be clearly labelled and installation work should remain orderly.

It also says equipment used on site should match approved submittals.

Installers are advised to review the full submittal package before work begins and keep records accurate through the installation process.

The company also recommends avoiding undocumented field changes and raising any compliance questions with suppliers.

It said inspection expectations can vary between jurisdictions, making local Authority Having Jurisdiction requirements an important part of project planning.

JEM Systems said it works with installers during design, installation and inspection, including plan production, revisions for field changes, code-compliant equipment supply and direct coordination with Authorities Having Jurisdiction where needed.

The guidance presents code compliance as a shared task across designers, installers, suppliers and enforcement authorities during the course of a fire alarm project.

FireAngel CO alarm named Which? Best Buy in UK safety product review

by Featured NewsFire Detection

FA3322 carbon monoxide alarm awarded Best Buy by Which?

FireAngel has been awarded a Which? Best Buy rating for its FA3322 Digital Display Carbon Monoxide alarm. The award was given in November 2024.

According to FireAngel, the FA3322 was designed for use in bedrooms and living spaces, providing audible and visual warnings if carbon monoxide, temperature or humidity levels become dangerous.

The device includes a digital screen which displays CO levels, temperature, and humidity, alongside written alerts.

FireAngel confirmed that the FA3322 includes a sealed battery with a 10-year lifespan and two separate test functions.

One function provides a quieter sound to confirm device operation, while the other simulates the full-volume alert for emergency use.

FA3322 features visual alerts and long-life battery

The FA3322 includes a real-time operating system, which FireAngel said was a first for its alarm products.

An employee at FireAngel said: “Four teams across the business worked together to design and build the FA3322 with the purpose keeping homeowners safe and providing them with peace of mind.

“This alarm is the first FireAngel alarm to use our real time operating system which makes the device so easy to use for the homeowner.”

The same source added: “The teams worked tirelessly to perfect and test the FA3322 to make sure the CO sensing, sound output level, display and functionality are top quality and are fully compliant with the highest safety standards.

“We are proud to have received this recognition from Which? after the hard work that all of our team put into it.”

Other FireAngel devices also recognised in the Which? review

Two additional FireAngel alarms were recognised during the same Which? product review.

The FireAngel FA3820 was described as a premium model and recognised for its ability to detect CO at all levels, including low but hazardous concentrations.

The FireAngel FA3313 was described by the Which? review team as a cost-effective option that delivered sufficient volume during alert conditions.

All three products reviewed were made available in the UK

The FA3322, FA3820 and FA3313 are all available to consumers in the United Kingdom.

Each device is designed to provide CO detection and has been manufactured by FireAngel Safety Technology.

The Which? Best Buy status is given to products that perform strongly in independent testing conducted by Which? experts.

No endorsement or promotional statement was issued by Which? beyond the published test results.

FireAngel FA3322 CO alarm named Which? Best Buy in UK safety product review: Summary

FireAngel received a Which? Best Buy award for its FA3322 Digital Display Carbon Monoxide alarm in November 2024.

The device features a digital display that shows CO levels, temperature and humidity, and includes a sealed battery designed to last 10 years.

The alarm offers two testing functions, one of which is quieter to reduce disruption.

FireAngel stated that four teams collaborated to develop the device using a real-time operating system.

In addition to the FA3322, two other FireAngel alarms received recognition from the Which? review team: the FA3820, which was praised for accurate detection of all CO levels, and the FA3313, which was noted for affordability and sufficient loudness.

All three alarms are available in the UK.

Which? Best Buy ratings are based on independent testing and do not represent endorsements.

Cygnus SmartNet celebrates two years of EN 54 certification at UK Fire Safety Event

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Detection

SmartNet to mark EN 54 certification milestone at UK exhibition

Cygnus has announced it will commemorate the two-year anniversary of its SmartNet fire alarm system receiving EN 54 certification at The Fire Safety Event 2025.

The announcement was made ahead of the exhibition taking place at the NEC in Birmingham from 8 to 10 April 2025.

SmartNet is described by Cygnus as the world’s first 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system to receive EN 54 certification.

The system is also BS5839-1 compliant and is designed to be up to 20 times faster to install than traditional wired systems.

Cygnus to highlight full SmartNet range including SmartNet-Pro and SmartNet-100

The company will use its stand (4/G20) to demonstrate SmartNet’s wireless mesh technology and showcase its full product range.

SmartNet-Pro can support up to 511 devices per panel and includes functionality for up to 96 zones.

Multiple panels can be connected via a software release code to enable a system of more than 2500 devices.

Cygnus will also present SmartNet-100, which has been developed for smaller-scale applications.

It supports up to 100 devices and provides a more cost-effective alternative to SmartNet-Pro while using the same core technology.

New accessories expand system capability and support installation process

Cygnus will also highlight its range of SmartNet accessories at the event.

These include Cygnus ALERT, a monitoring and notification platform that provides real-time updates about fire events, faults and mesh network status.

Other tools include the Cygnus Mesh Analyser, the Portable Programming Unit (PPU) for firmware updates, and the Site Survey Kit, which helps assess the environment’s suitability before full installation.

According to Cygnus, these additions support installers and end-users by simplifying the setup process and improving system performance.

SmartNet has been adopted across a range of building types

Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales at Cygnus, commented on the adoption of the system and its ongoing development:

“Over the past two years, SmartNet has been widely adopted across various sectors, from commercial and industrial properties to high-rise buildings and public institutions.”

He added: “Our SmartNet range has continued to develop over the last year, and we have introduced a comprehensive accessories range to complement the system including Cygnus ALERT, a remote monitoring and notification platform, the new Cygnus Mesh Analyser, Portable Programming Unit (PPU) and the Site Survey Kit.

“We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to our stand and celebrating two years of SmartNet.”

SmartNet celebrates two years of EN 54 certification at UK Fire Safety Event: Summary

Cygnus has confirmed it will mark the two-year anniversary of SmartNet achieving EN 54 certification at The Fire Safety Event 2025 in Birmingham.

SmartNet is a 100% wireless, BS5839-1 compliant fire detection and alarm system.

It is designed to be installed up to 20 times faster than traditional wired systems.

The system includes SmartNet-Pro, which can support more than 2500 devices across multiple panels, and SmartNet-100, which is suited to smaller sites.

Cygnus will also display its accessory tools including Cygnus ALERT, the Mesh Analyser, the Portable Programming Unit and the Site Survey Kit.

According to Cygnus, SmartNet has been deployed in commercial, industrial, high-rise and public sector buildings.

The Fire Safety Event takes place at the NEC from 8 to 10 April 2025.

Cygnus will be exhibiting on stand 4/G20.

Custom fire safety system implemented in major UK warehouse by Siemens and EDSB

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Large-scale fire system installed at Warrington logistics site

Siemens has reported that a collaborative project with EDSB has led to the installation of a fire detection and air sampling system at a warehouse facility in Warrington, operated by a major UK retailer.

The warehouse spans 81,570 square metres and includes multiple mezzanine levels, offices and storage areas for items such as aerosols and batteries.

The scale and complexity of the site required a multi-technology approach tailored to the building’s layout and environmental conditions.

Over 1,000 devices were installed across the facility.

EDSB’s design team developed a BS:5839 Part 1 system aligned to Category L1/P1 standards.

This included low-level test points, pipe runs of over 200 metres, infrared linear beam detectors and triple infrared flame detectors.

Addressing false alarms and ceiling height detection

A key consideration was preventing false alarms, which could lead to costly four-hour halts in operations.

Siemens and EDSB designed a hybrid fire detection system capable of distinguishing between dust, smoke and exhaust fumes, reducing the risk of unnecessary shutdowns.

High ceilings reaching up to 43 metres presented detection challenges due to stratification.

This was addressed using Siemens’ aspirating smoke detection (ASD) technology.

Pipework and air sampling units were strategically placed at height, with installation beginning once the roof structure was completed.

The system was tested and calibrated following installation to ensure it functioned effectively across the varied conditions within the warehouse.

Project planning integrated with construction schedule

The fire safety installation ran concurrently with the construction of the warehouse.

Siemens and EDSB coordinated with construction managers to align installation with building phases.

Planning meetings were held to evaluate access, space limitations and scheduling.

Geoff Wain, Senior Project Manager at EDSB, said: “This project has been a coordinated effort from the design stage through to installation and commissioning, primarily utilising in-house engineers.

“A dedicated site project engineer handled daily communication with our client to ensure that the phased works were completed on time, delivering the project to the end client.”

Alistair Lyon, Install Leader at EDSB, said: “I believe what we have achieved is something that should be celebrated.

“This has been a long, challenging and complex installation and we have delivered an end product that we can all look back on and say we are proud to have been a part of.”

Centralised system management and integration

The warehouse features a Desigo CC building management head end that integrates fire detection data with HVAC and maintenance systems.

This allows operators to view all building systems through a single interface.

Desigo CC enables the centralised monitoring of fire safety and building operations.

It is connected with the on-site computerised maintenance management system (CMMS), using its open architecture for full integration.

John Fennah from Siemens said: “At Siemens we always strive to work closely with our partners and this application is an excellent example of how such an approach can achieve the best solution.

“By understanding and addressing the specific challenges presented by this warehouse, EDSB were able to match the appropriate technology with the different requirements, arriving at an integrated system which optimises fire safety while effectively managing the HVAC.”

The fire system includes nine networked Siemens fire panels, 34 Siemens aspirator panels and over 30 high-level Siemens beam detectors.

Around 200 interfaces support third-party shutdown controls across the facility.

Custom fire safety system implemented in major UK warehouse by Siemens and EDSB: Summary

Siemens and EDSB have completed a fire detection system installation at a logistics warehouse in Warrington.

The facility covers 81,570 square metres and includes multiple types of storage and work areas.

Over 1,000 detection devices were installed.

EDSB’s system design followed BS:5839 Part 1 and Category L1/P1 standards.

The solution includes infrared beam detectors, aspirating smoke detection and flame detectors.

A hybrid system was implemented to reduce false alarms caused by dust and fumes.

High ceilings were addressed with air sampling systems placed at height.

Installation was coordinated with construction schedules.

Desigo CC was used as the building management system, integrating HVAC, fire safety and maintenance platforms.

Siemens fire panels, beam detectors and aspirator panels were networked throughout the facility.

Around 200 interfaces allow third-party system shutdowns.

The system was tested and calibrated post-installation.

Blackline Safety named among Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2025

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionSafety

Blackline Safety recognised for workplace safety technology

Blackline Safety has been included in Fast Company’s 2025 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies.

Fast Company publishes an annual ranking highlighting organisations making advancements in their respective industries.

Blackline Safety was named alongside companies such as Waymo, Nvidia, and Kraft Heinz.

The recognition was based on Blackline’s work in connected safety technology, which aims to improve workplace safety through real-time data, live monitoring, and automated alerts.

Cody Slater, Blackline Safety CEO and Chair, said: “We’re proud to be recognised by Fast Company for leading the transformation of workplace safety, helping organisations protect their people with smarter, more reliable solutions.”

Expansion of connected safety solutions

Blackline Safety provides connected wearable devices, portable area monitors, and cloud-based software to support workplace safety.

These technologies enable real-time monitoring and incident detection.

In 2024, the company expanded its product range with the introduction of the EXO 8 area monitor.

The device is designed for industrial and emergency response environments, offering rapid deployment and gas and gamma detection capabilities.

The company states that its solutions help teams respond faster, prevent incidents, and improve decision-making through real-time safety insights.

Fast Company’s recognition of industry leaders

Fast Company’s annual Most Innovative Companies list features businesses that it identifies as shaping their industries through creativity and technological advancement.

The 2025 list includes companies recognised for their contributions across multiple sectors.

The publication states that its selection criteria focus on organisations that are setting new benchmarks for performance, innovation, and industry progress.

The full list of honourees is available online and will be published in print on 25 March.

Blackline Safety named among Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2025: Summary

Blackline Safety has been included in Fast Company’s 2025 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies.

The ranking acknowledges businesses making industry advancements.

Blackline Safety was recognised for its role in developing connected safety technology, which includes real-time monitoring, automated incident alerts, and location-based insights.

In 2024, the company launched the EXO 8 area monitor, designed for rapid deployment in industrial and emergency response settings.

The device enhances gas and gamma detection capabilities.

Fast Company’s annual list highlights companies it identifies as industry leaders through innovation and impact.

The full list is available online and will be published in print on 25 March.