Cygnus to introduce Cygnus ALERT at The Fire Safety Event 2024

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Innovative addition to fire safety technology

Cygnus, a leader in 100% wireless, EN 54 certified fire detection and alarm systems, is set to debut of its Cygnus ALERT, a remote notification and monitoring platform, at The Fire Safety Event 2024.

This addition marks a significant advancement in fire safety technology, providing real-time information on events, faults, or mesh network status to integrators and site administrators.

The launch will take place on Stand 5/D10, following the success of the SmartNet fire detection and alarm system range.

The Fire Safety Event, dedicated to enhancing fire safety management standards, will host Cygnus from 30th April to 2nd May at the NEC Birmingham.

Cygnus ALERT, designed for seamless integration with the SmartNet systems, can be fitted during installation or retrofitted into existing setups, ensuring rapid response capabilities to on-site situations.

Cygnus’ commitment to fire safety innovation

Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales at Cygnus, expressed enthusiasm for the new platform: “We are excited to introduce Cygnus ALERT at the Fire Safety Event.

We had a very successful show last year and a really positive response from the industry with the launch of our SmartNet solution.

Now we’re back with this innovative accompaniment to the range, reinforcing our commitment to advancing fire safety technology.

We believe the combination of SmartNet and Cygnus ALERT will empower individuals to enhance their fire safety protocols whilst simultaneously safeguarding lives and property more effectively.”

Attendees at The Fire Safety Event will have the chance to explore the SmartNet range, known for its reliability, adaptability, and installation efficiency.

The range includes the scalable SmartNet-Pro and the versatile SmartNet-100, catering to various project requirements.

Enhancing fire safety through education

Additionally, Cygnus will highlight its Cygnus Academy and the recently launched Technology and Training Centre (TTC) in Meriden, Birmingham.

This expansion of the Cygnus Academy offers high-quality training for installers on SmartNet technology, ensuring proper system installation and enhancing fire safety knowledge.

For more details, visitors are encouraged to visit Cygnus’ stand 5/D10 at The Fire Safety Event 2024 or explore their website.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of Cygnus ALERT at The Fire Safety Event 2024 underlines the ongoing innovation within the fire safety industry.

This platform complements the existing SmartNet system, elevating the standards of fire safety management through advanced technology.

By enabling real-time monitoring and notifications, Cygnus is set to provide a more responsive and efficient approach to fire safety, which is crucial for the protection of lives and properties.

This development represents a forward step in the industry’s efforts to integrate technology with fire safety protocols, ensuring a safer environment for all.

Detection dynamics with Global Fire Equipment

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

João Paulo Ajami, Managing Director of Global Fire Equipment (GFE) outlines the key factors to take into consideration when designing fire detection and alarm systems for hotels

Over the years, Global Fire Equipment (GFE) has designed, supplied and commissioned fire detection and alarm systems (FDASs) for a number of hotels globally, including some of the world’s largest hotel chains such as Radisson Blu, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts and Vila Galé.

Designing FDASs for hotels can be complex. Depending on their size, hotels can be occupied by hundreds if not thousands of people when the staff, guests and other visitors are taken into account.

This sheer volume of traffic and level of occupancy is a challenge, but you also have to take into account that hotels often cover vast areas and regularly incorporate high-rise buildings or different types of connected buildings such as spas, health clubs, meeting rooms, restaurants, bars and children’s clubs.

The combination of these factors means that designing FDASs for hotels presents a number of unique challenges.

Clarity of communication is key

The importance of clarity of communication about every fire event across the entire system cannot be underestimated when designing FDASs for hotels, and even more so for larger hotels.

To ensure the safety of a hotel’s occupants and staff, the fire detection and alarm control panels must be capable of continually monitoring each individual device on the system and logging every event.

This enables those responsible for monitoring and managing the system to take immediate action and respond – irrespective of whether there is a genuine fire event, a false/unwanted alarm or a fault condition.

The primary goal is to provide for timely alarm notifications and the safety of all occupants in accordance with an evacuation strategy which should be designed and tested to avoid panic and confusion in exit routes.

Addressing the challenge of false alarms

Although it is difficult to completely eradicate false or unwanted alarms, developing a robust emergency and management strategy will help to reduce instances as it will ensure minimum inconvenience in the event of an alarm.

Working alongside safety specialists and authorities to develop a Transmission Delay approach can also be useful to ensure there is a well-planned phased evacuation strategy, alongside a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP).

Thankfully there are far fewer incidences of false alarms today due to advances in fire detection technology and premises management.

Why a one size fits all approach doesn’t work

As every individual hotel presents its own issues that need specific management, a one size fits all approach simply doesn’t work.

When it comes to a hotel’s accommodation areas, each room has to be assessed for the type of guests in occupancy and fitted with adequate audible/intelligible alarms, visual Alarm Devices and, where necessary, vibrating devices.

However, when it comes to a hotel’s communal areas such as restaurants and bars, they need a dedicated wide area audible/intelligible alarm and visual alarm devices.

Each area of a hotel will have different hazards so the system also has to be designed to cope with varying levels of compliant sensitivity requirements, and each area must be protected with the right type of fire sensor.

During working hours, for example, a kitchen area should have heat detectors or multi-sensors configured for heat only.

Where the control and indicating equipment is positioned is also important.

In the event of a fire event, the hotel’s emergency team and the first responders arriving on scene must be able to access the event information in strategic locations throughout the premises.

This information can be delivered in a number of ways, including via SMS pager messages or the strategic placement of additional control and indicating equipment (repeaters).

One of the most common mistakes is the placement of detectors in a hotel bedroom’s entry hall, close to or in front of the bathroom door.

This can result in false alarms due to water vapour/steam ingress in the detector chamber.

In standard hotel rooms (from 15 to 30sqm), the ideal placement of a smoke detector is in the centre of the sleeping area.

The importance of resilient networking

A system survivability performance specification must be incorporated within the scope of works by system specifiers.

The design, installation and type of products used in the system should be compliant and verified against the system survivability time specified.

With the requirement of distributed systems, GFE has manufactured highly resilient networked FDASs since the company was established in 1994.

We use highly robust physical layers such as enhanced fire-resistant cabling and we insist on using fully redundant multi-master peer-to-peer network technology which can also be further enhanced in a mesh topology to increase the systems survivability rating.

With our current range of fire control panels, we can achieve distributed architectures with up to 128 loops and we can network 64 of those with our top layer of Building Management System (BMS) monitoring.

Our sophisticated networking capability and the cause-and-effect software analyses exactly what is going on across systems, providing invaluable information to aid decision making.

To conclude, designing FDASs for hotels is complex because a number of additional factors need to be taken into account, including high occupancy coupled with unfamiliarity, complex layouts, varied use spaces and compliance.

Case Study: GFE solutions chosen for Mövenpick Hotel Cebu in the Philippines

Fire detection solutions GFE have been chosen to protect guests, staff and visitors at the 5-star Mövenpick Hotel Cebu on Mactan Island in the Philippines.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, part of the Accor S.A., are the sixth largest hospitality company worldwide.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has over 80 properties globally, including hotels, resorts and Nile cruisers.

Located just 15 minutes away from Mactan Cebu International Airport, Mövenpick Hotel Cebu is a luxury Mediterranean-inspired beachfront hotel.

The hotel comprises 245 guest rooms with private balconies, along with meeting and event facilities, three restaurants, a selection of bars, a 24-hour gym, a swimming pool, a children’s club and a private beach with a club.

The hotel and grounds was severely damaged at the end of 2021 when the Philippines was hit by a Category 5 super typhoon, Odette, which swept through 11 of the country’s 17 regions, causing a trail of destruction, killing 410 people and causing damage estimated to have cost about £972m.

Although the hotel’s structure remained intact, its interior suffered extensive damage and the windows were all destroyed.

The hotel’s beach bar was swept away into the sea, and a 12,000-tonne ship was washed up onto the hotel’s private beach.

The extensive restoration work on the hotel has taken around two years, but today Mövenpick Hotel Cebu is once again welcoming guests from around the world.

The chosen 12-loop fire detection and alarm system comprises fire alarm control panels from GFE’s OCTO+ range, along with approximately 800 ZEOS AS-S smoke detectors, 37 ZEOS AS-H heat detectors, 71 manual call points, 65 sounders and 27 i/o modules.

The installation of the new fire detection system was completed in phases, allowing the refurbishment work to continue as quickly as practicable.

For further information on Global Fire Equipment, please visit www.globalfire-equipment.com.

This article was originally published in the April 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Wireless fire alarm system from Cygnus enhances safety at Dartford’s temporary theatre

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Innovative solution for temporary venue

In response to the unique challenge posed by the temporary theatre in Dartford, Blake Fire & Security and Illumino Ignis (Kent) Ltd (IIKL) have successfully implemented the Cygnus EN 54 certified, fully wireless SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm system.

This system was chosen to meet the stringent fire safety requirements of the new venue, which aims to host 1,091 audience members while the main Orchard Theatre undergoes RAAC Works.

With a critical turnaround of just one week, the selection of SmartNet-Pro guarantees compliance with EN 54 and BS5839 Part 1 standards, providing an aesthetically pleasing and swiftly installable solution that supports the operational dynamics of the theatre.

The Cygnus technology behind the solution

The SmartNet-Pro system’s wireless network, powered by patented Cygnus technology, operates through battery-powered radio devices.

This forms a robust, self-healing mesh network ensuring maximum reliability with at least two communication paths for every device.

Rory Foster, Fire Safety Systems Manager at Blake Fire & Security, remarked: “We have worked with Cygnus and the SmartNet-Pro system previously and knew it would be ideal for this unique project.

“Being 100% wireless, robust, and reliable, it met the project’s complex requirements perfectly. The Cygnus team’s support was instrumental in delivering the project efficiently.”

Tailored features for theatre operations

Addressing the theatre’s specific needs, the system incorporates advanced features like a “Show Mode” to isolate smoke detection during performances, while maintaining heat detection functionality.

This thoughtful integration ensures the system’s adaptability to special effects and environmental factors within the venue.

Furthermore, the installation includes a strategy to prevent false alarms during performances, enhancing safety without compromising the audience’s experience.

The SmartNet-Pro system’s versatility was demonstrated through its ability to support 65 devices, installed within two days, showcasing its suitability for rapid deployment in complex environments.

Comprehensive approach to fire safety

Blake Fire & Security and IIKL provided a holistic service from site survey and design to installation, closely collaborating with the theatre and local authorities to ensure a seamless process.

Post-installation, comprehensive training was provided to the Stage Door crew, equipping them with the knowledge to operate the system’s advanced functions effectively.

IFSJ Comment

The collaboration between Blake Fire & Security, IIKL, and Cygnus to equip Dartford’s temporary theatre with a cutting-edge wireless fire alarm system represents a forward-thinking approach to fire safety in unique and temporary entertainment venues.

This initiative not only demonstrates the technical feasibility of deploying advanced, wireless fire safety systems in challenging environments but also underscores the industry’s commitment to ensuring the safety of audiences and staff.

By prioritising quick installation, aesthetic integration, and operational specificity, this project sets a new standard for fire safety in temporary venues, reflecting a broader trend towards more adaptable and technologically advanced fire safety solutions in the entertainment sector.

Fire Industry Association has released guidance on maintenance-free connections for fire alarm systems

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Detection

Overview of the new technical bulletin

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published a critical guidance document addressing the use of maintenance-free connections in the installation of fire detection and fire alarm systems, ensuring adherence to the BS 5839-1 standards.

This publication provides clarity on frequently asked questions regarding the permissible use of such connections in non-domestic settings.

The guidance emphasises the importance of avoiding external joints in cable installations but allows for certain exceptions under specific conditions.

Key recommendations and industry misconceptions

According to the newly released bulletin, maintenance-free connectors may be used under certain conditions, such as within system components like manual call points or fire detectors.

However, the document also highlights common misconceptions in the industry, such as the unnecessary requirement for metal or galvanised boxes for external joints.

The FIA’s guidance specifies that the choice of material for the box is not mandated by BS 5839-1, but other factors, like isolation from true earth, may influence this decision.

Importance of adhering to fire-resistance standards

The guidance underlines the criticality of using connections that match the fire-resistance capabilities of the cables they join.

For external joints, terminals should be made of materials that can withstand similar temperatures and durations to the cables themselves.

It raises concerns about the suitability of maintenance-free connectors in critical signal paths due to their lower operating temperatures compared to the required fire-resistant standards for cables.

IFSJ Comment

The Fire Industry Association‘s latest guidance on maintenance-free connections offers valuable clarification for professionals in the fire safety sector.

By delineating the conditions under which these connectors can be used, the FIA helps ensure that fire detection and alarm systems remain effective and compliant with BS 5839-1 standards.

This guidance is particularly relevant as it addresses common misconceptions and provides a clear directive on maintaining the integrity of fire safety systems.

Adhering to these standards is crucial for the reliability of fire detection and alarm systems, ultimately safeguarding lives and property.

Teledyne introduces advanced gas detection technology with MEMS sensors

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

New MEMS sensor technology enhances flammable gas detection

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection has unveiled its OLCT 100-XP-MS range, incorporating MEMS (Micro-ElectroMechanical Systems) sensor technology.

This innovative approach offers precise detection of over 14 common combustible gases, including hydrogen, methane, propane, and butane.

MEMS technology surpasses traditional sensors in accuracy, ‘poison’ immunity, and longevity, especially in environments challenging for catalytic sensors.

A comprehensive solution for various industries

The OLCT 100-XP-MS detectors present a unified solution for detecting flammable gases, merging catalytic oxidation, IR, and MEMS sensor technologies.

This device is particularly beneficial for sectors such as petrochemical, oil and gas, along with applications in lithium-ion BESS, industrial manufacturing, wastewater treatment, and fire response.

Emphasis on accuracy and reliability

Régis Prévost, Product Line Manager at Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection, highlighted the system’s capabilities: “Our flammable gas detector with thermal conductivity technology supported by MEMS sensor provides accurate, automatic readings without correction factors, along with automatic gas classification.

“Delivering unprecedented reliability and accuracy, the device reduces false alarms thanks to integral compensation for environmental parameters that include temperature, pressure and humidity.”

 The unique construction of the OLCT100-XP-MS ensures operational reliability with minimal maintenance, backed by a two-year warranty.

Prévost also noted the detector’s durable design: “With its robust design and highly engineered construction, our low-maintenance OLCT100-XP-MS comes with a two-year warranty.

He added: “Indeed, such is our confidence in this innovative flammable gas detector that users can expect many years of reliable and accurate operation in the most demanding industry applications.”

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the OLCT 100-XP-MS gas detectors with MEMS sensor technology by Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection represents a significant advancement in the field of gas detection.

The move towards integrating MEMS technology into gas detection devices aligns with the industry’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures in various sectors, including petrochemical, oil and gas, and emergency response.

As the demand for innovative solutions to detect flammable gases continues to grow, the development and implementation of MEMS technology signify a forward step in meeting these needs effectively.

Euralarm welcomes Detectortesters as a new member, enhancing fire safety expertise

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Detectortesters joins Euralarm, strengthening fire safety innovation

Euralarm has officially welcomed Detectortesters as its newest member.

This decision, ratified by Euralarm’s Board, sees Detectortesters joining both the Fire Section and Services Section of the association.

Detectortesters, renowned as the global leader in designing and manufacturing functional test solutions for fire detection systems, brings over five decades of expertise in the field.

Their extensive product range, including the Solo, Testifire, Scorpion, and SmokeSabre series, is designed to facilitate compliant functional testing of smoke, heat, CO fire detectors, and Aspirating Smoke Detection (ASD) systems.

Benefits of joining Euralarm for member companies

Membership in Euralarm offers unparalleled insights into the European fire and security markets, opening up opportunities for companies to tap into a wealth of political expertise and EU policy understanding.

It facilitates networking with technical and political experts, potentially paving the way for new business partnerships.

“Companies joining Euralarm get a unique insight into what is happening on other European markets and the opportunities that they might offer,” stated a spokesperson from Euralarm.

Furthermore, members can influence standardisation and legislative processes, ensuring their voices are heard at the heart of Brussels.

Impact on standardisation and fire safety technology

Euralarm’s Fire Section is dedicated to monitoring and analysing technological developments, offering guidance on prioritisation and standardisation efforts.

This proactive approach helps members understand the impact of new technologies and supports the balance between regulatory and voluntary requirements.

The Services Section, meanwhile, focuses on safeguarding emerging fire and security services, informing members of changes in standards and advocacy activities.

IFSJ Comment

Detectortesters’ expertise in developing testing solutions for fire detection systems complements Euralarm’s mission to influence and shape industry standards and regulations.

By joining forces, Euralarm and Detectortesters are set to drive progress in fire safety, benefiting stakeholders across Europe.

TOA announces strategic alliance with Eaton for advanced voice evacuation systems

by Featured NewsFire Detection

A new era in emergency voice communications

TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, a leader in voice alarm systems, has announced a groundbreaking global partnership with Eaton.

This collaboration focuses on Eaton’s Emergency Voice Communications Systems, VoCALL5 and VoCALL16.

TOA, renowned for its expertise in voice alarm systems and its involvement in numerous life safety projects worldwide, will now integrate Eaton’s EVCS portfolio into its offerings.

This partnership is set to redefine emergency evacuation protocols by providing a comprehensive vocal solution to life safety evacuation.

Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director of TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, expressed his enthusiasm: “I am delighted to be bringing our two companies together to continue to lead on offering solutions on products that are vital to evacuation in an emergency.

“The world is changing, and as an industry, we must address how we ensure safety both with those that can follow voice direction and exit a building to those that need additional assistance.”

A commitment to inclusive safety solutions

This alliance signifies a significant advancement in ensuring comprehensive safety for all community members during emergencies.

Colin Smith, OEM Business Development for Eaton, highlighted the shared vision: “This partnership shows how passionate we are about solving issues and making evacuation a better and safer experience for all members of the community. You cannot put a price on people’s safety.

“We are looking forward to working together with TOA to provide the best solutions for emergency communication.”

Showcasing innovations at the Fire Safety Event 2024

The integration of Eaton’s product range with TOA’s voice alarm systems will be showcased at TOA’s stand, 5/E95, during the Fire Safety Event 2024 at the NEC Birmingham, scheduled from 30 April to 2 May.

This event presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders in the fire safety industry to witness firsthand the capabilities of this integrated partnership.

IFSJ Comment

The partnership between TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd and Eaton in enhancing emergency voice communication systems is a strategic step in advancing life safety measures.

This collaboration brings together two leaders in the field, leveraging their strengths to offer complete and inclusive solutions for emergency evacuations.

It reflects an understanding of the diverse needs within our communities and a commitment to addressing these challenges innovatively.

By combining their expertise, TOA and Eaton are setting a new standard in emergency preparedness, ensuring effective communication and safety for all.

Embracing emerging technologies with Comelit-PAC

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

Mandy Bowden, Comelit-PAC Fire Manager, investigates how fire safety systems are rapidly evolving to adopt the latest technology

As the industry continues to innovate and adapt, it is poised to redefine standards in fire safety, ensuring comprehensive protection and peace of mind for all.

 We have a duty of care and responsibility to stay one step ahead when it comes to embracing the possibilities.

Not least to counter challenges to the market, with the growth in legislation and the introduction of both the Fire Safety Act and the Building Safety Act requiring much more stringent standards across buildings, from historical sites to modern residential complexes.

 Now is the year of coordinated action for fire safety, where each site has bespoke requirements that must be accommodated.

We are at a crossroads where we can embrace the latest technology to establish more advanced solutions than the “wake and watch’ scenarios, particularly in concrete structures, residential developments and even educational institutions.

Embracing technological innovations

As the industry embraces technological innovations, wireless systems and cloud-based platforms are becoming integral components of modern fire safety solutions.

These advancements enable seamless integration, remote monitoring, and enhanced data analytics, empowering stakeholders with real-time insights and proactive response mechanisms.

Wireless systems offer greater flexibility and scalability, allowing for easier installation and adaptation to evolving needs.

Cloud-based platforms enable centralised management and accessibility, facilitating efficient administration and maintenance of fire safety systems across diverse portfolios.

Meeting end-user and installer needs

As an industry, whilst it is critical to embrace the new technologies available to us, we must align their capabilities with the needs of both end users and installers.

For end-users, our focus is on delivering intuitive, user-friendly solutions that ensure seamless integration into daily operations and provide peace of mind in terms of safety and compliance.

There is also the adaptability of fire safety systems to suit the bespoke requirements of a building and not least blend with their environment, whilst maintaining their safety functionality.

 And we have to be aware that all of this must be achieved with no compromise on style or design.

For installers, simplicity and cost-effectiveness are critical.

This is where the benefits of wireless fire safety systems have proven a success.

 Unlike traditional wired systems, which require extensive cabling and infrastructure, the latest wireless fire alarm systems utilise wireless connectivity for seamless communication between devices.

 All saving time, resources and cost.

Designing for bespoke building requirements

Designing fire safety systems for bespoke building characteristics and requirements for fire safety all can be determined with a detailed risk assessment.

If we take heritage buildings as an example, there is a need to consider factors such as the structure and architecture of the building, the number of occupants, evacuation routes, accessibility requirements, and the presence of valuable artefacts or collections that may require special protection.

By carefully addressing these considerations and collaborating with preservation experts, architects, and fire safety professionals, a fire safety solution can achieve this.

As a balance between preserving their historic significance and implementing robust fire protection measures tailored to their unique challenges and requirements.

Heritage buildings are also subject to strict preservation regulations and guidelines that govern modifications and additions.

Fire safety systems must comply with these regulations while addressing the specific challenges posed by historic structures.

The wireless systems emerging are perfectly suited here, by eliminating the need for wiring and cabling that can be disruptive and damaging to historic building fabric.

The wireless fire alarm system also offers greater flexibility in its placement and configuration of detection devices, allowing for customisation to suit the layout and architectural features of any historical building.

This adaptability ensures comprehensive coverage while accommodating unique structural elements and spatial constraints.

Reducing reliance on waking watch facilities

In line with Government objectives, there is an increased call to find more effective ways to reduce reliance on waking watch facilities.

With our addressable wireless devices, we can identify specific points, areas or zones selectively in a building.

In educational institutions with multiple buildings or wings, point-specific alerting helps localise alarms to affected areas, preventing unnecessary disruption.

Comelit-PAC’s imminent launch of its wireless alarm systems presents a conventional or addressable transceiver which may be installed as a standalone unit with a conventional panel.

 It scales from one transceiver per zone up to a maximum of 5 zones or on the loop of the LogiFire system, with a maximum of 5 transceivers per addressable panel.

Associated voice evacuation systems provide clear, intelligible instructions to occupants during emergencies, guiding them to evacuate safely and calmly.

Pre-recorded messages or live announcements can be broadcast throughout the facility, ensuring effective communication in concrete buildings and large educational campuses.

Remote maintenance and monitoring

Wireless communication technology ensures reliable transmission of alarm signals and emergency notifications, enabling timely response to alerts and incidents.

Mobile applications or web-based platforms provide real-time status updates and offer remote control of system functions, enhancing situational awareness and operational efficiency.

The integration of cloud-based solutions in Comelit-PAC’s fire safety systems proactively meets the growing demand for integrated cloud-based technology and the latest legislative requirements for fire safety.

Facility managers, building owners, and authorised personnel can access real-time data, receive alerts, and perform system diagnostics from anywhere, meeting requirements for weekly testing and providing enhanced situational awareness and appropriate response instantly.

Looking ahead

As we navigate through this era of change and innovation, the future of fire safety systems holds immense promise.

We are keeping an eye on opportunities that can quickly enable predictive analytics and intelligent decision-making.

These capabilities empower systems to analyse vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and anticipate potential hazards before they escalate into emergencies.

In the not-too-distant future, we are excited by the possibilities and potential of AI and machine learning technologies to enhance fire safety by enabling more accurate detection, early warning systems, and adaptive response strategies.

And exploring the integration of AI algorithms into its fire safety solutions to improve detection accuracy, reduce false alarms, and enhance overall system reliability.

Across our global reach and all that we do for our customers and installers, we have an ongoing commitment to sustainability.

 This includes ensuring all our activities encourage environmental resource use.

 It means developing fire safety solutions that are energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and compliant with environmental regulations.

By embracing the latest technology, staying ahead of regulatory requirements, and fostering collaborative partnerships across the industry, we can collectively raise the bar for safety and resilience in the built environment.

At Comelit-PAC, we remain committed to driving positive change and shaping the future of fire safety.

Through continuous innovation, investment in research and development, proactive engagement, and a steadfast dedication to excellence, we can protect assets, and ensure safer, more secure buildings across every sector for generations to come.

This article was originally published in the March 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

UK Government expands investigation into FireAngel’s acquisition by intelligent safety electronics

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Overview of the Acquisition Deal

The UK government has extended its probe into the acquisition of FireAngel Safety Technology Group PLC by Singapore-based Intelligent Safety Electronics Pte. Ltd.

The deal, valued at £27.7 million ($35 million), has been under scrutiny since its announcement.

FireAngel, known for its fire alarm manufacturing and listed on the London Stock Exchange, confirmed this development in a recent regulatory statement.

The investigation, initiated under Section 23 of the National Security and Investment Act 2021, has led to an extension of the deal’s completion deadline to July 31.

Details of the Ongoing Investigation

The national security probe into this acquisition commenced on December 21.

The UK government will make a decision within 45 working days, with a provision for extension upon mutual agreement.

FireAngel and Intelligent Safety Electronics have responded to this development by adjusting the long stop date for the deal closure.

Legal advisories for the transaction are being provided by Hill Dickinson LLP for Intelligent Safety Electronics and a team from Pinsent Masons LLP, led by Gareth Jones and Sunjay Malhotra, for FireAngel.

Financial Aspects of the Acquisition

Intelligent Safety Electronics, which already holds a 17.46% stake in FireAngel, proposed to acquire the remaining shares at 7.4 pence each, utilizing its cash reserves.

This acquisition followed FireAngel’s strategic review initiated in June, exploring options for a speedy sale.

The review led to discussions with several parties, including Intelligent Safety Electronics.

FireAngel’s directors deemed the offer terms as “fair and reasonable” and recommended acceptance to the shareholders.

Additionally, FireAngel raised £6.1 million through a share sale in June, with plans to secure another £6.1 million to reduce its debts.

IFSJ Comment

The extension of the UK government’s investigation into the acquisition of FireAngel by Intelligent Safety Electronics reflects the meticulous approach taken in transactions involving national security implications.

The situation also demonstrates the intricate balance between financial strategy and regulatory compliance in international business deals.

FireAngel’s decision to undertake a strategic review and its subsequent actions underscore the complexities businesses face in today’s global market.

The outcome of this investigation will be closely monitored by stakeholders and could have broader implications for future cross-border acquisitions in similar sectors.

Hochiki Europe launches new detectors for UL268 7th edition compliance

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Hochiki Europe introduces new smoke detectors for UL approval

Hochiki Europe, a global leader in life safety solutions, has announced the launch of its latest generation of UL listed smoke detectors.

These detectors are designed to meet the stringent requirements of the UL268 7th Edition standards, addressing a vital need for conventional applications requiring UL approval.

The introduction of these detectors is timely, as the UL-268 7th Edition Standard, which dictates the performance requirements for smoke detectors, is set to be enforced from July 2024.

This standard introduces significant advancements in fire detection technology, including the requirement for detectors to identify smouldering and flaming fires fuelled by materials such as polyurethane furniture foam and burning meat, while also minimizing nuisance alarms.

Hochiki’s advanced technology

Hochiki’s new range of detectors showcases several key features that set them apart in the industry.

The company has developed a redesigned smoke chamber to optimize airflow and smoke intake, incorporating multi-spectrum smoke categorization technology.

This innovation ensures an enhanced response to a variety of fire types, meeting the updated UL268 standards.

Additionally, the introduction of dual LED technology, with red and blue internal emitters positioned at different angles, allows Hochiki’s detectors to more effectively distinguish between smoke particle types.

This ensures a higher precision in fire detection, crucial for the safety of small retail units, health clinics, and educational facilities among others.

The detectors are also equipped with advanced algorithms that allow for quicker reaction to genuine fires while significantly reducing false alarms caused by steam and cooking.

This feature ensures reliability and efficiency in diverse environments.

Automatic drift compensation and maintenance indication is another innovative aspect of Hochiki’s detectors.

Software within each detector continually monitors optical elements, adjusting the baseline and fire threshold to maintain correct sensitivity and provide an accurate response.

For more information about Hochiki Europe’s latest products and innovations, please the Hochiki website.

IFSJ comment

Hochiki Europe’s introduction of their new generation of smoke detectors marks a significant advancement in fire safety technology.

By aligning with the UL268 7th Edition standards, these detectors ensure a higher level of safety for conventional applications, reflecting Hochiki’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in life safety solutions.

This development is crucial for the industry, providing a reliable and efficient means of fire detection that addresses both traditional and emerging fire risks.

As the enforcement date of the new standards approaches, Hochiki’s proactive approach sets a benchmark for the industry, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and adherence to regulatory advancements in fire safety.