Advancing safety standards with Siemens

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

Maria Marks, Manager of Industry Relations and Brian Donovan, Product Manager, Digitalisation, at Siemens discuss cloud-connected fire alarm systems

What are cloud-connected fire alarms?

A cloud connected fire alarm system is one that utilises a method of communication from a fire alarm control unit to a cloud server.

Typically, this connected is via an IP/ ethernet or cellular gateway device.

A cloud API (application program interface will process data transmitted via the gateway from the fire alarm panel.

You can then view the data through a browser-based web application or a mobile application.

How has the integration of cloud technology impacted facility managers?

A facility manager can now easily monitor the life safety system on a 24/7 basis.

Cloud services offer features that can provide an entire list of networked panels and peripheral devices on a system, and the diagnostic data from these devices and systems.

You may be surprised to discover the amount of data that can be collected, analysed by the cloud APIs, and provided to the end user.

What are some notable benefits of connecting building systems remotely?

Service efficiency for one.

An example is the ability of a technician to remotely diagnose the system status.

They are able to secure replacement parts/ software updates before traveling to the site.

Additionally, the building owner can store their sites documentation on a cloud database.

This provides the owner and service provider easy access to review the status of the system.

It also be extended to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Can you talk about the impact on first responders?

Cloud-connected fire alarm systems can significantly aid in response time.

A secure open cloud connection to the fire alarm panel provides timely reporting of events.

Although we have monitoring stations and dispatch centres, access to the cloud connected fire alarm system or cloud app notifications add another layer of information for an incident commander or officer.

They can quickly assess the severity of the situation with this updated data.

Additionally, many systems available today have the capability for an owner to subscribe to a notification service.

This service allows its users to receive SMS and email alerts for events such as alarms, troubles, and supervisory conditions.

How is data from fire alarm systems utilised in the cloud?

Data from the fire alarm control unit will typically be transmitted through an on-site cloud gateway (over IP or cellular-based connection in most cases).

Then that data will be processed by some API/software in order to view that data through a web portal or mobile application interface.

The web portal or mobile app can be setup in such a way to analyse this information, such as viewing a smoke detector’s sensitivity value, reading a CO sensor’s PPM value, etc.

The advantage to this being a tool for predictive maintenance (as previously stated) and ensuring that all equipment and peripheral devices are functioning properly on site.

How does cloud connectivity contribute to minimising downtime?

A benefit of remote access/ cloud connectivity is the ability of authorised and qualified personnel to remotely update panel configuration files, access history logs, and even perform “disturbance-free” remote testing of devices with minimal impact to the building occupants.

Cloud connectivity allows the owner to have a holistic view of the life safety system.

It provides a layer of safety and security to the building occupants.

How do you envision the evolution of life safety systems?

Like all technology, the ‘fire cloud’ will continue to evolve along with advancements in hardware and peripheral system devices.

The more data points that sensors can capture, the more that cloud applications can analyse and report.

Predictive maintenance will become more streamlined, and response time to emergencies much faster.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is a trend that is dominating the headlines and is progressing at a rapid pace.

It would not be surprising to see AI and data from the fire cloud be used to enhance predictive maintenance and potentially predict alarm events before they occur.

Of course, there are limitations based on adopted building codes and product standards.

These Life Safety systems and associated building codes and product standards will evolve to meet the needs of the necessary stakeholders.

It will be crucial to leverage cloud connectivity in fire alarm systems and ‘Smart Buildings’ as key factors in promoting safety, security, and preservation of life and property.

What challenges are there when implementing cloud-connected systems?

There are several challenges that the life safety industry may face.

In addition to code adoption, these challenges include cybersecurity and data protection/ veracity.

Cybersecurity is a fundamental concern when it comes to cloud connectivity.

It’s crucial to prevent malicious attacks that could compromise the integrity of the fire alarm system and its peripheral devices.

A Facility manager will need to understand and ask the following questions: Who has access to their system and the data? Where is the data hosted? And how is data being kept secure?

These are legitimate questions that need to be asked by a service provider, facility manager, business owner, AHJ, and other relevant party.

The codes are starting to address the need for cybersecurity protection. NFPA 72 National Fire alarm and Signaling Code included a new chapter on Cybersecurity in the 2022 ed.

This new Chapter 11 provided a pointer to the annex where more detailed information on cybersecurity for fire alarm can be found.

It was key to include this protection as the 2022 edition added the concept of Remote Access for fire alarm systems.

Data veracity or the accuracy of data retrieved from a cloud connected system is an overlooked challenge.

There is no denying that it is beneficial to have vast amounts of data available.

But how do you determine what data is correct and up to date? How can you sort and filter for a specific event?

The answer to these questions will lie in the backend development of cloud applications and API’s bridging the connection between the life safety system and the cloud-based application.

This article was originally published in the October 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Historic brewery receives a modern wireless protection upgrade

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Timothy Taylor’s Brewery undergoes fire safety revamp

Keighley’s historic Timothy Taylor’s Brewery, known for its acclaimed Landlord cask ale, has recently undergone a significant fire safety enhancement.

This upgrade was performed by PWP Fire & Security who installed over 300 Taurus wireless fire devices from Hyfire.

These devices safeguard the iconic brewery site with its oldest structures originating from 1863.

Wireless protection ensures seamless integration

The family-owned brewery was in need of an extensive overhaul of its fire safety systems.

The aim was to offer top-notch protection to both staff and visitors.

This was particularly challenging given the historic nature of the buildings.

In the past, intricate cabling would have been the norm due to the structures’ age and design.

However, thanks to Hyfire’s Taurus devices with their cutting-edge wireless technology and the incorporation of 2 Advanced MxPro fire panels with AlarmCalm false alarm management, the brewery found an efficient solution.

This approach facilitated a prompt installation, leading to reduced expenses and ensuring the brewing activities remained uninterrupted.

Gavin Clarke, Head of Fire at PWP Fire & Security, stated: “It was crucial to maintain the authenticity of this historic location while bolstering fire safety.

“The Taurus wireless devices from Hyfire proved to be the ideal fit. The speed and efficiency of their installation meant minimal disturbance to the brewery’s operations.

“Furthermore, this method significantly curtailed the effect on the buildings’ structural essence.”

Hyfire boasts a vast collection of wireless fire devices adhering to commercial standards.

These range from optical and multi-criteria detectors to EN54-23 Approved VAD’s.

Every product is certified to EN54 and aligns with BS5839 Part 1.

These devices connect to translators via fire panels and can be used independently or combined with Hyfire’s wired devices, granting immense flexibility to specifiers and installers.

Chris McGregor, Regional Sales Manager – East at Hyfire, remarked: “It’s an honour to extend our state-of-the-art wireless fire technology to such a respected establishment as Timothy Taylor’s Brewery.

“The particular needs of this historic site underscore the advantages of our Taurus wireless devices.

“Their efficacy, premium quality, and adaptability, combined with speedy set-up and minimal disturbances, render them ideal for such intricate settings.”

Technical advancements underpin the wireless devices

Born in Trieste, Italy, a hub for wireless fire design, the Taurus is endowed with Pathfinder Technology.

This feature enables these devices to relay information over a distance of 1km in open air, with even more considerable ranges achievable with the use of expansion hops.

Advanced antenna technology ensures communication across varied frequencies, making Taurus more cost-effective with fewer devices and batteries.

Lee Scott, Engineering Manager at Timothy Taylor’s Brewery, shared: “The wellbeing of our team and safeguarding our historical site is crucial.

“The wireless fire devices from Hyfire have showcased excellent efficiency and trustworthiness.

“They guarantee top-tier security for our venue without affecting the heritage of our infrastructures or brewing procedures.”

IFSJ Comment

The recent upgrade at Timothy Taylor’s Brewery underscores the evolution in fire safety.

Utilising wireless protection technology not only streamlines installation but also protects the integrity of historic sites.

With fire safety being of paramount importance, advancements like these by Hyfire and their dedicated partners stand as a testament to the industry’s commitment to combining modern solutions with respect for heritage.

Cygnus unveils the SmartNet-100, a new wireless fire alarm system

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Cygnus has launched its latest offering in the fire detection and alarm system sector, the SmartNet-100.

This fully wireless fire alarm system promises to be a game-changer for small to medium-sized projects, offering both reliability and affordability.

The newest member of the SmartNet family

Building from the success of their SmartNet-Pro fire detection system, Cygnus aims to fill a gap in the market for projects requiring fewer devices.

Unlike the SmartNet-Pro, the SmartNet-100 is tailored for projects needing up to 100 devices connected to a single control panel.

Austen Wells, Sales Manager at Cygnus, shared: “Its speed of install and reliability set it apart from other wired solutions.

“Small to medium-sized projects often cannot afford the downtime, the disruption, or the expense of fitting a wired fire detection and alarm system. SmartNet-100 provides a fast and cost-effective solution.”

Wireless fire alarm advantages

SmartNet-100 is touted to be up to twenty times faster to install compared to other systems.

It efficiently detects potential threats like smoke or fire while minimising false alarms.

Notably, there’s no need for wired elements such as boosters or translators, simplifying the installation process.

Further, this new range allows seamless integration of up to 100 devices from one control panel.

The network utilises battery-powered radio devices with a self-healing mesh network, relying on the patented Cygnus protocol.

This system operates across 10 frequency channels from 865-868 MHz, and the control panel uses mains power.

Eliminating expensive and lengthy cabling processes, the wireless fire alarm system, SmartNet-100, significantly cuts down on both engineering time and project costs.

The straightforward configuration is boosted by the absence of gateway expanders or loop-powered translating devices, expediting installation.

A diverse range for varied needs

Cygnus ensures the SmartNet system is versatile, compatible with various building types.

The product range encompasses Radio Bases with or without Sounders, Visual Indicator Detectors, and a variety of detector heads.

Additionally, SmartNet-100 proudly carries the ‘Made in Britain’ mark and is both EN 54 certified and BS 5839 compliant.

IFSJ Comment

The SmartNet-100 is a clear indication of Cygnus’s commitment to address the diverse needs of the market.

By offering a wireless system, projects can now benefit from reduced installation time, cost savings, and reliability.

For small to medium projects, where budgets and timeframes are often tight, this product could revolutionise the way fire detection systems are implemented.

The Last Word with Reece Paprotny

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Amthal’s newly appointed Commercial Director, Reece Paprotny, talks about his new role and the company’s recent rebrand

Can you tell us about your journey from apprentice to Commercial Director?

My journey has been an incredible experience for which I am truly grateful.

It has shaped my professional growth and provided valuable insights into a fast-evolving industry.

I joined as a Finance apprentice in 2015 and I’m not sure I truly anticipated the career opportunity.

I was eager to learn, and one of the key aspects of working with Amthal is the chance to gain hands-on experience in the sector, embracing the technical intricacies of what was required to succeed in fire safety.

Soon after I joined, we all witnessed the devastating impact of Grenfell and the subsequent influx of new legislation. 

As a trusted partner to many customers across the UK, we had a duty of care to understand what was required for compliance and tailor solutions to meet specific needs, quickly and efficiently.

As all of Amthal does, the commercial team came together with the Fire team to deliver the new standards and ensure our customers comply with the Fire Safety Act and the Building Safety Act.

And this continues as more legislation comes through.

How do you plan to lead your team in addressing the challenges of fire safety?

Our Amthal fire safety team is our most important asset in offering guidance, advice and having the adaptability to change in a dynamic environment.

I am not here to lead but to share their journey and help expand our skillsets to meet our customers’ needs. 

We are actively recruiting Fire Safety Engineers to help comply with weekly, monthly and annual testing schedules for life safety equipment and fire doors.

In line with Amthal’s new rebrand, how important is the fire safety side for the business?

In a word, critical!  Whilst Amthal started as a residential security company, in 2008 we achieved our BAFE accreditation because fire was becoming an increasing part of our business.

Fast forward to now and it’s about a 60:40 split between fire and security.

In our strategic plan, we reflect on the impact of recent years and how life safety issues have been brought to the fore of people’s minds.

What advice would you give to apprentices starting, in the context of a career in fire safety?

If you look at Amthal – the founding members John Allam and Paul Rosenthal together with CEO Jamie Allam, all started their careers as an apprentice. 

As did I and a quarter of the current Amthal team.

The fire safety sector is ready to lean on new talent and the next generations as it opens up systems to the smart potential of cloud technology and remote, real-time monitoring where any incidents can be responded to quickly, and appropriately.

I recently spoke at our company day, referencing the three virtues of being ‘an ideal team player.’ 

To be humble, hungry and smart.

The fire safety sector epitomises these objectives where the skill sets can be learned with a hungry ambition to do more. 

The smartness comes from consistent training and effectively translating the expectations of our customers into everyday actions. 

And the humble is appreciating and supporting the team around you, all willing to achieve customer excellence.

Put this together in the context of fire safety, and you have the career opportunity to make a real difference in saving lives and protecting property.

This article was originally published in the September 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here

Comelit-PAC collaborates on fire safety enhancements at Deva City

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Deva City Office Park boosts fire safety measures with modern technology

Comelit-PAC and GB Integrated Systems partner for safer solutions

The Hop House in Deva City Office Park has undergone significant upgrades with the help of Comelit-PAC and their partners GB Integrated Systems.

This initiative is aimed at strengthening fire safety for all those frequenting this unique work space.

Historical site meets modern safety

Once part of the famed Threlfalls Brewery, an emblematic part of Manchester’s cityscape, Deva City Office Park offers a diverse range of business spaces.

This includes a Grade II listed Brewery building and 17 top-tier self-contained office units.

Recognising the imperative nature of constant security and fire safety, GB Integrated Systems collaborated closely with the site management team.

The goal was to revamp the addressable panels using Comelit-PAC’s state-of-the-art LogiFire solution.

Iain Taylor, Director of Asset Management at Northwood Investors International Limited, voiced the challenges faced: “Our complex requirements for Deva City in terms of security and fire safety were evident.

“Every business on the premises required individual risk assessments.

“These needs had to be juxtaposed with the Grade II classified buildings, ensuring upgrades complemented the historical classification while integrating modern technology.”

Taylor continued: “GB Integrated Systems prioritised understanding our unique demands.

“From the perspective of fire safety, Comelit-PAC’s expertise was invaluable in reducing installation duration and decreasing business interruption for our tenants.”

Ensuring aesthetics while prioritising safety

GB Integrated Systems specifically chose the LogiFire Easy fire safety solution from Comelit-PAC for the office park.

The requirements included a stand-alone 1-loop analogue addressable panel.

Mike Gray, Technical Director at GB Integrated Systems, commented on the selection: “The simplicity of Comelit-PAC’s Logifire solution and its adaptability with the existing cabling made it our choice.

“Its design allows it to coexist with the site’s unique architecture.

“It’s a fire safety solution that offers a blend of form and function, ensuring occupants’ safety.”

The Logifire addressable system stands out for its easy installation process and compliance with both BS and EN standards.

Its array of detectors comes in award-winning designs, ensuring the systems are in harmony with their environment.

Emphasising the evolving landscape of fire safety, Mandy Bowden, Comelit-PAC Fire Manager, said: “The surge in awareness about fire safety emphasises risk assessments, building enhancements, and regular maintenance.

“Our collaboration with GB Integrated Systems at Deva City Office Park showcases the importance of early evaluations in work programmes.

“We recognised that any upgrade must be aesthetically pleasing. The LogiFire solution was pinpointed as an efficient installation, fostering complete fire safety assurance.”

IFSJ Comment

Deva City Office Park’s decision to integrate Comelit-PAC’s cutting-edge technology, with the assistance of GB Integrated Systems, showcases the evolving dynamics of fire safety.

Historical landmarks like the Grade II listed Brewery building demand a careful blend of preservation and modernisation.

The success of this project underscores the value of early risk assessments and collaboration between experts to ensure optimal outcomes for all stakeholders.

Bull Products to showcase safety solutions at SHW Live South

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Bull Products is set to present its temporary fire protection solutions at the Safety, Health & Wellbeing (SHW) Live event from 27th – 28th September 2023, held at Farnborough International, stand 214.

Further information about the event and Bull Products’ involvement can be found at www.bullproducts.co.uk.

Highlighting top safety solutions for the construction industry

Among the showcased products will be Bull Products’ advanced SiteNet solution, a 100% wireless EN 54 certified system.

This system boasts features like a control panel, various fire call points, and self-healing wireless mesh protocol technology.

This ensures SiteNet’s suitability for timed and zone-controlled evacuations in temporary projects.

Additionally, visitors can view the SiteProtect range.

This wireless fire detection and alarm system uses patented Cygnus technology and can connect up to 480 devices across 15 zones.

Enhanced safety with First Responder Stations

Bull Products has designed First Responder Stations tailored to construction site safety needs.

These stations come in five standard categories, including Fire Safety and First Aid, and integrate with various Bull Products alarms.

While available in standard configurations, they offer complete customisability to meet specific customer requirements.

Matthew Trigwell, Sales Director at Bull Products, stated: “We are looking forward to returning to SHW for its South edition.

“The team is eager to engage with industry experts and construction managers to demonstrate how our innovations can foster a safer working environment.”

Bull Products will introduce attendees to its all-encompassing Fire 360° service. Trigwell added: “Our team, backed by extensive expertise, offers this service to navigate the complexities of fire safety, ensuring seamless assistance from the initial query to the final installation.”

IFSJ Comment

Bull Products’ participation in SHW Live South underscores the evolving dynamics of fire and safety solutions tailored for the construction sector.

Their innovative approaches, coupled with wireless technology and customisability, reflect the industry’s move towards adaptable and robust safety measures.

Engaging directly with professionals at such events fosters a collaborative space for advancements, ensuring enhanced site safety across varied projects.

Hochiki Europe unveils new state-of-the-art facility in Kent

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Hochiki Europe’s growth in Gillingham

On Thursday 14th September, Hochiki Europe paused operations at its new warehouse facility in Gillingham to welcome a special delegation.

The MP for Gillingham and Rainham, Rehman Chishti, and the Mayoress of Medway, Cllr Nina Gurung, were present to cut the ribbon and inaugurate the new extension of the Hochiki operation.

A commitment to innovation and excellence

Located in the heart of Kent, the facility, named Apex House, aims to bolster production at Hochiki’s other site in the region.

Spanning 24,000 square feet and furnished with advanced technology, the facility is set to enhance Hochiki’s European base for warehousing, distribution, sales, and administration.

Key figures, including Hochiki’s Chairman Akio Yamagata, were in attendance, alongside industry leaders and journalists.

The consensus was that this investment is a commendable move for both the region and the UK.

Expanding Hochiki Europe’s capabilities

Now celebrating 30 years of European operations, the inauguration of this facility signifies Hochiki’s ongoing dedication to the fire industry.

It comes equipped with modern storage and shipping units, escalating its capacity from 480 to 2,450 pallets.

The facility’s design also includes spaces aimed at nurturing innovation and fostering industry partnerships.

On the occasion, Mr Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director, Hochiki Europe, shared: “The new facility will play a pivotal role in advancing life safety technologies not only here in the UK but across all of Hochiki Europe’s regions, contributing to the safeguarding of individuals and assets globally.”

Having provided pioneering fire detection and life safety systems for over 30 years, this new facility is set to further Hochiki Europe’s mission of enhancing global safety standards.

IFSJ Comment

The launch of Hochiki Europe’s state-of-the-art facility in Gillingham marks a pivotal moment in the life safety industry.

With a longstanding reputation for innovation, Hochiki Europe’s commitment to expanding its capabilities in the UK speaks volumes about the significance of the European market in the global safety landscape.

The introduction of Apex House not only underlines their dedication to producing top-tier life safety solutions but also their investment in fostering innovation through collaboration.

This step forward is sure to catalyse advancements in the sector, making environments safer and more secure for all.

London Fire Brigade reviews response to false alarms to boost community safety

by Featured NewsFire Detection

London Fire Brigade is launching a consultation aimed at reducing its response to false alarms

In a recent announcement, London Fire Brigade (LFB) has commenced a consultation focused on its response to false alarms.

Automatic fire alarms are devices designed to detect potential fires and notify occupants or connected alarm companies to contact emergency services.

The consultation suggests that during the day, the Brigade might not attend automatic fire alarms in non-residential structures, such as offices or industrial areas, unless there is also a call from an individual confirming the presence of a fire.

Tackling genuine emergencies

London Fire Brigade emphasises their commitment to always respond to 999 calls reporting fires anywhere in London.

Moreover, they will maintain their response to alarms from residential settings, like homes.

Interestingly, less than one percent of automatic fire alarms indicate real fires.

This means that a staggering 99% of them are false alarms, which unduly strain the Brigade’s resources.

Last year, the Brigade responded to approximately 60 false alarms each day from non-residential properties, consuming nearly 23,500 hours of firefighters’ time.

False alarms: Addressing the real impact

With a reduction in attending false alarms, firefighters can allocate more time to fire prevention and community safety enhancement.

Activities they can engage in include fire safety assessments in homes and commercial establishments, and valuable operational training.

Interestingly, all but four fire and rescue services in the UK already implement similar practices.

Considering exemptions in the proposal

However, the Brigade’s proposal mentions they would continue attending automatic alarms in areas where people might be asleep or where hazardous substances are stored.

Significant public buildings like heritage sites would also still receive a response.

Deputy Commissioner Dominic Ellis voiced his views: “We are here to keep London’s communities safe, and we want to do this as effectively as possible.”

“We spend thousands of hours each year addressing false alarms in non-residential buildings.

“Minimising our attendance at these instances will allow us to concentrate on our main goal: community safety. Remember, we will always be there if you call us during an emergency.”

He also expressed the Brigade’s desire to gather feedback from businesses and stakeholders before making a final decision.

Conclusion of the consultation

Feedback from this consultation will shape the Brigade’s strategy regarding automatic fire alarms.

For more details on how to participate in this consultation, interested parties can visit the Brigade’s website.

The deadline for input is set for 25 October 2023.

The main proposal highlights include:

  • LFB might not attend non-residential alarms from 7am to 6pm.
  • Buildings with sleeping risks, such as houses, flats, hospitals, and student accommodations, will still receive emergency responses.
  • High-risk sites with dangerous substances and significant public buildings will also continue getting an emergency response.

Participants in the consultation will be asked a series of questions, including their concerns, suggestions for other exemptions, and ways LFB can assist organisations to prepare for the change.

IFSJ Comment

The move by the London Fire Brigade to reconsider its attendance at false alarms underscores a broader trend in the firefighting community to optimise resources and enhance community safety.

By focusing on genuine emergencies and allocating time to preventive measures, there’s potential for a more efficient and proactive approach to fire safety.

It’s crucial for stakeholders to engage in this consultation to ensure a comprehensive and balanced perspective is adopted.

MSA Safety’s newest gas detector earns the Frost & Sullivan New Product Innovation Award

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsFeatured NewsFire DetectionProducts

The ALTAIR io 4Gas detector gains recognition

MSA Safety has revealed that its latest portable gas detector, the ALTAIR io 4, has been awarded the 2023 Frost & Sullivan New Product Innovation Award in the global gas detection sector.

This announcement came as a testament to the product’s advanced features and MSA’s commitment to innovation.

Elevating the gas detection industry

The ALTAIR io 4 is the inaugural product in the MSA Connected Work Platform and was built to be a holistic and user-friendly safety solution.

It boasts a pioneering direct-to-cloud structure, enabling it to smoothly integrate with MSA Grid cloud-based software and the ALTAIR io Dock.

This interconnectivity can assist safety managers in amplifying compliance, efficiently handling their device arsenal, and boosting awareness of worker safety.

When used with MSA’s MSA+ subscription service, this device provides a robust system that augments worker safety, simplifying safety program supervision by offering immediate insight, ultimately optimising safety and efficiency for workers and worksites alike.

Recognition of distinction

Frost & Sullivan’s award acknowledges businesses introducing innovative products or solutions that aptly cater to essential consumer requirements.

This entails the company’s ability to envisage future industry needs and address emerging challenges and prospects.

The entirety of the Connected Work Platform ecosystem, which includes the ALTAIR io 4, the MSA Grid software platform, MSA+, and MSA id digital device assignment capabilities, is what set it apart during the evaluation.

A company’s perspective on innovation

Gustavo Lopez, MSA Safety’s Vice President of Product Strategy and Pricing, stated: “The Connected Work Platform is designed to make safety more straightforward and empower safety managers to devise adaptable and forward-thinking safety schemes.

“By utilising our top-tier sensor technology and cloud-based solutions, we’re facilitating safety managers to streamline their safety programmes via digital reporting and allowing them remote access to data.

“It’s a privilege to be acknowledged by Frost & Sullivan for this award, underscoring our persistent efforts to craft pioneering safety measures that safeguard people in their daily work environments.”

The criteria for success

To win a Frost & Sullivan award, products must meet the demands of industry customers, demonstrate reliability and superior quality, and display innovation in design.

Additionally, customer impact criteria such as cost-effectiveness, user experience during purchase and ownership, customer service, and brand value are factored in.

Further details on the Connected Work Platform and ALTAIR io 4 can be found here.

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of MSA Safety’s ALTAIR io 4 by a reputable institution like Frost & Sullivan signifies a significant shift in the realm of gas detection.

The device’s innovative design, coupled with its cloud capabilities, brings a fresh approach to safety management.

Moreover, the Connected Work Platform shows MSA’s dedication to optimising worker safety, which will likely set new standards in the industry.

Middle East energy giants turn to Blackline Safety for worker protection

by Featured NewsFire DetectionMiddle East - ProjectsProjects

Leading energy companies from Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have collaborated with Blackline Safety, a pioneering name in connected safety technology, for worker protection.

New contracts exceed $1.3 million

In a recent announcement from Calgary, Canada, Blackline Safety Corp. revealed that they have clinched deals worth more than $1.3 million over the past six months with three top energy brands from the Middle East.

The significant purchase includes 1,200 G7c and 200 G7x portable gas detectors, 50 G7 EXO area gas monitors, and 40 G7 Bridges.

These tools are geared towards ensuring the safety of their workforce at diverse locations across the Middle East.

Several equipment deliveries have been fulfilled, and the remaining hardware and service revenue will be accrued within the forthcoming year.

Blackline Safety: Setting the benchmark in connected safety

The company’s holistic solution for lone worker and gas detection not only augments frontline worker safety but also refines operations by offering insights from real-time data.

This puts Blackline Safety at a vantage point to grasp the burgeoning global connected worker industry, which projects a compound annual growth rate of 20 percent.

Peter Attalla, Vice President, International Sales remarked: “The contracts we’ve secured represent fresh connected gas detection agreements.

“Our clients are increasingly seeking connected safety in diverse and remote environments.

“It’s evident that only Blackline Safety can meet this demand, offering real-time insights into on-field worker experiences.”

He further elaborated on the company’s growing rapport with their clientele, saying: “Consistent positive feedback and the unparalleled reliability and real-time capability of our devices make us the preferred choice.

“We initiated by introducing our lone worker solution, and now our clients are investing in our comprehensive gas detection product suite.”

This is the second instance in 2023 where the company has announced notable contracts in the Middle East.

Earlier in January, Blackline was designated a favoured supplier for a prominent energy enterprise in a deal that surpassed $1 million.

Their rental business is also witnessing an uptick, especially for the G7c and G7 EXO devices in Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Endorsing the company’s growing influence, Attalla stated: “The escalating growth indicates our global appeal.

“Firms globally are committed to safeguarding their employees at work.

“Blackline’s solutions resonate with this ethos, instilling confidence in workers to execute their roles safely.”

IFSJ Comment

The alignment of leading Middle Eastern energy companies with Blackline Safety underscores a pivotal trend in global safety standards.

As industries rapidly evolve, the emphasis on connected safety technology grows equally crucial.

Blackline Safety’s inroads into the Middle East, marked by their significant contracts, exemplify this shift.

It’s heartening to see companies prioritise their frontline workers, ensuring not only efficiency but also safety, through technology.

This collaboration serves as a testament to the future of workplace safety, where real-time data and advanced devices become fundamental.