Wireless installation advantage: Ajax Systems highlights new business models for fire installers

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

Wireless fire detection is reshaping installation strategies and opening new service models, writes Paul Pope, Global Head of Fire & Life Safety Business at Ajax Systems

Technology within the fire safety sector is evolving rapidly and entering a decisive decade.

Once considered a niche technology, the wireless fire detection and alarm market reached $688 million in 2024 and is predicted to exceed $844 million by 2033.

The real turning point is that certified EN54-25 wireless systems can now deliver system integrity and reliability comparable to wired installations, removing the last barrier to adoption.

For installers, it’s a chance to redefine their business model and evaluate the suitability of projects between the different technologies now available.

Professionally installed wireless systems can lead to faster project delivery, less disruption, and, with the latest technologies, access to new revenue streams like real-time remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and instant alerts.

In a world where efficiency and compliance rule, wireless systems can provide the installers with the tools and options to grow their business.

The challenge for fire installers today  

For decades, wired fire detection and alarm systems have been the gold standard, and they still secure their place in the overall solution to the design and fire strategy for many buildings.

However, due to the complexity and disruption associated with cable installation, it can be time-consuming and invasive to building operations.

In many cases, a long installation schedule due to unforeseen circumstances can increase the final project cost.

That’s why there is an increase in fire safety specialists reassessing the fire strategy and opting for wireless systems.

The industry is also facing a shortage of skilled engineers, which is a major workforce concern.

The NFPA research revealed  that 50% of the skilled  workforce shortages will be the main concern for  2025, and this  shortfall is expected to continue growing.

This challenge highlights the need to increase the future workforce by attracting the next generation of fire professionals who may be less interested in labour-intensive work.

Advanced wireless technology can help to reduce this barrier, making the noble profession of the fire industry more attractive to technology-oriented professionals.

Additionally, the market is struggling with competitive pressure.

Clients want faster, flexible, and less intrusive installation, and wired solutions make it difficult to meet those expectations.

Not upgrading with wireless means turning away almost half of potential clients, especially in commercial projects where wireless is becoming a viable alternative choice.

What’s at stake if installers do not adapt 

Considering the challenges above, adapting to new market demands is an ongoing process, for all businesses.

The wireless fire detection and alarm market is growing at nearly 8% annually, and installers who do not adapt risk losing access to this growth and missing out on business opportunities.

Around 46% of facility managers already choose wireless systems as their first option for upgrades or retrofits.

There is a risk of losing a competitive advantage.

More than 64% of fire installers now prefer wireless systems over wired ones for their flexibility and scalability.

Falling behind means watching the revenue flow to better-prepared companies.

The numbers speak for themselves — due to enhancements in technology, the EN54-25 wireless sector is getting stronger.

The holistic approach in maintaining fire safety has always been the main driver for fire professionals, and the choice available in both wired and wireless systems  today is impressive.

The decision is with the professionals to evaluate which technology is suitable for each project and, where appropriate, seize the growth and benefits that wireless unlocks.

Turning wireless into a competitive advantage

Demand for wireless fire detection and alarm systems is  rising  in the commercial sector, where the stakeholders’ value is reduced  by 35% compared with wired systems.

At the same time, installation companies benefit from faster installations, more capacity, and time for new revenue streams, including services like integrated smart systems, proactive maintenance contracts, or managing larger projects.

The question most frequently asked is related to the performance of the batteries.

The latest technologies  can deliver  battery capacities between 5 and 7 years, supported by continuous condition monitoring and low-battery alerts, sent to the fire control panel and/or remote management systems.

Providing real-time monitoring notifications and secure on-site and remote on-demand system health checks provides the responsible person(s) and service organisations with the information to know exactly when replacements are needed.

In commercial settings, planned maintenance visits make replacements easy.

This shifts battery management from a problem to a predictable, manageable task.

Wireless fire detection and alarm systems can open up new opportunities in healthcare, logistics, education, museums, heritage sites, construction sites, vacant properties, energy infrastructure, and retail and many more.

Wireless EN54 fire detection for commercial and municipal sites 

Some facilities are unsuitable for wired systems , either because wiring them to the local or national codes of practice  is complicated or impossible to do so.

For example, where there is a risk of asbestos or architecturally sensitive building fabric disturbance, or where the operation of the facility would be seriously disrupted.

 In some cases, hybrid systems are used, where some of the fire alarm system is  connected wirelessly, while other devices are wired.

 EN54-25 certified wireless systems with the additional EN54-13 compatibility certification, precisely match the operating realities of commercial and municipal estates, offering continuous supervision and strict compliance.

Halma trading update reports continued growth across life safety technology businesses

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionSafety

Halma trading update points to full-year growth

Halma has reported continued progress ahead of the end of its financial year, with the group expecting mid-teens organic constant currency revenue growth for the year ending 31 March 2026.

In a trading update released on 12 March, the global group of life-saving technology companies confirmed that second-half trading to date remains consistent with the upgraded guidance set out in its half year results published in November 2025.

The group expects to deliver a 23rd consecutive year of record adjusted profit.

Growth has been broad-based across Halma’s portfolio of technology companies, which operate across sectors including safety, environmental monitoring and healthcare.

Order intake remains ahead of revenue in the year to date and also ahead of the comparable period last year.

Premium growth in photonics within the Environmental & Analysis Sector continues to support revenue performance.

Halma expects full-year cash conversion to remain in line with its KPI of 90%.

The appreciation of Sterling is expected to create a negative currency translation effect on the group’s results.

Halma continues acquisition investment across group sectors

Halma has completed five acquisitions during the financial year to date, including three since the half year ended on 30 September 2025.

These acquisitions span the group’s three operating sectors.

Total investment in acquisitions has reached a record £451m on a maximum total consideration basis.

The company reports that its acquisition pipeline remains active across all three sectors.

Halma will publish its full year results for the year ending 31 March 2026 on 11 June 2026.

Fire and smoke detection results raise questions for smart cities

by AI & Deep LearningFeatured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Detection system combines two AI models

Researchers at Jouf University in Saudi Arabia have developed an artificial intelligence framework for early smoke and fire detection in smart city environments.

A study by Amr Abozeid and Rayan Alanazi describes a hybrid system that combines a Vision Transformer with the YOLOv8 object detection architecture.

The framework is designed to identify early-stage smoke and fire patterns in complex visual scenes and support faster response through smart city monitoring systems.

The study says conventional heat and smoke detectors often raise alerts only after smoke reaches the device.

It adds that existing video-based systems can also produce false alarms when visual conditions include dust, clouds or changes in lighting.

The Vision Transformer analyses global visual patterns in an image so the system can detect subtle smoke characteristics and spatial relationships across a scene.

The YOLOv8 module then performs real-time object detection to localise smoke and fire regions at speed.

Detection results and next steps

According to the study in Scientific Reports, the researchers trained and tested the model on more than 7,000 images from urban and rural datasets.

These images included smoke and fire scenes captured under different lighting conditions and in different environments.

The system achieved 99.2% accuracy, with precision of 98.5% and recall of 97.8%.

Its F1 score reached 98.1% and inference latency was about 45 milliseconds, which the study says enabled real-time detection at about 22 frames per second.

The researchers reported an accuracy increase of about 4.3% compared with conventional convolutional neural network approaches and other single-model detection systems.

The study also says the framework performed better than several existing detection models across precision, recall and localisation accuracy.

It states that the hybrid architecture can distinguish real smoke or fire from visually similar features such as printed flames or static images by analysing contextual and spatial characteristics rather than relying only on colour.

The authors say further validation in real-world settings is still needed, with future work set to examine thermal imaging and environmental sensor inputs for low-visibility conditions.

Madrid-based Agustin Polo joins Hyfire in global product marketing post

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeople

Hyfire appoints new global product marketing lead

Hyfire has appointed Agustin Polo as Global Product Marketing Manager, based in Madrid, to support the international promotion of its wireless fire safety systems and contribute to its global product marketing strategy.

Hyfire said Polo will work with teams across the company and its parent organisation, Orama, on product launches, digital initiatives and wider transformation programmes.

Polo was born in Argentina and raised in Italy.

He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Milan before studying for a Master’s degree in Vienna, Austria.

He holds dual citizenship and is fluent in Italian, Spanish and German.

Following his studies, he worked with organisations in Germany, France, the United Kingdom and the United States, gaining experience across several international markets.

Polo said: “What really drew me to Hyfire was their technological innovation.

“Especially the idea of using wireless systems as a launch pad toward digital transformation in fire safety.

“It is something that, in my opinion, this sector really needs right now to gain that digital momentum.”

Polo sets out wireless growth focus

Hyfire said Agustin Polo, Global Product Marketing Manager, will coordinate with teams across the organisation to support the marketing of the company’s wireless fire safety technologies as it seeks to strengthen its position in wireless fire detection systems and expand internationally.

The role includes involvement in digital product development, product launches and company-wide transformation initiatives through Hyfire’s position within the Orama group.

Polo said the opportunity to contribute to global projects through that structure was part of the role’s appeal.

Polo said: “We must be the centre of wireless excellence in all of Europe, and eventually the world.

“We can achieve this by elevating our product marketing and showcasing how Hyfire’s products can be key solutions in various sectors and cases.”

He also said geographic expansion would be important as the company introduces its technologies into additional international markets.

Polo said: “I love keeping up to date with the latest in technological innovation, from artificial intelligence to various digitalisation.

“I believe that it’s important to keep an open mind as embracing change is the only way of achieving greatness.”

Outside work, Polo said: “I’m passionate about sports, specifically football.

“I played for a long time, I’d say I’m almost a former football player.

“But I also love music, I play the guitar and am quite fond of American Country music.”

The appointment places Polo in a role focused on international product marketing as Hyfire continues to promote its wireless fire safety systems across more markets.

Gold Innovation award recognises Chester Rows fire detection project

by Featured NewsFire DetectionHeritageProjects

Innovation award recognises Chester Rows fire detection project

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Cheshire West and Chester Council have won Gold in the Innovation in Public Sector Award at the IESE Public Sector Transformation Awards in Westminster for a fire protection system installed on Chester’s historic Rows.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service reported that the project installed an aspirating smoke detection system across the outdoor heritage site, marking the first use of this type of early warning technology at an outdoor historic site in the UK.

The work involved collaboration between the council, heritage specialists and the Protection Department at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

In January, the system detected smoke from a fire at a commercial premises on Music Hall Passage more than 100 metres away.

The blaze had also been reported through a 999 call.

The early alert demonstrated how the system could provide warning if a fire occurred at night, when the Rows are more exposed.

Project partners and national recognition

The installation was carried out with Charles Thomas Heritage Fire Protection Specialists, Donald Insall Associates, Recclesia and specialist consultants, with part funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Steve McCormick, Head of Prevention and Protection at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are incredibly proud to see this innovative project recognised on a national stage.

“The system installed on the Rows brings together cutting edge technology and expert heritage protection, providing a level of early warning fire detection never before achieved on a historic site like this.

“This award is a testament to the dedication of all partners involved, including our Technical Fire Safety Heritage Officer, James Scott, whose work has been fundamental to the project’s success.”

Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “I’m delighted that the introduction of our Aspirating Smoke Detection system is not only helping to protect the Chester Rows, but the technology and innovation could play a part in protecting many more heritage sites across the country.

“The new system plays a vital role in our fire protection action plan.

“Winning this gold award will help to showcase the system to far more sites. Congratulations to the many people involved in developing, installing and running the new system.”

The system is now being considered by councils and conservation bodies as a possible approach for heritage fire protection at other sites.

AddSecure expands dual-path fire alarm signalling range in the UK

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

AddSecure launches DP4 signalling product

AddSecure has launched the NGP Advanced Extra DP4, a dual-path fire alarm signalling device designed to meet the latest BS 5839-1:2025 requirements.

The company announced the product on 5 March 2026 and said it uses LAN and 4G with dual SIM capability to provide DP4-grade signalling for fire alarm systems.

Under BS 5839-1:2025, alarm transmission equipment for Category L systems must meet specific performance criteria for summoning the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS).

Single-path failures must reach the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) within 90 seconds.

Any catastrophic failure – defined as the loss of both signalling paths – must be indicated at both the ARC and the control and indicating equipment within three minutes.

AddSecure said the Advanced Extra DP4 meets those requirements through 90-second single-path failure reporting, step-up reporting on the secondary path when the primary path fails and three-minute catastrophic failure indication.

Nicholas Whiting, VP Alarm Signalling, AddSecure UK, said: “The launch of NGP Advanced Extra DP4 reflects AddSecure’s commitment to supporting the industry through critical changes such as the PSTN switch-off and the move to IP networks.

“By meeting the latest BS 5839-1:2025 requirements and offering dual-path resilience, this solution ensures life safety systems remain reliable and compliant.

“Installers can trust that Advanced Extra DP4 combines robust performance with third-party certification through the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), our BSI Kitemark and ISO 27001 certification for advanced cyber security standards,”

AddSecure expands its DP4 portfolio

The new device joins two existing DP4 products in AddSecure’s range.

Those products are Ultimate with Access Line, which includes a managed broadband service and router intended to remain operational during power outages, and Ultimate without Access Line, which uses customer-managed broadband.

The company said its dual-path products are certified for both fire and security applications, allowing installers to use one device across both areas.

AddSecure also said the range includes zero upfront costs, with billing on activation or after 60 days.

It added that its dual-path products have third-party certification through LPCB and a BSI Kitemark for IoT cyber security.

The company also said its cyber security measures exceed the requirements of the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act, and noted that it holds ISO 27001 certification.

AddSecure entered the UK alarm signalling market in June 2024 following the closure of BT Redcare, and said its Next Generation Portfolio builds on its telecoms, security and cloud communications background.

Advanced to exhibit at The Fire Safety Event 2026 in Birmingham

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Detection

Advanced at The Fire Safety Event 2026

Advanced will exhibit its fire and life safety systems at The Fire Safety Event 2026, taking place from 28 to 30 April at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham.

The company said visitors will find the Advanced team at Hall 4 Stand D85, where it will demonstrate connected systems designed for building fire detection, smoke control and evacuation management.

The Fire Safety Event brings together manufacturers, installers, consultants and building operators to view new technologies and discuss developments affecting fire protection and compliance.

Advanced systems on display at the event

Advanced said the stand will feature demonstrations of SmokeGo and EvacGo.

SmokeGo is a smoke control system designed to manage smoke control fans and dampers through automatic or manual control.

The system is approved to EN54 Parts 2 and 4.

Advanced states that SmokeGo has been developed to support installation and system management through simplified configuration and clear system operation.

EvacGo is an evacuation alert system developed to support compliance with BS 8629 in residential buildings.

Built using MxPro 5 technology, the system enables fire and rescue services to control evacuation alert zones during an incident.

AdvancedLive monitoring platform demonstrations

Advanced said the team will also deliver live demonstrations of AdvancedLive during the exhibition.

AdvancedLive is a platform designed to monitor and manage Advanced fire systems through a computer, tablet or mobile device.

The platform provides users with system status information and alerts while supporting maintenance management.

Visitors to the stand will also be able to preview further enhancements planned for the AdvancedLive platform.

VdS joins Euralarm as associate member in Extinguishing, Fire, Security and Services

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafetyTraining

Euralarm adds VdS as associate member

Euralarm has welcomed VdS as a new associate member in Zug, Switzerland, in March 2026.

VdS will become a member of its Extinguishing, Fire, Security and Services Sections.

VdS services and areas of work

VdS described its work as covering fire protection, security, cyber security and natural hazard prevention.

Its services include risk assessments, testing and certification, inspection services, information systems for natural hazards and a training programme.

The institute also publishes guidelines that it said set international safety and security standards.

How Euralarm described member benefits and section roles

Euralarm said companies joining the association gain insight into other European markets and opportunities, alongside access to EU policy expertise and connections with technical and political experts and potential business partners.

It added that membership enables organisations to gain expertise on standardisation and support and direct standardisation and legislative processes.

The association outlined its four sections as Extinguishing, Fire, Services and Security, with VdS joining all sections.

MSA Safety sets out seven reasons to pair gas and flame detection

by Featured NewsFire Detection

MSA Safety on gas and flame detection systems

A blog post from MSA Safety outlines how flame detection can be integrated with gas detection in industrial environments where flammable or toxic gases may be present.

The article describes gas detection systems as tools designed to identify combustible, toxic or asphyxiating gases in air and provide early warnings before conditions become dangerous.

It states that gas detection does not address what happens if a leak ignites and presents flame detection as a complementary layer that identifies the presence of fire, including in cases where gas concentration has not reached detectable levels.

Seven reasons from MSA Safety to add flame detection

MSA Safety sets out seven reasons for including flame detection within a gas detection system.

First, combining gas and flame detection is presented as a way to mitigate hazards by addressing both leaks and ignition events.

Second, flame detection is described as enabling a faster response to fire emergencies where a gas leak ignites within seconds.

Third, it is positioned as helping to eliminate blind spots where a leak occurs outside monitored zones or ignites directly.

Fourth, the blog highlights high-risk industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals and manufacturing where flammable gases may be present.

Fifth, it notes that safety regulations can require both gas and flame detection systems to meet legal and industry standards.

Sixth, early flame detection is said to support activation of suppression systems, limit fire spread and reduce equipment damage and downtime.

Seventh, integrating both systems is described as contributing to operational safety and continuity by reducing the likelihood of accidents and enabling quicker recovery following an incident.

The post also addresses perceived barriers such as cost, complexity or maintenance and states that reliance on gas detection alone may overlook how quickly a leak can escalate into a fire.