Channel Fire becomes part of Alpine Group as special risk capability grows

by Featured NewsFire DetectionMergers & AcquisitionsPassive

Alpine group adds channel fire to special risk capability

Alpine Group has announced that Channel Fire has joined the group, with the companies presenting the move as supporting accredited fire protection delivery in complex environments.

The announcement described Channel Fire as a specialist fire protection business that provides design, installation and maintenance services where standard approaches are not always suitable.

Channel Fire was founded in 2015, according to the announcement.

What the acquisition means for both businesses

The announcement stated that the acquisition supports Alpine Group’s strategy to build out its Special Risk capability for customers operating in mission-critical and regulated environments.

Claire Owens, Chief Executive Officer of Alpine Group, said: “Channel Fire is a specialist business with a strong reputation for accredited fire protection solutions in complex environments.

“Their technical expertise, values and approach align closely with ours and we are pleased to welcome Brett, Luke and the wider Channel Fire team into the group.”

Brett Comber, Director at Channel Fire, commented: “Joining the Alpine Group is an exciting next step for Channel Fire.

“This partnership allows us to continue supporting our customers as we always have, while benefiting from the scale and support of a wider group.”

Luke Huckerby, Director at Channel Fire, added: “Being part of the Alpine Group strengthens our ability to deliver complex, specialist projects while maintaining the high standards and personal service Channel Fire is known for – for both our team and our customers.”

Service continuity for Channel Fire customers

The announcement stated that existing Channel Fire customers should see no disruption to current services or relationships.

It added that customers will continue to work with the same team, supported by additional capability and resources from the wider Alpine Group.

The companies said further updates will be shared as Channel Fire develops as part of Alpine Group.

IRIS 2002 warehouse adopts Hochiki Latitude and ESP fire detection system

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Fire detection installed across IRIS 2002’s warehouse operation

IRIS 2002 SRL has enhanced fire safety across its warehousing operation using Hochiki Latitude fire control panels networked with Hochiki ESP intelligent fire detection and alarm devices.

Hochiki said the work covered a three floor 6,600 sqm garment warehouse within a wider 9,000 sqm facility serving the Italian luxury fashion industry.

The installation was delivered by Hochiki Italia distributor DSA Technology SRL working with authorised installation specialists EM Sistemi Di Sicurezza.

The design included a dedicated hanging garment section with an overhead trolley system and a loading platform.

System design for open plan layout and signalling

The open plan layout created a signalling constraint where the absence of structural columns limited traditional Visual Alarm Device placement in parts of the warehouse.

The team specified Hochiki YBO-BSB2 base sounder beacons mounted beneath ESP intelligent sensors to provide combined audible and visual warnings.

The base sounder beacons provide 51 EN54 approved audio tones and a high intensity flash to support signalling in environments with high background noise.

The ESP addressable sensor range was selected for use across large mixed warehouse zones and for features intended to reduce unwanted alarms, including automatic drift compensation and variable sensitivity.

Latitude fire control panels were installed across all three warehouses, with the system monitored from a single control station.

Hochiki described a remote monitoring option intended to give facilities and health and safety teams 24/7 access to system status and real time visibility of panel conditions.

Installation feedback from the delivery team

EM Sistemi Di Sicurezza said: “The flexibility of Hochiki’s system made the design and installation process easy.”

DSA Technology SRL said: “Configuration and programming were extremely simple, reducing commissioning times. The user interface is clear and intuitive, ensuring immediate and safe management of the system for end operators.”

The case study presented the project as an example of an addressable fire detection and alarm system for a high throughput logistics environment.

No cause for alarm? Safety Technology International on managing false alarms in UAE buildings

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionMiddle East - Breaking News

With unwanted fire alarms shaping evacuation behaviour, Safety Technology International looks at how BS 5839-1:2025 reframes false alarm management across UAE residential and public buildings

Across the UAE’s high-density and public-facing buildings, updated guidance in BS 5839-1:2025 places greater weight on false alarm investigation, manual call point design and practical measures that support consistent occupant response.

Alarm fatigue as a behavioural pattern

Alarm fatigue develops through experience.

When people encounter repeated fire alarm activations that do not lead to a confirmed incident, their response changes over time.

Initial compliance gives way to hesitation, informal checks and reliance on reassurance from staff or neighbours.

Eventually, the alarm sound itself loses urgency.

In the UAE, this pattern carries particular relevance.

Residential towers, mixed-use developments, shopping centres and entertainment venues operate at scale and often around the clock.

These environments bring together residents, visitors, contractors and staff with varying levels of familiarity with the building.

In that context, repeated unwanted alarms influence shared expectations about what an activation means.

This dynamic has appeared in real incidents.

In Dubai, residents of a high-rise tower reported that frequent false alarms had shaped their response during a later fire, with some occupants delaying evacuation because they expected another unwanted activation.

In another widely reported incident, an alarm in a major retail destination was activated when an emergency button was broken unintentionally, illustrating how accessible devices in busy environments can be triggered without a fire condition.

These examples matter because they show how behaviour evolves in everyday settings.

Alarm fatigue does not emerge from a single failure, but from repetition.

Why unwanted alarms continue to occur

Unwanted fire alarms arise from a mix of technical, environmental and human factors.

Among these, interaction with manual call points remains a consistent feature in many high-occupancy buildings.

Manual call points are intentionally designed to be visible and easy to operate.

They are positioned along escape routes and near exits so that occupants can raise the alarm quickly when a fire is suspected.

In busy environments, those same characteristics increase exposure to accidental knocks, misuse, confusion with door controls or deliberate operation without cause.

In public areas, call points may sit alongside access control hardware, emergency door releases or wayfinding signage.

In crowded conditions, or where occupants are unfamiliar with the building, this visual overlap can contribute to unwanted operation.

Over time, repeated activations linked to the same locations reinforce the perception that alarms are routine.

This is where alarm fatigue begins to affect evacuation behaviour.

What BS 5839-1:2025 adds in practical terms

The BS 5839-1:2025 guidance provided for this article addresses false alarms through specificity rather than broad instruction.

It differentiates between types of false alarm, links causes to particular premises types and points towards targeted responses.

The Standard identifies that malicious false alarms occur more frequently in premises used by large numbers of the public, including shopping centres, places of entertainment, sports facilities, car parks and educational establishments.

It associates these incidents primarily with the operation of manual call points.

For buildings where this pattern exists, the guidance points towards reviewing call point locations and, where appropriate, introducing additional actions required to operate the device.

At the same time, it states clearly that false alarms raised with good intent cannot be prevented in the same way and that occupants should always feel able to activate a call point if they suspect a fire.

This distinction matters operationally.

It allows building teams to respond to repeated unwanted alarms without changing the fundamental expectation that alarms should be raised quickly when risk is perceived.

Investigation and record quality

BS 5839-1:2025 also places explicit importance on investigation.

It links effective investigation to the quality of false alarm records, stating that records should capture the category of false alarm wherever this can be accurately determined.

For UAE building operators, this supports a practical workflow.

Instead of treating false alarms as isolated events, teams can identify patterns across time, location and cause.

A call point that activates repeatedly during peak footfall hours suggests a different response from one linked to maintenance activity or environmental factors.

This approach supports proportionate decision-making.

Changes to system design, signage or protection can be justified by evidence rather than assumption, which is particularly relevant in complex sites with multiple stakeholders.

Manual call point protection and placement

Within this investigation-led approach, BS 5839-1:2025 sets clearer expectations around physical protection for manual call points.

The extract provided states that all manual call points should be fitted with a transparent protective cover that is moved to gain access to operate the device.

It also states that where existing systems experience frequent unwanted operation, protective covers should be fitted.

The guidance also addresses placement.

Manual call points should avoid locations where they are likely to be exposed to accidental damage from normal building operations, such as the movement of trolleys or equipment.

Where placement in these locations is necessary to meet other recommendations, impact protection is advised.

In practice, this supports a combination of location review and physical protection.

Where relocation is feasible, it can reduce exposure.

Where it is not, covers and guards support continued accessibility with greater resilience to everyday use.

Applying protection in occupied spaces

Protective measures are most effective when they fit naturally into how a building is used.

Transparent call point covers introduce a deliberate action while keeping the device visible and recognisable.

That additional step can reduce casual interference and accidental activation without affecting the ability to raise an alarm quickly.

STI’s Stopper range includes manual call point covers designed for this purpose.

Some models incorporate a local audible alert that sounds when the cover is lifted.

In busy corridors, lobbies or public circulation routes, this draws immediate attention to interaction with life safety equipment and supports staff awareness at the point of activation.

Used alongside investigation findings, these measures align with the BS 5839-1:2025 emphasis on targeted responses rather than blanket restrictions.

Alarm fatigue and the wider life safety environment

Alarm fatigue connects to more than alarm panels and call points.

It is influenced by how consistently life safety systems perform and how visible their integrity is to occupants and staff.

Emergency exits provide one example.

In some buildings, exit doors are used for convenience or unauthorised access, particularly in retail and public venues.

Over time, this affects confidence in escape routes and evacuation planning.

Fire doors present a similar challenge.

Their role in compartmentation relies on them remaining closed when not in use.

In operational settings, doors may be held open to support movement or ventilation, which reduces their effectiveness during a fire.

STI’s Exit Stopper and Fire Door Alarm solutions are designed to bring immediate awareness to these actions through local audible alerts.

Rather than relying on policy alone, they support day-to-day compliance by making safety-critical behaviour visible at the point it occurs.

Fire extinguishers also contribute to occupant confidence.

When extinguishers are missing, relocated or misused, trust in on-site safety provision diminishes.

Alarmed retention approaches support availability while signalling interference when it happens.

Why this matters in the UAE today

In the UAE’s high-density and mixed-use buildings, evacuation performance depends on trust.

People respond quickly when they believe the alarm signal is meaningful and reliable.

That belief is shaped by everyday experience.

BS 5839-1:2025 provides tools that support this outcome through clearer categorisation of false alarms, stronger expectations around investigation and practical guidance on manual call point protection and placement.

When applied with local evidence, these measures support consistent occupant response without changing the fundamental principles of life safety.

By combining investigation, proportionate design choices and targeted protection of vulnerable equipment, building teams can reduce avoidable activations and reinforce confidence in the system.

Over time, that confidence supports the behaviour every fire alarm system relies on: prompt evacuation when the signal sounds.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Leading the conversation on accessibility with Hochiki

by EvacuationFeatured NewsFire Detection

With accessibility shaping expectations in modern buildings, Hochiki examines how fire installers are taking on a wider advisory role across diverse environments

Compliance with fire safety codes sets the foundation for protecting buildings, but it is no longer the only expectation placed on installers.

Fire safety engineers are increasingly expected to deliver solutions that address both regulatory requirements and occupant needs.

Both modern buildings and older properties, whether carefully preserved, adapted for new use or extended with new wings, must now support diverse occupant needs.

As buildings serve more diverse populations, life safety systems must be both responsive and accessible, delivering consistent protection, extending to every occupant, regardless of ability.

This shift requires a broader role for fire professionals, who are now expected to advise clients on accessibility as well as fit systems.

The most forward-thinking installers are engaging with clients early in the design phase, have a working knowledge of the latest technology advances and can provide products that serve a wide range of user needs.

In this article, we review how inclusive standards are being applied in practice and how forward-thinking engineers are helping clients see accessibility not as a bolt-on feature, but as a fundamental design principle.

Inclusive standards in practice

Understanding accessibility in fire safety starts with a review of the regulations themselves.

Each region applies its own framework of codes and standards, and together they define how inclusive life safety should function in practice.

For installers, this means interpreting what standards demand on site and how they affect system design in each unique application.

In the Middle East, local codes often blend UL and EN requirements to address safety in complex, high-density buildings where occupant needs vary widely.

 In the UK, BS 5839‑1 and BS 5266‑1 outline core requirements for fire detection and emergency lighting.

BS 5839‑9 extends this by requiring Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) systems in refuge areas.

Across Europe, EN 54 standards, including EN 54‑23 for Visual Alarm Devices (VADs), help ensure that life safety systems accommodate users with hearing impairments.

Despite the tragedy taking place in the UK, legal and reputational pressures have increased globally since Grenfell Tower fire.

Building owners and facility managers around the world are now expected to demonstrate that their systems support everyone, not just the average occupant.

Installers as strategic advisors: Real world examples

For fire safety professionals, this is not just a challenge, but an opportunity.

The best installers are not just system integrators; they are strategic partners.

They help clients understand why inclusive fire safety is worth investing in, guiding them through real-world needs, how to navigate the complexities of standards and the wide range technologies available on the market.

In the Middle East, Dubai Metro is the backbone of the city’s transport network, moving millions every day.

Since 2021, the Roads and Transport Authority has partnered with Hochiki Europe and local experts Dafoos Fire & Security, fitting SOC-E3 smoke detectors across metro cabins to quietly protect passengers at scale, evidenced over busy periods like Eid Al-Fitr, when the Metro alone carried 2.43 million riders in three days.

Engineered for Dubai’s demanding conditions, heat, dust and humidity, Hochiki’s detectors deliver dependable, low-nuisance detection that keeps services running safely across a fleet operated by Keolis-MHI, with around 50 trains typically in service at peak.

This reliability helps ensure swift, accurate alerts and coordinated responses, minimising disruption while maximising passenger safety on both Red and Green lines.

Crucially, this is fire safety designed with accessibility in mind: consistent, rapid detection and clear system responses support safe evacuation for everyone, including passengers who may need more time or assistance.

With the Blue Line planned to extend the network by 30 km by 2029, the approach scales, adding more detectors and maintaining the same inclusive standard of protection as ridership grows.

The Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital faced a very different challenge, minimising false alarms in a complex healthcare environment without compromising safety for vulnerable patients.

The installation team deployed intelligent multi-sensor technology and integrated addressable panels from Hochiki across eight buildings, the site reduced unnecessary evacuations that could otherwise disorient or endanger those in critical care.

These projects demonstrate that inclusive systems are about understanding human needs and the surrounding environment to deliver technical solutions that respond with precision and care.

What to look for in a technology partner

Manufacturers that specialise in life safety and offer comprehensive solutions, such as detection, emergency lighting and EVC integration, can simplify specification and improve system coherence.

Features such as programmable control panels, self-testing luminaires in emergency lighting and systems which enable staged evacuation logic can reduce maintenance burden and support vulnerable building users more effectively.

System functions that support inclusion

Inclusive life safety systems combine various alerting methods to ensure everyone receives timely warnings.

These typically include audible alarms, VADs that meet relevant safety standards and where required, tactile signals.

Control equipment should support voice announcements and phased evacuation, particularly in large or multi-use buildings.

Manual call points need to be accessible in terms of height and placement and are increasingly available in wireless formats to support design flexibility.

Emergency lighting should be addressable and capable of directing people around hazards dynamically.

In addition, refuge areas must include two-way EVC systems to enable communication between those waiting and the building’s control centre or emergency services.

These are functional requirements already being delivered across globally.

Designing for varied user needs improves safety for all occupants, not just those with visible impairments.

Present yourself as a trusted partner to clients, focus on:

• Work with specialists – align with manufacturers who focus solely on life safety, ensuring the systems you install are designed with this purpose in mind.

• Offer complete solutions – demonstrate how you can deliver fire detection, emergency lighting and EVC integration as one coherent system.

• Provide wireless options – recommend wireless technology where heritage buildings, healthcare sites, complex designs or retrofits make cabling impractical.

• Highlight adaptable features – show clients the value of programmable panels, staged evacuation logic and flexible device placement for meeting diverse needs.

• Reduce ongoing burden – promote solutions with self-testing emergency lighting and other smart maintenance features that save time and support vulnerable users.

• Prove compliance through examples – share project experience and reference accredited products to give clients confidence in your approach.

For installers, presenting themselves as aligned with these values can help clients see them not only as system integrators but as trusted partners who will deliver safety strategies that remain robust over time.

Shifting expectations in fire safety

Inclusive design is no longer a future goal; it is here and now and should reflect both societal values and legal obligations.

Installers who take accessibility into account early in the design process are helping set a new standard for life safety.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Principles for placement: How Burns and Wilcox UAE aligns UAE codes with NFPA 72

by Featured NewsFire DetectionMENA - Featured News

Fahri Yiyin, Risk Engineering Manager, Burns and Wilcox UAE, explains detector definitions and outlines key spacing and installation requirements across UAE and NFPA standards

Fire detection systems occupy a crucial position among fire safety measures, serving as an essential component in protecting life and property.

Owing to the wide range of available detector types, such systems can be effectively implemented in residential buildings, industrial facilities, offices, and numerous indoor or outdoor environments.

This brief research document highlights the general application principles of smoke and heat detectors.

In practice, these systems are expected to respond consistently under varied environmental and architectural conditions.

Understanding how definitions and spacing rules translate into actual layouts is therefore central to reliable design and to demonstrating compliance within the UAE.

Key definitions in the UAE code

According to the UAE Fire and Life Safety Practice Code, clause 1.2.13 defines a smoke detector as “a device used for detecting visible and invisible particles of smoke resulting from combustion.” The clause further clarifies that several operating principles are utilized for smoke detection, such as photoelectrical and ionization spot-type detectors, air-sampling detectors, and optical beam-type smoke detectors.

The definition “a device in which the sensitive element is fixed in a certain location,” provided in clause 1.2.14, specifically refers to spot-type detectors.

The definition of a heat detector is “a fire detector that detects either abnormally high temperature or rate of rise, or both” (1.2.7).

Together, these definitions frame how designers select detector types for different risks.

Spot-type detectors, beam detectors and air-sampling systems each have distinct strengths, but all must be applied in line with the code language and the conditions found on site.

Using NFPA standards alongside UAE requirements

Moreover, clause 2.2.4 emphasizes that the requirements outlined in the code represent only the minimum guidelines, and it remains the consultant’s responsibility to refer to NFPA 70, NFPA 72, NFPA 75, NFPA 76, NFPA 110, NFPA 111, and manufacturer design specifications for detailed criteria.

Consequently, the placement and design of detectors are further evaluated in accordance with NFPA 72.

This approach allows the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice to establish regulatory expectations while NFPA 72 supplies detailed technical provisions.

For project teams, that means drawing on both documents during design, specification and review, rather than treating either source in isolation.

Spacing rules for flat and sloped ceilings

For spot-type smoke detectors, the maximum installation height is specified as 10 meters, as indicated in Figure 8.8 of the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice.

In NFPA 72 (2019 Edition), Section 17.7.3.2 Spot-Type Smoke Detectors provides detailed guidance on the placement, coverage, and application of smoke detectors.

According to the standard, spot-type smoke detectors must be installed directly on the ceiling, while detectors mounted on walls should be positioned no more than 12 inches (305 mm) below the ceiling (Clause 17.7.3.2.1).

In industrial facilities, ceilings are generally smooth or sloped.

Under the definition of flat ceilings, Clause 17.7.3.2.4.2 specifies that a ceiling with beam depths not exceeding 10 percent of the ceiling height is considered flat for the purpose of detector installation.

For such flat ceilings, the maximum spacing between two detectors should not exceed 9.1 meters, while the maximum distance between a detector and an adjacent wall (corner) is defined as 0.7 × 9.1 = 6.4 meters (Clause 17.7.3.2.3.1).

These values represent nominal coverage assumptions that must be checked against building conditions.

Ceiling height, local airflow and potential obstructions can all influence how smoke reaches a detector, so the tabulated distances are often treated as a starting point, not a fixed layout.

In the case of sloped ceilings, detectors should be installed parallel to the slope and positioned along the ceiling surface, ensuring effective smoke collection in accordance with airflow and thermal patterns.

Additional considerations for detector placement near peak points of sloped ceilings are further detailed in Clause 17.7.3.3, which provides specific requirements for optimizing detection performance in varying roof geometries.

The distance between detectors and walls should not exceed 50% of the spacing between two adjacent detectors.

The 0.7 S rule applies specifically to corner points.

On sloped roofs and in high-bay areas, these requirements are particularly important where smoke may stratify or track along the highest parts of the structure.

Aligning rows of detectors with the slope and reviewing peak locations helps maintain coverage where smoke might otherwise bypass devices.

Annex guidance and irregular layouts

Clause 17.7.3.2.3.4 of NFPA 72 (2019 Edition) specifies that Annex A and Annex B may be referenced as supplementary guidelines for smoke detector installation.

Within Annex A, the maximum spacing for spot-type heat detectors is indicated as 15.2 meters, subject to the detector manufacturer’s certification and listing.

The minimum spacing is stated as 3.1 meters (10 ft), while the midpoint value of 9.1 meters is considered standard.

In NFPA 72 (2019 Edition), the placement of smoke or heat detectors in irregularly shaped areas is illustrated in Figure A.17.6.3.1.1(h).

Spacing between detectors may be extended up to 12.5 meters, provided the distance from any wall point to a detector does not exceed 6.4 meters.

Annex material is explanatory rather than mandatory, but it provides practical illustrations that are often essential in non-standard geometries.

Designers can use these diagrams to test whether proposed layouts meet both the spacing rules and the intent of the standard in corners, alcoves and other irregular zones.

In many UAE projects, this combined use of prescriptive clauses and annex examples is supported by simple calculation checks or smoke modelling, together with early consultation with device manufacturers.

This helps demonstrate that detector arrangements are aligned with both code expectations and the documented performance limits of the chosen devices.

For consultants and system designers, the outcome is a more transparent design process.

Clear reference back to UAE clauses, NFPA provisions and relevant annex figures allows spacing decisions to be justified in technical reports, shared with contractors and revisited during future building modifications without losing sight of the original design rationale.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Unlocking the potential of BESS: Kentec’s case for standardised, whole-system certification

by Featured NewsFire Detection

By Derrick Hall, Director of Sales & Marketing at Kentec Electronics Ltd and Nick Bartlett, principal engineer and founder of fire protection engineering and consulting firm, ATAR Fire

Battery energy storage solutions (BESS) are an integral part of the world’s sustainability shift, but their inherent fire risk presents developers with a huge challenge.

Because while BESS facilities are being built at pace, the regulations are not keeping up.

Instead, the industry faces a complex jigsaw of rules, recommendations, and best practice across jurisdictions.

We believe that standardised, whole-system certification is the only way to unlock the potential of this emerging market – and to keep people and investments safe.

Challenges and opportunities

The BESS market is expanding at rapidly.

Currently valued at around $7.8 billion globally, the industry is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.9% over the coming years.

The main reason is sustainability.

Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, can be intermittent, and BESS provides a way to store power for use when the sun is not shining and the wind is not blowing.

At the same time, energy security has become a major concern, leading to energy-intensive operations, such as data centres, to adopting BESS technology for backup power during shortages or supply interruptions.

Another driving force is the emerging energy arbitrage market, in which companies purchase electricity during low-cost periods, store it in BESS systems, and sell it back to the grid when prices rise.

The scale of the opportunity, however, is matched by the scale of the fire safety challenge.

Facilities store energy in lithium-ion batteries, which are highly sensitive to temperature and inherently flammable.

 When a battery produces more heat than it can safely disperse, it can enter thermal runaway, a chain reaction that causes temperatures to rise uncontrollably.

Overcharging or system faults can cause the release of flammable gases such as hydrogen.

As they accumulate within a BESS module, they can trigger explosions that emit toxic fumes and hazardous materials.

Prolonged exposure to high heat also accelerates battery degradation, further increasing the likelihood of failure.

With a single BESS installation containing hundreds or even thousands of lithium-ion batteries, a fire that starts in one cell can quickly spread throughout the entire system.

And once they start, these fires are notoriously difficult to control.

Fragmented landscape

The frameworks governing the safe installation and operation of BESS facilities are still catching up with their rapid development, and, across the industry, perceptions of safety and best practice vary widely.

Regulators, consultants, and insurance companies often interpret requirements differently, resulting in a patchwork of approaches that breeds uncertainty.

From product design to installation and operation, everyone appears to have a different perception of safety, and of what is required to protect it.

This has led to hesitation and, in some cases, questionable operational philosophies, including the so-called “let it burn” approach.

The reasoning was straightforward but stark.

Fires that break out in high-voltage containerised battery systems are highly unpredictable.

The safest course for emergency responders, then, may simply be to stand back and allow them to burn themselves out.

Yet while life safety must always come first, “let it burn” not only leaves high value assets in ruins, it also runs counter to the ethos of fire prevention and protection.

Change is starting to happen, but we are not yet there yet.

Thanks to advances in detection, suppression, and explosion-mitigation technologies , we are now seeing far more emphasis on integrated detection and control systems that move the model from containment to prevention.

Yet with every jurisdiction still approaching BESS safety differently, there remains room for confusion.

In the United States, for example, NFPA 855, defines installation requirements for stationary energy storage systems.

UL 9540 and UL 9540A address BESS system certification and thermal runaway and fire propagation characteristics, while UL 2075 governs hydrogen and gas detection.

Each standard serves a specific purpose, but bringing them together into a coherent framework remains a work in progress.

What’s more, even where certification does exist, it can mask inconsistencies.

A system carrying a UL 9540 listing, for instance, is not always verified down to its individual components.

In some cases, testing laboratories perform construction reviews without confirming that every fan, vent, or sensor is independently listed.

As such, a certified container may well be built from unlisted parts.

The same applies to safety systems.

Deflagration vents or extraction fans may be noted in certification documents, but their actual performance and compliance with performance standards such as NFPA 68 or NFPA 69 may never have been validated.

Without tighter oversight, quality can vary significantly between manufacturers and testing laboratories.

The global nature of the BESS market compounds the challenge.

Products are often designed and manufactured in one country and sold across many others.

Greater standardisation has the potential to close these gaps.

A universal framework combining NFPA 855 with UL 9540, UL 9540A, and UL 2075 would streamline expectations, raise the quality baseline for manufacturers, and simplify approval processes for new projects.

NFPA 855 is already gaining traction as an internationally recognised reference standard, but there is still much work to be done.

Another area ripe for improvement is system compatibility.

Under current UL 9540 rules, fire panels and detectors are not typically evaluated for compatibility, even though they must operate as a unified safety system.

Outside of BESS applications, US codes such as the International Fire Code already mandate compatibility, but this principle has not been integrated into energy-storage standards.

The presence of battery management systems, which play a key role in mitigating potential incidents, and their overall integration with other systems, remains inconsistent.

Proactive action

Some manufacturers are proactively bridging the compliance gaps by ensuring all components of their safety solutions are UL-listed.

This whole-system approach represents best practice, even if it’s not yet mandatory.

Kentec, for example, has taken a whole-system certification approach, by ensuring its panels, detectors, and ancillary devices are UL-listed together.

Their integrated BESS fire preventative solution includes a UL 864-approved panel, UL 268-approved smoke detector, and the K-Detect-iON hydrogen sensor, which carries UL 2074 and UL 2075 listings referenced against the panel

K-Detect-iON remains the only UL 2075-listed, calibration-free hydrogen sensor developed specifically for BESS applications, requiring no recalibration for at least 10 years.

And its UL 2075 approval offers authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and contractors clear evidence of component-level compliance.

It integrates seamlessly with Kentec’s Sigma extinguishant panels, which also meet leading global standards, including EN 54 Parts 2 and 4, EN 12094 Part 1, UL 864 (10th Edition – imminent release following extensive field trials) [Pending UL approval]*, FM Standards, and NFPA 855 Energy Storage Protection.

The offering positions Kentec’s solution as a benchmark for standardised, compliant BESS safety design.

The road ahead

As BESS deployments continue to expand, we need to acknowledge that properly certified, fully compatible systems are not just safer, but also more commercially viable.

Building aligned global standards is essential, and will require collaboration between manufacturers, consultants, code developers, and enforcement authorities, alike.

That won’t happen over night.

But for now, taking a comprehensive approach to compliance, ensuring every component in a system is UL-listed and tested as part of an integrated whole, is the best practice benchmark for risk mitigation, and for future-proof BESS.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Transforming commercial fire safety: How Ajax Systems is changing installer expectations

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionSafety

Paul Pope, Global Head of Fire & Life Safety Business at Ajax Systems, outlines wireless standards for installers through current European compliance requirements

What does EN54 certification require in practice and why does it matter for detection and alarm system performance?

In Europe, fire detection and alarm products must comply with the essential safety and performance requirements of the EN 54 Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and must be CE marked to be legally sold or placed on the market in European Union countries.

So, in Europe, performance specifications must state that the products must meet the relevant EN 54 product standards.

They must also state that product testing, inspection and certification must be carried out by a Notified Body,

A Notified Body is authorised by the EU to assess products under the relevant EN 54 CPR regulations.

Critical tasks performed by Notified Bodies include testing the product/s, verifying the supporting evidence that a product meets the test requirements, issuing a product certificate and undertaking ongoing testing or surveillance activities.

 To achieve consistent regulatory compliance for their products, manufacturers can choose which EU Notified Body to appoint as long as it is certified to test against the relevant EN 54 standards.

What are EN54 Line’s key elements and how do they differ from traditional wired systems installers commonly use?

The main elements of our wireless system do not differ from those of traditional wired systems, with the exception of the additional product certification to EN54-25.

The EN54-25 European Standard specifies requirements, test methods and performance criteria for components used in fire alarm systems, installed in and around buildings, which use radio frequency links (RF links) to communicate.

It also provides requirements for the evaluation of conformity of the components to the requirements.

In addition to the other specific EN54 standards applicable to each fire product, for example, a wireless optical smoke detector would need both EN54-25 and EN54-7 to be listed on the EU CPR certificate to be fully compliant.

How does Ajax’s wireless approach aim to address the challenges of installation time and system complexity?

Ajax has designed the EN54 Line to be easier to install and configure, with cutting-edge technology and exceptionally high reliability.

Ajax fire detection and alarm systems resist signal jamming and provide a high level of protection that is not inferior in reliability to that of their wired counterparts.

Wireless systems focus on reducing disruption to the building structure, remedial works, structural damage, re-decoration and the need for costly fire-stopping.

Installation time constraints and access to areas within an operational business have always been challenges for professional installers.

The EN54 Line will address these issues and provide a cost-effective alternative to wired systems, as well as reducing the health and safety risks associated with installing cables and containment systems.

It was important for Ajax to provide the sector with a flexible system solution that can protect the premises not only from fire but also integrate security, automation scenarios and surveillance into one complete ecosystem.

System compatibility assurance is fundamental within fire and life safety systems.

There is a growing shift away from a product-based approach and towards a systems-based approach to specifying fire detection equipment.

We have witnessed a marked increase in the number of authorities, specifiers, installers and end users requesting the latest version of EN 54-13 system compatibility compliance and we are also seeing EN 54-13 compliance being stated in the certification requirements for commercial installations in several European countries.

EN 54-13 is a rigorous standard that proves all the components in a fire safety system are compatible and connectable, thereby working effectively as one system.

The EN54 Line has been certified to EN54-13, which will provide installers with the necessary third-party audited documentation and thus prove compliance with the system compatibility clauses written into many standards.

How does the system maintain resilience through power management, signal range and backup operation during outages?

The Ajax Fire Hub CIE (Control and indicating equipment) is responsible for managing the entire system and communicating with the cloud, the user and the fire/security company.

Radio communicators are built in and provide seamless connectivity between the Fire Hub and addressable fire detectors, sounders, VADs, I/O modules, manual call points and other system devices.

The Ajax Fire Hub is equipped with either 24 or 72-hour rechargeable back-up power supplies and four communication channels, Ethernet, Wi-Fi and two SIM card slots.

This principle of operation allows you to connect the device to two different Internet providers via Ethernet and Wi-Fi, as well as two cellular networks.

This means that when one of the communication channels is jammed, the system switches to backup channels, after which it informs users and the fire/security company about the jamming attempt.

Automatic switching between channels takes seconds.

The system uses the Ajax Jeweller communication protocol to transmit real-time device states, alarms, events and all measured readings to Ajax apps.

The Wings and TurboWings protocols are designed to ensure visual verification and large data packets for individual settings, such as interface languages and firmware updates.

The wireless range can reach up to 1,800 m.

The Ajax wireless fire alarm system devices can operate on dual pre-installed batteries without replacement for four to seven years.

Two-way communication allows you to track the status of system elements (charge level, etc.) via the EN54 Fire Hub and in mobile applications.

The user will be informed about the need to replace any batteries, as well as about the loss of communication with all of the elements of the system.

To enlarge system coverage, especially in large or multi-level buildings, there is EN54 REX Jeweller.

It extends the range between the system devices, supporting communication via both Ajax’s proprietary radio protocols (Jeweller, Wings and TurboWings) and Ethernet.

With five range extenders connected to one Fire Hub, the coverage can be boosted to up to 35 km².

The Ajax wireless fire alarm system devices can operate on dual pre-installed batteries without replacement for four to seven years.

Two-way communication allows you to track the status of system elements (charge level, etc.) via the EN54 Fire Hub and in mobile applications.

The user will be informed about the need to replace any batteries, as well as about the loss of communication with all of the elements of the system.

What advantages does EN54 Line offer installers in terms of business opportunities and everyday system usability?

Redefining how easy and fast a fire alarm can be installed in an industry known for its complexity is a major advantage to any business.

 All the components can be added and configured via the Ajax mobile or desktop apps, so getting started is as efficient as it gets.

There is no need to program complex logic manually – configure the system using human-readable text through an intuitive, self-explanatory interface.

The EN54 Line devices work in synergy with our free mobile and desktop apps, which seamlessly integrate into the professionals’ workflow.

Ajax applications allow for managing all devices across the system: fire alarm, intrusion protection, video surveillance and automation.

There is no programming or outdated configuration tools – just an intuitive interface for faster installations, easier facility management and efficient remote service.

How does visual alarm verification contribute to safety and decision-making in real emergency situations?

The increasing use of remote monitoring of fire protection systems, whilst not completely new, has been ushered in, despite the fire industry typically being slow to adapt to such technology.

What we are seeing now is just the start of the remote connectivity revolution.

Professional monitoring is now available beyond the basic fire and fault events that have been the norm for so long.

It can no longer be taken for granted that Fire and rescue services will attend automatic alarms.

Many individual services now require confirmation of a real fire before dispatching crews to an activation.

To ensure a response, you must verify the alarm is genuine or have a person at the site confirm the fire.

Advanced fire technology within the EN54 Line will provide central monitoring stations and end-users with more detailed, actionable information than ever – including precise alarm data, visual verification, live and archived video feeds and voice communication.

Smart integration with other related systems will provide real-time intelligence, which can radically increase the speed of information, control and response to evolving emergency situations.

How will wireless systems evolve under regulatory and commercial pressures and what role will Ajax play?

There is a growing Global demand for reliable, secure technology that provides solutions to real issues and wireless integrated systems will evolve further to meet the future demands.

With this fast-paced high technology, it is important to be up to date with regulatory insights and develop robust compliance strategies into the design and development processes.

The importance of data protection, ensuring client confidentiality and protecting sensitive information, alongside the latest cybersecurity, will ensure all potential and real risks to future systems through connectivity and inter-connectivity will be eliminated.

In a professional sector such as fire, product standards, regulation and certification development play an important role in enabling innovation to enter markets.

We will continue to work with trade associations, governments, standards and certification bodies to help shape the future of our industries.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Leading detection and raising fire safety standards: How Advanced is shaping Middle East projects

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Advanced’s Sasi Kumar, Sargunan Sellamuthu and Shadi Elhag talks driving fire safety innovation, delivering solutions for complex environments and meeting the needs of a changing market

Across the Middle East, questions about how detection, control and communication keep pace with rapid construction are now central to everyday project decisions.

In this trio of articles from Advanced, Sasi Kumar, General Manager MEA, considers technology demands highlighted at Intersec Dubai 2026.

Sargunan Sellamuthu, Business Development Manager Middle East, examines lessons from recent cinema, tunnel and mixed-use installations.

Shadi Elhag, Business Development Manager Middle East, focuses on residential and commercial projects shaped by changing codes and rising expectations for coordinated smoke control and communication.

Driving fire safety innovation with Sasi Kumar

The Middle East is experiencing a period of unprecedented growth, with new developments rising across the region, from the ambitious giga projects of Saudi Arabia to the luxury towers of Dubai and the expanding infrastructure of Qatar.

As urban landscapes evolve, so too do the challenges of protecting people and property.

At Advanced, our commitment is to deliver fire safety solutions that not only meet today’s requirements but anticipate the needs of tomorrow’s cities.

Intersec Dubai 2026, taking place from 12-14 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is the region’s premier platform for fire and security innovation.

This year, we’re proud to showcase our latest UL and EN fire protection technologies at Stand F24 in Hall 4, reflecting our ongoing investment in the Middle East and our dedication to supporting projects of every scale and complexity.

Our portfolio is designed to address the region’s diverse requirements.

The UL 864-approved Axis AX system is engineered for large-scale, high-rise, and mission-critical applications, offering robust networking for up to 200 panels, rapid communication, and advanced cause-and-effect programming.

Features such as PerfectSync technology ensure synchronised strobes and audio alerts, eliminating confusion during emergencies, a vital capability for tall buildings where voice evacuation is essential and fire brigade access can be limited.

Integrated audio supports both live paging and pre-recorded messages, with multi-channel delivery for clarity and coordination.

For EN-standard projects, the next-generation Axis EN system delivers enhanced performance, energy efficiency, and configuration flexibility.

Its hybrid wired and wireless capability makes it ideal for retrofits, heritage sites, and complex installations where dependable connectivity is paramount.

We’re also addressing the persistent challenge of false alarms with AlarmCalm, available on Axis EN and MxPro 5 panels, enabling tailored investigation delays and verification logic to minimise unnecessary evacuations and downtime.

But our commitment goes beyond detection.

At Intersec, we’ll be demonstrating DynamixSmoke, a visual, grid-based tool that simplifies smoke control configuration for fans, dampers, and pressurisation systems.

For asset protection, ExGo provides reliable extinguishing control, approved to EN12094-1 and EN54 standards, safeguarding critical equipment without water damage.

AxisGo brings the benefits of Axis EN to single-loop, non-networkable panels that are quick to install and easy to configure, while QuickZone provides dependable conventional protection across up to 32 zones.

As development accelerates across sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and transportation, the need for intelligent, adaptable fire protection grows.

Advanced works closely with regional partners and is actively seeking new collaborations to support evolving safety requirements across the Middle East.

Our team will be on hand throughout Intersec to discuss how we can help meet your project needs, whether you require UL-listed systems for large-scale developments or EN solutions for complex retrofits.

Axis AX in Action with Sargunan Sellamuthu

The diversity of projects in the Middle East demands fire safety systems that are not only powerful but also adaptable.

Our experience with installations such as Reel Cinemas in Bahrain’s Marassi Mall demonstrates the value of a flexible, integrated approach.

In this project, the Axis AX system was selected for its ability to manage a dynamic environment, protecting cinema-goers and staff across multiple screens, VIP lounges, kitchens, and common areas.

The Axis AX’s advanced configuration options and robust networking allowed us to overcome logistical challenges, integrating seamlessly with third-party systems like access control, fan units, kitchen hoods, and gas suppression.

The inclusion of voice evacuation has ensured clear, effective communication in emergencies, while the system’s scalability means it can grow with the venue’s needs.

This versatility is echoed in other sectors.

For example, in Oman’s Bidbid Tunnel, the Axis AX system was chosen for its resilience in a challenging environment, integrating fire detection, suppression, and jet fan control to manage smoke and ensure safe evacuation.

The ability to tailor solutions, whether for a high-rise, a tunnel, or a shopping mall, sets Advanced apart.

Our EN-approved Axis EN platform offers similar strengths for projects requiring compliance with European standards.

Its hybrid capability allows wired and wireless devices to be combined, making it ideal for heritage sites or live buildings where cabling is impractical.

The system’s networking supports up to 200 panels, providing a future-proof foundation for even the largest developments.

A key trend we’re seeing is the growing demand for integrated systems that combine fire detection, smoke control, and voice evacuation in a single platform.

This not only simplifies design and installation but also enhances safety by ensuring all critical functions are coordinated.

For example, in the Marassi Mall project, the Axis AX system’s PerfectSync technology ensured that audio and visual evacuation signals were perfectly synchronised across the entire network, eliminating confusion and enabling faster, safer evacuations.

Another area of focus is false alarm management.

In environments such as hotels, hospitals, and shopping centres, unwanted alarms can be highly disruptive and costly.

Our AlarmCalm technology, available in Axis EN systems, allows for tailored investigation delays and verification logic, reducing false alarms without compromising safety.

We also recognise the importance of ongoing support and training.

Our technical teams work closely with installers and end users to ensure systems are configured correctly and maintained to the highest standards.

Ultimately, our goal is to deliver peace of mind.

By offering systems that are easy to configure, integrate, and expand, we help our clients protect people and assets, no matter how complex the environment.

Meeting the needs of a changing market with Shadi Elhag

The Middle East’s construction boom is driving demand for intelligent, integrated fire safety solutions, especially in the residential and commercial sectors.

In Saudi Arabia, for example, the rise of giga projects and high-rise developments has brought new challenges and opportunities for fire protection.

Recent tragedies, such as the Cairo Telecommunications fire, have underscored the importance of smoke control and voice evacuation.

In response, the Saudi Fire Protection code now includes dedicated chapters on smoke control, and end users are prioritising systems that combine detection, smoke management, and coordinated evacuation.

Our Axis AX and Axis EN platforms are designed to meet these needs.

In Dubai’s Sobha S Tower, a landmark residential development, the Axis EN system provides comprehensive protection with addressable panels, voice evacuation, fire telephone, and smoke management capabilities.

The network supports seamless communication across all areas, ensuring rapid response and peace of mind for residents.

End users are also seeking solutions that offer interoperability, remote monitoring, and future-ready features.

We are also seeing increased interest in solutions tailored to the unique needs of different sectors.

For example, in the hospitality industry, the ability to provide multi-language voice evacuation messages and integrate with guest management systems is highly valued.

In healthcare, rapid detection and targeted evacuation are critical, while in education, systems must be robust, easy to use, and capable of supporting large, complex campuses.

Looking to the future, we anticipate continued growth in demand for scalable, networked systems that can adapt to changing requirements.

The ability to support large networks, up to 200 panels with Axis AX and Axis EN, ensures our solutions remain relevant as projects expand or evolve.

We are also investing in new technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance detection accuracy, reduce false alarms, and support predictive maintenance.

As the region continues to evolve, our commitment remains the same: to provide reliable, scalable, and innovative fire safety systems that protect lives and support the ambitions of the Middle East’s growing cities.

By working closely with our partners, listening to our customers, and investing in the future, we are helping to raise fire safety standards across the region.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Olympia Electronics outlines Intersec Dubai 2026 activity and focus

by Featured NewsFire DetectionLightingMENA - Featured News

Olympia Electronics at Intersec Dubai 2026

Olympia Electronics took part in Intersec Dubai 2026, presenting its fire detection and emergency lighting systems to an international audience.

The company said it engaged with partners, consultants and industry professionals from across the Middle East, Africa and Asia during the exhibition.

Its presence at the event included collaboration with its local market partner, Scientechnic, reflecting an approach centred on regional partnerships and market-specific delivery.

Systems and applications presented

Visitors to the Olympia Electronics stand were shown certified systems intended for use in modern buildings and critical infrastructure projects.

The company said the systems on display were designed to meet regulatory requirements while supporting straightforward installation and ongoing operation.

Addressable fire detection solutions and emergency lighting systems attracted interest, with a focus on safety, reliability and long-term operational efficiency.

Regional support and market approach

Olympia Electronics said its work with Scientechnic during Intersec Dubai supported local technical expertise and region-specific solutions.

The collaboration was presented as a way to apply international standards within local regulatory and operational contexts.

Olympia Electronics said it continues to focus on international markets through long-term partnerships and the supply of dependable safety systems.

Fire safety upgrade targets discreet VESDA pipework in leisure and tourism venues

by EvacuationFeatured NewsFire DetectionFire SuppressionProducts

Fire safety pipework options for customer-facing venues

Fire Suppression Ltd is offering a new generation of fire safety systems designed to integrate more discreetly into customer-facing environments.

The UK supplier specialises in aspirating smoke detection systems based on VESDA (Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus) technology.

These systems provide early warning by continuously sampling air throughout a structure, often detecting fire before visible smoke or flames appear.

Fire Suppression manufactures its VESDA pipework at its UK facility.

The pipework is available in a range of colours, allowing installations to blend into ceilings and walls.

This design approach is intended for environments such as leisure and tourism venues where visual impact is a consideration.

VESDA use case in large, high-ceiling spaces

According to Fire Suppression, leisure and tourism venues often occupy large, high-ceiling spaces where traditional smoke detectors can struggle to operate effectively.

These environments may also be occupied by large numbers of people, which can extend evacuation times in the event of a fire.

Aspirating smoke detection systems such as VESDA are therefore increasingly used in these sectors to provide early and accurate detection while maximising available evacuation time.

John Martin-Chicharro, Wholesale Manager at Fire Suppression, said: “VESDA represents a significant innovation in early-warning fire safety. However, these systems traditionally use bright pipework that can be visually intrusive in customer-facing environments.

“With our in-house manufacturing capabilities, we can configure systems using alternative pipe colours, enabling leisure and tourism venues to maintain the highest levels of fire safety without compromising visual aesthetics or customer experience”

Martin-Chicharro added: “Early detection is absolutely critical in crowded public environments.

“Aspirating systems give venue operators the confidence to protect people from fire and, with our in-house manufactured pipes, we can also ensure the system’s pipes complement the property’s surroundings too!”

Fire Suppression supports sectors including retail, commercial, industrial, leisure and tourism.

The company works with property managers and fire system installers, providing bespoke system design services and customer support.