Advanced fire protection systems for battery storage, offshore wind and critical infrastructure

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionFire SuppressionIFSJ ExclusivesPorts & MaritimeWarehouse

HAFEX CEO Ufuk Can Günaydın discusses how advanced fire protection systems are evolving to support battery energy storage, offshore wind, marine operations and critical infrastructure in increasingly complex risk environments

As industries accelerate investment in renewable energy, electrification, critical infrastructure and offshore operations, fire protection requirements are becoming increasingly complex.

From Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and offshore wind turbines to marine vessels, high-risk environments require suppression systems designed specifically for operational demands that conventional solutions may not fully address.

In this context, HAFEX, a fire protection engineering company specialising in suppression technologies for technically demanding sectors, develops and manufactures fire protection systems with a focus on reliability, certification and performance in mission-critical environments.

Led by Fire Engineer and CEO Ufuk Can Günaydın, the company has expanded internationally by developing sector[1]specific solutions tailored to challenging operating conditions, including offshore environments, battery storage installations, telecommunications infrastructure and military assets.

“The key factor has been our ability to combine engineering expertise with sector-specific fire protection solutions,” Günaydın tells IFSJ. “These industries require more than standard fire suppression; they demand reliability, certification, adaptability and a deep understanding of operational risks.”

Fire protection strategies for battery energy storage systems

As renewable energy deployment accelerates globally, HAFEX has identified BESS as a major strategic growth area.

“BESS applications are one of the most important focus areas for us,” says Günaydın. “Lithium-ion battery fires behave very differently from conventional fires, especially because of thermal runaway and the risk of re-ignition.”

To address these challenges, HAFEX has developed aerosol and clean-agent suppression technologies designed for rapid activation, early-stage suppression and protection within enclosed battery environments.

The company also places emphasis on system integration, detection and risk-based design, aiming to reduce fire spread and support safer long-term operation of infrastructure.

Fire protection challenges across offshore wind and marine infrastructure

Marine and offshore environments represent another major focus area for HAFEX, particularly as offshore wind development continues to expand globally.

“Offshore and marine environments are challenging because fire protection systems must operate under harsh conditions such as vibration, humidity, saltwater exposure, limited access and extreme weather,” Günaydın explains.

For its part, HAFEX has developed systems incorporating real-time fire detection, continuous temperature monitoring and daily reporting of environmental changes to support early risk identification.

The company protects wind turbine risk zones separately, including nacelles, transformers and electrical cabinets, allowing more targeted suppression and risk management.

This approach has already been tested in operational environments. According to HAFEX, seven discharge cases have been recorded within installations for Enel Green Power Mexico across more than 300 Siemens Gamesa wind turbines, with three confirmed fire incidents successfully extinguished.

Following these deployments, the company has expanded further into the Asia-Pacific region, where it has reported protecting more than 400 offshore wind turbines across multiple global turbine brands.

Fire suppression solutions for critical electronic infrastructure

Meanwhile, in environments containing sensitive electronic infrastructure, fire suppression requirements differ significantly from conventional industrial settings. The priority is not only extinguishing fire quickly but doing so without damaging critical assets or disrupting operations.

“For sensitive electronics, the goal is not only to extinguish the fire but also to protect the equipment and avoid damaging the electronics,” says Günaydın.

Accordingly, HAFEX manufactures a certified strontium-based aerosol suppression system designed to avoid the conductivity issues that potassium-based extinguishing agents faces, particularly strontium-based aerosols has no hydrophilic characteristics.

The company proves that it’s clean and electrically non-conductive suppression technologies are suitable for data centres, server rooms, electrical cabinets and telecommunication systems.

HAFEX also reports protecting more than 4,000 4G and 5G base stations globally. “Our approach focuses on fast detection, targeted suppression and minimal residue—nearly none—which allows critical systems to remain protected without causing secondary damage,” Günaydın explains.

Fire protection requirements for defence and military applications

HAFEX also supplies fire suppression systems for naval and air force applications, where reliability and compliance requirements are significantly more demanding than in many commercial projects.

“Defence applications require a much higher level of reliability, durability and technical compliance,” says Günaydın. “Systems must perform under vibration, shock, restricted space, temperature variation and demanding operational conditions.”

Because defence platforms often involve mission-critical assets, fire protection systems must be engineered to function consistently under extreme operational stress.

In that respect, its defence-focused aerosol generators incorporate three detection and activation mechanisms within a single unit, alongside self-activation capability at 300°C.

Preparing for future fire risks

Looking ahead, HAFEX sees one of the biggest challenges as managing fire risks associated with rapidly evolving technologies. “The biggest challenge will be protecting new technologies before risks become widespread,” Günaydın explains.

Electrification, automation, renewable energy infrastructure, data centres and high-density battery systems are all creating new fire scenarios that legacy suppression technologies may not fully address.

At the same time, they are creating new opportunities for manufacturers capable of delivering specialised and application-specific solutions. “We believe the future will require smarter, more compact, environmentally responsible and application-specific suppression systems,” says Günaydın.

Li-ion BESS fire safety standards: how off-gas detection is reshaping battery safety regulations

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionFire DetectionFire SuppressionGas DetectionIFSJ ExclusivesWarehouse

As lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) deployments accelerate worldwide, Honeywell explains how evolving Li-ion BESS fire safety standards and off-gas detection technologies are transforming thermal runaway prevention and regulatory compliance

The global stationary lithium-ion (Li-ion) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) market is entering a period of rapid expansion. Driven by net-zero commitments, grid modernisation and surging energy demand linked to AI infrastructure and data centres, the sector is expected to grow at more than 18.5%  annually through 2034, according to Global Market Insights.

But as deployment accelerates, so too does scrutiny of one of the sector’s biggest risks: thermal runaway.

Until recently, the stationary BESS industry operated in a relatively underdeveloped regulatory environment, despite the growing use of large-scale lithium-ion battery systems in utilities, data centres, telecoms and commercial infrastructure.

That began to change in 2020 with the introduction of new off-gas detection technologies capable of identifying electrolyte solvent vapours released before thermal runaway begins.

These systems represented a significant shift in fire safety strategy. Rather than relying solely on conventional fire suppression, ventilation or flammable gas detection, the industry began focusing on earlier intervention.

This technological development has since influenced a wave of new fire safety standards, product certifications and building codes aimed specifically at Li-ion BESS risks.

For fire safety engineers, OEMs, system integrators and BESS operators, understanding this evolving regulatory landscape is now critical to ensuring compliance and future-proofing installations.

Why Li-ion BESS thermal runaway demands a new fire safety approach

Thermal runaway remains the defining fire hazard in lithium-ion battery systems. Before thermal runaway, lithium-ion cells  typically vent trace amounts of electrolyte vapours and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Detecting these early warning signs can provide a critical intervention window (in some cases up to 30 minutes) to isolate affected batteries, stop charging and activate ventilation.

This shift from reaction to prevention is now being embedded into standards worldwide.

How NFPA and UL standards are reshaping Li-ion BESS fire safety

The US-based National Fire Protection  Association (NFPA), whose standards are widely referenced globally, has been central to this regulatory evolution.

NFPA 855 has become the cornerstone standard for stationary energy storage installations. The updated edition introduced stronger requirements. Notably, Annex G of NFPA 855 explicitly recognises the limitations of Lower Explosion Limit (LEL) sensors and battery voltage monitoring as thermal runaway safeguards.

Instead, the guidance highlights off-gas monitoring as one of the most effective methods for early detection, stating that cell-level detection close to or inside battery modules provides the most reliable pre-thermal-runaway warning.

The standard also notes that early detection can enable electrical isolation of affected cells, potentially stopping overheating before escalation.

NFPA 75 addresses lithium-ion battery fire risks in data centres

The rapid growth of AI and hyperscale data centres has increased reliance on lithium-ion Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPSs), bringing new fire risks into critical digital infrastructure.

Reflecting this, the 2024 edition of NFPA 75, covering fire protection of information technology equipment, introduced off-gas detection requirements for Li-ion UPS systems for the first time.

The standard specifies that approved systems must monitor for electrolyte vapour released prior to thermal runaway and be installed according to manufacturer instructions.

Importantly, NFPA 75 also clarifies that conventional flammable gas sensors are not suitable substitutes. At early off-gas stages, released vapours occur only in trace concentrations – often at ppm or ppb levels – far below thresholds designed for explosion prevention.This means specialised off-gas detection is necessary.

NFPA 76 strengthens Li-ion battery fire safety for telecom facilities

Similar revisions were made to NFPA 76, which governs telecommunications facilities.

The 2024 update requires approved systems to monitor electrolyte vapour release in battery installations above 20kWh where batteries are grouped within close proximity.

Upon detection, systems must automatically stop charging affected batteries and disconnect them from load.

Again, the standard reinforces that traditional flammable gas sensors are insufficient for thermal  runaway detection.

NFPA 400 ventilation requirements for Li-ion BESS fire safety

The NFPA 400 Hazardous Materials Code (2025) adds another important dimension, requiring exhaust ventilation systems to account for the density of potential vapours released from hazardous materials.

Off-gas detection systems can support compliance by automatically

triggering ventilation when electrolyte vapours are detected.

Li-ion BESS product certification evolves with fire safety standards

Alongside installation standards, product certification requirements are becoming more rigorous. The recently revised UL 2075 Gas and Vapor Detectors and Sensors standard introduces updated requirements covering detector design, construction and performance.

For off-gas detection manufacturers, this creates a clearer pathway for third-party validation of systems designed to detect lithium-ion electrolyte vapours, hydrogen and carbon monoxide.

How insurers are driving higher Li-ion BESS fire safety standards

Insurance providers have also emerged as influential drivers of BESS safety best practice.FM Global’s Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets 5-33, widely referenced by industrial operators and insurers, provide guidance for the design, operation and protection of stationary Li-ion BESSs.

The 2023 revision introduced new recommendations for thermal runaway prevention. Section 2.5.3.3 calls for early intervention systems capable of automatically and electrically isolating affected batteries when cell temperatures exceed thresholds and VOCs indicate pre-thermal[1]runaway venting.

The guidance requires FM approved VOC detectors which the new FM Approvals Standard 6540 fulfils with the establishment of dedicated testing and verification criteria for off-gas detectors certification.

This reflects growing insurer demand for independently verified detection performance in high-risk energy installations.

Why early off-gas detection is becoming central to BESS fire safety

Europe has also been active in formalising guidance around lithium-ion battery fire risks.The UK’s Fire Industry Association (FIA) was among the earliest organisations to formally endorse off-gas detection.

Its 2020 guidance on Li-ion battery fires concluded that systems capable of detecting low-concentration off-gases can provide early warning of impending thermal runaway and trigger shutdown systems to electrically isolate battery racks before escalation.

It also emphasises strategic sensor positioning to account for cooling airflow and the use of reference sensors to reduce false alarms.Meanwhile, the UK Fire Protection Association’s Need to Know Guide RE1 recommends early detection of off-gases or electrolyte vapours for critical and significant BESS installations, linked directly to shutdown and disconnection systems.

Together, these documents signal a broader European shift toward integrating early gas detection into battery fire protection strategies.

How local fire codes are strengthening Li-ion BESS safety requirements

Beyond standards bodies, regional building and fire codes are increasingly codifying these requirements. Among the earliest examples was the 2022 Connecticut State Fire Safety Code, which introduced provisions requiring systems capable of detecting electrolyte vapours at the start of battery venting, automatically shutting down affected BESS racks, transmitting fire alarm signals and activating mechanical ventilation.

Austin City Council’s 2024 Technical Building Codes, effective from July 2025, include similar requirements. For lithium-ion BESS installations above 20kWh, systems must include off-gas detection that both operates independently from the Battery

Management System (BMS) and identifies the affected rack. These provisions suggest local codes may act as regulatory accelerators, particularly in jurisdictions with fast-growing battery deployment.

New research supports off-gas detection for Li-ion BESS safety

Academic and industry research is also reinforcing the importance of early detection. A DNV study found that off-gas detection combined with automated shutdown protocols can prevent thermal runaway progression.

“Importantly, NFPA 75 also clarifies that conventional flammable gas sensors are not suitable substitutes.”

Separately, a 2024 study showed that commercial VOC sensors consistently triggered during cell venting events, even in large battery packs.

Research supported by UL Research Institutes and ESRI is also exploring improved off-gas monitoring in BESS applications, suggesting standards may become more prescriptive.

So, the stationary lithium-ion BESS sector is no longer operating in a regulatory vacuum Across North America and Europe, fire safety standards, insurer requirements and local building codes are converging around a common conclusion: early detection of electrolyte vapours is essential for mitigating thermal runaway risk.

For developers, operators and manufacturers, this means compliance is no longer simply about installing suppression systems or meeting baseline fire codes. It increasingly requires a proactive safety architecture built around prevention, early warning and automated intervention.

Supporting Li-ion BESS compliance through early off-gas detection

Honeywell’s Li-ion Tamer has emerged as one of the best-known systems designed specifically to address the early detection requirements now referenced across multiple standards and guidance documents.

Unlike conventional flammable gas detection, Li-ion Tamer is engineered to identify trace levels of electrolyte vapours released during the earliest stages of battery cell failure, before thermal runaway occurs.

This enables operators to respond earlier through shutdown, electrical isolation and ventilation strategies, helping reduce the risk of escalation. The system has been referenced throughout the industry’s regulatory evolution because it addresses a critical gap in traditional battery fire protection approaches: detecting battery distress before smoke, heat or explosive gas concentrations are present.

As BESS deployments expand into utilities, data centres, telecoms and commercial buildings, early intervention is becoming central to fire safety design. Solutions such as Li-ion Tamer can help operators and system integrators align installations with increasingly specific requirements around off-gas detection, rack-level monitoring and automated response protocols.

With regulatory scrutiny increasing, technologies that support earlier warning and actionable intervention are likely to play a growing role in helping the industry build safer, more resilient energy storage infrastructure

How AVD Fire is setting the global safety standard in lithium-ion battery fire suppression

by Breaking NewsFire SuppressionFire SuppressionFirefighting EquipmentIFSJ ExclusivesProductsWarehouse

As lithium-ion battery adoption accelerates, AVD Fire explains how certified lithium-ion battery fire suppression technologies are redefining fire safety, containment and thermal runaway mitigation

From electric vehicles and airport ground operations to logistics hubs and energy storage systems, lithium-ion batteries now underpin critical infrastructure. Yet with this growth comes a well-documented and escalating challenge: thermal runaway events that are difficult to suppress, highly volatile and prone to re-ignition.

For fire safety professionals, insurers and regulators, the question is no longer if lithium-ion battery incidents will occur – but how effectively they can be controlled, contained and mitigated.

This is where Aqueous Vermiculite Dispersion (AVD) has emerged as a globally recognised, field-proven solution – redefining expectations for lithium-ion fire suppression.

AVD is not simply an incremental improvement on conventional extinguishing agents – it represents a fundamental shift in how lithium-ion fires are managed.Unlike traditional methods that focus solely on cooling or oxygen displacement, AVD introduces a dual-action mechanism:

  • Rapid cooling to reduce thermal escalation
  • Formation of a vermiculite barrier layer, preventing oxygen reintroduction and suppressing re-ignition

This unique approach directly addresses the core challenge of lithium-ion fires: sustained chemical reactions within the battery cells.The result is controlled suppression, reduced fire spread and significantly improved post-incident stability – a critical factor for emergency responders and site operators alike.

Certified lithium-ion fire suppression performance and proven credibility

As global scrutiny intensifies around lithium-ion fire risks, independent testing and certification are no longer optional – they are essential.AVD Fire’s product portfolio has been developed and validated to meet the highest international standards, assuring both regulatory bodies and commercial stakeholders.

AVD extinguishers are supported by a comprehensive framework of certifications and third-party validations, including:

  • UL witness testing conducted at AVD Fire’s UK test facility
  • Emirates Safety Laboratory testing, demonstrating performance under controlled conditions
  • NTA 8133 certification for lithium-ion fire extinguishing capability
  • British Kitemark accreditation, reinforcing product quality and manufacturing standards

These credentials are not merely technical milestones – they represent market trust, regulatory confidence and operational reliability.

DIN-certified EV fire blankets for lithium-ion battery fire containment

While fire extinguishers are critical for early-stage intervention, large-scale lithium-ion incidents – particularly involving electric vehicles – require a different strategy: containment.

AVD Fire’s EV Fire Blankets are engineered to meet the rigorous DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 Standard for EV fire containment. Key performance attributes include:

  • Resistance to sustained temperatures exceeding 1000°C
  • Structural integrity in oxidising environments
  • Capability to contain flames, heat and hazardous off-gassing
  • Protection against debris and projectile risks during thermal runaway

For high-risk environments such as airports, tunnels, ports and logistics centres, these blankets provide a critical first-response containment solution, limiting damage and enabling safer incident management.

Fire Suppression Kits (FSKs) for lithium-ion battery incident response

Recognising that lithium-ion incidents often require multi-layered response strategies, AVD Fire has developed Fire Suppression Kits (FSKs) to complement its core product range.

These kits are designed to support assisted mitigation, equipping personnel with:

  • Specialist tools for safe handling and isolation
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Integrated AVD extinguishing solutions

In environments such as distribution centres, manufacturing facilities and transport hubs, FSKs provide a structured and repeatable response framework, reducing reliance on improvised or inconsistent procedures.

Global lithium-ion fire safety distribution with local expertise

AVD Fire’s international growth has been driven not only by product innovation, but also through the development of a trusted global distribution network.Today, AVD Fire solutions are supported by established distribution and service partners across:

  • Europe
  • Middle East
  • North America
  • Asia-Pacific
  • Caribbean

This network ensures customers benefit from local technical expertise, regulatory understanding, product availability and rapid response capability within their respective regions.

As lithium-ion battery adoption continues to accelerate globally, AVD Fire remains committed to supporting its existing distribution partners, while selectively expanding representation in strategic regions where opportunities and market coverage gaps exist.

The company is currently open to discussions with qualified partners in selected territories worldwide, including parts of:

  • Latin America
  • Africa
  • Southeast Asia
  • Selected regions within North America
  • EMEA

For distributors and fire safety specialists, this represents an opportunity to align with a globally recognised lithium-ion battery fire suppression specialist in a rapidly growing market.

Full-scale lithium-ion battery fire testing and validation

While certifications and laboratory testing provide essential validation, real-world performance remains the ultimate benchmark.

To further demonstrate the effectiveness of its solutions, AVD Fire recently conducted two full-scale live fire tests in North America, involving electric vehicles undergoing thermal runaway.

In these controlled tests:

  • Two Tesla vehicles were intentionally ignited to simulate thermal runaway conditions
  • AVD Fire deployed both its DIN-certified EV blanket and Premium fire blanket
  • The fires were successfully contained and ultimately extinguished

The outcomes demonstrated:

  • Effective containment of flames and heat
  • Significant reduction in fire spread risk
  • Controlled suppression without escalation
  • Enhanced safety for operators and surrounding infrastructure

These tests provide compelling evidence that AVD solutions are not only compliant and certified but also operationally effective in the most demanding real-world scenarios.

Leading the future of lithium-ion battery fire safety

As lithium-ion battery technology continues to reshape industries, the fire safety sector must evolve in parallel.

The transition requires:

  • New suppression technologies designed specifically for lithium-ion risks
  • Certified, standards-driven solutions that meet global regulatory expectations
  • Integrated response systems that combine suppression, containment and operational safety

AVD Fire is at the forefront of this transition – delivering solutions that are scientifically advanced, independently validated, and globally deployed.

Why the fire safety industry must act on lithium-ion battery risks

The challenge of lithium-ion battery fires is not theoretical – it is immediate, growing and

increasingly complex. For fire safety professionals, infrastructure operators and distributors, the priority is clear: Adopt solutions that are proven, certified and designed specifically for the risks at hand.

AVD Fire invites industry stakeholders to:

  • Explore its full range of lithium-ion fire protection solutions
  • Engage in collaborative testing and validation programmes
  • Partner in expanding global distribution and implementation

The future of fire safety demands more than adaptation – it demands leadership. AVD is setting that standard.

Wildfire safety warning issued as fire chiefs urge caution amid warm weather

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyIncidentsWildland FireWildland Fire

Fire chiefs have issued a wildfire safety warning ahead of expected warmer, drier conditions

Fire chiefs are urging the public to take extra care during the upcoming bank holiday, with forecasts indicating warm and dry weather that can increase the risk of wildfires and accidents around open water.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has renewed its appeal for vigilance as wildfire activity continues to rise. NFCC National Resilience data shows more than 270 wildfires have already been recorded in England and Wales. By November, fire and rescue services had responded to just over 1,000 wildfires in 2025, exceeding the 994 incidents recorded in 2022, previously the worst year on record.

Officials said many wildfires are preventable and are often caused by everyday behaviours such as disposable barbecues or carelessly discarded smoking materials.

Fire data from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) shows fire and rescue services in England responded to around 40,000 more incidents in the year ending December 2025 compared with the previous year, driven largely by a 29% rise in fires linked to outdoor incidents.

The NFCC is also warning of increased drowning risks during warmer weather, as more people spend time in and around water. Data from the Water Incident Database Water Incident Database, published by the National Water Safety Forum National Water Safety Forum, recorded 193 accidental drowning fatalities in the UK in 2024, with May seeing the highest monthly total at 28 deaths.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said, “With the risk of wildfires increasing as we go into the warmer months, we’re asking everyone to take a few simple precautions to help keep themselves, their communities and the environment safe this summer.

“Wildfires can start quickly and spread fast, but small actions make a big difference. Avoid using disposable barbecues in parks or open countryside, take care not to drop cigarettes or leave glass behind, and follow local fire safety advice. If you see signs of fire, call 999 immediately.

“Fire and rescue services are already dealing with a high number of incidents, and by working together we can help reduce the risk and ease that pressure. Taking care outdoors helps protect homes, wildlife and open spaces for everyone.

“We’re also encouraging people to stay safe around water. Cold water can be a shock, even on warm days. If you see someone in trouble, call 999, encourage them to float, and throw something that floats to help.”

Officials also highlighted prevention advice, including avoiding disposable barbecues in open countryside, not discarding cigarettes or glass, and following local restrictions. The public is also urged to report fire risks immediately and contact police or Crimestoppers if arson is suspected.

Water safety guidance includes the “Phone, Float, Throw” approach promoted by the Crimestoppers Crimestoppers supported safety messaging and the National Water Safety Forum. It advises calling 999, encouraging floating, and throwing flotation aids to anyone in difficulty.

The NFCC also reinforced “Float to Live” guidance, encouraging people who find themselves in trouble in water to tilt their head back, relax, control breathing, and float until help arrives.

Fire safety behaviour change central to UK built environment reform, says Fire Aware

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementConstructionConstructionHealth and SafetySafety

Fire safety behaviour change is central to efforts to improve standards across the UK built environment supply chain, Fire Aware has said in comments made this week to industry members and stakeholders.

Fire safety behaviour change is being positioned as a key requirement for delivering lasting cultural reform across the UK built environment supply chain, according to membership organisation Fire Aware.

The organisation said this week that its expanding membership base reflects growing recognition across construction, asset management and building operations that responsibility for fire safety extends across all levels of the sector.

The emphasis on behavioural reform comes amid ongoing changes following the Grenfell Inquiry, which has driven sustained scrutiny of safety culture across the industry.

The inquiry, led by Dame Judith Hackitt, has previously called for a shift towards ethical responsibility and cultural change, rather than reliance on regulatory compliance alone.

Regulatory oversight has also been strengthened through the creation of the Building Safety Regulator, which is tasked with improving competence and raising standards across the built environment.

Fire Aware chief executive Gavin Skelly said behavioural change across contractors, subcontractors, asset owners and managers remains essential to achieving consistent safety outcomes.

He said the challenge is not limited to compliance, but extends to attitudes and day-to-day decision-making across different professional disciplines.

“Changing behaviour can be difficult especially across different disciplines whether you are a contractor, sub contractor, asset owner or manager. However, it is the difference between meeting the cultural change that is needed or not,” he said.

Skelly added that exceeding minimum compliance standards is increasingly seen as both a safety expectation and a commercial differentiator in the post-Grenfell environment.

“Actions do speak louder than words. Adopting best practice above the minimum requirements of compliance can feel like an unnecessary step – yet it is a valuable USP for any business with a duty of care in the post Grenfell era,” he said.

Fire Aware said its members are joining to adopt its code of conduct and sector-specific charters designed to standardise expected behaviours across the supply chain.

The organisation said this is intended to create a more unified approach to competence, accountability and professional responsibility across the industry.

It also highlighted that fire risk is particularly acute in hospitality settings such as bars, restaurants and hotels, as well as healthcare environments where vulnerable occupants may require additional support during emergencies.

Fire Aware said its wider aim is to embed behavioural standards across the built environment by linking moral responsibility with professional practice and regulatory expectations.

Navy Shore Enterprise announces 2025 Fire and Emergency Services Award winners

by Aerial FirefightingAmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsAssociations and OrganisationsAviationBreaking NewsPeoplePorts & Maritime

Commander, Navy Installations Command has announced the Calendar Year 2025 Navy Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) Award winners, recognising fire and emergency personnel across the Navy Shore Enterprise for operational excellence and mission support.

The awards highlight teams and individuals responsible for emergency response across U.S. Navy installations worldwide, including structural fire suppression, aircraft rescue, hazardous materials containment and emergency medical response. According to the command, these capabilities are central to maintaining readiness across shore installations and supporting fleet operations.

By carrying out life-saving medical interventions and rapid emergency response operations, Navy F&ES teams help ensure that bases remain operational so that naval forces can train, deploy and conduct missions.

“Our personnel are the cornerstone of base resilience,” said CAPT Bill Lane, deputy director of CNIC operations. “Protecting our people and our tactical assets is essential for projecting power from the Shore Enterprise. These winners represent the best of the best in ensuring our mission remains uninterrupted.”

From this year’s recipients, three Navy representatives advanced to top honours in broader military competition at the Department of War (DoW) level: Naval Support Activity Annapolis; Katsuhiro Watanabe of Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka; and Metro San Diego, a regional fire and emergency services organisation covering Naval Base San Diego, Naval Base Coronado, Naval Base Point Loma, and Naval Air Station North Island.

The awards span multiple categories recognising performance across different installation sizes and specialties.

Navy Shore Enterprise awards in full

In the Small Fire Department of the Year category, Naval Support Activity Annapolis received the DoW-level award, with Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay named runner-up. For Medium Fire Department of the Year, Naval Station Mayport was selected as winner, followed by Joint Region Marianas.

Metro San Diego FES earned the Large Fire Department of the Year award, with Navy Region Northwest as runner-up. Joint Region Marianas was also recognised for Fire Prevention Program of the Year, alongside Navy Region Mid-Atlantic District 3, Naval Air Station Oceana, and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story as runners-up.

Individual awards highlighted firefighters, officers, instructors and emergency medical personnel across the fleet. ABH2(AW) Kiara Robin of Naval Station Rota was named Military Firefighter of the Year runner-up, while ABH2(AW/SW) Joshua Acuna of Metro San Diego was also recognised. Civilian Firefighter of the Year went to Katsuhiro Watanabe of Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka (DoW winner), with Ahmed Dakail of Naval Support Activity Bahrain named runner-up.

Other honours included ABH1(AW/SW) Leaundre Johnson of Naval Support Activity Naples as Military Fire Officer of the Year winner, and Eric Boggess of Naval Station Mayport as Civilian Fire Officer of the Year winner. Additional categories recognised training, inspection, EMS provision, and fire prevention leadership across multiple installations.

The Navy also recognised legacy contributors to the Fire and Emergency Services community through Hall of Fame inductions. Inductees included retired fire chiefs and senior leaders such as Ruben Perez, Edward Stillwell, David Inman, William Casey, Kenneth Snyder, and Jack Woodard (deceased), reflecting long-term service across multiple regions.

Lifetime Achievement Awards were also presented to senior leaders including Rodolfo Gonzales, William Killen, Christopher Connelly, and Daniel Gaumont, acknowledging decades of service within Navy fire and emergency operations.

Commander, Navy Installations Command oversees global Navy shore installation management, including infrastructure development, sustainment and quality of life programmes. The organisation manages 10 Navy regions and more than 70 installations, employing over 48,600 personnel focused on readiness, training and support for fleet operations.

According to the command, Navy installations function as operational platforms essential to supporting global naval missions and maintaining overall fleet readiness.

Greece launches world’s first national wildfire satellite system

by Breaking NewsEMSFeatured NewsFire SuppressionFirefighting EquipmentInspectionResearchThermal ImagingWildland FireWildland Fire

OroraTech has launched and deployment of the Hellenic Fire System, the world’s first national wildfire satellite system in Greece. The system is a four-satellite constellation dedicated to wildfire monitoring and represents the first national satellite network designed exclusively for wildfire detection and tracking. The satellites were launched aboard a SpaceX mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

The system was developed in collaboration with the Greek Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, the Hellenic Space Center, and the European Space Agency (ESA). It provides continuous, real-time wildfire intelligence covering 100% of Greek territory, enabling rapid detection and tracking of wildfire activity nationwide.

“Today marks a major step forward in strengthening Greece’s national resilience against wildfires,” said Dimitris Papastergiou, Minister of Digital Governance & Artificial Intelligence. “By integrating space-based capabilities into our emergency response systems, we are equipping our fire services with the tools they need to respond faster, act more effectively, and protect lives, property, and the environment.”

“The deployment of this system demonstrates how European collaboration can deliver tangible impact for citizens,” said Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at the European Space Agency. “By combining advanced space technologies with operational services on the ground, we are enabling faster, more informed responses to natural disasters and strengthening Europe’s leadership in Earth observation.”

“This is a defining moment not just for Greece, but also for how the world approaches wildfire management,” said Martin Langer, CEO of OroraTech. “For the first time, an entire country is protected by a dedicated satellite constellation built to detect and track wildfires in real time. This is the blueprint for how nations can use space technology to safeguard their people, ecosystems, and economies.”

Wildfire satellite system equipped with thermal infrared sensors

The Hellenic Fire System includes four satellites equipped with thermal infrared sensors, a ground station in Greece, and OroraTech’s Wildfire Solution platform integrated into national emergency response systems. Data is delivered through the Ministry of Digital Governance, enabling near real-time wildfire detection with latency measured in minutes and hotspot identification as small as 4 by 4 meters.

In 2025, Europe experienced its most severe wildfire activity in over 20 years, with significant impact in Greece and across the Mediterranean region due to rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions. The new system is designed to address gaps in traditional monitoring by providing continuous coverage and rapid detection during peak fire conditions.

The project is being implemented under an ESA Contract within the framework of the Greek National Satellite Space Project. The Project: Small-Satellites (Measure ID 16855) is implemented by the Hellenic Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence with the European Space Agency (ESA) Assistance in the Management and Implementation. It is part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan ‘Greece 2.0’, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), a core programme of the European Union-NextGenerationEU.

From fibre to fire protection: The role of Aksa Akrilik in technical textiles

by Featured NewsIndustrialPPE

Bahadir Kaya, FR Product Solutions Manager, Aksa Akrilik, shares how innovation in fiber design and solution dyeing is shaping the future of technical and protective textiles

How do Aksa’s R&D capabilities support the development of advanced technical fibers such as the Armora modacrylic brand?

At Aksa, we don’t just manufacture fibers; we engineer solutions that protect lives.

The development of our Armora modacrylic brand isn’t a coincidence, it’s the result of a sophisticated R&D ecosystem designed to push the boundaries of inherent flame retardancy.

Our journey is built on 55 years of deep-rooted fiber production experience, which provides the stable foundation required to advance polymers.

We are leveraging decades of data to refine the safety and comfort of technical textiles.

Innovation requires more than just ideas; it requires the infrastructure to test them.

Our R&D commitment is reflected in our dedicated team and facilities.

We have a specialised task force, around 40 expert researchers and engineers dedicated solely to the next generation of fibers.

In addition, we operate in 4 specialised R&D laboratories that focus entirely on research, development and rigorous testing.

This allows us to move from a concept to a high-performance prototype with unmatched speed and precision.

We believe the best products aren’t made in isolation.

We work in close partnership with customers across the globe, co-developing tailored solutions that meet the specific safety demands of different regions and industries.

This market-oriented approach doesn’t just result in products; it results in intellectual property.

By consistently filing patent applications for our innovative projects, we don’t just follow market trends; we set them.

When you choose Armora, you choose a product born from a culture of leadership and a continuous drive for “what’s next” in technical safety.

What differentiates Armora from conventional modacrylic fibers?

Armora’s distinction from conventional modacrylic fibers lies in its fusion of molecular-level safety with groundbreaking manufacturing efficiency, moving far beyond basic flame retardancy to offer a high-performance, sustainable textile solution.

At the heart of this innovation is our advanced solution dyeing technology, which integrates pigments directly into the fiber during production to ensure superior colour fastness that remains vibrant even after 100 industrial washes.

This “dop dyed” approach is not only a performance advantage but a significant environmental milestone, reducing water consumption by 70% and steam usage by 15% compared to traditional batch dyeing methods.

Our portfolio continues to lead with specialised innovations such as New Generation Modacrylic Fibers, which provides a cost-effective modacrylic solution through optimised low-antimony content and our upcoming New FR fiber.

This new advancement is specifically engineered for next-to-skin applications, offering a toxic-gas-free, antimony-free and skin-friendly profile that prioritises wearer comfort without compromising on safety.

Because Armora is inherently flame-resistant at a molecular level, it acts as a critical safety anchor in blends, allowing it to provide full FR performance even when combined with non-FR cellulosic fibers.

This versatility is backed by the Oeko-Tex Class 1 certification across the entire Armora range, ensuring that our products meet the highest global standards for human ecology.

Armora HiVis dyed fiber options strictly adhere to ISO 20471 and ANSI 107 standards, serving the growing high-visibility market with a solution that is as durable as it is protective, proving that true innovation in technical fibers must balance high-stakes safety with a steadfast dedication to environmental stewardship.

How is Armora currently being applied in protective clothing and technical textile markets, and what makes these applications distinctive?

Armora’s strategic deployment across global protective clothing and technical textile markets is defined by its ability to provide uncompromised safety where the margin for error is zero.

As our most advanced modacrylic fiber, it serves industrial professionals who require exceptional resistance against flash fires and harsh chemicals without sacrificing ergonomic comfort.

The distinctiveness of Armora lies in its molecular versatility; its self-extinguishing structure allows for innovative fabric blends – even with non-FR fibers – maintaining total thermal integrity while offering a clear cost advantage through optimised longevity.

In the petrochemical and oil and gas sectors, our solution dyed technology ensures garments retain protective properties and high-visibility colors through years of rigorous daily wear.

Armora is also a preferred choice for power distribution companies due to its electric arc flash protection and processing for both knitting and weaving.

Beyond heavy industry, its unique performance profile extends into high-end plush blankets, footwear and the nonwoven sector as a high-efficiency heat barrier, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to safeguarding life in every environment.

How does Armora’s technical properties translate into improved protection or performance for end users?

The shifting dynamics in the oil and gas sector provide a clear example of how Armora’s technical properties translate into tangible benefits.

While aramid-heavy blends have dominated this field, Armora modacrylic blends are redefining the standard by offering a 20–30% cost advantage without compromising safety.

This shift is driven by Armora’s ability to be blended with cellulosic fibers, providing a superior comfort solution for personnel working long shifts in demanding environments.

Despite this increased focus on comfort and cost efficiency, the level of protection remains uncompromised, offering excellent flame retardancy alongside exceptional color fastness.

Even under harsh industrial conditions involving intense UV exposure, our solution dyed fibers ensure that garments retain their original appearance and high-visibility performance throughout their entire service life.

By balancing these rigorous safety requirements with a persistent focus on user-centric design, Armora delivers a more wearable, affordable and durable protective solution for today’s industrial workforce.

What excites you about how Armora is being used in protective clothing today?

The most rewarding aspect is our ability to transform high-stakes safety into a seamless part of a professional’s daily life.

In critical sectors, workers face the constant life-threatening risk of arc flash incidents.

Historically, protection often came at the expense of wearer comfort, but Armora is changing that by positioning itself at the forefront of innovative arc protection.

It is rewarding to see how our unique solution dyed technology integrates high-level arc flash defense directly into the fiber’s DNA, ensuring that safety is never compromised by wear or washing.

By enhancing the comfort profile, we are not just providing a shield against thermal hazards; we are offering an unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for those working in high-risk environments, making their demanding shifts safer and more manageable.

What new applications or developments for Armora do you see shaping the future of technical textiles?

The future will be defined by the seamless integration of high-performance safety and environmental responsibility.

We are intensifying our efforts to deliver sustainable innovations, most notably through our New Generation Armora products.

By reducing antimony content, traditionally used as a synergistic additive, we have received exceptional feedback from the market.

This advancement allows us to offer a higher Limiting Oxygen Index while providing an eco-friendlier fiber.

We are also expanding our portfolio with the introduction of New FR, an acrylic-based fiber currently undergoing successful client trials.

This delivers a comprehensive package of benefits, including enhanced sustainability, odor control, antimicrobial properties and superior moisture management, all while leveraging our solution dyed technology.

When compared to Meta-Aramid or FR viscose blends, it demonstrates superior thermal insulation and higher water vapor resistance.

These make it an unrivaled choice for next-to-skin applications, where the demand for a superior comfort solution is as critical as the need for thermal defense.

By combining these diverse functionalities into a single fiber, we continue to demonstrate a strong adherence in shaping a safer and more sustainable future for the industry.

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

Desu Systems to showcase industrial safety portfolio at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

by EventsFeatured NewsIndustrial

Desu Systems confirms attendance at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

Desu Systems will attend the INTERSCHUTZ 2026 exhibition in Hannover from 1 to 6 June to present its broad portfolio of safety technologies.

The company announced it will be located at Hall 12, Stand D07, with a full team presence representing its various technical divisions.

Exhibits will focus on methane emission monitoring, flame and gas detection, and kitchen fire protection.

This presence at the exhibition reflects a growing demand for performance-led safety systems that respond to tighter regulatory expectations and operational risks.

Operators in petrochemical processing, hydrogen production, wind energy and waste handling face increasing pressure to improve safety performance.

Desu Systems also identifies aircraft hangars, tank storage, offshore infrastructure and commercial kitchens as sectors requiring updated technical and compliance solutions.

Emile Hippe, Managing Director of Desu Systems said: “Across industry, the conversation around safety is becoming more urgent and more practical at the same time.

“Companies are under pressure to improve detection performance, strengthen resilience, and respond to changing regulatory demands.

“Our role is to help them find technologies that are not only advanced, but also relevant to the realities they face in the field.”

Technical solutions for hazardous and industrial environments

Featured technologies at the stand will include optical gas imaging systems used for methane leak detection, quantification and monitoring.

The company will showcase the Spectrex 20/20Q flame detector alongside detection technologies based on QuadSense innovation.

These systems are designed to support faster response and reliability in demanding industrial conditions.

The exhibitor listing also includes the Sensia thermal imaging camera and the Buckeye Kitchen Mister suppression system.

Ronald Verkroost, Founder and CEO of Desu Systems said: “Industrial safety decisions carry greater consequences than ever when systems fall short.

“That is why detection and suppression technologies need to be chosen with a clear view of the risk, the environment, and the operational reality.

“At INTERSCHUTZ, we want to show solutions that answer those demands in a serious and practical way.”

Verkroost and Hippe will be available for press interviews throughout the duration of the event.

Survitec receives DNV qualification for Seahaven evacuation system

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSearch and Rescue

Survitec Seahaven gains DNV statement

Survitec has received a formal Technology Qualification Statement from DNV for Seahaven, its Advanced Evacuation System, covering a configuration designed to evacuate up to 1,060 passengers.

Survitec announced that the Seahaven configuration uses two self-propelled inflatable survival craft and four vertical escape helical slides to enable embarkation from the vessel.

DNV carried out the Technology Qualification process in line with DNV Recommended Practice DNV RP A203.

The assessment confirmed that Seahaven had been qualified to operate within defined limits and perform reliably under emergency conditions.

Jonny Whiteside, Chief Operating Officer at Survitec, said: “This Technology Qualification from DNV marks a significant milestone, demonstrating the system’s proven reliability through rigorous testing and independent evaluation.

“It reinforces an already well-established foundation of validation, complementing assessments conducted by Lloyd’s Register, RINA, and Bureau Veritas, and positioning Seahaven as a smarter and safer evacuation solution.”

Whiteside added: “We are advancing strategic discussions with leading operators to install Seahaven across cruise fleets, reflecting strong market interest and a shared commitment to elevating safety standards at sea.”

DNV sets out the technical assessment

DNV said the Technology Qualification work forms a basis for the Alternative Design and Arrangement (AD&A) process for application in passenger vessels.

Dr. Daniel Povel, Senior Principal Specialist Passenger Ship Safety and Risk Assessment at DNV Maritime Advisory stated: “We are pleased to support Survitec in advancing this innovative technology towards application in passenger vessels.

“Through DNV’s Technology Qualification process, the Seahaven system has been independently assessed against defined performance requirements and acceptance criteria.

“The work undertaken in the TQ forms a valuable basis for the Alternative Design and Arrangement (AD&A) process.”

DNV reviewed a technical test and verification programme covering full-scale deployment trials and slide integrity evaluations.

The programme also covered embarkation simulations at maximum capacity, propulsion performance assessments and manoeuvrability trials under representative operating conditions.

The assessment examined structural endurance, redundancy of critical components and resilience under load to confirm sailing-away functionality after evacuation.

DNV also reviewed repeated deployment testing to assess on-demand operational reliability, with the source material stating that existing SOLAS and LSA frameworks do not contain prescriptive reliability requirements for alternative systems of this type.

Survitec said Seahaven is designed as a direct alternative to conventional lifeboats, using propelled inflatable survival units and combining functions usually associated with lifeboats and Marine Evacuation Systems.

With the Technology Qualification completed, the company said it is positioned to move into the AD&A process for newbuild and retrofit passenger vessels.