Hochiki Europe launches FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementEvacuationHospitalityLightingLightingPublic Events

FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting has been introduced by Hochiki Europe to provide a discreet emergency lighting solution for theatres, cinemas, nightclubs and other design-conscious venues

Hochiki Europe has expanded its emergency lighting portfolio with the launch of the FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting range, offering a discreet solution for entertainment venues where maintaining the visual atmosphere is a priority.

The new FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting has been developed for theatres, cinemas, nightclubs and similar venues where traditional white emergency lighting can stand out in darkened spaces. Its black finish is designed to blend into contemporary interiors while delivering the same performance as the standard FIREscape Nepto range.

The addressable system is built around a control panel connected to self-contained LED luminaires and exit signs using screened, extra-low voltage cabling. Each luminaire features an intelligent back-up battery capable of providing the required three hours of emergency operation in the event of a power failure.

According to Hochiki Europe, the low-voltage design and continuous self-testing and monitoring capabilities help simplify installation and maintenance while reducing associated costs compared with central battery or mains-powered emergency lighting systems.

The luminaire batteries have an expected lifespan of 10 years, helping to minimise replacement and maintenance requirements over the lifetime of the installation. The luminaires are certified to BS EN 60598-2-22 and BS EN 62034 Type PERC, while exit signs comply with BS EN ISO 7010. The complete system also meets the requirements of BS 5266.

The FIREscape Nepto range is designed to be scalable, with each control panel supporting up to two lighting lines and 127 devices per line. Up to 12 panels can also be networked together and controlled from a single keypad, making the system suitable for both single-site installations and larger estates.

The system includes adjustable lighting levels, day and night operating modes and the ability to configure luminaires as maintained or non-maintained, allowing users to tailor operation outside emergency situations.

While aimed at entertainment venues, Hochiki Europe said the Black Edition is also suitable for other environments where aesthetics are important, including premium retail spaces, gyms and modern office developments.

The FIREscape Nepto Black Edition is available now from Hochiki Europe.

Olympia Electronics launches new emergency exit signs

by LightingProducts

Olympia Electronics has revealed the launch of its new MLD PRO Series, a modern emergency exit sign solution.

According to the company, the signs have been designed to meet the demands of contemporary architectural projects.

The new sign has a slim profile, premium aesthetics and advanced LED technology.

The company added that the MLD PRO combines high visibility, reliability and effortless installation in a single product.

MLD PRO Series

The company explained that the MLD PRO Series has been designed with a number of notable features, including:

Minimal and contemporary design, a sleek and elegant appearance that integrates seamlessly into hotels, offices, retail spaces, commercial buildings and public facilities.

Maintained or non-maintained flexible operation modes to satisfy different project requirements.

Three hour emergency autonomy equipped with advanced LiFePO4 battery technology, ensuring dependable operation during power failures.

High-efficiency LED illumination uniform pictogram lighting with low energy consumption and extended LED lifetime.

Easy installation suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting, enabling quick and straightforward installation.

Fast pictogram replacement tool-free pictogram replacement saves valuable maintenance time.

Specifications

According to the company, the key specifications include:

  • Viewing distance: 20 meters
  • Protection rating: IP20
  • Emergency duration: 180 minutes
  • Battery technology: LiFePO4
  • Operation: Maintained or non-maintained
  • Mounting options: Wall or ceiling
  • Integrated TEST Button

Ideal Applications

According to Olympia Electronics, the ideal application for the MLD PRO Series include:

  • Hotels & hospitality
  • Office buildings
  • Shopping centres
  • Educational facilities
  • Healthcare buildings
  • Public infrastructure
  • Modern commercial spaces

Designed for modern spaces

The company highlighted that the MLD PRO Series delivers the perfect balance between aesthetics and safety.

Combining contemporary design, reliable emergency operation and easy maintenance, it is the ideal choice for architects, consultants, contractors and facility managers looking for a premium emergency exit sign solution, added Olympia Electronics.

Streamlight introduces the Dualie Rechargeable ATEX

by LightingLightingProducts

Streamlight has announced the launch of the Dualie Rechargeable ATEX.

The company said that the new release is an intrinsically safe firefighting light approved for use in ATEX-certified Zone zero hazardous locations.

It combines high-performance illumination, dual beams and rugged durability in a lightweight design.

“An ideal lighting solution”

Michael F Dineen, President of Streamlight commented: “Firefighters, industrial and other professionals rely on their flashlights to perform under frequently trying conditions.

“The Dualie Rechargeable ATEX provides that assurance when working at scenes where potentially dangerous substances may be present.

“It’s an ideal lighting solution for industrial, fire, oil and gas and confined space applications,” he concluded.

Features

The company said that the new light features a forward-facing spot beam and a side-facing flood light that can be used independently or simultaneously to improve task visibility, situational awareness and user safety.

An integrated belt clip with dual built-in magnets for grabbing onto steel surfaces also permits hands-free operation, added Streamlight.

The new product features opposing switches for easy, one-handed operation even with gloved hands.

Streamlight explained that it is built with a durable, non-conductive, corrosion-proof polymer body, it features a textured grip for secure handling and is powered by a 3300mAh lithium ion rechargeable battery.

An adjustable multi-adapter is also available to securely attach the light to select fire and industrial helmets.

The light features three modes:

  • Spot – delivering 230 lumens, 15,000 candela over 245 metres and a 10-hour run time
  • Flood – producing 110 lumens, 70 candela, a 17-metre beam distance and 20 hours of run time
  • Combined Flood & Spot – When used together, the two intersecting beams offer 325 lumens and seven hours of run time

Measurements

Measuring 19.05 cm in length, the light weighs 201 grams.

The company highlighted that the unbreakable polycarbonate face cap and side lens with scratch-resistant coating measures 4.72 cm.

It is IP67 rated, dust-tight and water-proof to 1 metre for 30 minutes.

The light also is impact-resistant tested to 2 metres.

How fireground lighting solutions are supporting safer fire and rescue operations

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentLightingLightingProductsSearch and Rescue

Ahead of INTERSCHUTZ 2026, Streamlight® introduces new fireground lighting solutions and safety-rated products designed to improve visibility, coordination and operational safety across modern fire and rescue environments

Across fire and rescue operations, effective lighting supports visibility, safety and control in some of the most demanding working environments. It is a critical part of operational safety, situational awareness and effective decision-making.

From hazardous atmospheres and smoke-filled interiors to large incident scenes, responders require lighting tools that are matched to the task, the risk and the environment.

Streamlight® will be showcasing its latest fire industry product launches and wider professional lighting offerings at INTERSCHUTZ 2026, taking place from 1 to 6 June 2026 in Hannover, Germany.

Visitors will be able to see the Streamlight® products on Stand H37, Hall 27, including a broad selection of safety-rated and general fireground lighting solutions.

New fireground lighting solutions from Streamlight®

Streamlight® recently expanded its professional fire and emergency response offerings with two new products announced at FDIC International. The Portable Scene Light III and LiteBox® 1Million® add further capability to the company’s portfolio, supporting both wide-area scene illumination and long-range search applications.

The Portable Scene Light III builds on the capabilities of the Portable Scene Light and Portable Scene Light II, which came before it. It is a rugged, waterproof, high-lumen portable lighting solution designed for demanding emergency scenes, job sites and first responder applications.

Featuring twelve powerful LEDs with wide-pattern reflectors, it delivers a uniform beam for maximum coverage, helping crews illuminate large working areas quickly and effectively.

With three adjustable brightness levels, the Portable Scene Light III can be adapted to suit the operational requirements. On High, it delivers 10,000 lumens, 121,000 candela and a 696 metre beam distance, with a run time of two hours.

Medium provides 5,000 lumens, 61,100 candela and a 494 metre beam distance, running for four hours, while Low offers 2,500 lumens, 38,000 candela and a 390 metre beam distance, with an eight hour run time.

Designed for flexibility in the field, the Portable Scene Light III supports multiple power options, including a swappable Streamlight® SL-P6™ Lithium-Ion battery pack, dedicated charger, AC power supply or DC power source. Its light head offers 360° rotation and 180° pivoting, giving crews a full range of motion to direct illumination exactly where it is needed.

The included wireless remote controls all functions from up to 75 feet away and can be paired with multiple lights for simultaneous use. The modular design allows the light head to be used with or without the heavy-duty tripod, supporting both elevated scene lighting and more flexible close-range deployment.

With rugged construction, IPX7 waterproof rating with the battery installed, reversible spiked tripod feet and an integrated carry handle, the Portable Scene Light III is built for all-weather use across demanding emergency environments.

For long-range search and scene lighting, the LiteBox® 1Million® provides a powerful new option within the Streamlight® line-up. It is a rugged, heavy-duty, rechargeable and fully portable high-intensity search light/scene light engineered for demanding professional use.

Delivering 1.25 million candlepower, it emits a focused beam capable of illuminating objects up to 1.39 miles away, while also providing peripheral light for broader visibility.

The LiteBox® 1Million® offers High and Low modes. On High, it delivers 3,300 lumens, 1,250,000 candela and a 2,236 metre beam distance, with a run time of 4.5 hours. On Low, it provides 525 lumens, 200,000 candela and an 894 metre beam distance, with a run time of 22.5 hours.

Its articulating light head pivots 135° and rotates 270°, allowing users to position the beam for long[1]range identification, scanning and scene support.

For fire and rescue teams, the LiteBox® 1Million® is particularly valuable in outdoor searches, perimeter assessment, waterway operations, large incident grounds and other situations where long-distance visibility is essential.

Its rechargeable lithium-ion power system, integrated battery status indicator, heavy-duty shoulder strap and IPX4 water-resistant design make it a practical tool for demanding professional use.

Together, these products are impressive new additions to an already strong selection of fire lighting solutions offered by Streamlight®.

Why safety-rated fireground lighting matters

Alongside these new additions, Streamlight® offers a comprehensive selection of fire lighting tools designed for hazardous environments. In areas where flammable gases, vapours or dust may be present, safety-rated lighting is essential. Streamlight® ATEX and HAZ-LO® products are designed for defined hazardous location use, helping fire and rescue professionals select equipment suited to the risks they face.

For turnout gear and right-angle lighting, the Survivor® X ATEX and Survivor® Pivot ATEX are core firefighter lights designed to clip directly to gear, providing hands[1]free illumination in smoke-filled or confined environments.

The Survivor® X ATEX is Zone 0 and Zone 20 rated, while the Survivor® Pivot ATEX provides a versatile right-angle light with a pivoting head, allowing users to direct light where needed during operations. Both are available as Alkaline or Rechargeable systems.

For hazardous location scene lighting and lantern use, the Vulcan® 180 HAZ-LO® ATEX and Vulcan® LED ATEX provide portable, rechargeable lighting options. The Vulcan® 180 HAZ-LO® ATEX features an articulating head that allows the beam to be aimed where required, while the flat base allows the light to stand on its own for scene lighting.

The Vulcan® LED ATEX offers a lightweight lantern option with a tight beam suited to firefighting applications.

Compact handheld and inspection lighting also plays an important role in hazardous environments. The Dualie® 3AA ATEX provides both forward-facing and downward-facing beams, with Spot, Flood, and Spot and Flood modes for inspection and area lighting.

The 2AA ProPolymer® HAZ-LO® ATEX flashlight adds a lightweight, waterproof, intrinsically safe option for inspections, equipment checks and general navigation in hazardous locations.

For hands-free use, the Enduro® Pro HAZ-LO® ATEX headlamp supports firefighters during technical work, rescue operations and equipment handling. With spot/flood combo, spot and flood modes, it allows users to maintain visibility while keeping both hands free.

Fireground lighting tools for search, rescue and incident response

Not every fireground task takes place in a hazardous atmosphere, and Streamlight® also offers a broad selection of non-safety rated lighting tools for general firefighting, rescue and outdoor operations.

The Portable Scene Light and Portable Scene Light II, predecessors to the new Portable Scene Light III, support rapid deployment at incident scenes, helping crews illuminate wide working areas, staging zones, road traffic collisions and outdoor operations. Portable scene lighting is essential for reducing trip hazards, improving coordination and establishing safe work areas during extended incidents.

For long-range search and assessment, the Waypoint® 400 offers powerful directional lighting. Its portability and long run time make it well suited to searching, scanning and identifying hazards at distance, particularly during night operations or low-light outdoor incidents.

Helmet-mounted and hands-free lighting also remains important during close-range tasks. The Vantage® provides compact, helmet-mounted illumination for firefighting and  industrial use, delivering a focused beam designed to cut through smoke and haze while supporting visibility and awareness in demanding, low-light environments.

Together, these products demonstrate how fireground lighting is not about relying on one device, but about building a layered

approach. Scene lights provide wide-area visibility, lanterns and right-angle lights support movement and task work, headlamps and helmet lights keep hands free, and handheld spotlights provide reach for search and assessment.

Visit Streamlight® at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

INTERSCHUTZ will provide an opportunity for professionals to see the latest technologies, equipment and solutions shaping the future of emergency response.

Streamlight® will be exhibiting at Stand H37, Hall 27, where visitors will be able to explore the company’s latest product launches, including the Portable Scene Light III and LiteBox® 1Million®, alongside its wider fire lighting offering. The stand will provide visitors the opportunity to see how Streamlight® products support real-world fire and rescue operations. Visitors can also expect added activity on the stand, including a social media competition to win a Streamlight® product. For fire and rescue professionals attending, the show provides the ideal opportunity to meet the team, see the latest products and explore lighting solutions designed for the demands of modern emergency

Lighting the way in search and rescue operations: Streamlight outlines why beam control matters

by Breaking NewsLightingSearch and Rescue

Streamlight sets out why lighting is operationally critical, clarifies lumen and candela performance, compares equipment types and highlights the need for responder familiarity

Search and rescue operations are among the most challenging tasks faced by firefighters and emergency responders.

Whether operating in remote wilderness, collapsed structures, flood zones or urban environments after dark, the ability to see clearly and accurately is fundamental to success.

Lighting plays a critical role not only in locating casualties, but also in ensuring responder safety, maintaining situational awareness and enabling coordinated decision-making under pressure.

Modern search and rescue lighting has evolved far beyond basic illumination, offering specialised beam patterns, increased output and robust designs tailored to demanding operational environments.

Search and rescue missions frequently take place in conditions where natural light is limited or entirely absent.

Darkness, smoke, adverse weather and structural damage all combine to restrict visibility and increase operational risk.

Effective lighting allows responders to rapidly assess scenes, identify hazards, detect movement and confirm the presence of casualties.

Without appropriate illumination, even highly trained personnel can struggle to interpret terrain, depth or structural stability, increasing the likelihood of delays or injury.

Lighting also plays an important role in team coordination, enabling responders to signal positions, guide movement and maintain visual contact across complex or changing environments.

In many situations, well-chosen lighting can significantly reduce search times, which is critical when survivability is time dependent.

Understanding lumens, candela and beam patterns

Lumens, candela and beam pattern each influence how light behaves in real-world conditions and understanding how these factors work together is essential for effective deployment in search and rescue operations.

Lumens refer to the total amount of visible light emitted by a source.

In search and rescue environments, higher lumen output enables responders to illuminate larger areas and penetrate darkness more effectively.

High-lumen lights are particularly valuable during initial searches, wide-area sweeps and scene assessments, where broad visibility is required to quickly identify hazards, terrain changes or signs of life.

However, lumen output alone does not determine usefulness, as excessive brightness without proper control can lead to glare, reduced contrast and eye fatigue, particularly in close-range or smoke-filled environments.

Candela measures the intensity of light focused in a specific direction and is closely linked to beam distance.

A higher candela rating indicates a tighter, more intense beam capable of projecting usable light over longer distances.

In outdoor search and rescue operations, candela is especially important for scanning treelines, open fields, waterways or elevated ground, where potential casualties may be located far from the search team’s position.

Strong candela output allows responders to identify reflective materials, movement or contrasting shapes at range without needing to physically cover every area on foot.

Beam pattern defines how light is distributed between the central hotspot and surrounding spill.

Flood beams provide wide, even illumination across a broad field of view and are well suited to interior searches, confined spaces and close-range work where peripheral awareness is essential.

Spot beams concentrate light into a narrower pattern, delivering greater reach and intensity for long-range searching and identification.

Many modern search and rescue lights combine these characteristics, offering a balanced beam that supports both distance work and situational awareness.

Selecting an appropriate beam pattern for the environment is often just as important as output figures when it comes to operational effectiveness.

Streamlight lighting solutions in search and rescue

Different stages of a search and rescue operation place different demands on lighting equipment.

During initial searches, responders benefit from powerful, wide illumination that allows them to quickly assess terrain, structures or debris fields.

As operations progress and points of interest are identified, more focused beams become valuable for confirmation and navigation.

Interior searches require controlled light that reduces harsh shadows while still providing enough brightness to reveal hazards such as unstable flooring, sharp debris or restricted access points.

The most effective lighting strategies involve adapting output, intensity and beam shape to the environment, rather than relying on a single lighting solution for all tasks.

Streamlight has long been recognised for producing lighting tools designed specifically for emergency service professionals and its product range demonstrates how different lighting characteristics can be applied effectively across a variety of search and rescue scenarios.

For scene lighting and extended operations, portable area lights such as the Portable Scene Light and Portable Scene Light II provide broad, even illumination across large working areas, supporting command posts, casualty treatment zones and staging areas.

Their elevated light heads help reduce shadows and improve overall visibility, while rechargeable power systems and adjustable output levels support sustained use during prolonged incidents.

In hazardous or ATEX-regulated environments, the Vulcan® 180 HAZ-LO® ATEX offers reliable scene illumination while meeting stringent safety requirements, with a wide beam pattern and articulating head that allow light to be directed precisely where it is needed.

Hands free options for interiors

Hands-free lighting is essential during interior and close-quarters search operations, where responders must keep both hands free for tools, patient handling or navigation.

The Survivor® X ATEX is designed specifically for emergency service use, offering a durable, rechargeable platform with multiple lighting modes to support task-focused work and movement through complex environments.

The SL-SideSaddle® complements this by providing compact, hard hat or helmet-mounted illumination for close-range tasks, ensuring consistent visibility without adding unnecessary bulk or restricting mobility.

High-output handheld lights remain critical for scanning, identification and long-range assessment.

The Dualie® 3AA ATEX offers dual-light functionality, combining forward-facing and downward-facing illumination to improve situational awareness, while remaining suitable for hazardous locations.

For longer-distance searching, the ProTac® 2.0 HP and ProTac® HP-X deliver powerful, tightly focused beams with strong candela performance, allowing responders to identify reflective materials and points of interest at range.

Durable construction, multiple operating modes and rechargeable power options ensure dependable performance during demanding search and rescue operations.

Effective search and rescue lighting is rarely about relying on a single device.

Instead, it involves deploying a combination of lighting tools that complement one another across different operational phases.

High-output handheld lights support long-range scanning and rapid assessment, helmet-mounted lights provide close-range task illumination and scene lights ensure sustained visibility across larger working areas.

When used together, these tools allow responders to transition smoothly between wide area searching, focused investigation and hands-on rescue tasks without compromising safety or efficiency.

Lighting as a critical operational tool

Lighting remains one of the most critical yet underestimated components of search and rescue operations.

It is not simply about brightness, but about understanding how lumens, candela and beam patterns interact with real-world environments.

When the right lighting tools are matched to the right scenarios, responders can search faster, operate more safely and make better decisions under pressure.

Streamlight’s range of professional lighting solutions demonstrates how purpose-built design supports the demanding realities of search and rescue, helping firefighters and emergency responders perform at their best when it matters most.

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

Petrel supplies hazardous-area lighting for L’Oréal Auckland dangerous goods facility

by Featured NewsLightingProjects

Petrel case study on L’Oréal’s Auckland dangerous goods store

Auckland’s new L’Oréal distribution centre includes a Dangerous Goods Store designed for a Zone 2 hazardous environment and completed in November 2025.

Petrel has published a case study outlining the lighting solution delivered for the facility through Electrical Consulting Services working with Techlight.

The project team included developer James Kirkpatrick Group and architect Gravitas Consulting.

Waide Commercial Construction served as the builder and Electrical Consulting Services acted as electrical and lighting consultant.

Electrical Consulting Services selected Petrel to provide the hazardous-area lighting for the Zone 2 environment.

Zone 2 lighting and emergency provision

The Dangerous Goods Store is classified as Zone 2, defined as an environment where explosive gas atmospheres are not expected during normal operation and, if present, exist only for a short period.

A total of 73 Petrel ALED4/G/Z2/156E luminaires were installed as high-bay fittings to illuminate aisles and open warehouse areas.

These luminaires are designed for hazardous locations and provide ingress protection and compliance for Zone 2 applications.

Emergency lighting within the facility includes 12 Petrel 9LED5700/EM units installed across aisles and open areas.

Stuart Head, Technical and Certification Manager at Petrel, said: “Lighting is central to Green Star performance, influencing energy use, operational carbon and overall environmental quality.

“By combining high-performance LEDs with precise optical control, the L’Oréal Dangerous Goods Store achieves lower emissions, reduced energy demand and safer working conditions.

“Petrel is proud to have supported the delivery of this award-winning outcome.”

Green Star rating and project collaboration

The distribution centre has achieved New Zealand’s first 6-Star Green Star Design Certified rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council.

The rating recognises the facility’s sustainable design approach across the wider project.

The lighting design formed part of the overall facility specification, with coordination between the project team and delivery partners during development.

Pierre Abrahamse, National Sales Manager at Techlight, said: “The L’Oréal Dangerous Goods Store project sets a new benchmark, demonstrating how specialist lighting capability can drive both operational excellence and environmental leadership.

“Credit goes to the team at Petrel for their skill, commitment and genuine passion for the sector.”

The Auckland facility brings together hazardous-area lighting and energy-focused building design within the same distribution centre.

Hazardous area lighting maker Petrel reaches West Midlands investment shortlist

by Featured NewsLighting

Lighting specialist Petrel shortlisted for investment award

Petrel, a Birmingham-based specialist in hazardous area lighting, has been shortlisted in the Investment category at the West Midlands Business of the Year Awards 2026, with winners due to be announced on 26 February 2026.

Petrel said it has been shortlisted to a final group of three after a judging process.

The black-tie awards ceremony will take place on 26 February 2026 in the West Midlands.

Petrel was founded in the 1930s and has operated under the Petrel brand since 1984.

The company manufactures ATEX, UKCA and IECEx-certified lighting solutions for hazardous and industrial environments.

Petrel operates from a 3,650 sqm manufacturing facility in Birmingham.

Its work covers end-to-end design, engineering, testing and production for sectors including renewables, chemical processing, distilleries, manufacturing and heavy industry.

Investment programme and manufacturing footprint

Petrel said the nomination follows a period of investment after it became part of Pioneer Safety Group (PSG) in early 2024.

Phase one of the programme included refurbishment of its Birmingham site and upgrades to IT and supply chain infrastructure.

The company also expanded its research and development and testing capability.

Investment extended to staff benefits, wellbeing initiatives and clearer progression pathways.

Petrel said these changes have improved productivity, reduced lead times and supported plans for growth in the UK and international markets.

Pemberton said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised alongside such respected organisations and to represent the strength of advanced manufacturing in the West Midlands.”

Petrel named the other nominees in the category as Debrett’s and Likewise Group.

Further information about its hazardous area lighting portfolio is available at https://www.petrel-ex.co.uk/

Petrel now goes forward to the February awards alongside two other shortlisted organisations.

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.

Olympia Electronics commentary links Switzerland nightclub incident to safety systems gaps

by Featured NewsFire DetectionIncidentsLighting

Olympia Electronics publishes safety systems commentary

Olympia Electronics has published commentary on the role of safety systems following media reports about a nightclub fire at Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.

The company positioned the incident as part of a wider pattern of fires in public assembly venues linked to pyrotechnics used in enclosed spaces.

Olympia Electronics referenced the 2003 fire at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island, US and the 2015 Colectiv club fire in Bucharest, Romania as comparable incidents.

It said these events shared common factors, including a lack of adequate fire detection and fire protection systems.

Media reports cited in the response

Olympia Electronics said published reports about the Crans-Montana incident described shortcomings in safety inspections, a lack of functional fire detection, inadequate emergency lighting and insufficient marking of emergency exits.

It said those reports claimed the venue had gone five years without a fire safety inspection.

The company also stated that published reporting described an absence of fire detection or suppression systems.

Olympia Electronics said those same reports claimed both emergency exits were blocked by the fire.

Detection and warning time during evacuations

Olympia Electronics said fire detection technology should be treated as a measure that enables the earliest possible identification of a developing incident in public assembly settings.

It described early detection as a way to increase the time available for reaction, evacuation and rescue.

Olympia Electronics said videos circulating from the scene showed people filming the outbreak without recognising the severity of the situation.

The company argued that, without an audible warning from a fire alarm siren, pre-evacuation time can increase because occupants do not receive a clear signal to begin moving toward exits.

Emergency lighting in low visibility conditions

Olympia Electronics said soundproofing materials on ceilings can increase risk because some materials are highly flammable, can burn rapidly and can produce dense toxic gases during combustion.

It said adverse conditions can develop in narrow, complex or underground spaces, particularly where smoke reduces visibility and occupants are unfamiliar with the layout.

Olympia Electronics pointed to emergency escape route lighting and exit signage as systems intended to support evacuation where visibility is degraded.

The company said certified emergency luminaires should be treated as complete systems with defined specifications for autonomy, reliability and durability.

Safety culture and inspection focus

Olympia Electronics said legislative compliance alone does not deliver effective safety outcomes without continuous inspections, appropriate design and reliable equipment.

It said responsibility sits across venue owners, designers, installers, technical companies and public authorities.

Olympia Electronics added that it has developed and manufactured fire detection and emergency lighting solutions in Greece since 1979.