Aero-X installs fire protection systems installed for Schilthorn cable car redevelopment

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionFire EngineeringFire SuppressionProjectsTransport

Fire protection specialist Aero-X has installed systems across the redeveloped Stechelberg–Mürren–Birg-Schilthorn cable car line in Switzerland, a route known both for its engineering complexity and its connection to the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

Swiss company Aero-X was commissioned to provide fire protection for the recently redeveloped line, including systems for the dual-track Funifor cable car infrastructure and electrical control cabinets at all four stations.

The company selected Kentec Sigma XT extinguishant control panels for the project, with 14 panels installed across the station cabinets and connected to the site management system for supervision from the control room.

The Schilthorn route is internationally recognised as the location of Piz Gloria, Blofeld’s mountaintop lair in the 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The cable car line has undergone a major redevelopment as part of the Schilthornbahn 20XX project.

Originally built in the 1960s, the multi-stage aerial cableway system in the Bernese Oberland region had reached the end of its technical lifespan and required a comprehensive modernisation programme.

The redevelopment has increased passenger capacity from 400 to 800 people per hour and reduced the travel time from Stechelberg, on the valley floor, to the Schilthorn summit by around 10 minutes. The first section, from Stechelberg to Mürren, now operates as a direct line with a gradient of 159.4%, making it the steepest aerial cable car in the world.

Paul van Trigt, CEO of Aero-X, said: “It is so steep the cable car has to exit through the roof of the station.”

Aero-X was asked to protect the cable car system and electrical control cabinets at each station. The gondolas, which feature solar panels and battery storage, are protected using Aero-X extinguishant units.

The station cabinet protection includes integrated detection and suppression systems. The cabinets are “doubled up” at each station to support continuity of service in the event of a failure, according to van Trigt.

“The reason we used Kentec panels is that we needed to fulfil certain standards, in particular EN12094, EN15276-1 and EN15276-2,” he said. “I love the XT panel because it is plug and play. Connected properly, it simply works: there is no complicated programming to be done.”

Most of the cabinets are fitted with smoke sensors, while others use heat sensors. Van Trigt explained that some cabinets contain relatively high voltage, which can create electromagnetic fields that affect smoke detection.

Each cabinet includes fire-resistant cable connections, a sounder beacon and both automatic and manual aerosol extinguishant release capabilities.

Two or three extinguishant units are installed in each cabinet and connected to the Sigma XT panel via Aero-X’s sequential activator.

“This allows us to supervise the whole line and make sure all units are triggered in the event of a fire,” van Trigt said. “Two units are triggered, then we wait two seconds, then the next two are triggered, etc.”

The sequential activator is designed to ensure multiple extinguishant units can activate when required, rather than being limited by the current supplied by the panel. Van Trigt said the approach provides a higher level of fire security in line with regulatory requirements.

Van Trigt said the main challenge was logistical rather than technical. “Taking the materials up the mountain to each respective station and installing them during the construction phase was difficult, because there was really nothing to use. We had to find other ways!”

The upgraded cable car line is now carrying passengers on the route to Schilthorn, with fire protection systems from Aero-X and Kentec supporting safety across the redeveloped mountain transport infrastructure.

Britannia Fire launches P50 Monnex fire extinguisher

by ActiveAviationBreaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentIndustrialProducts

Britannia Fire has added to its P50 composite fire extinguisher range with the introduction of Monnex, a specialist, high performance dry powder for high-risk industrial settings.

Monnex powder is non-conductive and rapidly extinguishes Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (flammable gas) fires. It works differently to standard dry powder, breaking into smaller particles in intense heat which increases its surface area and coverage to extinguish fires quickly and more efficiently.

Britannia Fire’s P50 Monnex fire extinguishers are designed for high-risk sites including petrochemical plants, airports, fuel depots, power stations and manufacturing facilities. They are also particularly suitable for isolated, offshore locations such as ships or oil and gas facilities.

All P50s are environmentally friendly and fully recyclable with a 20-year life span and a 10-year guarantee. Unlike traditional, metal fire extinguishers, they don’t require costly external annual servicing. Instead, simple checks can be carried out by a responsible person.

“High-risk industrial sites need fire protection that performs instantly and reliably in extreme conditions,” said Andy Spence, Managing Director of Britannia Fire. “The launch of our P50 Monnex extinguisher gives operators a specialist solution that delivers rapid knock-down on flammable liquid and gas fires, while also reducing long term maintenance and environmental impact.”

A model certified to the Marine Equipment Directive (MED) is also available, which includes the required Schrader valve for equipment used on ships, offshore platforms and marine installations.

“The MED approved P50 Monnex is ideal for offshore environments, where conditions are harsher and regulations are stricter,” added Spence. “The P50 doesn’t corrode like traditional metal extinguishers and is much more durable. It also doesn’t require annual servicing, something that’s historically been very difficult and costly in these hard-to-reach sites. The Schrader valve allows easy pressure checks and re-pressurisation.”

Stat-X condensed aerosol systems receive marine certification

by ActiveBreaking NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Fireaway has announced that its Stat-X condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing systems have received type approval from Bureau Veritas following evaluation in accordance with MSC.1/Circ.1270.

The approvals are supported by three certificates covering the global market, the European Union and the United Kingdom, enabling application in SOLAS-regulated marine environments across global, EU-flagged and UK-flagged vessels.

The Bureau Veritas Type Approval Certificate confirms that Stat-X systems satisfy the requirements of SOLAS 74, as amended, the FSS Code, the 1994 and 2000 HSC Codes, and IMO MSC.1/Circ.1270.

An EC Type Examination Certificate was issued under the EU Marine Equipment Directive 2014/90/EU, supporting the wheelmark pathway for EU-flagged vessels. A UK Type-Examination Certificate was issued by Bureau Veritas under the Merchant Shipping (Marine Equipment) Regulations 2025, authorised by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency.

“This approval confirms that Stat-X systems meet defined evaluation criteria for use in marine applications subject to SOLAS requirements,” said Lance Harry, P.E., President and CEO of Fireaway: “It also reflects the structured process through which performance validation, technical assessment and certification come together in practice.”

The approval covers 15 generator models across the E-series, which uses electrical activation, and the T-series, which uses thermal activation, both of which were evaluated for enclosed marine machinery spaces.

Vessel-specific installations remain subject to review and authorisation by classification societies and flag administrations in line with project-specific conditions.

Stat-X condensed aerosol systems are designed for enclosed and special-hazard environments where compact, electrically non-conductive suppression solutions are required. The systems can be applied across marine spaces including machinery compartments, control cabinets and auxiliary equipment enclosures.

Promatect-LS service enclosure system launched by Promat

by Breaking NewsFire EngineeringPassiveProducts

Promatect-LS service enclosure system delivers up to 120 minutes of fire resistance

Promat has launched the Promatect-LS service enclosure system, a new passive fire protection solution offering up to 120 minutes of fire resistance and tested for fire exposure both inside and outside the enclosure.

The Promatect-LS service enclosure system also provides protection for critical cabling within the enclosure, helping to maintain essential service functionality during a fire.

Complementing Promat’s existing portfolio of ducting and service enclosure solutions, Promatect-LS service enclosures have been independently tested and classified to EN 1366-5 and EN 13501-2. The Promatect-LS cable protection system has also been independently tested and classified to EN 1366-1 and EN 13501-3. Both systems have been tested for horizontal and vertical applications.

Fire-rated service enclosures play a critical role in large buildings by protecting essential infrastructure, including data cables and power lines, while supporting emergency response measures.

In the event of a fire, inadequately protected service enclosures can provide a route for fire spread. Promatect®-LS is designed to contain fire within the enclosure, reducing the risk of rapid fire propagation and helping to protect escape routes by preventing smoke infiltration.

The system has been developed to protect services in a range of environments, including high-rise buildings, hospitals and care facilities, underground car parks, transport hubs and laboratories.

Margherita Mullis, Product Manager at Promat, said: “Correctly specified, fire-rated service enclosures play an essential role in helping to contain the spread of fire, and are vital to maintaining compartmentation.

“It is important to remember that fire can break out in cables themselves, which makes it vital that service enclosures offer the same level of protection both on the inside and outside of the enclosure.

“In testing to the latest EN standards, Promatect-LS successfully demonstrated fire resistance for up to 120 minutes, meaning it is suitable for gas pipe, and mechanical and electrical service enclosures.

“Active fire protection often also relies on service functionality, and accurately specified cable protection enclosures are essential for reliable operation of systems such as sprinklers and emergency lighting. Promatect-LS is designed to help to ensure buildings are protected long enough to allow occupants to escape and fire fighters to safely operate.”

Rated A1 non-combustible, Promatect-LS is moisture-resistant and certified for 25 years of durability, supporting long-term performance in environments with high service density such as plant rooms and basements.

In addition to EN testing, classification reports are available for Promatect-LS systems.

KiddeFenwal showcases BESS fire protection solution

by ActiveBreaking NewsFire DetectionProducts

KiddeFenwal is using two major fire safety events to highlight a multi-layered fire protection approach designed for battery energy storage systems (BESS), as the sector faces increasing scrutiny over the risks associated with lithium-ion battery installations.

The company, which specialises in fire protection and safety controls, presented its BESS-focused technologies at Interschutz and will also showcase it at the NFPA Conference and Expo. The systems are intended to detect early warning signs of fire and support rapid suppression before incidents escalate into thermal runaway events.

BESS are becoming an increasingly important part of global energy infrastructure, particularly as renewable energy deployment grows. However, their use of lithium-ion batteries can present complex fire risks, including overheating, flammable gas build-up and cell-to-cell fire propagation.

KiddeFenwal said its approach brings together several technologies to provide enhanced protection for BESS applications. These include:

REL-iON – a sensor platform that monitors flammable gases, hydrogen, overheating, refrigerant and water leaks, air temperature and humidity changes, and other early signs of corrosion and fire

Air sampling detection designed to provide early warning of smoke at the incipient stage

AEGIS– PHX and ARIES-SLX fire alarm-suppression control units that can trigger immediate suppression action

Fluoro-K – a clean agent designed to reduce temperature, tackle flames at the source and help stop cell-to-cell propagation without leaving harmful residue

NATURA IG-100 – an inert gas system that uses nitrogen to maintain an oxygen-deficient environment that cannot support combustion, helping prevent re-ignition

According to KiddeFenwal, research conducted at the University of Maryland over a multi-year period, alongside controlled fire tests conducted in December 2025, found that the systems were most effective when used together. The company said the combined approach can quickly detect and suppress initial flames, protect equipment and help maintain safer conditions for first responders.

“The full promise of BESS as reliable and sustainable energy solutions can truly be unleashed when protected with highly sophisticated fire systems,” said Rekha Agrawal, CEO of KiddeFenwal. “KiddeFenwal is advancing the pioneering fire prevention, detection and suppression systems needed for today’s most forward-thinking energy storage companies worldwide.”

Flame resistant fibre protective wear range launched by Lenzing

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentPassivePPEProductsSafety

Cellulosic fibre specialist Lenzing has launched a new range of Flame resistant fibre protective wear.

The company says its three-tier protective wear offering is a range of hybrid and flame resistant-finished garments, with independent testing indicating lower heat stress than several conventional FR fabric options.

Lenzing’s portfolio is built around LENZING FR and TENCEL Lyocell fibres, positioning the range as a single-source system for manufacturers developing garments for structural firefighting, utilities, oil and gas, welding and heavy industry. The company says the line-up combines inherent flame-resistant, hybrid and FR-finished options so specifiers can match protection levels more closely to operational risk, comfort demands and cost targets.

For the fire and safety market, the most significant part of the launch is the way Lenzing has split its offer into three application tiers. The inherent protection tier, based on LENZING FR blended with aramid, is aimed at the highest-risk environments including structural firefighting and electrical utilities.

A hybrid tier using TENCEL Lyocell A100 with modacrylic is positioned for oil and gas, industrial workwear and high-visibility applications, while the flame resistant-finished tier is targeted at steel, welding and metalworking where lower-cost protection remains a priority.

A central claim in the launch is wearer performance under thermal strain. Lenzing cited independent physiological testing at 35°C showing that garments containing LENZING FR/aramid blends produced a 29% lower rise in core body temperature than flame resistant-treated cotton (0.75°C vs 1.05°C), and lower readings than both 100% aramid (1.05°C) and modacrylic/cotton blends (1.1°C).

“For too long, the protective wear industry has relied on a one-size-fits-all fibre approach, yet a structural firefighter and a welding technician face fundamentally different risks,” says Alexander Gstettner, Global Commercial Director, FR fibres at Lenzing. “With PFAS regulations accelerating and workers operating in increasingly demanding thermal environments, we see a clear need for a more structured approach.”

Alongside performance, Lenzing is pushing the sustainability case for its cellulosic. |The company claims that dope-dyed LENZING flame resistant fibres eliminates additional dyeing processes, enabling up to 50% reductions in energy and water use and up to 60% lower carbon footprint compared to conventional dyeing.

Wildfire danger awareness raised in NFFF video

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsPeopleSafetyVideoWildland Fire

With a growing need for education and awareness surrounding wildfires, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) has released a Safety INSight video designed to educate both the fire service and the public on these fires.

“Wildfires are becoming more frequent and more destructive, which makes this a critical time for education.” Said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the NFFF. “We’re proud to bring more attention to the issue by highlighting the advancements being made in wildfire safety while also giving people practical information on how they can better protect their homes and communities.”

The video is said to explain what areas are considered Wild-Urban Interface fires and provides historical context around some of the deadliest and most destructive events in U.S. history.

Also in the video, Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) representatives discuss the organisation’s research and testing facilities that recreate real-world scenarios. This work is claimed to help identify vulnerabilities in homes and communities while developing practical solutions that can reduce wildfire risk.

FlamePro to provide life-saving kit to fire services

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyPPEProductsProjects

East Yorkshire-based firefighter PPE manufacturer FlamePro has been awarded a place on the UK’s National Firefighter PPE Framework, overseen by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), to supply life-saving kit to fire services.

FlamePro has been named on six lots within the framework, covering both its structural firefighter and lightweight firefighting PPE.

Tony Arnett, FlamePro’s Managing Director, said: “Our selection for this framework will widen our customer base in the UK significantly, and enable us to help more fire and rescue services protect their crews when called out on life-saving operations.”

The company’s structural firefighter kit is strong, but lightweight, and provides crews with maximum protection, while also ensuring comfort and fit, and is suitable for fire crews engaging in complex, lengthy search and rescue missions, as well as responding to road traffic accidents.

Through the framework, fire services can either purchase PPE or have a fully managed service for the term of the contract, with the latter seeing FlamePro also manage the cleaning and maintenance of clothing.

FlamePro has teamed up with workwear laundry service provider CLEAN to offer fire services a hassle-free, swift and efficient kit maintenance experience.

One of the reasons FlamePro was named on the framework was the company’s development of its comprehensive asset management app, FlamePro Central, which is said to enable fire services and other customers to track each individual piece of clothing and kit.

Kit will be provided with a built-in Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip, which ensures fire services have real-time visibility of the location of items of clothing and kit. For example, if kit is sent for cleaning, the fire service will receive notifications when individual garments are in transit, at the cleaning facility, and being returned.

Fire services will be able to use the app to check kit returns at the station after a callout, reducing the risk of items being lost or misplaced. It also means fire services have a complete record of how many times each piece of kit has been cleaned, so they know accurately when a garment has reached the end of its life.

The National Firefighter PPE Framework will run for eight years, with FlamePro selected for all six lots the business tendered for.

Ballyclare selected as preferred supplier on National Firefighter PPE Framework

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyPPEProducts

National Firefighter PPE Framework appointment sees Ballyclare chosen across multiple PPE and service categories for UK fire and rescue services

Ballyclare has been selected as a preferred supplier on the National Firefighter PPE Framework, a new procurement initiative designed to provide modern firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) and related services to the UK’s approximately 50,000 firefighters.

The National Firefighter PPE Framework, managed by the Kent and Medway Towns Fire and Rescue Authority, aims to streamline procurement processes for fire and rescue services while providing access to high-quality PPE ensembles and maintenance services.

Following a competitive tender process that included technical assessments, cost evaluations and practical user trials, Ballyclare secured selection across several categories, including Managed Services, Structural Firefighting PPE, Lightweight Firefighting PPE, Structural Firefighting Boots, and Cleaning and Maintenance.

The company’s submission included a next-generation version of its Xenon structural firefighting ensemble, designed to provide protection during structural firefighting operations. The ensemble incorporates a three-layer fabric construction, reinforced elbow and knee protection, and fire-retardant phosphorescent tape intended to improve visibility in low-light environments. The garment has also been engineered with durable seams, stitching and fabrics to withstand operational demands and repeated cleaning cycles.

Also selected under the framework was Ballyclare’s newly developed lightweight hybrid jacket and trouser ensemble for technical rescue and wildland firefighting applications. The garment is designed to meet the relevant EN standards for both operational environments and features flame-retardant fabrics intended to provide protection against blood-borne pathogens, chemicals and particulates while maintaining wearer comfort.

Through the framework, Ballyclare will additionally supply two fire boot models from its Tuffking range, which are used by fire and rescue services across the UK.

The company will also provide cleaning and maintenance services through the framework, offering a seven-day turnaround service for the collection, cleaning, repair and return of firefighting kit. Ballyclare said the service will be delivered in partnership with a professional cleaning provider operating facilities at multiple locations across the UK.

Philip Tasker, Global Sales Lead for Fire & Security at Ballyclare, said: “We are delighted that our services have been selected through such a competitive process and that our kit has been recognised for its technical performance, wearer comfort and overall value for money. Our success reflects the strength of our product innovation, our deep understanding of the fire sector, the agility of our company as a UK-based SME and the expertise of our teams across design, manufacturing and service delivery.

“Ultimately, this is about making sure the UK’s firefighters have kit they can trust when it matters most, and we’re proud to be delivering that on a national scale.”

The framework is intended to simplify procurement for fire and rescue services while ensuring access to compliant PPE and support services through approved suppliers. Ballyclare’s appointment positions the company to support fire and rescue organisations across the UK through the framework’s procurement structure.

Newcastle Airport promotes three firefighters

by People

Newcastle Airport has announced the promotion of three Firefighters in recognition of their outstanding commitment, professionalism and leadership. 

Promotions

Callum Davison has been appointed Fire Station Manager, Owen Reed has been promoted to Watch Manager and Chris Brennan has stepped into the role of Crew Manager within the Airport’s Rescue and Firefighting Service. 

The Airport operates its own fire service, with over 40 firefighters working on rotation to provide 24/7 cover. The team is on hand to respond to incidents and carries out safety inspections to keep flights and the Airport operating safely. 

Bringing a combined 33 years of experience to the team, Davison, Reed and Brennan each play key roles in supporting operational activity and help to train colleagues. 

Charity support

Beyond their operational duties, Davison and Reed recently joined colleagues from the Airport’s fire service and the on-site Training Academy to take on the mammoth challenge of climbing Scafell Pike – England’s tallest mountain – while wearing full fire kit and breathing apparatus. 

The company said that the team raised an impressive £2,344 for True Colours Theatre, the Airport’s official charity partner. 

“A vital role”

Davison said: “I’m incredibly proud to be promoted to Station Manager at Newcastle Airport’s Rescue and Firefighting Service. 

“Working at the Airport has given me the opportunity to develop my skills and progress through the ranks, and there’s no greater feeling than knowing our team plays a vital role in helping to keep colleagues and passengers safe.” 

“A big milestone”

Reed added: “Becoming Watch Manager is a big milestone for me. Working for the Rescue and Firefighting Service is very rewarding and it’s a fantastic place to build a career.” 

“The next step”

Brennan said: “I’m delighted to be promoted to Crew Manager. 

“It’s a great opportunity to take the next step in my career and I look forward to continuing to support the team and delivering the high safety standards our passengers and colleagues expect.” 

“Exceptional commitment, professionalism and leadership”

Paul Farmer, Director of Operations at Newcastle Airport, said: “Callum, Owen and Chris have each demonstrated exceptional commitment, professionalism and leadership throughout their time with our Rescue and Firefighting Service. 

“Their promotions show how Newcastle Airport invests in its people and provides clear pathways for development and progression and I would like to congratulate all three on their well-deserved appointments,” Farmer concluded.