SOCOTEC Middle East appoints Lana Benny as senior fire engineer

by Featured NewsPeople

Lana Benny joins SOCOTEC Middle East fire engineering team

SOCOTEC Middle East has announced the appointment of Lana Benny as senior fire engineer.

Benny will contribute to the company’s fire and life safety services, focusing on fire engineering solutions for the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Benny’s background in fire protection engineering

Benny has expertise in fire and smoke modelling, fire risk assessment, and regulatory-compliant fire protection strategies.

She holds a master’s degree in fire protection engineering from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Heriot-Watt University.

Previous experience in fire safety projects

Benny has worked on various fire safety projects, including the NY Korea Center, Marjan Offshore Platform, and Expo 2020 pavilions.

She has been a fire protection consultant at TERPconsulting in New York City and is a member of SFPE and IFE.

SOCOTEC Middle East’s fire safety capabilities

SOCOTEC Middle East provides fire and life safety consultancy services across construction and infrastructure projects.

Benny’s appointment is part of the company’s expansion in fire engineering expertise to support its clients in these sectors.

SOCOTEC Middle East appoints Lana Benny as senior fire engineer: Summary

SOCOTEC Middle East has appointed Lana Benny as senior fire engineer. Benny specialises in fire and smoke modelling, fire risk assessment, and code-compliant fire protection approaches.

She holds a master’s degree in fire protection engineering from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Heriot-Watt University. Her past projects include the NY Korea Center, Marjan Offshore Platform, and Expo 2020 pavilions.

Previously, she was a fire protection consultant at TERPconsulting in New York City. She is a member of SFPE and IFE.

SOCOTEC Middle East provides fire and life safety services to the construction and infrastructure sectors. Benny’s appointment supports the company’s expansion in fire engineering expertise.

Serco graduate programme highlights UAE women’s leadership development

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeople

Serco recognises International Women’s Day with graduate success

Serco has marked International Women’s Day by celebrating the graduation of Marwa Al Mansoori from its UAE-based Graduate Programme.

The milestone is part of Serco’s broader efforts to support gender diversity and develop national talent.

According to Serco, women now make up 50% of its executive leadership team, 33% of critical roles, and 35% of its divisional management team.

The company also reported that nearly half of new national hires are women.

Marwa Al Mansoori, who has completed the programme and now works as a Health and Safety Assurance Officer at Serco Middle East, described the experience as instrumental in developing her leadership skills and industry expertise.

Graduate reflects on programme experience

Marwa Al Mansoori said the programme provided valuable mentorship and exposure to real-world challenges: “This milestone is incredibly meaningful to me, not just as a personal achievement but as a reminder of how far I’ve come.”

She highlighted that graduating on International Women’s Day added significance to her success: “It represents growth, resilience, and the power of opportunity, reinforcing that women can thrive in any industry.”

She added that the programme allowed her to develop practical skills in safety, quality, and efficiency, preparing her for further responsibilities in the field.

International Women’s Day theme: ‘Accelerate Action’

Serco’s recognition of International Women’s Day aligns with this year’s theme of ‘Accelerate Action.’ Marwa Al Mansoori noted the increasing presence of women in leadership roles across the UAE.

She said: “Women in the UAE are driving change by stepping into leadership roles, excelling in diverse industries, and challenging outdated stereotypes.

“They are not waiting for permission—they are creating opportunities, innovating, and proving their capabilities in fields like engineering, aviation, and public services.”

She credited support from both the UAE government and private sector as key factors in accelerating progress for women in the workforce.

Serco’s approach to talent development

Serco stated that its Graduate Programme is part of its ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce.

The programme provides hands-on experience, mentoring, and opportunities for professional growth.

Marwa Al Mansoori encouraged other young women to seek out opportunities in their fields: “Believe in your abilities and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Seek mentors, ask questions, and never stop learning.

“Your voice and contributions are valuable, and with determination, you can make a real impact.”

Serco graduate programme highlights UAE women’s leadership development: Summary

Serco has celebrated International Women’s Day by marking the graduation of Marwa Al Mansoori from its UAE-based Graduate Programme.

The company reported that 50% of its executive leadership team are women, while 33% hold critical roles, and 35% are in divisional management.

Nearly half of new national hires are women.

Marwa Al Mansoori, now a Health and Safety Assurance Officer at Serco Middle East, credited the programme with strengthening her leadership skills and professional development.

She said graduating on International Women’s Day underscored the importance of resilience and opportunity for women in the workforce.

She also noted the UAE’s progress in increasing women’s representation in leadership roles across industries.

Serco stated that its Graduate Programme is part of its commitment to supporting national talent and workplace diversity.

Hannay Reels announce appearance at FDIC

by Featured NewsPeople

Hannay Reels has announced that they will be showcasing various high-quality reels for fire applications at the April FDIC show. They will be in booth 4069 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Hannay’s appearance at FDIC will provide insights into what their reels offers to the firefighting and rescue industry.

Features of the reels

Hannay will be featuring several different reel series, all of which have unique benefits and customizers to fit customer needs. The series is available in various materials, pressures, temperatures, hose and cable widths. Numerous reel accessories are available upon request.

These reels are particularly well suited for firefighting and emergency applications due to their durability, dependability and compact footprint.

Customers have the option to customize the reel to fit perfectly into the tight spaces of emergency vehicles. The applications these reels support are perfect for fighting off fire threats and performing critical rescue operations.

Equipment specifications deliver performance under extreme conditions day after day, allowing for quicker deployment and pick up.

Hannay’s high quality, low-maintenance reels were engineered to perform quickly and smoothly, operate safely, and continue working year after year. Each reel is built to customer specifications and is available with a variety of mounting options for truck, trailer, garage and handheld applications.

Hannay Reels announce product showcase at FDIC: Summary

Hannay Reels has announced that they will be at booth 4069 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana for the April FDIC show.

Fire Protection Association revises membership scheme to enhance industry support

by Featured NewsPeople

FPA updates membership categories and benefits

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has introduced changes to its membership scheme, aimed at providing enhanced support for fire safety and construction professionals.

According to the FPA, the revised scheme introduces three membership categories: Individual, Small Business, and Corporate. These categories are designed to differentiate between company sizes and ensure appropriate access to the organisation’s technical guidance and resources. Existing members will transition to their corresponding category upon renewal, while new members will automatically join under the updated structure.

FPA CEO Dr Gavin Dunn said: “Our membership offering supports fire safety and construction professionals with the challenges they face on a daily basis through the provision of technical expertise and guidance. This is more important now than ever following the introduction of the Building Safety Act and as the nature of risk continues to evolve.”

New benefits introduced for members

The updated scheme includes several new benefits, such as the ability for members to contribute to FPA guidance, research projects, and consultation responses. Members will also have access to an expanded programme of CPD-approved webinars in 2025.

These webinars will cover topics including modern methods of construction, fire risk assessor competence frameworks, and updates to the LPC Sprinkler Rules. Quarterly Q&A sessions with FPA technical consultants will continue, providing members with opportunities to discuss key topics such as the government’s response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Report.

The FPA has also made its suite of e-courses available to members, covering fire safety topics such as hot works, fire warden roles, and fire door inspections.

Digital and technical resources for members

The FPA is working to enhance its digital Fire & Risk Management Journal, which will be available in an interactive format from spring 2025. This will include audio and video content as well as improved search functionality.

Members will also have access to updated technical mini guides, which summarise key industry guidance. Additional training information packs and downloadable business templates will be available to support organisations in implementing fire safety best practices.

James Stone from the FPA said: “Our research and guidance are at the core of our membership scheme, especially when it comes to ensuring our members have access to what they need, when they need it, to carry out their day-to-day responsibilities.”

New Code of Professional Conduct introduced

A new Code of Professional Conduct has been introduced as part of the updated membership scheme. The FPA states that while membership does not accredit or endorse products or services, all new and renewing members must now commit to this code, which sets expectations for integrity, professional behaviour, and competency.

The FPA said the code aims to ensure that members maintain professional standards and that customers can expect a consistent level of service.

Fire Protection Association revises membership scheme to enhance industry support: Summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has updated its membership scheme, introducing three categories: Individual, Small Business, and Corporate. Existing members will be transitioned upon renewal, and new members will join under the revised structure.

New benefits include the ability for members to contribute to FPA guidance and research, access to an expanded CPD webinar programme, and availability of e-courses covering fire safety topics.

The digital Fire & Risk Management Journal will be enhanced with an interactive format in 2025. Additional technical resources such as updated mini guides, training packs, and downloadable templates will also be available.

A new Code of Professional Conduct has been introduced, requiring members to commit to professional standards in integrity, behaviour, and competency.

London Fire Brigade’s longest-serving fire investigation dog retires after 12 years

by Breaking NewsPeopleSearch and Rescue

Fire investigation dog Sherlock retires after 12-year career

London Fire Brigade has announced the retirement of its longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, following 12 years of service.

Sherlock, a Working Cocker Spaniel born in 2012, joined the Brigade at just ten weeks old and was certified as a fire investigation dog in 2013.

Over his career, he attended numerous incidents, including the Grenfell Tower fire, and assisted in key investigations.

Sherlock’s role involved detecting ignitable substances at fire scenes, aiding fire investigators in determining causes.

In recent years, he became an ambassador for fire safety, attending community events to promote awareness.

Sherlock’s training and contributions to fire investigations

The London Fire Brigade selects fire investigation dogs based on their strong drive to play, using positive reinforcement techniques during training.

Sherlock was trained to detect up to 10 different ignitable liquids, such as petrol and acetone, in various states.

Throughout his career, he attended major fire scenes, including a serious incident in Tottenham where two firefighters were injured and a murder investigation in New Malden.

His work supported fire investigators in determining causes and contributing to safety measures.

Retirement and continued care for Sherlock

Sherlock will retire at home with his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne, who has cared for him throughout his service.

The London Retired Police Dogs Trust (LRPD) will provide financial support for his ongoing care.

Osborne said: “Following an illustrious and decorated career, Sherlock will be stepping down from LFB.

“He has been working at the Brigade for 12 years, and in that time has been influential in maintaining our dog handling capability way beyond his tenure as well as showing the other dogs the ropes.”

He added: “In dog years, Sherlock is 100 years old, so it’s only fitting for him to hang up his boots now and take a well-earned break.”

Fire investigation team continues its work

Despite Sherlock’s retirement, the London Fire Brigade’s Fire Investigation team continues its work with two other trained dogs.

Simba, aged eight, and Smokey, aged three, will remain in service, supporting fire investigations both within and outside of London.

Fire investigation dogs typically serve for around 10 years and undergo annual training refreshers to maintain their detection skills.

London Fire Brigade’s Sherlock retires after 12 years of service: Summary

London Fire Brigade has confirmed the retirement of its longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, after 12 years.

Born in 2012, Sherlock joined the Brigade as a puppy and was certified in 2013.

Over his career, he attended incidents, including the Grenfell Tower fire, and assisted investigators by detecting ignitable substances.

Sherlock’s training allowed him to identify up to 10 different substances, supporting fire scene analysis.

In recent years, he transitioned to a role as a fire safety ambassador.

Now retired, Sherlock will live with his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne, who has cared for him throughout his career.

The London Retired Police Dogs Trust will provide financial support for his care.

The Brigade’s fire investigation team continues its work with two other dogs, Simba and Smokey, who remain in active service.

Fire investigation dogs typically serve for around 10 years and receive ongoing training to maintain their skills.

NFPA appoints Fernando Escalante to lead international business development in Latin America

by Featured NewsPeople

Escalante to oversee NFPA growth and partnerships in Latin America

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Fernando Escalante as its new manager of International Business Development for Latin America.

Escalante will be responsible for expanding NFPA’s presence in the region, working with key stakeholders across the fire, electrical, and life safety sectors.

His role includes strengthening partnerships and increasing engagement with government agencies, industry associations, and private sector organisations.

Industry experience and NFPA expertise

Escalante has a background in electrical engineering and nearly two decades of leadership experience with Schneider Electric.

His previous roles included managing regional projects and developing business growth strategies through partnerships.

In addition to his corporate experience, Escalante has served as an instructor for NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC), providing training on NFPA standards and their implementation.

His knowledge of electrical safety regulations and industry best practices aligns with NFPA’s efforts to enhance fire and life safety in Latin America.

Leadership perspective on safety and collaboration

Olga Caledonia, director of International Business Development at NFPA, said: “Fernando’s extensive industry knowledge and leadership in the Latin American market will be instrumental in advancing the NFPA mission.

“We are excited to have him lead our international business development efforts in the region, helping to foster collaboration and drive the use of NFPA standards and resources.”

Escalante stated that he looks forward to working with industry leaders across Latin America to enhance fire, electrical, and life safety standards.

He emphasised the importance of NFPA’s role in supporting safety initiatives worldwide.

Focus on engagement and regional initiatives

Based in Costa Rica, Escalante will work closely with government bodies and industry professionals to support training and the implementation of NFPA standards.

His responsibilities include expanding educational initiatives and collaborating on fire safety regulations.

NFPA continues to develop its presence in Latin America by engaging with local stakeholders to promote the adoption of its safety standards.

The organisation provides resources and training to support fire protection, electrical safety, and risk reduction efforts.

NFPA appoints Fernando Escalante to lead international business development in Latin America: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Fernando Escalante as manager of International Business Development for Latin America.

His role includes expanding NFPA’s partnerships and presence in the region, working with key stakeholders in fire, electrical, and life safety.

Escalante has extensive industry experience, having worked for nearly two decades with Schneider Electric and served as an instructor for NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC).

NFPA director Olga Caledonia said his leadership would help drive collaboration and increase the use of NFPA standards.

Based in Costa Rica, Escalante will work with government agencies, industry associations, and private sector organisations to support fire and life safety initiatives.

His appointment is part of NFPA’s broader efforts to promote training and improve safety standards across Latin America.

Streamlight names Michael F. Dineen as new President

by Breaking NewsPeople

Michael F. Dineen takes on new leadership role

Streamlight has announced the promotion of Michael F. Dineen to the position of president.

He previously served as chief revenue officer and succeeds Raymond L. Sharrah, who will continue as chief executive officer, providing overall corporate oversight.

Dineen joined Streamlight in 2009 as vice president of sales and marketing, managing the company’s sales efforts across multiple sectors, including law enforcement, sporting goods, industrial, military, federal government, automotive, and fire/EMS.

In 2022, he was appointed chief revenue officer, taking on additional responsibilities in materials and operations.

Dineen’s background and industry experience

Before joining Streamlight, Dineen spent 17 years at MSA Safety, where he held various sales leadership roles.

His responsibilities included managing sales teams and contributing to product development and marketing strategies for public safety, military, and industrial markets.

At MSA Safety, he served as director of sales for North American first responder markets and was previously northern North America sales manager for the fire service market.

His experience in these sectors aligns with key areas of Streamlight’s business.

Expanded responsibilities as president

In his new role, Dineen will continue overseeing sales and marketing while also taking on leadership of product management, accounting and finance, and IT operations.

His responsibilities will include strategic planning and corporate leadership across these areas.

Sharrah stated: “Mike’s deep understanding of our business, combined with his forward-thinking approach to leadership, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Streamlight into its next phase of growth.”

Education and professional qualifications

Dineen holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Saint Joseph’s University and an MBA with a focus in marketing from Seton Hall University.

Streamlight names Michael F. Dineen as new president: Summary

Streamlight has promoted Michael F. Dineen to president.

He was previously chief revenue officer and has been with the company since 2009.

He succeeds Raymond L. Sharrah, who will remain as CEO.

Dineen previously worked at MSA Safety for 17 years in sales and leadership roles across the public safety, military, and industrial markets.

At Streamlight, he has overseen sales, marketing, materials, and operations.

As president, he will continue to lead sales and marketing while taking on responsibility for product management, finance, and IT.

Sharrah described Dineen as a strong leader with a deep understanding of the business.

Dineen holds degrees from Saint Joseph’s University and Seton Hall University.

Erick Bellefleur appointed CEO of INNOTEX as Claude Barbeau retires

by Featured NewsPeoplePPE

Leadership transition at INNOTEX

INNOTEX has announced that Erick Bellefleur has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective 18 February 2025.

He takes over from Claude Barbeau, who will retire in April 2025.

Bellefleur brings over 30 years of experience in general management, strategic planning, and business development in the industrial manufacturing sector.

His previous roles include Senior Vice-President of Michelin’s off-road business and CEO of Camso Inc.

Louis Carpentier, Executive Chairman of INNOTEX, said: “We are excited to have Erick on board to lead INNOTEX into the company’s next stage of growth.

“He came from organisations with similar corporate values and systems as INNOTEX.

“He is a charismatic leader and a team player. I very much look forward to working with Erick.”

Background and experience of the new CEO

Bellefleur has worked across manufacturing, marketing, R&D, supply chain, B2B sales, and mergers and acquisitions.

His previous leadership roles focused on operational efficiency, strategic growth, and customer-focused initiatives.

Commenting on his appointment, Bellefleur said: “INNOTEX has proven its ability to innovate and adapt in the fire and rescue industry through its people that hold a passion towards its customers. I’m honoured to lead this team into a bright future.”

Retirement of Claude Barbeau

Barbeau has served as CEO of INNOTEX for a decade and will step down in April 2025.

Reflecting on his tenure, he said: “It has been an incredible honour to lead INNOTEX over the past 10 years.

This exceptional company has a bright future ahead, and I look forward to spending more time with my family, travelling, and continuing to support INNOTEX.”

Carpentier acknowledged Barbeau’s contributions: “Claude has elevated innovation at INNOTEX by introducing flagship products and leading a production overhaul that drove sustained growth.

“We wish his well-earned retirement is as rewarding and satisfying as his career.”

About INNOTEX

Founded in 1999, INNOTEX designs, develops, and manufactures fire-protective turnout gear, multifunctional rescue gear, and protective hoods and gloves.

The company produces protective clothing for American firefighters in the United States.

Erick Bellefleur appointed CEO of INNOTEX as Claude Barbeau retires: Summary

INNOTEX has announced the appointment of Erick Bellefleur as its new CEO, effective 18 February 2025.

He succeeds Claude Barbeau, who will retire in April 2025 after a decade in the role.

Bellefleur has over 30 years of experience in industrial manufacturing, previously serving as Senior Vice-President of Michelin’s off-road business and CEO of Camso Inc.

He has expertise in manufacturing, marketing, R&D, supply chain, B2B sales, and mergers and acquisitions.

Barbeau expressed gratitude for his tenure and plans to continue supporting the company.

INNOTEX Executive Chairman Louis Carpentier highlighted Barbeau’s contributions to innovation and growth.

Founded in 1999, INNOTEX manufactures fire-protective turnout gear, rescue gear, and protective equipment for firefighters in the United States.

Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025: Finalists revealed

by Breaking NewsEventsPeople

Recognising achievements in UK fire safety

The finalists for the first Fire Resilience Excellence Awards (FREAs) have been announced.

The FREAs highlight achievements in fire safety and resilience across the UK.

The awards recognise individuals, teams, organisations, and innovations that contribute to fire protection and preparedness.

According to Fire Resilience Excellence Awards, the judging panel is formed of representatives from industry bodies, including the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA), Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), Fire Industry Association (FIA), Fire Protection Association (FPA), and Women in the Fire Service UK (WFS).

Categories and finalists

The FREAs include several award categories. Finalists for the Outstanding Leader award include Colin Todd of CS Todd and Associates, Craig Parkin of Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, and Mabel Higgins of MH Fire Safety.

For the Outstanding Team category, shortlisted groups include the Pobl Fire Compliance Team, NHS Leicester’s Fire Safety Team, and Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service Corporate Communications Team.

The Outstanding Organisation category features CBES Fire & Security, Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, and the Fire Industry Association.

Industry contributions and innovation

The Outstanding Consultant category includes PartB Group, Keith Todd of Ridge, and Global HSE Group.

In the Outstanding Installer/Integrator category, finalists include Steve Farr of Camsafe Fire & Security Systems, Wentworth Security & Fire Protection, and Mitie Fire & Security Systems.

Shortlisted candidates for Outstanding Product/Innovation include OmniCALL by Baldwin Boxall, Redplug’s Red-Stop®, and the FRAEW App by Kieran Essex and Sam Squire of PartB.

Event details and ticket availability

The FREAs ceremony, sponsored by AXA, will take place on 8 April 2025 at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel.

The awards will be presented during a dinner event, co-located with The Safety and Security Series.

According to Fire Resilience Excellence Awards, tickets for the event are now available for purchase online.

Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025: Summary

The Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025 finalists have been announced.

The awards recognise individuals, teams, organisations, and innovations that contribute to fire safety and resilience in the UK.

Finalists include professionals from fire safety organisations, hospitals, universities, and private sector companies.

Categories include Outstanding Leader, Outstanding Team, Outstanding Organisation, and Outstanding Product/Innovation.

The awards are supported by industry bodies such as the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association, Fire Industry Association, and Women in the Fire Service UK.

The ceremony will take place on 8 April 2025 at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel.

Tickets are available for purchase online.

Finalists for the Fire Resilience Excellence Awards 2025: Full List

Outstanding Leader

  • Colin Todd – CS Todd and Associates
  • Craig Parkin – Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service
  • Mabel Higgins – MH Fire Safety
  • Andrea Necchi Ghiri – City Fire Proofing
  • Nick Lacey – Wolverhampton Homes

Outstanding Team

  • Pobl Fire Compliance Team – Pobl Group
  • Michael Meehan – Lancashire Teaching Hospital
  • Fire Safety Team – NHS – UHL Leicester
  • James Cass – Trinity Pro
  • Fire Safety Team – Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
  • University Hospitals of Liverpool Group Fire Safety Team
  • FRSNI
  • Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service Corporate Communications Team
  • Fire Risk Assessment Team – The Riverside Group
  • MH Fire Safety
  • Wolverhampton Homes’ Fire Safety Team

Outstanding Organisation

  • CBES Fire & Security
  • Aico
  • FRSNI
  • Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service
  • Fire Industry Association
  • Eurotech Fire Systems
  • 4site Consulting

Outstanding Consultant

  • PartB Group
  • Keith Todd – Ridge
  • Global HSE Group

Outstanding Installer/Integrator

  • Steve Farr – Camsafe Fire & Security Systems
  • Wentworth Security & Fire Protection
  • Mitie Fire & Security Systems
  • RayFire Services

Outstanding Product/Innovation

  • Mary-Anna Jennings – SWIFS Project
  • FRAEW App by Kieran Essex and Sam Squire – PartB
  • The Mass Timber Insurance Playbook – The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products
  • OmniCALL – Baldwin Boxall
  • Redplug – Red-Stop®
  • Matt Bates – Ciqurix
  • Global HSE Group – Global Academy
  • Eurotech Fire Systems – Sygno-fi Dongle Device
  • SafeVue – Drax Technology
  • Safegate – Safegate Drakon
  • Bull Products – SITENET
  • Cygnus – SmartNet
  • Mark Paton – Original CAD Plans

Outstanding Partnership/Collaboration

  • Aico & Melville Housing Association
  • Eurotech Fire Systems & Charles Thomas Heritage Fire Protection
  • Canary Wharf Group & London Fire Brigade

Acorn Safety Services hires fire safety expert Julian Dean

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Julian Dean joins Acorn Safety Services

Acorn Safety Services has appointed Julian Dean as its new fire safety manager.

Dean has 15 years of experience in fire safety, having worked as a Fire Risk Assessor and Business Development Manager.

He has conducted fire risk assessments for various clients, including television personalities Jeremy Clarkson and James May.

Dean appeared in series two, episode six of Clarkson’s Farm, where he carried out a fire risk assessment at the Diddly Squat Farm Shop.

He has also assessed fire risks for Clarkson’s newly opened pub, The Farmer’s Dog, and May’s boutique hotel, The Royal Oak in Wiltshire.

Fire risk assessments for high-profile clients

Dean’s experience includes conducting fire risk assessments at Wycombe Wanderers FC and other commercial properties.

Speaking about his involvement with Clarkson’s Farm, Dean said: “I was working for a local housing association, and they pick up work occasionally from West Oxfordshire Council.

“They asked if there was a fire risk assessor available and I went along not knowing as I’d never seen the programme. I was portrayed as the irritating fire inspector.”

He is expected to feature in series four of the show, which is set to be released in May.

New role at Acorn Safety Services

Dean has now joined Acorn Safety Services and is looking forward to bringing his expertise to the company.

He said: “It’s great to be part of a lovely team of people again as before Acorn Safety I was working for myself for a year. The team have been really welcoming.”

Acorn Safety Services provides fire risk assessments and other safety consultancy services across the UK.

The company aims to support businesses in maintaining compliance with fire safety regulations.

Company welcomes new appointment

Operations manager Zeynep Guzelkasap said: “Julian is a fantastic addition to the team.

“He is very skilled and experienced and we are delighted to have him on board.

“We’ll all be looking out for him in the next season of Clarkson’s Farm too and look forward to supporting him with these high profile clients.”

Acorn Safety Services hires fire safety expert Julian Dean: Summary

Acorn Safety Services has appointed Julian Dean as its new fire safety manager.

Dean has 15 years of experience in the industry and has conducted fire risk assessments for businesses, sports facilities, and well-known figures, including Jeremy Clarkson and James May.

Dean previously featured in Clarkson’s Farm while carrying out a fire risk assessment at Diddly Squat Farm Shop.

He has also assessed Clarkson’s pub, The Farmer’s Dog, and May’s hotel, The Royal Oak.

He is expected to appear in series four of the show, which will be released in May.

Dean expressed enthusiasm about joining Acorn Safety Services after working independently.

The company’s operations manager, Zeynep Guzelkasap, welcomed him to the team, highlighting his experience and expertise.

Acorn Safety Services provides fire risk assessments and consultancy across the UK.