CTEH announces promotions in toxicology and industrial hygiene

by Featured NewsPeople

Five team members elevated to principal roles

CTEH has announced the promotion of five team members to principal roles within its toxicology and industrial hygiene divisions.

The company has named Chris Kuhlman, PhD, CIH, DABT, as principal toxicologist; Cole Ledbetter, CIH, CSP, as principal industrial hygienist; Tami McMullin, PhD, as principal toxicologist; Pablo Sanchez Soria, PhD, CIH, as principal toxicologist; and Shawn Wnek, PhD, CIH, DABT, as principal toxicologist.

Chase Selby, president of CTEH, said: “These appointments reflect the unparalleled dedication and expertise of our team members, as well as the significant value they bring to our clients and communities we serve.

“In their roles as principals, they will continue to guide our teams and provide innovative, data-driven solutions to the challenges our clients face.”

Leadership appointments across multiple locations

The newly promoted principals are based in different regions across the United States.

Chris Kuhlman, PhD, CIH, DABT, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, serves as director of CTEH’s emergency response sciences program.

He has expertise in occupational and environmental toxicology, industrial hygiene, and human health risk assessment.

Cole Ledbetter, CIH, CSP, also based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has more than 19 years of experience in industrial hygiene and serves as a director of industrial hygiene services.

Tami McMullin, PhD, based in Golden, Colorado, specializes in public health, regulatory toxicology, and risk assessment.

She also serves as director of applied public health.

Expertise in toxicology and industrial hygiene

Each of the promoted individuals brings extensive experience in their respective fields.

Pablo Sanchez Soria, PhD, CIH, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has expertise in human and environmental toxicology, emergency response toxicology, and complex industrial hygiene challenges.

He also serves as a director of health sciences.

Shawn Wnek, PhD, CIH, DABT, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has over 15 years of experience in risk assessment, chemical emergency response, and toxicology.

He also serves as a director of health sciences.

Recognition of contributions and future impact

CTEH leadership acknowledged the contributions of the promoted team members and their ongoing role in advancing the company’s mission.

Dr. Glenn Millner, co-founder and principal at CTEH, said: “Each of these individuals exemplifies the core values of CTEH: scientific excellence, integrity, and collaboration.

“I have the utmost confidence in each of these principals that they will carry on CTEH’s legacy.

“Their leadership will help propel our company forward as we continue to expand our impact worldwide.”

CTEH announces promotions in toxicology and industrial hygiene: Summary

CTEH has promoted five professionals to principal roles in its toxicology and industrial hygiene divisions.

Chris Kuhlman, PhD, CIH, DABT; Cole Ledbetter, CIH, CSP; Tami McMullin, PhD; Pablo Sanchez Soria, PhD, CIH; and Shawn Wnek, PhD, CIH, DABT, have taken on leadership positions within the organisation.

The appointments span multiple locations, with team members based in Arkansas and Colorado.

Their areas of expertise include occupational and environmental toxicology, industrial hygiene, public health, and risk assessment.

CTEH leadership stated that these promotions reflect the expertise and contributions of the individuals and their role in supporting the company’s scientific and health-related services.

Amthal appoints Richard Parker as Group Head of Sales to lead sales operations

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeople

Richard Parker joins Amthal as Group Head of Sales

Amthal Group Companies has appointed Richard Parker as its new Group Head of Sales.

Parker brings over 30 years of experience in the fire and security sector, having held senior sales leadership roles at Chubb Fire & Security and Walker Fire UK Ltd.

In his new position, he will oversee Amthal’s sales operations, focusing on business development, client relationships, and revenue growth.

According to Amthal, Parker’s appointment aligns with the company’s growth strategy in the fire and security sector.

Extensive experience in fire and security sales

Before joining Amthal, Parker was Group Sales Manager UK at Walker Fire UK Ltd., where he led sales teams and contributed to business expansion across multiple sectors.

He previously spent three decades at Chubb Fire & Security in senior leadership roles, including Sales Director and National Accounts Sales Manager.

His responsibilities included managing multi-disciplined teams, implementing strategic sales initiatives, and exceeding revenue targets.

Focus on sales strategy and client relationships

Parker stated: “Joining Amthal presents a great opportunity to apply my experience in sales leadership and business development in an ambitious and growing organisation.

“My focus will be on aligning the sales strategy with the company’s vision, developing long-term customer relationships, and ensuring our team delivers outstanding service and solutions.”

Amthal confirmed that Parker’s leadership will contribute to its long-term growth strategy by strengthening customer engagement and enhancing service delivery.

Company leadership welcomes new appointment

Amthal Group Companies’ CEO Jamie Allam commented: “Richard’s experience and leadership in sales strategy align well with Amthal’s growth objectives.

“We look forward to his contributions in enhancing our sales operations and driving sustainable success for the company.”

The company stated that Parker’s appointment reflects its commitment to expanding its presence in the UK’s fire and security sector.

Amthal appoints Richard Parker as Group Head of Sales to lead sales operations: Summary

Amthal Group Companies has appointed Richard Parker as its new Group Head of Sales.

Parker brings over three decades of experience in the fire and security industry, having held senior leadership roles at Chubb Fire & Security and Walker Fire UK Ltd.

His responsibilities at Amthal will include overseeing sales operations, driving business growth, and strengthening client relationships.

Parker highlighted his commitment to aligning sales strategy with the company’s vision and ensuring strong customer engagement.

Amthal CEO Jamie Allam welcomed Parker’s appointment, stating that his leadership aligns with the company’s expansion plans.

The company views the new hire as part of its strategy to enhance its position in the UK’s fire and security sector.

CTEH promote Chase Selby to President

by Featured NewsPeople

CTEH has announced the promotion of Chase Selby to President. Since joining CTEH in 2006, Chase Selby has worked across numerous areas of the business, most recently serving as Senior Vice President where he played a role in advancing CTEH’s capabilities and expanding its service offerings.

With experience in industrial hygiene, emergency response and environmental health and safety, Selby specializes in tackling complex projects, from large-scale emergency responses to subsequent disaster recovery construction management efforts.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Central Arkansas and numerous industry certifications.

In his new role, Selby will oversee the company’s strategic growth, finances and operations, continuing CTEH’s commitment to providing science-based solutions for clients worldwide.

President and CEO, Montrose Environmental Group, Vijay Manthripragada’s statement

Vijay Manthripragada, President and CEO of Montrose Enviromental Group, parent company of CTEH said: “For nearly two decades, Chase has been an integral part of CTEH, demonstrating exceptional leadership and expertise.

“As president, he will continue to drive innovation, operational excellence and client-focused solutions.

“His deep understanding of the business and industry make him the ideal person to guide the CTEH team into the future.”

President, CTEH, Chase Selby’s statement

Chase Selby, the newly announced President said of his promotion: “I am honoured to step into this new role and continue working alongside our talented team to deliver high-quality services that protect people, communities and the environment.”

“CTEH has built a strong reputation for scientific integrity and rapid response and I look forward to leading our efforts to further that legacy.”

Chase Selby announced as CTEH’s new President: Summary

Former Senior Vice President Chase Selby has been promoted to CTEH’s President. Selby brings to the role experience in industrial hygiene, emergency response and environmental health and safety.

The new President called the appointment an honour, saying that he looks forward to continue working alongside CTEH’s talented team.

Zelim appoints Doug Baxter as new Chairman

by Featured NewsPeople

Zelim, the Edinburgh-based safety and survival systems innovator, has appointed Doug Baxter as its new Chairman.

Baxter, who brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience in the marine, energy, aerospace and defence industries, replaces current Chair Doug Duguid, who will remain on the Zelim Board as Investor Director.

Current Chair, Zelim, Doug Dubuid’s statement

Doug Duguid, current Chair of Zelim said: “We are delighted Doug has accepted the role as Zelim’s new Chair.

“The last few years have been hugely rewarding as Chairman of the Board at Zelim, seeing the business grow from a group of people with a good idea to selling market leading products globally has been an incredible journey.

“I’m looking forward to working with Doug and continuing to support Sam and the team in my role as Investor Director, as we scale the business.”

Founder and CEO, Zelim, Sam Mayall’s statement

Sam Mayall, Zelim’s founder and CEO, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Doug Baxter to the Zelim team as our new Chairman.

“Doug’s industry expertise and track record in growing successful international businesses will be invaluable as we progress from the research and development phase to accelerate the commercialisation of our cutting-edge technologies globally.”

Chairman, Zelim, Doug Baxter’s statement

New Chairman of Zelim, Doug Baxter commented: “Zelim has created new technologies that address the safety challenges across myriad industries in a way that no other companies currently do.”

“The next phase of our growth journey is about educating these markets, driving adoption and securing a dominant position across multiple geographies for products that save lives.

“My role as Chairman will be to help the company capitalise on its game-changing innovations and support the executive team in strategy, execution, and investor relations.”

Doug Baxter announced as Zelim’s new Chairman: Summary

Zelim has announced that Doug Baxter has been appointed as its new Chairman. Baxter brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience to the role.

Sam Mayall, Zelim’s Founder and CEO said they are thrilled to welcome Doug to the team.

Johnson Controls appoints Joakim Weidemanis as CEO

by Featured NewsPeople

Leadership transition at Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls has announced that Joakim Weidemanis will take over as Chief Executive Officer on 12 March 2025 following the company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

Weidemanis will succeed George R. Oliver, who will remain as Non-Executive Chairman of the Board until 31 July 2025.

At that point, Mark P. Vergnano, a member of the Johnson Controls Board since 2016, will assume the position of Chairman.

Oliver will continue as an advisor to the company until 31 December 2025 to support the leadership transition.

According to Johnson Controls, Weidemanis brings extensive experience in leading global technology-driven businesses, having spent 13 years at Danaher Corporation in executive roles.

Board perspectives on the leadership change

Jürgen Tinggren, lead independent director of the Johnson Controls Board, stated that the selection of Weidemanis aligns with the company’s long-term strategy: “The Board identified Joakim as uniquely suited to lead Johnson Controls during its next chapter of growth as a pure-play provider of comprehensive solutions for commercial buildings.”

Tinggren added that Oliver’s leadership positioned the company for future opportunities: “As we have made substantial progress in our transformation, George has set the stage for Johnson Controls to capitalise on the opportunities ahead.”

Oliver, who has led the company for eight years, expressed confidence in the transition, stating that Johnson Controls has become “a simpler, more profitable and faster-growing company” under his tenure.

Weidemanis’ experience and outlook

Weidemanis most recently served as Executive Vice President, Diagnostics and China at Danaher Corporation.

He was responsible for an approximately $15 billion group comprising eight global technology businesses.

Over his 30-year career, Weidemanis has also held leadership positions at Mettler Toledo and ABB, gaining experience in the United States, Europe, and Asia.

On his new role, Weidemanis said: “I am energized by its mission-driven culture and strong 140-year legacy of developing market-leading technology and solutions that enable customers to manage their facilities in a smarter, more sustainable and more productive way.”

Financial outlook and Board leadership changes

In a separate announcement, Johnson Controls reported fiscal first quarter 2025 earnings results and issued financial guidance for the second quarter and full year.

Additionally, the company confirmed that Mark P. Vergnano will become Chairman of the Board after Oliver steps down from the role in July 2025.

Vergnano has held leadership positions at Chemours and DuPont and serves as a director at Waters Corporation.

Johnson Controls appoints Joakim Weidemanis as CEO: Summary

Johnson Controls has appointed Joakim Weidemanis as CEO, effective 12 March 2025, following the company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

He will succeed George R. Oliver, who will remain Non-Executive Chairman until 31 July 2025, before being succeeded by Mark P. Vergnano.

Weidemanis has extensive experience in global technology businesses, having served as Executive Vice President at Danaher Corporation.

He has also held leadership positions at Mettler Toledo and ABB.

Jürgen Tinggren, lead independent director of the Johnson Controls Board, stated that Weidemanis is well-suited to lead the company’s next phase of growth.

Oliver will continue as an advisor until 31 December 2025.

Johnson Controls also announced fiscal first quarter 2025 earnings results and issued updated financial guidance.

The company confirmed that Vergnano will assume the role of Chairman later in the year.

NFPA join ‘Billion Readiness Initiative’ led by Dubai Civil Defense

by Breaking NewsPeople

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced that it will be an active member and contribute to the “Billion Readiness Initiative” led by Dubai Civil Defense.

This global initiative seeks to enhance fire safety awareness and reduce fire-related incidents worldwide. It aims to educate and train 1 billion people across the globe from 2025 to 2027, encouraging communities to respond effectively and safely to fire emergencies.

A total of 34 countries and 18 major firefighting organisations, including the NFPA, are involved in the effort.

Director, International Business Development, MENA, NFPA, Dana Kamal’s statement

Dana Kamal, Director, International Business Development, MENA, NFPA said: “As a global leader in fire and life safety, NFPA is proud to be part of the Billion Readiness Initiative, the largest of its kind. We are excited to share our expertise to help raise fire safety awareness worldwide.

“Working alongside Dubai Civil Defense, our goal is to use our knowledge, information and expertise to create a safer, more resilient future. We achieve this by empowering individuals with the resources and tools they need to prevent fires and protect lives on an unprecedented scale.”

Collaboration and communication

As part of this initiative, NFPA will continue to collaborate and communicate with governments and regulatory bodies throughout the region to promote its codes and standards, encouraging their use and effective implementation through workshops and training sessions aimed at reducing fire-related incidents and the emissions that they cause.

It will also support countries in developing policies that align with the campaign’s objectives while addressing emerging risks and technological advancements.

In addition to policy adoption, NFPA will encourage subject matter experts to stay updated with code requirements and technical developments in their fields.

In addition, NFPA is also a member of the World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance (WFERA), launched at COP28, which aims to reduce global fire-related emissions by 80% by 2050.

This initiative unites countries and firefighting organizations in a global effort to tackle the environmental impact of fires and improve fire safety worldwide.

`Billion Readiness Initiative’ joined by NFPA: Summary

The NFPA has joined Dubai Civil Defense’s `Billion Readiness Initiative’, a global initiative designed to promote fire safety awareness and reduce fire-related incidents worldwide.

Dana Kamal, Director, International Business Development, MENA, NFPA said the goal is to use knowledge, information and expertise to create a safer, more resilient future.

London Fire Brigade discuss fires in two separate homes due to e-bike and e-scooter

by Featured NewsPeople

There has been two fires less than 24 hours apart involving an e-bike and an e-scooter, caused by lithium battery failures. The e-bike had been converted from a pedal bike and was charging using a generic charger.

The London Fire Brigade‘s Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Richard Field said: “Both of these fires were caused by catastrophic battery failures. When these batteries fail, they can cause ferocious fires, and the consequences can be devastating.”

Barlow Road fire

The first fire happened when the battery on a charging e-scooter burst into flames at a house on Barlow Road in West Hampstead, leading to the death of a dog inside the property.

The fire quickly spread across the ground floor and up the stairs and eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters were dispatched to put out the blaze.

Bridlepath Way fire

The second fire occurred when the battery pack on a second-hand converted e-bike at a house on Bridlepath Way in Feltham caught alight.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were sent to the scene but the fire had already spread through much of the property once firefighters arrived.

Four people left the house before firefighters arrived, including one via a window, with two of the occupants taken to hospital.

Meanwhile, crews were able to rescue two dogs trapped in a room. A third dog that was inside the property was then discovered deceased.

The incidents reiterate why the Brigade has been running its #ChargeSafe campaign, with e-bikes and e-scooters becoming one of the capital’s fastest-growing fire risks.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, London Fire Brigade, Richard Field’s statement

Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Richard Field, said: “We urge people who own these devices to follow the safety advice that will help to protect those around them and their properties.”

“E-bikes and e-scooters are a green and sustainable way to travel around our city. However, they can pose a significant fire risk, if not properly cared for, this is particularly true for the batteries used to power them which have become one of London’s fastest-growing fire risks.

“From our investigations, we know many of the fires we’ve attended have involved second-hand vehicles or a bike that was been modified using parts bought online.

“At this time, there is not the same level of regulation of products for e-bikes and e-scooters sold via online marketplaces or auction sites when compared to high street shops, so we can’t be confident that products meet the correct safety standard.”

Lithium batteries cause two separate fires in London homes: Summary

The London Fire Brigade has spoken out about two seperate fires in less than 24 hours, both caused by lithium batteries in both an e-scooter and e-bike.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Richard Field said that e-bikes and e-scooters pose a significant fire risk is not properly cared for.

2025 Western Australia Fire and Emergency Services Award open nominations

by Featured NewsPeople

Western Australians are being urged to reward emergency services volunteers and staff throughout the State by nominating them in the 2025 Western Australian Fire and Emergency Services (WAFES) Awards.

The annual WAFES Awards celebrate the achievements of emergency services personnel who have made a significant contribution and demonstrated a high level of commitment in the past 12 months.

Fifteen awards are up for grabs in three categories; individual, team and young person. These cover Marine Rescue, State Emergency Service, Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services, Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services, Bush Fire Brigade, career firefighters and Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) corporate staff and operational personnel.

Eligibility for the Young Person Awards, previously known as the Youth Awards, has changed to volunteers aged 18 to 28.

Last year’s winners included gongs for successful ocean rescues in pitch darkness and after a boat was damaged by a shark, strenuous outback rescues at Karijini National Park navigating cliffs and a death adder, and volunteers responding to life-threatening bushfires.

DFES volunteer and career personnel responded to 33,949 incidents in 2024 including 5,489 bushfires, 1,344 structure fires, 3,000 road crashes, 1,112 hazardous materials incidents, 2,371 rescues and 296 searches.

Emergency Services Minister, Stephen Dawson’s statement

Stephen Dawson, Emergency Services Minister said: “Over the past year our volunteers, career firefighters and DFES staff have once again faced incredible challenges, responding day and night to a range of incidents including bushfires, storms, cyclones, floods and land and sea search rescue operations.

“They do this without hesitation, selflessly putting themselves at risk to serve their community. These awards are about bringing their stories to light.

“These are the people who help us prepare for and withstand disasters and they are the people we turn to when rebuilding our communities.

“Nominating a local emergency services superstar in your area is another way to say thanks to the 26,000 volunteers and around 1,800 DFES staff who consistently step up when they’re needed most.”

Western Australians urged to nominate emergency service heroes: Summary

Nominations have opened for the 2025 Western Australian Fire and Emergency Services Awards. Emergency Services Minister, Stephen Dawson said that by nomination a local emergency services worker in your area you are saying thank you to the staff who consistently step up when they’re needed.

OHEAP announces its membership in the Reset Group

by Featured NewsPeople

OHEAP has announced its membership in the Reset Group, who are a provider of compliance and contractor management solutions.

OHEAP Fire and Security has been a name in fire protection and security for over 60 years, specialising in a wide array of services ranging from fire extinguisher servicing and risk assessments to security technology.

By scanning a Reset card, other companies will instantly verify that OHEAP employees and contractors have the necessary skills and qualifications to complete work on-site, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork.

With Reset’s advanced site login system, contractors can easily check in and out. The system checks for expired licenses, permits to work and DBS checks ensuring full compliance with HSE regulations.

OHEAP customers can expect benefits from this partnership with Reset, previously a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, OHEAP now offer a streamlined solution designed to ensure that compliance and training is continuously met.

OHEAP become Reset member: Summary

OHEAP Fire and Security has announced its membership in the Reset Group. By scanning a Reset card, OHEAP will become verified to other companies that their employees and contractors have the skills and qualifications to complete on-site work.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service establish a plan for positive culture

by Featured NewsPeople

A year on from the Fenella Morris KC review into the culture at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS), the service has released its revised culture statement, aligning with its ambitions and aspirations for the future.

Culture statement

With the communities of South Wales at its heart, the culture statement is the service’s promise to ‘[create] a safe, modern fire and rescue service in South Wales and to [ensure] everyone is treated with dignity and respect, free from discrimination, bullying, harassment and inappropriate behaviours.

We make this commitment to our staff, our communities and the partners and stakeholders we work with every day’.

Preceded by an outline for new expectations around behaviours and ways of working, the statement is reinforced by pledges from senior leaders from the service, including the Welsh Government appointed Commissioners, the Senior Leadership Team, and Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan, who joined SWFRS in November.

The Chief promised to ‘ensure transparency, fairness, and a clear strategy to guide us forward’ as well as to ‘celebrate success, recognise achievements, and make sure that all voices across the organisation are heard’.

The service has been on a journey of change since the culture review was published in January 2023, which outlined 82 recommendations for improvement. As part of this cultural overhaul, the new position of Director for Change and Transformation was created within the service’s Executive Leadership Team.

Director of Strategic Change and Transformation, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Dominic Mika’s statement

Dominic Mika, who is leading on Step Forward: A Programme for Transformation and Change, promised that South Wales FRS will provide a service to the public and communities which is founded on ‘operational excellence’.

Dominic Mika commented: “The service has also been working on a review of our values, our mission and our vision for the future recently, with managers engaging 160 teams across the service for their input.

This collaboration is part of a new way of working for us – with transparency and communication at the core – ensuring that every single member of the service understands the part they play, how they can get involved, and is part of the journey to arrive at an improved destination together.”

Culture statement announced by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service: Summary

South Wales Fire and Rescue has announced plans to establish their positive culture. The Director of Strategic Change and Transformation, Dominic Mika said that the service has been working on a review of their values, mission and vision.