FBU General Secretary calls for commitment to workers rights

by Featured NewsFire Brigades UnionPeople

The newly elected Fire Brigades Union General Secretary, Steve Wright has warned Rachel Reeves against `invoking Margaret Thatcher‘, calling for the government to deliver manifesto commitments to workers’ rights in full.

The FBU welcomes the Chancellor’s assurance that there will be no scaling back of the Labour government’s employment rights legislation.

General Secretary, Fire Brigades Union, Steve Wright’s statement

Steve Wright said: “It was concerning to see the Prime Minister use a media intervention about the government’s growth plans to invoke the policies of the Thatcher government.

“The FBU was at the forefront of the fight back against Thatcher’s attacks on workers’ rights and jobs, all of which were continued by successive Tory governments up until and including that led by Rishi Sunak.

“The FBU believe that the Labour government’s Employment Rights Bill is critical to growing the economy, as a properly paid workforce that is better protected against unfair dismissal and has more secure employment is essential to delivering greater growth.

“With the Bill due to pass through parliament in a matter of weeks, the government must ensure the legislation on workers’ rights is in place much faster than the planned timeframe of autumn 2026.

“The ban on exploitative zero-hour contacts and additional protection against unfair dismissal must come into force by this summer at the very latest.

“However, the full delivery of the Labour manifesto commitment on workers’ rights must be reflected in substantial pay rises for firefighters and all other workers.

“The statutory living wage must also be increased to well over £15 per hour by the time the employment rights bill becomes law.

“The Labour government will only achieve its ambitious growth plans if it acts swiftly to place more money in the pockets of workers in secure jobs.”

FBU’s General Secretary has warned government against Thatcher behaviour: Summary

Newly elected Fire Brigades Union General Secretary, Steve Wright has stated that the FBU believe the Labour government’s Employment Rights Bill is critical to growing the economy.

SHIELD backed by University of Strathclyde

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

The University of Strathclyde is encouraging ship operators, safety professionals and accident investigators to use the Safety Human Incident & Error Learning Database (SHIELD) to better understand the underlying root cause of human-factor related issues in maritime incidents.

SHIELD, developed by a consortium of partners across the aviation and maritime spheres as part of the European Union’s SAFEMODE project, was launched in 2022 and is now being used by major cruise lines, a UK-based ferry operator, safety agencies in Europe and Asia and a number of accident investigation boards.

University of Strathclyde Maritime Human Factors Centre, Head, Dr Rafet Emek Kurt’s statement

Dr Rafet Emek Kurt, the Head of the University’s Maritime Human Factors Centre spoke on his belief that more data is required if SHIELD is to have a material benefit on future maritime safety and policy.

Dr Kurt said: “Human factors have long been recognized as a critical element in shipping safety, yet whenever there is an accident, in reaction to the lessons learnt we continue to overload the seafarer with more safety procedures, more checklists, more training.

“This is largely ineffective in reducing human factor incidents and increases the cognitive load on the seafarer. We need to address the root cause of an accident to have any meaningful impact.”

Kurt said that the SHIELD platform provides invaluable feedback to shipmanagers, policymakers, accident investigators and ship and system builders to better quantify the human components in safety risk models, resulting in positive changes in ship design, operations and rules.

“So far, in the absence of high-quality data, the maritime sector has failed to include human factor considerations in critical decision making. As a result, envisaged safety improvements from the sector have been ineffective, with accidents continuing to occur at a steady rate after.”

SHIELD’S impact

Dr Kurt emphasised that through industry-wide collaboration and use of SHIELD, stakeholders can better understand underlying human factor contributors. The data can also serve to develop new accident and risk models as well as tailor research to address any shortcomings.

The SHIELD taxonomy assesses input data against a range of extenuating factors affecting human performance, such as workload, situation awareness, stress and fatigue, human system interfaces, and teamwork.

But, it goes further by providing insight into how organisational and leadership structures, strategies, cultures and socioeconomics play a part.

“SHIELD represents a paradigm shift in how the shipping industry approaches safety,” said Kurt. “By empowering shipowners to deeply analyse their accident data, we can move beyond the traditional ‘human error’ narrative and uncover the true drivers of incidents. This knowledge is invaluable in creating a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable maritime sector.”

The University of Strathclyde support use of SHIELD: Summary

Dr Rafet Emek Kurt, the Head of the University’s Maritime Human Factors Centre has voiced support for the Safety Human Incident & Error Learning Database (SHIELD).

Dr Kurt said SHIELD represents a paradigm shift in how the shipping industry approaches safety.

FCIA and FPA Australia sign MoU

by Featured NewsPeople

The Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA) and the Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster collaboration and enhance fire safety practices in Australia.

This partnership leverages the expertise and resources of both organisations through key areas of cooperation.

Knowledge sharing

This partnership facilitates the exchange of information, best practices, and technical expertise related to passive fire protection, as well as enables FPA Australia to utilise FCIA’s extensive knowledge and resources in passive fire protection for life and safety applications within the Australian market.

Joint educational initiatives

The collaboration develops and delivers joint educational programs, workshops, and seminars for industry professionals and establishes collaborative framework for accessing and utilising both organisations’ comprehensive educational materials.

Membership growth

The alliance cultivates and implements collaborative membership growth strategies to attract and retain members within both organisations.

Advocacy and Policy Development

Through cooperative effort, both organisations will work together to advocate for policies and regulations that support and enhance fire safety within Australia.

Director International Initiatives, FCIA, Abhishek Chhabra’s statement

Abhishek Chhabra, Director International Initiatives, FCIA said: “This partnership marks a significant step forward in advancing Passive Fire protection to enable fire safety in Australia.

“By combining the strengths of FCIA and FPA Australia, we can create a better skilled fire protection industry and improve installed firestop and effective compartmentation systems in buildings, ultimately enhancing the safety of people and property across the nation.”

CEO, Fire Protection Association of Australia, John Collie’s statement

Fire Protection Association of Australia CEO, John Collie, said: “Protecting people, property and the environment from the impacts of fire is our number one priority.”

“By working in partnership with FCIA this will boost both organisations and strengthen their commitment to delivering best practice fire safety solutions.”

MoU between FCIA and FPA Australia signed: Summary

The Firestop Contractors International Association and the Fire Protection Association Australia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, cementing their collaboration.

FCIA’s Director International Initiatives said that the partnership marks a significant step forward.

NEMA wins NIPR’s Outstanding Crisis Communication in Government Award

by Featured NewsPeople

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Lagos State Chapter has recognised the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) with the award of most Outstanding Crisis Communication in Government for the Agency’s flood preparedness and Response Campaign in 2024.

The award was presented by Chairman of the State Chapter of NIPR, Comfort Obot Nwankwo, to the Director General NEMA, Zubaida Umar, in Abuja.

Chairman of the State Chapter of NIPR, Comfort Obot Nwankwo’s statement

The NIPR Chairman, Comfort Obot Nwankwo said: “The NEMA campaign stood out for its innovative and effective communication strategies, utilizing digital platforms, public engagement, and timely updates to educate the public and coordinate responses during Nigeria’s annual flood seasons.”

Director General Nema, Zubaida Umar

Responding, the Director General NEMA, Zubaida Umar, appreciated the NIPR for the award and dedicated it to staff of the Agency across the country for their commitment to work.

NEMA given NIPR award: Summary

NEMA has been awarded by the NIPR for having an Outstanding Crisis Communication in Government for the Agency’s flood preparedness and Response Campaign in 2024.

Howler launch CPD fire safety sessions

by Featured NewsPeople

Howler, provider of temporary fire safety solutions, has announced the launch of their accredited CPD fire safety learning sessions for professionals in the construction industry.

These sessions aim to address knowledge gaps in fire safety, helping teams safeguard projects, comply with regulations and enhance their professional development.

Statistics reveal

According to recent data, the construction industry reports an average of one fire per day on UK sites.  When Howler ran a survey with teams 81% of professionals failed to answer hot works-related safety questions correctly.

These alarming statistics underscore the need for accessible, high-quality training to empower teams and minimise risks.

Associate Director, Howler, Martin Woodfield’s statement

Martin Woodfield, Associate Director at Howler said: “Our mission is about driving fire safety excellence across the construction industry.

“By offering accredited CPD sessions, we aim to ensure that fire safety isn’t just a compliance checkbox but a cornerstone of every construction project.”

Features of the fire safety training

There are a range of sessions available each taking around 30-minutes to deliver.  They are available virtually via Teams or face-to-face and provide practical, actionable insights into:

  • Commonly overlooked areas of the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP)
  • Key updates to the JCoP
  • Fire safety in temporary accommodation
  • Lithium battery risks and mitigation strategies
  • Maintaining safe escape routes
  • Best practices for managing and performing hot works

The training is accredited by the CPD Certification Service, ensuring participants earn credits towards their professional learning objectives while enhancing their knowledge of essential safety protocols.

CPD fire safety learning sessions launched by Howler: Summary

Howler’s training resources has been accredited by the CPD Certification Service. These sessions are for professionals in the construction industry. Howler’s Associate Director said the accreditation proves that fire safety isn’t just a compliance checkbox but a cornerstone of every construction project.

Quelfire’s technical solutions ensure compliance at Wales’ largest health and research hub

by Featured NewsPeople

Pentre Awel is the first development of its scope and size in Wales and one of the highest-valued schemes Carmarthenshire County Council has undertaken. This £84 million project covers 83 acres and has created an estimated 1,800 jobs.

The scheme provides medical research and health care, encouraging individuals to lead active lifestyles. Pentre Awel also includes integrated care and physical rehabilitation facilities and hopes to boost the local economy by £467 million over the next 15 years.

As the chosen passive fire protection system manufacturer, Quelfire worked alongside the main contractor, Bouygues Construction Ltd and all the relevant parties to deliver this project.

The main objective was to incorporate an early engagement approach to design and build Pentre Awel around the tested details available, creating safe and compliant buildings.

Challenges of the project

As this was one of Bouygues UK’s first early engagement projects utilising a new approach and systems, the initial cooperation of relevant parties proved to be the main challenge.

This later led to the coordination of service spacings being problematic due to the large number of services used on the project, steel beams and restricted space available.

Solutions to the issue

Bouygues UK’s initiative to implement a new system called Morta ensured Bouygues completed work in line with the Building Safety Act and built the Golden Thread of Information to hand over to the building owner on completion of the project. It also guaranteed they met Building Regulation 38 requirements.

The Morta system ensured that all service penetrations were covered. If critical information was not provided, the schedule would go back to the responsible person to collate and send over.

The idea of a clear ‘Builder’s Work in Connection’ (BWIC) opening schedule is to make sure all parties work together, take responsibility, and understand what is required.

To provide the most relevant firestopping tested solutions from Quelfire’s extensive library, Quelfire required a detailed schedule with specific information about the project’s service penetration applications.

This included information about the wall or floor construction, the required fire rating, and the dimensions of structural openings.

Additionally, they needed to know if the application involved a head-of-wall scenario, whether any movement was required, and details about the services – such as their type, material, size, and any insulation requirements, including thickness.

However, receiving the information and getting everyone on the same page proved to be quite challenging as, for many, this was a brand-new approach to building construction. Luckily, Pentre Awel discussions began in 2022, leading to the first early engagement meeting in January 2023.

After this, Quelfire had regular project meetings and workshops to discuss the firestopping package, BWIC openings and any non-standard details. This ensured all parties were on the same page and could provide the correct information, minimising confusion.

Senior BIM Coordinator, Bouygues, Tom Marsh’s statement

Tom Marsh, Senior BIM Coordinator at Bouygues, stated: “Quelfire have been very proactive in supporting our Golden Thread initiative via our Information Management platforms.

They have also provided a lot of technical insight which we have used to improve on Pentre Awel processes, as well as other projects moving forward.”

Design Manager, Bouygues, Matthew John’s statement

Matthew John, Design Manager at Bouygues, said: “Quelfire’s Technical Manager, Alec, has supported the Pentre Awel design team throughout the detailed design stage, giving pragmatic guidance on tested passive fire stopping solutions.

“This support has been invaluable in assisting Bouygues in delivering our Golden Thread builders work approval process.”

Quelfire provide technical solutions to Wales research and health hub: Summary

Pentre Awel is the first development of its size in Wales and it hopes to boost the local economy by £467 million over the next 15 years. Quelfire worked alongside Bouygues Construction Ltd to complete the project.

Bouygues Design Manager said that the support and advice from Quelfire has been invaluable.

Fire & Gas Detection Technologies Inc. launch in the Middle East

by Featured NewsMiddle East - ProductsPeople

2025 marks the official launch of FGD’s products in the Middle East with a newly opened branch office in the UAE to better serve key clients in the region and across the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

Fire & Gas Detection Technologies Inc. (FGD) tackles the daily challenges that affect productivity, safety and profitability by offering solutions that minimise false alarms. FGD specialises in flame detection equipment designed to enhance workplace safety in the event of accidents and process failures.

FGD’s key markets include oil and gas, energy transition (including BESS sites and hydrogen) and waste recycling and energy facilities. Since its establishment in 2017, FGD’s team of experienced engineers has developed a range of flame detectors, including the FlameSpec series.

Since 2019 and 2020, FGD has been supplying products to customers in the Americas and Europe, respectively.

Global expansion and new branch office in the UAE

The branch, offering customer service, technical and sales support, is poised to meet the growing demand for advanced fire and gas detection technologies. Iain Evans, who has been promoted to President of FGD Middle East, will lead a team to fulfil the needs of customers across the region.

Innovative flame detection technology

One of the company’s standout offerings is its advanced flame detection technology, which includes both IR3 and UV-IR detectors. These technologies are well known in the Middle East, but FGD has significantly improved response times and false alarm rejection.

These products were created by the same engineers responsible for developing the original IR3 and UV-IR technologies still in use today. FGD’s core goal is to meet the industry’s ongoing need for safer and more reliable detection systems.

False alarms remain the most frequent issue for users of IR3 and UV-IR technology and these advancements address that challenge head-on with some truly innovative solutions, including FlameSpec CO2L, FlameSpec Blade and FlameSpec StretcH2.

With these enhancements, FGD’s FlameSpec family of detectors provides a significant leap forward in flame detection technology.

These products serve both traditional oil and gas industries and the emerging energy transition sectors, offering specialised solutions for hydrogen flame detection, spark and arc monitoring and avoiding false alarms from hot CO2 exhausts.

Additionally, these detectors can pinpoint the exact location of flames within their field of view.

Integrating video and AI technology for enhanced safety

In addition to these improvements, FGD has integrated video technology into its detection systems. This offers operators an added layer of security and provides them with real-time visual confirmation of any fire alarms.

Typically, security cameras are installed in safe areas such as the perimeter, entry gates and doors, but they rarely cover hazardous areas due to restricted access. However, FGD’s HD detectors allow operators to view these high-risk areas and even employ AI to detect movement, such as people or objects.

Given the vast amount of data operators must process, these devices help reduce information overload, ensuring that quick, informed decisions can be made in the event of an alarm.

FDG expand reach by launching in the Middle East: Summary

Fire & Gas Detection Technologies Inc has announced that they will be launching their services in the Middle East. Since 2019 and 20202, FDG have supplied products in America and Europe.

AESG make three new senior appointments

by Featured NewsPeople

Consultancy firm AESG has made a trio of senior appointments, marking a significant step in its mission to make a strong impact in the UK built environment sector.

Committed to delivering projects that are equally visually striking, safe and environmentally responsible, AESG is made up of a high calibre leadership team and numerous dedicated specialist consultancy teams.

Together, they work across the world on projects in the building, urban planning, infrastructure and strategic advisory sectors.

The business provides expertise in sustainable design and engineering for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire safety solutions, as well as specialist façades, security, acoustics and waste management services. 

Amy Koerbel, AESG, Director of Façades

Amy Koerbel is AESG’s new Director of Façades. With over 25 years of experience in architectural engineering, technical design and strategic leadership, Amy will spearhead AESG’s façade consulting services in the UK and beyond.

Her knowledge and skills will enhance AESG’s capabilities in tackling complex façade projects while contributing to the firm’s growth in the key markets.

Sandra Rubiano, AESG, Associate Director of Façades

Sandra Rubiano joins Amy in the AESG Façades team as Associate Director of Façades. Sandra brings invaluable expertise to enhance AESG’s integrated services for our clients in the UK façade remediation market.

Alongside this she will lead the development of cutting-edge façade engineering solutions, overseeing the successful delivery of AESG’s façade projects to best practice standards, inspiring innovation from within the team and expanding the business’ market presence in the UK.

Elisabeth Montgomerie, AESG, Sustainability Director

Elisabeth Montgomerie has joined the business as Sustainability Director, tasked with creating impactful strategies that achieve transformational sustainable outcomes.

An expert in decarbonisation, biodiversity and social value, Elisabeth’s most recent role was with a global multidisciplinary consultancy where she was Sustainability Lead and Associate Director for Sustainable Building Design.

AESG, Director of Façades, Amy Koerbel’s statement

Amy Koerbel, Director of Façades, said:“ With my technical background in architectural, structural and façade engineering, I’ve always embraced a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to solving challenges – key values AESG shares. 

“In addition to my technical expertise, I’ve had the opportunity to take on significant leadership and management roles, which have been instrumental in shaping how I approach team building and stakeholder engagement and in delivering results that align with both client aspirations and company objectives.

“These experiences will be invaluable as I work to grow AESG’s façade engineering presence in the UK.

“With heightened regulatory requirements and an industry-wide push for sustainable building solutions, it’s an exciting opportunity to contribute to AESG’s vision and help shape the future of façade engineering.”

AESG, Associate Director of Façades, Sandra Rubiano’s statement

Sandra Rubiano, Associate Director of Façades, said: “The UK market presents a wealth of opportunities for AESG, including the imperative to meet increasingly stringent regulatory demands and the exciting advancements in façade technologies.

“I’m particularly excited about retrofit projects; not only does improving energy efficiency and fire performance of existing buildings align with AESG’s expertise and sustainability goals, but these processes also contribute significantly to the UK’s wider carbon and safety agendas – areas where AESG has played a pivotal role.

“Through open communication, actively encouraging knowledge sharing, and promoting a collaborative team environment, I aim to ensure that insights from all disciplines in the business – including sustainability, acoustics, fire engineering and more – are effectively integrated to deliver truly holistic and sustainable façade solutions for our clients.”

AESG, CEO, Saeed Al Abbar’s statement

Saeed Al Abbar, CEO at AESG, said: “In line with the UK government’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, we have made a conscious decision to scale up and enhance our existing provision of sustainability consultancy and building design and engineering expertise in the UK to support existing and future clients better.

“Adding these three remarkable individuals to our team demonstrates the level of conviction behind that choice as they will add an immeasurable amount of gravitas to our offering.

“Collectively, Elisabeth, Amy and Sandra bring a new level of excellence to our business, and their passion to continue driving change in the industry makes them an ideal fit for AESG.

“Their appointments also demonstrate our steps to champion diversity and inclusion in the industry as we believe different ideas, experiences, and viewpoints are integral to success.

“We recognise the true value that women bring to leadership roles in organisations like ours and feel incredibly lucky that a trio with such extraordinary talents are part of our team.”

New female leadership team at AESG: Summary

AES has announced that Amy Koerbel, Sandra Rubiano and Elisabeth Montgomerie will be joining their senior leadership team. Saeed Al Abbar, CEO of AESG said that the appointments demonstrate the companies steps to champion diversity.

Mitsubishi Electric help design new robotic workcell

by Featured NewsPeople

Mitsubishi Electric has helped to deliver a step-change in productivity and quality control for a manufacturer of fire detection and alarm devices.  

In partnership with Maidenhead-based machine builder and systems integrator, Design & Automation Solutions (DAS), the company has contributed to the design of an automated workcell for the assembly of fire alarm box components.  

Features

Programmed by Loop Automation, the system comprises two DAS-built sub-assembly cells used to insert and tighten screws and apply brass inserts into two different prefabricated shells.

A 6-axis Mitsubishi Electric RV-4 robot links both applications, which is responsible for both loading and unloading and pick and place operations.

With a target throughput of 300 parts an hour per function, the new design not only significantly increases the efficiency of the component manufacturing compared to manual assembly, but also improves quality control. 

The solution is also controlled by a Mitsubishi Electric Q Series PLC and features a GOT 2000 HMI operator interface, three iQ-F PLCs as remote IO stations, as well as a CC-Link IE field network. 

Design & Automation Solutions, Director, Mick Stallwood’s statement

Mick Stallwood, Director at DAS, commented: “The initial implementation of the new solution has been a huge success, having allowed the customer to make marked improvements to throughput.

“On top of this, we have received very positive feedback from their operators, who have been impressed by the level of intuitiveness displayed by the system. 

“We’ve been working with Mitsubishi Electric for over 30 years now, and the quality of their products is always excellent. Given the customer is also a prominent Mitsubishi end user themselves, it was a natural fit to partner with them on this project.” 

Mitsubishi Electronics, OEM Business Development Manager, Richard Allen’s statement

Richard Allen, OEM Business Development Manager at Mitsubishi Electric, adds: “Our aim is to help OEMs build the best machines that they can, and DAS and Loop are brilliant examples of machine builders and programmers going above and beyond to unlock new efficiencies for their customers.

“The new system has raised the bar considerably, both from a productivity and quality control perspective, and we’re pleased to hear the impact that it is already having on the customer’s operations. 

“In short, this project truly represents our ecosystem at its very finest, and we’re delighted to have played our part in it.” 

Mitsubishi Electric and Design & Automation Solutions collaborate on automated workcell: Summary

Mitsubishi Electric has collaborated on an automated workcell for the assembly of fire alarm box components alongside Design & Automation Solutions.

Mitsubishi’s OEM Business Development Manager, Richard Allen, said that the new system has raised the bar.

Jason Thelwell joins Fire Industry Association as General Manager in March 2025

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

New general manager Jason Thelwell brings extensive fire safety experience to the FIA

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced that Jason Thelwell will take on the role of General Manager starting 1st March 2025.

As reported by the FIA, Thelwell brings a wealth of experience from his current position as Senior Fire Engineer at Tetra Consulting Ltd.

In this role, Thelwell developed a deep understanding of the fire sector, preparing him for the responsibilities of the General Manager role at the FIA.

He leaves Tetra with positive remarks about his colleagues and the organisation.

Before joining Tetra Consulting, Thelwell served as Chief Fire Officer of Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.

His leadership focused on overseeing the service’s strategic direction, performance, and governance.

He worked to ensure the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective services to protect the public and businesses while promoting a culture of innovation, collaboration, and diversity.

Thelwell’s background and credentials strengthen the FIA’s capabilities

Thelwell’s professional qualifications complement his extensive experience in the fire safety sector.

He is a Fellow of the Institution of Fire Engineers, holds a BSc in Fire Engineering Management, and is a Chartered Manager following the completion of an executive MBA.

These qualifications reflect his technical expertise and commitment to the fire industry, making him a valuable asset to the FIA.

Ian Moore, Chief Executive Officer of the FIA, expressed his enthusiasm about Thelwell’s appointment, stating: “Jason is an exciting addition to our team, and his knowledge and passion for fire safety will be instrumental in our delivery and influence, and I am really looking forward to working with him.”

FIA looks to continued growth with Thelwell’s leadership

According to the FIA, the association has experienced impressive growth in recent years.

This expansion is attributed to its strong training programs, membership base, and technical services.

The addition of Thelwell comes as the FIA continues to enhance its support for its members.

With the upcoming opening of the Centre of Excellence for fire safety in Northwich and the implementation of digital transformation platforms to improve efficiency, the FIA is well-positioned for further expansion and continued leadership in the fire safety industry.

Moore further remarked: “The FIA has had a fantastic few years building its size and reputation with many stakeholders.

“It is the largest and strongest fire trade association in Europe, and we are committed to raising the bar of professionalism in our industry.”

Summary: Fire Industry Association appoints Jason Thelwell as General Manager: Summary

The Fire Industry Association has appointed Jason Thelwell as its new General Manager, starting 1st March 2025.

Thelwell, currently a Senior Fire Engineer at Tetra Consulting Ltd, has significant experience in the fire sector.

He previously served as Chief Fire Officer of Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, where he focused on delivering high-quality services and fostering a culture of innovation and diversity.

The FIA is optimistic that his leadership will further strengthen its mission to improve fire safety standards and support its members.

The association continues to expand its offerings, with new developments such as the Centre of Excellence for fire safety and enhanced digital platforms.