Steve Wright elected as new general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, Matt Wrack out

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

Election results reveal Fire Brigades Union leadership change

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has elected Steve Wright as its new general secretary, following an election held between 10 December 2024 and 14 January 2025.

A total of 8,648 members participated in the election, representing a turnout of 29%.

Wright secured 59% of the vote with 5,188 votes, defeating incumbent Matt Wrack, who received 3,436 votes (41%).

Wright’s term as general secretary begins immediately.

Wright’s extensive career in the FBU and fire service

Steve Wright has been a member of the Fire Brigades Union for over 20 years.

He began his career in 2001 with Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service at the age of 18 before transferring to Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2006.

Within the FBU, Wright served as Vice President since 2023 and represented the Southern region as an Executive Council member.

He first became active in union leadership during the 2002-3 pay campaign as a branch representative.

Incoming general secretary outlines vision for the Union

Steve Wright addressed Union members following his election: “I am deeply honoured to have been elected as general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, and I want to thank all FBU members who participated in this election.”

He committed to working with the Executive Council and union officials on key issues, including pay, pensions, and working conditions.

Wright also highlighted priorities such as campaigning for better investment and national standards in fire and rescue services.

“Our union has a proud history of standing together, and recent campaigns have shown what can be achieved through unity and determination,” Wright said.

Matt Wrack reflects on two decades of leadership

Outgoing general secretary Matt Wrack expressed pride in his tenure, which spanned 20 years and saw eight UK prime ministers in office.

Wrack highlighted achievements under his leadership, including the FBU’s successful campaigns for a 16% pay rise over the last three years, significant maternity pay progress, and securing improvements for retained duty firefighters.

He also underscored the importance of the union’s DECON campaign addressing fire contaminants and the broader fight for equality within the sector.

Reflecting on his departure, Wrack said: “I leave the FBU with my head held high.

“Since the age of 16, I have been an active anti-racist, anti-fascist.

“I became a socialist as a teenager, and I have been a trade unionist all my working life.

“My views and values have not changed, and I will continue that fight.”

Steve Wright becomes Fire Brigades Union general secretary: Summary

Steve Wright has been elected general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, receiving 59% of the vote during an election held between December 2024 and January 2025.

With over two decades of FBU membership and a career spanning Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire fire services, Wright has served as Vice President since 2023.

Outgoing general secretary Matt Wrack reflected on his 20-year tenure, citing achievements in pay negotiations, equality, and safety campaigns.

Wright’s term begins immediately, with priorities including pay, pensions, and improving national standards in fire and rescue services.

BESA names Tony Gilbert as first COO during major strategic changes

by ConstructionFeatured NewsFire EngineeringPeople

BESA announces first Chief Operating Officer

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Tony Gilbert as its first chief operating officer.

According to BESA, Gilbert began his role at the start of 2025 after serving as a consultant to the organisation since last year.

BESA’s chief executive officer, David Frise, said: “Tony brings enormous experience and vision to the Association and has already played a key role in our strategic review and re-organisation.”

Tony Gilbert’s background in management and consultancy

Tony Gilbert previously worked with illumini consulting for 15 years, specialising in organisational change and growth strategies.

His clients included high-profile organisations such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce, BAE, the Ministry of Justice, and the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA).

Before that, he held the role of group technology director at France Telecom – Orange and established his own consultancy in 1993.

Strategic focus of the new role

David Frise commented on the importance of this appointment: “We are delighted that he has now agreed to join us full-time to guide us through the next vital stage as we put our plans into action.”

Tony Gilbert expressed his aspirations: “It has been a real privilege to work closely with the staff and membership of this historic and forward-looking trade body as it re-sets for an exciting and challenging new era in building services technology and practices.”

Challenges and opportunities for the sector

Gilbert highlighted the issues currently facing the sector, including skills shortages, difficult trading conditions, and rapid technological changes.

He added: “Our members and their clients are facing an unprecedented range of challenges, alongside significant business opportunities such as the rapid deployment of digital technology and an urgent drive towards decarbonisation of the built environment.”

“The Association’s leadership has been working flat out to ensure members have the information, tools and support they need to, not just survive, but thrive in this new environment,” Gilbert stated.

BESA names Tony Gilbert as first COO during major strategic changes: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Tony Gilbert as its first chief operating officer, beginning in January 2025.

Gilbert, who previously worked as a consultant for BESA, brings extensive experience in management and organisational change, including roles at illumini consulting and France Telecom – Orange.

The appointment comes as part of BESA’s broader strategic transformation to address challenges such as skills shortages and decarbonisation while leveraging opportunities in digital technology.

BESA’s CEO, David Frise, described Gilbert as a visionary leader who will play a critical role in advancing the Association’s plans.

Gilbert emphasised the importance of supporting members during this period of rapid change, aiming to equip them to thrive in evolving market conditions.

CPD course launched by Bull Products

by Featured NewsPeople

Bull Products, a provider of temporary fire, safety and access control solutions for the construction industry and other applications, has announced the launch of its new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training entitled ‘Construction Site Fire Safety’.

The presentation is designed to support professionals in the construction industry as they navigate the demands of a rapidly changing fire detection and alarm market.

Head of Sales at Bull Products, Carl Leeson’s statement

Carl Leeson, Head of Sales at Bull Products, commented on the launch of the new course, saying it: “Reflects our commitment to fostering lifelong learning. In today’s evolving fire detection and alarm industry, continuous education is essential to remain competitive.

“The CPD course offers participants enhanced knowledge on the latest regulations as well as product solutions, helping them grow within their roles and fulfil crucial professional obligations.”

Features of the course

With an emphasis on practical skills, innovation, and real-world applications, the CPD course is designed to provide attendees with valuable opportunities to stay ahead of emerging trends and best practices.

The course covers the types of wireless fire alarm systems available, wireless system differences, correct location and designs on site, Fire Risk Assessments, the importance of third-party approval and testing frequencies.

Those attending the course will learn how construction site safety, equipment and knowledge can be improved. This will be done by learning about the different systems that are available, where they can be used and the pros and cons of each type of system.

The course will also take a deeper look at the design of a fire detection and alarm system and explain why it is important to use approved fire detection and alarm installation companies to secure full coverage and protection.

Bull Products announce the launch of their new CPD course: Summary

Bull Products has announced the launch of their new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training entitled ‘Construction Site Fire Safety’. This course has been designed to give attendees a greater understanding of the changing fire detection and alarm market.

Jason Hill and Ryan Cleggett take leadership roles in IFE International General Assembly

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringPeople

Leadership appointments announced for International General Assembly

According to the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), Jason Hill has been appointed as the International General Assembly (IGA) Leader.

Jason, who previously served as the IGA Vice-Leader and is the Branch President for New Zealand, will begin his two-year term in January 2025.

The IFE has also announced that Ryan Cleggett, Australian Branch President, has been elected Vice-Leader.

Ryan’s appointment ensures a continued international perspective in the IGA’s activities.

Experienced leadership to guide IGA initiatives

Both Jason and Ryan bring extensive volunteering experience within the IFE.

As members of the Membership and Registration Committee, their leadership is expected to contribute towards achieving the IFE’s objectives.

The IGA Leadership team is positioned to ensure its activities align with the strategic goals of the organisation, supporting IFE members globally.

Acknowledging contributions of outgoing leader

The IFE expressed its gratitude to outgoing IGA Leader, Jake Derrick, for his contributions, particularly in developing the new IGA Terms of Reference.

These terms set a clear direction for the IGA’s future operations.

Jake’s leadership helped establish a framework to guide the IGA’s purpose and improve its connection with members.

Strengthening global connections in the IFE

The appointments of Jason Hill and Ryan Cleggett reflect the IFE’s commitment to fostering international collaboration.

Their leadership is seen as instrumental in enhancing member support and promoting global engagement within the fire engineering community.

The IFE believes this leadership team will play a key role in advancing its mission.

Jason Hill and Ryan Cleggett take leadership roles in IFE International General Assembly: Summary

The Institution of Fire Engineers has announced Jason Hill as the new Leader of the International General Assembly (IGA), with Ryan Cleggett appointed as Vice-Leader.

Jason, currently the New Zealand Branch President, will begin his two-year term in January 2025.

Ryan, Australian Branch President, was elected by his peers to serve alongside Jason.

Both bring substantial IFE volunteering experience and serve on the Membership and Registration Committee.

Their leadership aims to support the IFE’s objectives and enhance global member engagement.

Outgoing Leader Jake Derrick was commended for his role in developing the IGA Terms of Reference.

Cygnus SmartNet-100 installed by Cannon Fire & Security at Charles Pugh Glass

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeople

Cannon Fire & Security has chosen Cygnus‘ EN 54 certified and 100% wireless SmartNet-100 fire detection and alarm system to deliver and install a solution in three days, for vehicle glass replacement company, Charles Pugh Glass.

The need for improvement

Charles Pugh Glass needed to replace its existing 25-year-old fire alarm system and asked Cannon Fire & Security to deliver a new system completed with modern standards. Cannon Fire & Security saw the potential of SmartNet-100 on this project. With 14 engineers now trained through the Cygnus Academy, Cannon Fire & Security are certified installers of the SmartNet system.

Charles Pugh Glass, a wholesaler of replacement vehicle glass, recognised the necessity of upgrading its fire detection and alarm systems following a fire risk assessment. The fire risk assessment revealed that the existing systems in their two buildings were no longer compliant with modern regulations and so they knew they needed to make a change.

SmartNet-100 is both EN 54 certified and BS 5839-1 compliant, providing Charles Pugh Glass assurance that the new system meets all relevant safety standards whilst still obtaining insurance requirements.

Charles Pugh Glass made the initial choice to upgrade its systems to satisfy fire risk assessment and insurance requirements but it was the benefits of 100% wireless and minimal disruption that made Cygnus’ SmartNet-100 stand out.

Features of the SmartNet-100

SmartNet-100 stands out because it is ideal for small to medium sized projects where the scalability of SmartNet-Pro is not required. The SmartNet-100 has many features and benefits of the SmartNet-Pro range, including the fact is is an EN 54 certified and 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system.

Built on a combination of radio devices, operating on a self-forming, self-healing wireless mesh network with multi path network redundancy utilising channel hopping technology that enhances reliability and robustness. Alongside all these features, SmartNet-100 is still up to 20 times faster to install than wired systems.

SmartNet-100 was installed into two buildings on the premises: the warehouse and the office and workshop, utilising two SmartNet panels with 75 devices, including smoke detectors, ceiling beacons and input/output units, connected to one panel and 85 on the second system.

Unlike other wireless options on the market, Cygnus provides a 100% wireless solution with no requirement for boosters and the mains power hardwiring which follows, allowing minimal disruption during an installation period of just three days.

Managing Director of Cannon Fire & Security, Dominic Gundry-White’s statement

“Choosing a 100% wireless solution has increased the speed and ease of installation. The installation only took three days to complete both buildings, where it would have taken 2-3 weeks for installation of a hard-wired solution”, states Dominic Gundry-White, Managing Director of Cannon Fire & Security.

Cannon Fire & Security choose Cygnus’ SmartNet-100 system to be installed at Charles Pugh Glass: Summary

Cygnus’ SmartNet-100 system has been chosen by Cannon Fire & Security to be installed at Charles Pugh Glass. This is following Charles Pugh’s request to find a replacement for their previous 25 year old fire alarm system that no longer met industry regulations.

Advanced welcomes Fire Safety Specialist Shadi Elhag to the Middle East team

by Featured NewsPeople

Shadi Elhag has joined the Advanced team as Business Development Manager for the Middle East. Shadi’s appointment marks Advanced’s commitment to fostering strong customer relationships and driving growth in this critical region.

Shadi Elhag’s background

Shadi brings a wealth of experience in fire safety and compliance, having previously held key roles in the industry. Most recently, he worked at UL Solutions, where he supported the adoption of UL safety standards across the Middle East.

Shadi also has an extensive background in technical sales and fire suppression systems, with a proven track record of fostering strong customer relationships and delivering results.

Based in Riyadh, Shadi will focus on building and nurturing relationships with end users, consultants, and system integrators.

His role will be pivotal in promoting Advanced’s fire detection and alarm solutions, including Axis AX and Axis EN, which are designed to meet the diverse needs of the Middle East market.

Business Development Manager for Advanced’s Middle East Team, Shadi Elhag’s statement

Shadi said: “I am thrilled to join Advanced, a company known for its exceptional product quality and innovative approach. My goal is to ensure we continue to deliver reliable fire safety solutions that enhance both protection and compliance for our customers.

“I’m looking forward to working with a talented team and contributing to Advanced’s mission of creating a safer future.”

Advanced’s General Manager for Fire Systems in the Middle East, Sasi Kumar’s statement

Sasi Kumar, Advanced’s General Manager for Fire Systems in the Middle East, welcomed the new addition, stating: “We are delighted to have Shadi on board. His extensive knowledge of fire safety systems and dedication to understanding customer needs will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence in the Middle East.”

Shadi Elhag announced as Advanced’s Business Development Manager for the Middle East Team: Summary

Shadi Elhag is joining the Advanced team as Business Development Manager for the Middle East. With a focus on building relationships and a wealth of experience in fire safety and compliance, Shadi will offer his expertise to Advanced’s mission of creating a safer future.

Mental health crisis is costing millions say UK Fire & Rescue Service

by Featured NewsFire Brigades UnionPeople

“Firefighters are being pushed beyond limits to keep the public safe,” says Fire Brigades Union.

Data obtained by Accident Claims Advice (ACA) via Freedom of Information Request to UK Fire Services has found that work-related stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD were the most common conditions cited for staff mental health absences in the last three years. 

Out of thirty four Fire and Rescue Services that responded to the request in full before the deadline, thirty people reported a rise in staff absences due to mental health.

Cost of the mental health crisis

What’s more, the estimated total cost of all sickness absences (including for mental health) since 2021 is £84m at London Fire Brigade alone – so is likely to be well in excess of £100m for the UK’s fire services as whole.

Between 2021 and 2024 more than 24,000 UK Fire Service staff took at least one day off work due to mental health, with the figure rising year on year.

In 2021/22, 7,359 staff absences were recorded, rising to 8,300 the following year.

The figure has now reached a three-year-high with 10,338 UK fire staff mental health absences recorded – a rise of 40% compared with 2021/22.

The London Fire Brigade estimates that the total cost of all sickness absences to the service amounted to £25,693,253.88 between 2021/22 rising to £28,697,037.01 and is now at a three-year-high with the estimated cost to the service standing at £29,552,381.75 for 2023/24.

Fire Brigades Union General Secretaries statement

The Fire Brigades Union General Secretary, Matt Wrack, told ACA: “We are facing a mental health crisis in the fire and rescue service. Since attending traumatic incidents is an unavoidable part of the job for firefighters, mental health support is vital.

“After a decade of cuts and to address this crisis, we need central government to provide the investment needed to rebuild the service.”

Nationwide impact

Across the UK, the biggest increase in staff mental health sickness absences was recorded at Cumbria Fire and Rescue which saw a 75 per cent rise between 2021 and 2024. It is followed by Surrey Fire and Rescue which saw an increase of 68 per cent and Royal Berkshire, where staff mental health absences rose by 67 per cent in the last three years.

The highest number of mental health staff absences was at London Fire Brigade, where a total of 1,129 have been logged in the last three years.

UK Fire & Rescue discuss impact of mental health crisis: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union have spoken out about increased amount of firefighters who are struggling with their mental health.

General Secretary for the FBU, Mark Wrack, highlighted why firefighters might be struggling. Noting attending traumatic incidents and decades of cuts to the service as being impacting factors.

Iveco Group firefighting business leadership change as Thomas Hilse departs

by Featured NewsPeopleVehicles

Leadership change in Iveco Group firefighting business unit

Iveco Group has announced the departure of Thomas Hilse, President of the Firefighting Business Unit and CEO of Magirus GmbH.

Hilse, who has held these positions since 2021, is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities.

Transition of Magirus GmbH to Mutares SE

As reported by Iveco Group, Hilse played a crucial role in ensuring continuity during the transition of Magirus GmbH to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA.

This transition was the subject of a separate announcement made earlier today.

CEO’s statement on Hilse’s departure

Olof Persson, CEO of Iveco Group, expressed gratitude for Hilse’s contributions.

He stated: “I want to thank Thomas for his passion, hard work and leadership. On behalf of everyone at Iveco Group, we wish him continued success in his future professional endeavours.”

Overview of Iveco Group

Iveco Group operates seven distinct brands, including IVECO, FPT Industrial, and ASTRA.

As of 31st December 2023, the company employs over 36,000 people across 20 industrial sites and 31 research and development centres worldwide.

Iveco Group firefighting business leadership change as Thomas Hilse departs: Summary

Thomas Hilse, President of the Firefighting Business Unit at Iveco Group and CEO of Magirus GmbH, has left his role effective immediately.

Hilse’s tenure, which began in 2021, included overseeing the launch of the new MAGIRUS fire truck portfolio.

He also ensured a smooth transition of Magirus GmbH to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA.

CEO Olof Persson acknowledged Hilse’s leadership and wished him success.

Iveco Group, headquartered in the Netherlands, operates seven key brands across commercial vehicles, industrial technologies, and financing.

North Fire appoints Terry Johnson to oversee firefighting vehicle projects in the Middle East

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeopleVehicles

Terry Johnson brings decades of firefighting experience to North Fire

Yorkshire-based North Fire has announced the appointment of Terry Johnson as head of its MENA region, where he will lead the firm’s firefighting vehicle projects in the Middle East.

Johnson’s career began in 1978 with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

In 1989, he took a training role with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.

Later, he served as a senior fire service advisor with Dubai Civil Defense for 12 years.

North Fire’s managing director, Oliver North, stated: “Terry brings a level of experience and local understanding for the MENA region which I genuinely think is unparalleled in the sector.”

New vehicle concept in development for MENA region

North Fire recently revealed its new rapid intervention vehicle (RIV) from its UK headquarters as part of a fire service contract.

Further contracts in the RIV space are anticipated in the coming months.

The company has also begun developing a new firefighting vehicle concept tailored to the demands of the MENA region.

This vehicle is scheduled for launch in Autumn 2025.

Johnson will work closely with North Fire’s engineering and production teams on this project.

Johnson’s vision for firefighting vehicles in the Middle East

Commenting on his appointment, Johnson said: “Throughout my career, I’ve been obsessed with ensuring the firefighter is equipped with the most relevant and effective vehicles and equipment possible, to aid their ability to save life more efficiently.”

He added: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to influence the raising of the bar of firefighting vehicle technology, specific to the region I know so well.”

Reaffirming commitment to the region

Johnson emphasised his ongoing dedication to the MENA region, stating: “I would like to clarify that I will not be leaving the region.

“As the current Regional President of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), I will dedicate my efforts to enhancing our focus on the broader region.”

He added: “My priorities include increasing membership and raising awareness of the benefits available to all fire and related entities.

“Additionally, I will concentrate on supporting emergency response initiatives and addressing associated challenges, particularly on sharing best practices and promoting integrity within the field.”

IFSJ Leaders in Fire and Safety Conference

Johnson will return as chair of the IFSJ Leaders in Fire and Safety Conference on 8 May 2025 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Dubai Marina.

The one-day event will bring together senior leaders, technical specialists, and policy advisers to discuss fire safety and emergency response improvements – register your interest in attending here: https://ifsjleadersinfireandsafety.com/registration-2025/.

North Fire appoints Terry Johnson to oversee firefighting vehicle projects in the Middle East: Summary

North Fire has appointed Terry Johnson as head of its MENA region to oversee upcoming firefighting vehicle projects tailored to the Middle East.

Johnson, a seasoned professional with extensive firefighting and advisory experience, will collaborate with North Fire’s engineering team to develop next-generation vehicles.

The company recently launched a new rapid intervention vehicle and is set to unveil a vehicle concept for the MENA region later in 2025.

Johnson will also chair the IFSJ Leaders in Fire and Safety Conference in Dubai.

Firefighters and safety leaders honoured in the 2025 New Year honours lists

by Breaking NewsPeople

United Kingdom New Year honours recognise fire and safety leaders

The New Year Honours are part of the British honours system, recognising individuals for their exceptional achievements and service.

These honours are awarded annually by the monarch to people from various sectors, including public service, community work, and industry, acknowledging their contributions to society and their respective fields.

As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), the 2025 New Year Honours list includes several individuals from the fire and rescue services and the fire industry.

Among the honourees are:

  • Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE):
    • Ross Fraser Haggart KFSM, lately Chief Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
  • Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE):
    • Ian Frederick Moore JP, Chief Executive Officer, Fire Industry Association
  • Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE):
    • Aman Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Totus Digital
  • British Empire Medal (BEM):
    • David Anthony Kemp, Strategic Community Safety Manager, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service
    • James Burns Smith, Librarian, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
    • Philip Wilkinson, lately Crew Manager, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Services
    • Claire Harmawooldridge, Firefighter, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service
  • King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM):
    • Steven John Healey, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Bruce Farquharson, lately Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
    • Glynn Luznyj, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service
    • Robert Somerled MacDougall, Chief Fire Officer, Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service
    • Ian Alexander McDougall, Assistant Chief Officer, Defence Fire and Rescue Service
    • Jonathon Peter Pryce, Chief Fire Officer, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service
    • Karla Stevenson, Group Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
    • Rachel Louise Streeting, lately Firefighter, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham extended his congratulations: “I’m delighted to congratulate our fire and rescue service and fire industry colleagues who have been recognised for their outstanding work and dedicated service.”

He added: “These remarkable individuals represent a wide range of roles and responsibilities across fire and rescue services and the list also includes those who currently or have previously played significant national roles for and on behalf of NFCC.”

Hardingham continued: “This is also a moment to celebrate the incredible work of all our fire and rescue teams – professionals who consistently go above and beyond to support and protect their communities throughout the year.”

Fire Industry Association Chief Executive recognised in honours list

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has welcomed the news that its Chief Executive Officer, Ian Frederick Moore JP, has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours List for his services to the fire industry and public safety.

The Cabinet Office’s Main Honours Committee considered his contributions to military service and the community in their decision.

Since becoming CEO, Ian Moore has implemented key improvements within the fire safety industry.

Under his leadership, the FIA has grown to become Europe’s largest fire protection trade association, comprising over 1,200 members.

All members hold Third Party Certification, a standard Ian advocates to enhance professionalism in the life safety industry.

He has supported the development of fire safety qualifications, aiding thousands of professionals in improving their skills and increasing safety in buildings and communities.

Ian Moore has addressed significant industry challenges, including leading efforts to improve competency standards following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

He launched a building safety information portal to assist homeowners affected by cladding issues and successfully lobbied for fire safety professionals to be classified as key workers during the pandemic, ensuring the continuity of critical safety systems.

Beyond his professional role, Ian serves as a Magistrate, Parish Councillor, and is actively involved in several charities, including delivering fire safety equipment to Ukraine.

Sir Ken Knight, former Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser for England, commented: “Ian’s work has had a real and lasting impact on fire safety. His efforts have improved industry standards and helped countless people across the country and beyond.”

Fire and Emergency New Zealand celebrates honoured firefighters

Fire and Emergency New Zealand Board Chair Rebecca Keoghan has acknowledged five firefighters from various regions who have been included in the 2025 New Year Honours List.

Rebecca Keoghan stated: “These honours are a worthy recognition of the many years of dedicated service these five recipients have made to Fire and Emergency and their communities.”

She further said: “On behalf of everyone at Fire and Emergency and the communities that our recipients have served so diligently, I would like to extend my congratulations.”

Health and Safety Executive chief recognised in honours list

Sarah Albon, Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), has been names as a Companion of the Order of Bath in the New Year Honours list.

Sarah Albon expressed her gratitude: “It is a great privilege to have been awarded a CB in the King’s New Year’s Honours list.”

She added: “I’m proud to be a civil servant working on behalf of the public, and proud of the teams I lead.

“I have been very fortunate to work with dedicated and talented colleagues throughout my career and I see this award as testament to their achievements as much as my own.”

Chair of the HSE Board Sarah Newton commented: “It’s a pleasure to work with Sarah Albon who over the past five years at HSE has led the organisation through significant challenges and change.”

Newton further stated: “Since becoming Chief Executive of HSE in 2019, Sarah has provided outstanding leadership, implementing major initiatives of national significance, protecting people and places.

“I’m pleased to see this award rightly recognise Sarah’s contribution, both here at HSE and in her roles across the Civil Service, and I am delighted to congratulate her on this achievement.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service members receive honours

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has seen several of its members honoured in the New Year Honours list.

Group Commander Karla Stevenson has been awarded a King’s Fire Service Medal for her advocacy for inclusion and diversity within SFRS. She stated:

“I’m very overwhelmed to have been nominated for such a prestigious award and I’m extremely proud and humbled to accept this. To have my work recognised in this way is very much appreciated.”

Chief Officer Ross Haggart, now retired, has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for his services to fire and rescue and charitable organisations. He commented:

“I am delighted and humbled to receive a Commander of the Order of the British Empire award. Firefighting has been a huge part of my life for so many years and it’s been such a rewarding career that I can look back on with pride.”

Bruce Farquharson, a retired Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, and Jim Smith, a retired firefighter and fire service historian, have also been recognised with honours.

Firefighters and safety leaders honoured in the 2025 New Year honours lists: Summary

The 2025 New Year Honours list has recognised numerous individuals from the fire and rescue services and the fire industry in the United Kingdom and Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

In the UK, the National Fire Chiefs Council acknowledged several honourees, including Commander of the Order of the British Empire Ross Fraser Haggart and others receiving Officer and Member of the Order of the British Empire, British Empire Medal, and King’s Fire Service Medal.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand celebrated five firefighters honoured for their dedicated service. Additionally, the Health and Safety Executive’s Chief Executive Sarah Albon was appointed a Companion of the Order of Bath.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service honoured Group Commander Karla Stevenson and other retired members for their contributions to the service and community.