Kent Fire and Rescue Service selects FireWatch workforce management platform

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has selected FireWatch as its new platform for integrated workforce management in a deal that includes the delivery of the FireWatch platform via Microsoft Azure Cloud – with SaaS (Software as a Service) – and Mobile App access for FRS users.

The contract worth circa £1 million covers the replacement of Kent’s existing rostering and availability systems and includes:

  • Resource availability planning and real-time monitoring
  • Resource and skills-based crewing
  • Flexible/self-rostering planning, workflow and fulfilment
  • Overtime resource request and fulfilment workflows
  • General time management, leave and absence workflows and recording
  • Payments and integration with payroll
  • Integration of absence data
  • Mobile App and Web UX access for end-users and managers
  • Mobilisation system integration

The FireWatch deployment will provide ‘anytime, anywhere’ access for KFRS staff including wholetime and on-call firefighters, managers, officers and corporate support staff which will increase real-time visibility of availability and resources, and integrating live data with the control room.

Karen Irvine, Assistant Director of People and Learning at KFRS, said: “At KFRS, we’re always looking for ways we can evolve to continuously deliver a high standard to the people we serve, but we’re also really committed to being an innovative place to work, so we’re really looking forward to working with FireWatch and introducing its benefits.

“Overall, FireWatch will enable us to manage our resources and availability more effectively, including better time management options and a live picture of our service resources and personnel, which will help to match crews, skills and equipment to operational need.”

FireWatch Mobile will allow users to directly manage data and tasks for time/availability, leave and other areas via smart devices. Supervisors and team members will also be empowered to clearly understand the impact of resource changes and to manage and act on any issues or deadlines highlighted within their personalised Key Performance Indicators displayed ‘on-screen’. This includes workflow-driven resource requests and fulfilment processes to address gaps in cover.

Russell Wood, Commercial Manager at FireWatch developer Infographics, said: “We are extremely pleased to have been selected by Kent Fire and Rescue as a part of a competitive tendering process. We are looking forward to working with the team to modernise their user experience around the management of resources and availability, deliver flexible self-service capabilities and provide live integrated resource information to their control room.”

Streamlight talks lighting innovation in the fire market

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Whether for fighting fires, investigating scenes, signalling others in emergencies, or conducting rescues, lighting appliances are an essential piece of equipment for fire and rescue teams in order to navigate hazard-filled environments. Stream light, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting devices, offer a range of high-quality products built with precision and performance works to meet the needs of the fire market.

The company has developed its insights over decades of open communications and has a user-centric approach in developing new ideas and innovation for the fire market which, combined with their knowledge, experience and technical capabilities has seen them become a market leader in the industry.

Streamlight’s product development and compliance teams have been making a continuous effort to develop and evolve its ATEX product lines – the European certification given to equipment tested and approved to be intrinsically safe for use in or around explosive atmospheres – with the assurance that its flashlights are all safe, reliable, and a good fit for the job. International Fire and Safety Journal looks at a selection of Streamlights solutions for the fire market. 

Advanced Lighting

A clip-on flashlight is depended on by firefighters and so needs to be tough, compact in size, and reliable. Streamlight has developed specialised products for the fire market, including its clip-on flashlight Survivor Right Angle ATEX Light which possesses the latest in high-lumen LED technology for extreme brightness. The Survivor has four lighting modes that include high and low intensity, emergency flash, and a moonlight mode for low-level lighting that runs for 15 days.

The Survivor’s custom optic produces a narrow beam which is designed to cut through smoke, fog, and mist whilst also providing optimum peripheral illumination to aid in navigation. To ensure reliability, it operates on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery than can be recharged up to 1,500 times and permits firefighters to insert a spare pack of four AA alkaline or four AA lithium batteries to reduce the likelihood of being caught in the dark with a dead battery.

Avoiding hazards

Another key feature of any lighting device used by firefighters is that it needs to be safe for use in hazardous location. Streamlight’s high-performance Enduro Pro HAZ-LO ATEX headlamp is IECEx-certified for use in Zone 0 locations – places in which ignitable concentrations of flammable gases or vapours are present continuously – which are regularly faced by many fire fighters in their role as first repsonders.

The headlamp features a 45 degree tilting head and has three lighting modes to cover a variety of tasks: spot for a focused beam, flood for soft area illumination that will prevent eyes becoming tired and spot/flood combo for even more light output. The light also includes an adjustable elastic head strap and comes with two additional options: a rubber head strap and 3M Dual Lock re-closable fasteners for mounting on hard hats.

Streamlight’s Dualiefamily of lights are designed to be fundamentally safe and feature multi-directional lighting. Also ATEX and IECEx-certified is the Dualie 3AA flashlight which features a bright light that shines both ahead and downwards, helping firefighters avoid slips, trips, and falls. Powered by AA batteries, the Dualie 3AA features two powerful LEDS and three output modes: spot, flood, and spot/flood simultaneously for maximum brightness.

The 3AA model also has a case constructed from a durable, non-conductive, corrosion-proof polymer resin and unbreakable polycarbonate lenses with scratch-resistant coating and includes an integrated, snag-free clip for use on shirts, pockets and mounting on to gear for hands-free use.

Power and precision

Many situations faced by firefighters will need precision, task-oriented lighting. Streamlight’s Vulcan 180 HAZ-LO ATEX is a multifunction and rechargeable high-performance lantern featuring a 24-hour run time on low, and features a 180-degree articulating head and two ultra-bright blue taillights for visibility in difficult environments – whether from smoke, inclement weather, or other hazards. Firefighters and first responders can aim the light beam precisely where it is needed for task lighting purposes.

Portability and durability in poor conditions are another important design consideration, which is why Streamlight developed The Portable Scene Light II: a 10,000-lumen rechargeable, waterproof scene light. Featuring a versatile steel frame and 360-degree rotating head for precise aiming, this scene light is particularly beneficial for marking exits, post investigation, ground clean-up and mobile triage centre lighting.

Also from Streamlight is the recently introduced BearTrap: is a multi-function, rechargeable, 2,000-lumen work light, featuring both spot and flood beams. The BearTrap can rotate 270 degrees in its frame and it clamps to most surfaces without scratching or stands alone for hands-free task illuminations. It also features a magnetic base and a hanging hook and has an IPX4 rated design for water-resistant operation and is impact resistant tested to one meter.

Informing On Innovations

As lighting technology continues to evolve, the range of options for firefighting professionals worldwide continues to grow thanks to advances in portable lighting technology from innovators like Streamlight.

Streamlight is working with fire departments and training facilities to educate them on the latest technology innovations in lighting, spreading the word about the importance of light at a fire scene, and detailing the use of actual products in the training sessions. The company also offers an extensive video showcase on its website, which provides product and training information for fire personnel.

Streamlight President and CEO, Ray Sharrah comments: “Streamlight is a pioneer in rechargeable lighting with one of the largest range of safety-rated lights. We are revolutionising LED lights, making them brighter, safer, and incredibly durable.” He adds, “After we’ve met the challenges involved in designing and engineering a light, we put it through the most demanding industry testing to ensure the highest levels of performance and dependability”.

This article was originally published in the June edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Exclusive: Super Vac examines battery platform compatibility for rescue tools

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

With so many fire tools now powered by name brands, Super Vac looks at the offering from key players in the battery power industry: DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, IDEX and Holmatro.

Hand Tools

DeWalt’s 18V/56V MAX FLEXVOLT battery switches voltage when crews change tools, allowing these batteries to power more than 250+ products across the 18V MAX and 56V MAX systems. AMKUS Rescue Systems, a trusted name in the rescue equipment industry has partnered with DeWalt to distribute select MAX products to the fire industry.

Makita’s XGT 40V battery powers roughly 80 different Makita XGT MAX tools, including cordless drills, demo hammers, impact drivers and more. The XGT battery is designed for high-demand applications that typically would use corded, gas or air power sources. Makita batteries also feature a triple-layer structure for water and dust resistance.

Milwaukee is developing to its M18 REDLITHIUM series, providing up to 2.5 times more runtime and 20% more power than other lithium-ion batteries. This one battery system powers more than 200 Milwaukee M18 hand tools.

IDEX Fire & Safety is favoured in the industry for its patented 1P68-rated EWXT/E3 batteries (capable of operating underwater), IDEX and its LUKAS rescue tool brand have yet to introduce small hand tools to the market – departments may want to keep an eye on IDEX’s future innovations.

While Holmatro doesn’t offer battery-powered “hand tools,” the manufacturer has one of the most well-rounded lists of assist tools and rescue accessories to complement its EV0 3 rescue tools, including jacks, struts, wedges, lifting bags and more. You’ll have to put in a little elbow grease, that’s all.

Rescue Saws

DeWalt offers a variety of battery-powered saws that can be utilised in the fire service, including cutoff saws, chainsaws and reciprocating saws. To further retrofit the DeWalt chainsaw for the rigors of the fire ground, Super Vac offers a battery chainsaw conversion kit that turns this ordinary 16″ wood-cutting saw into a RIT or overhaul saw.

Makita offers a battery-powered reciprocating saw in the 40V XGT line, and in its 18V LXT line, Makita sells both chainsaws and recipro saws. The Makita chainsaw can be equipped with a Super Vac conversion kit that modifies the saw with carbine chain, modified bar and depth gauge, all designed for RIT or overhaul operations on the fireground.

Milwaukee offers the popular SAWZALL, as well as a chainsaw, which both deliver up to 150 cuts per charge. The Milwaukee chainsaw can be further modified for the fireground with the Super Vac chainsaw conversion kit to allow the saw to cut through asphalt shingles, hurricane glass, roofing materials and more.

When it comes to cutting, IDEX doesn’t dabble too much in the small saw game – but some might say the brand’s StrongArm tool can fit in this portable cutting category. The StrongArm cuts through 3/8-inch rebar, Grade 43 Chain and two-by-four wood, and it can also spread and breach doors.

PPVS

Super Vac introduced the first-ever DeWalt battery-powered positive pressure fan to the industry in 2018. The fan operates off of dual 9.0Ah or 12.0Ah FLEXVOLT batteries. Available in a 16″, 18″ or 20″ model, the DeWalt-powered fan provides 40 minutes of run time (depending on battery selection) and 16,700-22,000 cmh (depending on model).

New for 2022, Super Vac introduced a lineup of Makita battery fans, powered by dual XGT 40V batteries (XC 4.0Ah or XC 5.0Ah). Like its DeWalt counterpart, Super Vac offers 16″, 18″ and 20″ Makita models. Output and run times vary based on Super Vac model, but range from 15,000-19,800 cmh in airflow and 40-50 minute in run time.

Super Vac offers two lines of Milwaukee fans, M18 and M28 battery-powered fans. Although Milwaukee is phasing out new M28 products, many fire departments still utilize these tools, so Super Vac developed an M28 lineup for compatibility with these tools. M28 batteries must be sourced through TNT, Genesis and Weber dealers that offer M28 rescue tools.

Last year, Super Vac introduced its 5.0Ah and 9.0Ah EWXT/E3 battery-powered 20″ fan to the market. Since that introduction, the fan manufacturer has added a 16 and 18″ variation. Per Super Vac’s special proprietary battery licensing agreement with IDEX, these fans and batteries are only available through authorized LUKAS dealers.

Finally, wait for it. Can we expect a EV0 3 battery-powered fan in the future? Maybe.

Lights

DeWalt offers a battery tripod that telescopes to 1.4m and offers variable brightness settings, up to 3,000 lumens. The light will operate for more than 11 hours on the lowest setting. Meanwhile, Command Light offers a 1.25mDeWalt-powered tripod with 2.27m telescoping reach. This tripod pairs with 10 different firefighter-favorite LEDs, featuring up to 28,000 lumens.

Makita offers a 1,100-lumen light and can provide up to 10 hours of light on this max setting. The light can be mounted on optional tripod. For higher lumens, Command Light offers 10 different Makita battery-powered tripod models, featuring the same fixture options, as well as tripod dimension as the earlier DeWalt model mentioned above.

Milwaukee offers a tripod series, featuring 1.1-1.4m extension and 1,400-6,000 lumens, depending on model. Milwaukee also sells portable flood lights and radius site lights in the M18 platform. For even more lumens, look to Command Light for Milwaukee battery-powered tripods, featuring Akron Revels, FRC Spectras, FireTech Helios and Whelen fixtures.

IDEX recently introduced the Scout, a 14,000-lumen scene light that can be used to provide lighting when crews are extricating patients. Like Super Vac, Command Light also arranged a special agreement to power three of its tripods with EWXT/E3 batteries, including the T50-AX-BW, which features two Akron Revels for 28,000 lumens.

Holmatro has engineered LED lighting into its cutters, spreaders and combo tools. Six bright lights provide illumination at night. These LEDs operate standard AA batteries and deliver six hours of continuous light.

Rescue Tools

AMKUS Rescue Systems powers its ion-battery 2.0 rescue tools with DeWalt FLEXVOLT batteries. AMKUS offers three different cutters, two combis, four spreaders and two rams. Made of solid aluminium, AMKUS tools are between 13-30 cm shorter than competitor models, allowing first responders to work in cramped rescue quarters.

Makita pairs with Ogura, a 50-year-old Japanese manufacturer of rescue tools. The Ogura lineup includes 18V battery-powered combis, cutters, spreaders and rams and a battery-powered rebar cutter. The head or power unit of the Ogura’s RP Series can be changed at any time without disengaging from the work.

TNT, Genesis and Weber, power their rescue tools with Milwaukee. TNT offers both M18 and M28 cutters, spreaders, combis and rams, while Genesis and Weber build on the M28 platform.

Powerhouse in hydraulic rescue tools, LUKAS, offers cutters, spreaders, combis and rams are powered by IDEX EWXT/E3 batteries. LUKAS is renowned for its eDRAULIC watertight line of rescue tools that can operate in heavy rain, high water or even under water. And with new E3 technology, LUKAS prides itself on performance diagnostics.

Finally, Holmatro offers proprietary EVO 3 battery technology in its “world-leading rescue tools” line of cutters, combis, spreaders and rams. The IP54-rated EVO 3 battery features a brushless motor, a direct-drive pump and electronic speed control that work together in tandem to deliver continuous, optimally high tool speed.

Car-wreck emergency rescue strategy overhaul being considered

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

A new study by Devon air ambulance led by emergency medical consultant Dr Tim Nutbeam has found growing evidence that current extrication methods used by fire services cutting people free from motor vehicle collisions may be harmful.

“Since at least the 1980s, firefighters have been trained with movement minimisation as the absolute paradigm,” said Dr Tim Nutbeam, “They’ve been told that one millimetre of movement could turn someone into a wheelchair user, so will often disassemble the car around the patient, to avoid movement of the neck.”

Upon discovering, however, that this extrication method took an average of 30 minutes, Nutbeam began researching the issue after noticing a disconnect between concerns about spinal movement, and the injuries he was seeing in his patients who had suffered serious injuries during the collision – including experiencing people die in their vehicles, or shortly after they were removed.

His research found that that trapped patients were almost twice as likely to die as those who were rapidly freed from the wreckage and that the prevalence of spinal injuries among such patients was extremely low at just 0.7% and in around half of these cases, they had other serious injuries needing urgent medical attention.

“Our absolute focus on movement minimisation works for maybe 0.3% of patients, but it extends the entrapment time for 99.7% of them,” Nutbeam said. “Potentially hundreds of people in this country have died as a result of extended entrapment times, and if you multiply that worldwide, it’s many, many people.”

In a consensus paper, UK stakeholders including the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the College of Paramedics reviewed the existing evidence, and have agreed a set of principles for future guidance, which will include a recommendation that self or minimally-assisted extrication should be the standard “first line” for trapped patients who are conscious and likely to be able to stand with assistance, and that minimising entrapment time should be the goal for all patients.

The NFCC is also planning further tests, in light of Nutbeam’s research. “The main aim of the UK fire and rescue service is to save lives and prevent injury, therefore we will always look to update and change guidance,” said Chris Lowther, chair of NFCC’s operations committee. “As a result of this research, further work will be undertaken as to how extrication could be [performed]. Once we have this, we will look as to how any changes could be introduced into our national operational guidance.”

Fol-Da-Tank: Behind the innovation

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Joel Wright, CEO at Fol-Da-Tank, discusses how the company is utilising lean manufacturing to innovate solutions for customers

Firefighting is a profession which is both physically and mentally demanding. It is also a highly dangerous task and so teams are looking for equipment that is efficient and durable in order to handle any high-pressure task. Going above and beyond the basics, innovators in the mobile water supply industry are ensuring that their newest developments are making the intensive day-to-day work of firefighters a little bit easier.

Joel Wright, CEO at portable water tank manufacture Fol-Da-Tank says its team relies on one of the basic principles of its lean manufacturing training to successfully incorporate innovation into its culture. “The lean principle is value is in the eye of the customer,” he explains. “That’s why we listen to our customers in order to create products that make their jobs and lives easier.”

Fol-Da-Tank is built on a 66-year legacy of innovation in the firefighting industry. The founder’s first innovation, the folding frame drop tank, was revolutionary: “He saw his firefighter friends lashing four ladders together and throwing a tarp in the middle,” tells Wright. “This was an effective temporary auxiliary water tank, and it took valuable time to set up and clean up. His infant daughter was home in her playpen which was easy to set up and looked a lot like the tank formed by the ladders and tarp. The first drop tank was built modelling the playpen and it revolutionised rural water supply.”

Inspired Innovation

Since purchasing the company from the founding family, the team has defined its innovation challenge as one of our three core strategies. Simply stated: “We drive demand for innovation.” Wright says that in every interaction with its customers the company has trained itself to listen for unmet needs and wants. “This active approach yields insights that are especially helpful to industry newcomers. While we search for another revolutionary idea, we know our success depends on a steady stream of evolutionary innovation,” he tells.

One of its first innovations was born from a large number of unpleasant conversations about freight damage: “Our drop tanks are long and light. They don’t ship well. When they arrive damaged, it starts a frustrating process for the customer, distributor, carrier, and us. Da-Tank-Stand was our innovative answer and it dramatically reduced freight damage in our domestic shipments.”

Every innovation has a good story. An example Wright gives is when a firefighter visited Fol-Da-Tank’s shop and commented on the colourfulness all the vinyl rolls in the racks. “He said he’d been on a cloudy midnight call and the lighting at the scene was poor,” tells Wright. “He asked if we could make the drain sleeves a different colour than the liner so he could see them easier at the end of the call. This was a simple change to incorporate, and we call it the Hi-Viz drain sleeve.”

One innovation came about from a wildland firefighter who came to the company with stories of sudden wind shifts which triggered the immediate need to move people and equipment: “He told us our standard drain sleeves took too long to drain the tank which consumed valuable time. From this firefighter’s vivid story, we developed the Jumbo Drain which empties our tanks six times faster than a regular drain sleeve,” explains Wright.

Another example was borne when the Fol-Da-Tank team attended a rural water supply class by the team at Got Big Water, when they were struck by the improvised techniques to hold drain sleeves to the frame. “Our design included a rope hold which we RF welded to the outside of the tank wall, a pull through strap, and a carabiner clipped through grommets at the end of the drain sleeve,” he says.

“By design, the carabiner clipped to the rope hold was a perfect way to hold all the water in the tank. When it was time to release the water, all one had to do was unclip the carabiner and pull on the strap. This simple motion pulled the drain sleeve through the tank wall. At the class, we observed how difficult it was to unclip the carabiner while wearing gloves. This is the genesis for our Rapid Release mechanism which is a new standard on tanks and comes in a retrofit kit for existing tanks.”

Repair and replace

Firefighting is an intensely physical, demanding profession and so occasionally equipment is damaged, and Wright says they have received more than one email late at night from a fire chief who returned to the station after an event where equipment was damaged.

Wright explains: “When a truck accidentally backs into a tank, they need a replacement or repair fast. We used our shop software to identify the most popular items. Building finished goods or subassemblies for these items is low risk.  As a result, we commit to our customers 1 to 2-day lead times for the items on our Quick Ship list.”

He adds: “As a lean organisation, we understand that value is in the eye of the customer. When we had to choose where to spend our time, we found bringing innovation to life was easy to justify.”

This article was originally published in the June edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Blackline Safety announces equipment trade-in programme

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Blackline Safety Corp, a global leader in connected safety technology, has unveiled an equipment trade-in program designed to make it easier for fire departments and emergency response teams to acquire cutting-edge gas detection equipment and the monitoring software.

The Blackline Safety program allows fire departments and emergency response departments to trade in older safety monitoring equipment that is either end-of-life or not working properly, in exchange for credit towards the purchase of next-generation Blackline Safety G7 EXO area monitors or G7 personal gas detectors.

“Emergency responders are in a class of their own when it comes to safety,” said Blackline Safety Business Development Specialist Doug Mayer. “They need to be prepared to face any situation in order to protect not only themselves, but potentially the community at large. It’s critical they have the most advanced safety monitoring technology at their fingertips.”

The incentive is important because fire departments and response teams are relied on to use the best methods and equipment available to enhance safety, yet most are publicly funded and therefore have tight budgets. “We’re taking old equipment off their hands and giving them an affordable way to upgrade to a replacement that is leading edge,” Mayer explained.

The opportunity to upgrade also gives first responders access to equipment with longer battery life, ensuring it outlasts even the longest response scenario.

“In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to be prepared around the clock for the unexpected,” he said. “We can help and we offer free evaluations of all our technologies.”

More information about the trade-in program can be found at: www.blacklinesafety.com/refresh

Certags: Cloud-based assets and equipment management for the fire safety industry

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Certags is a leading worldwide supplier of heavy-duty identification, inspection, and certification industrial tags, stickers, and labels. This allows businesses offering fire safety services, in door fire inspections, and fire protection equipment to track their assets while maintaining visibility, compliance, and safety.

Certags clientele is rapidly growing across the UK, Europe, USA, and Australia. The company has been helping industries in various sectors since 2001. The firm has been making serious in roads in oil and gas, fire safety and security, lifting and riggings, construction, scaffolding, height safety, manufacturing, warehousing, shipping, engineering, and the entertainment industry.

Despite its successes both recent and past, Certags is aware of the demands of the modern era with a remote working business model taking more prominence following the pandemic. The company has decided to go digital and has recently launched a cloud-based app called ‘Frame’.

Cloud-based Asset Management

We live in a world of mobile and smart working which prompted Certags take the next step in the evolution of asset management through inspection labels, tags, and stickers by launching Frame, a cloud-based smartphone app that allows businesses to manage assets and equipment remotely with accuracy and efficiency.

Certags’ Frame is a multi-feature software solution that is customizable for your fire safety business needs. Promisingly, you can sync this paperless on-the-go asset management app across multiple devices. This will give you complete control over asset management, registration, and maintenance.

The idea behind Frame is to offer a 360-degree view of all water fire system, fire alarms, foam systems, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, water sprinklers etc to ensure their safety and optimal performance. This can prevent many fire hazards resulting from equipment malfunction or lack of service.

Allowing users the ability to track the inspection and servicing of all water and fire systems, fire extinguishers, fire alarms and smoke detectors in your facility to ensure that your vital operations stay on track.

The workings

Setting up your cloud-based asset management via Frame involves five-steps: Attach Certags RFID/QR code to your assets and equipment; Scan the tag or QR code using Frame; Identify or create your zones; Identify assets type; and complete the schedules checklist for each equipment or asset.

Once Frame has been set up, the app will automatically update the user with real-time inspection data from any location or area. This data can be accessed from a desktop computer or a smartphone. Frame records the data in an easy-to-understand format with details such as what, where, by whom, and when.

This digital solution can also send schedule reminders so your steam will never miss inspection dates and stay on top of compliance.

Framing the benefits

Apart from the safety, visibility, and compliance, Certags industrial tags, labels, stickers, and cloud-based Frame offers several other perks.

Instant Access to Information: The system replaces the need for a field worker to submit an inspection report manually. Enabling employees promptly record all important data into the Frame app according to your scheduled pre-requisites and checklists.

Reporting: Tagging your smoke alarms, fire safety doors, fire extinguishers, water sprinkler systems along with remote access to their performance and condition allows you a holistic overview of your business’s asset portfolio. From general site reporting to individual KPI management, you will be able to view tailored verified reports of each asset, including forklifts, safety doors, fire extinguishers, etc.

Workflow Enhancements: Lack of visibility can lead to missing inspection dates and your sprinklers, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms breaking down due to inadequate maintenance. This type of failure can cause extended downtime. Certags digital tagging and live monitoring and reporting with Frame app allow you to prevent such incidents and escalate any triggered issues right away.

On-Boarding in the Field: You do not need to wait to register an asset onto your system manually. For example, with Frame, you can get a fire extinguisher onboard on the go. All you need to do is simply onboard a fire extinguisher during a routine inspection. Tag or label the new fire extinguisher and other similar equipment during the inspection, scan the tag with Frame, and your onboarding is complete.

Customisation: Certags can offer a customisable solution to ensure assets safety and management. You can create your own checklists, set schedules as per your needs and pull reports with information that you need.

The best part is that all authorised personnel will simultaneously access real-time data and reports. This avoids any incidents caused due to misunderstanding, lack of communication or transparency in sharing information.

Existing software solutions claiming to offer labels and tags for asset management lack efficiency, accuracy, and real-time reporting. That is why Certags decided to take the lead and bridge the gap with a cloud-based solution. Frame app does not require you to be a tech-savvy person. Anyone can operate Certags’ Frame app without the need to hire an IT specialist or Team.

Certags provide end-to-end support throughout the installation and integration process of Frame into your existing infrastructure. The company can also provide staff training in as little as 2 weeks’ time. This will allow your engineers and technical staff to get back to work right away.

The verdict

Fire safety is one of the largest areas of concern for most businesses, especially if operating in fire safety, building security, housing association and facility management sector.

The last couple of years have forced various sectors to adopt modern technology to gain a competitive edge. Therefore, Certags also took a leap and became a cloud-based solution provider for fire safety solutions for asset management.

Due to its impeccable reputation in the industry, businesses are already signing up to utilise Frame for all the benefits it has to offer and more.  If you are interested, please feel free to contact Certags on www.certags.co.uk/contact-us/ and speak to one of our team members.

This article was originally published in the May edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here

PBI: Pushing the boundaries of fire protective clothing

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts
Exclusive: Fabrics and materials manufacturer PBI has been pushing the boundary with its latest trademark innovation PBI LP, Ian Callaghan, Senior Director, International Marketing and Sales, PBI International tells us more

PBI is at the forefront of incredible innovation in the development of fabrics that protect firefighters against heat and flame, but are also lightweight and breathable, reducing the risk of heat stress.

The company’s range of fabrics have become the preferred choice of fire services all over the world. From USA and Europe, the Middle East to the Far East and Australasia, firefighters go to work every day protected by PBI outer fabrics.

Choosing to work with only the best fabric manufacturers in the supply chain ensures that every PBI product performs to the highest levels required in modern firefighting and rescue. The company’s close working relationship with its supply chains is a key factor in the continued investment in research and innovation which results in products that set new standards in comfort and performance. It has driven the development of an extensive range of structural firefighting outer shells designed specifically for the different needs of fire services.

The company’s product portfolio was recently expanded with the addition of, PBI LP, a trademark lightweight fibre that further enhances comfort, breathability and freedom of movement for future structural firefighting gear. 

Fabric made with PBI LP, which stands for ‘lightweight performance’, is 10% lighter than other outer fabrics for structural fire gear, helping to reduce the risk of heat stress.  Even though the unique PBI LP™ is lighter, it still enhances heat and flame protection and resistance to break open, without compromise.

The new lighter fibre performs incredibly well when used in outer shell fabrics, even when tested against other heavier para-aramid and meta-aramid outer shells. In independent test undertaken by BTTG in the same conditions the 180 gsm PBI LP garment outperformed an identical garment made with 220 gsm meta-aramid outer fabric. An eight second burn test was undertaken on the 2006 version of the male heat sensing manikin known as RALPH, which was developed by BTTG and conforms to ISO 13506.  For the test the hands and head were not used, leaving 123 sensors on torso, arms, legs that monitor the temperature on the surface of the manikin during the test.

The BTTG tests showed 2nd and 3rd degree burn injury prediction of only 1.8% for the garment with lighter PBI LP™, compared to a much higher figure of 19.3% burn injury for the meta-aramid, despite the meta-aramid also being 40gsm heavier.

Like all PBI fabrics, PBI LP delivers excellent tensile strength and will not become brittle, shrink, or break open when exposed to flame and high temperatures. This means that the integrity of the internal layers of the garment is protected, and the transfer of any radiant heat is slower, allowing more time for firefighters to escape to safety in a situation such as a flashover. PBI’s protection from exposure to heat and flame has been proven over many years of independent testing and performance in the field.

In a Dynamic Flame Test, which is used to demonstrate the time it takes for an outer fabric to breaks down under tension, PBI LP of 180g/m2 lasted 48 seconds, while a much heavier 220/ g/m2 Para-aramid/Meta-aramid fabric lasted just 3 seconds. 

PBI LP fabric is a result of PBI’s continued investment in research and development that creates new standards of firefighter protection.  That development process must always take account of the balance between comfort and protection.  That is why outer shells made with PBI LP join a wide range of PBI fabrics that meet the need of every situation and work effectively as an integral part of all garment design. Each product has different properties and applications, but every PBI fabric exceeds the required protection standards from heat and flame for outer fabrics.

PBI’s continued commitment to innovation and new product development is not restricted to structural firefighting solutions. Working closely with the supply chain, PBI has also developed a range of lightweight protective fabrics with increased tensile strength that is designed specifically for technical rescue, wildland and industrial firefighting. 

One of the biggest challenges to firefighter safety is the risk posed by heat stress.  It can cause many problems, from muscle fatigue and reduced cognitive function to cardiovascular strain and cardiac arrest.  Research has shown that more firefighters dies in the line of duty from cardiac arrest than any other cause. One of the paradoxes of firefighter protection is that structural firefighting garments designed to protect the wearer from heat and flame can potentially contribute to the rise in core body temperature that triggers heat stress. That’s why it is so important that the outer shell, which has a primary role of protecting from heat and flame, is designed to mitigate the risk of heat stress.

All PBI fabrics are designed to offer maximum thermal protection from the outside, while at the same time delivering high levels of breathability and comfort to reduce the risk of heat stress. They will not become brittle, shrink or break open when exposed to flame and high temperatures, which is among the characteristics of other fabrics. This means that the integrity of the internal layers of the garment is protected and the transfer of any radiant heat is slower, allowing more time for firefighters to escape to safety in a situation such as a flashover.

In the 40 years since opening for business in Charlotte, North Carolina, PBI Performance Products has created a reputation for protection without compromise that is recognised all over the world.

This article was originally published in the May edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here

Warwickshire invites residents to become on-call firefighters

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Warwickshire residents have been invited to sign up as on-call firefighters before May 12 with the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service in the UK.

On-call firefighters in Warwickshire perform a range of services including responding to incidents, prevention activities, supporting fire protection efforts and working with local communities. They do this while usually working a day job and maintaining a balance between the two roles.

On-call firefighters can earn between £5,000 to £8,000 annually, the county announced on its website.

On-call firefighters normally live within five minutes to their nearest station and respond as needed to calls during set shifts. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is offering a new option for on-call firefighters where residents living outside the five-minute response radius can work their day job from their local fire station when on-call and respond to calls as necessary. This setup would suit people formerly working in office roles who are now hybrid-working or working from home.

Warwickshire County Council’s spokesman for Fire and Rescue and Community Safety, Andy Crump, said: “On-call firefighters have a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, work in their local communities and develop themselves. I would heavily encourage anyone considering applying to do so – especially in Fenny Compton or Shipston-on-Stour where we currently have vacancies.

“In my opinion the ability to work from our fire stations means that many people who may have felt unable to apply previously can now do so. Please do submit your application if that sounds like you.”

Prospective recruits must be aged 18 and over, a team player, passionate about serving the community and willing to pick up new skills. They will receive an extensive training of course and be expected to attend a drill night once a week.

Candidates do not need any prior qualifications to apply for the role and anyone who considers themselves willing to work on their fitness and new skills should apply. On-call firefighters receive an annual wage plus additional payments for attending drill nights and incidents.

NFCC organises second convoy of UK fire service kits for Ukraine

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

A further convoy of UK fire service kit and equipment has now left the UK and is on its way to Ukraine to provide vital support to the Ukrainian firefighters who are hard pressed dealing with the throes of war.

The convoy which has been supported by the Home Office has been organised by UK charity FIRE AID and International Development, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the wider fire industry.

This second deployment to provide life-saving kit and equipment is even larger than the previous one which went out last month, with an amazing 21 vehicles making this journey.

Fire and rescue services from across the country have all donated firefighting equipment which have been requested by Ukraine, to help its fire and rescue service as they continue their life saving work in the most difficult conditions imaginable.

In total 100 fire stations and 250 fire engines have been destroyed in Ukraine with a number of firefighters tragically losing their lives as they battle to protect their country.

More than 60 UK firefighters will join FIRE AID volunteers as part of the team driving the vehicles across Europe, where it will be received by the Polish State Fire Service before it is transferred to Ukraine. 

Fire engines, helmets, thermal imaging cameras to assist when searching for people, generators, lighting, hose, rescue equipment, and thousands of sets of firefighting PPE are among the items being donated.

The deployment of these donations is being supported by funding from the Home Office, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, and the FIA Foundation.

Home Secretary, Priti Patel, said: “Our fire and rescue services are going above and beyond to support the effort in Ukraine and I am proud to once again support a convoy of fire service equipment being sent to those in desperate need. This is a phenomenal collaborative effort between our government, the NFCC, FIREAID and the fire sector and shows how together we can make a real difference to the lives of the people in Ukraine.”

Claire Hoyland, Project Manager, FIRE AID commented: “I speak with our Ukrainian partners and the State Emergency Services almost every day. Equipment is currently being destroyed, damaged, or lost on a huge scale as firefighters face unimaginable devastation on the frontlines. The way in which UK Fire Services and our members have mobilised to support them makes me so proud. EASST, in particular, has been a huge support, donating essential staff time and resources to make all this happen. Ukraine needs our help, and we will continue to offer it as long as we are able to.”

Ian Moore, Chief Executive, Fire Industry Association: “Once again, the whole of the fire industry has come together to support the UK deployment of aid through FIRE AID, our charity partner.

“To pull this together so quickly and efficiently is a truly collaborative humanitarian response from the UK.  Our members who have donated time, money and equipment have one aim; to work alongside our colleagues and help the firefighters in Ukraine.”

Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council Mark Hardingham said: “To see another convoy of this size go out is testament to the incredible hard work and determination of everyone who has been involved. It really has been a phenomenal effort and to see fire and rescue services, FIREAID, the sector and NFCC work together to achieve so much in such a short period of time is testament to everyone’s commitment and dedication.

“We continue to see horrific scenes unfold every day and this equipment will go some way to assist our Ukrainian colleagues as they continue with their biggest challenge to date, while putting their own lives at risk, with limited resources. Any help UK fire and rescue services can give, will be given gladly. The wider fire sector – including the MSA Safety, Fire Sector Federation (FSF), the Fire and Rescue Suppliers [FIRESA] Council and the Fire Industry Association (FIA) – are key partners in supporting and making the deployment.