Romain Chabert, CEO of Airstar Light, discusses the benefits behind lighting balloons
One of the major challenges of scene lighting is to guarantee the safety of the emergency teams with equipment that is easy, quick to install and both powerful and reliable. In this niche market of emergency lighting, there has been a powerful lighting solution for over 25 years, the Sirocco lighting balloon.
What is a lighting balloon?
A lighting balloon is more than just a “ball on a stick”. It is an LED light engine, protected by an inflated envelope made of technical textile, mounted on a stand or truck. Resistant to intensive uses, rain, wind and dust, the envelope provides a homogeneous diffusion of light at 360°, glare free and without cast shadow. The lighting of the area is progressive, gradually diminishing as you move away from the light source.
This type of equipment provides better visibility of the immediate work area and its surroundings, as well as a very good perception of the relief on uneven ground.
An innovation that matches firefighters innovation
After three years of R&D efforts, Airstar has launched a new range of lighting balloons, the Sirocco Redtech. These products are a real game-changer in the emergency lighting market. They are the most cost-effective, have the highest light output, the lowest power consumption , and they are physically the lightest.
The brand-new light engine has been totally re-designed and benefits from the latest and reliable LED technologies. It now offers the ability to drive the light with an application for smartphones. Users can dim the light, apply lighting effects such as beacon or pulse and switch on and off up to 250 balloons at the same time thanks to a Bluetooth connection.
For example, the powerful Sirocco 1300 Redtech from the M range puts out 132,000 lumens, lights up an area of 6,500m² (69,965ft²) for less than 10kg (22lbs). On its stand, that goes up to 5m (18ft), you turn night in to day in only 2 minutes.
Fully certified, the Redtech range currently consists of 4 M size lighting balloons, but we are already working on S, L and XL versions of the series. Until the next launches, our battery-operated (S range) and lighting tower (L range) products are still available.
In the latest product spotlight, International Fire and Safety Journal reviews the Dualie®2AA flashlight by lighting experts Streamlight
For on-scene responders, the importance of good quality lighting that delivers in the right areas cannot be understated. The equipment used needs to provide quick, reliable solutions that still maintains optimum performance whilst on scene. In terms of lighting solutions, quality lighting can often be the difference between a successful or unsuccessful mission.
In this article, we will review the Dualie®2AA, manufactured by lighting experts Streamlight. For this product, we firstly wanted to set out what would be important to the end user. Features such as operability, flexibility, reliability, run time and beam distance are just some specifications that are key for responders. Firstly, lets take a look at operability.
Dualie®operability
Firefighting crews are often faced with environments that require them to think, work and react fast in fire grounds that bring added danger to their role. For this reason, having equipment that is easy to use and handle is imperative for a successful mission. On this end, the Dualie®2AA seems to deliver an excellent solution for users. The flashlight has been built with one-handed operation in mind, and the end user has clearly been thought of from design to manufacture.
Dual head switches on either side of the body make the Dualie a versatile option for users. The beam selection and operation of the Dualie® 2AA also make it a versatile solution. Both beams are able to be used at the same time, further improving scene lighting and improving the field of vision whilst in operation. This feature is something Streamlight have designed to help operators avoid slips, trips and falls, and with the dual lighting, it is easy to see how user safety is improved whilst using the flashlight.
An integrated magnet at the tail end of the of the flashlight also means that hands-free operation is an option when maneuverability is key. For operability, the Dualie’s design and features means it gives users flexibility and the confidence that they are aware of their surroundings and its dangers, whilst also being able to carry out their task.
Dualie 2AA durability
A flashlight is one of the most common pieces of equipment used by responders, therefore it must be able to operate in dangerous environments and remain durable during operations. One thing that immediately sticks out when testing the flashlight is how lightweight, yet durable that it appeared. Weighing in at 3.90 ounces, it would be easy to sacrifice durability for a lighter product, but this is not the case with the Dualie® 2AA.
The 2AA comes with impact and chemical resistant Engineered Polymer resin v-ring sealed and vented, an unbreakable polycarbonate facecap and side lens with scratch resistant coating. The general feel of the Dualie® 2AA is sturdy yet light and small enough to carry on missions that need versatility. Overall, the compact design means that the flashlight is easy to operate and hold, whilst also still providing reliable lighting that can last through harsh environments.
Dualie 2AA performance
The previously mentioned dual lighting of the Dualie, which widens vision, uses both spot and flood light LED. With high lumens of 175, it should have come as no surprise that the flashlight shines bright. Even at its lowest lumen of 115, the flashlight delivers on its key objective of providing light when it matters most. For measure, the average iPhone flashlight has high lumens of 50. The beam distance is also something that stands out. Shining ahead at 111 meters, the Dualie® 2AA allows the user to see in to the distance, further improving visibility and safety on-scene by delivering extended lighting.
Final thoughts
Going back to some of the key specifications that users look for such as operability, flexibility, reliability, run time and beam distance, the Dualie delivers on all fronts. Its compact design makes it an essential tool for responders that are tasked with dealing with dangerous, hazardous environments. With an Operating temperature of between -20°F to 130°F, its flexibility reflects the true nature of the changing role of firefighters. The water resistant design means that floods and other incidents can be attended.
The run time of 24 hours means that for incidents in the darkest environments, the flashlight remains a vital tool throughout the mission. The design, which makes one handed operation easy, doesn’t sacrifice on quality despite its light weight feel.
Upon opening the Dualie® 2AA, many things stood out, but its versatility in its performance is perhaps its greatest asset. The Dualie® is one of the many lighting solutions provided by Streamlight, and with the company continuing to engage with end users to develop lighting solutions, user friendly solutions like the Dualie® 2AA are just the latest in a long list of products off the Streamlight line that have developed. For more information on the Dualie® 2AA and more lighting products produced by Streamlight, visit: https://www.streamlight.com/en
Streamlight, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting for firefighting uses, has launched the Vantage 180 X USB rechargeable system. The light, which can be mounted to full-brim fire helmets, and also used as a handheld or right-angle light, comes with a Streamlight SL-B26 USB rechargeable lithium ion battery with an integrated micro USB port and a charge cord. A Vantage® 180 X model with two CR123A batteries is also available.
The multi-function light securely attaches to helmets by means of an integrated stainless steel clip, designed for a variety of attachment methods and mounting positions. The “quick release” helmet bracket allows for easy detachment of the light from helmets, so that it can be used as a handheld or pocket light, or hooked to turnout gear. Featuring a main beam that delivers up to 250 lumens, the light’s 180-degree rotating head automatically changes an ultra-bright blue safety taillight to a white safety flood down light when the head is set at a 90-degree angle.
“The Vantage 180 X USB gives firefighters and other first responders a truly compact and versatile tool for operating in smoke-filled or extremely low light conditions, with flexible battery options for every situation,” said Streamlight Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Michael F. Dineen. “Users can charge the light’s SL-B26 lithium ion battery from any USB source, transforming it into a rechargeable system. Or they can use disposable cell batteries when a power source is not immediately available.”
Using either battery source, the Vantage 180 X USB provides 250 lumens, 7,200 candela peak beam intensity, and a 170-meter beam distance on the high setting. Run times range from 4-15 hours, depending on battery source and light mode. The light features a custom optic to provide a narrow beam with optimum peripheral illumination to aid in navigation. It is operated by using a body-mounted, push-button switch that allows for one-handed constant “on” operation.
Measuring 5.2 ounces high, the Vantage 180 X USB weighs 5.5 ounces using CR123A batteries and 5.9 ounces with a Streamlight SL-B26 USB rechargeable battery. It features a body constructed of high-impact, super-tough nylon, chemically resistant engineered polymer for exceptional durability and a sure grip. Featuring an IPX7 rated design for waterproof operation to one meter for 30 minutes, the light is also one-meter impact resistance-tested.
Product Features:
Lumens:
High: 250 lumens; Low: 100 Lumens
Battery:
Uses one Streamlight SL-B26™ protected Li-Ion rechargeable USB battery pack; also accepts two CR123A lithium batteries
Size:
5.20” (13.20cm)
Weight:
5.5oz. (156g)
Colour:
Orange or Black
The Vantage 180 X USB and the Vantage 180 X are available in safety orange with black tail cap and trim or all black. They have MSRPs of £108.48 and £93.89, respectively. Both come with Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Streamlight Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting devices, have launched a new intrinsically safe version of its Enduro Pro HAZ-LO headlamp, the Enduro Pro HAZ-LO ATEX. The new safety-rated model of the high-performance headlamp is ATEX and IECEx-certified for use in Zone 0 locations faced by many first responders.
“The Enduro Pro HAZ-LO ATEX is ideal in dangerous environments with potentially hazardous conditions that require flexible lighting options,” said Streamlight Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Michael F. Dineen. “For example, the flood LED is strategically placed high on the light to ensure shadow-free lighting when mounted on a hard hat. And the light’s 45° tilting head makes the headlamp easy to use in a variety of settings.”
Powered by easily sourced AAA batteries, the Enduro Pro HAZ-LO ATEX features two power LEDs and three output modes: spot, flood and a spot/flood combination for maximum brightness. On high, the headlamp’s spot beam delivers 160 lumens, 1,320 candela and a 73-metre beam distance; the flood beam offers 160 lumens and 100 candela over a 20-metre beam distance. The combined spot/flood setting provides 235 lumens. On spot or flood, the run time is 5 hours; in the combination mode, the run time is 4.75 hours.
The Enduro Pro HAZ-LO ATEX uses three AAA alkaline batteries, easily replaceable without tools by opening the light’s rear cover. The light features a case constructed from tough thermoplastic material with elastomer over mould and unbreakable polycarbonate lenses. The light includes an adjustable elastic head strap, and also comes with two additional options: a rubber strap and 3M Dual Lock re-closable fasteners for mounting on hard hats. The light is IPX7 rated and is waterproof to 1 metre for 30 minutes. It is impact-resistance tested to 2 metres.
Product Features:
Lumens:
High: 235 lumens (spot/flood combo)
Battery:
AAA Alkaline x 3
Size:
2.19” (5.56 cm) x 2” (5.08 cm) x 1.5” (3.81 cm)
Weight:
3.5oz. (99.22g)
Colour:
Orange
Available in in international safety orange, the Enduro Pro HAZ-LO ATEX headlamp has a MSRP of £44 and includes the Streamlight Limited Lifetime Warranty.
After a thorough research regarding the needs in the emergency lighting industry, every year Olympia Electronics create a unique and complete list of our Emergency Lighting products, where their customers can find their main codes. In addition, the catalogue is an important selling tool, cause you can see almost all the products by category with photos and all the necessary details required by an engineer.
Founded in 1979, Olympia Electronics is a world known European manufacturer. We are providing the market innovative solutions in the electronic safety and security systems industry that mainly includes products of emergency lighting, fire alarm, gas detectors, burglar alarm systems and more. Olympia Electronics is already exporting to 72 countries and selling products to all 5 continents all over the world, collaborating with established key players.
Honeywell and Signify have announced a strategic alliance to deploy integrated, smart lighting solutions for commercial buildings. Together, the companies aim to improve the occupant experience – focusing on productivity and well-being – and to reduce energy consumption.
The collaboration integrates Signify’s Interact connected smart lighting system and software, and its UV-C disinfection lighting, with Honeywell Building Management Systems and the Honeywell Forge enterprise performance management platform.
Signify offers additional elements to improve productivity and well-being. These elements include human-centric lighting, such as NatureConnect, and UV-C disinfection lighting. UV-C breaks down the DNA or RNA of micro-organisms, including viruses and bacteria, rendering them harmless. In laboratory testing, Signify’s UV-C light sources reduced SARS-CoV-2 virus infectivity on a surface to below detectable levels in as few as 9 seconds.[i]
Additionally, building owners and operators will be able to better manage their smart lighting systems and energy efficiency with smart LED lighting systems. Lighting represents 17% of all electricity used in U.S. commercial buildings according to the Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey,[ii] making it the largest end use of electricity in buildings. Similar usage rates are seen globally.[iii]
Signify’s connected LED smart lighting system Interact Office can save up to 70% of the energy used for lighting[iv] and deploying advanced building controls and sensing, like those from Honeywell, can save up to 30% in facility energy costs.[v]
“Increasingly we see lighting systems playing a critical role in buildings to improve occupant comfort, well-being and productivity; helping to meet energy savings goals outlined by regional government agendas. We anticipate this trend will continue to grow,” said George Bou Mitri, vice president and general manager, Honeywell Building Technologies, Middle East, Turkey and Africa.
Smart lighting will “help building owners improve environment”
“Our collaboration with Signify will enable our customers in the region to implement integrated lighting solutions, helping improve the occupant experience with customizable, personal lighting options that can be integrated into our Honeywell Forge and Building Management Systems platforms.”
“There are known benefits of how lighting can improve occupant experience and well-being,” said Harsh Chitale, leader of Signify’s Digital Solutions. “Many of our customers expect our solutions to deliver value beyond the scope of lighting.
“We look forward to capitalizing on this collaboration with Honeywell to jointly develop products and systems that provide greater value to our customers. We aim to deliver end-user benefits to building occupants, such as increased well-being and productivity, while providing channel partners with products that are easier to commission and maintain.”
The integrated Honeywell and Signify products can support the needs of any building and feature specific solutions for premium commercial buildings, airports, hospitality, healthcare, education, retail and stadia sectors. Honeywell and Signify are also currently deploying the integrated solutions, including Signify’s Philips UV-C disinfection upper air luminaires, in several Honeywell global offices.
Honeywell’s Healthy Buildings solutions help building owners improve their building environments, operate more cleanly and safely, comply with social distancing policies, and help reassure occupants that it is safer to return to the workplace.
By integrating air quality, safety and security technologies along with advanced analytics, Honeywell’s Healthy Buildings solutions are designed to help building owners minimize potential risks of contamination and improve business continuity by monitoring both the building environment and building occupants’ behaviors.
For more information on the smart lighting solutions, and a wider range of other solutions offered by Honeywell and Signify, visit their respective websites:
