Posts in category: Products

As our planet’s climate increasingly reveals the devastating impact caused by human emissions of greenhouse gasses since the mid-20th century, life as we know it is changing on a global scale. Considered by many to be one of the defining issues of our time, climate change is not only an environmental problem. It is an economical, industrial, political and technological matter of increasing urgency, as is seen by its impact on the fire and rescue industry.

Flooding, earthquakes, wildfires and cyclones are on the rise, and based on evidence that emergency services are increasingly called upon to aid and rescue in these dangerous scenarios, they need to be equipped with gear that is optimised and adaptable for new and potentially unexplored applications.

GALLET F2XR: A versatile solution

The new GALLET F2XR from MSA has been developed to equip fire and rescue services for a variety of rescue missions. It is tested and certified to the highest standards for forest firefighting, technical rescue, rescue at height and water rescue (on both motorised and non-motorised rescue boats). The F2XR is an adaptable and comfortable helmet platform that is suitable for a wide range of applications and needs, be it for professional or volunteer firefighters, thanks to interchangeable and customisable.

The rescue helmet is equipped with innovative components that provide excellent protection and comfort in different environments, such as the integrated ocular protection visor with adjustable face fitting or the integrated dual-beam headlamp, which was developed to provide effective illumination especially during longer and challenging missions. It enables short-range illumination as well as a spot beam for illuminating a target in the distance. The three-colour rear light for quick identification of different teams further enhances the safety of the user.

The improved Responder goggles, face protection, ear protection for water rescue operations, neck protection, as well as active and passive hearing protection are further convincing accessories, which can all be quickly attached to the helmet and are easily adjustable with gloves for both right-handed and left-handed users.

To ensure optimum air circulation and keep the wearer cool in high ambient temperatures, the GALLET F2XR has been equipped with a double ventilation shell pattern.

To learn more about the GALLET F2XR from MSA, click here.

Speedpanel, part of the Speedclad group of businesses, has developed a range of insulated composite spandrel panels that provide both extremely quick building encapsulation and fire-retardant properties in accordance with the latest regulations. Notably, the company worked in close liaison with adhesive expert Henkel to identify the optimum flame-retardant bonding product for the panels.

In a construction market still reeling from the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, the resulting Speedpanel A2 Glass and Speedpanel A2 Aluminium carry an independently certified fire rating of A2-s1 d0, creating a huge USP for the company and opening up vast market potential in both new build and replacement façade projects.

Speedpanel insulated composite panels use adhesives to bond various materials together. However, achieving the required A2-s1 d0 fire rating for the panel was to prove challenging as many adhesives feature solvents, isocyanates or PVC, all of which are highly flammable.

“For this reason, we opted to partner with Henkel, to develop a panel construction using a flame-retardant adhesive,” says Fraser Brown, Regional Director at Speedclad. “As a result of our collaboration we now have a suite of industry-first aluminium and glass-faced spandrel panels that have been independently tested by WarringtonFire to achieve A2-s1 d0, in accordance with BS EN 13501-1 2018.”

Looking to ban the use of combustible material in the external walls of certain high-rise buildings in England, the Government added Regulation 7(2) to the Building Regulations In November 2018. It states: “Building work shall be carried out so that materials which become part of an external wall, or specified attachment, of a relevant buildingare of European Classification A2-s1 d0 or Class A1 classified.”

Generally, all materials should comply with a minimum fire classification of A2 s3 d2. However, if a building falls within the ‘relevant building’ class, this fire classification is redundant and all materials need to be A2-s1 d0 rated, effectively a higher level of classification. ‘Relevant buildings’ include residential and institutional buildings more than 18m high.

In terms of composition, Speedpanel products feature a combination of various steel trays, insulated cores, proprietary interlayers and front faces. Any composite panel built of several materials and sold as a single panel – even if the materials are individually A1 fire-certified (as is the case with Speedpanel) – will require re-certification as the complete panel.

Speedpanel approached several leading adhesive manufactures to help it meet requirements. Although a number were prepared to offer solutions that “might” succeed, Henkel differentiated itself by working with Speedpanel to understand the particular application demands.

Following research and trials, Henkel today supplies two types of adhesive for different bonding tasks within the Speedpanel products. Furthermore, Henkel made proposals in terms of suitable application methods that would optimise adhesive quantity and delivery speed: everything from automated spraying to simple pour and spread.

“Without doubt, Henkel’s input and technical support throughout the development process proved fundamental to the success we now have,” concludes Fraser. “The potential for Speedpanel is truly huge. In addition to traditional builds, there is the enormous BSF [Building Safety Fund] framework, where Speedpanel can provide a key part of the solution.”

For more information go to: www.henkel-adhesives.co.uk and www.speedclad.co.uk

Dräger, an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology, has launched the Dräger PSS AirBoss, the next generation in Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) that provides firefighters and emergency service teams with the utmost in usability, safety, serviceability, and connectivity.

It was officially launched at the global virtual DrägerUp event where Dräger demonstrated how PSS AirBoss represents a digital progression with telemetry and connectivity providing the information and enabling the integration and communication required to further firefighter health and wellbeing.

Dräger’s PSS AirBoss includes a carrying mechanism with pneumatics, monitoring systems, masks and communication technology and numerous accessories such as the ultra-lightweight Type 4 Nano compressed air breathing cylinders, lung demand valves and fire escape hoods. Three models will be available: PSS AirBoss Active providing the lowest weight; PSS AirBoss Agile with increased safety features; and PSS AirBoss Connect, providing maximum situational awareness for the firefighter.

With the new Type 4 Nano cylinder providing a continued reduction in cylinder weight, all new SCBA sets are significantly lighter than existing SCBA models, and its unlimited life can also reduce full lifecycle costs.

State of the art ergonomics is a vital feature of the Dräger PSS AirBoss evolution. Improved wearer comfort has been achieved by shifting the centre of gravity relationship between the human body and the set and creating a ventilated space by the SCBA backplate. It is also improved through a pivoting waist belt and three-step height adjustments.

PSS AirBoss’ weight is carried by the legs and pelvis rather than the back. This not only improves personal comfort, but also enhances mobility within confined spaces, while descending ladders and stairwells and in any situation which requires a high level of mobility.

On a practical level, the Dräger PSS AirBoss has also been designed to be ‘snag-proof’, ensuring that all attachments are neatly connected or integrated to mitigate any risk of snagging or entanglement. Easy cylinder exchange has been achieved through the Quick Connect function and all key components are fitted with RFID tags for ease of asset management.

Also critical to the Dräger PSS AirBoss system is digitalisation. Dräger provides the only operationally-proven telemetry solution in the UK, delivering vital information which is automatically communicated between the wearer of the BA set and the Entry Control Point – without the need for either team to stop what they are doing to communicate. These signals include manual and automatic distress signals, team withdrawal and evacuation signals to and from the wearer, cylinder pressure, time to whistle and time of whistle. 

This system also provides comprehensive data regarding the firefighters’ condition in relation to their SCBA, proving invaluable to those responsible for monitoring and directing BA crews. A new feature, unique to Dräger’s PSS AirBoss, are ‘Buddylights’ fitted to the backplate, which use digital data from the set to provide immediate and highly visible signalling to firefighters of their team’s cylinder pressures and physical condition.

Connectivity is an important aspect to Dräger’s new solution. An Entry Control Officer requires live information from all SCBA wearers of all entry points and to know they are accounted for in any scenario. Dräger’s accountability system accomplishes this.

The optional Dräger Web client enables workshop, management and command staff to utilise the

data created on scene wherever they are. The only requirement is a connection to the Base station, which uses Wi-Fi or LTE to access data stored on Dräger’s Cloud. Authorised personnel can then remotely monitor the incident and access the full incident log at any time.

An additional benefit, you can easily customise reporting for multiple purposes, from user or device history to synchronised overviews of complete incidents. The ability to create tactical and evidence-based incident reports provides comprehensive and valuable analysis post incident, essential for debriefing and training purposes – or as required for any investigation or inquiry.

Cleaning has been made simpler by designing smoother, non-absorbent, water-repellent surfaces to make equipment easier to wipe down and decontaminate. Reduced webbing material allows for faster drying and numerous attachment points mean kit can easily be dismantled for optimum cleaning – both mechanically and by hand.

In recognition of the financial pressures which the fire services are under, PSS AirBoss enables fire services to maximise the significant investment already made into their SCBA and telemetry. With a modular design, PSS AirBoss is backward compatible with existing Dräger PSS SCBA and telemetry, enabling elements of the existing set to be upgraded over time. This reduces the requirement to purchase a full suite of new equipment including telemetry, pneumatics, electronics, integrated communications, cylinders and vehicle charging systems.

Liz Millward, Marketing Manager Emergency and Rescue Services at Draeger Safety UK says PSS AirBoss should not be considered a standalone product, but a connected solution:

“PSS AirBoss has been ten years in development, during which time we have utilised medical, physiological and safety expertise and thoroughly tested technology. We have used not only our direct relationships with the UK fire services and global expert third parties including universities, but also our support of emergency events such as Grenfell and the Salisbury poisonings to make sure PSS AirBoss has been designed with real life firefighting experience in mind,” she explains. 

“PSS AirBoss’ improvements reduce firefighters’ physical stress, which in turn reduces the risk of strain-related injuries and fatigue when wearing the set operationally, as well as extending potential working duration due to reduced physical exertion.

“In an industry where a split second can be the difference between life and death, these advancements are crucial for the safety of our firefighters.”

HAIX®, specialist manufacturer of functional safety footwear, understands that workers in the emergency services need, and deserve, personal protective equipment (PPE) that prioritises safety without compromising on comfort. The new Rescue One, manufactured in Europe using industry-leading techniques and high-grade materials, can keep up with the high levels of support and protection that the job demands.

Chemical and thermal exposure and sole penetration from sharp objects on the ground are just some of the hazards faced by those in the emergency services sector. The safety boot’s non-marking outer sole is resistant to heat, oil and gasoline. Constructed from high-quality materials, including 2.2mm thick waterproof and hydrophobic leather, the Rescue One is metal-free and offers all-round safety with an anatomically formed and ultralight protective toe cap.

The safety boot features a sturdy rubber/PU sole, providing wearers with a confident grip in slippery underfoot environments while ensuring exceptional impact absorption and correct heel-to-toe movement.

The Rescue One is equipped with cutting-edge GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® laminate technology, offering superior penetration protection against pathogens found in blood and body fluids as well as common chemicals. The highly breathable material allows sweat vapour to escape from inside the garment during physically demanding activities, helping feet stay dry and fresh.

To further support optimum foot temperature, the HAIX® Climate System uses the pumping movement of every step to circulate cool air into the boot via vent holes in the top, ensuring professionals stay focussed on the task at hand. The leather incorporates Sun Reflect Technology, allowing the feet to stay cool under direct sunlight, essential for long summer shifts in black boots.

For maximum wearer comfort, the Rescue One has a cushioning system that provides support while improving endurance. The system makes sure toes and joints have sufficient space, helping to relieve pressure points and prevent feet from becoming sore or fatigued. HAIX® understands that incorrect boot sizing can have adverse health effects and the potential for injury. The women’s version of the Rescue One has been designed

and manufactured based on a special last to suit a woman’s foot shape. Additionally, the HAIX® Vario Wide Fit System accounts for the fact that an individual’s foot anatomy is unique, ensuring the width of the Rescue One can be individually adjusted by three different insoles, improving wearer comfort and foot health.

The safety footwear features a side zipper to make putting the boots on and taking them off faster and easier, so wearers are not at risk of potential injury or wasted time when an emergency requires their critical assistance. The practical radio-frequency identification (RFID) pocket in the boot offers space for an RFID chip to simplify the management of PPE.

“We understand the harsh conditions emergency service workers face. While safety and protection are a priority – it’s vital that wearers feel that their PPE is comfortable and supportive,” says Simon Ash, HAIX® UK sales manager. “The Rescue One is specifically engineered to keep workers safe, comfortable and engaged for longer so that they can focus on the emergency at hand.”

The NFCC Protection Policy and Reform Unit have announced the launch of a new learning portal for protection-based fire and rescue service staff has today gone live.

The NFCC and the Local Authority Building Control (LABC) collaborated to help fire safety regulators and fire engineers to gain access to training materials through the new learning portal.

The platform will be utilised to upload training materials for FRS as part of the national learning and guidance work that has now started and provide access to a back catalogue of over 100 existing LABC fire-safety related articles.

It will provide certificates for e-learning packages completed within the virtual learning environment which will also help fire services to demonstrate their commitment to continuing professional development in line with the competency framework recommendations. Importantly, this collaboration will provide a better understanding of the ‘cross-over’ issues faced by both parties in carrying out their regulatory functions.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said “I am pleased to see the launch of this learning platform for our protection-based staff. Fire and rescue services are committed to do everything they can to make buildings safer and creating this partnership is the next step in a journey to enhance competency across the UK.”

NFCC will now work with LABC and fire and rescue services over the coming weeks to ensure the system is successfully implemented within their organisations.

The latest iteration of the AlertAlarm, the AlertAlight and the Sonora families E2S Warning Signals will be available from 01 June 2021, the company have announced. The alarm horn sounders, beacons and combined units have become synonymous with providing reliable and effective alarm notification in the harshest of environments since the original A100, A105, A110 and A120 product range was launched nearly 30 years ago. E2S have continued to innovate, providing improvements in features, performance and approvals.

Upgrades have been introduced to both the enclosures and electronics to create the universal solution for industrial, marine and ordinary location applications. The AlertAlarm and AlertAlight products now contain the standard E2S set of 64 international alarm tones and 4 remotely activated stages/channels. First and second stage tones can be set individually, permitting greater flexibility in tone choice. Voltage supply ranges have been extended to assist with product selection whilst current in-rush has been minimised. Pluggable, duplicated terminals facilitate Class A wiring and reduce installation time.

The A100 sounders and the AL100 combined units now produce up to 110dBA, whilst the industry standard A105N/AL105N now utilises a new enclosure design with threaded cable entries to simplify installation. A112N/AL112N and A121/AL121 type products now contain the latest in Class D amplification and feature additional methods of stage control along with up to 124dB(A) sound level output. A choice of two power modes is available during installation, enabling the optimum level of current consumption and sound output to be selected for the application.

The L101H has been upgraded to include a new electronic sub-assembly using an array of 18 super bright Cree LED’s and offering a choice of steady mode and seven flashing modes, including a new highly effective temporal pattern. The L101H LED upgrade includes UL and ULC private mode fire approval and is available as a combination signal with any of the AlertAlarm or Sonora type alarm horn sounders.

Globally approved to UL and EN standards for fire and general signalling, core products are also now DNV approved and MED compliant to the latest directive for marine applications across all voltages. Third party approvals are provided by default across the ranges to ensure compliance with the latest standards and directives wherever the application is located.

With the lightweight and portable VULCAN® 180 HAZ-LO® ATEX, leaders in emergency lighting Streamlight® have produced an essential firefighting and utility tool for first responders. The multi-functional and rechargeable high-performance lantern, designed for use in hazardous environments features a 24-hour run time on low, a 180° articulating head and two ultra-bright blue taillights for visibility in thick smoke.

The VULCAN® 180 HAZ-LO® ATEX is the ideal lantern for working in dangerous environments such as those with smoke, industrial hazards or inclement weather. Including a triangular-shaped face cap and rotating head, the light uses three white power LEDs for extreme brightness.

Three deep-dish parabolic reflectors produce a tight spot beam with optimum peripheral illumination to aid in navigation, while two ultra-bright blue LEDs illuminate the lantern’s taillights. The flat base area also allows the light to stand on its own for scene lighting. It delivers 400 lumens, 25,000 candela, a 316m beam distance, and a run time of 10 hours on the high setting. On low, it provides 130 lumens, 8,000 candela, a 128-metre beam distance, and a run time of 24 hours.  

Speaking upon the announcement of its release, Streamlight® Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Michael F. Dineen said: “With its 180° articulating head, first responders and other users can aim the light beam precisely where it is needed for task lighting purposes. And because it is powered by a lithium ion battery, it is one of the lightest-weight lanterns in its category.”

Click here for further information.

Vulcan 180 HAZ-LO ATEX specifications