Posts in category: Products

Reach and Rescue has received the Queen’s Award for Innovation for its long-reach telescopic water rescue pole – an innovation which celebrated a decade of saving lives in 2020.

The self-developed long-reach telescopic water rescue pole is the only one of its kind worldwide. It enables emergency services, search and rescue teams and members of the public to conduct swift, directionally accurate rescues by retrieving casualties from safe distances. The pole minimises the danger posed to the rescuer whilst also boosting casualty survival chances.

The pole was developed in response to UK Fire and Rescue Services’ need for effective water rescue equipment designed to keep their operatives safe. Prior to the pole’s introduction, rescuers would dive into water when attempting to save a life in danger, thereby putting themselves at extreme risk. To date, Reach and Rescue’s long-reach telescopic water rescue pole has prevented the deaths of 50+ people from life threatening situations. Testament to the pole’s success, it is currently adopted by 80% of UK Fire and Rescue Services and is supplied to over 50 countries worldwide.

Innovation Vital to Reach and Rescue’s Queen’s Award for Innovation Success

“Creating innovative and bespoke rescue equipment designed to keep operatives safe is at the heart of what we do” says Reach and Rescue Director Jo Taylor MBE. “Our passion is taking an idea and transforming it via our state-of-the-art design process into a product that overcomes the real-world challenges faced by rescuers every day. That’s innovation.”

Having the spirit of innovation built-in to their DNA enables Reach and Rescue to continually produce effective solutions for their customers. For instance, the pole’s range of interchangeable attachments allows rescuers to meet the specific needs of any particular rescue situation by fixing the most appropriate tool for the job. This inherent versatility in the pole’s design serves as a platform for continuous innovation. Jo continues: “Our ethos is the same today as it was a decade ago – address the needs of our customers. They’re on the frontline; they encounter new, unique and sometimes dangerous situations every day. Through open dialogue with our customers, we can address their issues and develop new solutions which ultimately alleviate the dangers they face.”

Of course, as the company continuously broadens its range, so too does the skills of its workforce. Production Manager Gavin Winstanley states: “due to the lifesaving application of our products, it’s incredibly important that our rescue poles are manufactured to the highest possible standards and quality by our skilled and talented production team.”

What Does Winning a Queen’s Award Mean for the Team?

Reach and Rescue’s Marketing Manager Stuart Glover says: “With the Queen’s Award for Enterprise being an internationally recognised accolade, the marketing potential for us is phenomenal. Moreover though, it’s the sense of pride that comes with such a grand award, essentially affirming that what you’re doing is saving lives. That’s most important.”

Kane Shaw, an apprentice in the production department echoes this sentiment: “How many apprentices out there can say that the work they do actually saves people’s lives. It’s amazing.”

Sales Managers Victoria Owen and Stacey Williams both feel the prestige offered by an internationally recognised award will prove invaluable as Reach and Rescue continues to expand its global reach. “The Royal seal of approval will undoubtably reinforce the confidence our international customers have in the quality of our rescue equipment,” says Victoria. “It provides an immense amount of confidence for our overseas distribution partners too,” adds Stacey. “Opening the door to new international markets in need of our rescue equipment has now gotten a little bit easier.”

Reach and Rescue’s innovation is readily available for the public to use as well. Their lifesaving public-access water rescue system – the Portsafe – features the pole securely stored with an emergency throwline board. Numerous systems are located at high-risk public waterways across the UK.

Honeywell is launching its gas cloud imaging (GCI) system in Europe to provide automated and continuous monitoring for leaks of dangerous and polluting gases such as methane at oil and gas, chemical and power generation facilities across the continent.

Reducing gas emissions such as methane from hydrocarbon operations is one the most cost-effective and impactful methods to help reach global climate and environmental goals, according to the International Energy Agency. Methane is more than 80 times more potent in trapping heat than carbon dioxide after 20 years, according to the Environmental Defense Fund.

Part of the Honeywell Rebellion gas cloud imaging product portfolio, the Mini GCI system is a compact device designed for congested areas and small sites, which is ideal for many facilities in Europe. The Mini GCI systems can be placed throughout an industrial facility to continuously monitor for gas leaks and provide alerts as soon as they occur.

The system, powered by proprietary hyperspectral gas analytics using artificial intelligence, provides facility operators with an easy-to-interpret, colored visualization of the gas plume type, location, direction, size and concentration. This allows for an earlier and more effective response before leaks have the chance to grow into bigger emissions or safety issues.

“To help address global climate change, energy companies are establishing goals to effectively manage methane emissions,” said Renaud Mazarguil, president of Honeywell’s Gas Analysis and Safety business. “Deploying Honeywell’s gas cloud imaging system allows companies to continuously and accurately monitor for significant methane leaks and quickly prioritize repairs. Installing GCI devices can also help address the goals set forth in the European Commission’s methane strategy.”

Honeywell’s gas cloud imaging system has been deployed by more than 25 major energy and chemicals customers globally.

Honeywell is also developing new, advanced methane quantification capabilities for its system, which will enable customers to more effectively measure methane gas emissions.

Current gas leak detection methods require workers to periodically inspect a site with handheld thermal imaging cameras to identify leak sources and arrange for repairs. This approach is time consuming, subject to human errors and can only detect a leak at a specific moment in time when the technician is in the field.

Honeywell’s system provides continuous monitoring and offers real-time analytics to see and measure concentrations of the leaked gases. Using hyperspectral sensors, the system can see an “optical fingerprint” of the gas cloud, which makes it possible to differentiate multiple gas types.

Honeywell recently committed to achieve carbon neutrality in its operations and facilities by 2035. This commitment builds on the company’s track record of sharply reducing the greenhouse gas intensity of its operations and facilities as well as its decades-long history of innovation to help its customers meet their environmental and social goals. About half of Honeywell’s new product introduction research and development investment is directed toward products that improve environmental and social outcomes for customers.

Honeywell Safety and Productivity Solutions (SPS) provides products, software and connected solutions that improve productivity, workplace safety and asset performance for our customers across the globe. We deliver on this promise through industry-leading mobile devices, software, cloud technology and automation solutions, the broadest range of personal protective equipment and gas detection technology, and custom-engineered sensors, switches and controls. For more information, please visit: sps.honeyewell.com.

E2S Warning Signals, global leader in audible and visual notification devices, has introduced the next generation of its M range industrial alarm horn sounders. The new MA1F and the MA2F employ the enclosure and mounting as previous MA112 and MA121 versions but now feature enhanced electronics containing the latest in D Class amplifier technology, with lower in-rush current, wider voltage range, lower current consumption and improved alarm tone choice and control.

The MA1F uses a standard directional flare horn; the MA1R features the innovative E2S ‘1R’ omni-directional horn that is particularly suitable for applications requiring a compact device. For higher sound output requirements, the new MA2H alarm horn sounder utilises the new E2S ‘2H’ super high output flare horn, which is engineered to maximise audible signalling performance across the widest range of frequencies at a sound level of up to 130dB(A). View the full specification details here.

The alarm horn sounder DC voltage range is now extended from 10 to 60VDC, and the AC versions have a universal power supply accepting inputs from 100 to 240VAC. Higher voltage DC versions are available on request. The MA1 versions are factory set to a low current consumption of only 224mA at 24VDC with a sound output of 117dB(A). The MA2 versions feature two user selectable power modes that provide the optimum combinations of current consumption and sound output: 391mA and 126dB(A) to 888mA and 130dB(A).

A total of four remotely selectable alarm stages/channels are standard and can be activated by a variety of methods. A new set of 64 alarm tone frequencies can be independently set as either first or second stage. Pluggable, duplicated cable terminals simplify installation.

Combined audible/visual units also benefit from the next generation sounder electronics – the MC1X05 with Xenon strobe beacon and MC1LD2 with high output LED.

All units feature robust, thermoplastic fire-retardant enclosures with 316 (A4) stainless steel mounting brackets – ideal for applications in harsh environments where Type 4/4X/13/3R IP66/67 protection is required.

Allison Transmission, a leading designer and manufacturer of conventional, hybrid and electric vehicle propulsion solutions, in collaboration with Emergency One (UK) Ltd, the market leader in the United Kingdom in the manufacture, service and support of fire and rescue vehicles, is pleased to announce a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The two companies will integrate the Allison eGen Power™ 100D electric axle into Emergency One’s fire rescue and emergency vehicle platform as part of this MoU. This builds on the successful relationship to date, where 90% of the units Emergency One sells are equipped with an Allison fully automatic transmission.

“We are pleased to formalise our collaboration with Allison Transmission on the integration of their eGen Power electric axles into our E1 EV platform (our “EV0” appliances). This is another critical step in our drive to deliver reduced emissions and carbon footprint, whilst improving vehicle performance and firefighter and public safety.

We are focussed on producing electric fire and rescue vehicles that not only meet but exceed the current specifications and operational performance” said Mike Madsen, Managing Director at Emergency One. “Whether our conventional diesel-powered vehicles or our next generation electric propulsion platform, our mutual customers expect reliable and durable solutions that the Emergency One and Allison partnership delivers on a daily basis. I’m confident we’ll continue to deliver that promise.”

The eGen Power 100D electric axle integrates two high-speed electric motors and a multi-speed transmission, eliminating the need for additional drive shafts and support structures. This allows it to fit easily between the wheels, leaving critical space for battery storage.

With continuous power of 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and peak output power of 738 horsepower (550 kilowatts), the eGen Power 100D is among the most powerful propulsion solutions in its class, with an architecture tuned for high gradeability and high top speed without sacrificing efficiency. This ensures Emergency One’s fire and rescue trucks will continue to deliver incomparable performance and reliability, fast acceleration and manoeuvrability in an application where failure is not an option, and every second counts.

“This is an exciting development for our eGen Power portfolio of products, as we continue to expand our electrified product portfolio in support of our promise to provide the most reliable and valued propulsion solutions in the world,” said Heidi Schutte, Vice President of EMEA, APAC, and South America Sales for Allison Transmission.

“We are pleased to continue our longstanding partnership with Emergency One in delivering innovative solutions for our mutual customers, including many fire brigades and rescue teams across Europe. The Allison 3000 Series™ is the standard transmission offering in Emergency One’s conventional diesel-powered fire and rescue vehicles, so it’s natural to expect Emergency One and Allison to partner and bring the same proven performance, reliability, and durability to Emergency One’s electric fire and rescue trucks.”

Allison’s eGen Power 100D is the first in a lineup of electric axles that will be rated for torque, GVW, and varying chassis frame widths.

MSA and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) are working together to provide the most innovative and up-to-date technology to help first responders improve their health and safety. That’s why three volunteer firefighters that are NVFC members will receive a personalized MSA Cairns® XF1 Fire Helmet in 2021.

The first winner is Chief Scott Jandrew of the Mountain View Fire Department in Hickory, NC. Chief Jandrew joined the Mountain View Fire Department in July of 1994. He has held the positions of firefighter, department secretary, lieutenant, captain, deputy chief, and assumed the position of fire chief in January of 2020. Chief Jandrew has an associate degree in business management and certifications in NC Firefighter I & II, NC Fire Officer I & II, NC Fire Instructor II, NC EMT, as well as courses in incident command and leadership.

There will be two more opportunities to enter to win an MSA Cairns® XF1 Fire Helmet this year. One firefighter will be awarded one helmet via random selection with each entry period. Participants must be a volunteer firefighter and a member of the NVFC at their time of entry.

The jet-style design of the Cairns XF1 Fire Helmet reduces snag hazards, provides a personalized fit, and houses its own integrated light module. Plus, the soft goods are removable, washable, and replaceable.

The next entry period opens on June 1. Stay tuned to the NVFC web site and newsletter for details. Learn more about the helmet and giveaway at www.nvfc.org/helmet.

Ferrara Fire Apparatus, a subsidiary of REV Group, and a leading manufacturer of fire apparatus, is pleased to announce that Jones County (Mississippi) Fire Service has selected Ferrara to provide the city with three (3) FC-94 Custom Pumpers and three (3) Freightliner® commercial pumpers.

Key features of the FC-94 Top Mount Custom Pumpers include:

• 94” wide, extended medium aluminum cab with a 10” raised roof
• Cummins 380 hp engine
• Allison 3000 EVS™ transmission
• Meritor® axles
• 3/16” modular aluminum double high side rescue body
• Roller shutter compartment doors
• 1,000 gallon polypropylene water tank
• Hale QFlo 1250 gpm pump
• FoamPro® 1600 foam system with 20-gallon foam cell

Key features of the Freightliner pumpers include:

• Freightliner M2-106 four-door chassis
• 3/16” modular aluminum double high side rescue body
• Cummins 350 hp engine
• Roller shutter compartment doors
• 1,000 gallon polypropylene water tank
• Hale QFlo 1250 gpm pump

According to Jones County Fire Coordinator Kyle Brooks, this order is for replacement trucks. He said the department chose the Ferrara FC-94 due to its great price point and the county’s previous work with Ferrara.

“Being able to get a custom pumper in that price range was a main determining factor,’’ Brooks said. “We’ve also been very satisfied with the Ferrara fire trucks we’ve purchased in the past. It was a unanimous decision to go with Ferrara. These trucks are really going to benefit Jones County.”

Brooks said Jones County Fire Service is comprised of 18 volunteer departments, one combination department and one full-time department.

“We appreciate Jones County Fire Service continuing to trust in Ferrara for their fire apparatus needs,” said Bert McCutcheon, Vice President and General Manger for Ferrara. “We know these six trucks will meet the specific needs of this department as they serve and protect the citizens of Jones County.”

C-TEC has launched an innovative new vibrating pillow pad alarm. Designed to warn the hearing impaired of a potential fire alarm or evacuation alert condition, the BF320 vibrates and pulses on and off when triggered as per the requirements of BS 5446-3.

Featuring a wide 10-30V DC voltage range, the stylishly compact device is ideal for residential, leisure and commercial projects and can be used in conjunction with the BF320JP, a new connection plate which allows it to be connected to the sounder circuit of a compatible conventional fire alarm system and also to C-TEC’s new evacuation alert system.

Said Brian Foster, C-TEC’s UK Sales Manager: “Our new vibrating pillow pad alarm and connection plate are just two of the exciting new products we’ve recently designed for use with all C-TEC’s commercial fire alarm systems, EVAC-ALERT, our new evacuation alert system and Hush ActiV, our revolutionary new BS 5839-6 Grade C domestic fire systems for flats, apartments and other residential buildings.”

For more information, contact C-TEC on +44 (0) 1942 322744 or visit www.c-tec.com.

Pepperl+Fuchs is Expanding its Product Portfolio for Ultrasonic Sensors in the Area of Factory Automation with the Safe USi-safety Ultrasonic Sensor System.

The innovative USi-safety ultrasonic sensor system is a modern and certified sensor technology that is used to safeguard hazard areas on mobile machines such as robots, industrial trucks, machines, and plants according to EN ISO 13849-1 category 3 PL d.

The USi-safety system protects people and objects from potential dangers and collisions. This ultrasonic sensor ensures the safety of personnel and takes its place in the range of electro-sensitive protective devices.

The only ultrasonic sensor system of its kind in the world is characterized by its flexibility and wide range of applications. Up to two small, freely positionable ultrasonic sensor units can be positioned, connected, and
parameterized flexibly and geometrically regardless of the electronics.

The safety function is provided with only one sensor unit, i.e., without redundancy. They can be integrated in confined spaces and reliably detect
moving and stationary objects with any shape, color, or surface in an elliptical, three-dimensional sound field of up to two and a half meters.

Dirt, temperature, air flow, and humidity have no impact on the function of the sensor. This makes it an excellent choice for almost all applications in the industry and outdoors. The sensor system is set up using convenient parameterization software. Each connected sensor unit comes with two
short-circuit and cross-circuit-monitored OSSD safety outputs.

Responding to the scene of a drug overdose can be challenging for many reasons. Depending on the suspected drug involved, protocols can vary greatly and present various levels of risk for first responders on the scene. The ability to quickly and accurately detect and identify controlled substances in the field provides first responders with the capability to respond according to established protocols, while keeping themselves safe.

Since launching the MX908, 908 Devices has deployed approximately 1,100 MX908’s into every U.S. State, in 34 countries and across five continents. More than 5,000 operators, in numerous domestic and foreign government agencies, have been trained to use the MX908. The MX908 is relied heavily upon by elite responders for HAZMAT, CBRNE, and chemical warfare agent detection, and recently an important use has been for detecting trace levels of synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl.

The MX908 makes detecting trace levels of street drugs simple with the Drug Hunter Mission Mode. This mode can detect invisible amounts of material that are present on a surface such as labware, a pill press, or a vehicle. It can also detect street drugs which have been heavily cut with benign substances like lactose or mannitol, or even other drugs like heroin or cocaine which are much less toxic than fentanyl.

A recent case in Southern New England demonstrated the capability of the MX908 compared to other detection and identification methods. A HAZMAT team responded to the scene of a fatal overdose by syringe injection. A 1-gram bag of light tan powder was found at the residence and the team initiated their standard protocol for testing. They used several testing methods and achieved the following results:

1. FTIR- Lactose (common cutting agent). FTIR is unable to see through the bulk cutting agent and identify trace levels of narcotics. So, no actionable intelligence was gained.
2. Fentanyl Test Strips- A positive presumptive result for fentanyl was indicated, and the responders then turned to their MX908 for confirmation and identification of any other potential targets.
3. MX908- Confirmed Fentanyl Analog w/ minor indications of caffeine and acetaminophen. The user was able to export the necessary data to perform a Reachback.

The HAZMAT team sent their results to our 24/7/365 Reachback Service for immediate analysis and reporting to the on-scene law enforcement officers. The report clearly indicated the presence of fentanyl in the measured mass spectral image. This rapid feedback allowed the HAZMAT team and on-scene responders to proceed safely and accordingly with their investigation.

The MX908 Drug Hunter Mission Mode can detect more than 2000 fentanyl variants along with other high-priority controlled substances. With the enhanced sensitivity of the MX908, users can conduct field analysis of unknown substances at trace levels to generate actionable intelligence in real time.

RapidDeploy, a cloud-based emergency response platform, today announced the hiring of Tim Melton as Senior Vice President of Sales. In his new role, Melton will continue RapidDeploy’s growth and assist public safety officials with the digital transformation of 9-1-1 services.

“Modernizing Public Safety requires trust from a number of state and local stakeholders,” RapidDeploy CEO Steven Raucher said. “Tim Melton brings a unique blend of experience in Government software sales and public-sector service that makes him the perfect candidate to work with local officials running 9-1-1 centers.”

Melton comes to the company with significant experience in government technology, having most recently led the sales team at OpenGov, a public-sector enterprise resource planning (ERP) company that raised $80 million in funding to streamline government agency operations. Melton also has served in state and local government, first as a county commissioner in Oakland County, Michigan, and later as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives. After his government service, he led government relations for education policy firm StudentsFirst.

“RapidDeploy’s technology saves lives by empowering first responders. Their mission attracted me to this opportunity,” Melton said. “I look forward to building upon the incredible work already done by the team and providing partners and customers with the highest level of service available in the industry.”

In his work with the company, Melton plans to bring the Public Safety industry into the 21st century by prioritizing reactive Unified Critical Response through data integrations with RapidDeploy’s expanding ecosystem of partners and merging RapidDeploy’s position in the marketplace with the growing need for effective and efficient cloud-based technology.