Comelit announce EN54 – 13 approvals

by Products

Comelit’s dedicated fire division has achieved the stringent EN54 – 13 standards for its Analogue Addressable Fire Detection System.

The Italian security specialist, known for its high specification solutions, presents a range of specialist fire solutions, including conventional systems that are particularly suited to fire detection in smaller facilities and buildings with simple layouts. 

Comelit’s Atena addressable panels can identify the precise location of a fire and are suitable for applications of all types.

Says Mandy Bowden, Comelit’s Fire Business Development Manager: “Those operating in the fire sector, will not only be familiar with the requirement for fire protection products, but also the need to provide evidence that a complete system will function as intended under all expected operating conditions.

“EN54-13 is a rigorous system test procedure that goes beyond any individual standard.  Complying demonstrates how our products really go over and above the requirements needed to satisfy the CPD / CPR, operating as a full fire detection and alarm system and not just as a sum of components. 

Great accomplishment for Comelit

“It’s a great accomplishment for Comelit, proving our complete system performance capability at all times, in every environment.”

EN54-13 (referencing the compatibility and connectability assessment of system components) was first published in 2005. In most European countries it is an essential requirement for fire detection and alarm systems. It’s also a British Standard and referenced in BS 5839 Part 1.

Francesca Boeris, UK Managing Director added: “This is a great achievement for the fire team and one we are particularly proud, to demonstrate our commitment to innovation and compliance.” 

“It provides our customers and the supply chain as a whole with peace of mind that, in using our fire products portfolio, lives are always protected in the event of a fire, even in the most demanding situations, when you need the system most.”

To find out more about Comelit’s Fire Division, please visit https://www.comelitgroup.com/en-gb/

Streamlight release STINGER 2020

by Products

Streamlight have announced the launch of the rechargeable STINGER 2020, the next evolution in duty-ready flashlights designed for search, detection and defensive uses, on 10 July.

The new light delivers 2,000 lumens and up to 24hr run time, featuring an anti-roll body design, non-slip side panels and an ergonomic shape for easier grip. Dual power switches and an intuitive mode selector slide switch allow for flexibility in lighting intensity and run time. 

Revolutionary new STINGER model

Streamlight VP, Sales and Marketing, Michael F Dineen said: “From clearing a room to searching for evidence or writing a ticket, the STINGER 2020 revolutionises the idea of a rechargeable, super-bright duty light for police, military and other first responders.

“This newest model features a cutting edge ergonomic flat design, so that you can hold the light in your hand, under your arm or even in the crook of your neck without losing your grip or hold. And with its dual power switches, plus an easy to use mode selector switch, you can just set the light and not have to cycle between modes.” 

The STINGER 2020 is powered by two long-lasting SL-B26 protected Li-Ion USB rechargeable battery packs. The light features multiple charging options: battery USB port and battery bank charger, or existing STINGER smart chargers and bank charger.

On high, the STINGER 2020 delivers 2,000 lumens, a 315m beam distance and a 2hr run time; on medium, 850 lumens, 200m and 4hr; and on low, 100 lumens, 70m and 24hr, respectively.  A strobe for disorienting or signalling use runs for 3.25hr.

Made from aluminium alloy, the Stinger® 2020 features a Borofloat® glass lens that is corrosion-resistant and gasket-sealed. The light features an IPX7-rated design that makes it waterproof to 1-metre for 30 minutes and it is impact-resistant tested to 2-metres.

For more information visit www.streamlight.com

Case study: Moray Fire Protection

by Products

Moray Fire Protection provides personal and comprehensive fire detection and protection services to companies, government organisations and individuals throughout Scotland. The company is BAFE registered and operates under industry recognised standards.

Located in Elgin, they are ideally situated to service clients throughout the whole of Scotland including Moray, the Highlands, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Moray Fire Protection have recently taken over a contract to maintain eight care homes across Moray and the Highlands.

Having inherited these sites from a previous contractor, Moray Fire Protection decided to upgrade and replace the installations with new equipment including the latest alarm signalling.

With analogue telephone (PSTN) lines soon to be redundant, Moray Fire Protection reached out to CSL as they felt that the DigiAir Pro Fire was the best suited signalling product for these installations.

CSL-Web-1024x480
Moray Fire Protection are working with CSL

DigiAir Pro Fire is a SP3 graded, radio only single path signalling solution, utilising all mobile networks via our WorldSIM to signal an alarm. As a tailor-made fire signalling solution, DigiAir Pro Fire also offers the faster catastrophic failure reporting time of 31 minutes.

With EN54 certified monitored signalling, they now have a fully compliant system, that can report any faults or issues in a much shorter period, providing peace of mind for their customers.

The UDL functionality available with DigiAir Pro Fire, plus the addition of the My Base App for remote configuration changes, allows Moray Fire Protection to manage their devices for their customers and
ensure the service is always working correctly.

Euralarm releases guidance document on gaseous systems

by Products

The Extinguishing Section of Euralarm has published a guidance document explaining the differences between approved gaseous extinguishing systems and components. The aim of the guideline is to make any person involved in the choice of a gaseous extinguishing system aware of the major differences between quality marks and to help them make a decision based on clear and balanced information.

Gaseous fire extinguishing systems are a very effective way to protect critical hazards and high value assets, when it is important to have no collateral damage caused by the extinguishant or residues. For any kind of electric risk (Data Centre, IT rooms, Control rooms, Switchgear rooms, etc.) or very sensitive/valuable assets or materials (Art, Antiques, Rare books, etc.), they are often the first choice. An additional factor is personal safety as many of these applications are occupied, either permanently or occasionally.

The correct performance of a gaseous fire extinguishing system is therefore essential not only to quickly extinguish a fire but also to protect human life. It is important to understand how to assess the efficiency and reliability of a gaseous fire extinguishing system.

Numerous quality marks are available to validate the compliance to rules and standards. However, it may be difficult for non-specialists such as end users to get a good understanding of the meaning of all these marks before selecting a particular gaseous extinguishing system. The new guidance note of Euralarm aims on making any person involved in the choice of a system aware of the major differences between quality marks and to help them make a decision based on clear and balanced information.

Although the document specifically covers gaseous fire extinguishing systems only, the content may also be applicable to other fire extinguishing or fire prevention systems.

Download from the Euralarm website

Copies of the Guidance on Gaseous Systems: approved system versus approved components can be downloaded from the Euralarm website – https://euralarm.org/euralarm-publications/public-guidelines/download/187_8a6d3896404db4b40ee26910fdd964bf.

Emergency One launches the E1 Ev0, the world’s first fully electric fire engine

by ActiveProducts

Emergency One has announced the immediate availability of The E1 Ev0, enabling customers to place orders and enquire about the product.

“We are excited to unveil our E1 Ev0 – the world’s first all-electric Pumping Appliance and our innovative contribution towards a low-carbon economy. We look forward to seeing the reaction from our customer base and the wider public,” said Mike Madsen, Managing Director at Emergency One Group Limited.

Positive customer impact

Designed with the protection of fire fighters and the environment in mind, Emergency One has exceeded expectations by delivering a world first of its kind.

However, with zero emissions comes zero compromise in terms of innovation and safety. Not only does the E1 Ev0 produce zero emissions for a positive impact on the environment but customers will benefit from a range of improved safety features including clean cab filtration systems that addresses the health issue of residual particulates. The development of a product that plays such a pivotal role in public safety was a sizeable task, but as a manufacturer of emergency service vehicles, it was a task that was necessary.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Michael Matheson said: “Alongside our ambition to phase out new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2032, we have set out ambitious targets for the Scottish Public Sector to decarbonise their vehicle fleets. It’s great to see Emergency One innovating to bring a cutting edge zero emission fire appliance to the market, manufactured here in Scotland. 

“I look forward to seeing further innovations in the zero-emission marketplace as we work towards our net-zero targets and air quality objectives.”

Linda Hanna, Managing Director at Scottish Enterprise, commented: “Emergency One is a fantastic example of a Scottish manufacturer with export ambitions. We want to inspire more businesses to explore innovation, sustainability and exporting because we know this will help both their business recovery and Scotland’s green economic recovery. Scottish Enterprise is proud to have worked with this company over many years and to have supported this project to create the world’s first net-zero fire engine built in Cumnock, that will not only save lives in the role it will serve but also contribute to Scotland’s wider low carbon targets.”

The E1 Ev0

The E1 Ev0 has been developed due to the increased concern of the effects that carbon and other emissions, have on the planet and our health. The use of fire appliances is an essential tool in keeping the public safe, hence the importance placed on reducing the environmental impact of these vehicles. The result of this product shows Emergency One’s continued commitment to deliver the latest in product development and the desire to protect future generations in more ways than just one.

The E1 Ev0 is not a concept vehicle but a fully functioning frontline protection, prevention and intervention tool.

To receive more information on the E1 Ev0, visit e1group.co.uk or contact info@emergencyone.co.uk

Streamlight launches brand new Vulcan 180 HAZ-LO ATEX lantern

by Products

Streamlight Inc., a provider of high-performance lighting devices, has launched the intrinsically safe Vulcan 180 HAZ-LO ATEX, a multifunction and rechargeable high-performance lantern designed for use in hazardous environments. Featuring a 24-hour run time on low, a 180° articulating head and two ultra-bright blue taillights for visibility in thick smoke, the new model is ATEX and IECEx-certified for use in Zone 0 locations faced by many first responders.

“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,” said Streamlight Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Michael F. Dineen. “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.”

The Vulcan from Streamlight

Including a triangular-shaped face cap and rotating head, the Vulcan 180 HAZ-LO ATEX 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 316-metre 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.   

The light’s rotating head tilts 180° and features a locking mechanism to lock it in the upright position. The lantern’s large rubberised cushioned-grip handle enables smooth handoffs even with gloves and offers a nonslip grip for easy carrying. Powered by a rechargeable 7.8Ahr lithium ion battery, the Vulcan 180 HAZ-LO ATEX fully recharges in 15 hours. Its quick install charge rack fits the same footprint as other lanterns in the Vulcan and LiteBox series. Encased in durable, super-tough nylon with reinforced D-Rings, it is IPX4-rated for water resistant operation and is also impact-resistance tested to 2 metres.

www.streamlight.com

Exclusive: Innovation in professional fire monitoring products

by Products

Rob Evans, Sales Director at CSL speaks exclusively about the company’s new DualCom Pro Fire Range as well as innovation in the fire detection and alarms market.

What opportunities do you believe the fire alarm signalling sector is not fully utilising?

There is a definite lack of monitored fire alarm systems. If you have a regular, non-monitored system, there is always a risk of no-one being there to raise the alarm to the emergency services. Without alarm monitoring, a standard alarm simply rings out while fire spreads undeterred and this is something that should be re-evaluated for assets and properties.

I believe there is a misconception that these types of alarm systems do not add value or are too costly, but this is simply not the case. Professional monitoring in fire is crucial for professional installations. 

At CSL, we believe we have the ideal solutions for the market and we look forward to installers benefitting from our latest offering, DualCom Pro Fire. It is priced competitively, whilst providing the added benefits of remote access and peace of mind when premises are not occupied. 

How is the DualCom Pro Fire Range a unique product for the fire and safety industry?

DualCom Pro Fire offers installers an easier and faster installation of professional fire signalling systems. The solutions are totally wireless, meaning there is no need to delay the install to configure a wired connection. They are plug and play – you simply power the device up and it will automatically download its configuration. The device can be installed wirelessly, meaning it can be in whatever position provides the best signal. All of this is backed up by the My Base App and CSL Live portal, which allows remote maintenance and access to the installation once the engineer has left the site.

How important is EN54 certification and why it is a huge asset to the DualCom Pro?

EN54 certification is the most important aspect in terms of signalling for fire detection and alarm systems. Over the past few years, we have seen an increased industry demand for EN54 (Fire) certified signalling products that offer flexibility of installation, increased reliability and cost-effectiveness. Today, most fire systems having no monitoring at all despite many fires occurring when the premises are empty. We are confident that all criteria have now been satisfied with the new DualCom Pro Fire products.

Why is professional alarm signalling an important aspect and in what situations can this type of monitoring be efficiently utilised?

The wireless capabilities of DualCom Pro mean that no installation is limited by the infrastructure of the premises, making it easier than ever to provide professional fire monitoring.

The range includes two variants. DigiAir Pro Fire offers a totally wireless single path solution, whilst GradeShift Pro Fire offers dual path signalling via two separate radio modules. Both solutions come with multiple 4G WorldSIMs, providing the most reliable fire signalling systems ever.

Could you elaborate on the cost effectiveness of the DualCom Pro and why this is generally an issue in the fire systems market?

The cost of EN54 approved signalling products has long been an issue in the fire industry. Monitored systems for fire systems are historically priced high and only available at dual path. Older EN54 certified signalling solutions were very expensive, meaning many installers could not justify the investment and leaving most fire systems having no monitoring at all – despite many fires occurring when the premises are empty.

DigiAir Pro Fire offers an ideal solution here, as a totally wireless, cost-effective, single path option. The wireless capabilities of DigiAir Pro Fire mean that no installation is limited by the infrastructure of the premises or the need for a wired connection. It is also a great option for upgrading non-monitored fire systems or futureproofing those that are using legacy communications like digis. For those installations that require dual path signalling, GradeShift Pro Fire is available.

How long was the process for the DualCom Pro – from concept, to finished certified product?

Our recent acquisitions of WebWay & Emizon helped to make it a reality. We took all the best parts of each product to create the DualCom Pro range. Work was already underway following Emizon joining the CSL Group in 2017. Once WebWay came on board in June 2018, the experts from across the three brands came together to deliver the leading product within 12 months – officially launching in July 2019. Shortly after this we attained the prestigious EN54 approval for Fire.

As with all product launches in our industry, the launch was staggered with rigorous beta and live trials to ensure optimum performance and on-site success. Since this moment, DualCom Pro has been utilised in over 10,000 installations across the UK and Ireland.

It is important to note that the DualCom Pro range was launched in partnership with the industry – working alongside our CSL Connected Partners and listening to the market to ensure that we build a range that will not only benefit our customers but all those in the supply chain.

Continued innovation

Do you have any predictions for the fire detection and alarms market?

Tougher legislation to mandate fire against insurance and help drive down false alarms would be welcomed. This legislation would need to come from the industry with involvement from government and trade bodies.

60 fires a day occur in or beside vacant or derelict properties in the UK (Home Office Statistics). When a fire occurs and the premises are empty, it will not be reported unless someone nearby sees it or hears the alarm.

A Fire System with Professional Signalling reports any faults or alarms to a Monitoring Centre, providing 24/7 365 peace of mind for premises owners.

Are there are any other safety innovations from CSL that will be introduced to the market soon?

Our new CSL Router was recently introduced and offers instant connectivity for systems including CCTV, Access Control and many more. It provides secure connectivity for applications that support fire systems and is pre-configured for quick installation. The recent trend of visual verification between CCTV and alarm signalling can also be supported by CSL Router.

Its static IP address allows remote access into the system without interfering with any IT infrastructure. All options offer a fully encrypted service via our Gemini Global Platform to guarantee data is kept safe. For installations that require professional monitoring, the CSL Router can be connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre. It is also available as a self-monitoring solution with the ability to upgrade to full ARC Connection at any time.

At CSL, we are always listening to the market and our installers share their challenges, frustrations and opportunities with us. This allows us to deliver products and services to the industry and maximise their success. We also ensure they tick all the boxes for our customers to allow them to provide the highest-level service to end users.

www.csl-group.com

This article was published in the latest edition of International Fire and Safety Journal. Pick up your FREE digital copy here

Apollo Fire Detectors provides flexible finance options with new Leasing Programme

by Products

Apollo Fire Detectors has launched a new Leasing Programme in partnership with Shire Leasing to offer simple, flexible finance options to install or upgrade fire alarm systems without an initial capital outlay.

Apollo’s purpose is simple: to keep people safe from fire every second of every day. To help overcome financial barriers, the company has developed a bespoke programme to enable more building owners and managers to install the right fire system without an initial capital outlay. All Apollo installers within the UK can apply to become an Apollo Leasing Provider, enabling them to win more business and guarantees payment in full on completion of each project.

Benefits for Apollo Leasing Providers

  • Overcome financial barriers – An affordable solution to ensure there is no compromise with fire safety by selecting the system that’s right for the job.
  • Payment security – Installers receive 30% payment up front with the balance paid in full on completion of the project.
  • System maintenance can also be included and invoiced monthly in arrears as required.

Benefits for Building Owners

  • Get the right fire system needed now with no initial capital outlay.
  • Plan budgets easily with fixed monthly payments.
  • Reduce tax – Finance lease rental payments can be 100% tax deductible against profits.
  • System maintenance can also be included for an additional monthly charge, giving complete peace of mind.

Irina Cruse, Head of Marketing says: “Quite often investment into fire safety is more of a grudge purchase than a desired one. This is even more true in the current climate, when end users are trying to survive in the newly shaped COVID reality, making careful choices on where to place their cash. Lack of investment into fire safety essentially means higher risk to the safety of the people. The Apollo Leasing Programme has been designed to protect more people by removing financial barriers to the installation of the right fire detection system, release building owners from the need for a major up-front investment and offer payment security to the installers.”

To find out how you can become an Apollo leasing provider, visit: www.apollo-fire.co.uk/products/leasing

Huntingdon Fusion Techniques offers easy valve replacement with CO2 freezing

by PassiveProducts

The Pipestoppers Division at Huntingdon Fusion Techniques HFT provides a cost saving solution to carrying out repairs or modifications on pipes with liquid inside, which also includes valve replacement.

Valve replacement challenges

Replacing valves in pipework can be a challenge, especially when the pipelines have liquids running through them. One option is to completely drain the system to make the repairs, which can prove costly, time consuming and problematical as to where to drain the liquid.

Georgia Gascoyne, CEO for HFT said: “Qwik-Freezer is the industry standard portable CO2 Pipe Freezing System, in use around the world, covering pipe diameters from 3/8” – 8” (9 – 200 mm). The quick and easy to use system requires very little set-up time and is the only CO2 Pipe Freezing System capable of freezing larger pipe diameters.”

HFT’s US Partner, COB Industries said: “When a sprinkler head has to be repaired or replaced in a large system, there are many issues that can arise. Draining large fire systems can create problems with disposal of all the water, more so when it is treated chemically with rust inhibitors and/or anti freeze. Environmental concerns prevent disposing of this water in a normal drainage system, even if it is possible to access one.

“Another issue with draining large systems is trapped air creating an air block in the lines. If there is no way to bleed the air from the system as it fills entire sections can remain empty and unusable. Both Pipe Freezing Systems, namely the Qwik-Freezer and the Accu-Freeze are used for fire sprinkler and valve maintenance. The ease of use makes the Qwik-Freezer System very popular for diameters up to 4” (although Qwik-Freezer is capable of freezing up to 8”).

“Larger pipe diameters and the use of anti-freeze and rust inhibitors can create freeze points that require the liquid nitrogen (LN2) temperatures of the Accu-Freeze System in order to create a pressure bearing freeze plug regardless of the pipe diameter.”

Once liquids have been brought to a standstill, a specially designed flexible jacket is wrapped around the pipe at each point where the freeze is required. A nozzle in the jacket is then coupled to a cylinder of liquid carbon dioxide for the Qwik-Freezer and liquid nitrogen for the Accu-Freeze.

For valve replacement, a second jacket is installed on the other side, creating a double freeze, blocking flow on both sides of the valve.

When the CO2/LN2 is injected into the space between the jacket and the pipe, the pipe contents freeze and a secure ‘ice plug’ is formed, which seals the pipe. The ‘ice plug’ forms only in the section of the pipe covered by the jacket, so the resulting rise in pressure is very small and there is no damage to the pipe itself. The technique can be used safely on iron, steel, lead, stainless steel, copper, brass and plastic pipe.

www.huntingdonfusion.com

Luminite adds heat and smoke detectors for construction sites

by ConstructionIndustry SectorsPassiveProducts

Luminite Electronics, manufacturer of the widely used wireless Genesis PIR detector range has added wireless heat and smoke detectors that, when used with a Genesis IP masthead receiver, will provide a site wide security solution for evolving construction projects.

When triggered, the heat and smoke detectors will send an alert via the masthead receiver informing the end user of the location of the heat/smoke event. The heat and smoke detectors can alternatively be used in conjuction with Nexus Fire Alerts so that the entire site can be alerted both audibly and visually via sounders and strobes.

Any existing system already using Genesis detectors with an IP masthead can add heat and smoke sensors to the system as one of it’s 64 reporting units. With the IP masthead working with a variety of remote monitoring software platforms including Immix, Hikvision and Dahua this added functionality is a powerful tool in the early detection of arson or accidental fires, particularly in timber framed buildings.

The Genesis PIR detectors and Nexus Call Points have a transmission range of 1km and heat and smoke detectors of 100m. The systems are portable and quick and easy to install with no civil works or cabling required.   

Heat and smoke detectors comply with European regulations. The smoke detectors are approved to EN15604:2005 standard and the heat detectors conform to BS5446-2:2003 standard. Genesis detectors are EN505-1 Grade 2 compliant.

For more information contact Laura Grainger at Luminite on 0208 368 7887 or visit www.luminite.co.uk