Introducing the new TYCO® Concealed Window Sprinkler

by Products

The TYCO® Model CWS Window Sprinkler is a specific application sprinkler that is a cost-effective alternative to fire-rated glass. The sprinkler discharges an even coat of water when activated, which cools the window to help prevent shattering in a fire event.

The flat-plate concealed design houses the sprinkler above the ceiling and the cover plate is available in a variety of colours and finishes, as well as in custom, factory-painted colours. This solution offers the cost-saving and aesthetic benefits of using non-fire-rated glass, while also providing an effective fire protection solution that blends into the ceiling.

This sprinkler is part of a full window sprinkler line that includes horizontal sidewall and pendent models. It also joins the TYCO® family of aesthetic fire sprinklers, including commercial flat-plate concealed models.

Main Benefits:

• The only UL Listed automatic sprinkler that is designed to protect window glazing

• Provides an alternative to the use of “fire-rated” glass

• Deflector design that wets the entire window combined with a fast response operating element

• Concealed model blends with the ceiling and the cover plate is available in a variety colours and finishes

• Applicable in many building types, including healthcare, academic, commercial, high-rise, multi-family residential

tycofpp.com/

Olympia Electronics develops series of luminaires for tunnel placements

by Products

In line with the current era’s needs, OLYMPIA ELECTRONICS S.A. has developed a range of emergency luminaires, ideal for placing in tunnels.

The emergency luminaires series, named ‘TUNNEL LIGHT’, meets the necessary specifications with the additional characteristics: Ingress Protection (IP65) Impact Protection Rating (IK08) High Viewing Distance (125m). The series can also be powered and controlled by a 24V DC Central Battery System (CBS) and are designed for recessed wall mounting too.

The company suggests a combination of luminaires as a complete solution.

OLYMPIA ELECTRONICS S.A. is driven by quality and has adopted production and inspection procedures that help to supply the market with products that are in accordance with the European construction prototypes (ΕΝ).

www.olympia-electronics.com/

Hochiki Asia Pacific launches new Smoke Detector

by Products

Hochiki Asia Pacific have just announced the release of the SOC-E-IS, the new Intrinsically Safe Conventional Smoke Detector to replace the SLR-E-IS model. This new replacement model reportedly maintains the same functionality and classifications for hazardous environments and uses the same I.S. mounting base, YBN-R/4IS.

The SOC-E-IS has been developed with built-in technology that ensures its operation at the optimum sensitivity and reducing the potential false alarms. By using the same Automatic Sensitivity Window Verification (ASWV) technology, the SOC-E-IS will continue to adjust its sensitivity threshold to compensate contamination inside the optical chamber and provides visual notification when maintenance is required.

According to the manufacturer, the use of this new built-in technology makes the SOC-E-IS more reliable and more superior than its predecessor, the SLR-E-IS.

The SOC-E-IS is a Photoelectric Smoke Detector, which is fully compatible with the majority of existing Conventional systems. The SOC-E-IS incorporates Hochiki’s unique High-Performance photoelectric smoke chamber removing the need to use Ionisation Detectors in the majority of applications.

‘AFVW’ Drift Compensation technology is incorporated to ensure the Detector is operating at its optimum sensitivity and therefore reducing potential false alarms. If the contamination limit is exceeded, then the integral red LED will flash once every three seconds to give a visual warning. The smoke chamber is easily removed or replaced for cleaning and utilises a unique baffle design which allows smoke to enter the chamber whilst keeping out ambient light.

Features:

  • Removable, High Performance chamber
  • Automatic Sensitivity Window Verification (ASWV) – Drift Compensation Technology Remote Indicator output
  • Wide voltage range (9.5 ~ 30 VDC)
  • Low profile design with one-piece outer cover
  • Single fire LED – 360° viewing
  • ATEX Classification to: Ex ia IIC T5 Ga (-20°C ≤ Ta ≤ +55°C)
  • Suitable for installation in areas at Category 1 (inc all lower categories)
  • Approved by LPCB & VdS

www.hochikiasiapacific.com/

Nittan Europe announces the transition of their quality management system to ISO 9001:2015

by Products

Nittan Europe has announced the successful transition of the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) to ISO 9001:2015. ISO 9001 is an internationally accredited standard for QMS. Whereas the previous ISO 9001:2008 focused mainly on quality and procedure management, the new ISO 9001:2015 standard demands a high degree of business leadership.

Nittan Quality Manager Robert Barnes, undertook a rigorous approach to the transition process and has been focusing on this since December 2017 in order to achieve compliance.

Nittan Europe MD Yoshiaki Kadokura states: “Nittan’s achievement of ISO 9001:2015 accreditation is essential to prove our ability to deliver the highest quality products and systems to our loyal customers and the market. The ISO 9001 transition was a huge challenge for us, however, Nittan QA and Operation Departments committed fully to every step of the process and worked closely with the BRE auditors. Thanks to their dedicated work, it was completed successfully in a shorter timeframe than we or BRE anticipated.”

ISO 9001:2015 compliance is testament to professionalism and reliability of a business. Nittan Europe embraces the revised standard as an essential element of its growth. Nittan endeavors to provide the best possible service to all their customers while continuing to evolve their business as a whole, and pursue the company’s responsibility in fire protection as one of the worlds’ pioneering detector manufacturers.

nittan.co.uk/

AWG, Godiva develop disinfectant system for public spaces

by Products

With the ongoing battle against COVID-19, fire departments are challenged with preventing the spread of the virus by cleaning and disinfecting public spaces. To aid fire departments, IDEX Fire & Safety businesses this month released a new multitool sprayer and cleaning agent induction system.

The internationally diverse IDEX team from AWG in Germany and GODIVA in England joined forces using Microsoft Teams to design and test a reliable, low-cost system that connects to existing fire engines. With creativity and expertise from across the organisation, team members quickly innovated and developed the product in just two months

Godiva provided expertise on the pump, while AWG provided expertise on the eductor pump and the nozzle. The team also asked a biochemist at ThinXXS in Germany to help understand the chemical requirements for the common cleaning agents.

This combination of IDEX expertise led to the rapid development of a system optimised for this solution.

In contrast to the FS100 Portable Disinfectant Spraying System, which was launched last month, the SANISTREET FLEX system mounts on to a fire pump through the attachment of a delivery valve, and enables fire fighters and first responders to disinfect larger outdoor areas.

SANISTREET FLEX system features: 

  • Efficient cleaning with 60 l/min at 7.5 bar
  • Throw distance approx. 8-10 m and spray angle of 25°
  • Suitable for use with water and liquid cleaning agents
  • Retrofit system
  • Compact solution for an easy storage
  • Storz, BI & NH hard anodized couplings
  • Protects your fire pump from risk of corrosions

www.idexcorp.com/

Fireco: reducing the transfer of COVID-19 from door handles

by Fire DoorsProducts

Fireco, a technology company based in Brighton, England, has been working for over twenty years to help with the issue of fire doors being wedged open. Fire doors should be kept shut to control the spread of smoke and fire in buildings, and a common, serious problem is people wedging these doors open to allow for fresh air and easy access.

Fireco’s door retainers and door closers hold fire doors open compliantly. When the fire alarm sounds, the products will release the door to close through either acoustic or radio activation. They are wire-free and can be easily installed.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Fireco’s customer base reached out and expressed how the company are helping to resolve more issues than just illegally wedged open doors.

Fireco products are fitted to doors across multiple industries including NHS premises, COVID-19 test labs, critical infrastructure, schools, commercial offices and factories.

These buildings’ occupants are so pleased, because people are able to walk freely around them without having to touch door handles, which has helped reduce the spread of germs, providing protection to all occupants, many of whom are key workers on the front line in the fight against COVID-19.

fireco.uk/

Getac deliver technology upgrade to Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team

by Products

Getac, a rugged mobile computing manufacturer, has come to the aid of the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team (CBMRT) with the donation of powerful rugged mobile devices, along with accompanying accessories from its partners.  The new solutions replace the CBMRT’s original IT equipment – which was lost during a devastating fire at its base of operations in Merthyr Tydfil – and provide a significant technology upgrade in the process.

The CBMRT is a voluntary organisation covering the central Brecon Beacons, including South Wales’ highest mountain, Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Corn Du, as well as the Ystradfellte waterfalls. It responds to over 120 incidents a year, with rescues often taking place in extremely challenging conditions. Many areas of the national park are also very remote, which can make effective coordination between rescue teams difficult without the right equipment.

The ZX70 fully rugged Android tablets and F110 fully rugged Windows tablets donated by Getac both feature a host of innovative technologies that greatly enhance CBMRT capabilities during time sensitive operations. Getac’s revolutionary Lumibond® touchscreen technology means rescuers can view and operate the devices in all weather conditions, from bright sunlight to heavy rain, and even whilst wearing gloves. Powerful inbuilt 4G LTE connectivity also enables team members to remotely log-in to the SARCALL incident management platform from any location, where they can liaise with other rescue parties, coordinate searches and provide real-time updates.

Secure vehicle docking stations with compact and robust Zirkona mounting brackets were also donated by Gamber-Johnson, while Lind Electronics provided high quality, rugged vehicle power adaptors that together meet the requirements of the most demanding and harsh environments. These have been used to create fully integrated solutions in both the front and rear of the CBMRT’s three new response vehicles, allowing the devices to be safely used when in transit, then detached and taken into the field once teams are at the scene of an incident.

“When we’re trying locate a person in need of our help, the last thing we want to worry about is our devices,” says Penny Brockman, Team Leader, Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team. “Mountain rescue can be very hard on equipment, but our Getac tablets and accompanying accessories perform flawlessly in even the toughest conditions, meaning we can stay focussed on the task at hand, which is saving lives.”

“Technology is playing an increasingly important role in frontline emergency response and when the CBMRT lost all of its equipment in the fire, both ourselves and our partners were more than happy to step in,” says Chris Bye, President, Getac UK Ltd. “With the new rugged solutions in place, rescue teams have everything they need to communicate and coordinate effectively in the field, giving the best possible chance of success.”

www.getac.com/

Dafo Li-IonFire tackles electric/hybrid vehicle fire protection

by Products

As there is a global transition to renewable fuels, there is an increasing demand for electric or hybrid vehicles (EV and HEV). However, knowledge is limited about the new fire risks associated with vehicles having these new energy carriers

Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection has helped build a fire protection system tailored for operations using electric or hybrid vehicles as part of an EU-funded program.

In partnership with RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Dafo explored different techniques to detect potential battery failure, as early as possible, and take immediate action to stop, or delay, a potentially hazardous situation.

The partners studied the various fire risks related to batteries, including specific risks when charging, and procedures for handling electric vehicles and batteries after a crash. They also investigated to what extent fixed and integrated fire suppression systems, which are widely used to protect combustion engine compartments on heavy vehicles, can be applied to vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries, and how they should be designed.

“With the rapid introduction of electric and hybrid electric vehicles in public transport, there are new challenges because they present totally different risk scenarios,” Anders Gulliksson of Dafo Vehicle (pictured), Coordinator of the EU-funded Li-IonFire (Automated e-vehicle Lithium Ion Battery Early Warning and Fire Suppression System) project, said.

Through extensive testing, the Li-IonFire team better understood how a breakdown occurs within the battery and how it can be detected.

“If a system is activated at this early stage, the battery can be ‘brought back’ to a safe state, without the fire developing further,” Gulliksson explained.

“The tests have also shown that even with a late deployment of the fire suppression system, there’s a possibility of delaying the battery reaching a critical state, meaning that the chance of safe evacuation is very high.”

With proper detection and system activation, the hazardous scenario can be reversed and potentially even stopped entirely, according to Dafo.

The project team has, it says, successfully validated and demonstrated a highly innovative fire protection system for electric and hybrid electric vehicles. The new system provides an early fire warning system, and spot cooling to prevent thermal runaway while localising and suppressing fire.

The system was officially unveiled in 2019 and has generated tremendous interest from both end users and vehicle manufacturers, according to Dafo.

“Li-IonFire delivers to the market a product that didn’t exist until now; a system that can offer real protection against battery fires, using a new suppression agent, Forrex EV™, which is specifically developed for these applications,” concluded Gulliksson.

“Li-IonFire will significantly boost the safety of operators and the protection of valuable assets.”

It will be available from September 1, 2020, the company says.

www.dafo.se/en/vehicle/

EVAC+CHAIR: A universal evacuation solution for smooth stairway descent in an emergency situation

by Products

In the event of an emergency such as a fire or an earthquake, passenger lifts should not be used in a multi-storey building. This can create an issue for the mobility impaired or injured who could become trapped.

If a persons capability to evacuate is impaired by a medical condition like heightened anxiety or having to exert themselves by using stairs in a bit of a hurry, then assistance might need to be provided. Evac+Chair’s products are the perfect solution; their evacuation chairs are a lightweight and easy to use device which glides effortlessly down stairways to assist with the quick and safe removal of people who are mobility impaired in the event of an emergency evacuation.

The Evac+Chair 300 series features 182kg payload capacity, is lightweight, easy to use and comes supplied in a blue textured finish and contrasting yellow hammock and is the most popular single-person operation evacuation chair within the range.

Features:

  • Ergonomic handle – For ease of deployment and compact storage
  • Adjustable passenger head strap – Limits movement, securing the passenger in place
  • Quick release adjustable safety belt – For passenger safety
  • Friction tracks – The self-braking reinforced tracks control speed of descent
  • Heavy-duty wheels – Ideal for operation over uneven terrain
  • Reflective decals – For easy location in poor visibility

www.evacchair.co.uk/

Boots on the ground: Heroes Wear HAIX®

by Products

HAIX®, a hi-tech manufacturer of specialist footwear based in Bavaria, Germany, has gained its reputation for reliability and quality in footwear for firefighters, police and military forces, emergency services and taskforces worldwide. HAIX® focuses on protecting operators from the day-to-day hazards of demanding, dangerous and life-saving roles, while maintaining outstanding comfort. Its innovative design and hi-tech approach is inspired by the personal experiences of professional firefighters within the company.

HAIX® was founded by Xaver Haimerl in 1948, as a hiking and work boot manufacturer. It was Xaver’s son, Ewald Haimerl, who steered HAIX® on its current course. As the deputy chief of Mainburg’s fire service, Ewald was unhappy with the boots that he and his firefighter colleagues were supplied with. So, in 1992, he applied the skills learned working in his father’s factory to designing custom boots to specifically fit the needs of firefighters.

Over nearly 30 years, HAIX® has expanded its product range and today HAIX boots support heroes in more than 80 countries across the world.

“Aid workers dealing with the Fukushima disaster, the Haiti earthquake and the typhoon in the Philippines put their trust in HAIX footwear designed for the emergency services. We equip armies, task forces and police all over the world with functional footwear. These shoes have been developed with the reality of what happens in practice in mind – often in collaboration with the relevant decision makers,” says Simon Ash, Sales manager HAIX UK.

Footwear for every challenge

In the UK, HAIX boots support the day to day missions and rescue work of heroes in the military and the emergency services, including firefighters, police and coastguard volunteers.

Her Majesty’s Coastguard provides year-round search and rescue with 352 HM Coastguard rescue teams located in stations around the UK. Its 3000 volunteers chose HAIX boots, and Richard Hackwell, Head of Coastal Resources for HM Coastguard, says: “Our volunteers work hard, and we need a boot that can keep up and work just as hard as they do. Rescue missions can last for long periods of time when searching for missing people; our volunteers are lifting loads, carrying people and working on a variety of terrains, so it is important to ensure they have the best support available for their feet.”

Supporting firefighters, every step of the way

As well as working with emergency services teams directly, HAIX also supports charitable causes that care for active and retired emergency services professionals physically, mentally and financially.  One of these causes is the British Firefighter Challenge, an annual event that sees former and currently serving firefighters compete in a series of gruelling strength and endurance tests.

The 2019 edition, held in Watford, saw 186 firefighters compete in the event, raising a total of nearly £7,000 of donations for the British Firefighter Charity.  HAIX, as Team GB’s official footwear sponsor, provided each member of the team with a pair of Black Eagle trainers to wear during training, as well as a pair of Fire Eagle Boots to wear during the Challenge itself.

Simon Ash adds, “Whether in Watford or Devon, Los Angeles or Kosovo– wherever firefighters are deployed, wherever lives are being saved, wherever absolute reliability is demanded of footwear in the field – that’s where HAIX’s premium quality boots are an essential piece of kit.

“Our customers entrust us with the everyday safety of their employees and our shoes enable them to fulfil their missions. All of us at team HAIX® are proud to say that heroes wear HAIX® and our objective is to offer our loyal fans the best protective shoes in the world”.

www.haix.co.uk/