Fire-resistant honeycomb panels launched by Viva for safer buildings

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveProducts

Viva announces fire-resistant FR A1-rated aluminium panels

Viva has introduced its FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels, designed to enhance fire safety in architecture.

The company states that these panels meet the highest fire resistance standards under European Standard EN 13501-1, ensuring non-combustibility and zero contribution to fire, smoke, or toxic emissions.

According to Viva, the panels are engineered for safety-critical environments, including high-rise buildings, airports, commercial complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions.

The honeycomb core structure provides durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, making it suitable for modern construction.

Compliance with international fire safety standards

The FR A1 rating indicates that the panels meet stringent fire safety requirements.

This classification, under the European Standard EN 13501-1, ensures that the panels do not contribute to fire, smoke, or toxic emissions.

Viva states that the panels have undergone rigorous testing to confirm their performance in extreme fire conditions.

These safety features align with international fire safety regulations, addressing the growing need for fire-resistant materials in construction projects worldwide.

The company highlights that the panels can be integrated into various architectural applications without compromising safety.

Structural benefits and design flexibility

Viva’s honeycomb panels are designed to balance fire resistance with structural integrity.

The honeycomb core allows for strength while keeping the material lightweight, making it easier to install and transport.

The company states that this construction method enhances durability and ensures long-term performance.

Additionally, the panels come with customisable finishes, enabling their use in different architectural designs.

The manufacturer notes that this flexibility allows architects and developers to incorporate fire-resistant materials without aesthetic limitations.

Industry perspectives on fire safety solutions

Nitin Jain, Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., commented on the product’s development: “At Viva, safety, innovation, and sustainability drive our product development.

“Our FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels are a testament to this commitment, offering architects and developers an unparalleled solution for fire-safe construction.”

With increasing fire safety regulations in urban developments, manufacturers of building materials are introducing solutions that meet strict compliance requirements.

Viva’s new panels are positioned as a response to this demand, providing an option that integrates fire resistance, durability, and environmental considerations.

Fire-resistant honeycomb panels launched by Viva for safer buildings: Summary

Viva has introduced its FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels, which meet the highest fire resistance classification under the European Standard EN 13501-1.

Designed for use in high-rise buildings, airports, commercial complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions, they provide a fire-safe construction option without compromising design flexibility.

The honeycomb core structure aims to ensure durability while keeping the panels lightweight, making them suitable for various architectural applications.

Viva states that the panels have undergone rigorous testing to confirm their performance under extreme fire conditions.

The company highlights their compliance with international safety regulations, addressing the demand for fire-resistant materials in modern construction.

Nitin Jain, Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., said the panels reflect the company’s commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability.

Mayplas adds new passive fire, acoustic and thermal products to range

by Featured NewsProducts

Mayplas, a provider of passive fire protection, acoustic and thermal insulation for the housebuilding industry, has introduced three new products. 

The Thermal Eaves Batt, Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit add to Mayplas’ comprehensive portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications.

Thermal Eaves Batt

The new Mayplas Thermal Eaves Batt provides a thermal barrier at the interface between the ceiling loft space and the external wall of new build homes. 

Comprising two main components, an eaves tray and a stone mineral wool insulation batt, the batt prevents cold spots and reduces heat loss while providing a clear air path between the roofing membrane and insulation to avoid condensation. The batt is suitable for roof pitches up to 45°.

Party Wall Head System

The new Party Wall Head System provides fire protection compartmentation at the party wall junction. 

Installed together as per Mayplas’ Installation Guide, the two-component system – a party wall head cap and a tile batten barrier, achieves 60 minutes fire integrity and insulation tested to the principles of EN 1363-1:2012 and EOTA TR31:2008 and independently assessed in accordance with BS 476-20:1987 and BS 476-22:1987. 

The system addresses Building Regulations requirements to maintain the continuity of fire resistance between a compartment party wall and the underside of the roof covering, so preventing the spread of fire and smoke.

Therma Soffit

Mayplas’ third new product also works at the party wall junction. The Therma Soffit provides thermal insulation within the soffit.

It is available in two thicknesses, 100mm and 150mm, facilitating required thermal resistance values (Approved Document L) and providing resistance to the passage of sound synonymous with stone mineral wool insulation (Approved Document E).

Technical Director, Mayplas, Michael Hunter’s statement

Michael Hunter, Mayplas’ Technical Director commented: “Builders are putting fire safety first and foremost.  Our new Party Wall Head System together with our existing passive fire protection range addresses that need.

“We now provide a comprehensive solution for realising passive fire protection, for reducing heat loss and for minimising sound transmission in both timber frame and masonry construction to help housebuilders create protected, energy-efficient and comfortable homes.”

Passive fire acoustic and thermal products added to Mayplas range: Summary

Mayplas has added the Thermal Eaves Batt, Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit to its portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications.

Technical Director, Michael Hunter said Mayplas are now providing a comprehensive solution for realising passive fire protection, reducing heat loss and minimising sound transmission.

Emergency One fire engines chosen to update Iraq’s fleet

by Featured NewsProducts

Scottish business, Emergency One is delivering one of Iraq’s biggest-ever investments into its emergency services following a deal brokered by the UK government.

Ayrshire-headquartered Emergency One has been selected to supply 31 of the vehicles, half the order for Iraq’s Civil Defence Directorate, and Yorkshire based Angloco is supplying the other half.

Issued by UK Export Finance (UKEF), the government’s export credit agency, a c. $31 million loan allows Iraq’s Ministry of Interior to purchase 62 British-made fire-fighting vehicles.

The deal will facilitate the biggest overhaul of Iraqi fleet this century with each new vehicle, capable of carrying up to 6,500 litres of water and 500 litres of foam, on standby to help tackle frequent fires that break out in Iraq, especially in the summer, devastating businesses and communities.

Cumnock-based Emergency One, a UK manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles, supplies over 90% of the UK’s fire and rescue services and continues to grow its international presence.

In 2023-24, UKEF supported businesses in Scotland with £45 million in new government financing support, helping them win new contracts overseas. It has two regional representatives dedicated to supporting Scottish businesses.

Scotland Office Minister, Kirsty McNeill’s statement

Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill said: “This UK Government funding is bringing significant business to Ayrshire-based Emergency One, a leading supplier of fire and rescue vehicles.

“Deals like this, organised through the hard work of UKEF, are vital to boost our home-grown industries, support jobs and encourage growth for the benefit of the whole UK.

“I wish the company every success as they complete this contract that will make very important improvements to Iraq’s emergency services.”

By helping buyers to purchase UK exports more easily, UKEF loans secure large contracts with favourable payment terms for British businesses – including small businesses likely to need payment upfront before they can deliver a contract.

Promoting investment into local businesses and employers, this partnership supports this government’s Plan for Change to boost economic growth across all regions.

Emergency One, Managing Director, Steven Bell’s statement

Steven Bell, Managing Director at Emergency One, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be part of this significant project to modernise Iraq’s fire-fighting capabilities.

“The partnership with Iraq’s Ministry of Interior, supported by UK Export Finance, highlights the strength of British engineering and our commitment to delivering world-class fire and rescue vehicles.

“It’s an honour to contribute to the safety and resilience of communities across Iraq, and we look forward to continuing our support as part of this important collaboration.”

J.P Morgan, Global Head of Export Finance, John Meakin’s statement

J.P. Morgan acted as both Sole Mandated Lead Arranger and agent bank for the loan. Global Head of Export Finance at J.P Morgan, John Meakin said: “J.P. Morgan is delighted to support the finance of firefighting equipment from the UK to the Republic of Iraq.”

Siderise launches digital Specification Packs

by Featured NewsProducts

Siderise has launched a suite of new digital Specification Packs designed to support architects, design teams, fire engineers, consultants and specifiers in collating the technical data they need to ensure accurate passive fire protection specifications.  

With versions available for curtain wall, rainscreen, masonry, and precast and sealed architectural wall systems, each pack summarises all the relevant product information for the designated application.

They provide quick and convenient access to tools and information sources, including technical datasheets, third-party certification, standard detail drawings, BIM objects, specification information and clauses.

Additionally, by including links to the latest information, users can be assured that they are working with the most up-to-date data and certifications, reducing the risks associated with holding outdated material. 

Enhanced support services

In addition to formats of data needed throughout the early selection process, the Packs also highlight the enhanced support services available from Siderise at different project stages.

This includes support with NBS Chorus specifications as a licenced NBS Specification Writing Partner, as well as information on Siderise’s bespoke testing capacity via its UKAS ISO 17025 accredited Innovation Centre. It also contains links to book CPD seminars, product training and more. 

With the introduction of the Building Safety Act and increasing focus on data-backed specifications, these Specification Packs can help Siderise customers specify products more efficiently and with greater confidence in their decision-making.

Senior Technical Engineer for Specification, Siderise, Emmie Panagopoulos’ statement

Senior Technical Engineer for Specification, Emmie Panagopoulos, who leads the creation of these tools, explains: “Passive fire protection is a crucial element of any fire safety strategy that must be considered from the earliest design stages.

“By creating these application-specific Specification Packs, we wanted to empower the people looking to use our products to be able to make the best choices for their projects, arming them with all the details, tools and supporting services they need.

“This will help them to provide adequate levels of detail and justifications to not only satisfy requirements such as Gateway 2 applications and the creation of a Golden Thread, but also confidently explain to their clients and project partners how fire safety has been embedded into their plans and strategies from the outset.”   

New digital Specification Packs launched by Siderise: Summary

Siderise has released a collection of Specification Packs, designed to help professionals collate the technical data needed to guarantee fire protection.

Senior Technical Engineer for Specification, Emmie Panagopoulos said that passive fire protection is a crucial element of any fire safety strategy.

Vallfirest introduces new Dronster with expanded safety and efficiency features

by Featured NewsProductsVehiclesWildland Fire

Vallfirest unveils enhanced Dronster for emergency operations

Vallfirest has introduced an upgraded version of its Dronster multi-emergency robot, designed for hazardous environments such as wildfires, industrial incidents, and chemical risks.

The remote-controlled machine features a 59 HP Stage V engine and a compact build that is 30 cm narrower than comparable models.

It operates at a range of up to 150 metres and is equipped with safety measures, including an emergency stop button.

Multi-purpose functionality for various emergency scenarios

The Dronster is designed to handle multiple tasks with its ability to operate three tools simultaneously.

It supports front and rear attachments as well as an extinguishing monitor, allowing for versatility in fire suppression, forestry management, and industrial operations.

The robot can be fitted with implements such as trenchers for firebreaks, snowploughs for winter operations, and rear shovels for clearing combustible materials.

Its hydraulic connection system allows for quick tool changes depending on the emergency requirements.

Designed for safety and efficiency in hazardous environments

The remote-control system allows operators to manage the Dronster from a safe distance, reducing exposure to dangerous conditions.

With total traction and the ability to function on demanding slopes, it is engineered to work effectively in unstable terrain.

The machine incorporates a double cooling system, overturning protection, and an anti-debris protective body to enhance durability and performance in extreme conditions.

Its low fuel consumption also contributes to prolonged operational efficiency.

Mobility and deployment options for rapid response

Weighing 1,450 kg, the Dronster is built for mobility.

It can be transported via helicopter or on compact double-axle trailers for rapid deployment in emergency situations.

The machine’s design includes a high chassis for overcoming obstacles and four anchoring points for aerial transportation.

Its remote usability and wide range of movement make it adaptable for both urban and remote incident responses.

Upgraded Dronster multi-emergency robot enhances response capabilities: Summary

Vallfirest has released an upgraded version of its Dronster multi-emergency robot, designed to support emergency response operations in hazardous environments.

The remote-controlled machine features a 59 HP Stage V engine, a compact build, and a 150-metre operating range.

It can handle multiple tasks with three simultaneous tool operations, supporting various attachments such as trenchers, snowploughs, and extinguishing monitors.

The Dronster is equipped with safety features including an emergency stop button, overturning protection, and an anti-debris body.

Designed for use in wildfires, industrial incidents, and chemical risk scenarios, the robot operates efficiently on rough terrain with total traction and a double cooling system.

Its lightweight construction allows for easy transportation by helicopter or trailer, ensuring rapid deployment in emergency situations.

FLIR’S AI-based incident detection used in Damsgård Tunnel

by Featured NewsProducts

Both visual and thermal imaging cameras are used as a solution for 24/7 automatic incident detection inside tunnels. With the latest camera technology upgrade of the Damsgård Tunnel in Bergen, Norway is premiering AI-enhanced dual-vision cameras as a new evolution in incident detection.

Damsgård Tunnel Technology Upgrade

The Damsgård Tunnel is part of Norwegian National Road 555. In 2024, the tunnel will undergo a comprehensive technology upgrade, with the replacement of ventilation systems, lighting, drainage, and camera technology.

The traffic cameras from sensor specialist FLIR combine thermal and visual imaging technology in a ruggedized housing and rely on advanced deep learning algorithms that enable the camera to detect stopped vehicles, wrong-way drivers, queues, crossing pedestrians, and even smoke and fires in their early stages.

Approximately 80 FLIR cameras are scheduled for installation the second half of the year.

Visual and Thermal Incident Detection

Initially, visual CCTV cameras were used to detect incidents. The technology enabled first response teams to be deployed minutes—even seconds—after an incident or an irregularity (a fallen object, a pedestrian, a car slowing down) was detected.

The use of thermal imaging cameras has especially proven valuable for tunnel entrances and exits. There, shadows or direct sunlight can obstruct the view of visible-light cameras and therefore disturb traffic detection.

As thermal cameras detect heat, not light, they can detect traffic 24/7 and in all weather conditions.

One of the biggest advantages of thermal cameras in the field of tunnel safety is that they can effectively see through smoke. This makes them the ideal technology for tunnel safety operators or emergency response teams to find their way through a smoke-filled tunnel or for incident detection systems to spot issues in time.

FLIR thermal cameras can also spot fires at the stage of ignition, making them the fastest and most reliable technology for fire detection inside road tunnels.

The Role of Dual-Vision Cameras

In 2018, FLIR’s ITS-Series Dual AID cameras were installed at the entrance and exit of the Lyderhorn Tunnel near Bergen. In 2021, technology integrator Trafsys also installed 332 of FLIR’s dual-vision cameras in the Hundvåg and Eiganes tunnels, which are part of the extensive Ryfast project.

The cameras’ fire detection functionality proved effective when a car fire occurred in the Hundvåg tunnel in July 2020; the FLIR ITS dual thermal AID camera detected the fire within 7 seconds of visible flames, following an initial alert for a stopped vehicle and pedestrians.

Artificial Intelligence in Incident Detection

FLIR’s TrafiBot Dual AI—installed in the above-mentioned Damsgård Tunnel—announces a new wave of incident detection cameras. The camera also combines a visual and a thermal camera in one unit, but what makes it stand out is the use of artificial intelligence and deep learning.

AI algorithms embedded in the FLIR camera analyze captured images in real-time and in full resolution. This latest addition to FLIR’s portfolio of AI cameras is setting a new standard for automatic incident detection in tunnels, generating extremely accurate traffic data, incident detection information, and live track data.

Benefits of AI-Based Detection Systems

AI can help to filter out unwanted alarms by distinguishing between routine activity, weather phenomena, and actual incidents.

As an important aspect of their accuracy, AI-based systems are much more successful in detecting different vehicle classes. Detectors from FLIR will easily distinguish between a car and a van, or between a small and a large truck.

FLIR’s AI detectors can also predict vehicles trajectories. Based on vehicle parameters such as speed and direction, they can easily see where a car is going, even if for part of that trajectory the view on that car is occluded by a passing truck. This makes detection much faster and more accurate.

Since incidents can be detected much faster and with more accuracy, operators will be able to make better informed decisions, especially in high-stress situations, and they will be able to deploy emergency teams more quickly.

AI will benefit traffic planners too. Data collected from a camera can be analyzed over time to identify trends, patterns, or areas with a higher potential of incidents. This can be valuable for proactive traffic planning, infrastructure improvements, or for overall risk management.

Norwegian road tunnel uses FLIR’s AI-based incident detection: Summary

FLIR has provided a new camera technology upgrade of the Damsgård Tunnel in Bergen, Norway. Using premiering AI-enhanced dual-vision cameras for incident detection.

Zelim’s ZOE intelligent detection system aims to improve global search and rescue operations

by Featured NewsProductsSearch and Rescue

The challenges facing search and rescue operations at sea

According to Zelim, current search and rescue (SAR) technologies are insufficient for detecting and rescuing people in the water.

A lack of reliable sensor integration and human error has resulted in low success rates, with only 19% of SAR responses involving persons in the water leading to life-saving outcomes.

Former US Coast Guard officer, Commander Matt Mitchell, highlighted these limitations during his tenure, overseeing the Coast Guard’s search and rescue planning systems.

Mitchell explained: “The core challenge we face is that search and rescue authorities simply don’t have the tools to detect and track persons in the water effectively.”

ZOE: A solution to long-standing problems

Mitchell’s involvement with Zelim started after his years of service with the USCG, where he observed the difficulties faced in integrating new sensor technologies.

During his career, he found that only three of the 20 sensor types used by the Coast Guard could be reliably integrated into search plans.

This gap, combined with the unreliability of human observers, spurred his interest in Zelim’s AI-powered detection system, ZOE.

ZOE is designed to continuously scan the water around a vessel using machine learning and computer vision, detecting persons in distress.

Mitchell explained: “ZOE doesn’t get tired, it doesn’t get distracted, and it doesn’t have the inherent variability of a human searcher.”

ZOE’s advantages over traditional SAR technologies

ZOE offers several key improvements over existing SAR technologies, particularly with its ability to detect and track persons in the water with high precision.

Unlike traditional systems, ZOE operates 24/7 and can work in poor visibility and harsh conditions.

It also provides the ability to monitor for persons falling overboard, pinpointing the exact time and location of such events.

“With ZOE, we know the precise time and location of the man overboard event,” Mitchell said.

“That gives us a fighting chance to get there in time and make the rescue.”

US Coast Guard validation and global adoption

Zelim’s ZOE system gained significant validation when the US Coast Guard partnered with the company to test its capabilities.

Mitchell played a key role in facilitating this partnership, collaborating with USCG personnel to refine the system for real-world operations.

Following extensive testing, the US Coast Guard recognised the potential of ZOE, which has now been integrated into their operations.

Mitchell’s goal is to expand the use of ZOE worldwide, leveraging his network of SAR contacts to promote its adoption.

He said: “This technology has the potential to revolutionize the industry, and I’m determined to make that a reality.”

ZOE’s impact on global search and rescue operations

As Zelim’s Director of Search and Rescue for the US and Asia-Pacific, Mitchell’s mission is to ensure that ZOE becomes a standard tool for search and rescue authorities around the world.

The technology’s ability to accurately detect persons in the water and integrate seamlessly into SAR systems could significantly improve rescue efficiency and save lives at sea.

“This is the biggest breakthrough in search and rescue since the advent of search theory back in 1946,” Mitchell asserted.

Zelim’s ZOE intelligent detection system: Summary

Zelim’s ZOE system, led by former US Coast Guard officer Matt Mitchell, aims to address the limitations of current search and rescue technologies.

ZOE uses AI and machine learning to improve detection and tracking of persons in distress in the water.

After successful trials with the US Coast Guard, Mitchell is working to expand ZOE’s use globally.

This system is seen as a potential solution to long-standing SAR challenges, with the goal of improving rescue rates and saving lives.

Tackling extreme terrain with Vallfirest’s cutting-edge firefighting solutions

by Breaking NewsPPEWildland Fire

Vallfirest reveals how collaboration with firefighting professionals worldwide has inspired new tools for managing unpredictable wildfires

Wildfires are a disturbance fuelled by climate change, directly impacting ecosystems and society.

Experts worldwide point out that the evolving nature of wildfires is introducing a new category, defined by their size, intensity, rapid spread, erratic behaviour, and simultaneity, which exceed not only the suppression capacity but also the decision-making and management abilities of intervention teams, pushing them to the brink of collapse.

In this context, Vallfirest has emerged as a global leader, combining technical expertise, collaboration with professionals worldwide, and a strong focus on innovation.

Vallfirest’s mission is to revolutionise wildfire management by equipping professionals with state-of-the-art PPE, tools, and technology to perform operations more safely and efficiently, even in the most extreme conditions.

The complexity of 21st-century wildfires, defined by their extreme intensity, unpredictable behaviour, and massive scale, demands a new approach to forest management.

This includes new strategies, tactics, and manoeuvres requiring tools and technologies that are not only effective but also adaptable to these changes.

This article explores some of the company’s latest innovations, highlighting products such as the Xtreme Boots, the new Xtreme Mask, the Dronster, and the Universal Pump Flotation System, all designed to tackle these challenges.

Redefining protection: the Xtreme Boots

In the realm of personal protection, the Xtreme Boots represent a milestone for wildland firefighters.

These boots are a revolution in protective footwear, adapting technical mountaineering footwear technology to meet the needs of intervention teams.

Manufactured with high-heat-resistant materials, they can withstand extreme temperatures while providing comfort during long shifts.

They feature a Vibram® technical sole, exclusively designed for Panter® firefighting footwear, with a special formulation resistant to extreme heat (+300 °C), adhering to all surface types, and offering exceptional traction and stability.

Furthermore, their ergonomic design significantly reduces fatigue, making them an essential ally for firefighters working in extreme conditions.

These boots have been tested in wildfires worldwide, where their performance has exceeded expectations, protecting firefighters and allowing them to operate more comfortably.

The Xtreme Boots are certified under the EN 15090:2012 standard with markings F1PA + HI3 + CI + SRC.

A leap forward in respiratory safety

The new Xtreme Mask, available from February 2025, marks a significant advancement in facial and respiratory protection for wildland firefighters.

Specifically designed to withstand extreme conditions, this multipurpose device features a P3 R filter that protects against particles, microparticles, nanoparticles, smoke, mist, and other common agents in fires.

Optionally, it can be equipped with an ABEK1P3 R filter for additional protection against gases, vapors, acids, and other compounds present in slow-combustion fires.

The textile component of the mask will be certified under specific points of the EN ISO 15384:2020/A1:2021 standard for wildland firefighting protective clothing.

The half-mask will comply with EN 140:1998/AC:1999 for respiratory protection devices, the P3 R filter with EN 143:2022 for particle filters, and the ABEK1P3 R filter with EN 14387:2022 for gas and combined filters.

Additionally, this PPE (combination of textile component/half-mask/filters) will be the first respiratory protection device to include an official declaration issued by the Notified Body 0161, certifying the compatibility of these components for proper and safe use.

With an ergonomic design ensuring a comfortable fit and optimal visibility, the Xtreme Mask combines protection, ergonomics, and functionality, providing firefighters with the confidence needed in highly demanding environments.

Dronster: versatility for all terrains

The multi-emergency Dronster robot has been reimagined in a more powerful version, designed to revolutionise emergency operations.

Its compact and versatile design allows for easy and rapid deployment thanks to its weight, size, and configuration tailored to various emergencies.

In forest environments, the Dronster is ideal for both prevention and suppression, capable of operating on all types of terrain with consistent performance.

It can enhance the efficiency of teams in forest management tasks, creating safe zones, and constructing defence lines.

In its forest version, it can be equipped with a high-power shredder with a lifting capacity of 1 meter, a rear blade for organic material removal, and optional front and rear winches.

In industrial or civil environments, the Dronster improves the safety of intervention teams by accommodating different attachments depending on the operation type: a front pushing blade, a monitor, or a high-power fan.

Additionally, this robot is used for material transportation and active firefighting tasks, standing out as a versatile and robust tool.

Its ability to perform heavy and repetitive tasks in challenging terrains allows human teams to focus on more critical strategies.

Efficiency afloat: the Universal Pump Flotation System

The vft Universal Pump Flotation System (UPFS) is an innovative accessory capable of transforming a portable pump into a floating pump, improving transport logistics and equipment management efficiency, thereby enhancing the performance of existing teams.

The UPFS is lightweight and compact, facilitating transport and setup within minutes, making it ideal for rapid and emergency operations.

From concept to combat-tested solutions

Behind each Vallfirest innovation lies a commitment to research, co-creation, and lessons learned.

Before launching a product to market, exhaustive tests are conducted in real scenarios, working hand-in-hand with experienced firefighters.

This approach ensures that every tool is not only technically effective but also practical and tailored to the specific needs of the user.

Vallfirest’s commitment to the wildfire community and innovation has led the company to expand to over 80 countries, where its products are making a difference in wildfire management.

This article was originally published in the January 2025 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal – to read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Reshaping rescue with MSA Bristol

by Featured NewsPPE

Explore MSA Bristol’s cutting-edge protective clothing, designed for varied rescue missions with innovative materials, enhanced comfort and duty-specific engineering

Firefighters face a variety of challenging scenarios, ranging from technical rescue missions to structure fires and wildland firefighting.

Having the right protective gear and technology to suit a given situation is critical.

This year at Intersec 2025, MSA Safety featured its innovative line of Bristol fire protective clothing; solutions that are helping to safeguard those at the frontlines of increasingly diverse fire and rescue missions.

MSA Bristol Rescue Stretch

Bristol’s newest design, the Bristol Rescue Stretch, will be on display.

It integrates one of the industry’s latest innovations, the GORE-TEX CROSSTECH® PYRAD® stretch fabric, which is a lightweight fabric, that is flexible, waterproof, wind proof and has blood-borne pathogen protection.

It also features incidental flame protection and comes in varying colors, styles and fits.

MSA Bristol X4 Structural Suit

Addressing the customer’s desire for freedom of movement and expectations to deliver light weighted garments for the hardest interventions, the X4 Structural Suit features fabric such as Hainsworth’s PBI NRG LP.

Weighing only 190gsm – it helps to reduce the risk of heat stress and helps the wearer perform at their best for longer.

This light, durable fabric provides flame resistance and chemical protection.

MSA Bristol X4 TRW-Hybrid Suit

The MSA Bristol X4 TRW-Hybrid™ (Technical Rescue Wildland Hybrid) suit is a versatile and lightweight suit that can be converted from technical rescue to wildland fire interventions by zipping the moisture barrier in or out.

A removable GORE-TEX Crosstech Flameliner provides water resistance, breathability and protection from blood-borne pathogens, whilst the 50mm Heatseal segmented triple trim reflective is breathable.

MSA Bristol X4 Wildland Garment

Designed to address the need for enhanced protection during long-lasting interventions in high-temperature environments, the MSA Bristol X4 Wildland duty-specific garment is a single-layer lightweight solution with underarm gussets for improved sweat and heat transfer, enabling firefighters to act with agility and comfort.

The X4 Wildland garment is designed to be worn for longer periods of time in hot environments.

It offers lightweight comfort to help firefighters in situations where wearing a structural suit could be too inefficient.

This article was originally published in the January 2025 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal – to read your FREE digital copy, click here.

S Jones Containers provide Cardiff Uni racing team with specialist unit

by Featured NewsPeopleProductsProjects

Container conversion company, S Jones Containers, has provided Cardiff University’s School of Engineering with a bespoke, secure battery testing and storage unit for its Formula Student team, Cardiff Racing.

The specialist container is used to safely store and charge batteries for Cardiff University’s Formula Student racing team, which is made up of students from across the engineering degree disciplines.

Cardiff Racing competes every year in the Formula Student (FSUK) competition, which tasks teams to design, build and race a single-seater race car, and became the first British team to win FSUK in 2017. The team is making the leap to electric racing cars making battery safety paramount.

Features of the unit

As the unit is located on the university’s busy city centre campus in close proximity to other buildings, S Jones Conversions Division incorporated additional safety elements as part of the design, such as fire-rated materials throughout to make sure the entire container is fire rated from inside to out to give 60 minutes of fire resistance, and installing three phases of electrics – all with surge protection.

The 10ft container, which was converted at S Jones Containers’ specialist workshop in the West Midlands, was also fitted with an external isolator and a powerful 5KW HVAC unit – deliberately oversized to keep the equipment cool at all times.

The new battery testing and storage unit also features a super strong steel 60 Min Fire Rated Door and doorset and is securely locked with S Jones Containers’ own heavy duty patented Contain-A-Lock® system which is corrosion resistant and tamper proof.

The unit was spray-painted to a dark olive green shade to blend with its surroundings. It took just four weeks from initial design to completion, ready to deliver to campus.

This is the second project S Jones Conversions Division has completed for Cardiff University. A few years ago, the team created a specialist battery testing and storage unit for the university as part of a previous research project at the Centre of Research into Energy, Waste and Environment.

Space Manager, Cardiff University School of Engineering, Anthony James’ statement

Anthony James, Space Manager at Cardiff University School of Engineering commented: “We couldn’t be happier with the service we received from S Jones Containers. The design and the finish of the container are exceptional and will help us build on our racing success in a safe environment.”

Conversions General Manager, S Jones Containers, Andrew Nicholls’ statement

Andrew Nicholls, Conversions General Manager at S Jones Containers added: “Our specialist battery testing and storage units are a proven solution that we’ve developed following consultation with representatives from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service as well as battery manufacturers.

“This is just one example of how we’re helping to support the research and development of next generation battery power by providing a containerised space for testing to be carried out safely. We’re proud to work with leading research teams to create bespoke solutions that meet their exact needs.”  

Cardiff Uni Racing team provided with a bespoke unit by S Jones Containers: Summary

S Jones Containers has provided Cardiff Universities School of Engineering with a battery tested and storage unit, designed to support the needs of their successful Cardiff Racing Formula Student team.