Ballyclare selected as preferred supplier on National Firefighter PPE Framework

National Firefighter PPE Framework appointment sees Ballyclare chosen across multiple PPE and service categories for UK fire and rescue services

Ballyclare has been selected as a preferred supplier on the National Firefighter PPE Framework, a new procurement initiative designed to provide modern firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) and related services to the UK’s approximately 50,000 firefighters.

The National Firefighter PPE Framework, managed by the Kent and Medway Towns Fire and Rescue Authority, aims to streamline procurement processes for fire and rescue services while providing access to high-quality PPE ensembles and maintenance services.

Following a competitive tender process that included technical assessments, cost evaluations and practical user trials, Ballyclare secured selection across several categories, including Managed Services, Structural Firefighting PPE, Lightweight Firefighting PPE, Structural Firefighting Boots, and Cleaning and Maintenance.

The company’s submission included a next-generation version of its Xenon structural firefighting ensemble, designed to provide protection during structural firefighting operations. The ensemble incorporates a three-layer fabric construction, reinforced elbow and knee protection, and fire-retardant phosphorescent tape intended to improve visibility in low-light environments. The garment has also been engineered with durable seams, stitching and fabrics to withstand operational demands and repeated cleaning cycles.

Also selected under the framework was Ballyclare’s newly developed lightweight hybrid jacket and trouser ensemble for technical rescue and wildland firefighting applications. The garment is designed to meet the relevant EN standards for both operational environments and features flame-retardant fabrics intended to provide protection against blood-borne pathogens, chemicals and particulates while maintaining wearer comfort.

Through the framework, Ballyclare will additionally supply two fire boot models from its Tuffking range, which are used by fire and rescue services across the UK.

The company will also provide cleaning and maintenance services through the framework, offering a seven-day turnaround service for the collection, cleaning, repair and return of firefighting kit. Ballyclare said the service will be delivered in partnership with a professional cleaning provider operating facilities at multiple locations across the UK.

Philip Tasker, Global Sales Lead for Fire & Security at Ballyclare, said: “We are delighted that our services have been selected through such a competitive process and that our kit has been recognised for its technical performance, wearer comfort and overall value for money. Our success reflects the strength of our product innovation, our deep understanding of the fire sector, the agility of our company as a UK-based SME and the expertise of our teams across design, manufacturing and service delivery.

“Ultimately, this is about making sure the UK’s firefighters have kit they can trust when it matters most, and we’re proud to be delivering that on a national scale.”

The framework is intended to simplify procurement for fire and rescue services while ensuring access to compliant PPE and support services through approved suppliers. Ballyclare’s appointment positions the company to support fire and rescue organisations across the UK through the framework’s procurement structure.

Olympia Electronics launches new emergency exit signs

Olympia Electronics has revealed the launch of its new MLD PRO Series, a modern emergency exit sign solution.

According to the company, the signs have been designed to meet the demands of contemporary architectural projects.

The new sign has a slim profile, premium aesthetics and advanced LED technology.

The company added that the MLD PRO combines high visibility, reliability and effortless installation in a single product.

MLD PRO Series

The company explained that the MLD PRO Series has been designed with a number of notable features, including:

Minimal and contemporary design, a sleek and elegant appearance that integrates seamlessly into hotels, offices, retail spaces, commercial buildings and public facilities.

Maintained or non-maintained flexible operation modes to satisfy different project requirements.

Three hour emergency autonomy equipped with advanced LiFePO4 battery technology, ensuring dependable operation during power failures.

High-efficiency LED illumination uniform pictogram lighting with low energy consumption and extended LED lifetime.

Easy installation suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting, enabling quick and straightforward installation.

Fast pictogram replacement tool-free pictogram replacement saves valuable maintenance time.

Specifications

According to the company, the key specifications include:

  • Viewing distance: 20 meters
  • Protection rating: IP20
  • Emergency duration: 180 minutes
  • Battery technology: LiFePO4
  • Operation: Maintained or non-maintained
  • Mounting options: Wall or ceiling
  • Integrated TEST Button

Ideal Applications

According to Olympia Electronics, the ideal application for the MLD PRO Series include:

  • Hotels & hospitality
  • Office buildings
  • Shopping centres
  • Educational facilities
  • Healthcare buildings
  • Public infrastructure
  • Modern commercial spaces

Designed for modern spaces

The company highlighted that the MLD PRO Series delivers the perfect balance between aesthetics and safety.

Combining contemporary design, reliable emergency operation and easy maintenance, it is the ideal choice for architects, consultants, contractors and facility managers looking for a premium emergency exit sign solution, added Olympia Electronics.

London Fire Brigade releases new rescue data

New data from the London Fire Brigade has revealed that firefighters rescued 2,455 people between April 2025 and March 2026, averaging at seven people per day.

From fires in high-rise buildings and multi-vehicle collisions to rescues from lifts and the Thames, firefighters used their technical expertise to rescue Londoners in numerous situations across the capital.

Fire rescues in London

Firefighters rescued 247 people from fires over the 12-month period – an 18% increase on the previous financial year.

During the year, crews carried out rescues from 44 different types of emergencies across London, with July 2025 recording the highest number of rescues at 258.

According to the Brigade, the most common rescues involved people collapsed behind locked doors, with 1,050 people helped, followed by 379 rescues from lifts.

The fire with the most rescues occurred in Perivale, where crews brought five people to safety following an e-bike fire in a ground floor flat.

In Havering, firefighters rescued nine people trapped in a lift at a commercial property.

Arson attacks

As London’s rescue service, the Brigade is also responsible for investigating the causes of fires across the capital through its Fire Investigation Team.

Since the arson attack on the Hatzolah Ambulances in March, the Brigade has responded to seven targeted arson incidents.

The Brigade has also worked with organisations including Community Security Trust following an attack on a synagogue in Kenton.

“Respond swiftly and with exceptional skill”

Jonathan Smith, Commissioner of London Fire said: “Firefighters across London are called to apply their specialist skills to rescue an average of seven people a day from challenging and often unpredictable situations.

“Last year, more than 2,400 people were brought to safety – from fires, medical emergencies, chemical spills, water rescues and countless unusual incidents.

“These figures demonstrate not only the scale of the demands placed on our firefighters, but also their technical expertise and commitment to public safety.”

He continued: “This vital work is only possible with the continued support we receive from the Mayor of London, which enables us to maintain our capabilities and provide the best possible service to our communities.

“As new risks and challenges arise, we continue to develop our emergency response.

“Working alongside our partners in the police and ambulance services, we’re committed to making London safe for all its communities.

“Whether someone is in need at a fire, has collapsed behind a locked door, is stuck in a lift, Londoners can be confident that our firefighters will respond swiftly and with exceptional skill,” Smith concluded.

Rescue training and incidents

The Brigade found that the most common rescue carried out in 2025/26 involved people collapsed behind locked doors, with firefighters helping nearly three people a day, often in support of the London Ambulance Service.

Firefighters also regularly respond to special service incidents where no fire is involved, including chemical incidents and water rescues.

The average rescue took one hour and three minutes, although some lasted only minutes while the longest, involving a flat fire, continued for 23 hours.

Firefighters regularly train for specialist rescue scenarios.

In the last year, the Brigade said that it has carried out Marauding Terrorist Attack training in Colchester, chemical incident training on the Elizabeth Line and aircraft and road traffic collision exercises with RAF Northolt.

The Brigade also shared expertise on responding to complex incidents with partners including NATO and the US State Department.

“A safer London for everyone”

Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for the Fire Service, said: “Every day, London’s firefighters are responding to emergencies across the city and running towards danger.

“Whether it’s life-threatening fires, medical emergencies or complex rescue situations, their courageous actions save lives.

“These new figures highlight the vital and varied work they do and the Mayor and I will continue to ensure the Brigade have the funding and support needed to build a safer London for everyone,” Pipe concluded.

The London Fire Brigade

The Brigade operates 142 fire engines across 103 fire stations, supported by specialist resources including aerial appliances, Fire Rescue Units, Urban Search and Rescue Teams, drone teams and fireboats.

Every London firefighter is also trained in the Brigade’s Marauding Terrorist Attack response capability, allowing crews to work alongside police and ambulance services in high-risk environments.

Boss Door Controls reveals new cam-action door closer catalogue

Boss Door Controls has released its new cam-action door closer catalogue, offering a guide to architects, specifiers and trade professionals.

The catalogue

According to the company, the new 44-page catalogue showcases an extensive range of cam-action hardware, designed to meet the demands of high-traffic commercial and residential applications.

To support accurate product selection in these environments, the catalogue provides practical and detailed specification information for the latest series of overhead and concealed cam-action closers, including EN performance ratings, product features, dimensional drawings, power sizes and adjustment details.

There is also a first look at the new Boss Door Controls electromagnetic cam action closer range.

Available in both surface-mounted and concealed configurations, these units are designed to be hardwired into the alarm system of modern buildings to provide effortless accessibility, ease of movement and life safety compliance.

Featuring intuitive cam-action technology, the TS6.SA-EMF track reliably holds doors open during normal operation and automatically releases them upon activation of the fire alarm.

The complete range is Certifire approved, ensuring suitable performance for fire door applications operating on low voltage circuits.

The company added that Guiderail channels have been redesigned and re-tested across the new TS6.SA-EMF range, eliminating the need for the additional L-bracket, typically required for push-side door mount installations.

This enhancement is referenced within the new catalogue and reduces overall installation costs whilst delivering a cleaner, more streamlined appearance.

Boss Door Controls said that the catalogue also highlights the wide variety of finish options that it is known for, ensuring its range of precision-engineered, slim-profile door control solutions integrate into the vision of any architectural design project.

“Reliable, innovative and aesthetically appealing”

Lee Piper, Sales and Marketing Director at Boss Door Controls comments on the launch: “Boss Door Controls collaborates with architects and specifiers worldwide to deliver reliable, innovative and aesthetically appealing hardware solutions for projects where long-term performance is essential.

“Our latest cam-action product catalogue is an extension of this expertise and reflects our ongoing commitment to raising specification confidence across the industry.

“Our growing range of cam-action door closers offers an ideal balance of mechanical efficiency and ease of use, and the launch of our TS6.SA-EMF electromagnetic overhead closer – which is detailed in the new catalogue – further strengthens our offering, as we continue to promote safe and inclusive design principles,” Piper added.

“This is our most comprehensive and carefully curated product catalogue to date.”

He concluded: “We’re proud to expand our library with a clear, dependable and supportive specification resource that further streamlines the product selection process whilst supporting compliance and design flexibility.”

Advanced launches new-CPD on smoke control systems

Advanced launches a new course focused on smoke control systems and its role in protecting life and property.

According to the company, this new release expands on its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme.

Titled Smoke Control Systems: Principles, Pitfalls and Protection

The free CPD has been developed to provide consultants, specifiers, fire engineers, installers, facilities managers and other fire safety professionals with a practical understanding of smoke control strategies, system types and compliance requirements.

The company said that the module explores the principles of smoke movement and the importance of smoke control in supporting safe evacuation, firefighting access and property protection.

Attendees will gain insight into natural and mechanical smoke ventilation systems, smoke exhaust and pressurisation methods, as well as the key components used within smoke control systems.

The CPD also examines the standards and regulations that govern smoke control design and maintenance, including Approved Document B, BS EN 12101, BS 7346-8, BS 9991 and BS 9999.

Alongside this, the course highlights common design, installation and maintenance pitfalls, helping attendees better understand best practice approaches and long-term compliance responsibilities.

“A critical role”

Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer at Advanced said: “Smoke control systems play a critical role in modern fire safety strategies, particularly in complex and high-rise buildings where maintaining clear escape routes is essential.

“This CPD has been designed to provide practical, real-world guidance on the principles behind smoke control systems, the challenges involved in their design and maintenance and the standards that govern them.”

“By helping industry professionals strengthen their understanding of smoke control, we can support them in designing better systems and delivering improved compliance, ultimately creating safer buildings,” he concluded.

Certifications and education

According to Advanced, all of the CPDs are certified by the CPD Certification Service, with attendees receiving a certificate of attendance upon successful completion.

The new smoke control CPD joins Advanced’s growing portfolio of educational modules, including:

  • Introduction to Fire Detection & Alarm Systems
  • Managing False Fire Alarms: Tools & Techniques
  • A Guide to Meeting BS 8629

HAIX launches two products at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

HAIX has revealed its next generation of firefighting boots at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 alongside the new FIRE EAGLE 3.0.

According to HAIX, the FIRE EAGLE features the brand new ‘OneTouch’ closure system and the FIRE EAGLE 3.0 EXG.

Under the guiding theme “United by Fire”, HAIX will launch the two new product innovations at its stand at INTERSCHUTZ in Hall 15, stand H47.

All good things come in 3.0

With the FIRE EAGLE 3.0, HAIX presents the third evolution of one of Europe’s most successful firefighting boots.

Developed with extensive practical experience from fire departments around the world, the company said the new generation combines the boot’s proven strengths with innovative technologies for even greater speed, comfort and safety.

Decades of expertise

When the alarm sounds, every second counts.

That is why the development of the new FIRE EAGLE 3.0 focused on one core aspect: maximum operational readiness in the shortest possible time. 

With the new OneTouch closure system, the boot can be closed and securely fastened with a single movement, saving valuable time, when every second counts.

The lacing system is also automatically stowed away, quickly, intuitively and reliably delivering a perfect fit every time.   

In addition to the new closure system, the FIRE EAGLE 3.0 features numerous further improvements, including: an optimised last shape for an even better fit, a robust 3D rubber toe cap for abrasion protection, enhanced visibility through reflective elements and an adaptive heel construction for greater stability and comfort.

HAIX added that it is certified to the highest standards, it fulfils all requirements for modern firefighting and technical rescue operations. 

Empowering firefighters worldwide

With the FIRE EAGLE 3.0 EXG, HAIX and GORE-TEX are delivering the next step in innovation.

The new model uses the innovative GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD upper material technology, specifically developed to permanently reduce water absorption. 

The firefighting boot with GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD is noticeably light, even when wet. 

At the same time, the company said the material provides high robustness, reliable flame resistance and maximum protection in combination with the proven GORE-TEX inner technology. 

Less weight means greater mobility, reduced fatigue and consistently higher performance, especially during long and physically demanding operations. 

Passion meets experience

For decades, HAIX highlighted that it has consistently focused on the needs of professional, industrial and volunteer fire departments as well as special forces around the world.

Close cooperation with users forms the basis of every product development.

Real-life challenges lead to solutions that set international standards. 

Whether protection against heat and flames, ergonomic fit, reduced weight or faster operational readiness, the new FIRE EAGLE 3.0 models exemplify how HAIX combines technological innovation with craftsmanship perfection, the company added.

“We support you”

Michael Haimerl, CEO of HAIX commented: “We give everything so firefighters can continue to give everything in the future.

“This ambition drives us every day in research, development and production.

“That is why the global firefighting community looks to our products and why we focus heavily on actively shaping this role as an innovation leader.” 

“With the FIRE EAGLE 3.0 EXG, HAIX once again demonstrates its ambition to identify technological developments at an early stage and, together with strong partners, translate them into practical innovations for emergency responders. 

“We do not develop our products for firefighters – we develop them with them. For us, INTERSCHUTZ is far more than just a trade fair.”

Haimerl continued: “It is the place where the international firefighting community comes together with HAIX.

“That is exactly what our motto United by Fire stands for: solidarity, passion and the shared ambition to improve every single day.

“You give everything, every single day and we support you.

“The next generation of our firefighting boots demonstrates exactly how we translate this promise into real innovation,” he concluded.  

Meeting HAIX at INTERSCHUTZ

Together with around 150 employees from all over the world, HAIX is transforming its INTERSCHUTZ stand into a meeting place for the international firefighting community.

Visitors in Hall 15, Stand H47 can expect a comprehensive programme featuring product innovations, in person meetings and numerous opportunities for professional exchange.

Streamlight introduces the Dualie Rechargeable ATEX

Streamlight has announced the launch of the Dualie Rechargeable ATEX.

The company said that the new release is an intrinsically safe firefighting light approved for use in ATEX-certified Zone zero hazardous locations.

It combines high-performance illumination, dual beams and rugged durability in a lightweight design.

“An ideal lighting solution”

Michael F Dineen, President of Streamlight commented: “Firefighters, industrial and other professionals rely on their flashlights to perform under frequently trying conditions.

“The Dualie Rechargeable ATEX provides that assurance when working at scenes where potentially dangerous substances may be present.

“It’s an ideal lighting solution for industrial, fire, oil and gas and confined space applications,” he concluded.

Features

The company said that the new light features a forward-facing spot beam and a side-facing flood light that can be used independently or simultaneously to improve task visibility, situational awareness and user safety.

An integrated belt clip with dual built-in magnets for grabbing onto steel surfaces also permits hands-free operation, added Streamlight.

The new product features opposing switches for easy, one-handed operation even with gloved hands.

Streamlight explained that it is built with a durable, non-conductive, corrosion-proof polymer body, it features a textured grip for secure handling and is powered by a 3300mAh lithium ion rechargeable battery.

An adjustable multi-adapter is also available to securely attach the light to select fire and industrial helmets.

The light features three modes:

  • Spot – delivering 230 lumens, 15,000 candela over 245 metres and a 10-hour run time
  • Flood – producing 110 lumens, 70 candela, a 17-metre beam distance and 20 hours of run time
  • Combined Flood & Spot – When used together, the two intersecting beams offer 325 lumens and seven hours of run time

Measurements

Measuring 19.05 cm in length, the light weighs 201 grams.

The company highlighted that the unbreakable polycarbonate face cap and side lens with scratch-resistant coating measures 4.72 cm.

It is IP67 rated, dust-tight and water-proof to 1 metre for 30 minutes.

The light also is impact-resistant tested to 2 metres.

Rescue Intellitech launches Solo Rescue Plus

Rescue Intellitech has revealed the launch of the Solo Rescue Plus at Interschutz 2026 in Hannover.

According to the company, the new machine succeeds the widely deployed Solo Rescue in PPE decontamination for fire and rescue services.

Building on the Solo Rescue, the new system is designed to make systematic, compliant post-incident decontamination the operational standard, directly addressing the occupational health crisis of firefighter cancer.

Exposure control

The International Agency for Research on Cancer, the WHO’s cancer research body, classifies firefighting as a Group 1 carcinogen, with contamination routinely travelling from the fireground to stations, vehicles and homes.

Solo Rescue Plus offers purpose-built exposure control, making thorough decontamination fast, consistent and achievable after each incident, Rescue Intellitech added.

“More efficient than our current ones”

Phill Hall of RSNV Fire Academy, Sweden, a Solo Rescue user since 2013 stated: “The new machine is more efficient than our current ones.

“Most gear gets clean after only six minutes and for the really dirty ones a 12-minute programme gives excellent results.

“We’ve also seen significantly lower detergent consumption, maybe 40-50% less, which could save us around 200,000 to 250,000 SEK per year,” he added.

Solo Rescue Plus

Rescue Intellitech explained that the Solo Rescue Plus incorporates re-engineered spray nozzles operating from the sides, upper and lower positions, providing improved coverage across all PPE types.

The rotating basket works in combination with the nozzles to ensure full coverage with no blind spots, while a programme option to disable the lower spray helps prevent water ingress when washing boots.

A fresh water function allows services to replace water after every cycle, meeting the strictest decontamination protocols.

The company added that efficiency is further enhanced by a reduced wash tank volume, resulting in lower detergent and water usage, decreased running costs and shorter fill and heat-up times.

Four integrated dosing pumps let services tailor cleaning product dosage to their specific protocols, whether using separate cleaning agents, defoamer, disinfectant or any combination required by their workflow.

“Operationally achievable after every incident”

Nick Croad, Area Sales Manager, UK and Ireland, Rescue Intellitech commented: “We believe clean gear should be the standard, not the exception.

“Solo Rescue Plus is built on direct feedback from fire services and exists to make compliant decontamination operationally achievable, after every incident, not just when time allows,” he concluded.

Availability

According to the company, Solo Rescue Plus is expected to be available in the UK from autumn 2026.

It carries a 24-month parts and labour warranty.

Interschutz 2026

Rescue Intellitech is exhibiting at Interschutz 2026, Hannover, Germany, Hall 14, Stand H40 between 1-6 June 2026, where you can witness on stand product demonstrations.

Is the safety of fire suppression systems considered in BESS hazards?

In today’s era of large-scale energy storage deployment, fire safety is no longer simply a matter of “whether a fire can be extinguished.” When a lithium-ion battery goes into thermal runaway, it releases large quantities of flammable gases, including hydrogen, carbon monoxide and methane.

When these gases mix with air and accumulate within confined spaces such as BESS containers, they can reach explosive limits. Once that happens, any ignition source can trigger a violent explosion.

However, one risk that has long been overlooked is that the fire suppression product itself can become the ignition source for an explosion.

Conventional fire suppression systems can become ignition sources

Conventional fire suppression systems—such as gas systems, CO₂ extinguishers and FK-5112 systems—typically contain high-pressure vessels, solenoid actuators and electrical tubing.

In the event of flammable gas accumulation inside an energy storage enclosure, if these devices activate or malfunction, their internal electrical contacts, motor operation and high-pressure discharge can generate electrical arcs, high temperatures or mechanical sparks—potentially igniting the surrounding flammable gas atmosphere.

In other words, a fire suppression system without explosion-proof design can be more dangerous in an energy storage explosion scenario than the fire itself.

Are aerosol fire suppression systems suitable for hazardous BESS environments?

Aerosol fire suppression systems have become one of the commonly used fire protection solutions in BESS due to their non-pressurised design, simple installation and maintenance and environmental benefits. So, the question is: how do aerosol units perform in potentially explosive atmospheres?

If we look at the design standards for aerosol systems, not all aerosol products are automatically suitable for use in hazardous explosive areas:

EN 15276-2:2019—Fixed firefighting systems—Condensed aerosol extinguishing systems—Part 2: Design, installation and maintenance—Clause 4.3 explicitly states: Where aerosol generators are used in potentially explosive atmosphere, the compatibility of the generator to the atmosphere for the determined lifetime should be assessed according to ATEX directive 2014/34/EU[5].

ISO 15779:2011—Condensed aerosol fire extinguishing systems—Requirements and test methods for components and system design, installation and maintenance —General requirements—Clause 4.6 similarly states: Under certain conditions, the potential for explosive atmospheres may exist. Areas where such potential may exist are classified as hazardous. Condensed aerosols may be used in hazardous areas subject to the manufacturer obtaining the specific listings and approvals for such areas from the appropriate authorities.

Only when an aerosol unit has obtained the necessary approval for use in explosive atmospheres can it be installed in BESS. This is likely a design requirement that has been overlooked within the industry.

Explosion-proof fire suppression design is becoming critical for energy storage safety

Energy storage safety is a complete, multi-layered defense: it requires preventing thermal runaway, controlling flammable gas accumulation and—most critically—ensuring that the fire suppression equipment that activates under accident conditions is itself safe and reliable.

With their non-pressurised design, arc-free operation and modular construction, aerosol fire suppression systems—after obtaining explosion-proof certification—are a fire protection solution worth prioritising in energy storage applications.

Energy storage safety is no longer just about “whether the fire can be put out.” Under the most severe accident conditions, whether the fire suppression product itself remains safe and operational is what designers should consider most. An effective system design is one that strictly follows the fire suppression system’s design standards.

Advanced fire protection systems for battery storage, offshore wind and critical infrastructure

HAFEX CEO Ufuk Can Günaydın discusses how advanced fire protection systems are evolving to support battery energy storage, offshore wind, marine operations and critical infrastructure in increasingly complex risk environments

As industries accelerate investment in renewable energy, electrification, critical infrastructure and offshore operations, fire protection requirements are becoming increasingly complex.

From Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and offshore wind turbines to marine vessels, high-risk environments require suppression systems designed specifically for operational demands that conventional solutions may not fully address.

In this context, HAFEX, a fire protection engineering company specialising in suppression technologies for technically demanding sectors, develops and manufactures fire protection systems with a focus on reliability, certification and performance in mission-critical environments.

Led by Fire Engineer and CEO Ufuk Can Günaydın, the company has expanded internationally by developing sector[1]specific solutions tailored to challenging operating conditions, including offshore environments, battery storage installations, telecommunications infrastructure and military assets.

“The key factor has been our ability to combine engineering expertise with sector-specific fire protection solutions,” Günaydın tells IFSJ. “These industries require more than standard fire suppression; they demand reliability, certification, adaptability and a deep understanding of operational risks.”

Fire protection strategies for battery energy storage systems

As renewable energy deployment accelerates globally, HAFEX has identified BESS as a major strategic growth area.

“BESS applications are one of the most important focus areas for us,” says Günaydın. “Lithium-ion battery fires behave very differently from conventional fires, especially because of thermal runaway and the risk of re-ignition.”

To address these challenges, HAFEX has developed aerosol and clean-agent suppression technologies designed for rapid activation, early-stage suppression and protection within enclosed battery environments.

The company also places emphasis on system integration, detection and risk-based design, aiming to reduce fire spread and support safer long-term operation of infrastructure.

Fire protection challenges across offshore wind and marine infrastructure

Marine and offshore environments represent another major focus area for HAFEX, particularly as offshore wind development continues to expand globally.

“Offshore and marine environments are challenging because fire protection systems must operate under harsh conditions such as vibration, humidity, saltwater exposure, limited access and extreme weather,” Günaydın explains.

For its part, HAFEX has developed systems incorporating real-time fire detection, continuous temperature monitoring and daily reporting of environmental changes to support early risk identification.

The company protects wind turbine risk zones separately, including nacelles, transformers and electrical cabinets, allowing more targeted suppression and risk management.

This approach has already been tested in operational environments. According to HAFEX, seven discharge cases have been recorded within installations for Enel Green Power Mexico across more than 300 Siemens Gamesa wind turbines, with three confirmed fire incidents successfully extinguished.

Following these deployments, the company has expanded further into the Asia-Pacific region, where it has reported protecting more than 400 offshore wind turbines across multiple global turbine brands.

Fire suppression solutions for critical electronic infrastructure

Meanwhile, in environments containing sensitive electronic infrastructure, fire suppression requirements differ significantly from conventional industrial settings. The priority is not only extinguishing fire quickly but doing so without damaging critical assets or disrupting operations.

“For sensitive electronics, the goal is not only to extinguish the fire but also to protect the equipment and avoid damaging the electronics,” says Günaydın.

Accordingly, HAFEX manufactures a certified strontium-based aerosol suppression system designed to avoid the conductivity issues that potassium-based extinguishing agents faces, particularly strontium-based aerosols has no hydrophilic characteristics.

The company proves that it’s clean and electrically non-conductive suppression technologies are suitable for data centres, server rooms, electrical cabinets and telecommunication systems.

HAFEX also reports protecting more than 4,000 4G and 5G base stations globally. “Our approach focuses on fast detection, targeted suppression and minimal residue—nearly none—which allows critical systems to remain protected without causing secondary damage,” Günaydın explains.

Fire protection requirements for defence and military applications

HAFEX also supplies fire suppression systems for naval and air force applications, where reliability and compliance requirements are significantly more demanding than in many commercial projects.

“Defence applications require a much higher level of reliability, durability and technical compliance,” says Günaydın. “Systems must perform under vibration, shock, restricted space, temperature variation and demanding operational conditions.”

Because defence platforms often involve mission-critical assets, fire protection systems must be engineered to function consistently under extreme operational stress.

In that respect, its defence-focused aerosol generators incorporate three detection and activation mechanisms within a single unit, alongside self-activation capability at 300°C.

Preparing for future fire risks

Looking ahead, HAFEX sees one of the biggest challenges as managing fire risks associated with rapidly evolving technologies. “The biggest challenge will be protecting new technologies before risks become widespread,” Günaydın explains.

Electrification, automation, renewable energy infrastructure, data centres and high-density battery systems are all creating new fire scenarios that legacy suppression technologies may not fully address.

At the same time, they are creating new opportunities for manufacturers capable of delivering specialised and application-specific solutions. “We believe the future will require smarter, more compact, environmentally responsible and application-specific suppression systems,” says Günaydın.