Light Science Technologies announces £1.17m follow-on order for fire protection project in Manchester

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Light Science Technologies secures £1.17m follow-on fire protection order in Manchester

Light Science Technologies Holdings (LSTH) has secured a follow-on order worth £1.17 million from a Manchester-based construction services company.

The order is for the Injectaclad cavity remediation system in two additional residential tower blocks and is part of LSTH’s Passive Fire Protection (PFP) division.

The project is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2025.

This new contract follows the first phase of work with the same customer, where LSTH has already completed approximately £520,000 of an order valued at around £600,000.

Expected financial contribution from PFP division

LSTH’s PFP division has experienced increasing contract activity, and its management anticipates a strong financial contribution from this sector for the current financial year ending in November 2024.

Revenues from the PFP division during the first half of the year reached £300,000, and the full-year contribution is expected to total between £1.5 million and £1.7 million.

The company’s ongoing contracts are expected to provide clear visibility into the next financial year, with the PFP division poised for further growth.

CEO highlights growth in fire safety market

LSTH’s CEO, Simon Deacon, commented on the importance of the new contract: “We’re pleased to win this considerable contract which also increases our visibility and represents growing traction in the conversion of the wider Group quoted pipeline, which currently stands at £50m.”

Deacon added: “The division is well placed to capitalise on the UK’s fast-growing fire safety market, which has a potential total value of up to £50bn and is being driven by increasing regulation.”

Deacon further noted that the PFP division has received over £2.5 million in orders since its establishment in November 2023, and with a committed order book of £1.4 million, it is well-positioned for continued growth.

Increased regulation driving market demand

The UK’s fire safety market is experiencing rapid growth, largely driven by new regulations aimed at improving safety standards.

LSTH expects to see further growth opportunities as a result of these developments.

The company has observed an increasing number of enquiries, reflecting confidence in its ability to meet the demands of the growing market.

LSTH’s capacity to service both new and existing clients has been a critical factor in the PFP division’s success.

Deacon noted: “We are excited by the significant opportunities within our existing and potential customer base.

“With £1 billion of the Government’s £5.1 billion allocated spend on cladding remedial works now committed, we look forward to providing further updates.”

Light Science Technologies secures £1.17m follow-on fire protection order in Manchester: Summary

Light Science Technologies Holdings (LSTH) has announced a £1.17 million follow-on order from a Manchester-based customer for passive fire protection work on two additional residential tower blocks.

The order, part of the company’s Passive Fire Protection (PFP) division, is scheduled to be completed by mid-2025.

The PFP division has received over £2.5 million in orders since November 2023, and LSTH expects full-year revenues from this division to be between £1.5 million and £1.7 million.

CEO Simon Deacon noted that the company is well-placed to capitalise on the UK’s growing fire safety market, driven by increasing regulatory demand.

Kosovo’s Sharrcem plant upgrades fire safety with Kentec system

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

High-risk areas require advanced fire safety from Kentec

As reported by Kentec, Sharrcem, the sole cement plant in Kosovo, has upgraded its fire safety to better protect against the risk of fire in high-risk areas.

Sharrcem has an annual production capacity exceeding 600,000 tons, playing a vital role in Kosovo’s economy and local community.

Given the flammable materials and high operating temperatures at the site, robust fire safety measures were needed to prevent any potential fire hazards from causing major damage or disrupting operations.

Sharrcem required a solution that could not only meet international and local fire safety regulations but also integrate seamlessly with the existing security systems.

Ensuring minimal downtime was essential for maintaining production goals, and the fire safety system had to reflect this need for reliability.

Fire safety system implementation

The fire safety system installed across the plant includes 12 SIGMA ZXT units, manufactured by Kentec, a provider of fire safety control systems.

These units have been placed in key high-risk areas, such as electrical warehouses and storage zones.

The SIGMA ZXT units are designed to enable rapid response to fire outbreaks by delivering targeted extinguishing.

By allowing the system to extinguish fires only in specific zones, it helps reduce the risk of damage and keeps costs lower.

The system can be configured to release the extinguishant on an alarm triggered from one or more zones, offering flexibility in fire response and minimizing risk in areas with highly combustible materials.

Security features and integration

The SIGMA ZXT units come equipped with four configurable user passwords that provide restricted access, allowing only authorised personnel to access and modify the system.

This ensures that access to the fire safety system is controlled, and any changes made are tracked.

In addition, secure event logging records up to 1,000 events, which can be used for post-event investigations.

This feature offers valuable insights for safety assessments and enhances the overall security at the plant.

Integration with wider safety systems

One of the standout features of the new system is its seamless integration with the broader security infrastructure at Sharrcem.

According to Kentec, Professional Alarm, a security systems installer, played a key role in implementing the fire safety solution.

Eloi Del Valle, Business Development Manager at Kentec Electronics Ltd, commented on the installation: “The Sharrcem plant is a pillar of Kosovo, and we are honoured to have been the chosen provider of the extinguishant system there.

“Kentec prides itself on its leading, innovative fire safety solutions, and this is what stood out to the Sharrcem team and installer from the start.”

Kosovo cement plant upgrades fire safety: Summary

Sharrcem, the only cement plant in Kosovo, has implemented a new fire safety system across its high-risk areas, such as electrical warehouses and storage zones.

The system includes 12 SIGMA ZXT units, which are designed to provide targeted fire extinguishing, thereby reducing potential damage and cost.

This solution integrates seamlessly with the plant’s existing security and safety protocols and ensures compliance with local and international regulations.

Secure event logging and controlled access features enhance operational safety, with up to 1,000 events logged for post-event analysis.

Sherwin-Williams fire protection coatings used in Blackpool government building construction

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Construction of £100m Blackpool government office underway

As reported by Sherwin-Williams, the company’s fire protection coatings are being used in the construction of a new £100m government office building in Blackpool.

The seven-storey, 215,000-square-foot building, located on King Street, will house over 3,000 civil servants and is part of the £350m Talbot Gateway regeneration project.

Vinci Building is the main contractor responsible for this development, which aims to boost footfall and job opportunities in Blackpool town centre.

Sherwin-Williams has provided passive fire protection solutions for the building’s prefabricated steel frame.

These coatings are designed to expand when exposed to fire, creating an insulating barrier that delays the time it takes for steel to lose its load-bearing capacity.

The steel frame was fabricated by Leach Structural Steelwork, which applied Sherwin-Williams’ FIRETEX FX6002 coating to external steel, while JM Passive Fire Protection is applying FIRETEX FX1003 and FX6010 to the internal framework.

Fire protection solutions tailored for Blackpool’s environmental challenges

The coatings provided by Sherwin-Williams have been specifically chosen for Blackpool’s coastal environment, known for high humidity, salt exposure, and condensation.

FIRETEX FX6002, used for external steel, is formulated to withstand these harsh conditions and offers rapid drying times, making it ideal for off-site application.

It is also designed for environments in the C5 category, which encompasses the most severe atmospheric exposures.

The quick drying time helped meet project deadlines, as noted by Leach Structural Steelwork’s production manager, Jonathan Leach: “The fast curing of FIRETEX FX6002 enabled rapid throughput at our production facility.”

Internally, the steel is being coated with Sherwin-Williams’ FIRETEX FX1003 and FX6010, both of which offer the required 90-minute fire rating.

After curing, a topcoat of Acrolon 7300, another Sherwin-Williams product, will be applied to provide additional resistance to atmospheric conditions.

Sherwin-Williams’ technical expertise contributes to project success

Sherwin-Williams’ Fire Engineering and Estimating Team (FEET) played a crucial role in determining the fire protection requirements for the Blackpool project.

After analysing the design, FEET recommended solutions that met the building’s needs, ensuring compliance with the 90-minute fire resistance standard.

The team’s technical expertise was essential in securing the project and guiding the application of coatings across the structure.

Nathan Mangnall, Sherwin-Williams’ business development manager, noted the collaborative effort required for this project: “We’re delighted to have been able to supply our coatings for use in this state-of-the-art building.

“This project was won by demonstrating our technical expertise to Vinci Build, Leach Structural Steelwork, and JM Passive Fire Protection.”

Economic benefits anticipated from the new Blackpool office

Scheduled for completion in March 2025, the new government building is expected to have a positive economic impact on Blackpool.

With civil servants from the Department for Work and Pensions relocating to this new site, it is estimated that the development will generate an additional £8m annually for the local economy.

The project is part of a broader initiative to revitalise Blackpool’s town centre and improve employment opportunities in the region.

Sherwin-Williams coatings used in Blackpool government building construction: Summary

Sherwin-Williams is supplying fire protection coatings for a new government office building in Blackpool, scheduled for completion in March 2025.

The seven-storey, £100m building will house over 3,000 civil servants and is part of the Talbot Gateway regeneration project.

Sherwin-Williams’ coatings, including FIRETEX FX6002, FX1003, and FX6010, have been selected for their ability to withstand Blackpool’s challenging environmental conditions.

The coatings provide a 90-minute fire rating and are being applied to both external and internal steelwork.

The new office is expected to boost Blackpool’s economy by £8m annually.

Hochiki donates fire detection devices to FIA training facility in Northwich

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Hochiki equips FIA training facility with fire detection technology

Hochiki Europe has announced the donation of a range of fire detection devices to the new Fire Industry Association (FIA) training facility in Northwich.

As reported by Hochiki Europe, the donation aims to equip the facility’s practical bays, where students will gain hands-on experience with fire system installations.

The provided equipment includes addressable surface mounted MCPs, isolators, bases, programmable heat sensors, optical smoke sensors, multi-sensors, and Voice Alarm Devices (VADs).

These devices, commonly used by UK firefighting services, are designed to minimise false alarms and enhance fire safety.

“We are thrilled to support the FIA in its mission to train the next generation of fire safety engineers,” said Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director of Hochiki Europe.

“By providing our latest fire detection devices, we can help ensure that these future professionals have the skills and knowledge they need to safeguard lives and property.”

Training facility supports northern engineers

The new FIA training facility in Northwich aims to offer better access for businesses and student engineers in the North of England.

The facility will provide FIA’s industry-recognised courses, making it more convenient for professionals based in the region to gain essential skills in fire protection.

Hochiki Europe’s equipment donation will allow students to train with cutting-edge technology used in real-world settings, preparing them for future roles in fire safety engineering.

Hochiki’s legacy of fire safety innovation

Founded in 1918 in Japan, Hochiki has developed a reputation for its fire detection technologies.

With over a century of experience, the company continues to provide reliable fire safety products and solutions across various sectors.

The Fire Industry Association (FIA), established in the United Kingdom just two years after Hochiki, has been a leading voice in fire protection and safety training for over a century.

The FIA is committed to promoting best practices and supporting fire safety professionals through its training programs.

Collaboration to advance fire safety training

The partnership between Hochiki Europe and the FIA reflects a shared commitment to advancing fire safety standards and training.

By providing cutting-edge fire detection equipment, Hochiki aims to help the FIA equip its students with the skills necessary to protect people and property effectively.

This collaboration brings together Hochiki’s expertise in fire detection and the FIA’s extensive experience in fire safety education, supporting the development of the next generation of fire safety engineers.

Hochiki donates fire detection devices to FIA training facility in Northwich: Summary

Hochiki Europe has donated various fire detection devices to the Fire Industry Association’s (FIA) new training facility in Northwich, England.

The equipment, which includes multi-sensors, heat sensors, and Voice Alarm Devices (VADs), will allow students to gain hands-on experience in fire system installations.

This facility aims to provide better access to fire safety training for businesses and engineers in the North of England.

Hochiki, founded in Japan in 1918, and the FIA, established two years later, share a long-standing commitment to improving fire safety standards.

Their partnership will help train the next generation of fire safety professionals.

Pano AI launches weather map layers to improve bushfire management in Australia

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProductsProjects

Weather map layers launched in Australia at AFAC 24

Pano AI has introduced its new Weather Map Layers feature at the AFAC 24 Conference, Australia’s largest emergency management event.

The feature integrates forecasted weather data with real-time fire threat information, enabling users to monitor fire risks and changing weather conditions on a single platform, as reported by Pano AI.

The Weather Map Layers will assist in improving decision-making for fire responders across Australia, helping them to respond more effectively to fire threats.

Arvind Satyam, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Pano AI, emphasised the importance of integrating weather data into fire management systems: “By providing visibility into temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind gusts and wind direction, Pano AI’s Weather Map Layers offers greater situational awareness, significantly improves decision-making during critical moments and allows for more tactical and appropriately scaled responses to fire risks.”

Fire management enhanced through weather tracking

Pano AI’s new feature allows users to overlay critical weather information, such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction, directly onto an interactive map.

The platform uses AI and high-resolution cameras to help fire responders identify and respond to new ignitions before they become larger threats.

According to Andrew Prolov, Head of Australia GTM at Pano AI: “The first few minutes are vital in preventing a bushfire from escalating out of control.

“While we can’t prevent fires from starting, our technology now offers the added capability to overlay important weather data to better understand the conditions in the regions that we are monitoring.”

Hourly updates to improve situational awareness

Weather Map Layers will update hourly, ensuring responders have the most accurate and current information.

With a data resolution of 28km, the system provides a forecast for the current hour, giving fire management teams up-to-date insights into fire behaviour based on weather conditions.

This timely data aims to improve fire containment efforts and overall safety during fire events.

The integration of weather forecasting into fire response is expected to enhance strategic decision-making, enabling responders to predict fire behaviour more accurately and act with greater precision.

The weather tracking capability offers fire management teams a tool for monitoring and assessing the fire environment in real-time, potentially reducing the impact of bushfires in Australia.

Deployment across Australian states

Pano AI has rolled out its technology across five states in Australia, including New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, and Tasmania.

The deployment spans 28 stations, covering over 2 million hectares of land, including forestry, farmland, and renewable energy zones.

This expansion highlights the company’s commitment to providing effective early detection and response solutions for bushfire risk management.

Mr Prolov added: “We are committed to providing the most effective early detection technology to help identify bushfire risks and to prevent fires from escalating out of control.”

New feature enhances bushfire response across Australia: summary

Pano AI launched its Weather Map Layers feature at the AFAC 24 Conference in Sydney.

The system integrates real-time fire threat data with forecasted weather information, improving decision-making for fire responders across Australia.

Key features include hourly updates of critical weather data, including temperature, humidity, and wind patterns, which assist in predicting fire behaviour.

The system is already deployed across five states and covers over 2 million hectares of land.

Pano AI utilises high-resolution cameras and AI to help fire responders detect and respond to fires before they escalate.

The feature aims to improve the overall effectiveness of bushfire management by enhancing situational awareness and providing more strategic responses to fire threats.

Warringtonfire completes $30 million fire resistance testing lab at Birchwood Park

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringProjectsResearch

Warringtonire fire resistance testing lab set for January 2025 launch

Warringtonfire’s new fire resistance testing laboratory is set to open in January 2025 following the completion of construction at its 101,000 square foot facility at Birchwood Park, Warrington.

As reported by Warringtonfire, the project, which cost $30 million, was completed ahead of schedule, with the site handed over by Tilbury Douglas on 16 September 2024.

The laboratory will open its doors on 2 January 2025, offering advanced fire testing capabilities in a purpose-built facility.

In the final phase of preparation, Warringtonfire is focusing on obtaining UKAS validation and accreditation for its five furnaces and overall operations.

The accreditation process is expected to conclude by the end of November, ensuring the facility will be fully operational for fire testing when it opens.

Expansion creates new job opportunities and enhanced capabilities

As part of the new laboratory’s expansion, Warringtonfire has hired 50 new employees, including maintenance engineers and technical officers.

The maintenance engineers have formed a new team, comprising specialists from a range of disciplines.

This team will support smooth and reliable operations at the new facility.

The new laboratory will allow Warringtonfire to triple the fire resistance testing capacity of its existing Holmesfield Road site, meeting growing demand in the industry.

Warringtonfire’s fire resistance team will transition to the new Birchwood Park laboratory as they prepare for its launch.

Sustainable design and advanced technologies implemented

Sustainability has been a key focus for the new facility, which has incorporated energy-efficient systems and advanced smoke abatement technologies.

These measures contributed to the laboratory receiving a Bronze Award from the Considerate Constructors Scheme, scoring 45 out of 45.

Dafydd Llewelyn-Jones, Senior Project Manager for Warringtonfire, said: “Our new laboratory is poised to address this growing demand by tripling the capacity of our current Holmesfield Road site.

“Furthermore, we have future-proofed our operations with a range of sustainable solutions designed to minimise environmental impact while delivering safety critical services.”

The lab features smoke cleaning systems that ensure minimal environmental impact, and it is ready to transition to using clean hydrogen when local infrastructure permits.

Client confidentiality prioritised with state-of-the-art design

The Birchwood Park facility has been designed with client confidentiality in mind.

The laboratory includes custom-built module spray booths with temperature control, as well as test preparation areas that safeguard intellectual property.

Viewing areas have been created to ensure client privacy during testing.

In anticipation of its opening, Warringtonfire is trialling additional confidentiality measures to further enhance protection.

Dafydd Llewelyn-Jones added: “We want both our clients and colleagues to feel truly at home in our facility.

“It was important for us that the laboratory serves not only as a testing site but also a versatile environment where meetings can be conducted, and where our team can excel.”

Warringtonfire completes $30 million fire resistance testing lab at Birchwood Park: Summary

Warringtonfire has completed the construction of its new fire resistance testing laboratory at Birchwood Park, Warrington.

The $30 million, 101,000 square foot facility will open in January 2025, following UKAS accreditation.

The new laboratory will triple the company’s testing capacity and has already created 50 new jobs.

Designed with sustainability and client confidentiality in mind, the lab features advanced smoke abatement systems and temperature-controlled testing environments.

The site will also support future hydrogen energy use when the infrastructure becomes available.

Warringtonfire aims to address increasing demand for fire resistance testing while minimising environmental impact through these innovations.

Hochiki Ekho fire detection system enhances safety at Qatar’s Outpost Al Barari

by Featured NewsProjects

Fire safety challenges at Outpost Al Barari

Outpost Al Barari, a luxury desert resort in Qatar, faced unique fire safety challenges due to its ever-changing layout and harsh desert conditions.

Traditional wired fire alarm systems were unsuitable for the resort’s environment, where shifting sand dunes and temporary structures required a more adaptable solution.

To address these challenges, Fire Cloud Qatar was tasked with implementing a fire detection system that could be rapidly deployed without extensive cabling.

As reported by Hochiki, they chose the Hochiki Ekho hybrid wireless system due to its flexibility and reliability in demanding environments.

The Hochiki Ekho wireless fire alarm solution

The Ekho system was selected for its ability to create a self-configuring wireless mesh network, eliminating the need for physical cabling.

This feature made it an ideal solution for Outpost Al Barari, allowing for easy reconfiguration as the resort’s layout evolved.

Fire Cloud Qatar swiftly installed the wireless devices, minimising disruption to hotel operations.

The system’s flexibility also allowed for easy expansion to ensure comprehensive fire detection coverage across the entire site, regardless of layout changes.

Step-by-step implementation of Ekho system

The installation process began with a site survey conducted by Fire Cloud Qatar using Ekho’s Survey Kit to determine optimal device placement.

This was followed by the installation of the wireless devices, which was significantly simplified by the absence of cabling.

After installation, the system was carefully configured and tested to ensure optimal performance.

Comprehensive training on system operation, emergency procedures, and maintenance was then provided to Outpost personnel, ensuring smooth operation and ongoing support.

Enhanced safety for guests and staff

With the Hochiki Ekho wireless system in place, guests and staff at Outpost Al Barari can feel confident in the resort’s fire safety measures.

The system’s advanced detection and alarm capabilities provide reliable protection, regardless of how the resort’s layout changes over time.

Fire Cloud Qatar’s successful implementation of the Ekho system highlights the value of wireless fire detection solutions in challenging environments like Outpost Al Barari.

The project has improved fire safety while maintaining the resort’s commitment to sustainability and adaptability.

Hochiki Ekho fire detection system enhances safety at Qatar’s Outpost Al Barari: Summary

Fire Cloud Qatar successfully installed the Hochiki Ekho hybrid wireless fire alarm system at the Outpost Al Barari resort in Qatar.

The resort’s shifting desert environment and temporary structures made traditional wired fire alarms impractical, so Fire Cloud Qatar implemented a flexible, wireless solution.

The Ekho system’s self-configuring mesh network allowed for seamless communication between devices, enabling rapid deployment and easy reconfiguration as the layout of the resort evolved.

Installation was completed in four steps, including a site survey, device installation, system testing, and staff training.

The system ensures reliable fire detection and alarm coverage, providing continuous safety for both guests and staff.

Be Ready This National Preparedness Month with Resources from the NVFC

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsProjectsPublic EventsTraining

On September 11, 2001, hundreds of first responders made the ultimate sacrifice while trying to save others. Twenty-three years after the tragic events of that day, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) remembers and honors their bravery and selflessness.

The NVFC is here to support you. September is National Preparedness Month, and the NVFC has the following resources to help you and your department be safe, healthy, and ready for the next emergency.

NVFC membership also comes with a myriad of benefits, including the NVFC First Responder Helpline, AD&D policy, free training, access to the Volunteer Voices member community, and more

For more information, go to www.nvfc.org

Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program Supports Skilled Trade Education and Training in 30 North American Communities

by PeopleProjectsResearchTraining

Program supported 655 scholarships during the 2023-2024 school year and helped students kickstart thousands of careers

Johnson Controls the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, today announced renewed grants to 30 community colleges in North America as part of the companies Community College Partnership Program. Launched in 2021 to help students from historically underrepresented groups prepare for and embark on career paths in sustainable building practices, the program will, for the fourth consecutive year, provide each college a grant to support programming in HVAC, fire, security or digital fields valued up to $100,000.  

“For four years, the Community College Partnership Program has helped forward-thinking community colleges equip thousands of future leaders for successful careers in this growing industry,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “Our collaboration with these innovative institutions creates real job opportunities for students while making real progress in closing the skilled trades gap across North America.”   

Impact of the Community College Partnership Program 

During the 2023-2024 school year, the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program created significant impacts in North American communities:  

  • 3,868 students enrolled in educational programs  
  • 655 scholarships awarded to students  
  • 428 volunteer hours tracked by Johnson Controls team members 

Recipient community colleges are located in areas where the company operates, encouraging Johnson Controls employees to volunteer and share real-world experiences with students. Students have shared their appreciation for the industry exposure and mentorship, which have contributed to their academic success and career readiness. Additionally, participants have reported that the program alleviated financial stress and equipped them with essential workplace skills through coaching sessions, ultimately boosting their confidence in their job search.  

“I have gone from someone who had absolutely zero idea what an energy management controls technician does, to someone who has had the opportunity to get my foot into the industry and continue developing within my career,” said one student in the program. “The Johnson Controls scholarship grant I received when I came into the program helped me financially and served as motivation because it showed that there is a company out there that truly cares for the industry and provides that additional help to motivate individuals to pursue their careers.” 

Through the Community College Partnership Program, Johnson Controls is on track to donate up to $15 million by the end of 2026 to expand access to educational programs in the HVAC, fire, security and digital disciplines. 

To learn more about the program, including for a complete list of grant recipients, visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/corporate-sustainability/community/philanthropy/community-college-partnership 

Cheshire West and Chester Council adopts Aico Ei3030 alarms for enhanced resident safety

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Cheshire West and Chester Council integrates new safety technology in housing stock

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) has adopted Aico’s Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Alarm as part of its housing stock upgrade and replacement programs.

As reported by Aico, the council is using these combined Optical, Heat, and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms to enhance resident safety.

The Ei3030, launched in summer 2023, is becoming widely adopted in social housing due to its reliability and ease of use.

This advanced alarm integrates three sensors in one unit, providing accurate detection of both fire and CO, reducing the need for multiple devices.

The alarm also features Intelligent Dust Compensation and software that enables real-time data extraction and monitoring, facilitating proactive safety measures.

Future enhancements through Aico’s HomeLINK technology

CWAC’s adoption of the Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Alarm also opens the door for future integration with Aico’s HomeLINK Technology.

Should the council decide to make further improvements to its housing portfolio, this technology would allow for monitoring of issues such as damp, mould, and indoor air quality, as well as ensuring compliance.

The HomeLINK solution is powered by the Ei1000G Gateway, which collects data through Aico’s Environmental Sensors.

These sensors provide landlords with actionable insights, accessible through the HomeLINK Portal, to improve tenant safety and housing conditions.

Installation and training by Liberty Group

The installation of these multi-sensor alarms in Ellesmere Port properties was carried out by the Liberty Group.

Their team participated in Aico’s Expert Installer Training earlier this year, equipping them with the necessary knowledge to efficiently install domestic fire and CO alarm systems.

James Fishwick, Electrical Contracts Manager for Liberty Group, expressed satisfaction with the new alarms: “This is such a good alarm and ticks so many boxes in one go.

“We were keen to start fitting them as soon as our client gave us the new specification.

“We’re now starting to see them on others around the country as well. It’s a no brainer.”

Support and reliability of Aico’s products

Aico’s products, including the Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Alarm, are manufactured in Shannon, Ireland.

Each unit undergoes rigorous testing to ensure reliability and accuracy.

Aico’s network of 32 Relationship Managers across the UK is available to provide guidance and support for implementing Aico’s home life safety systems.

Carl Traynor, Aico Relationship Manager for Merseyside, highlighted the benefits of the combined unit: “As a former electrician and compliance manager myself, I was used to fitting multiple alarms to cover both smoke and CO.

“I was always particularly cautious around the migration factor, where CO can be produced in one room or even an adjacent property and have devastating consequences on another.

“This combined unit is ideal to mitigate these risks.”

Cheshire West and Chester Council adopts Aico Ei3030 alarms for enhanced resident safety: Summary

Cheshire West and Chester Council has integrated Aico’s Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Alarms into its housing stock as part of its safety upgrade programs.

These alarms, launched in summer 2023, are gaining popularity in social housing for their reliability and ease of use.

The council’s adoption of this technology allows for potential future integration with Aico’s HomeLINK system, which provides comprehensive monitoring and safety insights.

The installation was carried out by Liberty Group, whose team underwent specific training for this purpose.

Aico continues to provide reliable and well-supported safety solutions, with all products manufactured and rigorously tested in Shannon, Ireland.