UL Solutions has announced the start of construction on its Global Fire Science Center of Excellence at its headquarters in Northbrook, Illinois.
Wildfire smoke in Europe linked to higher short-term mortality, study finds
Research highlights mortality risks from wildfire smoke
The Lancet – Planetary Health has published a study showing that wildfire smoke increases short-term mortality across Europe, with respiratory deaths most affected.
The study analysed daily mortality records from 654 regions across 32 countries between 2004 and 2022, covering a population of 541 million people.
Researchers found that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke carried greater health risks than PM2.5 from other sources.
Relative risks for cardiovascular and respiratory deaths were higher when linked specifically to wildfire smoke, with respiratory mortality showing the strongest association.
The authors concluded that previous studies underestimated the health burden of wildfire smoke when treating it as equivalent to other types of particulate pollution.
Methodology and dataset explained
The study used the EARLY-ADAPT database to obtain mortality records alongside PM2.5 exposure estimates from the SILAM atmospheric model.
The dataset included more than 95 million daily all-cause deaths, nearly 20 million cardiovascular deaths, and almost 4 million respiratory deaths recorded during the study period.
Associations were calculated using quasi-Poisson regression, assessing the impact of incremental increases in wildfire-related PM2.5.
The researchers noted that fire-related PM2.5 exposure led to stronger mortality associations compared with non-fire sources of PM2.5.
The analysis indicated that using general PM2.5 measures underestimated deaths from wildfire smoke by as much as 93 per cent.
Findings on mortality associations
The study reported that pooled results showed a relative risk of 1.007 for all-cause mortality, 1.009 for cardiovascular mortality, and 1.013 for respiratory mortality per 1 μg/m³ increase in wildfire PM2.5.
The team found that respiratory mortality was particularly sensitive to wildfire-related particles compared with other causes.
Comparisons with previous studies showed similar patterns in France, Italy and Romania, where risk estimates aligned with global datasets.
The researchers suggested that higher toxicity, oxidative potential, and exposure intensity during wildfire events could explain the stronger associations.
Wildfire smoke exposure was described as distinct from background pollution, with periods of very high exposure followed by little to none, unlike continuous urban air pollution.
Climate change and wildfire exposure
The analysis explained that climate change is a key driver of wildfire frequency and intensity across Europe.
Estimates suggest burned areas in Europe could rise by 200 per cent this century if no adaptation measures are introduced.
Even moderate climate change scenarios predict major increases in catastrophic fire risk in southern Europe, with central and northern Europe also becoming more vulnerable during droughts.
Human activity was identified as the cause of 96 per cent of wildfire ignitions in Europe, but weather, vegetation and topography determined fire spread.
The researchers linked climate change, wildfire spread, and smoke exposure in a feedback loop, with each element amplifying the others.
Regional variations in effects
The study indicated that health impacts varied across European regions.
For Portugal and Spain, associations between wildfire smoke and mortality were weaker or imprecise, which researchers said might reflect fire management strategies or adaptation efforts.
Rural populations were reported to be more heavily exposed than urban populations because of their proximity to wildfire sources.
The analysis found that mortality risks were consistent even when accounting for additional pollutants such as ozone.
However, it noted that disentangling the independent effects of wildfire smoke and ozone remains an area requiring further research.
Strengths and limitations of the study
The researchers highlighted that the multicountry dataset provided comprehensive coverage across urban and rural populations.
The SILAM model allowed the team to distinguish wildfire-related PM2.5 from other sources, supporting direct comparison between exposure types.
Limitations included reduced statistical power in estimating risks by age or sex, as fire-related PM2.5 exposure was less variable than general pollution.
Mortality data availability differed by country, which limited subnational analysis in certain areas.
The study added that exposure misclassification could not be fully ruled out and may have led to underestimates of health effects.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The findings demonstrate the direct public health burden linked to wildfire smoke exposure across Europe.
Fire and safety professionals may need to factor air quality impacts into wildfire risk management and community protection strategies.
Emergency planning, firefighter safety, and post-fire recovery measures can benefit from understanding the mortality risks linked to smoke exposure.
The research also reinforces the importance of considering climate change as a driver of future wildfire hazards in Europe.
Wildfire smoke in Europe linked to higher short-term mortality, study finds: Summary
The Lancet – Planetary Health reported that wildfire smoke is linked to increased short-term mortality in Europe.
The study used data from 654 regions in 32 countries, covering 541 million people.
Researchers found that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke had higher relative risks for mortality than PM2.5 from other sources.
Respiratory deaths showed the strongest association with wildfire smoke exposure.
All-cause mortality risk increased by 0.7 per cent per 1 μg/m³ increase in fire-related PM2.5.
Cardiovascular mortality risk increased by 0.9 per cent under the same conditions.
Respiratory mortality risk increased by 1.3 per cent for the same increment.
Using total PM2.5 underestimated wildfire-related deaths by 93 per cent.
The analysis covered daily mortality records from 2004 to 2022.
The SILAM atmospheric model was used to estimate PM2.5 sources and levels.
Rural populations were more heavily exposed than urban populations.
Regional variations were observed, with weaker associations in Portugal and Spain.
The researchers linked climate change to increased wildfire risk in Europe.
They said wildfires in Europe are 96 per cent human-caused in origin.
They noted climate change amplifies wildfire size, duration and spread.
The dataset included more than 95 million daily all-cause deaths.
It also recorded nearly 20 million cardiovascular and 4 million respiratory deaths.
The research indicated stronger effects for respiratory outcomes compared with other mortality causes.
The authors said estimates of wildfire smoke health burdens should be based on fire-specific data.
The new EV rescue sheet website every firefighter needs to know about
Access to rescue sheets for US responders
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a new website giving responders direct access to emergency response guides and rescue sheets for electric vehicles.
The IAFF explained that this is intended to support fire fighters and emergency responders in safely addressing incidents involving battery-electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.
According to the association, the new portal includes files transferred from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which will discontinue its previous online platform.
The IAFF stated that the database now serves as the main resource for model-specific emergency documents covering a wide range of vehicle manufacturers and models.
It added that members can now find both current and historical documentation to help with incident response and training.
Content of emergency response guides
The IAFF reported that emergency response guides contain detailed information on hazards related to EVs, including fire, fluid leaks, submersion and towing.
It explained that the documents provide responders with procedures for immobilising vehicles, disabling high-voltage systems and safely handling batteries.
The IAFF said that each guide is vehicle-specific and covers structural reinforcements, recommended cut zones and restraint systems.
It added that guides also include details on stabilisation points, disabling methods and energy sources such as lithium-ion batteries.
According to the association, these documents are designed to reduce risks of shock, fire or injury when working at crash scenes or during recovery operations.
Role of rescue sheets in incidents
The IAFF outlined that rescue sheets are condensed versions of the emergency response guides.
It said these sheets are intended to be used directly at the scene of a collision or emergency.
The association explained that the sheets provide rapid access to information about vehicle construction, cut points and high-voltage component locations.
It added that responders can quickly reference diagrams that highlight critical systems such as airbags, batteries and fuel tanks.
According to the IAFF, this information helps responders make immediate decisions about extrication and hazard management.
Example: Alfa Romeo Tonale rescue sheet
One example of the materials available on the NHTSA portal is the Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 rescue sheet.
The document states that the vehicle is powered by lithium-ion batteries and requires responders to follow strict high-voltage disablement procedures.
It warns that a lack of engine noise does not mean the vehicle is off, as it may still be capable of movement.
Responders are instructed to cut specific low-voltage cables to disable high-voltage power and to avoid orange connectors.
The sheet also identifies stabilisation points, hazards such as high-strength steel zones, and procedures for towing and storage.
Warnings within the sheet advise that gases released from damaged lithium-ion batteries include hydrogen and hydrogen fluoride, both presenting risks to health and safety.
Transfer from NFPA to NHTSA
The IAFF stated that the NFPA has now transferred its database of EV emergency files to NHTSA.
It reported that NHTSA’s portal includes over 480 results covering multiple manufacturers and EV types.
The association said that this transfer means NHTSA will now serve as the single national source for these documents.
According to the IAFF, this centralisation is intended to simplify access for responders and standardise the location of critical information.
The IAFF added that fire fighters and emergency responders should now refer exclusively to the NHTSA platform when seeking EV response information.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This development is directly relevant to fire and safety professionals because it centralises critical EV incident documentation in one federal resource.
It allows responders to quickly access both emergency response guides and rescue sheets that provide essential information for safe extrication and hazard control.
The move ensures consistent access to manufacturer-submitted data covering battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.
For training, planning and live operations, fire and rescue teams in the United States can now rely on a single portal for accurate and vehicle-specific EV response instructions.
NHTSA launches EV rescue sheet and guide website: Summary
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a new website.
The website provides emergency responders with access to electric vehicle emergency response guides and rescue sheets.
The database includes files transferred from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
The NFPA has discontinued its previous portal for these documents.
The NHTSA platform now serves as the central national resource.
Emergency response guides provide detailed instructions on hazards, immobilisation and high-voltage disablement.
Rescue sheets give condensed information for use at crash scenes.
One example is the Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 rescue sheet.
The sheet identifies lithium-ion battery hazards and step-by-step disablement methods.
It also warns about risks from gases released during battery damage.
The database contains over 480 results covering many vehicle makes and models.
Fire fighters and responders can now access both historical and current documentation.
The platform supports safer response to incidents involving battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.
This centralisation gives US responders a single location for vehicle-specific emergency information.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launches public consultation on 23 change options
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has opened a public consultation on 23 options that could change how its services are delivered across the country.
NFPA survey highlights AI and training in skilled trades
The NFPA 2025 survey highlights AI adoption, digital tools, training demand, certification gaps, and workforce pressures in the skilled trades sector.
Global fire statistics 2023 reveal how incidents and fatalities compare across 46 countries
Report provides global fire data
The International Association of Fire and Rescue Services (CTIF) has published its latest global fire statistics in Report № 30.
According to CTIF, the study covers data from 2023 across 46 countries and 25 cities, representing about 1.5 billion people.
The association said the report examines fire service calls, the number of fires, fire victims, and firefighter fatalities between 2019 and 2023.
It added that the data set includes statistics on fire injuries collected from 54 countries and information on fire services from 66 countries.
The report is published in English, Spanish and German.
Scope of the report
CTIF stated that the report includes both national and city-level statistics, combining data from 46 countries and 25 cities for the most recent year.
It explained that the findings build on previous studies by comparing trends between 2019 and 2023, offering continuity in long-term data analysis.
The organisation added that general global fire data from 1993 to 2023 is also presented in the report, with earlier years updated as new sources contribute additional information.
It commented that the dataset is expected to expand further as more countries submit official national statistics in the coming months.
Country and city coverage
The report presents national fire statistics for 2023 in 46 countries and city-level figures from 25 major urban areas worldwide.
CTIF noted that additional tables cover service calls, total fires, casualties and firefighter deaths across 55 to 76 countries, depending on the category.
The organisation said information on the type of fire injuries is based on data collected from 54 countries, and that coverage of fire service operations extends to 66 countries.
City data includes a breakdown of calls, fires and victims from 2019 to 2023 across 56 cities.
The study also features information about fire services in 77 cities.
Tables and content
The report contains a series of tables designed to provide structured access to the data.
CTIF explained that tables 1.2 to 1.6 contain fire statistics for 2023, while tables 1.7 to 1.12 record calls, fires, victims and firefighter deaths from 2019 to 2023.
It said table 1.13 covers fire services in 65 countries from 2010 to 2023, while table 1.14 outlines the gender balance of fire service staff and table 1.15 reports the number of junior firefighters.
The association noted that table 1.16 presents the distribution of fires by cause.
Tables 2.1 to 2.5 cover fire statistics for 25 cities in 2023, and tables 2.6 to 2.9 show longer-term urban trends and service data.
Special topics in the 2023 edition
CTIF confirmed that Report № 30 includes dedicated chapters addressing high-rise fire incidents and specific observations on fire statistics in India.
The organisation added that the report also highlights differences in the recording of fire injuries across countries, aiming to improve comparability over time.
It said the document contributes to developing a more consistent international dataset for fire analysis.
The inclusion of high-rise fire analysis marks a continuation of CTIF’s approach of adding topical focus areas alongside core statistical material.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The CTIF report offers internationally comparable statistics that can be used by fire authorities and safety organisations to review long-term patterns in incidents, casualties and operational demands.
It provides national and city-level data that may support decision-making on resource allocation, training priorities and prevention strategies.
The report also includes demographic and staffing information that may help organisations assess workforce composition and planning.
The continued expansion of contributing countries increases the scope for comparative analysis across regions.
CTIF fire statistics report 2023 released: Summary
CTIF has published Report № 30 on global fire statistics.
The report provides data for 2023 from 46 countries and 25 cities.
It covers fire service calls, total fires, casualties and firefighter fatalities from 2019 to 2023.
Fire injuries were recorded in 54 countries.
Fire service data was collected from 66 countries.
The study includes general fire statistics from 1993 to 2023.
Additional tables analyse service calls, deaths, staffing and gender ratios.
City-level data includes 25 cities in 2023 and longer-term records for 56 cities.
Fire service information from 77 cities is also presented.
The report contains a dedicated chapter on high-rise fires.
It also comments on fire statistics in India.
The report is published in English, Spanish and German.
CTIF said data for 2023 may be updated as more countries contribute official figures.
Blackline Safety expands quality assurance program in Canada
Blackline Safety expands in-house quality testing capacity
According to Blackline Safety, its Canadian manufacturing facility has expanded in-house quality assurance operations to increase product testing, add new equipment and grow the specialist team.
The firm said the expansion includes adding more staff, upgrading inspection equipment and increasing testing across its entire product range.
It stated that the upgrades build on a previous CDN $2 million investment in Surface Mount Technology and inspection tools to improve oversight during production.
The manufacturer added that devices are tested for resistance to water immersion, dust penetration and extreme temperatures, alongside reliability checks on physical components such as buttons and connectors.
It confirmed that all testing is carried out at the company’s Canadian site.
Testing process conducted in simulated environments
Blackline Safety said its quality assurance testing is completed in simulated conditions that replicate real-world operational environments.
The company noted that this proximity to the production floor allows immediate response to any identified issues.
It explained that such responsiveness is harder to achieve when manufacturing is outsourced.
Blair Svoboda, Director, Quality Assurance at Blackline Safety, said: “All of our quality assurance testing is done in true-to-life simulated environments just steps from the manufacturing floor to enable us to react in real time as needed – a process that just can’t be achieved when manufacturing is done elsewhere.”
Staffing growth in quality assurance operations
Blackline Safety reported that its quality assurance team now includes 35 specialists worldwide.
It stated that this represents an increase of more than 250% compared to previous staffing levels.
The company said the team carries out a 68-point quality test on every safety device before it ships.
It explained that these checks include testing radios, sensors and alarms, and verifying connectivity across both cellular and satellite networks.
Focus on product reliability before deployment
Svoboda said: “When most people think of safety technology, they think about the moment it matters – a gas leak detected, an SOS alert triggered, or a worker protected – but our team is focused on everything that leads up to that moment because protection starts on the bench, in the lab, and on the line.”
He added: “Every test and check in our QA process comes down to one simple question: will this device keep someone safe when it counts?”
Svoboda said: “At Blackline, quality assurance isn’t about ticking boxes – it’s about protecting professionals like the lone worker in a remote oilfield, the firefighter charging into danger, or the technician maintaining a power grid in a storm.”
Product features and safety functions
According to Blackline Safety, its connected safety wearables and area gas monitors are currently used by more than 2,200 organisations.
It stated that these devices protect over 165,000 workers worldwide.
The manufacturer explained that the equipment provides live monitoring, automatic incident alerts and location-based insights.
It said the technology is designed to help teams respond more quickly, prevent incidents and make operational decisions using real-time safety data.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This development is relevant to fire and safety professionals because it highlights advancements in product quality testing for safety-critical equipment.
The expansion in staffing and testing capacity may improve the reliability of devices used in hazardous environments.
For professionals relying on connected safety systems, enhanced quality assurance can reduce the likelihood of device failure during an emergency.
It also demonstrates an example of in-house testing processes designed to maintain control over product quality.
Blackline Safety expands quality assurance program in Canada: Summary
Blackline Safety has expanded its quality assurance program at its Canadian manufacturing facility.
The company has increased its quality assurance team and upgraded its inspection equipment.
Testing capacity for all products has been expanded.
The expansion builds on a CDN $2 million investment in production technology.
Devices are tested for durability under environmental and operational stress.
Testing is conducted in simulated real-world environments.
The quality assurance team has grown by more than 250%.
Each device undergoes a 68-point inspection before shipment.
Products are used by more than 2,200 organisations worldwide.
Over 165,000 workers are protected by the devices.
The technology provides live monitoring and automatic incident alerts.
It also offers location-based insights for operational decision-making.
FIA announces first new council in over a decade
FIA announces creation of technology council
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced plans to create a new Technology Council for the UK fire safety sector.
According to the FIA, the council will focus on evaluating emerging technologies, improving system integration, and promoting secure data use across the industry.
The organisation said this is the first time in more than ten years that it has formed a new council.
It explained that the Technology Council will include up to 15 members, with nominations opening to FIA members in September ahead of its Annual General Meeting.
The FIA confirmed that the council’s first meeting will involve selecting a Chair from the elected members.
Purpose and scope of the technology council
The FIA said the new council will assess which advancements will improve existing systems, simplify processes, and ensure reliability in fire safety technology.
It noted that while existing standards and regulations must be met, these should not prevent adoption of better methods.
The organisation added that current FIA technology working groups, such as those on Internet of Things (IoT) and cyber security, have shown there is strong member interest in technical development.
The FIA explained that the Technology Council will provide a formal structure for these discussions and ensure coordination between stakeholders.
Objectives for technology adoption
According to the FIA, the council will encourage access to real-time site data for organisations of all sizes.
It will aim to improve system interoperability, enable data-led responses, and support immediate communication between stakeholders.
The organisation said the group will also work to promote use of virtual collaboration tools, create learning platforms for sharing best practice, and strengthen relationships between clients and providers.
Planned initiatives
The FIA reported that the council will work with standards bodies to promote open data exchange protocols and system interoperability.
It stated that the group will assess new technologies, recommend adoption strategies, and develop training for FIA members on emerging tools.
The association explained that it intends to launch pilot projects to test new solutions, create guidance on cyber security, and engage with regulators on technology-related issues.
Expected benefits for members
The FIA said that members could expect better risk reduction through faster action, streamlined processes, and reduced costs.
It stated that the council aims to encourage technical innovation, improve communication between stakeholders, and position FIA members as early adopters of proven technologies.
The organisation confirmed that it sees the council as a way to strengthen collaboration in the fire safety industry.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The creation of the FIA Technology Council is intended to give fire safety professionals a structured platform for influencing the development and adoption of new technologies.
The council’s work on standards, interoperability, and cyber security could directly affect how systems are designed, integrated, and maintained in the UK.
Participation will allow practitioners to contribute to pilot projects, gain early insight into emerging tools, and help shape industry guidance.
This initiative also provides an avenue for aligning technological development with operational needs, ensuring new solutions deliver practical benefits.
FIA forms technology council for UK fire safety industry: Summary
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced plans to create a new Technology Council for the UK fire safety sector.
The organisation said the council will focus on evaluating new technologies, improving integration, and promoting secure data use.
It stated that this is the first time in over ten years that the FIA has formed a new council.
The council will have up to 15 members, with nominations opening in September ahead of the FIA Annual General Meeting.
The first meeting will involve electing a Chair from the elected members.
The FIA explained that the group will aim to improve real-time data access, system interoperability, and communication.
It will also develop learning resources, virtual collaboration tools, and stronger client-provider relationships.
The organisation said the council will work on open standards, technology assessments, training, pilot projects, and cyber security guidance.
Expected benefits for members include faster risk reduction, lower costs, and stronger collaboration.
The FIA stated that it hopes the council will encourage innovation and position members as early adopters of effective technologies.
Inside Warringtonfire’s $5.4 million plan to speed up UK fire testing approvals
Warringtonfire expands Birchwood Park laboratory with new furnaces
Warringtonfire has reported that it is investing $5.4 million in its Birchwood Park facility in the United Kingdom to increase fire testing capacity.
The company said the funding will be used to install two new furnaces, bringing the total number at the site to seven.
According to Warringtonfire, the expansion aims to reduce delays in bringing safety-critical products to market.
The firm stated that the increased capacity will also assist manufacturers moving from BS 476 standards to EN 13501 standards.
This latest investment follows a $30 million outlay earlier in 2025 to construct what the company described as one of Europe’s largest fire resistance testing laboratories.
Increased capacity and compliance support
Warringtonfire said the additional furnaces will allow it to process more testing requests simultaneously.
The company noted that faster testing can help manufacturers meet regulatory deadlines.
It added that the capacity increase is intended to address demand from clients navigating changes in fire safety standards.
The firm explained that its facilities will be able to conduct testing programmes that previously required UK clients to send products abroad.
It stated that this will save manufacturers time and logistical costs.
Recruitment to support expansion
According to Warringtonfire, the expansion will be supported by the recruitment of around 25 additional staff before the end of 2025.
The company said the new roles will include Technical Officers, Technical Assistants, CAD specialists and business support positions.
It stated that each new recruit will undergo a 12-month training period.
Warringtonfire said the training reflects the complexity of the testing process and the importance of maintaining technical expertise.
The company added that the site currently employs around 200 fire safety specialists.
Industry benefits and reduced bottlenecks
Natasha Bambridge, Divisional Director at Element, said: “We’re proud to be investing in the future of fire resistance testing here at Warringtonfire. The new furnaces will enhance our ability to deliver fast and accurate test results that help keep people and buildings safe.
“With greater capacity, we can help customers bring essential products to market faster, allowing the industry to comply with ever-changing regulations at the necessary speed.”
Bambridge added: “This investment in new equipment represents our commitment to reducing bottlenecks across the industry and supporting manufacturers as regulations evolve.
“By expanding our capabilities, we’re helping clients achieve compliance faster and more efficiently.”
Installation and testing timeline
Warringtonfire has stated that installation of the new furnaces is scheduled to begin in Q3 2025.
The company said commercial testing with the new equipment is expected to start in Q4 2026.
It added that the phased approach allows time for recruitment, installation and calibration.
The firm explained that the scope of testing will be extended to cover a wider range of materials and products.
It stated that this aligns with industry needs and regulatory requirements.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This development is relevant to fire and safety professionals because it increases domestic UK fire testing capacity.
The additional furnaces could reduce waiting times for fire resistance testing.
It also supports manufacturers adapting to changes in UK and European fire safety standards.
The expansion may influence compliance planning and procurement strategies for construction projects.
Warringtonfire invests $5.4 million in UK fire testing capacity: Summary
Warringtonfire is investing $5.4 million in its Birchwood Park facility in the United Kingdom.
The investment will fund two new furnaces for fire testing.
This will bring the site’s total to seven furnaces.
The expansion follows a $30 million investment earlier in 2025.
The additional capacity will support the transition from BS 476 to EN 13501 standards.
The project includes the recruitment of around 25 staff before the end of 2025.
New roles include Technical Officers, Technical Assistants, CAD specialists and business support positions.
Each new staff member will complete 12 months of training.
Installation of the furnaces will begin in Q3 2025.
Commercial testing is scheduled to start in Q4 2026.
The expanded scope of testing will reduce the need for UK clients to send products abroad.
The company said the investment will help reduce industry bottlenecks.
FIA Market Conditions Survey 2025 opens to UK fire sector
Annual questionnaire invites feedback from UK fire companies
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has opened its 2025 Market Conditions Survey, inviting input from organisations across the UK fire safety sector.
According to the FIA, the annual questionnaire provides insight into employment trends, skills gaps, training availability, supplier pricing and payment practices across the industry.
The survey is designed to take five minutes to complete and is open to all UK-based businesses involved in fire safety.
The FIA stated that all responses are anonymous, with the data used to compile a publicly available benchmarking report.
The organisation added that the final report offers sector-wide visibility into economic and operational trends affecting fire safety businesses across the country.
Feedback will contribute to open-access industry report
The FIA explained that the results of the 2025 Market Conditions Survey will be collated into a free report accessible to the wider sector.
The association said the report aims to assist decision-makers by offering benchmark data that reflects real-time experiences within the industry.
It added that responses help identify common challenges, highlight strengths, and inform strategic planning at both company and industry levels.
The report will be made publicly available once responses are analysed and collated.
The FIA confirmed that respondents’ identities will not be collected, ensuring anonymous participation.
Survey themes include workforce, pricing and payments
According to the FIA, the 2025 edition of the survey focuses on several key themes relevant to day-to-day operations and planning within the sector.
These include recruitment and workforce availability, with the survey aiming to identify areas experiencing skills shortages or staffing changes.
The organisation stated that pricing and supplier costs are also covered, as well as patterns in payment practices among clients and contractors.
The survey further explores access to training and continuing professional development, as well as broader market confidence.
The aim, according to the FIA, is to present a cross-section of the current business environment faced by UK fire companies.
Survey supports collective planning and sector readiness
The FIA stated that the purpose of the annual survey is to provide businesses with the opportunity to share experiences that may reflect wider issues.
By participating, companies can contribute to a broader understanding of sector conditions and support collective preparation for changing requirements or pressures.
The organisation noted that the benchmarking data is intended to guide planning around investment, hiring, and service provision.
It added that the insights gathered may also help to inform policy recommendations or future training initiatives.
The final report will be made available to all respondents and to the general public via the FIA website.
Participation offers entry into £100 prize draw
As an incentive for completing the survey, the FIA confirmed that respondents will be entered into a draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.
The association stated that the prize draw is open to all participants who complete the survey in full.
A link to the questionnaire is available on the FIA website and through its official communications channels.
The FIA encouraged businesses of all sizes and types to contribute, regardless of their specific area of expertise or operation.
The survey will remain open for a limited period, with the publication date of the results to be announced at a later time.
FIA Market Conditions Survey 2025 opens to UK fire sector: Summary
The FIA has launched its 2025 Market Conditions Survey for the UK fire industry.
The survey is open to all UK-based fire safety businesses.
It collects anonymous feedback on employment, training, pricing, and payment practices.
Responses will inform a publicly available benchmarking report.
The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete.
Participants will be entered into a draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.
The results will be used to support strategic planning and shared understanding across the sector.
The survey is currently accessible online via the FIA’s communication channels.