Fire hazards of lithium-ion batteries in buildings: CROSS UK report

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Lithium-ion battery risks detailed in new CROSS UK paper

Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures (CROSS UK) has published a Topic Paper examining the fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries in the built environment.

The paper presents information from publicly available research, industry guidance, and confidential reports within the UK.

It highlights the fire and explosion risks posed by both battery-powered devices and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

According to CROSS UK, lithium-ion batteries are used in smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, and other applications due to their high energy density and long lifespan.

However, they also present safety challenges, particularly in the event of thermal runaway, a self-sustaining reaction that can lead to fires or explosions.

Understanding thermal runaway and its hazards

Thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries can be triggered by overcharging, short-circuiting, or overheating.

Once initiated, it can cause rapid temperature increases, producing flammable and toxic vapours.

These incidents are difficult to control, with batteries capable of reigniting due to residual heat.

In some cases, they may react violently with common extinguishing agents.

CROSS UK’s paper warns that stakeholders must be aware of these risks and implement mitigation measures.

Recommended safety measures

The Topic Paper outlines several strategies to manage lithium-ion battery fire risks.

These include the use of battery management systems (BMS), fire detection and suppression systems, safe storage and disposal practices, adequate ventilation, and regular inspections.

CROSS UK states that emergency procedures should also be in place to respond to battery-related fire incidents effectively.

Intended audience for the paper

CROSS UK’s paper is relevant for those responsible for designing, constructing, and managing the built environment.

The organisation recommends it be reviewed by local authorities, building control bodies, developers, building surveyors, architects, fire engineers, facilities managers, and fire and rescue services.

The paper is also aimed at owners and occupiers of buildings where lithium-ion battery technology is in use or planned for installation.

Fire hazards of lithium-ion batteries in buildings: Summary

CROSS UK has published a Topic Paper examining fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in the built environment.

The report explains how thermal runaway can cause fires or explosions, making them difficult to control due to flammable vapours, potential reignition, and reactions with extinguishing agents.

The paper highlights the importance of safety measures, including battery management systems, fire detection and suppression systems, ventilation, and emergency procedures.

CROSS UK advises that those responsible for the design, construction, and management of buildings should stay informed about lithium-ion battery risks.

The full paper is available on the CROSS UK website.

SCDF releases 2024 emergency response and fire safety statistics

by Featured NewsResearch

Emergency medical services demand remains high

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) reported 245,279 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) calls in 2024, representing a 0.6% decrease from the previous year.

Despite this slight decline, the average daily EMS call volume remained high at 672 calls per day—28% above the pre-pandemic level of 525 calls per day in 2019.

Emergency calls made up 93.3% of total EMS responses, with 79.5% of cases related to medical emergencies such as chest pain and cardiac arrest.

Trauma cases accounted for 16.3%, while road traffic accidents represented 4.2%.

False alarm EMS calls fell by 9.1% to 5,713 cases, following SCDF’s public education initiatives aimed at reducing unnecessary emergency calls.

Fire incidents rise across non-residential and open spaces

SCDF responded to 1,990 fire incidents in 2024, a 1.8% increase from the 1,954 cases recorded in 2023.

Fires in residential premises remained stable, decreasing slightly by 0.2% to 968 cases.

The leading causes were unattended cooking and electrical faults.

However, fires involving Active Mobility Devices (AMDs) increased by 21.8% to 67 cases, with incidents in residential premises rising from 35 to 44.

Non-residential fires increased by 2.7% to 415 cases, while fires in non-building premises—such as vehicle fires and vegetation fires—rose by 4.7% to 607 cases.

Vegetation fires recorded the highest increase, rising by 35.3% to 180 cases.

Fire safety enforcement checks increase

SCDF conducted 15,075 fire safety enforcement checks in 2024, reflecting a slight increase of 0.2%.

The number of Fire Hazard Abatement Notices (FHANs) issued decreased by 5.7% to 2,579, with the most common violation related to non-maintenance of firefighting equipment.

Notices of Offence (NOO) dropped by 27.6% to 1,061, with unauthorised change of use of premises being the most common offence.

Court actions related to fire safety violations declined by 25.7% to 107 cases.

SCDF stated that it will continue enforcement efforts and public engagement to maintain fire safety compliance.

Community first responder participation increases

SCDF reported a rise in community emergency response through the myResponder app.

The response rate for cardiac arrest and minor fire incidents increased by 6.5% to 50.3% in 2024.

There were 40,245 new sign-ups for the app, marking a 14.1% increase from 2023.

Since its launch in 2015, the platform has registered more than 203,000 community responders.

SCDF stated that public participation has contributed to life-saving efforts, with 94 cardiac arrest victims receiving timely assistance from responders alerted through the app.

SCDF releases 2024 emergency response and fire safety statistics: Summary

SCDF reported 245,279 EMS calls in 2024, a 0.6% decrease from 2023, but still significantly above pre-pandemic levels.

Emergency calls accounted for 93.3% of EMS incidents, with nearly half involving seniors aged 65 and above.

Fire incidents increased by 1.8% to 1,990 cases.

While residential fires remained stable, non-residential and non-building fires rose by 2.7% and 4.7%, respectively.

Fires involving Active Mobility Devices increased by 21.8% to 67 cases.

Fire safety enforcement checks increased slightly to 15,075.

Notices for fire hazards and offences decreased, while court actions dropped by 25.7%.

The community first responder programme recorded a 6.5% rise in participation, with 40,245 new sign-ups for the myResponder app.

Since its launch, the platform has registered over 203,000 responders.

Euralarm releases guidance on fire safety in EV parking garages

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Overview of the new Euralarm EV parking garages fire safety guidance

Euralarm has published a new guidance document addressing fire safety concerns in parking garages that accommodate electric vehicles (EVs).

The document outlines key risks associated with EVs, such as thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, fire propagation in confined parking spaces, and the impact of increased vehicle sizes on fire spread.

It also provides an overview of mitigation strategies, including architectural adjustments, fire suppression systems, and enhanced detection methods.

The guidance compares the fire risks of EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, emphasising that modern vehicles contain higher plastic content, which can intensify fire spread.

It also highlights specific concerns related to charging stations, which pose an increased fire risk due to overheating and faulty connections.

Fire risks associated with electric vehicles in parking garages

The guidance outlines the unique fire risks of EVs compared to ICE vehicles.

One major concern is thermal runaway, where damaged or overheating lithium-ion battery cells trigger a chain reaction, leading to intense and prolonged fires.

The document notes that these fires are difficult to extinguish due to the sealed nature of EV battery packs.

Statistics referenced in the report indicate that while EV fires are less frequent than ICE vehicle fires, they present distinct challenges in confined environments such as parking garages.

The presence of charging infrastructure further complicates fire safety, as faults in cables and connectors can increase the likelihood of ignition.

Another factor highlighted is the increasing size of modern vehicles, including both EVs and ICE cars, which reduces spacing between parked vehicles.

This, combined with higher plastic content in contemporary vehicles, accelerates fire spread and increases the risk of structural damage in parking facilities.

Mitigation strategies and fire protection measures

Euralarm’s guidance outlines a range of fire protection strategies for EV parking garages.

These include:

  • Architectural considerations: Adjusting parking layouts to increase vehicle spacing and designing fire-resistant enclosures for charging stations.
  • Fire detection and suppression: Installing early fire detection systems, such as thermal cameras and gas sensors, alongside automated fire suppression systems like sprinklers and water mist systems.
  • Charging station safety: Implementing fire-resistant enclosures for charging areas, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and requiring periodic inspections of charging cables and connectors.
  • Emergency response planning: Developing protocols for fire service access, including designated firefighting zones and post-fire EV removal procedures to prevent re-ignition.

The guidance also stresses the importance of integrating multiple fire protection measures, rather than relying on a single solution, to enhance safety in EV parking facilities.

Regulatory considerations and recommendations

The guidance references international regulatory frameworks and national standards regarding EV fire safety in enclosed parking spaces.

It notes that some countries, such as Germany and France, have introduced specific safety requirements for EV charging stations in parking garages, including physical separation and enhanced ventilation systems.

Euralarm advises that fire protection strategies should be tailored to each facility’s design, taking into account national regulations, building codes, and insurance requirements.

The guidance encourages facility owners and policymakers to consider the long-term impact of EV adoption on parking infrastructure and fire safety measures.

Euralarm publishes fire safety guidance for electric vehicle parking garages: Summary

Euralarm has released a guidance document detailing fire safety considerations for electric vehicle (EV) parking garages.

The document highlights the risks associated with EV fires, particularly thermal runaway events in lithium-ion batteries, which can lead to prolonged and difficult-to-extinguish fires.

The guidance compares fire risks between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, noting that modern vehicles contain increased plastic content, which contributes to faster fire spread.

It also addresses the challenges posed by charging stations, which can be potential ignition points due to faulty equipment or overheating.

To mitigate these risks, Euralarm recommends a combination of architectural changes, enhanced fire detection and suppression systems, and stricter safety protocols for EV charging stations.

The document also references international regulations and best practices for managing EV fire risks in enclosed parking structures.

Facility owners and policymakers are encouraged to integrate multiple fire safety measures to improve overall risk management in EV parking garages.

Overview of the new Euralarm EV parking garages fire safety guidance

Euralarm has published a new guidance document addressing fire safety concerns in parking garages that accommodate electric vehicles (EVs).

The document outlines key risks associated with EVs, such as thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, fire propagation in confined parking spaces, and the impact of increased vehicle sizes on fire spread.

It also provides an overview of mitigation strategies, including architectural adjustments, fire suppression systems, and enhanced detection methods.

The guidance compares the fire risks of EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, emphasising that modern vehicles contain higher plastic content, which can intensify fire spread.

It also highlights specific concerns related to charging stations, which pose an increased fire risk due to overheating and faulty connections.

Fire risks associated with electric vehicles in parking garages

The guidance outlines the unique fire risks of EVs compared to ICE vehicles.

One major concern is thermal runaway, where damaged or overheating lithium-ion battery cells trigger a chain reaction, leading to intense and prolonged fires.

The document notes that these fires are difficult to extinguish due to the sealed nature of EV battery packs.

Statistics referenced in the report indicate that while EV fires are less frequent than ICE vehicle fires, they present distinct challenges in confined environments such as parking garages.

The presence of charging infrastructure further complicates fire safety, as faults in cables and connectors can increase the likelihood of ignition.

Another factor highlighted is the increasing size of modern vehicles, including both EVs and ICE cars, which reduces spacing between parked vehicles.

This, combined with higher plastic content in contemporary vehicles, accelerates fire spread and increases the risk of structural damage in parking facilities.

Mitigation strategies and fire protection measures

Euralarm’s guidance outlines a range of fire protection strategies for EV parking garages.

These include:

  • Architectural considerations: Adjusting parking layouts to increase vehicle spacing and designing fire-resistant enclosures for charging stations.
  • Fire detection and suppression: Installing early fire detection systems, such as thermal cameras and gas sensors, alongside automated fire suppression systems like sprinklers and water mist systems.
  • Charging station safety: Implementing fire-resistant enclosures for charging areas, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and requiring periodic inspections of charging cables and connectors.
  • Emergency response planning: Developing protocols for fire service access, including designated firefighting zones and post-fire EV removal procedures to prevent re-ignition.

The guidance also stresses the importance of integrating multiple fire protection measures, rather than relying on a single solution, to enhance safety in EV parking facilities.

Regulatory considerations and recommendations

The guidance references international regulatory frameworks and national standards regarding EV fire safety in enclosed parking spaces.

It notes that some countries, such as Germany and France, have introduced specific safety requirements for EV charging stations in parking garages, including physical separation and enhanced ventilation systems.

Euralarm advises that fire protection strategies should be tailored to each facility’s design, taking into account national regulations, building codes, and insurance requirements.

The guidance encourages facility owners and policymakers to consider the long-term impact of EV adoption on parking infrastructure and fire safety measures.

Euralarm publishes fire safety guidance for electric vehicle parking garages: Summary

Euralarm has released a guidance document detailing fire safety considerations for electric vehicle (EV) parking garages.

The document highlights the risks associated with EV fires, particularly thermal runaway events in lithium-ion batteries, which can lead to prolonged and difficult-to-extinguish fires.

The guidance compares fire risks between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, noting that modern vehicles contain increased plastic content, which contributes to faster fire spread.

It also addresses the challenges posed by charging stations, which can be potential ignition points due to faulty equipment or overheating.

To mitigate these risks, Euralarm recommends a combination of architectural changes, enhanced fire detection and suppression systems, and stricter safety protocols for EV charging stations.

The document also references international regulations and best practices for managing EV fire risks in enclosed parking structures.

Facility owners and policymakers are encouraged to integrate multiple fire safety measures to improve overall risk management in EV parking garages.

HSE launches consultation on Approved Document A for building structures in England

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsResearchSafety

HSE seeks feedback on structural safety guidance

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a consultation to gather views on the future of Approved Document A, which provides guidance on structural safety regulations in England.

According to CROSS UK, the call for evidence is open until 21 April 2025 and invites responses from individuals and organisations through an online survey or by email.

This consultation is the first step in a broader review process aimed at ensuring the guidance remains effective.

Approved Document A and its role in building regulations

Approved Document A is part of the statutory guidance that supports compliance with the Building Regulations.

It sets out practical methods to meet structural safety requirements, helping developers, engineers, and regulators adhere to national standards.

Building Regulations cover health, safety, security, access, and sustainability aspects of construction.

The Approved Documents provide a framework for ensuring compliance with these legal requirements.

Consultation details and how to participate

The consultation will run for ten weeks from 10 February 2025.

HSE has encouraged stakeholders to respond via an online survey, which facilitates a more efficient analysis of feedback.

Alternatively, responses can be submitted by email or post.

Participants are asked to specify whether they are responding as individuals or on behalf of an organisation, providing relevant contact details for verification.

Geographical scope and next steps

The call for evidence applies to England only, and there is no impact assessment associated with this consultation.

The responses collected will inform future updates to Approved Document A and contribute to the wider review of structural safety guidance.

HSE’s Technical Policy Team is managing the consultation, and further details on submission methods and contact information are available on the HSE website.

HSE launches consultation on Approved Document A for building structures in England: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a consultation on Approved Document A, which provides guidance on structural safety under England’s Building Regulations.

The consultation runs from 10 February to 21 April 2025 and seeks input from industry professionals and the public.

Approved Document A is part of the statutory guidance supporting the Building Regulations, helping to ensure compliance with structural safety requirements.

The consultation is open to responses via an online survey, email, or post.

HSE has encouraged participants to specify whether they are responding as individuals or on behalf of an organisation.

This call for evidence applies only to England and does not include an impact assessment.

The feedback collected will contribute to a broader review of structural safety regulations.

Further details, including submission options and contact information, are available on the HSE website.

HMICFRS assesses fire services’ progress on Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 recommendations

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Progress on Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations assessed by HMICFRS

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has provided an update on fire and rescue services’ (FRSs) implementation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 recommendations.

The update follows the inspectorate’s third round of FRS inspections, which reviewed 25 of England’s 44 services on their adherence to key recommendations aimed at improving response to high-rise incidents.

The findings highlight progress in training, communication, and evacuation procedures, while identifying challenges in record-keeping and the use of electronic systems.

HMICFRS’s letter, dated 12 February 2025, was sent to the Minister of State for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention, with copies to relevant officials.

The inspectorate states that while improvements have been made, further action is required to ensure consistency in implementation across all services.

Findings from recent inspections

HMICFRS reported that all 25 services inspected had adopted policies for managing multiple fire survival guidance (FSG) calls and for transitioning from a “stay put” to a “get out” strategy.

Control room operators generally felt confident in handling high call volumes, supported by the buddy system that links fire control teams across services.

The report also found that all inspected services had provided training on external cladding fire risks.

However, inconsistencies were noted in staff comprehension, with some personnel unable to demonstrate an understanding of fire spread in high-rise buildings.

Regarding electronic systems for managing FSG information, only 11 of the 25 services had implemented such technology, with others relying on manual methods.

HMICFRS identified cases where a lack of coordination led to miscommunication, potentially affecting incident response efficiency.

Challenges in training and communication

HMICFRS highlighted concerns about the effectiveness of training in some services.

While all services provided training on managing evacuation strategy changes, issues included incomplete attendance, lack of confidence among control room staff, and inadequate central coordination.

Some services also struggled to maintain training records.

For digital floor plans, the inspection found that some services had outdated or inaccessible records, limiting their usefulness for incident commanders and control room staff.

The report recommends improvements in data management to ensure critical information is readily available during emergencies.

Future inspections and Phase 2 recommendations

HMICFRS confirmed that its next inspection round, covering 2025 to 2027, will continue to assess FRSs’ progress on the Phase 1 recommendations.

It will also incorporate aspects of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, published in September 2024.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has been tasked with monitoring FRSs’ self-reported progress on all Phase 1 recommendations.

HMICFRS will maintain a general assessment approach rather than conducting detailed verification of each service’s implementation.

The Multi-Agency Incident Transfer system, intended to improve information sharing between control rooms, has made national-level progress, but local implementation challenges remain.

HMICFRS states that additional resources and commitment from fire services will be necessary for full adoption.

HMICFRS assesses fire services’ progress on Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 recommendations: Summary

HMICFRS has reviewed 25 of England’s 44 fire and rescue services on their implementation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 recommendations.

The findings indicate progress in training, communication, and policy development, but highlight inconsistencies in electronic systems, record-keeping, and staff understanding of high-rise fire risks.

All inspected services have adopted policies for handling multiple FSG calls and transitioning from a “stay put” to a “get out” strategy.

However, gaps remain in the effectiveness of training and coordination across services.

Only 11 out of 25 services have implemented electronic systems for managing FSG information.

Future inspections, scheduled between 2025 and 2027, will continue to monitor these areas, while also addressing elements of the Phase 2 recommendations.

HMICFRS notes that successful implementation of key systems, such as the Multi-Agency Incident Transfer system, will require additional resources and commitment from fire services.

New fire safety laws introduce compliance challenges for organisations

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Low awareness among professionals on fire safety law changes

WorkNest has reported that many organisations risk non-compliance with recent fire safety law changes, as over half of health and safety professionals are unclear on the details.

Polling conducted by WorkNest found that only 2% of respondents felt confident about the implications of the Building Safety Act 2022, which became fully effective in April 2024.

The amendments update Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) requirements, introduce ‘accountable’ and ‘competent’ person roles, and strengthen the authority of enforcement bodies.

Jeff Watkins, Head of Fire Safety at WorkNest, said: “These amendments follow on from the Grenfell Tower disaster’s Hackett Review, which also resulted in the Building Safety Act 2022.

“That Act has only been fully implemented for less than a year and those in the residential and construction industries particularly will have already been dedicating time and resources to it.

“However, there’s even more to be aware of now with regards to fire safety.”

Key fire safety amendments in the Building Safety Act 2022

The recent changes, introduced under Article 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022, modify FRA requirements and fire safety responsibilities.

The adjustments include clarifications on identifying and informing ‘Responsible Persons’ to improve coordination between stakeholders.

Full FRA documentation is now required instead of just a summary of significant findings.

Fire safety arrangements must include improved access to information for residents.

There is also a focus on the competence of fire risk assessors.

A new British standard is in draft form and is expected to be introduced this year to define the qualifications needed for conducting FRAs.

Building safety regulations introduce new construction requirements

The revisions include updates to Approved Document B (Fire Safety), affecting new developments.

New requirements mandate staircase, sprinkler, and lift shaft standards in all new buildings.

Additionally, the UK has adopted European standards for fire resistance materials, which will influence future construction projects.

These updates are intended to align fire safety regulations with modern construction practices and ensure that new developments meet stricter safety standards.

Government focus on fire safety reforms continues

WorkNest highlighted that fire safety remains a priority for the UK government, with ongoing regulatory developments.

Jeff Watkins added: “Fire safety is high on the Government agenda as it should be.

“We’re seeing new regulatory bodies being formed and an ongoing overhaul of legacy laws so it’s important that those in the building construction sector and all health and safety practitioners across the board keep on top of reforms.”

With new requirements affecting various sectors, businesses are urged to stay informed and update their fire safety protocols to ensure compliance.

New fire safety laws introduce compliance challenges for organisations: Summary

WorkNest has reported that organisations are at risk of non-compliance with recent fire safety law changes, with many health and safety professionals unclear on the amendments.

The Building Safety Act 2022, which came into full effect in April 2024, includes updates to Fire Risk Assessment requirements, introduces new responsible roles, and strengthens enforcement authorities.

Key changes under Article 156 include clearer definitions of ‘Responsible Persons,’ mandatory full FRA documentation, improved access to fire safety information for residents, and new competency requirements for fire risk assessors.

Updates to Approved Document B introduce new construction standards for staircases, sprinklers, lift shafts, and fire-resistant materials in all new developments.

The UK government continues to prioritise fire safety reform, with new regulatory bodies and further legislative changes expected.

WorkNest advises businesses in the residential and construction industries to stay informed and adapt their safety protocols accordingly.

Fire safety considerations for data centres: Euralarm releases new guidance

by Featured NewsFire DetectionFire SuppressionResearch

Euralarm publishes fire protection guidance for data centres

Euralarm has released a new guidance document on fire protection for data centres, detailing factors to consider and available solutions.

The document outlines how fire protection requirements vary by client and region and offers insights to help stakeholders choose the most appropriate measures.

It provides information on different fire suppression technologies, including sprinklers, water mist, gaseous systems, oxygen reduction systems, and condensed aerosols.

The guidance is aimed at data centre designers, operators, and fire protection professionals seeking clarity on how different solutions impact fire safety.

Key considerations for fire safety in data centres

The document explains that fire protection strategies must be tailored to individual data centres due to variations in infrastructure, risk factors, and operational priorities.

It highlights that while regulatory standards provide a baseline, they may not fully address the specific needs of data centres, where high-value equipment and critical data storage require enhanced protection measures.

Euralarm’s guidance discusses how fire suppression technologies differ in their suitability depending on the stage of a fire incident.

Understanding fire suppression technologies

The guidance provides an overview of several fire suppression options and their effectiveness in different scenarios.

Sprinkler and water mist systems are discussed for their ability to control fires quickly, while gaseous systems and oxygen reduction solutions are considered for their impact on sensitive electronic equipment.

Condensed aerosol systems are also reviewed as an alternative approach.

The document aims to help professionals assess these technologies beyond regulatory compliance, considering factors such as business continuity and asset protection.

Guidance for industry professionals

The publication is designed for professionals who already understand the importance of fire protection and are evaluating the implications of different solutions.

Rather than prescribing a single approach, the guidance helps stakeholders assess which fire protection methods align with their specific data centre requirements.

It also addresses potential challenges when selecting a particular approach over another.

Copies of the guidance document can be accessed through Euralarm’s website: https://www.euralarm.org/resource/guideline-on-selection-of-fire-protection-systems-for-data-centers-pdf.html.

Fire safety considerations for data centres: Summary

Euralarm has released a guidance document outlining fire protection strategies for data centres.

The document details key considerations for fire safety and how different suppression technologies apply to various fire stages.

It explains that fire protection needs vary by client and region, and professionals must assess solutions beyond basic compliance.

It reviews technologies such as sprinklers, water mist, gaseous systems, oxygen reduction, and condensed aerosols.

The guidance is intended for data centre designers, operators, and fire protection professionals.

It does not specify a single solution but helps stakeholders determine the most suitable approach for their circumstances.

The document is available for download on Euralarm’s website.

BSIF report finds high failure rates in non-member PPE products

by Featured NewsPPEResearch

BSIF tests reveal high PPE failure rates

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has warned about the widespread presence of substandard personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety products following its latest independent testing.

Between December 2023 and December 2024, BSIF tested 161 PPE products from non-member suppliers.

Only 16 products (10%) met full compliance standards, while 138 (90%) failed.

Seven test results are still pending. Failures were recorded across all PPE categories.

In some cases—such as head protection, eye and face protection, and fall protection—every non-member product tested failed to meet regulatory standards.

High failure rates across multiple PPE categories

BSIF’s testing found concerning safety failures in several key product areas:

  • Head protection: All six tested products failed, with deficiencies in penetration resistance and shock absorption.
  • Eye and face protection & fall protection: All 13 tested products failed, failing to resist impacts and compromising user safety.
  • Safety footwear: 31 out of 36 tested products (86%) failed, with issues including inadequate impact resistance and slip protection.
  • Hearing protection: 28 out of 31 tested products (90%) had incorrect cushion and headband pressures, affecting noise reduction.
  • Safety gloves: 21 out of 22 tested products (95%) failed to meet cut, abrasion, and puncture resistance claims.
  • Hi-vis clothing: 11 out of 13 tested garments (85%) failed brightness and visibility standards.
  • Respiratory protective equipment (RPE): 22 out of 25 tested products (88%) did not meet filtration requirements for hazardous dust and fumes.

BSIF member suppliers show better compliance rates

In contrast to the non-member results, BSIF found a significantly higher compliance rate among its Registered Safety Suppliers.

Out of 399 tests conducted on PPE from BSIF members, 322 products (86%) passed.

Of the 51 products that initially failed, all issues were addressed and corrected.

BSIF CEO Alan Murray said: “People are continually surprised by the sheer volume of PPE and safety products that fail to meet basic safety standards.

What’s even more shocking is that, despite vendors being informed of these deficiencies, such products often remain on the market, continuing to expose unsuspecting buyers and users to significant risks.”

BSIF urges buyers to verify supplier credentials

BSIF has advised PPE buyers and procurement teams to ensure that products meet regulatory standards by checking for the BSIF Shield.

The BSIF Registered Safety Supplier Scheme Manager, Roy Wilders, said: “When protective—and sometimes life-saving—equipment fails to meet standards, it’s not just a statistic; it’s a potential tragedy waiting to happen.”

Wilders added that the BSIF team actively monitors the market to identify and address substandard products, but buyers must also take responsibility by verifying suppliers before making purchases.

BSIF report finds high failure rates in non-member PPE products: Summary

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has reported that 90% of PPE products tested from non-member suppliers failed to meet compliance standards.

Testing between December 2023 and December 2024 covered 161 products, with 138 failing regulatory assessments.

Categories with 100% failure rates included head protection, eye and face protection, and fall protection.

In contrast, 86% of PPE from BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers passed compliance tests.

BSIF has urged buyers to check for the BSIF Shield to ensure they are purchasing safe and certified PPE.

Fire safety risks of plastic pipes revealed in CuSP study

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearchSafety

CuSP research examines fire hazards of plastic pipes

The Copper Sustainability Partnership (CuSP) has conducted a series of tests highlighting fire safety concerns associated with plastic pipes.

According to CuSP, three types of plastic pipes burned completely in under ten minutes, releasing toxic gases including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxide.

CuSP’s Plastic Under Fire campaign aims to raise awareness of the risks associated with plastic piping materials.

Tests conducted under laboratory conditions simulated real-life fire scenarios, comparing the performance of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), corrugated stainless-steel tubing (CSST), multi-layer composite pipe (MLCP), and copper.

The results showed that plastic pipes released high levels of harmful gases and smoke, potentially reducing evacuation time during a fire.

Toxic gas emissions from burning plastic pipes

The study found that PEX pipes were the most toxic material when burned, releasing large quantities of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

In the tests, PEX pipes completely burned in under three minutes.

CSST pipes were identified as the fastest-spreading material in a fire, producing 761 times more smoke than copper pipes within the first four minutes of burning.

PEX pipes ranked second in smoke density, producing 507 times more smoke than copper.

High smoke levels can accelerate fire spread and hinder evacuation by reducing visibility.

MLCP emits hydrogen cyanide when burned

MLCP, a material gaining popularity due to its low cost and ease of installation, burned in just over five minutes.

CuSP reported that MLCP released hydrogen cyanide, a highly toxic gas, at a concentration of 1.25 mg/m² within eight minutes of burning.

In contrast, copper pipes produced no hydrogen cyanide.

Hydrogen cyanide exposure can lead to severe neurological effects, respiratory failure, and, in extreme cases, death.

CuSP’s findings indicate that the use of MLCP in buildings could pose a serious health risk in the event of a fire.

Copper pipes found to be the safest option

CuSP stated that copper pipes did not burn under test conditions due to their high melting point of 1,085°C, which exceeds the temperatures typically reached in building fires.

The organisation noted that copper pipes released significantly lower levels of toxic gases and smoke compared to plastic alternatives.

Andrew Surtees, Co-Founder of CuSP, said: “These findings underline the critical importance for manufacturers and installers of considering the fire safety implications of different piping materials.

“Plastic pipes pose a serious risk both to human life and building structures, producing large amounts of smoke and a series of toxic chemicals in a fire.

“For plumbers, the choice of what pipe they are installing should not just be about what is the quickest or cheapest option – but about the long-term implications for people and the environment.”

Fire safety risks of plastic pipes revealed in CuSP study: Summary

CuSP has published findings from a study on the fire safety risks of plastic pipes.

The research found that PEX, CSST, and MLCP pipes burned completely within ten minutes, releasing hazardous gases including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen cyanide.

PEX pipes were identified as the most toxic material when burned, while CSST pipes produced 761 times more smoke than copper.

MLCP was found to emit hydrogen cyanide at 1.25 mg/m² within eight minutes of burning.

CuSP stated that copper pipes do not burn due to their high melting point and release significantly lower levels of toxic gases compared to plastic alternatives.

The organisation’s Plastic Under Fire campaign seeks to highlight the risks associated with plastic piping materials in building fires.

Reducing false alarms: Euralarm highlights multi-sensor technology

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Euralarm unveils white paper on multi-sensor fire detectors in Europe

Euralarm has reported that it has released a white paper covering how multi-sensor fire detectors may help reduce incorrect alerts in buildings.

According to Euralarm, the document offers details for professionals, managers, and regulators who oversee fire protection strategies.

Euralarm’s report states that multi-sensor devices bring together different detection methods to strengthen accuracy and accelerate response.

How multi-sensor detectors work

Traditional sensors rely on a single factor such as smoke, heat, or flames.

Euralarm’s white paper explains that multi-sensor models measure several signals to achieve early recognition of fires.

The paper notes that integrating multiple inputs can lower the chance of nuisance activations.

Potential benefits in varied settings

Multi-sensor detectors may assist residential, commercial, and industrial facilities by offering wider detection capabilities.

According to Euralarm, these devices respond to multiple fire indicators, allowing quicker evaluation of real threats.

This approach may lead to fewer disruptions caused by unnecessary evacuations.

Access to the document

Copies of the white paper can be obtained through the Euralarm website.

The organisation has provided the link for professionals and stakeholders to review the findings.

Euralarm states that the publication reviews key data on sensor reliability and system design.

Euralarm unveils white paper on multi-sensor fire detectors in Europe: Summary

Euralarm has released a white paper that describes how multi-sensor fire detectors can reduce false alarms.

The paper is directed at fire safety experts, building supervisors, and regulatory bodies in Europe.

It details how combining smoke, heat, or flame detection in one device may enhance early detection.

Traditional units that rely on a single factor can sometimes give incorrect alerts, according to Euralarm.

The document addresses these issues by highlighting multi-sensor systems and their ability to measure several signals.

Euralarm reports that these detectors have practical uses in residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

They also note how multi-sensor designs lower the rate of nuisance activations through integrated signal analysis.

The publication is available via Euralarm’s resource page.

It includes an overview of signal processing methods, technical considerations, and potential benefits for various applications.

Interested readers can access the white paper to study its complete findings.