AI and IoT drive growth in global voice evacuation systems market

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Global voice evacuation systems market projected to reach USD 1.79 billion by 2029

The global voice evacuation systems market is projected to grow by USD 1.79 billion from 2025 to 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.6%, according to a report by Technavio.

Technavio attributes this growth to the expansion of the real estate and construction sectors, alongside increased adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in building control systems.

The report states that voice evacuation systems are increasingly used in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and public spaces due to their ability to provide clear emergency instructions.

According to Technavio, Asia-Pacific is expected to account for 41% of the market’s growth, driven by urbanisation, infrastructure investments, and regulatory requirements for fire safety systems.

However, the report highlights that high initial installation costs of voice sounders and loudspeakers pose a challenge to widespread adoption.

IoT integration in voice evacuation systems

Technavio’s report states that IoT integration is improving voice evacuation systems by enabling interconnectivity between devices.

The report notes that traditional standalone voice alarm systems are now being incorporated into smart building ecosystems.

According to the report, IoT-enabled systems allow for real-time monitoring and automated alerts, which can improve response times.

Technavio also highlights that the development of mesh networks is expected to support connectivity among multiple devices, potentially enhancing system reliability.

The report indicates that regulatory bodies are increasingly requiring automated emergency alarm systems, which is contributing to the adoption of IoT-integrated solutions.

Challenges in adoption and installation costs

Technavio identifies cost as a key challenge in the adoption of voice evacuation systems.

The report states that the initial investment includes expenses for hardware, installation, and maintenance, which vary depending on building size and system complexity.

The report highlights that large-scale facilities, such as hospitals, hotels, and educational institutions, require more extensive installations, increasing procurement expenses.

According to Technavio, factors such as customisation, zoning considerations, and integration with existing fire safety and communication systems also impact overall costs.

Technavio’s report further states that retrofitting older buildings presents additional challenges, particularly in ensuring interoperability with legacy systems.

The report notes that professional installation services are typically required, adding to overall expenses.

Regional market trends and key players

Technavio’s report states that Asia-Pacific is expected to be the largest contributor to market growth, followed by North America and Europe.

The report identifies the US, China, Germany, and India as key markets due to regulatory requirements for fire safety systems and increasing infrastructure investments.

According to the report, key companies operating in the market include ABB Ltd., Eaton Corp plc, Honeywell International Inc., Siemens AG, Johnson Controls International Plc, Bosch GmbH, Baldwin Boxall Communications Ltd., and TOA Corp.

The report states that these firms are investing in research and development to improve system capabilities, with a focus on AI-driven automation and enhanced audio quality.

Technavio: Global voice evacuation systems market to grow by USD 1.79 billion by 2029 – Summary

A report by Technavio forecasts that the global voice evacuation systems market will grow by USD 1.79 billion between 2025 and 2029, with a CAGR of 21.6%.

The report attributes this growth to the expansion of the real estate and construction industries, as well as the increasing adoption of IoT in building management systems.

Technavio states that Asia-Pacific will contribute 41% of market growth.

The report highlights that IoT integration is improving system efficiency by enabling real-time monitoring and automated emergency response features.

However, it notes that high installation costs, system compatibility issues, and the need for professional installation services are challenges.

The report identifies key market players including ABB Ltd., Eaton Corp plc, Honeywell International Inc., Siemens AG, and Johnson Controls International Plc.

Technavio states that these companies are focusing on AI and automation to enhance voice evacuation system capabilities.

The report also highlights that regulatory requirements for fire safety systems are expected to drive further market demand.

Healthcare and education buildings top public safety concerns in the UK

by Breaking NewsResearchSafety

Survey reveals UK public concerns over building safety and maintenance

SFG20 has published the results of its Building Safety Survey 2024, highlighting public concerns over the safety and maintenance of buildings across the UK.

The survey, conducted with over 1,500 participants from 15 major UK cities, found that more than half of respondents were concerned about the condition of schools and hospitals.

The study also examined public confidence in government efforts to address structural and maintenance issues in public buildings.

The findings indicate that concerns over building safety have increased in recent years, particularly following events such as the Grenfell Tower fire and the discovery of RAAC concrete in schools.

Healthcare and education buildings rank highest in public concerns

The survey found that hospitals and care homes were the public’s highest priorities for building improvements.

Seventy-four percent of respondents said hospitals should be the primary focus for government action, followed by care homes (57%) and primary schools (56%).

More than 60% of respondents expressed concerns about the maintenance of healthcare facilities, particularly among those aged 35 to 44, where 68% reported worries over hospital safety.

In the education sector, 56% of participants raised concerns about the condition of school buildings, with 11% of parents reporting issues related to structural integrity at their child’s school.

Regional differences in building safety concerns

The survey identified regional variations in concerns over building safety.

London had the highest level of concern, with 69% of respondents expressing worries about local building conditions.

Manchester (58%) and Leicester (55%) also reported high levels of concern, while Bristol, Sheffield, and Liverpool ranked hospitals as the top priority for government intervention.

The survey also found that 19% of respondents had concerns about the health and safety of the buildings they lived in, with residents of Cardiff (25%), Southampton (25%), and Glasgow (23%) reporting the highest levels of worry.

Public perceptions of government efforts on building safety

The survey assessed public confidence in government efforts to improve building safety.

Almost one-third (31%) of respondents said they were dissatisfied with the government’s handling of the issue.

Two in five respondents expressed doubts that high-rise buildings in their area met current safety standards.

The highest level of distrust was recorded in Belfast, where 48% of residents said they did not believe local high-rises complied with regulations.

Newcastle, Birmingham, and Liverpool were identified as the areas where residents were most dissatisfied with government actions to maintain public buildings.

Survey reveals UK public concerns over building safety and maintenance: Summary

SFG20 has published findings from the Building Safety Survey 2024, which surveyed over 1,500 people across 15 UK cities on their perceptions of building safety and maintenance.

The survey found that more than half of respondents were concerned about school and hospital buildings.

Seventy-four percent of participants said hospitals should be the government’s priority for improvement, followed by care homes (57%) and primary schools (56%).

London recorded the highest level of concern (69%), followed by Manchester (58%) and Leicester (55%).

Nearly one in five respondents said they had concerns about the safety of their home, with Cardiff, Southampton, and Glasgow reporting the highest levels of worry.

The survey also found that 31% of respondents were dissatisfied with government efforts to improve building safety, with 40% expressing doubts that high-rise buildings in their area met current safety standards.

Growth in armoured vehicles AFES market driven by fire safety advancements

by Featured NewsResearchVehicles

Market for armoured vehicles AFES set for steady growth

The global market for Armored Vehicles Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems (AFES) was valued at $101.8 million in 2024 and is forecasted to grow to $121.7 million by 2030, according to a report published by Global Industry Analysts.

The market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.0% during this period.

The report highlights that increased investment in defence safety systems and technological advancements in fire suppression are contributing to this growth.

The use of AFES in military and law enforcement vehicles is expected to rise due to growing concerns over fire hazards caused by combat threats, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and projectile strikes.

Importance of AFES in armoured vehicle safety

AFES plays a critical role in protecting military personnel by automatically detecting and suppressing fires in armored vehicles.

The systems use various extinguishing agents such as Halon, dry chemicals, or clean agents to control fire outbreaks within seconds.

The need for AFES is driven by the risks associated with modern combat environments.

Vehicles deployed in high-threat zones face fire hazards from both external attacks and internal system malfunctions.

AFES helps mitigate these risks by ensuring rapid fire suppression, reducing the chances of vehicle damage and personnel casualties.

Technological advancements in AFES

Advancements in sensor technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are improving AFES efficiency.

Modern systems incorporate infrared and ultraviolet sensors, allowing for faster fire detection.

AI integration is also enhancing predictive maintenance, enabling vehicles to detect potential fire risks before ignition.

The industry is also shifting towards eco-friendly extinguishing agents.

These alternatives aim to reduce environmental impact while maintaining fire suppression effectiveness.

As defense forces worldwide adopt greener technologies, the demand for sustainable AFES solutions is expected to increase.

Regional market insights and growth trends

The United States remains a key market for AFES, with a valuation of $27.6 million in 2024.

China is projected to expand at a 2.8% CAGR, reaching $19.3 million by 2030.

Growth is also evident in Europe, with markets in Germany, France, Italy, and the UK showing steady demand.

The report identifies that Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) are expected to drive a significant portion of market growth, with projections reaching $70.5 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 3.3%.

Tanks and other fighting vehicles are anticipated to grow at 2.6% CAGR over the same period.

Global armored vehicles AFES market projected to reach $121.7 million by 2030: Summary

The global market for Armored Vehicles Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems (AFES) was valued at $101.8 million in 2024 and is expected to reach $121.7 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.0%.

According to Global Industry Analysts, this growth is driven by increasing defense investments and advancements in fire suppression technology.

AFES enhances vehicle and personnel safety by detecting and suppressing fires caused by combat threats and system malfunctions.

The adoption of AI, advanced sensors, and eco-friendly extinguishing agents is improving system efficiency.

The US market was valued at $27.6 million in 2024, while China is projected to grow at a 2.8% CAGR, reaching $19.3 million by 2030.

The APC segment is expected to reach $70.5 million by 2030 with a 3.3% CAGR.

Home Office releases detailed fire and rescue incident statistics for England

by Breaking NewsResearch

Fire and rescue statistics England: September 2024 data

The Home Office’s fire and rescue incident statistics for England, covering the year ending September 2024, revealed a total of 598,504 incidents attended by fire and rescue services (FRSs).

This figure marks a 1.0% increase compared to the previous year’s total of 592,293 incidents.

Over the past decade, incidents have increased by 18%, rising from 506,235 in 2014.

However, incidents peaked in the year ending September 2022, with approximately 621,000 recorded, largely due to the hot, dry summer that year.

The breakdown of incidents for 2024 shows that fires accounted for 22% of the total, while fire false alarms made up 42%, and non-fire incidents represented 35%.

Over the last decade, the share of non-fire incidents has increased, while fire-related incidents have declined.

Decline in fire incidents and fatalities

Fire incidents fell to 133,072 in 2024, a 7.4% decrease compared to 143,751 in 2023.

This represents the lowest figure since data collection began.

Over the past decade, fire incidents have decreased by 14%, with the number of primary fires falling from 70,937 in 2014 to 61,103 in 2024, a 14% decline.

Fire-related fatalities decreased by 4.7% in 2024, with 263 fatalities recorded compared to 276 in 2023.

Of these, 204 fatalities occurred in dwelling fires, a slight decline of 1.0% from the previous year.

Fatalities in high-rise flats or maisonettes (10 or more storeys) remained consistent, with two fatal fires and two fatalities recorded in both 2023 and 2024.

Non-fatal casualties increased slightly to 6,300 in 2024, up from 6,231 in 2023.

Of these, 2,758 required hospital treatment, a 1.6% rise compared to the previous year.

Rise in non-fire incidents and false alarms

Non-fire incidents reached 211,391 in 2024, reflecting a 4.8% increase from the 201,769 recorded in 2023.

This category has grown significantly over the past decade, with a 60% increase compared to 132,078 incidents in 2014.

Collaborating incidents, which include assisting other agencies, accounted for 34% of non-fire incidents, rising 11% to 71,681 in 2024.

Road traffic collisions (RTCs) also increased slightly by 1.4%, reaching 31,946 incidents.

Flooding incidents, however, fell by 3.7% to 17,978, while medical incidents decreased by 9.7% to 14,592.

False alarms, the largest category of incidents, totalled 254,041 in 2024, up 2.9% from 246,773 in 2023.

The majority of these (183,115) were attributed to apparatus, marking a 4.9% increase compared to the previous year.

Good-intent false alarms decreased slightly by 1.3%, while malicious false alarms fell by 7.4%.

Response times and regional comparisons

The average response time to primary fires in England was 9 minutes and 4 seconds, a 4-second increase compared to 2023.

Dwelling fires had an average response time of 8 minutes and 5 seconds, up by 6 seconds from the previous year.

In contrast, secondary fire response times improved, with a 7-second reduction to an average of 9 minutes and 16 seconds.

Comparisons across Great Britain for the year ending March 2024 showed that England accounted for approximately 600,000 of the 719,000 incidents attended in total.

Scotland and Wales recorded 80,000 and 38,000 incidents, respectively.

England had the lowest rate of incidents per million people (10,408), compared to 14,661 in Scotland and 12,028 in Wales.

Primary fires across the three nations totalled 75,000, with England responsible for 62,000 of these.

Fire-related fatalities in England accounted for 249 of the 309 fatalities across Great Britain, and England also had the highest number of non-fatal casualties at 6,347.

CheckFire comments on fire alarm maintenance after rise in false activations

Rise in false fire alarms and the need for maintenance

In response to the recently published fire and rescue incident statistics from the UK government, Bruce Robins, director at CheckFire, has highlighted the growing issue of false fire alarms caused by apparatus.

The data shows fire and rescue services (FRSs) in England attended 254,041 false fire alarms in the year ending September 2024.

This represents a 2.9% increase from the previous year and marks the highest total recorded since 2011.

Of these false alarms, 183,115 were attributed to apparatus, an increase of 4.9% compared to 2023 and a 25% rise over the last decade.

Diverting resources from emergencies

Bruce Robins stated: “Faulty or poorly maintained fire alarms not only disrupt emergency services but also divert vital resources away from genuine emergencies, where every second counts.”

False fire alarms caused by apparatus accounted for the largest proportion of false alarm incidents attended by FRSs.

Robins emphasised that preventable false activations can delay response times to critical emergencies.

He urged both the public and businesses to prioritise proper installation and routine maintenance of fire alarm systems.

Encouraging investment in reliable systems

Robins also pointed to the importance of investing in high-quality fire alarm systems and maintaining them regularly to avoid false activations.

He said: “Effective fire safety begins with attentiveness, from regular alarm testing and maintenance to ensuring the right fire safety measures are in place, such as clear signage and appropriate fire extinguishers.”

While the statistics highlighted a 7.4% reduction in fire incidents compared to the previous year, Robins stressed that this progress should not be undermined by preventable false alarms.

Reliable systems and proper maintenance are key to reducing strain on emergency services and ensuring public safety.

Supporting fire and rescue services through prevention

The rise in false fire alarms underscores the critical role of prevention in supporting the work of fire and rescue services.

Robins called on businesses and households to reduce preventable disruptions by adhering to maintenance schedules and ensuring systems are compliant with regulations.

“Doing so not only supports fire and rescue services but also enhances safety for everyone,” he said.

Fire and rescue statistics England: September 2024 data: Summary

The Home Office’s fire and rescue statistics for England highlight a mixed picture for the year ending September 2024.

Incidents attended increased by 1.0%, driven by a rise in non-fire incidents and false alarms.

Fire-related incidents continued to decline, reaching their lowest recorded level, while fire-related fatalities decreased to 263.

Non-fire incidents grew substantially, particularly collaborating incidents, which saw an 11% increase.

False alarms due to apparatus also continued their upward trend.

Response times to primary fires and dwelling fires increased slightly, in line with long-term trends.

The statistics, sourced from the Incident Recording System, provide a comprehensive view of fire and rescue activity in England and underscore changing patterns over the past decade.

Detailed data tables and further information are available on the Home Office’s website.

Bruce Robins, director at CheckFire, has urged businesses and households to take action following the UK government’s fire and rescue incident statistics.

The data shows a 2.9% rise in false fire alarms attended by FRSs in England, driven by a 4.9% increase in apparatus-related alarms.

Update to fire safety regulations for upholstered furniture in the UK

by Featured NewsPassiveResearchSafety

UK Government progresses fire safety review of upholstered furniture

The UK Government has released an update on its review of fire safety regulations for domestic upholstered furniture, as reported by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).

The review will amend the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (FFRs), reflecting evolving product innovation and evidence about chemical flame retardants (CFRs).

According to the Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets, the changes aim to maintain fire safety standards while reducing the use of potentially harmful chemicals.

The policy paper, published on 22 January 2025, outlines planned amendments to the FFRs, including updated product compliance requirements and changes to labelling regulations.

It also sets out next steps, which include further stakeholder consultation and the publication of new British Standards to support compliance.

Planned removal of children’s products from scope of fire regulations

Among the immediate actions, the Government plans to remove certain baby and children’s products from the scope of the FFRs.

This change addresses concerns about children’s exposure to CFRs and is based on evidence suggesting that the fire risk posed by these products is lower than the potential chemical risks.

Products to be excluded include mattresses under specific dimensions, car seats, playpens, and prams.

A complete list of excluded items is included in Annex A of the policy document.

The Government will monitor the impact of these changes to ensure the safety of exempted products.

Transition to new compliance and labelling requirements

The Government intends to simplify labelling requirements by replacing display labels with a single permanent label.

This change aims to enhance traceability across the supply chain without compromising consumer safety.

Stakeholders expressed broad support for this move, citing potential cost savings for businesses.

In the long term, new product compliance regulations will emphasise robust safety requirements, including final item testing and representative sample testing.

The Government has acknowledged challenges related to bespoke and made-to-order products and will engage with stakeholders to ensure the new requirements are proportionate and practical.

Support for re-upholstery and second-hand markets

The review also addresses the re-upholstery and second-hand furniture sectors, with proposals to clarify and streamline compliance obligations.

Initial changes include removing display label requirements for second-hand items.

Further discussions with small businesses and microenterprises in the upholstery sector will aim to develop proportionate reforms that protect consumers while supporting traditional and sustainable practices.

Future regulations will also examine how to balance consumer safety with reducing reliance on CFRs in re-upholstery, particularly through the use of alternative materials and methods.

Stakeholders raised concerns about the current regulatory burden on small businesses, prompting further review of proposed changes.

Furniture fire safety reform: summary

The UK Government has outlined a plan to modernise furniture fire safety regulations through amendments to the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988.

Immediate actions include removing specific baby and children’s products from regulatory scope and replacing display labels with a permanent label system.

The Government will work with stakeholders to refine proposals, address compliance challenges, and ensure new requirements support businesses while maintaining consumer safety.

The amendments are expected to be introduced later this year, with a six-month implementation timeline following parliamentary approval.

UK survey highlights lack of carbon monoxide awareness among residents

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Norwich and Brighton lead UK cities in carbon monoxide awareness

According to Firechief Global’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Report, Norwich and Brighton have been identified as the cities with the highest levels of carbon monoxide awareness in the UK, both achieving a score of 8.5 out of 10.

In Norwich, 64% of residents were aware of the gas’s traits, such as its poisonous and colourless nature, while 68% recognised the symptoms of exposure, including dizziness.

Similarly, Brighton had the highest awareness of carbon monoxide traits at 68%, with 66% recognising symptoms and 62% understanding the sources of the gas.

Additionally, 78% of Brighton residents reported having a carbon monoxide alarm, ranking third nationwide for detector installation.

London and Birmingham rank among lowest for awareness

The report highlighted that London ranks as the city with the lowest carbon monoxide awareness in the UK, with only 57% of residents aware of its traits and 61% knowing the correct actions to take in case of a leak.

Furthermore, only 68% of Londoners reported having a carbon monoxide alarm installed, the second-lowest percentage across the nation.

Birmingham followed closely, ranking second-lowest.

The report revealed that 58% of Birmingham residents recognised carbon monoxide traits, while 59% were aware of symptoms.

Although 71% reported having an alarm installed, only 60% knew the proper steps to follow if their detector sounded.

Widespread knowledge gaps on carbon monoxide traits and safety measures

The survey revealed that 73% of Brits are unaware that carbon monoxide is flammable.

While most respondents (79%) recognised that the gas is poisonous, 33% were unaware that it is colourless, and 31% did not know it is odourless.

In terms of safety measures, only 57% of participants knew to turn off appliances when an alarm sounds.

While 73% would open windows and 70% would evacuate, just 54% indicated they would contact emergency services—an essential step in responding to a potential leak.

Alarm installation rates and age group disparities

The report found that 72% of UK households have a carbon monoxide alarm installed, leaving 28% without one or unsure if one is present.

Younger adults aged 16-24 were the least likely to have a detector, with 31% stating they did not have one or were unsure.

This figure slightly decreased for those aged 25-34 at 30%, and further declined to 25% among older age groups.

Ian Poole, Sales and Marketing Director at Firechief Global, commented: “Our survey highlights the crucial nature of providing the education needed for people to comfortably act in preventing the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

All homes with fuel-burning appliances must have carbon monoxide alarms fitted…

otherwise you may face fines up to £5,000 per property for non-compliance.”

Firechief Global report reveals UK’s carbon monoxide awareness gaps: Summary

Firechief Global’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Report found that two in five Brits are unaware of carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms.

Norwich and Brighton scored the highest for awareness, while London ranked the lowest.

Gaps in understanding traits, such as its flammability, were evident, with 73% unaware of this characteristic.

Despite 72% of UK households having carbon monoxide detectors, younger demographics were the least likely to have alarms installed.

Firechief Global stressed the importance of education and compliance to mitigate risks associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.

Further reading: The Silent Threat – CO-Gas Safety explains the unseen dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service respond to over 4,500 incidents in five years

by Featured NewsResearch

Deliberate fires across the UK continue to waste valuable resources and put lives at risk, despite Fire and Rescue Services across the UK attending fewer incidents than last year. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue has been revealed as attending over 11,000 incidents since 2019 by a new investigation, with many of these being deliberate fires.

Primary and secondary fires

Figures obtained by Public Interest Lawyers found that the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has attended 11,544 primary and secondary fires over the past five years, with around 40% of these being deliberate fires.

Primary fires are potentially more serious fires that cause harm to people or damage to property.  Secondary fires are generally small outdoor fires, not involving people or property and these include refuse fires, grassland fires and fires in derelict buildings or vehicles.

In 2019/20, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended 2,487 primary and secondary fires, the second-highest number of fires in the past five years. Two years later, this number decreased to 2,028, caused by restrictions and lockdowns during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Service has experienced a drop in primary and secondary fires over the past year, with a total of 1,921.

Deliberate fires

Fire Rescue Services (FRSs) attended 600,324 incidents in the year ending March 2024, a decrease of 3.6% compared with the previous year (622,659).  Of these incidents, there were 138,977 fires, which was a decrease of 22% compared with the previous year (178,867).

Despite this positive drop in fires across the UK, a worrying percentage of these incidents are deliberate fires, which can lead to injuries and fatalities.

In the Public Interest Lawyers research 40% of primary and secondary fires were found to be deliberate fires. Victims of deliberate fires may lose all their property, become homeless or be seriously injured. The impact of arson is not just financial; it can also significantly affect a person’s emotional well-being and sense of security.

As highlighted by the Public Interest Lawyers, deliberately set fires are dangerous and are a criminal offence. They waste time, money and keep fire crews away from real emergencies. Deliberately set fires commonly include bins, skips, fly-tipped waste, derelict buildings, dry grass and heathland.

The impact across Hertfordshire

The Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has recorded 34 deliberate fire injuries since 2019. The highest annual total was eight in 2021/22 and 2022/23.

Whilst the impact of lockdowns in 2021 may have depressed the number of deliberate cases, the figures show that not only is arson the leading single cause of the fire but highlight the extent to which the increasing threat of arson must be taken seriously.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service covers a wide area, which is divided into districts. Based on figures gathered from the service, the district where the most fires have occurred since 2019 is Dacorum at 1,581. East Hertfordshire, North Hertfordshire and Welwyn Hatfied District’s also experienced over 1,300 incidents.

Rise in deliberate fires attended by Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Since 2019, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service have attended an increased amount of deliberate fires, over 4,500 out of the 11,544 incidents. Meaning that deliberate fires made up over 40% of the incidents attended by the Service.

PEMA publishes white paper on fire detection and suppression systems for port equipment

by Featured NewsFire DetectionFire SuppressionPorts & MaritimeResearch

Fire detection and suppression systems in mobile port equipment: PEMA white paper insights

The Port Equipment Manufacturers Association (PEMA) has released a white paper titled Fire Detection and Suppression Systems for Mobile Port Equipment.

This document addresses the growing fire risks associated with mobile port machinery and proposes safety measures to mitigate these risks.

The paper discusses the widespread adoption of fire suppression systems, particularly in port equipment using internal combustion engines (ICE) and hybrid or electric systems.

It also examines fire hazards linked to port electrification and autonomous machinery, recommending industry-wide adoption of advanced safety systems.

Challenges in fire suppression for complex port equipment

PEMA’s paper highlights specific challenges in combating fires in intricate port equipment.

Issues like delayed detection in autonomous systems and the complexities of fire management in electrified machinery are outlined.

The report stresses the importance of rapid response and robust fire suppression technologies.

It notes that engine compartments, hydraulic systems, and high-temperature components present critical fire hazards, requiring advanced detection and suppression measures.

Environmental impact of firefighting in port environments

The document examines the environmental repercussions of using traditional fire suppression methods in ports.

It focuses on the contaminated extinguishing water produced during firefighting and its potential harm to marine ecosystems.

PEMA advocates for eco-friendly fire suppression systems and containment strategies to minimise environmental damage.

Recommendations include employing biodegradable agents and establishing filtration systems to prevent pollutants from entering waterways.

Recommendations for enhanced safety measures

The white paper calls for comprehensive fire safety protocols in ports.

It recommends installing advanced fire suppression systems across all equipment, particularly in high-risk areas.

PEMA emphasises the need for collaboration between manufacturers, port operators, and safety authorities to establish consistent safety standards.

It also highlights the importance of regular maintenance and adherence to emerging regulatory frameworks to ensure system reliability.

Fire detection and suppression systems in mobile port equipment: Summary

PEMA’s white paper, Fire Detection and Suppression Systems for Mobile Port Equipment, examines the rising fire risks in port operations.

The document identifies the need for advanced fire suppression systems, particularly in engine compartments and electrified machinery.

It discusses environmental concerns related to firefighting and suggests implementing eco-friendly systems to mitigate ecological damage.

The paper recommends mandatory installation of suppression systems, regular maintenance, and enhanced industry collaboration to improve safety standards.

Fire and life safety services market forecasted to grow globally

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Market growth driven by smart technologies and regulatory compliance

The global fire and life safety services market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.35% from 2023 to 2029, according to ResearchAndMarkets.

This growth is attributed to smart city developments, infrastructure projects, and industrial expansion.

The largest market segment by service is testing, inspection, repair, and maintenance, which accounts for over 51% of the market.

These services are essential for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining the functionality of fire and life safety systems.

In terms of end-users, educational institutions represent the fastest-growing segment, driven by the necessity to safeguard students, staff, and property.

North America leads the market geographically due to strict regulations and ongoing construction activity.

Integration of smart technologies enhances services

Smart technologies are transforming fire and life safety services.

IoT-enabled devices, such as sensors and alarms, provide real-time monitoring, data collection, and predictive analytics.

AI can use this data to predict potential fire risks, enabling quicker responses and preventive measures.

Cloud platforms are increasingly used to monitor fire suppression systems, sprinklers, and alarms, further improving efficiency and response times.

In developed regions, the adoption of smart fire safety equipment has created a demand for specialised maintenance services, supporting market growth.

Focus on emergency preparedness and safety training

Emergency preparedness and life safety are becoming priorities globally.

Companies now provide fire drill demonstrations, safety training, and awareness programs through various channels, including social media.

Businesses also train employees on managing fire-related emergencies.

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies are emerging as tools for evacuation and safety training, offering realistic simulations in controlled environments.

Challenges posed by cybersecurity risks in connected systems

The integration of IoT-enabled systems in fire and life safety services presents cybersecurity risks.

These include vulnerabilities to hacking, threats to cloud-based monitoring systems, and data privacy concerns.

Hackers may exploit IoT devices, manipulate sensor data, or disable alarms, compromising building safety.

The risks are magnified by the increasing number of connected devices and insufficient cybersecurity standards in the sector.

To mitigate these risks, secure system integration and robust cybersecurity measures are essential.

Fire and life safety services market 2024-2029: Summary

The global fire and life safety services market is expected to grow at a 4.35% CAGR from 2023 to 2029, driven by smart city initiatives, infrastructure projects, and industrial growth.

Testing, inspection, repair, and maintenance dominate the service segments, while educational institutions lead growth among end-users.

Technological advancements, including IoT and AI integration, are enhancing fire safety measures and improving response times.

However, cybersecurity risks in connected systems pose significant challenges, requiring stricter standards and secure practices.

UKTC achieves record growth in testing services

by Featured NewsResearchTraining

Record year for fire resistance testing at UKTC

According to United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC), the East Kilbride-based laboratory has completed a record-breaking year in 2024.

Over 450 fire resistance tests were conducted in their UKAS-accredited facility, maintaining a four-week turnaround time for final reports.

The laboratory has also seen its workforce nearly double.

Reflecting on the year’s success, Dan Fitzsimmons, Head of Testing at UKTC, said: “I’m very proud of what we have achieved here at UKTC over the last 12 months.

“Adding to our already extensive customer service portfolio, we have added new test methodologies and have kept up with our industry-leading report turnaround times.”

Expanding testing capabilities for 2025

UKTC is preparing for further growth in the upcoming year.

Plans are in place to expand its fire resistance and reaction-to-fire testing capabilities.

Fitzsimmons outlined the upcoming investments: “Looking to the future, we are expanding our Reaction to Fire capabilities by adding several pieces of equipment and technology to our already extensive portfolio of testing services.”

In addition to enhancing testing services, UKTC has launched a certification division.

This new department is led by Ian Laithwaite and Matthew Dale, who bring a combined four decades of industry expertise to the organisation.

Recognition through industry awards

UKTC received notable recognition in its first year as an Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) member.

The organisation was nominated for two awards, showcasing the contributions of staff members Nathan and Rob.

Fitzsimmons said: “Both Nathan and Rob are a credit to this business and help us drive the business forward.”

These achievements reflect the company’s continued focus on delivering high-quality services to its clients across the UK, from fire resistance to reaction-to-fire testing.

Supporting UK manufacturers of passive fire products

UKTC provides accredited testing and certification services for passive fire product manufacturers in the UK.

The organisation’s expertise supports compliance with industry standards while helping manufacturers improve product safety and performance.

For more details, visit their website at www.uktestcert.com.

UKTC achieves record growth in testing services: Summary

United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC), based in East Kilbride, has reported record-breaking achievements in 2024.

The laboratory conducted over 450 fire resistance tests with an industry-leading four-week report turnaround time.

Workforce numbers nearly doubled, and the company was recognised with two nominations in its first year as an ASFP member.

Plans for 2025 include expanding fire testing capabilities and launching a certification division led by experts Ian Laithwaite and Matthew Dale.

UKTC continues to provide accredited testing services to UK passive fire product manufacturers.