Institution of Fire Engineers seeks input on early career development

by Breaking NewsFire EngineeringResearch

IFE launches poll for early career development in fire engineering

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has launched a poll to gather feedback on early career development in fire engineering.

The poll aims to understand the challenges, aspirations, and support areas for early career professionals in fire engineering. IFE encourages participation to tailor their resources and offerings better.

Poll details and questions

The poll includes questions about essential qualities for future leaders, key aspects of improving career opportunities, and the most efficient vocational routes into fire engineering. Participants can choose from various options like enhancing diversity, expanding training programs, and providing mentorship.

The feedback collected will help IFE shape its resources to support professional growth and development for early career members.

Importance of the poll

The IFE poll is crucial for understanding the needs of early career professionals in the fire engineering sector. By participating, members can influence the direction of IFE’s offerings and ensure they address the most pertinent issues facing new entrants in the field.

The poll’s focus on qualities like effective communication, adaptability, and team building highlights the multifaceted nature of leadership in fire engineering.

How to participate

IFE members and early career professionals can participate in the poll through the provided link: IFE Early Career Development Poll. The input gathered will directly influence the support structures and resources developed by IFE.

Global firefighting foam market projected to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2034

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionResearch

Firefighting foam market overview

The global firefighting foam market, valued at USD 815.4 million in 2023, is expected to grow to USD 1.2 billion by 2034, according to a report by Transparency Market Research, Inc.

This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% over the forecast period.

Fire incidents are rising worldwide due to various materials and their properties.

These incidents can cause significant loss of wealth and livestock.

To prevent such hazards, new techniques and tools have been introduced in the market to enhance fire extinguishing processes.

Firefighting foams, which extinguish fires by cutting off the oxygen supply, are becoming more popular due to their efficiency.

Types and uses of firefighting foams

Synthetic foams are widely used to combat fires caused by flammable liquids.

These foams are gaining traction in various end-user industries due to their risk mitigation capabilities.

The expansion ratio of foams varies based on the proportioning and discharge devices, allowing them to cater to different fire severities.

The demand for commercial uses of firefighting foams is expected to increase, driven by regulatory norms and policies aimed at preventing fire-related mishaps.

As technological infrastructure grows, key industry players are innovating to enhance the efficiency of firefighting foams, contributing to their rising popularity.

Market segmentation and key players

The competitive landscape of the firefighting foam market is segmented by foam type, material type, and application.

Aqueous film-forming foam is expected to gain traction in shipboard and shore applications.

Class C foams are becoming more popular due to increasing fire cases caused by electrical short-circuiting, while Class K foams are in demand for kitchen fires.

The oil and gas industry is expected to be the largest consumer of these foams.

Prominent companies in the market include Johnson Controls, Solvay, Chemguard, National Foam, Angus Fire, Buckeye Fire Equipment Company, Dafo Fomtec AB, Sthamer, and Kerr Fire.

Recent developments include Solvay’s new production unit in Italy and Johnson Controls’ sale of Air Distribution Technologies Business to Truelink Capital.

Regional insights

The demand for firefighting foams is expected to rise in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions due to the developing oil and gas industries.

Europe is likely to create more prospects for leading market organizations with its growing infrastructure for firefighting equipment.

North America’s technological advancements will drive innovation in the industry, further enhancing the competitive landscape.

Saudi Arabia data centre fire detection market projected for significant growth

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionPassiveResearch

Data centre fire detection market overview and growth drivers

The “Saudi Arabia Data Center Fire Detection and Suppression Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2019-2029F” report, published by ResearchAndMarkets.com, indicates that the market was valued at USD 56 million in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.4% through 2029.

Key factors driving this growth include rapid digitisation across industries, making data centres crucial for storing and processing large volumes of sensitive information.

The need for continuous operations and protection against fire hazards has led to increased demand for advanced fire detection and suppression systems.

Additionally, stringent regulatory standards and the introduction of innovative technologies tailored for data centres are further propelling market expansion.

Integration of AI and machine learning for enhanced detection

A notable trend in the Saudi Arabian market is the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning in fire safety systems.

These technologies enable predictive analysis by identifying patterns and anomalies that indicate potential fire incidents.

AI-driven algorithms improve detection accuracy and minimise false alarms by continuously learning from data patterns.

These intelligent systems leverage real-time monitoring and analysis to ensure prompt responses to fire hazards, enhancing the reliability of fire detection.

Moreover, AI integration facilitates more efficient resource allocation for fire suppression, optimising overall fire safety preparedness in data centres.

Shift towards eco-friendly suppression agents

There is a growing preference for eco-friendly and sustainable fire suppression agents in the Saudi Arabian market.

Traditional suppression systems often used agents that posed environmental risks or damaged sensitive data centre equipment.

To address these concerns, the market is shifting towards agents that are environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and leave no residue upon activation.

Innovations include clean agents like inert gases and chemical compounds that provide effective fire suppression without harming the environment or critical infrastructure.

This trend aligns with global sustainability initiatives and reflects a commitment to minimising environmental impact while ensuring robust fire safety measures in data centres.

Adoption of multi-sensor detection systems

Data centre operators in Saudi Arabia are increasingly adopting multi-sensor detection systems to enhance fire detection capabilities.

These systems combine various sensor technologies, such as smoke, heat, and air sampling sensors, to provide comprehensive and early detection of fire incidents.

Utilising multiple sensors increases detection accuracy, reduces false alarms, and improves overall reliability in diverse data centre environments.

The adaptability of multi-sensor systems caters to the complexities of modern data centres, offering a holistic approach to fire detection that addresses various potential fire sources and scenarios.

Comprehensive analysis of 2022 fire statistics published by CFS CTIF

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsResearch

Key findings of the 2022 fire statistics report

As reported by CTIF, the CFS CTIF has published an in-depth analysis of fire statistics for 2022, encompassing data from various countries and cities worldwide.

The report highlights essential findings, including the types of fire service calls, the number of fires, fire victims, and firefighter fatalities for the period from 2018 to 2022.

The 2022 statistics include data from 55 countries, covering one-fifth of the global population, and 42 cities.

The analysis provides insights into fire trends and incidents, helping to understand the global fire scenario.

It reports on the types of fire service calls, the number of fires, fire victims, and firefighter fatalities in 57, 81, 74, and 27 countries, respectively, over the last five years.

Fire injury and service data collection

The report also delves into the types of fire injuries reported between 2018 and 2022, based on data from 54 countries.

In addition to injury data, the study includes information on fire services from 66 countries around the world.

This comprehensive collection and analysis aim to enhance the understanding and management of fire incidents globally.

A unique feature of the report is a table detailing the distribution of fires by their causes, providing a clear overview of the most common sources of fire incidents.

This valuable data is expected to aid in formulating better fire prevention and response strategies.

Focus on forest fires and multilingual availability

The report dedicates a specific chapter to forest fires, addressing their frequency, causes, and impact.

This section aims to provide a focused analysis of one of the most critical types of fires affecting numerous countries.

The CFS CTIF has ensured the report is accessible to a broader audience by publishing it in three languages: English, Spanish, and German.

This multilingual approach facilitates the dissemination and understanding of the findings across different regions and linguistic groups.

Future steps and acknowledgments

The CFS CTIF has expressed gratitude to the National Committees that contributed to the 2022 fire statistics.

The organisation is now preparing to work on the next report, urging all National Committees to submit their 2023 fire statistics by May 1, 2025.

The authors of the report welcome suggestions to improve the work of the Fire Statistics Centre.

UK renters lack smoke alarms, Firechief Global survey reveals

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Firechief Global survey highlights smoke alarm gap in UK rental homes

A recent survey conducted by Firechief Global, the UK’s fastest-growing fire safety company, has revealed that over 2 million people living in rented accommodations in the UK do not have a smoke alarm fitted.

Firechief Global’s findings indicate that 17% of UK renters lack smoke alarms.

Given that 18.8% of the UK’s population of 67.8 million are renters, this percentage equates to just over 2 million individuals.

As reported by Firechief Global, Greater London is the most affected, with nearly a quarter (24%) of all households, both renters and owners, without smoke alarms.

In Northern Ireland, the figure stands at 22%.

In response to these findings, Laurie Pollard, Managing Director at Firechief Global, said: “In light of these alarming findings, all landlords must check their properties and ensure that the correct fire safety measures are in place to protect tenants first and foremost.”

The importance of proper smoke alarm installation

In the year 2022/23, there were 321 fire-related fatalities in the UK.

The Government’s Fire Kills campaign highlighted that individuals are ten times more likely to die in a fire if their home does not have a working smoke alarm.

Besides the absence of smoke alarms in 2 million rental properties, the survey pointed out that many smoke alarms are not tested regularly.

While tenants should check alarms frequently, landlords should demonstrate the testing process upon tenant move-in.

During 2020/2021 in England, there was a 28% failure rate of smoke alarms.

This rate was higher in Scotland at 39%, and in Wales, it reached 50%.

Laurie Pollard emphasised the issue: “The importance of installing and maintaining working smoke alarms in every home cannot be overstated.

The absence of smoke alarms in millions of homes denies individuals the essential extra time needed to escape a fire safely.

This critical time can mean the difference between life and death.”

Landlord responsibilities under the law

The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 stipulate that all landlords must ensure at least one smoke alarm is installed on each storey of homes where there is a room being used as living accommodation.

This requirement has been in place in the private rented sector since 2015.

While no specific type of smoke alarm is mandated, it is recommended that landlords choose alarms based on the needs of their buildings and tenants.

Compliance with British Standards BS 5839-6 is advised.

For battery-powered alarms, those with ‘sealed for life’ batteries are more reliable than those with replaceable batteries.

Enforcement and penalties for non-compliance

Local authorities are responsible for upholding these regulations and issuing penalties for non-compliance.

If a landlord fails to install the required alarms, the local authority must issue a remedial notice, ordering action within 28 days.

Failure to comply can result in a civil penalty of up to £5,000 per breach, meaning landlords could face unlimited fines for multiple non-compliant properties.

BRE and FIA investigate performance of contaminated heat sensors

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Research projects on contaminated heat sensors

Building Research Establishment (BRE) and the Fire Industry Association (FIA) are conducting two research projects to investigate the performance of contaminated heat sensors.

One project focuses on heat detectors connected to fire panels, and the other on heat alarms, which are self-contained devices for domestic applications.

As reported by the FIA, obtaining appropriate samples of used devices with supporting information on their history has been the most challenging task.

Need for more samples

BRE and the FIA have expressed their gratitude to everyone who has provided samples so far, particularly those who completed the supporting short questionnaire.

These contributors will be acknowledged in the final report.

However, to ensure statistical significance, at least 200 good samples are required.

To date, a good mix of heat detectors (17 models representing nine manufacturers) has been received.

A small proportion of these detectors have been observed to be operating outside the limits of EN 54-5, but many more samples are needed.

Call for contributions

The BRE and FIA are urging anyone with used heat detectors or heat alarms over five years old or showing signs of significant contamination to download and complete the appropriate questionnaire.

The completed forms should be returned to Gemma Sambells at BRE.

This effort is crucial to obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the performance of these devices and ensuring the research results are statistically significant.

The Invisible Risk Survey: Comprehensive study launched to gather firefighter health data

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyResearch

Study aims to identify hidden firefighter health risks

SimTrainer UK has launched “The Invisible Risk Survey,” a comprehensive study focused on cancer diagnoses and related health issues within the firefighter and emergency responder community.

Spearheaded by John Lord, Managing Director at SimTrainer UK, the survey aims to uncover the hidden health risks faced by those serving on the front lines of public safety.

The key objectives include understanding the prevalence and types of cancer affecting firefighters, evaluating current practices regarding contaminated clothing and equipment, measuring employer and healthcare support systems, promoting awareness of health programs and early screening methods, and documenting other significant health issues such as cardiovascular and mental health conditions.

The survey is open to all current and retired firefighters, emergency responders, and associated support staff.

Participation is crucial to building a comprehensive database that will drive future research, improve health and safety standards, and ultimately save lives.

Fill in the survey here.

Call to action for survey participation

SimTrainer UK is urging all relevant individuals to participate in this survey.

The input provided will be invaluable in shaping the future of health and safety protocols for those who risk their lives to protect others.

To take part in the survey, participants can visit the provided survey link.

John Lord emphasized the importance of the survey: “The invisible risk survey is to gather data from sources missed by the FBU UCLAN survey.

“Aviation, industrial, military firefighters, other blue light agencies, retired personnel from all agencies, and support staff like fireground and BA tech are encouraged to participate.”

He added: “If you have had cancer, have cancer, or have a close family member who lives with you, please consider completing the survey.

“It’s anonymous, with no personal details like names or emails required. It includes a section on heart disease and other serious illnesses and is informative and interesting to see what’s highlighted.”

Goals of the survey

The primary goals of The Invisible Risk Survey are to identify cancer trends among firefighters and emergency responders, assess workplace practices related to handling contaminated clothing and equipment, gauge the support provided by employers and healthcare professionals, increase awareness of available health programs and early screening methods, and highlight additional health concerns such as cardiovascular and mental health conditions.

By understanding these factors, SimTrainer UK aims to develop strategies and recommendations that will enhance the health and safety standards within the firefighter community.

The findings from this survey will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the health risks faced by those in this profession and help in the creation of better support systems.

Importance of community participation

Lord stressed the importance of community participation: “This survey is essential in helping us build a detailed and accurate database that will inform future research and initiatives.

“The more data we can collect, the better we can understand and address the health challenges faced by our firefighters and emergency responders.”

The data collected will be used solely for research purposes and to improve health and safety standards.

IFSJ Comment

The “The Invisible Risk Survey” by SimTrainer UK represents a focused effort to address health concerns within the firefighter and emergency responder community.

By targeting a wide range of participants, including those from aviation, industrial, military, and other blue light agencies, the survey aims to fill gaps left by previous studies.

This initiative seeks to gather comprehensive data on cancer trends, workplace practices, support systems, and other health issues.

The anonymity and inclusivity of the survey encourage broad participation, which is essential for building a robust database.

This data will be crucial for developing improved health and safety protocols, ultimately benefiting the individuals who serve on the front lines of public safety.

The commitment to understanding and addressing these hidden health risks reflects a proactive approach to enhancing the wellbeing of firefighters and emergency responders.

CLM Fire Testing partners with FPA for UKAS accredited fire testing laboratory

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsResearch

CLM Fire Testing and FPA collaboration for new lab

CLM Fire Testing, part of CLM Group, has announced a partnership with the Fire Protection Association (FPA) to establish a new UKAS accredited fire testing laboratory.

As reported by CLM Fire Testing, this collaboration aims to enhance fire safety standards and foster innovation within the fire protection industry.

The partnership will provide clients and the supply chain with premier access to essential fire testing services.

The new facility promises equitable pricing, superior service availability, and complete independence and impartiality, ensuring rigorous testing standards.

CEO remarks on the new facility

Tom Gilbert, CEO of CLM Group, stated: “CLM’s commitment to improving the built environment is unwavering.

“Our significant investment in much-needed testing capacity in the UK will enable our clients to access our UKAS accredited laboratory, conveniently and without excessive lead times.”

He emphasised the importance of impartiality and the seamless approach to accessing high-quality testing, facilitated by the partnership with the FPA.

Gilbert highlighted the importance of this new facility for Tier 1 contractors involved in large and complex projects, ensuring a high level of assurance and conflict-free testing.

FPA’s perspective on the partnership

Dr Gavin Dunn, Managing Director of the FPA, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “I’m thrilled to be moving forward with this collaboration which expands our fire resistance testing services into a new market segment and complements our existing partnership with UL Solutions.”

Dunn underscored the importance of this step in building a trusted industry ecosystem, ensuring safe buildings through scientific proof and impartial testing of construction details and systems.

He also highlighted the investment in two furnaces at the FPA’s laboratory, which will support new clients in ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Technical capabilities of the new lab

The new facility will feature large-scale and smaller-scale vertical furnaces capable of reaching temperatures in excess of 1000°C.

These furnaces can test a range of fire resistance standards for various product types, including building construction components, fire door sets, walls and partitions, glazing, linear joint seals, and penetration seals.

S&T showcases innovations at World Fire Congress during May campaign

by Featured NewsResearch

Honouring first responders in May

May is dedicated to honouring and celebrating first responders, beginning with the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial ceremony and National Police Week, and culminating with the 50th anniversary of National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week.

The Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is recognising the critical work of emergency responders, acknowledging their sacrifices and advancing technology to enhance their safety and effectiveness.

As reported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate, the inaugural World Fire Congress, hosted in Washington, D.C. by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and the National Fallen Firefighter Association, brought together delegates from 56 nations and two multilateral organisations.

The event aimed to establish a global fire service leadership network.

Technology showcase at World Fire Congress

S&T showcased first responder technology at the World Fire Congress.

A memorial service for fallen firefighters included participation from FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell.

Discussions on emerging global fire challenges, such as structure fires, climate change impacts, and firefighter health and safety, were facilitated by S&T team members, guiding multilateral collaboration for the next two years.

Additionally, S&T hosted the World Fire Congress Technology Showcase, highlighting innovative solutions for global fire services.

The showcase featured mini panels on situational awareness during structure fires, building resilience against climate change, and improving firefighter health and safety.

Innovations for first responder safety

Several key innovations were presented at the technology showcase:

  • The C-THRU Real-Time Indoor Visualisation System, a helmet-mounted device, helps firefighters detect exit routes quickly in smoke-filled environments.
  • The wildland fire respirator offers significant protection for wildland firefighters, featuring a replaceable filter and a rechargeable battery.
  • The beta wildfire detection sensor technology, leveraging Artificial Intelligence, provides early warning capabilities to safeguard communities from wildfires.
  • It will be deployed across the Hawaiian Islands, with pilots expanding to Canada, California, Colorado, and Tennessee.
  • The POINTER geolocation tracking solution, developed in partnership with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, allows responders to pinpoint exact locations, including the specific floor in a building.
  • The H2Rescue truck, a hydrogen fuel cell/battery-powered disaster relief vehicle, can provide power for up to 72 hours without refuelling.

Continued collaboration and future developments

S&T said it is committed to ongoing collaboration with the USFA and the global fire service community.

Upcoming initiatives include a podcast series featuring the USFA and discussions on wildland wildfire sensors.

S&T is encouraging first responders and interested parties to visit their First Responders Capability web page for more information on support and advancements in technology.

Draft digital and cyber security fire standard open for public consultation

by Featured NewsResearch

Digital and cyber security fire standard consultation now open

The Fire Standards Board has officially released the draft Digital and Cyber Security Fire Standard for public consultation.

Developed by a collaboration of subject matter experts, including Fire and Rescue Service ICT Managers, Home Office specialists, and representatives from the National Fire Chiefs Council Digital, Technology and Cyber Board, the standard aims to enhance digital safety within fire and rescue services.

The Board seeks comprehensive feedback from all Fire and Rescue Services, to whom the standard will directly apply, as well as from other stakeholders through an online consultation questionnaire.

The deadline for submitting feedback is Monday, 17 June 2024.

How to participate in the consultation

Stakeholders wishing to participate in the consultation are provided with a consultation pack, which includes the draft standard and a set of questions that can be reviewed in advance.

Responses can be entered online, and while it is not mandatory to answer all questions, contributions from areas of personal interest or expertise are welcomed.

When ready, respondents can begin the consultation survey, which has been designed to collect a wide range of views on the proposed standard.

What happens next?

Following the consultation period, all feedback will be considered, and any significant revisions to the standard may prompt a further consultation phase.

Ultimately, the standard will undergo a quality assurance process before being formally proposed for approval by the Fire Standards Board.

If further information is needed during the consultation process, participants can contact the Fire Standards Board via the provided email: fsb@nfcc.org.uk.

Considerations and notes

It is noted that some hyperlinks within the draft standard or to other guidance sections may not function until publication.

The draft also includes pertinent legislation, allowing for suggestions on any additional legal considerations during the consultation.

IFSJ comment

The draft Digital and Cyber Security Fire Standard represents a proactive approach by the Fire Standards Board to address the specific needs of digital safety within the fire and rescue community.

This consultation process demonstrates the Board’s commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement in developing standards that are both effective and practical.

By incorporating feedback from a broad spectrum of experts and stakeholders, the Board ensures that the final standards will be well-rounded and robust, reflecting the latest in digital safety requirements and best practices.