As e-mobility devices become more common, lithium-ion battery fires are creating a rapidly evolving global challenge that’s testing the limits of fire prevention and response, writes Duncan J. White
Is the Fire Service losing the battle against e-mobility charging fires? Electric scooters and bikes have revolutionised urban transportation — they are clean, compact, and affordable.
But as their lithium-ion batteries enter homes and high-rises, the global fire sector faces a rising and unpredictable threat: charging-related fires that develop with unprecedented speed and ferocity.
A rapidly escalating threat
Fire services worldwide report a steep rise in incidents linked to e-mobility charging.
When a lithium-ion cell fails, temperatures can exceed 1,000°C in seconds, releasing toxic gases and triggering violent explosions.
In testing, complete flashover has occurred in under a minute, leaving virtually no time for occupants to escape or responders to act.
These fires behave unlike conventional domestic blazes – they are chemical, fast, and extraordinarily difficult to control once started.
Why firefighters are struggling
Four factors explain the mounting challenge:
Speed and volatility: Thermal runaway can occur before alarms activate, making early intervention nearly impossible.
Hidden ignition: Batteries often smoulder internally without warning until they rupture.
Unsafe charging: Many fires involve cheap or incompatible chargers purchased online.
Domestic exposure: Charging in bedrooms or hallways places ignition sources directly in escape routes.
A global systemic gap
The e-mobility boom has outpaced regulations.
Building codes and product standards were never designed for high-energy batteries in domestic settings.
Few jurisdictions enforce consistent safety certification for chargers or storage.
In dense urban housing, users often charge indoors overnight – a practice now known to carry catastrophic risk.
Public awareness campaigns have begun, but understanding remains limited, and misinformation about “safe charging” persists online.
What the fire sector must do next
Regaining control will require global collaboration.
Fire agencies, regulators, and manufacturers must align around:
Harmonised safety standards for batteries and chargers.
Shared data to identify high-risk models early.
Public education promoting safe charging habits – certified equipment, daylight charging, and separation from living spaces.
Specialised training and suppression research for lithium-ion incidents.
The fire service is not losing the battle – but it is fighting on a new front.
As e-mobility reshapes cities, lithium-ion batteries will remain integral to modern life.
The challenge is not elimination, but adaptation.
Only by uniting standards, science, and public awareness can the fire community prevent today’s convenience from becoming tomorrow’s catastrophe.
John Munno, Director of Energy Risk Engineer, explains how nitrogen generation technology improves safety, efficiency and compliance in modern energy facilities
The energy sector encompasses a range of high-value, mission-critical assets vulnerable to fire risks, including energised electrical equipment (Class C per NFPA 2010), flammable liquids and gases (Class B) and ordinary combustibles (Class A).
Facilities such as power substations, transformer enclosures, battery storage rooms and control cabinets require fire suppression solutions that are non-conductive, residue-free and safe for sensitive electronics.
Inert gas systems, particularly those based on nitrogen (IG-100), extinguish fires by reducing oxygen concentrations to below 15% while maintaining breathable levels above 10%, making them ideal for these applications.
High-pressure cylinder-based systems have dominated this space for decades, storing compressed nitrogen in steel cylinders released via solenoid valves and piping networks.
However, emerging technologies like the N2 Gen by DSPA – a non-pressurised, electrically initiated nitrogen generator – provide innovative alternatives.
By generating nitrogen on-demand through controlled decomposition of a solid compound, N2 Gen eliminates many limitations of cylinder systems.
This paper explores these advantages, drawing on technical specifications and performance data to demonstrate N2 Gen’s suitability for energy-related risks.
How cylinder-based systems operate
High-pressure cylinder-based systems store nitrogen or inert gas mixtures (e.g., IG-100, IG-55, or IG-541) in seamless steel cylinders pressurised to 200-300 bar (2,900-4,350 psi).
Upon fire detection, a control panel signals the release of gas through discharge nozzles via fixed piping, flooding the protected enclosure to achieve design concentrations (typically 40-52% by volume for nitrogen, equivalent to 12-15% oxygen reduction).
Key features include:
Rapid Discharge: Full release in 60-120 seconds, depending on system size.
Distribution: Requires engineered piping for even agent dispersal.
Applications: Widely used in data centres, electrical rooms and energy facilities for total flooding protection.
While effective, these systems involve challenges such as high initial costs for cylinders and piping, space-intensive storage and safety risks from high-pressure vessels, which can rupture under impact or corrosion.
How the N2 Gen system works
The N2 Gen by DSPA is a fixed fire suppression generator designed for enclosed environments, producing pure nitrogen (IG-100) through an irreversible chemical reaction.
Housed in a stainless-steel enclosure, it contains a solid propellant that, upon electrical activation from a fire detection panel, an initiator triggers decomposition, generating nitrogen gas that passes through a multi-layer filter/cooler to remove particulates and cool the output.
Agent Output: Scalable based on generator size, achieving oxygen reduction below 13% in enclosures that retain gas for at least 10 minutes.
Placement: Can be installed directly inside the protected area (no piping needed) or externally with optional hoses.
Outer Casing: Provides thermal clearance (air gap) to limit surface temperatures to 75°C for personnel and 200°C for combustibles, with perforations for even gas distribution.
Certifications: Tested for Class A, B and C fires per EN 2 and NFPA 2010 standards; suitable for unoccupied energy assets like industrial units and storages.
Limitations: Irreversible activation; not for deep-seated fires or oxidising materials.
N2 Gen’s design ensures clean, transparent, non-conductive discharge with no residue, preserving visibility and equipment integrity – critical for energy applications.
Comparing N2 Gen and cylinder designs
The N2 Gen system’s solid propellant technology offers significant benefits over cylinder-based systems, particularly for energy-related risks where space is constrained, reliability is paramount and rapid response minimises operational disruptions.
Enhanced safety
High-pressure cylinders pose inherent risks, including potential rupture from mechanical damage, corrosion, or over-pressurisation, which could lead to explosive failure in seismic or impact-prone energy sites.
N2 Gen operates at ambient pressure until activation, eliminating these hazards.
Its hermetically sealed stainless-steel housing ensures a 15-year shelf life without leakage concerns and the generated nitrogen exhaust is non-toxic (primarily N2 with trace CO2 and H2O).
In energy facilities, where personnel may enter intermittently, N2 Gen’s thermal safeguards (e.g., air gap limiting exposure to safe temperatures) provide superior protection compared to cylinder systems, which require secure storage to prevent accidental discharge.
Easier installation in compact sites
Cylinder systems demand substantial infrastructure: multiple heavy cylinders (each 50-100 kg), extensive piping networks and dedicated storage rooms, complicating retrofits in compact energy enclosures like switchgear or battery rooms.
N2 Gen’s lightweight, compact design (25-50% the weight of equivalent cylinder agents) allows direct placement within the risk area, eliminating piping needs and reducing installation time and costs by up to 50%.
For external mounting, flexible hoses suffice.
This modularity is ideal for modular energy assets, such as offshore platforms or containerised substations, where space savings translate to more efficient layouts and easier compliance with tight enclosure standards.
Lower maintenance and cost efficiency
Cylinder systems require ongoing maintenance, including annual inspections, hydrostatic testing every 5 years and periodic refills, incurring high operational expenses – especially in remote energy sites.
N2 Gen has minimal maintenance needs: visual checks and electrical testing of the initiator, with no pressure monitoring or recertification.
Long-term costs are further reduced by avoiding cylinder transport and disposal.
Initial capital outlay for N2 Gen is competitive and its scalability (multiple units for larger volumes) avoids over-sizing, providing ROI through reduced downtime in energy operations where fires can cost millions in lost production.
Superior performance in energy applications
Both systems use nitrogen for oxygen reduction, but N2 Gen’s rapid 5-14 second discharge generates inherent momentum for better distribution in cluttered enclosures, outperforming slower cylinder releases (60+ seconds) that may be hindered by piping friction or venting.
In energy risks – e.g., arc flashes in electrical panels or gas leaks in compressor stations – N2 Gen’s quick action prevents escalation, with testing showing effective suppression at 12% oxygen levels even with internal airflow.
Its filter ensures particle-free output, safeguarding sensitive turbines or transformers from contamination, unlike potential impurities in stored gases.
For hazardous areas (per ATEX Directive), N2 Gen’s non-pressurised nature simplifies approvals.
Environmental and reliability benefits
Cylinder systems contribute to emissions via manufacturing and transport of high-pressure vessels, while N2 Gen’s on-site generation minimises logistics footprints, aligning with sustainability goals in the energy transition.
Reliability is enhanced by N2 Gen’s rugged design (-20°C to +75°C operation, 95% humidity tolerance), resisting corrosion in humid or coastal energy environments where cylinders might degrade.
Post-discharge, N2 Gen leaves no residue, enabling immediate equipment restart – vital for grid stability.
Technical comparison of suppression methods
Traditional high-pressure cylinder systems store extinguishing agents at 200–300 bar, while the N2 Gen by DSPA system operates at ambient pressure (0 bar).
This low-pressure design removes the need for heavy storage vessels and reduces overall system weight by up to 75% for an equivalent agent volume.
The systems also differ in performance and installation.
High-pressure cylinders typically discharge over 60–120 seconds, whereas N2 Gen units complete discharge within 5–14 seconds.
Because N2 Gen systems require no fixed pipework, units can be positioned directly in the protected area, streamlining installation and enabling flexible system design.
Maintenance demands are lower for N2 Gen, limited to visual or electrical inspections, compared with the annual servicing and five-year pressure testing needed for high-pressure systems.
The operational lifespan extends to 15 years, whereas conventional cylinders generally require replacement or retesting after 5–10 years.
In terms of space, high-pressure systems occupy a larger footprint due to cylinders and storage requirements, while N2 Gen offers a compact configuration, providing a practical solution where space efficiency and ease of maintenance are priorities.
Applications in the energy sector
N2 Gen excels in protecting energy infrastructure, such as:
Substations and Switchgear: Direct installation in enclosures guards against electrical faults without residue.
Battery and Transformer Rooms: Rapid response to thermal runaway or oil fires.
Gas Storage Modules: Suppresses Class C gas fires in tight, unoccupied spaces.
Field deployments in industrial energy units demonstrate reduced fire damage and faster recovery compared to cylinder systems.
Final observations
For energy-related fire risks, the N2 Gen by DSPA system surpasses high-pressure cylinder-based alternatives by prioritising safety, simplicity and efficiency.
Its non-pressurised, compact design addresses the sector’s unique challenges – limited space, high reliability demands and cost pressures – while delivering proven nitrogen-based suppression.
As energy infrastructure evolves toward modular and sustainable designs, adopting N2 Gen enables proactive protection, ensuring operational continuity and asset preservation.
Stakeholders in power generation, transmission and storage should evaluate N2 Gen for its transformative potential in fire safety.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned that rising use of lithium-ion batteries in UK homes is outpacing current product safety standards and called for urgent government action to address the resulting fire risks.
In a statement issued on Wednesday 19 November 2025, NFCC said lithium-ion battery fires can be explosive, spread quickly and produce toxic gases with a high risk of reignition.
The organisation warned that these incidents place the public, firefighters, property and the wider environment at increased risk.
NFCC has published new recommendations aimed at strengthening safety across lithium-ion-battery-powered consumer products and related energy technologies.
The council wants ministers to use existing and new regulatory powers to tighten product safety rules, including for items sold online.
It is also calling for better systems to dispose of batteries safely and new investment in research to help fire and rescue services manage these incidents.
NFCC said a coordinated national public information campaign is needed so that people understand how misuse, unsafe charging and product modification can raise the likelihood of lithium-ion battery fires.
Data on growing e-bike and e-scooter fire risks
NFCC reported that lithium-ion batteries are now embedded in a wide range of everyday products, including electric toothbrushes, tools, toys, mobile phones, tablets, laptops and vapes.
They also power personal light electric vehicles (PLEVs) such as e-bikes and e-scooters, as well as electric vehicles (EVs).
While NFCC described these technologies as important for a low-carbon future, it stressed that fires involving lithium-ion batteries are complex, produce toxic and potentially explosive vapours and carry a serious risk of reignition.
According to Prevention of Future Death reports cited by NFCC, at least six fatalities since 2023 have been linked to e-bike and e-scooter fires.
Between January 2021 and September 2023, a search of free-text entries in the Government’s Incident Recording System found 139 fire records that mentioned e-bikes and 124 that referred to e-scooters.
The Government has acknowledged that this dataset may be incomplete, and NFCC believes the true number of lithium-ion battery incidents is higher.
London Fire Brigade attended 179 fires involving e-bikes or e-scooters in 2023 and in 2024 the Office for Product Safety and Standards received reports of 211 such fires, close to half of which occurred indoors.
NFCC noted that reporting to the Office for Product Safety and Standards is voluntary, so these figures are likely to be an underestimate.
Product Safety and Metrology Act powers welcomed
NFCC has linked its lithium-ion battery concerns to the new Product Safety and Metrology Act 2025, which has recently received Royal Assent.
The act gives Government powers to introduce enforceable safety rules for products such as e-bikes and e-scooters, including items sold through online marketplaces.
NFCC said these powers could be used to reduce the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries if they are implemented promptly and effectively.
The council welcomed the legislation but said urgent work is still needed to close existing safety gaps and ensure the powers are used to protect people and firefighters.
NFCC is also asking policymakers to recognise wider fire safety issues linked to emerging energy technologies beyond lithium-ion batteries, covering the full range of new storage and charging systems.
It argued that regulatory frameworks need to be flexible and able to adapt at pace as energy technology changes.
NFCC recommendations on Lithium-ion batteries and wider energy risks
In its Fire Risks in Energy Technologies Position Statements, NFCC set out a series of actions it wants Government and regulators to take.
It called for mandatory product safety rules and third-party testing for personal light electric vehicles.
NFCC also wants online marketplaces to be regulated so that all lithium-ion battery products sold in the UK must meet designated safety standards.
The council recommended a safe, accessible disposal regime for lithium-ion batteries, including damaged units, to reduce the chance of unsafe storage or handling.
It urged updates to Building Regulations guidance so that the fire risks from storing and charging energy technologies in homes and public places are fully addressed.
NFCC said fire and rescue service advice should be considered and responded to when services are consulted on fire safety risks, including comments under the Fire Safety Order during Building Regulations processes.
The council has asked for national public awareness campaigns on the safe use and disposal of lithium-ion-battery-powered products and for ongoing research funding to improve firefighting tactics and training for energy technology incidents.
It also called for better coordination across Government and regular consultation with fire safety specialists to aid long-term risk planning.
NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said the growing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in homes is reshaping the work of fire and rescue services and requires stronger protections from Government and industry.
Phil Garrigan, National Fire Chiefs Council Chair, said: “Lithium-ion batteries are now everywhere in our homes – powering the phones in our pockets, the laptops on our desks, e-scooters, and cordless appliances we use every day.
“But these technologies must not come at the cost of public and firefighter safety.
“The fire risks linked to these familiar products are evolving far faster than the safety standards designed to protect us.
“When things go wrong with lithium-ion batteries the consequences can be devastating, and tragically, lives have already been lost.
“Fire and rescue services are the first line of defence when these batteries fail, facing fires that are incredibly complex and dangerous to tackle.
“They need stronger protection, clear standards, and better tools from government and industry to continue safeguarding people and property as these batteries become ever more common in our homes.”
How NFCC’s lithium-ion battery position could shape practice
NFCC’s call for mandatory product safety rules and third-party testing for personal light electric vehicles could influence how fire and rescue chiefs and senior officers assess risk from e-bikes and e-scooters in their areas.
The focus on regulating online marketplaces and requiring designated safety standards for lithium-ion battery products is directly relevant for standards and certification bodies that advise on conformity and enforcement.
Requests for updated Building Regulations guidance on storing and charging energy technologies in homes and public places could affect building services engineers and facility managers who specify locations for charging points and storage areas.
The emphasis on safe, accessible disposal routes for damaged or end-of-life batteries could change procedures for risk assessors, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors who frequently manage equipment removal and waste streams.
NFCC’s call for investment in research on firefighting tactics and training for energy technology incidents could shape future work by training officers and instructors as operational guidance for lithium-ion battery fires develops.
Twiceme Technology has partnered with SCHUBERTH to integrate digital safety data into professional firefighting helmet designs launched in Germany on Tuesday 18 November 2025.
The company said the collaboration marks its move into the firefighting market from its existing focus on digital safety for jobsites and outdoor activities.
According to Twiceme Technology, the integrated system allows users to record equipment health, inspection dates and compliance information directly within the helmet.
The data structure is intended to support tracking of certifications and expiration dates so that helmet condition and documentation remain current.
Twiceme Technology stated that this approach aims to support safety standards, reduce the risk of incidents linked to equipment issues and cut costs by streamlining safety management.
Christian Connolly, Chief Executive Officer of Twiceme Technology, said: “This is a historic step for Twiceme and for the firefighting community.
“We turn to firefighters when we need help the most, yet we rarely think about how dangerous their profession is.
“For the first time, they will have access to integrated digital safety information directly in their helmets, empowering action when seconds matter.”
Digital data built into firefighting helmet range
According to SCHUBERTH, the new F300, F220 and F130 models are the first professional firefighter helmets to include integrated digital safety information technology.
Each helmet is described as a high-performance model for use under extreme thermal stress in structural firefighting, rescue operations and traffic-accident response.
The manufacturer said the shells incorporate HighTemp-Fibre materials designed to resist high temperatures while maintaining impact protection.
All three models are certified to Deutsches Institut für Normung and European Committee for Standardization EN 443: 2008 structural firefighter helmet standards.
SCHUBERTH noted that all three helmets are Type A, with the F220 using a modern three-quarter shell, the F130 retaining a traditional half-shell and the F300 tailored to tasks requiring work overhead or extended upward vision.
Helmet design based on SCHUBERTH experience
SCHUBERTH said its firefighting helmet range draws on its long history of developing protective headgear for professional users in Germany.
The company described the HighTemp-Fibre shells as delivering protection against heat and impact while allowing for comfort and modularity.
Florian Brunck, Head of Business Unit industrial safety and firefighting at SCHUBERTH, said: “Our high-performance firefighter helmets were developed specifically to withstand increased thermal stress and meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
“We’ve always worked to set the benchmark in head protection, and now with Twiceme, we’ve introduced a bridge that connects the firefighter, the equipment, and the responder.”
Availability in Germany and industrial helmet rollout
According to SCHUBERTH, the firefighting helmets featuring Twiceme Technology are now available via authorised SCHUBERTH distributors and firefighting equipment partners in Germany.
The company added that Twiceme Technology has also been integrated into its CROSSGUARD and BOP industrial safety helmets.
These industrial models include functions for logging helmet inspections and keeping records of training certifications for workers.
Both companies direct interested users to their websites for more information about Twiceme-enabled helmets and wider digital safety features.
Operational impact of digital helmet data
Fire and rescue chiefs and senior officers may use this development to assess how digital records embedded in helmets could support fleet-wide oversight of structural firefighting PPE across German crews.
Procurement officers and equipment specifiers may examine whether integrated tracking of inspections, certifications and expiration dates within each helmet can simplify compliance checks and budget planning for helmet replacement cycles.
Standards and certification bodies can reference the DIN and EN 443: 2008 compliance of the F300, F220 and F130 models when reviewing how digital data layers sit alongside established structural firefighter helmet requirements.
Training officers and instructors, particularly in organisations that also deploy CROSSGUARD and BOP industrial helmets, could apply Twiceme-based records to verify that personnel training certifications align with helmet status before operational deployment.
Industrial facility managers responsible for high-risk environments may review the industrial implementations of Twiceme Technology as examples of how helmet-based data can be used to document inspections and workforce training in day-to-day operations.
ZIGURAT hosts Riyadh Local Hub on digital construction
ZIGURAT Institute of Technology has held its first Middle East Local Hub in Riyadh, gathering nearly one hundred professionals, students and alumni to discuss digital transformation and artificial intelligence in the construction sector.
The event took place at Olaya Center under the title “Unlimited Possibilities with Digital Transformation & AI in AEC” and was sponsored by GRAPHISOFT.
According to ZIGURAT, participation exceeded expectations, which it linked to Saudi Arabia’s drive to build digital capabilities in line with Vision 2030.
The institution described the Local Hub format as part of its wider work in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) sector, where it is headquartered in Barcelona and active in 120 countries.
Pau F. Aldomà, CEO of ZIGURAT, opened the event by focusing on local talent development and collaboration with the Saudi ecosystem.
Aldomà said: “This national strategy demands bold ideas, skilled professionals, and strong partnerships.
“At ZIGURAT, we believe that education is the foundation for achieving that future, and we are proud to be an active part of the journey.”
The programme combined panel discussions and networking, with attendees also invited to take part in a raffle linked to a connection-building activity.
Panels address digital transformation in construction delivery
ZIGURAT reported that the first panel, “Digital Transformation in Construction: Rethinking Project Delivery,” examined how digital methods are reshaping project workflows in Saudi Arabia.
Panellists included alumni and ambassadors Hossam Abdulaziz, Dr Omar Dahan and Mohamed Dorra, alongside industry professional Ahmed Fadhl Al Mawla.
The speakers discussed gaps between university teaching and the skills required on construction projects, highlighting the need to align academic content with on-site practice.
According to ZIGURAT, Dahan pointed to the institution’s programmes as a way to supplement university education with content that can be applied immediately on the job site.
Dorra was said to have called for topics such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), artificial intelligence and Digital Twins to be incorporated into university curricula to prepare future professionals.
Dr Omar Dahan, alumnus and ambassador, said: “BIM is the skeleton, AI the brain, and Digital Twins the nervous system of the future of construction.”
The discussion placed particular emphasis on how digital tools can structure information, support coordination and help project teams manage complexity across different phases of construction.
AI seen as tool alongside professional judgement
The second panel, “AI in Construction: Automation and Innovation,” focused on practical applications of artificial intelligence in project management.
The discussion was moderated by alumna Sarah Sakr and featured alumna and ambassador Ahmed Elhadidi, alumna Maged Elhamady and Kamal Bairagdar, Senior Project Manager at Jacobs.
Panel members shared case studies, tools and workflows that they stated are already in use in their organisations.
ZIGURAT said Elhadidi presented a series of AI resources and launched an AI challenge for attendees, which was well received.
Speakers noted that AI can streamline processes and improve efficiency in construction projects when carefully integrated into existing workflows.
At the same time, the panel agreed that some professional decisions should remain with experienced practitioners, prompting a wider exchange on ethics and the limits of automation.
The discussion also addressed the value of emotional intelligence in decision-making and the importance of maintaining human oversight as AI tools become more common.
As part of the agenda, projects from students of the ZIGURAT International Master in BIM Management were showcased, which the institution described as evidence of how its training connects emerging technologies with real-world practice.
Networking underlines ZIGURAT’s AECO community focus
The Local Hub closed with a networking session that used connection cards to structure introductions and exchanges among attendees.
ZIGURAT stated that three prizes were raffled among participants who completed the networking challenge.
The institution highlighted one winner who reported travelling more than 300 kilometres to attend the event for discussion, knowledge sharing and professional networking.
ZIGURAT framed this as an illustration of the commitment shown by its students and alumni to their professional development.
With the Riyadh Local Hub, the institution said it is strengthening its position as a global provider of specialised training for the AECO sector while expanding its presence in the Middle East.
ZIGURAT also reported a shared conclusion from the event that education, collaboration and innovation will remain central to the sector’s transformation and to Saudi Arabia’s urban development and infrastructure goals.
Digital construction skills and implications for safety practice
Professionals involved in design and engineering, such as architects, fire engineering consultants and building services engineers, may need to understand how tools like BIM, artificial intelligence and Digital Twins are being embedded into construction workflows.
For facility managers and project managers overseeing complex assets in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere, the focus on digital project delivery at ZIGURAT’s Local Hub shows how skills in data handling and model-based coordination are becoming part of mainstream construction practice.
Training officers and instructors may view the integration of these topics into ZIGURAT’s International Master in BIM Management, and the call to embed them in university programmes, as a sign that digital competence will be an expectation for new entrants to the sector.
System installers and fire-protection contractors working within digitally managed projects could see practical effects where AI-supported planning and BIM-based coordination shape how information is shared across teams and how project decisions are documented.
The emphasis on maintaining professional judgement and emotional intelligence alongside AI use indicates that, even as automation advances, responsibility for safety-related decisions is still expected to sit with qualified practitioners.
Promat has published Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for 86% of its products sold within the Etex Building Performance UK division, providing third-party verified sustainability data to support passive fire protection specification.
The UK based manufacturer said the move forms part of its ClearChange sustainability programme, which aims to increase transparency for customers using its board products.
According to the company, the published EPDs cover the majority of board products in its current portfolio and give specifiers a basis for comparing options on environmental performance.
Promat stated that the declarations are designed to help customers make more informed choices and, in some cases, reduce the environmental footprint of projects where its products are used.
The company added that EPDs also act as a tool for manufacturers, helping them identify material choices, production stages and supply chain elements that can reduce embodied carbon across their ranges.
EPDs detail embodied carbon and lifecycle data
Promat explained that its EPDs are the result of assessments that are independently verified for impartiality and aligned with ISO 14025 and EN 15804+A2/A1.
The firm said a dedicated internal team works to ensure that its products and technologies are progressively covered by EPDs.
Current EPDs include Promat medium density calcium silicate boards such as PROMATECT, SUPALUX and MASTERBOARD, which are used in building and industrial applications.
The declarations provide upfront embodied carbon figures for the boards and include information on packaging, waste treatment and end-of-life recycling.
Promat reported that this lifecycle approach allows the total embodied carbon of the passive fire protection boards to be evaluated rather than focusing only on initial production.
The company noted that this level of detail is intended to support customers who are working to meet environmental targets alongside fire-protection requirements.
Manufacturing measures support lower environmental impact
Promat said the EPDs also reflect measures taken within its manufacturing facilities to reduce environmental impact.
At its Belgium facility, the company uses a mix of hydropower, local combined heat and power (CHP) and solar energy to help mitigate the impact of the production process.
According to Promat, linking operational energy sources to product declarations gives customers additional context on how the boards are manufactured.
The manufacturer indicated that this information can be relevant for projects where both operational and embodied carbon are being assessed at design stage.
Promat added that its sustainability work is ongoing as part of the wider ClearChange programme.
ClearChange programme and customer support
Duncan Gardiner, Promat Platform Sustainability and Communications Manager, said: “We take our commitment to the environment seriously, and by offering EPDs for most of our current portfolio, we ensure our customers can do the same.
“There are some instances where EPDs are not possible, such as bespoke and complex applications, however, we are able to provide comprehensive support in these instances to ensure that our customers’ needs are met.
“Our ClearChange sustainability program demonstrates how we as a company will tackle sustainability challenges, and EPDs are the first step in ensuring we can make a tangible difference to our environmental impact.
“By delivering clear environmental impact data to support our customers, architects and specifiers, we hope to empower the industry to make informed decisions around sustainability, not only to meet regulations but to invest in a more sustainable construction sector.”
How Promat’s EPDs affect specification decisions
Promat’s publication of EPDs for most of its passive fire protection boards provides architects, fire engineering consultants and building services engineers with verified data that can be used directly in project assessments.
The lifecycle information, including upfront embodied carbon, packaging, waste treatment and end-of-life recycling routes, allows design teams to compare Promat products on environmental impact as well as fire-performance criteria.
For procurement officers, facility managers and fire-protection contractors, the declarations create a common reference point when evaluating board options for tenders or refurbishment projects that must meet corporate sustainability targets.
Risk assessors and system installers can also use the EPD data when providing advice on product selection in buildings where both fire safety and embodied carbon are under scrutiny.
By linking the ClearChange programme to independently verified EPDs that cover 86% of products within the Etex Building Performance UK division, Promat gives project teams information that can feed into building certification schemes and internal reporting processes.
Although bespoke or complex applications may not yet have EPDs, the company’s commitment to providing support in these cases means specifiers still have a route to obtain environmental information for planning purposes.
Wärtsilä Corporation has reported the completion of three major fire safety and explosion tests for its Quantum3 battery energy storage system in a programme designed to show performance under worst-case conditions.
The company said the test campaign covered UL 9540A unit-level testing, Large Scale Fire Testing and proprietary Active Ignition Mitigation System (AIMS) testing.
According to Wärtsilä Corporation, the scenarios were designed to reflect severe fire and explosion conditions and to generate data for manufacturers, first responders, customers and regulators.
The company stated that the combined results confirm Quantum3’s ability to contain thermal runaway events, prevent fire spread between units and mitigate hazards linked to flammable gas build-up in order to protect surrounding communities.
CSA Group, which works in standards development and product testing, inspection and certification, took part in planning the tests and witnessed execution of all three phases as an independent verifier.
Dana Parmenter, Commercial Vice President, Industry, CSA Group, said: “CSA Group was pleased to support Wärtsilä’s fire safety testing program through close collaboration between our North American and Asian teams.
“The strong coordination between teams helped ensure the testing was carried out smoothly and effectively.”
UL 9540A outcomes and large-scale fire results
Wärtsilä Corporation stated that Quantum3 met all required performance criteria during UL 9540A testing, which examined behaviour if a battery cell were to enter thermal runaway.
The results showed that a thermal runaway event in a single cell did not spread to neighbouring modules or enclosures.
The company added that no external flaming occurred during these tests and that no explosion hazards were observed.
In separate Large Scale Fire Testing carried out under CSA/ANSI C800:25, a fire was ignited inside a Quantum3 unit and allowed to burn for more than 22 hours in controlled conditions.
Wärtsilä Corporation reported that the fire remained confined to the initiating unit and did not propagate to adjacent units, even without intervention or water-based fire suppression.
The company stated that these large-scale results support the containment outcomes seen in UL 9540A testing at unit level.
AIMS validation and broader fire safety performance
Wärtsilä Corporation also validated its Active Ignition Mitigation System (AIMS) technology as part of the programme.
According to the company, AIMS is designed to ignite flammable gases at an early stage of a thermal event so that uncontrolled deflagrations are avoided and enclosure integrity is maintained during extreme conditions.
The company described Quantum3 as the most advanced system within its Quantum battery energy storage portfolio and said it provides a fully integrated AC block solution with safety, cybersecurity, energy density and sustainability features.
Wärtsilä Corporation stated that Quantum3 incorporates enhanced fire safety measures, including advanced fire suppression and next-generation thermal management, which it says exceed current global regulatory requirements.
Mishaal SyedNaveed, Product Manager – Fire Protection at Wärtsilä Energy Storage, said: “These results reflect years of engineering innovation and safety-first design.
“By completing all three tests, Quantum3 has proven its best-in-class safety performance, giving our customers and the general public confidence that Wärtsilä systems are ready for the most demanding applications.”
The company added that it plans to continue working with first responders, customers and regulators so that fire safety in battery energy storage keeps pace with rapid deployment worldwide.
Fire safety implications for energy storage stakeholders
The test results for Quantum3 are relevant for equipment specifiers and fire engineering consultants involved in battery energy storage projects where containment of thermal runaway and management of flammable gases are key design considerations.
The combination of UL 9540A unit-level testing and Large Scale Fire Testing under CSA/ANSI C800:25 provides standards and certification bodies with a documented example of how one system performs under both cell-initiated and enclosure-wide fire conditions.
Risk assessors and system installers can draw on the demonstrated ability to limit fire spread between units and to avoid external flaming when evaluating project layouts and separation distances for energy storage installations.
Facility managers responsible for industrial, commercial and public-sector sites that host battery energy storage can use the reported fire suppression and thermal management features as part of their review of equipment options, where compliance with current global regulations is a core requirement.
First responders and emergency planners may use the data generated by Wärtsilä Corporation’s testing to inform incident response planning for locations that deploy Quantum3 or comparable systems designed around containment and gas management.
Regulators and authorities that oversee energy storage safety can reference the described test programme when considering future expectations for fire performance and third-party verification in new or updated guidance.
What the New Zealand union row signals for future emergency response planning
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said it will return to collective bargaining with the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union next week following the union’s withdrawal of a planned one hour strike on Friday 14 November.
Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler said the withdrawal avoided further disruption before bargaining sessions on Monday 17 and Tuesday 18 November.
Stiffler said: “Every time the NZPFU strikes, they compromise public safety.
“We are very pleased communities will not be disrupted again today, and we urge the NZPFU to withdraw its strike notices for Friday 21 and Friday 28 November.
“We had applied for facilitation under urgency with the Employment Relations Authority because of the protracted nature of bargaining and the impact on the public from strike action but today the authority adjourned the hearing until 25 November.
“Fire and Emergency’s goal is, and has always been, to reach a fair, sustainable, and reasonable settlement with the NZPFU. We are doing everything we can to achieve an agreement without disrupting the services communities rely on.
“The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union made a counter proposal which was well outside Fire and Emergency’s bargaining parameters.
“Following a robust and useful discussion, and further testing of possible components of a settlement, the NZPFU tabled a new pay proposal.
“While Fire and Emergency shared with the Union the concern that the proposal was highly likely to be outside of Fire and Emergency’s bargaining parameters, this represents a step forward in negotiations.
“Fire and Emergency is meeting with the NZPFU to continue bargaining on Monday 17 and Tuesday 18 November 2025.
“Any settlement must be sustainable; balance cost of living pressures being faced by individuals alongside fiscal pressures faced by Fire and Emergency and be consistent with the Government Workforce Policy Statement.”
The organisation said it has improved its original pay offer of 5.1% over three years, alongside changes to allowances.
It said this offer aligns with its financial constraints and the Government Workforce Policy Statement.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said the last agreement in 2022 delivered a cumulative wage increase of up to 24% over three years.
The organisation also noted ongoing investment in fleet replacement, stating that 317 trucks have been replaced since 2017 with a further 78 on order.
Wider organisational restructure underway
Separate reporting from RNZ said Fire and Emergency New Zealand is progressing the largest restructure in its eight-year history.
RNZ said a 266-page change proposal outlines plans affecting about 140 roles, with unions warning that loss of support roles could affect emergency response.
RNZ reported that the proposal would remove the five-region structure and reorganise existing districts under new reporting lines.
According to RNZ, Fire and Emergency New Zealand said the restructure is driven by volatile revenue and increasing operational demand linked to climate impacts.
RNZ said firefighters and union representatives raised concerns about reduced support for risk reduction work and pressure on district workloads.
RNZ reported that frontline firefighter roles and 111-call handlers would not be cut.
Reactions from union and sector representatives
RNZ said the Public Service Association estimated the restructure would remove more than 13% of non-firefighter roles.
According to RNZ, the Fire Emergency Commanders Association questioned how regional functions would be absorbed under the new model.
RNZ reported that risk reduction staff, who carry out building checks and oversee evacuation scheme maintenance, expressed concern about diminished preventative capacity.
Next steps in negotiations
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said bargaining will continue on Monday 17 and Tuesday 18 November.
The Employment Relations Authority hearing on facilitation is scheduled to resume on 25 November.
Implications for emergency response planning in New Zealand
The continuation of bargaining between Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union has implications for senior fire officers and emergency managers who rely on stable workforce arrangements.
Pay and conditions for career firefighters affect staffing availability, deployment planning and long-term retention.
These factors can influence how incident commanders allocate resources during emergency events.
The restructure described by RNZ involves changes to district structures and support roles.
These changes could alter how operational leaders receive administrative, training and risk reduction support.
The proposed separation of volunteer and paid firefighter training functions may require adjustments to training delivery models.
Facility managers and building safety professionals may take interest in the future capacity of risk reduction teams.
These teams conduct checks on evacuation schemes and oversee compliance work.
These developments could shape planning assumptions for organisations that coordinate with Fire and Emergency New Zealand during joint response operations.
The September 11, 2001 attacks were one of the darkest days in American history.
Among the thousands of lives lost, 343 firefighters from the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) died during the attacks, along with one firefighter from the New York City Fire Patrol, bringing the total number of firefighters who died on that day to 344.
In the years since, many additional firefighters and first responders have died from illnesses directly linked to exposure at the World Trade Center site, highlighting the long-term sacrifices made by these heroes.
What Happened on September 11, 2001?
On the morning of September 11, 2001, a series of coordinated terrorist attacks were carried out in the United States.
Hijackers flew four commercial airplanes, two of which crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City.
The South Tower collapsed less than an hour after being hit, followed by the North Tower.
A third plane struck the Pentagon, while the fourth, United Flight 93, crashed in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to retake control of the aircraft.
The attacks resulted in widespread devastation and prompted an immediate, massive emergency response.
How Many People Died on 9/11?
Approximately 2,996 people lost their lives as a result of the 9/11 attacks, not including the 19 terrorists involved.
This total includes civilians, law enforcement officers, and firefighters.
In New York City alone, the World Trade Center attacks caused 2,753 deaths, making it the single deadliest terrorist incident in U.S. history.
The FDNY was the primary responder to the World Trade Center attacks.
Firefighters from all five boroughs of New York City, as well as mutual aid companies from nearby areas, rushed to the scene.
Other notable departments and organizations included the New York City Police Department (NYPD), Port Authority Police, and private firefighting units, all of which played crucial roles in evacuation, rescue, and firefighting efforts.
The response was immediate and heroic, with personnel entering collapsing structures to save civilians and fellow first responders.
During the attacks themselves, 343 FDNY firefighters were killed while performing rescue operations and attempting to evacuate the Twin Towers.
These men and women included firefighters of all ranks, from probationary firefighters to chiefs, reflecting the broad participation of the FDNY workforce that day.
Additionally, Keith Roma, a firefighter with the New York City Fire Patrol, also died responding to the scene, which brings some records to cite 344 total firefighter deaths.
Many of these individuals were trapped in the towers when the structures collapsed, illustrating the extreme danger and heroism of the operation.
How Many First Responders Died on 9/11?
Beyond firefighters, other first responders also lost their lives, including 23 police officers and 37 Port Authority officers.
Collectively, the number of first responders who perished that day amounted to approximately 403 individuals, highlighting the extreme risk faced by those on the front lines of the attacks.
How Many Firefighters Have Died from 9/11 Related Illnesses Since the Attack?
Tragically, the toll of 9/11 extends far beyond that single day.
Exposure to toxic dust, smoke, and debris at Ground Zero has resulted in chronic illnesses and cancers among first responders.
As of 2024, over 200 additional FDNY firefighters have died from 9/11-related illnesses, including respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal cancers, and other health complications directly linked to their work at the site.
This ongoing loss underscores the long-term dangers faced by first responders and the need for continued healthcare support and monitoring for those who served during the recovery and cleanup efforts.
The heroism displayed by firefighters and other first responders on 9/11 serves as a lasting testament to courage and selflessness.
Remembering their sacrifices not only honors the fallen but also emphasizes the importance of preparedness, training, and community support for emergency responders.
Memorials, educational programs, and annual ceremonies ensure that their bravery and the lessons of 9/11 continue to be recognized worldwide.
Key Takeaways
343 FDNY firefighters died on 9/11, with an additional firefighter from the Fire Patrol, totaling 344 firefighter deaths on the day.
Thousands more first responders have died in subsequent years due to 9/11-related illnesses.
The FDNY, NYPD, Port Authority Police, and other agencies worked heroically to save lives amid unprecedented chaos.
Ground Zero exposure has long-term health consequences, emphasizing the sacrifices of first responders.
Remembering these heroes helps educate and inspire future generations while highlighting the risks and responsibilities of emergency personnel.
The 9/11 attacks resulted in an immense and lasting loss for firefighters and first responders.
343 FDNY firefighters perished during the attacks, and hundreds more have died since due to illnesses caused by exposure at the World Trade Center site.
Their bravery, sacrifice, and continued impact are a powerful reminder to honor and support those who serve in the fire and rescue professions.
Fire Aware has brought together safety specialists as Fire Aware Educators to support organisations across the supply chain as they respond to recent and upcoming fire safety legislation.
The organisation said these educators are drawn from members with expertise across different aspects of fire safety practice.
They are intended to help those with duties under fire safety law understand their responsibilities in a period of extensive regulatory change.
According to Fire Aware, the new educator role is aimed at designers, main contractors, domestic trades, material suppliers, building management, hotel and leisure operators, commercial and private landlords and local authorities.
Gavin Skelly, Fire Aware CEO, said: “At a time of increasing concern for the safety of the public who use our buildings and spaces, the fire safety industry is under increasing scrutiny and those with a duty of care should understand this is more than a job, it is a vocation.
“We believe there is enough legislation to ensure safety if they are understood and followed.
“We have specialists who can help guide anyone in the supply chain around some of this new legislation because it can be challenging given its complexity and scale.”
Legislative changes driving demand for guidance
Fire Aware highlighted that key changes under the Building Safety Act require data collection for information at defined stages of construction projects.
The organisation also noted recent amendments to Approved Document B.
It pointed to new regulations for Residential Evacuation Plans that are due to come into effect in 2026.
Fire Aware said its specialist members act as technical guidance experts for organisations needing support with these requirements.
The educators are expected to provide training on fire safety and management tailored to the roles and contexts of different duty holders.
Training is designed to reflect the needs of those working in design, construction, product supply, building management and property ownership.
Moral responsibility and culture in the supply chain
Fire Aware described itself as an expanding fire safety industry body with a focus on the moral responsibilities of those working in the fire safety supply chain.
The organisation said this focus covers designers, developers, asset owners, managers and other stakeholders involved in building projects and occupied premises.
It aims to influence culture in the built environment by linking technical compliance with a declared duty of care towards building users.
Fire Aware plans to do this through a series of charters that set out how member companies commit to behave in their work.
The charters are intended to frame how members approach safety decisions, interactions with partners and service delivery.
Fire Aware described itself as a recognised membership body serving the built environment and related sectors with a shared aim of working and trading to best practice standards in the interests of public safety.
Practical relevance for duty holders and specifiers
The introduction of Fire Aware Educators is directly aimed at designers, main contractors, domestic trades and material suppliers who need support in interpreting current fire safety legislation.
These educators may provide training and technical guidance at key points in the design and construction process, helping duty holders understand data collection duties under the Building Safety Act and changes to Approved Document B.
Building management teams, hotel and leisure operators and commercial and private landlords are identified as further groups that can access guidance on Residential Evacuation Plans ahead of the new regulations taking effect in 2026.
Asset owners and managers within the built environment can use the Fire Aware charters as a framework when commissioning work or selecting partners, aligning contractual expectations with declared duty of care commitments.
Local authorities and other public bodies engaging with Fire Aware members will be able to reference the same charters when assessing how suppliers intend to meet best practice standards.
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