The two fire risks the NFPA says the world must face now

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsSafety

NFPA explores global fire safety lessons and EV fire risks at Intersec Saudi Arabia

Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 hosted two major sessions led by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), addressing global fire safety lessons and emerging risks associated with electric vehicles (EVs).

The discussions took place during the Fire Protection & Technology Summit at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC), part of the three-day exhibition.

Jim Pauley, NFPA President and Chief Executive Officer, led a dedicated NFPA Day exploring how lessons from international fire incidents such as the 2017 Grenfell Tower tragedy continue to shape safety frameworks.

Mike Brunzell, NFPA Vice President of Global Business Development, presented research on EV fire dynamics and outlined the association’s work to advance standards and training around battery and infrastructure safety.

The sessions formed part of the event’s goal to connect international expertise with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasises safety, sustainability and resilience across large-scale development projects.

NFPA Day addresses lessons from global fire events

NFPA Day, held during day two of the Fire Protection & Technology Summit, opened with a reflection by Jim Pauley on the continuing impact of the Grenfell Tower fire in London.

The session also examined the Ghost Ship warehouse fire in Oakland, California, and the Marco Polo high-rise fire in Honolulu, Hawaii, highlighting the importance of coordinated global fire safety frameworks.

Jim Pauley, NFPA President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “The ecosystem is a framework that defines the elements necessary to create and maintain an effective safety environment.

“The interconnected components mean that the failure of a single element can compromise the entire system, resulting in deaths, injuries, and property loss.”

He explained that the NFPA’s Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem provides a model for shared responsibility across key areas including government accountability, code development, safety investment and emergency preparedness.

Pauley links global safety progress to Saudi Vision 2030

Pauley said: “We live in an era of innovation, but innovation without safety is a risk we cannot afford.

“To do this work, and to do it well, we have to see what’s coming, and we have to remember what came before.”

He added: “Saudi Vision 2030 is a bold and ambitious plan to transform the Kingdom’s economy and to elevate its global stature.

“It envisions a diversified economy that’s driven by innovation and sustainability.

“Central to that vision is a world-class infrastructure that meets high safety standards.

“Leadership will ensure that all of the cogs of the ecosystem operate in a manner that protects people and property from current and emerging fire, electrical, and life safety risks.”

Pauley’s comments reflected NFPA’s support for Saudi Arabia’s efforts to align development goals with international safety frameworks.

NFPA Day was curated by NFPA and chaired by Zahi Daher, the association’s Country Manager in Saudi Arabia, and featured contributions from government and industry representatives.

Intersec Saudi Arabia brings global and regional stakeholders together

Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “At Intersec Saudi Arabia, we aim to provide a platform where global expertise meets local ambition.

“The sessions on day two at the Fire Protection and Technology Summit have outlined how the Kingdom and wider region can build a safer, stronger and more resilient built future.”

Throughout the event, exhibitors displayed fire protection innovations including containerised pump houses from Waterfall Pumps, drone and AI-based safety systems from Enterprise Aeronex, and fire suppression technologies from Rapidrop Global.

The event was organised by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and in association with the General Directorate of Civil Defense.

Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “Intersec Saudi Arabia is the only trade event in the Kingdom which enables attendees to make valuable connections, strike lucrative deals and stay at the forefront of the fire, safety and security industry.”

NFPA addresses EV growth and new fire risks in Riyadh

In a separate session, Mike Brunzell examined the relationship between EV adoption and evolving fire risks in high-density environments such as parking structures and mixed-use buildings.

Mike Brunzell, NFPA Vice President of Global Business Development, said: “One of the major concerns we face is the risk of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries.

“While the data shows us that EV fires occur less frequently than fires in gas or diesel-powered vehicles, the research also shows that when they do occur, they can present unique and difficult challenges including longer burn durations, high heat release, toxic gases, re-ignition risks and significant water demand for suppression.”

Citing International Energy Agency (IEA) data showing global EV sales exceeding 17 million in 2024, Brunzell outlined how the NFPA’s Fire Protection Research Foundation has been studying vehicle fire dynamics, suppression and ventilation to inform standards and best practice.

Fire codes evolve to meet emerging safety challenges

Brunzell emphasised that codes and standards must keep pace with technology advances.

He said: “It is through the development of our codes and standards, research initiatives and training programmes that NFPA is proactively working to provide the guidance and the resources needed by fire protection professionals, property owners and policymakers to ensure the integration of EV infrastructure safety strategies.”

During his presentation, Brunzell highlighted key NFPA standards including NFPA 88A (Standard for Parking Structures), which requires sprinkler protection, and NFPA 855 (Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems).

He also referenced the NFPA 800 Battery Safety Code, currently in development, which aims to address safety challenges related to emerging battery technologies.

Intersec Saudi Arabia hosts over 400 exhibitors and 100 speakers

Riham Sedik said: “Intersec Saudi Arabia provides a critical platform for conversations like this.

“By connecting global expertise with regional ambition, the industry can ensure that as EV adoption grows, fire safety strategies can remain one step ahead.”

The 7th edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia featured more than 400 exhibitors and over 100 international speakers across two CPD-certified conference programmes – the Fire Protection & Technology Summit and the Future Security Summit.

Bilal Al Barmawi added: “By bringing together industry experts, regional leaders and innovative solutions across the show floor, Intersec Saudi Arabia helps to ensure that our communities are better prepared to meet both current and future safety challenges, which is particularly important as the Kingdom undertakes ambitious infrastructure development.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The sessions led by Jim Pauley and Mike Brunzell at Intersec Saudi Arabia provided practical insights for professionals involved in fire engineering, system installation, regulation and emergency response.

Fire protection engineers and building code specialists can draw on NFPA’s Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem to inform compliance strategies within the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 development framework.

Fire service leaders and incident commanders may find the emphasis on collaboration between authorities and organisations relevant to operational planning and post-incident analysis.

For engineers, risk assessors and safety officers working in infrastructure or transport, the discussions on EV fire behaviour and NFPA standards such as NFPA 88A and NFPA 855 highlight the technical considerations for designing and managing safe charging and storage environments.

Fire protection upgrades planned for 30 Edinburgh tower blocks under new contract

by Featured NewsPassiveProjectsSafety

City of Edinburgh Council awards £61 million fire protection contract to Harmony Fire

Council approves major fire protection investment

The City of Edinburgh Council has awarded a £61 million fire protection contract to Harmony Fire.

The contract covers 30 multi-storey residential buildings in the city centre.

Harmony Fire said the project forms part of a wide-ranging fire safety upgrade programme.

The company confirmed that the works will be delivered through the Prosper Passive Fire Safety Framework.

According to Harmony Fire, this makes it one of the largest internal fire safety upgrade schemes of its kind in the UK.

Programme to enhance fire safety across city housing

Harmony Fire will deliver a series of fire protection measures across the affected buildings.

The works will include upgrading entrance, communal and ancillary doorways.

The company will also carry out improvements to fire stopping, compartmentation and mechanical services.

The upgrades are part of the council’s wider effort to futureproof its residential property portfolio.

Partnership builds on existing collaboration

Harmony Fire said this latest contract builds on its established relationship with the City of Edinburgh Council.

Previous work included the installation of 60-minute (FD60) compliant fire-rated door sets in other residential sites.

Amos Thomas, Pre-Construction Director at Harmony Fire, commented on the council’s approach: “By embarking on one of the largest internal fire safety investment programmes of its type across the UK, the City of Edinburgh Council is making clear its commitment to providing safe and secure homes for residents.

“It also allows the council to fast-track this critical improvement scheme through the Prosper framework.

“This approach maximises procurement efficiencies, facilitating vital early contractor engagement and setting the conditions for best value and project success from the outset.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This contract will be of particular relevance to fire-protection contractors, installation specialists and local authority housing officers.

The City of Edinburgh Council’s use of the Prosper Passive Fire Safety Framework provides a practical example of large-scale procurement and delivery of fire safety upgrades across residential properties.

For contractors and consultants, the project demonstrates the scope of coordinated fire-protection programmes that integrate multiple measures, including door upgrades, compartmentation and fire stopping.

For engineers and building services professionals, it illustrates how mechanical systems are being upgraded alongside passive fire protection to improve overall safety in multi-storey residential buildings.

The warning London Fire Brigade wants every e-bike rider to hear

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

E-bike and e-scooter fires reach record high in London

London Fire Brigade (LFB) has reported a record rise in e-bike and e-scooter fires in 2025.

According to the Brigade, 165 incidents were recorded between January and September, marking a 28% increase on the same period last year.

Of these, 134 involved e-bikes.

If this rate continues for the remainder of the year, London is expected to surpass 200 e-bike and e-scooter fires in a single year for the first time.

The Brigade described the growing number of fires as an urgent safety concern for the capital.

Fatal e-bike fire in Wood Green among recent incidents

In June, a 30-year-old woman died following a fire caused by an e-bike battery failure at a bedsit on Lordship Lane, Wood Green.

The victim, identified as Eden Abera Siem, was rescued from the property by firefighters and later died in hospital.

LFB’s Fire Investigation Team found that the blaze most probably originated from a charging lithium-ion battery pack for an e-bike.

It was the fourth fatal e-bike fire recorded in London and the first since 2023.

In all four cases, the person who died did not own or use the e-bike involved.

Multiple severe e-bike fires reported across the capital

The Brigade said several other serious e-bike and e-scooter fires had occurred in recent months.

In Putney High Street, a man suffered severe burns on Monday 22 September after a converted e-bike battery caught fire while charging.

Four days earlier, a woman in Downham sustained serious injuries after jumping from a first-floor window to escape a fire caused by a charging e-bike battery.

In August, another lithium-ion battery fire in a flat in Lewisham left one woman hospitalised with life-threatening injuries, though she later recovered.

In June, around 80 firefighters attended a large blaze at a block of flats in North Kensington.

Nine people were rescued from the building, where investigators concluded that a trike-style scooter battery had failed.

Unsafe products linked to rise in battery failures

According to LFB, many of the fires have been linked to second-hand or non-compliant batteries and chargers bought from online marketplaces.

The Brigade said that poorly built, fake or damaged batteries are at particular risk of failure when charged.

It added that batteries or chargers sold online are not always subject to the same regulatory checks as those sold through high-street retailers.

The Brigade has repeatedly urged the public to avoid using non-approved e-bike conversion kits and to follow safety advice when charging.

#ChargeSafe campaign calls for wider support

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection Pamela Oparaocha said: “We continue to see the devastating consequences of e-bike and e-scooter fires in London.

“Our thoughts are with the family of Eden as well as all those who have been impacted by fires in recent years.

“Fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters are worryingly common in London.

“Since the beginning of 2023, we have attended a fire, on average, every other day, and some of these fires have destroyed homes and claimed lives.

“We launched our #ChargeSafe campaign in 2023 to highlight the fire risks with e-bikes and e-scooters; however the rising number of incidents we attend clearly demonstrate the urgent need for further awareness to help protect lives and avoid future tragedies.”

Brigade seeks action from gig economy companies

The Brigade said it plans to write to companies including Uber Eats, Just Eat and Deliveroo to encourage them to share e-bike safety advice with riders.

It noted that gig economy workers are among those at higher risk, particularly those living in shared accommodation where charging often takes place indoors.

Oparaocha said: “Everything possible must be done to help people understand the risks we know exist and the steps they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

“We’ve been pleased to work with organisations such as London Trading Standards and Deliveroo to share advice directly to e-bike riders.

“But these events have demonstrated the dangers people are exposing themselves and others to when it comes to their e-bikes in particular.”

Government regulation welcomed amid safety concerns

Oparaocha added: “Consumers should be protected from being exposed to dangerous, faulty or poorly-built products.

“As part of our #ChargeSafe campaign, we called on the Government to introduce much-needed regulation for online marketplaces.

“We are pleased that the Product Regulation & Metrology Act has been granted Royal Assent and have advised the Government on how they could strengthen the legislation, so that it better regulates unsafe and particularly poor quality or non-compliant lithium battery products being sold on online marketplaces.

“We look forward to working closely with the Government as the regulation develops to ensure it is robust in protecting people from unsafe products and the unique fire risks they present.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The rise in e-bike and e-scooter fires in London highlights the need for fire investigation and prevention teams to remain alert to lithium-ion battery hazards.

For building safety officers and property managers, the frequency of domestic charging fires reinforces the importance of clear tenancy guidance on battery storage and charging practices.

Electrical engineers and risk assessors can draw on LFB’s findings to inform inspection standards and identify non-compliant battery systems.

Procurement and compliance teams working with delivery or fleet operators may also need to review supplier verification processes for chargers, batteries and conversion kits purchased through online platforms.

Why Traffic Group Signals turned to S Jones for safer battery charging

by Featured NewsProjectsSafety

S Jones Containers develops safe battery charging solution for Traffic Group Signals

Container conversion specialist S Jones Containers has completed a custom-built battery charging facility for Traffic Group Signals.

The project was designed to provide a secure and compliant space to charge lead acid batteries at the manufacturer’s new site.

Traffic Group Signals required a solution for charging Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) batteries that power its traffic light systems.

Because hydrogen gas can be released during the charging process, the risk of fire or explosion made it impossible to insure a facility within the new building.

S Jones Conversions was therefore commissioned to design a standalone, containerised solution that could be installed away from the main premises and allow emergency service access if needed.

Design engineers develop tailored two-compartment system

The conversion team at S Jones worked closely with Traffic Group Signals to create a system that met all operational and safety requirements.

The design used a 20ft high cube side-opening ISO shipping container, adapted by S Jones engineers at its dedicated workshop.

A fire alarm system was integrated with a relay link to a contactor safety circuit, cutting power to the charging compartment automatically in the event of an alarm or manual e-stop activation.

The company’s patented Contain-a-Lock system was installed to add security.

The unit was divided into two sections using a fire-rated, gas-sealed bulkhead.

The smaller section houses standard charging equipment, while the larger compartment contains bespoke racking to hold up to 48 12v VRLA batteries.

Each rack position includes dummy DC charging connectors to keep cables clear when loaded by forklift truck.

Ventilation and safety systems meet British Standard requirements

All construction and installation followed BS EN IEC 62485-2:2018, the Safety Requirements for Secondary Batteries and Battery Installation.

S Jones engineers calculated the highest possible hydrogen emission rate based on full simultaneous charging of all 48 batteries.

Based on this modelling, the team installed a ventilation system incorporating ATEX Zone 1 lighting and an ATEX Zone 1 fan-forced air design.

A secondary safety fan was added to ensure hydrogen levels would remain below explosion limits even in the event of a fan failure.

The ATEX ventilation circuit operates automatically whenever any of the 48 chargers is switched on.

Collaboration ensures technical compliance and project delivery

Andrew Nicholls, Head of Conversions at S Jones Containers, said: “As with every project we undertake, every detail here was carefully considered by our in-house design engineers to make sure the unit perfectly met the criteria from a safety and usability perspective.

“It also allowed the customer’s fire alarm to connect fully to its existing battery management system for remote monitoring.

“The positioning of the DC cables was such that in the event of forklift truck damage to an individual cable, it could be quickly replaced to minimise plant downtime.

“We pride ourselves on providing a solution that goes beyond meeting regulations and which ticks all the boxes for our customers.”

Mark Hutchinson, Director at The Traffic Group, commented: “The design and construction of a bespoke battery charging facility was new ground for Traffic Group Signals.

“S Jones provided us with advice on the design and technical aspects of our proposed unit, having listened to our original requirements.

“They guided us through the options available to us, to arrive at a design that not only fulfilled our needs but complied to all the relevant safety standards.

“They involved us throughout the process and completed the unit to the agreed schedule.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Battery charging environments are high-risk areas where hydrogen gas emissions can lead to fire or explosion if not managed correctly.

This case shows how containerised systems designed to BS EN IEC 62485-2:2018 can provide compliant, isolated charging facilities for industrial and manufacturing sites.

The project highlights the practical use of ATEX-rated equipment, fire-rated bulkheads and automated ventilation circuits in reducing ignition hazards.

Fire safety engineers, risk assessors and facility managers working with battery storage and charging systems can take reference from this installation’s design, which integrates active fire detection, automatic shutdown, and gas-safe ventilation control.

The approach may inform future planning and insurance compliance for facilities using lead acid or other energy storage technologies.

Mr Beast explains fire precautions following controversy over burning building stunt

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Mr Beast faces backlash over $500,000 fire stunt video

YouTube creator Mr Beast has faced criticism following the release of a video featuring a stuntman escaping from a burning building for a $500,000 prize.

The 25-minute video, titled Would You Risk Dying For $500,000?, was published on Saturday 27 September. As of October 1st it has reached over 50 million views.

It shows a professional stunt performer completing a sequence of fire-based challenges, including jumping through flames, escaping explosive traps and freeing himself from a burning room.

The video opens with the participant tied to a chair inside a smoke-filled space surrounded by fire, from which he must escape to win the prize.

Mr Beast outlines safety measures after video release

Mr Beast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, said the production team took extensive precautions before and during filming.

He stated that each challenge was tested by several professionals, with firefighters, paramedics and divers present on set.

The creator explained that emergency vehicles, including a fire truck and ambulance, were on standby throughout filming.

He also confirmed that a professional pyrotechnics crew managed the controlled fires and that multiple suppression systems were available in case of an emergency.

Donaldson wrote online: “We had professionals test this extensively and the guy in the video as stated is a professional stunt man. I take safety more serious than you could ever imagine.”

He added that ventilation systems removed smoke from the set and that a kill switch could immediately cut off the flames.

Online criticism follows viral fire escape video

Despite the safety explanations, many social media users criticised the video.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “I don’t care if the fire is controlled or how many safety crew members he has ready, this is just dangerous and seems psychopathic.”

Another user, identifying as a firefighter, said: “As a firefighter, I can feel the heat just looking at this video. MrBeast, that was the dumbest idea you and your crew ever had.”

The post quickly gained widespread attention online, with readers on X adding context clarifying that the participant was a trained professional and that the fire was controlled through safety systems.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The incident highlights how controlled fire environments are increasingly used in large-scale entertainment productions.

Fire safety professionals, fire engineers and pyrotechnic specialists may view this case as a reminder of the technical and procedural demands of conducting controlled burns safely.

Ensuring the presence of qualified firefighters, medical personnel and suppression systems aligns with established industry practice for high-risk filming scenarios.

Such productions rely heavily on fire-protection system design, emergency planning and ventilation control to minimise risk during fire simulations.

As the use of fire effects expands across film and digital media, the event reinforces the importance of oversight and professional involvement in managing life-safety hazards in controlled conditions.

The key questions behind HSE’s competence consultation

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearchSafety

Industry Competence Committee opens consultation on competence management expectations

Consultation launched on guidance for competence management

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced that the Industry Competence Committee (ICC) has opened a consultation on its new guidance document Setting Expectations for Competence Management.

The consultation opened on Thursday 25 September 2025 and will close at 23:59 on Thursday 6 November 2025.

The ICC was formed under the Building Safety Act 2022 to advise the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and industry on improving competence across the built environment.

The new guidance outlines what organisations should do to meet competence management requirements set out in Part 2A of the Building Regulations 2010 and The Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc.) (England) Regulations 2023.

It aims to clarify what good competence management looks like for both individuals and organisations involved in design, construction and building management.

Guidance applies to a wide range of organisations

According to the ICC, the document applies to organisations carrying out design or building work in all types of buildings, as well as those managing buildings, particularly higher-risk buildings (HRBs).

The guidance builds on feedback from a previous industry consultation held in May 2025.

It sets out broad expectations for how competence should be managed and identifies common elements and principles relevant to all organisations.

Feedback sought on clarity and usefulness of principles

The ICC said it is seeking feedback from industry on whether the principles outlined will help in developing competence management processes and whether they are understandable.

Following publication, the ICC plans to build on the guidance by developing practical case studies and examples to assist organisations.

The consultation also invites views on how these case studies and examples could best support implementation within the sector.

How to respond to the consultation

Responses can be submitted via an online survey, by email or by post to the HSE’s offices at Redgrave Court in Bootle, Merseyside.

The ICC stated that all responses must be received before the deadline of 23:59 on 6 November 2025.

The HSE confirmed that once the consultation closes, it will review all feedback and may refine the guidance document further before publication.

It also plans to develop additional practical resources for industry use.

Confidentiality and data protection considerations

The HSE said information provided in response to the consultation may be subject to publication or disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA), the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR).

Respondents are asked to make any confidentiality requests explicit within their submissions.

The HSE stated that all personal data will be processed in accordance with GDPR, with disclosures made only in line with the regulations.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This consultation will be relevant for fire engineers, building control professionals, facilities managers and contractors responsible for design, construction and management of higher-risk buildings.

The ICC guidance directly links to legal obligations under the Building Regulations 2010 and the Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc.) (England) Regulations 2023.

Fire safety officers and consultants involved in compliance or safety case preparation for high-rise residential buildings may find the document particularly important for understanding regulatory expectations.

Organisations involved in competence assessment, training or certification within the fire and safety sector could also use the consultation period to shape how competence management standards evolve under the Building Safety Act framework.

Industry Competence Committee opens consultation on competence management expectations: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a consultation on the Industry Competence Committee’s (ICC) guidance document Setting Expectations for Competence Management, which runs from 25 September to 6 November 2025.

The ICC, formed under the Building Safety Act 2022, advises the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and industry on competence improvement in the built environment.

The guidance applies to organisations involved in design, construction or building management, particularly those managing higher-risk buildings (HRBs).

It sets out expectations for competence management under Part 2A of the Building Regulations 2010 and The Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc.) (England) Regulations 2023.

Feedback is being sought on whether the principles outlined are clear and useful for developing competence management processes.

Responses can be submitted online, by email or by post before 23:59 on 6 November 2025.

This article contains information from the following source: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE)