Wrexham Mineral Cables maintains Planet Mark certification for environmental commitment

by Featured NewsSustainability

Sustainable initiatives by Wrexham Mineral Cables

Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC), a premier manufacturer of fire survival Mineral Insulated Copper Cables (MICC), has recently been re-awarded the Planet Mark certification.

This recognition underscores WMC’s dedication to sustainable practices in its operations.

Planet Mark, a globally acknowledged sustainability certification, is granted to businesses actively reducing their environmental impact.

For certification, companies must measure their carbon footprint, set ambitious reduction targets, and execute a comprehensive sustainability strategy.

WMC, along with its sister company Tamlite Lighting, a leading UK independent lighting manufacturer, achieved this recertification.

Evidence of WMC’s environmental efforts

To attain the Planet Mark certification, WMC had to provide evidence of its commitment to sustainability.

The company showcased its initiatives, including investments in energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction, materials recycling, and the use of sustainable materials.

WMC’s MICC cable is noted for its sustainability credentials, utilising copper and Magnesium Oxide (MgO), both environmentally friendly materials.

Copper is almost 100% recyclable, and MgO is abundantly available.

This approach to raw materials aligns with the principles of the circular economy, reducing maintenance and replacement needs.

Customer benefits and sustainability perspective

The Planet Mark certification assures customer confidence in WMC’s products, contributing to a greener future.

WMC emphasizes the collective effort with customers and the supply chain in making a positive environmental impact.

The company’s sustainable practices are not merely a statement but are integrated into its business ethos, focusing on reducing waste, carbon emissions, and ecological footprint.

Colin Hughes on WMC’s dedication to sustainability

Colin Hughes, Group Manager at Wrexham Mineral Cables, expressed his pride in the achievement: “Our Planet Mark journey began a few years ago when we first achieved the certification.

“Since then, our commitment to creating a better future for our planet has only grown stronger,” he said.

He highlighted the team’s efforts and the positive environmental impact made, affirming WMC’s leadership in environmental responsibility.

Planet Mark: Recognition of WMC’s sustainability efforts

WMC’s sustainability efforts have been acknowledged in the industry, with nominations at the Made in Wales Award (Sustainable/Ethical Manufacturer of the Year) and the Make UK Manufacturing Awards for the Wales region (Energy and Sustainability category).

Additionally, WMC was a finalist at the Materials Recycling World (MRW) and National Recycling Awards (Circular Economy Initiative – Business Model and Recycling Excellence).

IFSJ Comment

Wrexham Mineral Cables’ recent recertification by Planet Mark demonstrates the company’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

The recognition serves as an affirmation of WMC’s efforts in implementing sustainable initiatives and reducing its ecological footprint.

This achievement reflects the broader industry trend towards environmental responsibility and sustainable development.

By prioritising eco-friendly materials and processes, WMC not only sets an example for other companies in the sector but also contributes to a larger movement towards a more sustainable future.

Their continued dedication to these principles underscores the importance of corporate responsibility in addressing environmental challenges.

UAE launches ‘World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance’: A global initiative to reduce carbon emissions from fires

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsSustainability

In a ground-breaking initiative to combat climate change, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Interior, represented by the General Directorate of Civil Defense in Dubai, has announced the establishment of the World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance.

This global coalition, unveiled during the 28th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP28) in Dubai, aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions resulting from fires worldwide.

Establishment of the alliance

The World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance was officially announced at COP28 during the ‘Eco Readiness’ conference.

This international platform, dedicated to exploring strategies for international collaboration and coordination in firefighting, emphasises the mitigation of environmental consequences of fires.

The alliance is part of the broader International Climate Change Law Enforcement (I2LEC) initiative and aligns with the objectives of COP28.

Global collaboration and objectives: Reducing carbon emissions

The alliance has garnered support from a diverse range of national and international bodies dedicated to firefighting.

Signatories include representatives from over 56 countries, including key figures like His Excellency Lieutenant General Expert Rashid Thani Al Matroushi, Director General of Dubai Civil Defense; Richard Abbot, Area Commander of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) of the UK; and Eric Flores, Vice President of the National Federation of French Firefighters (FNSPF), among others.

These partnerships aim to reinforce security, disaster prevention, and community wellbeing on a global scale.

The alliance’s primary objective is the reduction of fire incidents and their associated carbon emissions.

Innovative approaches and technology

A central component of the alliance’s strategy is the ‘Eco Readiness’ programme, which includes a global fire incident database.

This system conducts a detailed analysis of carbon emissions from fire incidents across different continents, categorising and sharing data with firefighting organisations responsible for each continent.

Additionally, in collaboration with the private sector, the Dubai Civil Defense has launched the ‘Heat Map of Environmental Crimes’.

This technological project offers detailed insights into the characteristics, patterns, and data related to environmental crimes, playing a crucial role in connecting various crimes to climate change.

IFSJ Comment

The establishment of the World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance marks a significant step in international efforts to address the environmental impact of fires.

This initiative, spearheaded by the UAE, exemplifies the increasing recognition of the role fires play in global carbon emissions and climate change.

The alliance’s approach, combining global collaboration, data analysis, and innovative technology, sets a new standard in the fight against environmental challenges.

Its success could pave the way for more integrated and effective responses to climate change, highlighting the crucial role of international cooperation and technological advancement in environmental protection.

Europe’s new sustainability reporting directive to widen corporate accountability

by Featured NewsSustainability

The European Union has enacted the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), marking a significant evolution in corporate sustainability reporting.

This move will broaden the number of businesses required to detail their sustainable practices, escalating from 11,000 to nearly 50,000.

This change, according to IOSH, underscores the growing acknowledgment of employee welfare as central to organisational success.

Dr. Ivan Williams Jimenez from IOSH has praised the directive while cautioning about potential disparities it might introduce among businesses.

The rising burden of sustainability reporting on smaller businesses

IOSH’s Dr. Williams Jimenez has recognized the potential difficulties smaller companies may face due to the expanded scope of the reporting directive.

“This increase in the scope of sustainability reporting could be a burden for smaller businesses lagging behind the larger companies operating in Europe who are required to recognise their workers as being material to their organisational success and therefore encouraged to position their people at the heart of how they operate,” he said.

He notes that while many UK businesses actively manage sustainability risks, the new directive may press less proactive companies to accelerate their reporting practices.

The impact of CSRD beyond the European Union

While initially affecting EU member states, the reach of the CSRD will extend to non-EU businesses by 2028.

Brexit will not exempt UK companies with substantial EU business dealings from these requirements.

The implications are vast for non-EU companies that meet certain turnover thresholds, potentially impacting their operations and necessitating robust adjustments to comply with the new European standards.

IOSH views the CSRD as a chance to enhance performance reporting and supply chain management, continuing their two-decade-long advocacy for the recognition of occupational safety and health as critical to sustainability.

To aid in meeting the new requirements, IOSH recommends OSH professionals engage with its training resources on sustainability reporting.

Learn more about the impact of Europe’s new reporting rules as seen by IOSH. For further information on how to prepare for the changes in sustainability reporting, IOSH offers courses on leading and managing sustainably.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the CSRD is a landmark shift towards enhanced transparency in the corporate sector.

It reflects a paradigm where workforce welfare is not just an ethical priority but also a business imperative.

As we transition into an era where social and governance issues become increasingly quantifiable, the directive ensures that corporate narratives on sustainability are more than just lip service.

It propels companies to act on the premise that a sustainable business model hinges on the sustainable management of human capital.

With the scope of impact set to widen beyond EU borders, businesses across the globe will find themselves under a new lens of scrutiny.

Adapting to this shift is not just about compliance; it’s about embracing a future where the measure of a company’s worth includes its socio-environmental footprint.

IOSH’s stance and resources offer a crucial supporting role for organisations navigating these changes.

MSA Safety ranks among America’s greenest companies

by Featured NewsSustainability

MSA Safety’s commitment to sustainability recognised

MSA Safety, Inc., a global leader in safety solutions, has been acknowledged by Newsweek as one of ‘America’s Greenest Companies 2024’.

This recognition comes as a first for the publication, which partnered with Plant-A Insights and GIST Impact to highlight 300 US organisations across 57 industries for their environmental stewardship and sustainability management.

The evaluation for the ‘America’s Greenest Companies’ list was extensive, considering more than 25 parameters across four categories: greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, waste generation, and sustainability data disclosure and commitments.

It assessed organisations based on public data, ensuring they met the European Union’s sustainability standards and disclosed sustainability data by July 31, 2023.

MSA Safety’s environmental targets and achievements

MSA Safety has already made strides in reducing its environmental impact by establishing a carbon reduction target aligned with a 1.5 degree Celsius trajectory.

The goal is to reduce scope one and two emissions by 42 percent by 2030, using 2021 as a baseline.

Detailed information on these initiatives can be found in MSA Safety’s 2022 Impact Report here.

Stephanie Sciullo, President of MSA’s Americas business segment, underlined the company-wide efforts to improve sustainability: “Our teams around the world are helping us improve the sustainability of MSA’s operations.”

She also pointed out the company’s investment in its future and the environment, which includes the implementation of sustainability principles in day-to-day operations.

Sciullo highlighted MSA Safety’s contribution to their clients’ sustainability efforts, citing the MSA Bacharach MGS-401 Entrance Monitor as a key tool in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

MSA Safety’s role in promoting a greener industry

The company’s accolades extend beyond Newsweek’s recognition. MSA Safety has previously been listed as one of ‘America’s Most Responsible Companies’ and was named one of ‘America’s Climate Leaders (2023)’ by USA Today.

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of MSA Safety by Newsweek reflects a broader trend in the industry where environmental responsibility is not just an optional virtue but a core component of business operations.

For stakeholders in the fire and safety sectors, such acknowledgements underline the necessity of integrating sustainable practices into their business models.

It demonstrates a growing acknowledgement that the industry must play a proactive role in addressing global environmental challenges.

MSA Safety’s initiatives serve as a benchmark for the sector, proving that implementing sustainability measures is not only feasible but also conducive to earning industry-wide recognition.

As safety professionals, the alignment of MSA Safety’s operations with environmental stewardship also resonates with the intrinsic goal of protecting lives, not just in the present but for future generations.

It is an encouraging sign that companies within this sector are taking significant steps towards reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to the global fight against climate change.

CTIF highlights the urgent need for global action in response to the climate crisis

by Featured NewsSustainability

CTIF speaks on climate change’s impact on fire service

The Executive Committee of CTIF (The International Association of Fire and Rescue Services) has issued an official statement addressing the effects of climate change on fire services and communities around the world.

Not only are forest fires an evident concern, but also recent deadly heat waves, floods, and other weather-related events.

Increasing threats in a changing climate

CTIF has expressed a profound concern regarding the rising threats due to the climate crisis.

The statement mentions that lives and properties are facing increased risks due to nature’s devastating effects.

As the world continues to grapple with the real-world consequences of climate change, firefighters and first responders are at the frontline.

Tragically, some have already made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting communities.

Despite receiving significant support for international joint responses, especially in combating wildfires, CTIF stresses that further actions are imperative.

CTIF’s call to action amid the climate crisis

CTIF’s call to action emphasises several key points:

  1. Recognising the current operational crisis and intensifying collaborative efforts towards practical solutions.
  2. Utilising all available authority, legislation, and collaborative capabilities to confront nature’s challenges that are not constrained by national borders.
  3. Committing financial resources to ensure adequate response tools, training, and personal protective gear for frontline responders.
  4. Offering consistent support to the public, firefighters, and first responders, ensuring they understand the escalating risks, possess the necessary tools and skills to react, and have the resilience to recover.

Milan Dubravac, CTIF President, stated: “We are now continuously going through an extraordinary period of operational challenges, one where firefighters routinely find they are confronting emergency situations that go way beyond what was previously seen as ‘normal’ or ‘expected’.

“The physical and mental strain on everyone is demanding and we have sadly lost colleagues.

“At the moment it feels an unequal fight sometimes overwhelming pre-planned responses and the practical equipment available.

“Being better resourced and operating collectively is the way forward. It has to be accepted action is needed now – not at some time in the future – fire and rescue cannot do this alone.”

IFSJ Comment

The statement from CTIF underscores a pressing issue faced by fire and rescue services across the globe.

As the climate crisis escalates, it’s not just about adapting to a new ‘normal’ but also about ensuring the safety and resilience of those on the front lines.

The call for enhanced resources and collective action is a testament to the ever-evolving challenges faced by these services.

Fire and rescue teams worldwide deserve support, training, and resources to combat these increasing threats effectively.

Solar panel safety concerns grow as fire incidents increase six-fold

by Breaking NewsSafetySustainability

Report on the recent rise in fires linked to solar panels, based on an article from The Independent

Concerns are mounting about the safety of solar panels after a significant rise in the number of related fires.

According to The Independent, the increase in such fires is alarming, especially after a surge in solar panel use due to rising energy bills.

Data shows that last year, there were six times more fires involving solar panels than there were a decade ago.

This rate of fires has seen a sharp increase, with 66 cases recorded up to July this year, compared to 63 for the entirety of 2019.

Solar panel installation concerns: A lack of strict regulation?

An incident reported by The Independent saw NHS worker Tracey Adams and her son Leo evacuated from their West London home due to a fire caused by their roof’s solar panels.

Their experience resulted in them moving between various budget accommodations as their council house was deemed unsafe to live in post the fire.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has voiced its worries regarding the potential hazards solar panels might pose to building safety.

Similarly, the charity Electrical Safety First said it believes the spike in fire incidents demands urgent investigation.

Solar Energy UK states that the rate of domestic solar installations in the UK is currently at its peak in over seven years, underscoring the importance of addressing these safety concerns.

Solar panels and the rush for renewable energy

According to The Independent, data from 45 UK fire authorities indicates that the initial batch of solar panels, installed under the government’s Feed in Tariff (FiT) subsidies in 2010, might be fire-prone.

Between 2010 and 2016, the UK’s solar capacity skyrocketed, but growth slowed down in 2019 when the FiT was terminated.

While solar capacity grew by 10.5% from 2019 to 2022, the number of solar panel-related fires surged by nearly 50%.

Experts are said to believe the initial rush following the introduction of FiT may have led to subpar installations, which might not have undergone thorough checks since.

There is now a call for clarity regarding the electrical safety regulations to guarantee regular inspections and tests of solar photovoltaic installations.

Presently, while anyone can install solar panels in the UK, the installation requires local council approval.

The government has advised homeowners to hire registered electricians for the job, but critics have raised concerns that many installers may not be up-to-date with the regulations, leading to panels deteriorating over time.

Embracing safer solar technologies

Captain Richard Birt, a former firefighter and founder of Solar And Fire Education, suggested that the UK should consider transitioning to safer technologies widely adopted in the US.

Traditional solar panels in domestic setups can produce electricity with high voltages, which are prone to causing fires if the installations were initially flawed.

Micro inverters, however, can convert this output to a more secure 230V AC, greatly reducing the risk.

Despite these concerns, a government spokesperson assured that the risk of fires from solar panels remains “extremely low,” with ongoing collaborations with the industry to enhance safety measures.

IFSJ Comment

Solar panels are widely embraced as a renewable energy solution, but the recent spike in associated fires demands immediate attention.

With the UK’s commitment to greener solutions, it’s crucial to strike a balance between rapid adoption and stringent safety regulations.

The experiences shared by homeowners and insights from safety experts underline the importance of quality installations, regular checks, and perhaps an adoption of safer solar technologies.

Ensuring safety will not only protect homes and businesses but also fortify trust in solar technologies, which is essential for a sustainable future.

Fire chiefs worldwide stress on the growing risks of climate change

by AmericasAmericas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsSustainability

In a recent position paper coinciding with the UN’s Climate Ambition Summit in New York, global fire chiefs from major cities expressed deep concerns about the increasing risks posed by climate change.

They stressed the imperative for proactive strategies and greater cooperation to strengthen the capabilities of fire and rescue departments around the world.

Chiefs collaborate for a proactive stance on climate change impacts

This marks the inaugural occasion where chiefs from the Urban Fire Forum have published a position paper focusing on climate change’s implications for the fire service.

The paper was formulated with the backing of the US Fire Administration.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), located in Quincy, MA, hosts the Urban Fire Forum. It brings together fire chiefs from prominent cities across the globe.

Their annual gathering facilitates the chiefs to provide policy direction concerning emerging challenges facing fire departments internationally.

Prominent figures from the fire service, including US Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell and NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley, were present.

Extreme weather patterns underline the urgency

Recent occurrences have underscored the fire chiefs’ urgency regarding this issue. For instance, in August, Lahaina in Maui faced devastating wildfires intensified by drought conditions and storm-like winds, marking it as the most fatal wildfire in the US in over 100 years.

Globally, such severe weather phenomena are on the rise.

In 2022, a total of 42 weather-induced disasters were recorded worldwide, each leading to damages exceeding a billion dollars.

In their paper, the chiefs mentioned: “Throughout history, fire and rescue departments have dedicated countless hours preparing to respond to catastrophic events, striving to minimise the effects on the communities they protect.”

However, with climate change’s persistent effects, there’s a growing need for fire service leaders to re-evaluate typical risks and acclimatise to the evolving threats of the present-day emergency response scenario.

They highlight the increasing challenge fire departments face, from impacts on their resources and manpower to the demand for specialised equipment and skills.

Pauley commented: “This isn’t merely a plea; it’s a guide to ensure our firefighters and communities are optimally equipped for the evident repercussions of climate instability.”

He further indicated that this position paper serves as a good representation of fire chiefs pioneering an essential facet of the NFPA Outthink Wildfire policy initiative, which aims to ensure fire departments are equipped to address wildfires safely and effectively.

Dr. Moore-Merrell, responding to the paper, said: “Across our nation and the globe, the menace of climate change-induced wildfires, coupled with frequent potent storms in unfamiliar territories, poses threats to individuals, communities, and first responders.”

She emphasised that fire departments, being at the forefront of such climate-induced incidents, require immediate enhancement in resilience and resources.

A forward-thinking approach and flexibility towards sustainable solutions are paramount, she added.

Mounting challenges and the road ahead

The position paper sheds light on the escalating challenges due to climate change and offers resources for fire departments to tackle them.

Recent news headlines offer evidence of community impacts ranging from severe heatwaves, catastrophic wildfires to unforeseen floods like the ones at the 2023 Burning Man Festival in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert.

Such incidents lead to loss of life, extensive damage, and significant socio-economic consequences, imposing an unparalleled strain on fire and rescue units.

The paper also outlines five core principles to guarantee a climate-resilient fire service, including proactive risk rethinking, a whole-system approach, a focus on mission, collaboration and inclusivity, and the adoption of durable solutions.

Otto Drozd, executive secretary of the NFPA Metropolitan Chiefs Association which coordinates the Urban Fire Forum, noted: “The scope of climate-related catastrophes affects both small towns and large cities universally.”

He added that this position paper from forum members underscores the gravity and extensive concerns of fire leaders.

For those interested in a deeper dive, the position paper is accessible here.

IFSJ Comment

The release of this position paper by global fire chiefs highlights a pressing concern that resonates universally.

It isn’t just a statement but a testament to the evolving challenges that fire and rescue departments face in light of our changing climate.

By offering a blend of insights, resources, and principles, this paper provides a foundational roadmap for departments worldwide.

As the frequency and intensity of climate-induced events rise, the collective efforts, as outlined in the position paper, can ensure that our fire and rescue services remain robust, resilient, and equipped to safeguard communities against the unpredictable adversities of a changing climate.

Perimeter Solutions unveils first fluorine-free firefighting foam concentrate on DoD’s qualified list

by AmericasBreaking NewsSustainability

Shift towards eco-friendly firefighting foams

The Department of Defense (DoD) has added a new name to its Qualified Products List (QPL) for firefighting foams.

Perimeter Solutions, a renowned global manufacturer of firefighting foams, has announced its breakthrough product: a 3% MIL-SPEC synthetic fluorine-free firefighting foam.

This notable addition to the QPL indicates a significant step towards adopting more environmentally friendly alternatives in the industry.

This new foam allows federal regulations to encourage airport authorities and other government entities that rely on MIL-SPEC products to transition from the traditionally used aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) to a fluorine-free option.

Adapting to new regulations and guidelines

Since 1969, industry stakeholders followed the MIL-F-24385 specification which mandated the use of AFFF.

However, in a progressive move, January 2023 saw the introduction of the MIL-PRF-32725 (I1) – a new specification focusing on land-based, fresh-water applications for fluorine-free foams.

Crafted in Green Bay, Wisconsin, this particular 3% MIL-SPEC foam concentrate is tailor-made for efficiently combating gasoline and Jet A fuel spill fires.

Remarkably, it not only meets but surpasses the stipulated requirements such as the expansion ratio, burn back, and 25% drain-time performance metrics.

Emphasising its eco-friendliness, this product is biodegradable, non-persistent, and excludes siloxanes or intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Compatibility with varied equipment systems further boosts its utility value.

“We have pioneered the fluorine-free foam technology since the early 2000s,” Craig McDonnell, Vice President, General Manager of Perimeter Solutions’ Americas Suppressants and Prevention & Protection, commented.

“Our fourth-generation fluorine-free foam, now part of the QPL, accentuates our commitment to blending peak industry standards with environmental consciousness.”

McDonnell also highlighted how internal testing at Perimeter Solutions validated the foam’s efficacy in saltwater – a critical consideration as numerous water sources possess elevated mineral or salt levels that might compromise foam performance.

In a testament to their long-standing association, McDonnell revealed that Perimeter Solutions had previously collaborated with the Air Force during their Aircraft Rescue Firefighting foam transition between 2015-2016.

This partnership saw the delivery of a whopping 418,000 gallons of foam to 183 global locations.

Mark Siem, Business Development-Industrial, Chemist at Perimeter Solutions, added: “While some manufacturers are veering away from the new MIL-SPEC qualification program, Perimeter Solutions is unwavering in its resolve to provide top-notch fluorine-free foam solutions to both military and commercial sectors.”

For an in-depth look at Perimeter Solutions and the revolutionary 3% MIL-SPEC foam, click here.

IFSJ Comment

The evolution of firefighting technologies has been instrumental in safeguarding both people and assets.

This latest advancement from Perimeter Solutions marks a crucial milestone in our journey towards marrying efficacy with environmental consciousness.

The inclusion of a fluorine-free foam concentrate on the DoD’s QPL is a testament to the industry’s commitment to seeking sustainable alternatives that don’t compromise on performance.

As challenges mount and the world adapts, it’s imperative for solutions to reflect a balance between immediate needs and long-term environmental considerations.

BESA introduces a revamped HIU test standard in the UK

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafetySustainability

BESA’s updated HIU test standard

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has launched a new testing system for Heat Interface Units (HIUs) in the UK.

This updated protocol replaces the original standard introduced in 2016 and later updated in 2018. More about the latest updates can be found here.

Aiming for consumer protection

The purpose behind BESA’s enhanced UK HIU Test Regime is to provide clearer information to specifiers and to optimise the experience for the end-users.

The standard was devised with the intent of safeguarding consumers and to ensure the industry aligns with the requirements of those involved in the creation and design of heat networks.

Boosting efficiency and choice

The test regime is a voluntary measure, offering manufacturers an independent means to evaluate, measure, and compare the effectiveness of their products.

The protocol has proven beneficial in elevating HIU performance within the industry. This enhancement has equipped specifiers with vital data, aiding them in making knowledgeable decisions when choosing HIUs for their ventures.

HIUs play a pivotal role in channelling heat from district heating systems to individual structures and residences.

Their functioning is integral to the system’s overall efficacy.

The BESA Standard was conceived from an efficiency research initiative backed by the UK government, aiming to bolster the performance of this vital technology.

The BESA HIU Steering Group, a collective of representatives from various stages of the testing procedure, has overseen its subsequent evolutions.

This group liaises with stakeholders spanning from developers, specifiers, and purchasers to manufacturers, suppliers, and ultimately, the consumer.

Enhancements in the latest standard

The third iteration of the HIU standard showcases notable advancements. It has been revamped into a modular design, allowing the evaluation of diverse HIU types, inclusive of space heating-only models.

This edition introduces a DHW load test and revises how the annual volume weighted return temperature (VWART) is determined.

Currently, the standard encompasses seven distinct HIU types, stipulating pass/fail criteria culminating in the documentation of a successful evaluation.

The test’s modular format is tailored to reduce the need for retesting while augmenting the data available to specifiers.

Trials adhering to this benchmark facilitate the comparison of varying HIUs under customary UK operational conditions.

This provides proof of adherence to other performance metrics, including domestic hot water response intervals.

A BESA technical consultant validates the outcome before it’s listed on the BESA HIU Test Register.

This catalogued data aids specifiers in making well-informed HIU choices for their projects.

BESA manages the regime as a not-for-profit initiative, reinvesting testing revenues into the scheme’s prospective growth.

Manufacturers choosing to list their test findings on the Register can label themselves as ‘BESA registered’, and are granted permission to utilise the Association’s emblem.

Industry reactions

“We’re thrilled to present the latest phase of HIU testing in the UK,” expressed Gareth Jones, Chair of the BESA HIU Steering Group.

“The foundational test standard has already fostered positive industry transformations.

“The latest standard symbolises a considerable progression, especially in acknowledging the transition to eco-friendly technologies.”

Jones further highlighted the relevance of the new standard with the upcoming Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme and the impending heat network regulations.

He emphasised that the revised standard aligns seamlessly with these novel prerequisites, instilling enhanced confidence in the industry.

He also spotlighted the test’s contribution to market evolution, stating: “It exemplifies the constructive influence of consumer-driven initiatives on market growth.”

Looking ahead

With over 50,000 HIUs being set up annually in the UK, their role in the country’s decarbonisation blueprint is escalating.

This surge underscores the significance of establishing performance benchmarks, as articulated by BESA.

Jones added: “Ultimately, consumers stand to gain from the enhanced performance of heat networks.

“As manufacturers utilise the test results to further research and refine their offerings, specifiers are poised to make increasingly informed decisions.”

For further details on the BESA HIU Standard, click here.

IFSJ Comment

The revised HIU test standard by BESA showcases the industry’s commitment to continually elevate standards, ensuring consumers receive top-tier products.

As HIUs play a growing role in the UK’s decarbonisation strategy, it’s essential for benchmarks to be robust, transparent, and in line with contemporary needs.

This step by BESA is a testament to the industry’s forward-thinking approach and the emphasis on aligning with green initiatives.

The new standard, by enhancing transparency and promoting better-informed decisions, is set to drive both industry growth and consumer satisfaction.

Euralarm introduces a new task group on environmental sustainability

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSustainability

The Horizontal Compliance Committee of Euralarm has embarked on a fresh initiative centred on environmental and sustainability concerns.

The inaugural meeting for this group was held on August 23rd.

Euralarm’s proactive approach to sustainability

Earlier in the year, the Horizontal Compliance Committee recognised the growing number of European legislative initiatives concerning the environment and sustainability under the European Green Deal.

The experts on such topics from Euralarm members are typically distinct from those who handle electrotechnical subjects.

Consequently, the Committee saw the need to begin a Task Group specifically for these subjects, contingent on adequate expert interest.

The response was positive, with the August 23rd meeting seeing participation from 17 experts spanning 14 organisations, representing all Euralarm sections.

Christian Schmitz of Honeywell chaired the meeting as the Horizontal Compliance Committee head.

Addressing pivotal environmental legislations

The core aim of this new Task Group is to tackle the legislations related to environmental sustainability where Euralarm can either make a difference or where substantial impact on its members is expected.

The Task Group is set to delve into topics as per the Horizontal Compliance Committee’s suggestions.

Among them are the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, sustainability prerequisites for revising the CPR, and others like the Digital Product Passport, Green Claims Directive, and Right to Repair Directive.

The Task Group also plans to collaborate with the Orgalim Green Transition Working Group to avoid overlaps and optimise outcomes.

The outcomes from the Task Group may range from informative memos encapsulating legislations to Euralarm’s feedbacks, position papers, guidance resources, and webinars.

IFSJ Comment

Euralarm’s establishment of a Task Group dedicated to environmental sustainability mirrors the growing global emphasis on the environment and responsible industry practices.

With a focus on legislative initiatives under the European Green Deal, this move is timely and could potentially shape policies and directives that have a far-reaching impact on the fire safety and security industry.

The collaboration with other organisations further showcases Euralarm’s commitment to a holistic and inclusive approach to sustainability.

To understand more about the initiatives and directives, visit www.euralarm.org.