Advanced launches new-CPD on smoke control systems

by Fire DetectionProductsProducts

Advanced launches a new course focused on smoke control systems and its role in protecting life and property.

According to the company, this new release expands on its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme.

Titled Smoke Control Systems: Principles, Pitfalls and Protection

The free CPD has been developed to provide consultants, specifiers, fire engineers, installers, facilities managers and other fire safety professionals with a practical understanding of smoke control strategies, system types and compliance requirements.

The company said that the module explores the principles of smoke movement and the importance of smoke control in supporting safe evacuation, firefighting access and property protection.

Attendees will gain insight into natural and mechanical smoke ventilation systems, smoke exhaust and pressurisation methods, as well as the key components used within smoke control systems.

The CPD also examines the standards and regulations that govern smoke control design and maintenance, including Approved Document B, BS EN 12101, BS 7346-8, BS 9991 and BS 9999.

Alongside this, the course highlights common design, installation and maintenance pitfalls, helping attendees better understand best practice approaches and long-term compliance responsibilities.

“A critical role”

Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer at Advanced said: “Smoke control systems play a critical role in modern fire safety strategies, particularly in complex and high-rise buildings where maintaining clear escape routes is essential.

“This CPD has been designed to provide practical, real-world guidance on the principles behind smoke control systems, the challenges involved in their design and maintenance and the standards that govern them.”

“By helping industry professionals strengthen their understanding of smoke control, we can support them in designing better systems and delivering improved compliance, ultimately creating safer buildings,” he concluded.

Certifications and education

According to Advanced, all of the CPDs are certified by the CPD Certification Service, with attendees receiving a certificate of attendance upon successful completion.

The new smoke control CPD joins Advanced’s growing portfolio of educational modules, including:

  • Introduction to Fire Detection & Alarm Systems
  • Managing False Fire Alarms: Tools & Techniques
  • A Guide to Meeting BS 8629

Advanced’s deploys alert system to protects John Street, Newham

by Breaking NewsEvacuation

John Street, Newham, a high‑rise residential development comprising Blocks A and C, has been equipped with a comprehensive life safety solution from Advanced.

According to the company, this deployment has incorporated the SmokeGo smoke control and EvacGo evacuation alert systems to support a stay‑put fire strategy and enhance resident safety.

Advanced said that the project, delivered as part of a wider life safety installation by Simple Life Safety Systems Limited, required a robust and compliant approach to smoke control and evacuation alert across two buildings with different heights and risk profiles.

Block A is a 14‑storey, high‑rise residential block, while Block C is a smaller, four‑storey building. Each block was equipped with one SmokeGo panel and one EvacGo panel, providing dedicated control tailored to the specific needs of each structure.

SmokeGo

SmokeGo was specified to deliver active smoke control via the fire system, supporting the management of smoke in common escape routes and critical areas.

Designed to comply with EN 54 Parts two and four, as well as BS 7346‑8 and ISO 21927‑9, SmokeGo enables automatic and manual control of smoke control fans and dampers from a single, intuitive interface.

Advanced said that its simple matrix‑based configuration allowed the project team to clearly define smoke compartments and cause‑and‑effect relationships, helping ensure smoke is contained and extracted effectively in the event of a fire.

EvacGo

EvacGo was installed as a fully independent BS 8629-compliant evacuation alert system, giving the fire and rescue service a reliable and secure means of alerting residents if evacuation beyond the affected flat is required.

Each EvacGo panel is housed within a robust, tamper‑proof enclosure and is designed exclusively for use by the fire and rescue service, helping prevent misuse while ensuring clear, decisive control during an incident, Advanced added.

“The tools they need”

John Newton, Director Life Safety at Simple Group commented: “John Street was a complex residential project that required careful coordination between smoke control and evacuation alert systems.

“Using SmokeGo and EvacGo allowed us to deliver a fully compliant solution that aligns with the fire strategy while giving the fire and rescue service the tools they need to manage incidents safely and effectively,” he concluded.

“They deliver confidence”

Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer at Advanced added: “Projects like John Street highlight the importance of implementing smoke control and evacuation alert systems correctly.

“SmokeGo makes complex smoke control logic far simpler to configure and manage, while EvacGo provides a clear, compliant evacuation alert solution. Together, they deliver confidence for installers, building managers and emergency responders alike.”

Dedicated life safety systems

The SmokeGo smoke control system and EvacGo evacuation alert system operate as separate dedicated life safety systems, ensuring smoke movement can be actively controlled while evacuation decisions remain firmly in the hands of the fire and rescue service.

This layered approach supports resident safety without undermining the stay‑put strategy that underpins the building’s fire design.

With one SmokeGo panel and one EvacGo panel installed in each block, the John Street development now benefits from a coordinated life safety solution that addresses both smoke management and evacuation alerting in line with current best practice and regulatory guidance.

The company said that this project demonstrates how Advanced’s specialist systems can be combined to meet the evolving safety requirements of modern residential buildings, delivering compliant, practical solutions that prioritise both resident safety and operational simplicity.

Royal Marine Hotel replaces fire system with Advanced technology

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Royal Marine Hotel installs Advanced fire panels

The Royal Marine Hotel in County Dublin has upgraded its fire safety infrastructure through the installation of Advanced MxPro 5 fire panels.

TEE Fire Safety Solutions (TSS) published a case study detailing the replacement of the previous system to address reliability issues and frequent false alarms.

The hotel premises include guest rooms, restaurant areas, a spa, an underground car park and plant rooms.

Installation teams replaced five existing panels on a single day to maintain network continuity across the live hospitality environment.

The new configuration uses a combination of eight-loop, four-loop and two-loop MxPro 5 analogue addressable panels.

A fully functional repeater panel supports the network which contains 1,813 programmed devices across seven nodes.

Timmy England, Managing Director at TEE Fire Safety Solutions, said: “This was a live hotel environment where reliability and minimal disruption were essential.

“The MxPro 5 allowed us to implement effective false alarm management while maintaining high safety standards, and replacing all networked panels in one day was a major advantage.”

False alarm management and future expansion

The project utilised the configuration capabilities of the MxPro 5 to establish a management strategy featuring specific verification and hold times.

TSS excluded manual call points, heat detectors and linear detection from these delays to ensure immediate response to genuine fire threats.

The programmed staged alarm strategy activates sounders for management and maintenance staff before escalating to a full evacuation.

The site uses standard network cards to link the panels and provides a platform for future scalability.

Neil Parkin, Sales Manager at Advanced for UK North, Northern Ireland and ROI, commented: “Hotels present unique fire safety challenges, particularly when it comes to managing false alarms while protecting guests and staff.

“This project demonstrates how MxPro 5 delivers reliable, intelligent fire protection that meets those demands and supports future growth.”

The hotel plans to add an additional single-loop panel to the network to accommodate a forthcoming extension.

From connected protection to smarter compliance: How Advanced is linking fire systems

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

Michael Dunbar, Digital Product Manager, Matt Jones, Head of Sales UK & Ireland, and Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer at Advanced, discuss the development of smarter, integrated fire safety solutions

As fire safety challenges grow more complex, so do expectations for system performance, integration and accountability.

At The Fire Safety Event (FSE) 2026, Advanced will be demonstrating how intelligent fire, smoke control and evacuation systems are evolving to meet these demands, not as isolated components, but as part of a smarter and connected whole.

Exhibiting in Hall 4, Stand D85, at Birmingham’s NEC, from 28–30 April, Advanced will showcase how its latest technologies are supporting safer buildings today, while laying the foundations for the data‑driven, integrated systems that compliance will increasingly demand tomorrow.

Across its stand, visitors will see how fire detection, smoke control, evacuation and system intelligence can work together, simplifying compliance, improving response and reducing long‑term operational burden.

Addressing modern challenges with proven systems

The fire safety landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade.

Buildings are more complex, usage patterns more dynamic and expectations around safety, accountability and resilience far higher than ever before.

What hasn’t changed is the need for systems that are dependable, intuitive and fit for purpose.

At Advanced, we’ve spent years developing fire and life safety solutions that respond to real‑world challenges, not theoretical ones.

That experience is particularly relevant today, as the industry grapples with emerging requirements like enhanced evacuation strategies, smoke control expectations and the growing focus on lockdown and mass notification.

A good example is the conversation around Martyn’s Law.

While the legislation itself continues to evolve, the underlying principle is clear: buildings must be able to respond quickly and effectively to a wider range of threats.

What’s often misunderstood is that many of the capabilities being discussed aren’t new concepts.

In fact, Advanced systems have supported site‑wide alerts, phased responses and lockdown‑style functionality for years, using existing, proven infrastructure.

By using intelligent fire panels, networked systems and flexible cause‑and‑effect programming, it’s already possible to deliver clear alerts, control movement and support coordinated responses without introducing unnecessary complexity or standalone systems.

At FSE, we’ll be demonstrating how these features can be implemented using our existing technology, giving specifiers and end users confidence that they can adapt to future requirements without wholesale system replacement.

Another key challenge is integration.

Fire safety systems can no longer be designed in isolation.

Smoke control, evacuation alert systems, fire detection and building management all need to work together seamlessly.

This isn’t about adding layers of technology for the sake of it, it’s about creating systems that are easier to understand, easier to manage and ultimately more effective in an emergency.

That philosophy underpins everything we’re showing at FSE, from our latest control panels to dedicated solutions like SmokeGo and EvacGo, and through to the growing role of system intelligence and connectivity.

Smoke control without complexity

Smoke control is one of the most critical, and often most misunderstood, elements of fire safety design.

It plays a vital role in protecting escape routes, supporting firefighting operations and limiting fire spread, yet it has traditionally been associated with complex programming, specialist hardware and difficult commissioning.

SmokeGo was developed to change that.

As Advanced’s dedicated smoke control solution, SmokeGo is designed to make smoke control simpler, faster and fully compliant across a wide range of applications.

Approved to EN54 Parts 2 and 4, and designed to meet the requirements of standards including BS 7346‑8 and ISO 21927‑9, it delivers reliable automatic and manual control of smoke control fans and dampers, without unnecessary complication.

One of SmokeGo’s biggest strengths is its flexibility.

It can be used in both dedicated and non‑dedicated smoke control systems, integrating seamlessly with Advanced’s next‑generation MxPro 5 fire panels.

This allows designers to achieve precise, coordinated control while maintaining a clear separation between fire detection and smoke management functions where required.

From an installer and commissioning perspective, SmokeGo’s four‑step configuration process is a game‑changer.

Complex cause‑and‑effect programming is replaced with an intuitive matrix that provides a clear, at‑a‑glance view of system behaviour.

What might once have taken days to configure can now be achieved far more quickly, with greater confidence and far less risk of error.

Operationally, SmokeGo offers the features that matter most in real buildings: automatic stairwell pressurisation, post‑alarm purge, cascade control for prioritising compartments as smoke spreads, interlocks to prevent unsafe fan operation and flexible manual overrides for fire and rescue services.

Automatic testing routines can also be programmed to run at defined intervals, helping ensure systems remain ready while minimising disruption to occupants.

Importantly, SmokeGo doesn’t exist in isolation.

When connected to AdvancedLive, users gain remote visibility of fan and damper status, adding another layer of assurance and simplifying maintenance planning.

It’s a practical example of how smart connectivity can enhance safety without overcomplicating system design.

AdvancedLive and the shift towards smarter, connected fire systems

We live in a connected world, yet many fire systems are still managed as if they exist in isolation.

Panels are installed, commissioned and then largely left alone, only interacted with during weekly tests, faults or incidents.

That approach is no longer sustainable.

Modern buildings now demand visibility.

A smart fire system isn’t about novelty or remote access for its own sake; it’s about having the right information at the right time.

Connectivity unlocks real‑time insight into system health, device status and event history, enabling faster, more accurate decision‑making when it matters most.

This is where AdvancedLive plays a critical role, not as a standalone platform, but as part of a wider smart fire system.

By connecting Advanced panels, users gain a live, unified view of what’s happening across their estate, whether that’s a single site or multiple buildings.

Fires, faults and isolations are visible as they occur, allowing teams to respond immediately rather than discovering issues after the fact.

That visibility has a direct operational impact.

Engineers can assess system status remotely before travelling to site, reducing unnecessary call‑outs.

Maintenance can be planned more effectively using device history and event data, and potential issues can be identified and addressed before they escalate into more serious and costly problems.

These benefits are already being realised in complex, real‑world environments.

At Blists Hill Victorian Town in Shropshire, multiple independent MxPro 5 panels across a large, dispersed heritage site are unified through AdvancedLive into a single, virtual network.

This provides centralised oversight without the need for additional hardware or intrusive infrastructure, allowing safety teams to monitor and manage fire system status across historic buildings, mine tunnels and standalone structures while preserving the site’s character and visitor experience.

Similarly, at Chalk Hills Academy in Luton, AdvancedLive supports the real‑time monitoring and management of a networked MxPro 5 system protecting multiple school buildings.

The platform enables authorised users to respond quickly to incidents, integrate fire safety with wider site systems such as lockdown and gas shut‑off and maintain reassurance that the system is operating as intended, even when staff are off site.

At FSE 2026, our focus is very much on making testing smarter.

Routine fire system testing remains essential, but it is often time‑consuming and disruptive.

Connected systems allow organisations to streamline testing, improve record‑keeping and reduce impact on building occupants, while still maintaining full compliance.

Looking ahead, the industry’s direction of travel is clear.

The future of fire safety is data‑driven and integration‑led.

Concepts such as the golden thread underline the growing expectation that accurate, accessible information will support building safety throughout a building’s lifecycle.

Fire systems will need to contribute to that data ecosystem, not sit outside it.

AdvancedLive is evolving with that future in mind, supporting secure access, clear audit trails and accountability.

The result is a smarter fire system where compliance isn’t just achieved at installation, but maintained, evidenced and understood over time.

A smarter, safer future

Across fire detection, smoke control, evacuation and system intelligence, Advanced’s message at FSE is simple: smarter systems don’t have to be more complicated.

By building on proven technology, embracing connectivity where it adds real value and focusing on usability, it’s possible to create fire safety solutions that are robust, adaptable and ready for the challenges ahead.

This was originally published in the April 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Advanced gains Environmental Product Declaration for MxPro 5 4-loop panels

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Advanced panels receive verified lifecycle declaration

MxPro 5 4 -oop fire alarm control panels from Advanced now hold an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), with independently verified data covering environmental impact across the full product lifecycle.

Advanced announced the declaration on 16 March 2026, stating that it was issued in accordance with EN 15804:2012+A2:2019 and ISO 14044/14025, and verified by BRE Global.

The EPD provides standardised environmental performance data for use in sustainability-focused specification and whole building assessment.

It was developed using a life cycle assessment (LCA) and presents cradle to grave data for the MxPro 5 4 loop panels, including carbon footprint and other impact indicators.

The declaration is intended to help consultants, designers and building owners assess how fire safety systems contribute to the environmental performance of a building or infrastructure project.

Advanced EPD covers full panel range

According to Advanced, the declaration applies across the full range of MxPro 5 4-loop panel configurations, including standard and deep enclosure formats, cross listed variants and Axis EN software variants.

The company said this means consistent environmental data is available across different configurations and compliance requirements.

The assessment is also being used to identify where environmental impacts occur across the product lifecycle.

That information is being used to inform product development, material selection and manufacturing efficiency, as well as energy use during operation.

Advanced said the EPD is valid for five years and will remain in force until March 2031, subject to the terms of the BRE Global verification scheme.

The company also said the MxPro 5 range was developed for longevity, flexibility and upgradeability to help extend system life and reduce waste over time.

Advanced to exhibit at The Fire Safety Event 2026 in Birmingham

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Detection

Advanced at The Fire Safety Event 2026

Advanced will exhibit its fire and life safety systems at The Fire Safety Event 2026, taking place from 28 to 30 April at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham.

The company said visitors will find the Advanced team at Hall 4 Stand D85, where it will demonstrate connected systems designed for building fire detection, smoke control and evacuation management.

The Fire Safety Event brings together manufacturers, installers, consultants and building operators to view new technologies and discuss developments affecting fire protection and compliance.

Advanced systems on display at the event

Advanced said the stand will feature demonstrations of SmokeGo and EvacGo.

SmokeGo is a smoke control system designed to manage smoke control fans and dampers through automatic or manual control.

The system is approved to EN54 Parts 2 and 4.

Advanced states that SmokeGo has been developed to support installation and system management through simplified configuration and clear system operation.

EvacGo is an evacuation alert system developed to support compliance with BS 8629 in residential buildings.

Built using MxPro 5 technology, the system enables fire and rescue services to control evacuation alert zones during an incident.

AdvancedLive monitoring platform demonstrations

Advanced said the team will also deliver live demonstrations of AdvancedLive during the exhibition.

AdvancedLive is a platform designed to monitor and manage Advanced fire systems through a computer, tablet or mobile device.

The platform provides users with system status information and alerts while supporting maintenance management.

Visitors to the stand will also be able to preview further enhancements planned for the AdvancedLive platform.

The Last Word with Sarah Lawson: Advanced’s US growth plan

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsFire Detection

Sarah Lawson, Operations Director, Advanced, on driving compliance and innovation in the US fire safety market

North America faces stricter fire regulations and rising infrastructure investment.

How do these support your regional growth strategy?

We need to ensure the safest living and working environments, and this drives Advanced to design and manufacture compliant systems that are reliable and efficient.

In the US, that’s our Axis AX system which is UL approved, well established and supports low and medium rise buildings with its scalability.

This means designers and installers can opt for our small single panel up to our larger command centre.

What scale of opportunity do you believe exists for fire system manufacturers over the next few years?

The fire safety market is roughly $26 billion and that’s expected to grow to about $30 billion in 2030.

We believe that we’ve got a market opportunity of the $6 billion worth out there.

We’re really looking at operating costs, so we offer a system that’s easy to use, easy to programme and increases the installer’s efficiency.

The simplicity of our system is a real key differentiator and it can also scale.

How has the rigorous testing and certification standards shaped your product development and compliance strategy as you expand in North America?

UL’s high bar aligns with our global approach of designing for the world’s toughest standards.

Our R&D and product teams look to ensure that our systems meet and often exceed regulatory requirements.

We’re looking at what the regulator needs but also using customer feedback to try and drive a bit more of that market focus.

We’re utilising that with customer feedback and market insights, but we also have our distribution partner in the US, Harding.

As you exhibit at two US fire trade shows this year, what are you aiming to showcase about your technology and commitment to the US market?

We are returning to NFPA this year and we’re also exhibiting at ISC West.

What we’re looking to do is showcase our products, continue to increase our North American presence and to build the understanding of what Advanced can offer to the market.

We’d like to continue to demonstrate the reliability, usability and scalability of our Axis AX model and highlight our integration and smart building capabilities.

How is Advanced demonstrating its commitment to the US fire sector through investment, partnerships, and local support?

We have our distribution partner and we’re also investing in regional sales to support coverage in North America.

We are also continuing to understand the differences required in different areas and regulatory bodies.

We’re strengthening partnerships to improve local reach, while continuing to invest in training, customer support and after-sales support.

This ensures customers have a clear route to provide feedback, understand the breadth of our offering and get the most value from our products.

This was originally published in the February 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Leading detection and raising fire safety standards: How Advanced is shaping Middle East projects

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Advanced’s Sasi Kumar, Sargunan Sellamuthu and Shadi Elhag talks driving fire safety innovation, delivering solutions for complex environments and meeting the needs of a changing market

Across the Middle East, questions about how detection, control and communication keep pace with rapid construction are now central to everyday project decisions.

In this trio of articles from Advanced, Sasi Kumar, General Manager MEA, considers technology demands highlighted at Intersec Dubai 2026.

Sargunan Sellamuthu, Business Development Manager Middle East, examines lessons from recent cinema, tunnel and mixed-use installations.

Shadi Elhag, Business Development Manager Middle East, focuses on residential and commercial projects shaped by changing codes and rising expectations for coordinated smoke control and communication.

Driving fire safety innovation with Sasi Kumar

The Middle East is experiencing a period of unprecedented growth, with new developments rising across the region, from the ambitious giga projects of Saudi Arabia to the luxury towers of Dubai and the expanding infrastructure of Qatar.

As urban landscapes evolve, so too do the challenges of protecting people and property.

At Advanced, our commitment is to deliver fire safety solutions that not only meet today’s requirements but anticipate the needs of tomorrow’s cities.

Intersec Dubai 2026, taking place from 12-14 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is the region’s premier platform for fire and security innovation.

This year, we’re proud to showcase our latest UL and EN fire protection technologies at Stand F24 in Hall 4, reflecting our ongoing investment in the Middle East and our dedication to supporting projects of every scale and complexity.

Our portfolio is designed to address the region’s diverse requirements.

The UL 864-approved Axis AX system is engineered for large-scale, high-rise, and mission-critical applications, offering robust networking for up to 200 panels, rapid communication, and advanced cause-and-effect programming.

Features such as PerfectSync technology ensure synchronised strobes and audio alerts, eliminating confusion during emergencies, a vital capability for tall buildings where voice evacuation is essential and fire brigade access can be limited.

Integrated audio supports both live paging and pre-recorded messages, with multi-channel delivery for clarity and coordination.

For EN-standard projects, the next-generation Axis EN system delivers enhanced performance, energy efficiency, and configuration flexibility.

Its hybrid wired and wireless capability makes it ideal for retrofits, heritage sites, and complex installations where dependable connectivity is paramount.

We’re also addressing the persistent challenge of false alarms with AlarmCalm, available on Axis EN and MxPro 5 panels, enabling tailored investigation delays and verification logic to minimise unnecessary evacuations and downtime.

But our commitment goes beyond detection.

At Intersec, we’ll be demonstrating DynamixSmoke, a visual, grid-based tool that simplifies smoke control configuration for fans, dampers, and pressurisation systems.

For asset protection, ExGo provides reliable extinguishing control, approved to EN12094-1 and EN54 standards, safeguarding critical equipment without water damage.

AxisGo brings the benefits of Axis EN to single-loop, non-networkable panels that are quick to install and easy to configure, while QuickZone provides dependable conventional protection across up to 32 zones.

As development accelerates across sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and transportation, the need for intelligent, adaptable fire protection grows.

Advanced works closely with regional partners and is actively seeking new collaborations to support evolving safety requirements across the Middle East.

Our team will be on hand throughout Intersec to discuss how we can help meet your project needs, whether you require UL-listed systems for large-scale developments or EN solutions for complex retrofits.

Axis AX in Action with Sargunan Sellamuthu

The diversity of projects in the Middle East demands fire safety systems that are not only powerful but also adaptable.

Our experience with installations such as Reel Cinemas in Bahrain’s Marassi Mall demonstrates the value of a flexible, integrated approach.

In this project, the Axis AX system was selected for its ability to manage a dynamic environment, protecting cinema-goers and staff across multiple screens, VIP lounges, kitchens, and common areas.

The Axis AX’s advanced configuration options and robust networking allowed us to overcome logistical challenges, integrating seamlessly with third-party systems like access control, fan units, kitchen hoods, and gas suppression.

The inclusion of voice evacuation has ensured clear, effective communication in emergencies, while the system’s scalability means it can grow with the venue’s needs.

This versatility is echoed in other sectors.

For example, in Oman’s Bidbid Tunnel, the Axis AX system was chosen for its resilience in a challenging environment, integrating fire detection, suppression, and jet fan control to manage smoke and ensure safe evacuation.

The ability to tailor solutions, whether for a high-rise, a tunnel, or a shopping mall, sets Advanced apart.

Our EN-approved Axis EN platform offers similar strengths for projects requiring compliance with European standards.

Its hybrid capability allows wired and wireless devices to be combined, making it ideal for heritage sites or live buildings where cabling is impractical.

The system’s networking supports up to 200 panels, providing a future-proof foundation for even the largest developments.

A key trend we’re seeing is the growing demand for integrated systems that combine fire detection, smoke control, and voice evacuation in a single platform.

This not only simplifies design and installation but also enhances safety by ensuring all critical functions are coordinated.

For example, in the Marassi Mall project, the Axis AX system’s PerfectSync technology ensured that audio and visual evacuation signals were perfectly synchronised across the entire network, eliminating confusion and enabling faster, safer evacuations.

Another area of focus is false alarm management.

In environments such as hotels, hospitals, and shopping centres, unwanted alarms can be highly disruptive and costly.

Our AlarmCalm technology, available in Axis EN systems, allows for tailored investigation delays and verification logic, reducing false alarms without compromising safety.

We also recognise the importance of ongoing support and training.

Our technical teams work closely with installers and end users to ensure systems are configured correctly and maintained to the highest standards.

Ultimately, our goal is to deliver peace of mind.

By offering systems that are easy to configure, integrate, and expand, we help our clients protect people and assets, no matter how complex the environment.

Meeting the needs of a changing market with Shadi Elhag

The Middle East’s construction boom is driving demand for intelligent, integrated fire safety solutions, especially in the residential and commercial sectors.

In Saudi Arabia, for example, the rise of giga projects and high-rise developments has brought new challenges and opportunities for fire protection.

Recent tragedies, such as the Cairo Telecommunications fire, have underscored the importance of smoke control and voice evacuation.

In response, the Saudi Fire Protection code now includes dedicated chapters on smoke control, and end users are prioritising systems that combine detection, smoke management, and coordinated evacuation.

Our Axis AX and Axis EN platforms are designed to meet these needs.

In Dubai’s Sobha S Tower, a landmark residential development, the Axis EN system provides comprehensive protection with addressable panels, voice evacuation, fire telephone, and smoke management capabilities.

The network supports seamless communication across all areas, ensuring rapid response and peace of mind for residents.

End users are also seeking solutions that offer interoperability, remote monitoring, and future-ready features.

We are also seeing increased interest in solutions tailored to the unique needs of different sectors.

For example, in the hospitality industry, the ability to provide multi-language voice evacuation messages and integrate with guest management systems is highly valued.

In healthcare, rapid detection and targeted evacuation are critical, while in education, systems must be robust, easy to use, and capable of supporting large, complex campuses.

Looking to the future, we anticipate continued growth in demand for scalable, networked systems that can adapt to changing requirements.

The ability to support large networks, up to 200 panels with Axis AX and Axis EN, ensures our solutions remain relevant as projects expand or evolve.

We are also investing in new technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance detection accuracy, reduce false alarms, and support predictive maintenance.

As the region continues to evolve, our commitment remains the same: to provide reliable, scalable, and innovative fire safety systems that protect lives and support the ambitions of the Middle East’s growing cities.

By working closely with our partners, listening to our customers, and investing in the future, we are helping to raise fire safety standards across the region.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Advanced ESPA Pager Interface enhances fire safety at University of Southampton

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Overview of Advanced paging upgrade

Advanced has reported that the University of Southampton has introduced a paging-based fire safety system for deaf and hard-of-hearing users across its multi-campus estate.

The project uses Advanced MxPro 5 fire panels integrated with the ESPA Pager Interface to deliver targeted alerts.

Premier Fire Security and Scope Communications delivered the solution in partnership with Advanced.

According to the Advanced, the installation is designed to provide accessible fire alerts without relying solely on audio alarms.

The system is already in use across the wider estate and is being expanded.

System configuration and campus coverage

Advanced said there are more than 200 of its panels installed at the University of Southampton, including two networks of 30 to 40 nodes and a growing number of extinguishing panels.

The ESPA 4.4.4-compliant Pager Interface links the fire detection network with Scope’s PageTek Pro Mk2 transmitter and EPOCBLUM pagers.

Each building or defined group of buildings is assigned a dedicated pager address.

Only users who have selected a particular address receive alerts for that area, which reduces confusion and supports faster responses.

Pagers can be programmed by users to activate or deactivate locations as required.

Password protection is used to prevent unauthorised changes to pager configurations.

Scope pillow pad and nightstand accessories are used so that alerts can be received at night while users are asleep.

Chris Chance, University of Southampton Contract Manager at Premier Fire Security, said: “We’ve worked closely with Scope and Advanced to create a system that’s not only reliable but incredibly flexible.

“The ability to configure pagers for any location means we can reduce hardware stock and improve coverage across the entire campus.

“It’s a huge step forward in inclusive safety.”

Partner roles and operational alerts

Advanced reported that the installation includes a dedicated paging group for engineers, janitors, security staff and fire marshals.

This group receives diagnostic and fault messages generated by the Advanced network.

Members of the group can also initiate fire messages for defined locations when required.

The arrangement is intended to support operational control and coordination across the estate.

Rob Baker, Head of Technical Support at Scope Communications, said: “This project demonstrates how powerful the ESPA interface can be when paired with our paging technology.

“The system ensures that alerts are both accurate and accessible, and we’re proud to support Premier Fire Security in expanding this solution across the university.”

Future expansion and Advanced perspective

Advanced stated that the long-term plan is to extend the paging solution to all student halls at the University of Southampton.

Under this plan, pagers would be reconfigured so that users can carry them between locations and still receive relevant alerts.

The company said this approach is intended to improve safety, streamline inventory and reduce overall costs.

Salvy Vittozzi, Regional Sales Manager for the South East at Advanced, commented: “This installation is a great example of how our ESPA Pager Interface can be used to deliver tailored fire alerts in complex environments.

“It’s rewarding to see our technology helping to make campuses safer and more inclusive for all users.”

Advanced noted that its wider portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and reduction systems and emergency lighting.

The company is owned by Halma, which is described as a global group of life-saving technology companies.

Implications for campus fire safety planning

The University of Southampton installation provides an example of how paging can be integrated with existing fire panels to deliver location-specific alerts to deaf and hard-of-hearing users.

Facilities managers responsible for multi-building estates can see how distinct pager addresses for each building or group of buildings support targeted notification.

Fire safety officers and system installers may be interested in how the ESPA 4.4.4 interface is used to connect fire panels with campus paging infrastructure.

The dedicated paging group for engineers, janitors, security and fire marshals illustrates how operational staff can receive diagnostic, fault and fire messages from the same network.

Procurement officers and fire-protection contractors can observe how the University plans to expand the system to student halls, using reconfigurable pagers to control inventory and costs.

Advanced fire safety solution supports student housing protection in Kent

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Fire safety upgrades completed at Canterbury Student Village with Advanced panels

Advanced has supplied MxPro 5 fire panels to upgrade fire safety systems at Canterbury Student Village in Kent.

The £3.5m project replaced existing fire alarm panels across Cloud Student Homes’ accommodation blocks while buildings remained occupied.

The installation covered Kentish House, Behn Hall and Tallis Court, requiring the previous fire systems to remain active during the replacement to ensure continuous protection for residents.

The networked system provides category L1 protection, covering student suites, bedrooms, plant rooms and high-risk areas.

Collaboration between Endeavour Group and CSS Ltd

Fire engineering consultants Endeavour Group appointed fire safety specialists CSS Ltd to manage the design, supply, installation and handover.

CSS Ltd installed five 4-loop MxPro 5 panels connected to an alarm receiving centre (ARC) for monitoring by fire and rescue services.

The system integrates with existing automatic opening vents (AOVs), lifts and access control systems.

Endeavour Group reviewed the design and functionality to confirm compliance with client requirements.

Industry leaders highlight ease of use and technical support

CSS Ltd Project Director Tony Leck said: “Advanced was specified since it supports an open protocol and offers a powerful solution for the student accommodation.

“It also offers an easy system for customers to navigate and use.

“The panels are proven in the field with CSS Ltd and Endeavour Group using them for a number of years.

“Advanced MxPro 5 panels are about the best on the market along with the tech support received by Advanced on installations.

“Pick up the phone to tech support and within minutes it is all sorted thanks to Advanced’s experienced technical support engineers.”

Leck highlighted features such as the built-in multimeter that measures system voltages and currents in real time to speed commissioning.

The panels are available in four- and eight-loop formats and can support up to 254 devices per loop.

Up to 200 panels can be networked, with compatibility for wired, wireless and hybrid installations.

Future upgrades planned across Cloud Student Homes sites

Neil Parkin, Sales Manager at Advanced, said: “Our MxPro 5 panels are designed to make life as easy as possible, delivering robust protection that offers real peace of mind, all backed up by our highly rated technical support.”

Cloud Student Homes operates 3,500 bed spaces across 21 UK sites and plans to install Advanced panels across its wider property portfolio.

The MxPro 5 system is approved to EN 54 Parts 2 and 4 by FM Approvals and supports multiple detector protocols, including Apollo, Argus, Hochiki and Nittan.

It includes the AlarmCalm false alarm management system, allowing sites to create virtual verification areas and provide trained occupants with an optional verification button.

The panels also feature a building management system (BMS) and graphics interface, enabling connection to multiple PCs for control and monitoring.

Technical and project context for engineers and contractors

Advanced, part of Halma PLC, supplies intelligent fire systems for single-panel installations and large multi-site networks.

The company’s product range includes detection, control, suppression and emergency lighting systems.

The Canterbury project demonstrates how open-protocol, networked systems can support phased upgrades without interruption to fire protection.

Relevance for contractors, designers and accommodation operators

This project highlights how system installers and fire engineers can coordinate complex replacements while maintaining active protection for occupied buildings.

For contractors and consultants, the MxPro 5’s compatibility with multiple detector protocols and hybrid connectivity reduces design limitations and supports phased work in live environments.

For accommodation operators, integration with access, lift and AOV systems provides full-building coordination and centralised alarm management through the ARC connection.

The planned rollout across Cloud Student Homes’ wider portfolio shows growing demand for adaptable, networked fire safety infrastructure in the purpose-built student accommodation sector.