Siderise curtain wall firestop system named Architectural Record Product of the Year

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Siderise system wins Architectural Record award

Siderise has announced that its CW-FS Firestop and CW-CB Cavity Barrier system has been named a 2025 Architectural Record Product of the Year in the Building Systems & Materials category.

The recognition comes from the New York based architecture and design publication Architectural Record, which highlighted innovation, performance integrity and contributions to the built environment.

The award relates to the CW-FS and CW-CB configuration for modern curtain wall façades and perimeter joints.

Siderise introduced the system to the US market in January 2025 after an extended programme of testing, research and refinement.

The company presents the solution as a passive fire protection option for projects that must accommodate façade movement and complex geometry at the slab edge.

Curtain wall firestopping engineered for movement

According to Siderise, the CW-FS and CW-CB combination is built around its Lamella vertical fibre stone wool construction.

This material arrangement is described as maintaining form, fit and fire performance as the façade and structure move over time.

The company sees this behaviour as especially important at the perimeter joint, where deflection and changes in joint width can be pronounced.

The system is intended for use with curtain wall assemblies where maintaining a reliable fire resisting seal under service movement is a design requirement.

Siderise states that the Lamella construction supports long term perimeter fire containment where traditional firestopping approaches may be challenged by movement.

Modular system and technical support package

The CW-FS Firestop and CW-CB Cavity Barrier system is offered as a modular solution to simplify specification and installation.

Siderise manufactures pre cut sections in a range of widths to tight tolerances for repetition in standard details.

The firm also supplies sheet material for adaptation on site when façade joints or cavity conditions fall outside typical configurations.

To support accurate specification, Siderise provides Digital Specification Packs that collate current technical datasheets, certifications, BIM objects and specification clauses.

Project teams can receive detailed technical submittals that align with particular building geometries and stated performance criteria.

Design stage guidance is available for architects, façade engineers and fire consultants working through curtain wall interface details.

The company also refers to site services delivered through the Siderise app, including training, benchmark constructions and installation inspections.

These tools are presented as a way of helping project teams align in service performance with the results achieved in laboratory testing.

Siderise comments on Architectural Record recognition

Brad Davis, Head of Commercial, Siderise North America, welcomed the Architectural Record Product of the Year award for the curtain wall system.

Brad Davis, Head of Commercial, Siderise North America, said: “We are honored to receive this recognition from Architectural Record,”

“The CW-FS and CW-CB system for curtain walling reflects our commitment to engineering passive fire protection solutions that are not only robust and resilient, but that support design teams with transparent, specification-ready information.

“This award reinforces the importance of providing movement-tolerant systems that safeguard perimeter fire containment over the entire design life of the building.”

NIST engineer honoured for wildfire research in the United States

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Image credit: NIST

U.S. fire researcher awarded for public service impact

Alexander Maranghides of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has received a 2025 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal for his research into protecting people and buildings from wildfire.

According to NIST, the award recognises 25 years of work investigating destructive fires and producing guidance to help reduce future loss of life and property.

The medals, presented by the nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, honour federal employees whose work improves national outcomes.

The group said around 30 honourees are selected annually from a workforce of two million.

The medals are widely known as the “Sammies”.

Research examined community-level wildfire devastation

NIST explained that Maranghides’ approach to wildfire research involves analysing full-scale incidents in depth, identifying the factors that influenced their impact and documenting actionable guidance.

His recent investigation of the 2018 Camp Fire in California included interviews with emergency responders and high-detail disaster mapping.

The report spanned more than 1,000 pages and included laboratory tests and field analysis.

Key questions included how and why structures failed, how fires spread, and whether warnings reached residents in time to evacuate.

The organisation said these findings form the foundation for improved public safety practices.

Guidance now used by fire-prone communities

Maranghides’ work resulted in two programmes: the Hazard Mitigation Methodology (HMM) and Evacuation and Sheltering Considerations — Assessment, Planning, and Execution (ESCAPE).

HMM gives advice on structure protection, including how to prevent embers from entering homes and how to safely store combustible materials.

ESCAPE provides tools for emergency planning, with guidance on how to prepare evacuation routes and temporary refuge areas.

NIST said both systems were developed through community engagement and are now being adopted in locations at high risk of wildfire.

Maranghides said: “Those two programs are the most important work I’ve done over my career.”

Award celebrates collaborative fire safety efforts

Joannie Chin, Director of NIST’s Engineering Laboratory, said: “For more than two decades, Alex has demonstrated an unmatched ability to identify the most important lessons from wildfires.

“He then uses a variety of tools to convey these lessons to state and local officials in ways that they can understand the problem and develop solutions tailored to protect their communities.”

NIST added that the award reflects the broader contribution of federal agencies to disaster risk reduction.

The institute supports efforts across multiple hazards, including hurricanes, earthquakes and tornadoes.

In 2024, NIST researchers Marc Levitan and Long Phan were honoured with the same award for their work on tornado-resistant building codes.

Selection committee reflects cross-sector recognition

According to the Partnership for Public Service, the award selection committee includes figures from government, media, academia and the private sector.

The awards are named after Samuel J. Heyman, a businessman who supported the advancement of public service.

The partnership described the medals as recognition for public servants making the United States “better, safer, and stronger”.

Full details of the awards and recipients can be found on the Service to America website.

NIST engineer honoured for wildfire research in the United States: Summary

Alexander Maranghides of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has been named a 2025 recipient of the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal.

The award was announced by the Partnership for Public Service.

It recognises Maranghides’ 25-year career investigating major U.S. wildfires and creating guidance to improve building and evacuation safety.

His most recent research focused on the 2018 Camp Fire in California.

The resulting report exceeded 1,000 pages and included field investigations, laboratory testing and firefighter interviews.

Maranghides’ work has led to two public safety programmes: HMM and ESCAPE.

These programmes provide detailed advice for community wildfire protection and emergency planning.

The initiatives are being adopted in U.S. regions with high wildfire risk.

NIST Director Joannie Chin praised Maranghides’ ability to translate research into practical guidance.

The Service to America Medal is awarded annually to around 30 federal employees.

Honourees are selected by a committee of leaders across multiple sectors.

Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year 2025 awarded to Washington official

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Recognition for long-term public safety efforts in Washington state

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has reported that Shawneri Guzman has been named the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year.

Guzman is a fire and life safety educator at South County Fire in Washington state.

She will be formally recognised during the Stars at Night Awards gala at the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas on Sunday 15 June.

The NFPA stated that the annual award is presented to one educator based in the United States or Canada who is employed by a fire department or fire marshal’s office and has shown consistent commitment to using NFPA’s educational tools.

The association added that recipients must demonstrate strong community engagement and innovation in addressing fire safety education.

Use of NFPA programmes and digital tools cited in award decision

The NFPA said Guzman was selected due to her continued integration of NFPA education programmes and tools into local initiatives since joining South County Fire in 2017.

It noted that she has applied NFPA resources to expand public awareness on topics including cooking safety, escape planning and older adult fire prevention.

According to the NFPA, Guzman also uses CRAIG 1300, a community risk assessment platform developed by NFPA, to analyse local demographics and design targeted public outreach.

The association stated that her approach to data-informed safety planning has contributed to improved community understanding of fire risks and preventative measures.

Additional safety initiatives and community impact

The NFPA reported that Guzman supports a wide range of injury prevention efforts beyond fire safety.

It said these include child passenger safety and advocacy for working smoke alarms in homes at the point of sale, including her involvement in the passing of the Gibby Act in Washington.

The association also noted her support for refugee communities through inclusive safety education.

Upcoming recognition at NFPA Conference and Expo

According to the NFPA, Guzman will be recognised at its annual Stars at Night Awards gala.

The event will be held on Sunday 15 June in Las Vegas as part of the 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo.

The NFPA added that the gala serves to honour professionals who have made measurable contributions to fire and life safety across North America.

Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year 2025 awarded to Washington official: Summary

Shawneri Guzman has been named the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year.

The announcement was made by the National Fire Protection Association.

Guzman is employed by South County Fire in Washington state.

She will receive the award at the Stars at Night Awards gala on 15 June.

The gala will take place during the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

The NFPA said the award recognises educators using its resources to improve fire safety.

It said Guzman integrates NFPA programmes into her department and local community.

She uses CRAIG 1300 to develop risk-informed outreach strategies.

The NFPA stated that she promotes smoke alarm use, cooking safety and education for older adults.

It also highlighted her work on child injury prevention and smoke alarm legislation.

She was involved in the passage of the Gibby Act in Washington.

The association said she supports refugee communities through her outreach.

The NFPA described her as having over 20 years of safety education experience.

She joined South County Fire in 2017.

Kilwinning Community Fire Station’s long-time support team member honoured at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for community contributions

by Featured NewsPeople

Award recognition for support team member Annie Chapman

Annie Chapman, a long-time cook at Kilwinning Community Fire Station, was recently honoured at the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for her contributions to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and her local community.

According to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Chapman has served firefighters and staff throughout Ayrshire for over 21 years, currently working out of the Kilwinning station.

Her contributions, both professionally and through additional community engagement efforts, led to her receiving the Support Team Member of the Year award at this year’s ceremony.

The Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards celebrate the efforts of emergency services personnel who serve local communities.

As part of her role, Chapman has provided meals to support firefighters returning from incidents, while also actively engaging with community initiatives, such as addressing food poverty and supporting elderly neighbours.

Annie Chapman’s community involvement

Beyond her responsibilities at the station, Chapman plays an active role in community events, particularly during the festive season when she dons the role of Mrs Claus at Kilwinning Community Fire Station.

She invites members of the community to participate in seasonal activities, helping foster a welcoming environment for local residents.

This gesture, alongside her support for broader community initiatives, exemplifies the values the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service seeks to uphold.

Area Commander and Local Senior Officer for Ayrshire, Ian McMeekin, praised Chapman’s commitment, noting her dedication to the Kilwinning crews and the community: “Annie is conscientious and dedicated, going above and beyond to provide hot meals for the Kilwinning crews returning from an incident.

“Her kindness however extends beyond her job description. Whether supporting activities to tackle food poverty, assisting elderly neighbours with health concerns, supporting staff, or contributing to community engagement initiatives at the station, Annie embodies the values of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in everything she does.”

Other award recipients at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards

The awards ceremony also acknowledged other contributions across Ayrshire’s emergency services.

Stewarton Community Fire Station’s on-call firefighters received Team of the Year, recognised for their work in local fire safety and emergency response.

Additionally, firefighter Stephen McAnespie from Dreghorn Community Fire Station was recognised for his work with beehives across Ayrshire’s fire stations, a unique initiative aimed at supporting environmental conservation.

Another individual, Lee Swanston, was commended for his efforts with the Youth Volunteer Scheme, an SFRS programme aimed at engaging young people in emergency services education and community service.

These awards highlight a variety of ways that emergency personnel contribute to the wellbeing of Ayrshire’s communities.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to community values

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s involvement in the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards underscores the organisation’s dedication to recognising personnel who go beyond their professional duties.

The awards honour a range of services, from firefighting and rescue efforts to community education and environmental initiatives.

By celebrating individuals like Chapman, McAnespie, and Swanston, the SFRS and its partners acknowledge the lasting impact of dedicated service on both colleagues and local communities.

Kilwinning Community Fire Station’s Annie Chapman honoured at Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards for community contributions: Summary

Annie Chapman, a support team member at Kilwinning Community Fire Station, was awarded Support Team Member of the Year at the Ayrshire Tri-Services Awards, recognising her 21 years of service with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Chapman’s role extends beyond cooking for the Kilwinning crews; she also engages in numerous community initiatives, from addressing food poverty to seasonal community events.

Area Commander Ian McMeekin praised her dedication, noting her alignment with SFRS values.

Other honourees included Stewarton Community Fire Station as Team of the Year and firefighter Stephen McAnespie for his work with local beehives.

The awards highlight the essential roles played by emergency service personnel in supporting the well-being of Ayrshire communities.

Dedicated fire safety expert receives IOSH award

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

A career dedicated to fire safety earns prestigious recognition

Gary Laird, a retired member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), has been honoured with the President’s Distinguished Service Award (PDSA) for his extensive contribution to the field of fire safety.

The award was presented to Laird by IOSH President Stuart Hughes during a recent meeting of the Fire Risk Management Group, acknowledging over a decade of Laird’s commitment to the group and his enduring service to the IOSH Yorkshire Branch.

With a career spanning more than fifty years in safety-related roles, Laird dedicated 35 years to the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, focusing on operational fire safety and fire investigation.

His journey continued at Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council, where he served as Senior Health and Safety Advisor for 15 years.

Following this period, Laird established his own consultancy and has been actively involved in volunteering, notably on the governing body of a local school and for IOSH.

Supporting the IOSH vision through leadership and education

Laird’s leadership roles within the Fire Risk Management Group, including terms as chair and vice-chair, have seen him support numerous safety-led events and collaborate with Richard Jones, IOSH’s former Head of Policy, on fire safety initiatives.

His recent efforts have been directed towards the development of a ‘Back to Basics’ series on fire safety, encompassing a textbook, distance learning programmes, guidance publications, and webinars aimed at Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) professionals.

Recognition and reflections on a distinguished service

Upon receiving the award, Laird expressed his gratitude and reflected on his experiences: “I am very pleased to accept the award.

“I have met and worked with some inspirational people, have presented in Hong Kong, Bulgaria, Switzerland, and numerous locations in the UK.

“I’ve also presented on the terrace of the House of Commons, represented IOSH at the Fire Sector Federation and the Parliamentary All Party Fire and Rescue Group.

“Fire Safety is as important today as ever, due to complacency which needs to be addressed.”

Stuart Hughes highlighted the qualities that Laird embodies and the impact of his work: “Some words listed in the nomination that nicely sum up the person Gary is – knowledgeable, calm but enthusiastic, supportive, passionate, considered, professional, wants to make a difference, cares about lives.

“It’s due to volunteers like yourself that we are able to move that step closer to our vision of a safe and healthy world of work.”

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of Gary Laird with the President’s Distinguished Service Award by IOSH underscores the vital role of dedication and expertise in advancing fire safety.

Laird’s extensive career and voluntary service have contributed to the body of knowledge and practice in fire safety, exemplifying the profound impact of committed professionals in shaping a safer and healthier work environment.

His work, particularly in education and advocacy, serves as a testament to the importance of addressing complacency and continuously promoting fire safety awareness.