Blackline Safety named among Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2025

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionSafety

Blackline Safety recognised for workplace safety technology

Blackline Safety has been included in Fast Company’s 2025 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies.

Fast Company publishes an annual ranking highlighting organisations making advancements in their respective industries.

Blackline Safety was named alongside companies such as Waymo, Nvidia, and Kraft Heinz.

The recognition was based on Blackline’s work in connected safety technology, which aims to improve workplace safety through real-time data, live monitoring, and automated alerts.

Cody Slater, Blackline Safety CEO and Chair, said: “We’re proud to be recognised by Fast Company for leading the transformation of workplace safety, helping organisations protect their people with smarter, more reliable solutions.”

Expansion of connected safety solutions

Blackline Safety provides connected wearable devices, portable area monitors, and cloud-based software to support workplace safety.

These technologies enable real-time monitoring and incident detection.

In 2024, the company expanded its product range with the introduction of the EXO 8 area monitor.

The device is designed for industrial and emergency response environments, offering rapid deployment and gas and gamma detection capabilities.

The company states that its solutions help teams respond faster, prevent incidents, and improve decision-making through real-time safety insights.

Fast Company’s recognition of industry leaders

Fast Company’s annual Most Innovative Companies list features businesses that it identifies as shaping their industries through creativity and technological advancement.

The 2025 list includes companies recognised for their contributions across multiple sectors.

The publication states that its selection criteria focus on organisations that are setting new benchmarks for performance, innovation, and industry progress.

The full list of honourees is available online and will be published in print on 25 March.

Blackline Safety named among Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2025: Summary

Blackline Safety has been included in Fast Company’s 2025 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies.

The ranking acknowledges businesses making industry advancements.

Blackline Safety was recognised for its role in developing connected safety technology, which includes real-time monitoring, automated incident alerts, and location-based insights.

In 2024, the company launched the EXO 8 area monitor, designed for rapid deployment in industrial and emergency response settings.

The device enhances gas and gamma detection capabilities.

Fast Company’s annual list highlights companies it identifies as industry leaders through innovation and impact.

The full list is available online and will be published in print on 25 March.

Northumbrian Water Group selects Blackline Safety for worker protection

by ConstructionFeatured NewsHealth and SafetyPPESafety

Blackline Safety technology adopted at Northumbrian Water treatment sites

Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) has chosen Blackline Safety’s connected safety technology to enhance worker protection at two of its water treatment sites in the UK.

The company, which supplies water and wastewater treatment services to nearly five million people across northeast and southeast England, is the eighth UK water company to implement Blackline’s safety devices.

Blackline’s cloud-connected G7c personal gas wearable and EXO area monitor will be used to consolidate gas detection, communication, and lone worker connectivity into a single system.

Safety concerns drive adoption of connected safety devices

NWG’s decision to invest in Blackline Safety technology follows industry-wide concerns about worker exposure to hazardous gases, contaminated water, combustible gas explosions, and the risks associated with lone work and confined space entry.

A fatal explosion at another UK water company’s treatment plant, where four workers lost their lives, also influenced the decision to enhance safety measures.

Dan Woodward, Process Safety Business Partner at NWG, said: “Feedback we were getting from the team on-site was that they just want to do their jobs but had too many devices, apps and things to think about, and anything we could do to simplify the process would be beneficial for everyone.”

Limitations of previous safety equipment

NWG had previously relied on portable gas monitors, mobile phones, and walkie-talkies for gas detection and communication. However, these methods had limitations, including cross-sensitivity issues leading to faulty gas readings, downtime due to off-site calibrations, and ignition risks from mobile phones in biogas-rich areas.

By integrating Blackline’s technology, NWG can now monitor high-risk areas remotely and ensure real-time communication while reducing the number of devices workers need to carry.

Early benefits of Blackline’s safety system

NWG has already identified previously undetected hazards using the new system. The EXO monitor recently detected gas levels reaching 75% of the explosive limit, triggering an immediate ‘stop work’ order and evacuation.

Additionally, the G7 wearables have helped improve worker communication and safety, with push-to-talk functionality enabling walkie-talkie-style communication. The devices also remain operational in underground environments where mobile signals are weak.

Northumbrian Water and Blackline Safety at Health & Safety Event 2025

NWG will join Blackline Safety at the Health & Safety Event in Birmingham, UK, on 9 April 2025, to discuss their approach to worker safety and the role of connected technology in mitigating risks.

Northumbrian Water Group selects Blackline Safety for worker protection: Summary

Northumbrian Water Group has adopted Blackline Safety’s connected safety technology to enhance worker protection at two water treatment sites in the UK.

The company selected the cloud-connected G7c personal gas wearable and EXO area monitor to improve gas detection, communication, and lone worker connectivity.

NWG’s investment follows concerns about worker safety risks, including exposure to hazardous gases and lone work.

A fatal explosion at another UK water company’s site also contributed to the decision.

Previously used portable gas monitors, mobile phones, and walkie-talkies presented limitations such as faulty gas readings and operational downtime.

Blackline’s system has improved efficiency, identified new safety hazards, and streamlined communication.

NWG will present its findings at the Health & Safety Event in Birmingham on 9 April 2025, alongside Blackline Safety.

Blackline Safety earns MASE health and safety certification in France

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Blackline Safety secures MASE certification for health and safety standards

Blackline Safety SAS has announced its recent achievement of the MASE (Manual d’Amélioration Sécurité des Entreprises) certification in France.

As reported by Blackline Safety, the certification recognises the company’s commitment to embedding enhanced health, safety, and environmental practices across its operations.

MASE certification aims to improve workplace safety and environmental sustainability through structured programmes involving both workers and infrastructure, including vehicles and facilities.

Blackline Safety’s CEO and Chair, Cody Slater, said: “MASE certification reflects our long-term vision of creating a safer, more sustainable workplace for our customers, partners and employees.”

Employee engagement enhances safety culture

During the certification process, Blackline Safety implemented several new initiatives, such as regular safety meetings.

These changes have led to increased engagement among employees in the company’s health and safety efforts, with staff contributing ideas for improvements.

Celine Loeuillet, Manager of People Services at Blackline’s France office, highlighted employee involvement: “Since we started on the path to accreditation, our employees are more involved in making sure we’re meeting the MASE standards.

They have suggested, researched and implemented solutions for recycling beyond just the basics and reducing fuel consumption and emissions.”

Compliance strengthens ties with key industries

The MASE certification also enables Blackline Safety to share a structured health and safety programme with its clients, especially those in high-risk industries like energy and petrochemicals.

This shared framework allows for full traceability of safety compliance and related events, which helps streamline health and safety management for these sectors.

Blackline Safety’s newly acquired certification complements existing accreditations, providing added value to its clients by demonstrating rigorous adherence to safety protocols.

MASE certification expands Blackline’s international accreditation portfolio

The MASE certification adds to Blackline Safety’s existing list of international accreditations, which includes ISO 14001, ISO 9001, and SOC 2 Type II certifications.

These accreditations ensure the company’s commitment to safety, quality, and environmental responsibility, alongside PAS 2060 Carbon Neutral verification for its European operations.

The MASE certification marks another step in Blackline Safety’s ongoing efforts to maintain high standards of health, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Blackline Safety earns MASE health and safety certification in France: Summary

Blackline Safety SAS has achieved MASE certification in France, affirming its commitment to improved health, safety, and environmental practices.

This certification, recognised across industries, particularly energy and petrochemicals, enables the company to provide complete traceability of safety compliance to its clients.

Employees at Blackline Safety have shown increased involvement in safety initiatives since the process began, contributing suggestions for improving recycling and reducing emissions.

The certification joins Blackline’s other international accreditations, including ISO and PAS 2060 Carbon Neutral verification for its Europe office, further strengthening its reputation for safety and environmental excellence.

Blackline Safety achieves carbon neutrality for European operations

by Featured NewsSustainability

Blackline Safety Europe’s carbon neutrality verification

Blackline Safety has announced that its European operations have been independently verified as carbon neutral for all measured emissions during the previous fiscal year, as reported by Blackline Safety.

Certification organisation NQA was responsible for the verification against the internationally recognised standard for carbon neutrality, PAS 2060.

Blackline Safety, headquartered in Canada with offices in the UK, France, U.S., and UAE, manufactures and provides monitoring services for its connected safety wearable and area gas monitors, used by more than 2,200 organisations and protecting over 165,000 workers worldwide.

Carbon neutrality initiative

Lacey Griffin, Blackline Safety’s Quality & Compliance Co-ordinator for UK & Europe, said: “The company began the journey to carbon neutrality across our global business as part of our commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives, which have been evidenced in our annual ESG report since 2020.”

Last year, Blackline Safety Europe announced the results of its first-ever Carbon Footprint report, commissioned to track both direct and indirect carbon emissions and conducted with carbon consultants Auditel.

Griffin added: “As a result of the report and subsequent emissions reduction plan for each site, we have successfully achieved our goal and verified our status.”

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol

Blackline Safety Europe’s carbon footprint was calculated in line with the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol emission scopes.

This includes direct emissions from the combustion of gas and other fuels, emissions from the generation of purchased electricity and other energy, and emissions by third parties in connection with operational activities.

The company is now working towards gaining the new ISO 14068 Climate Change Management Standard.

Griffin explained: “Blackline Safety understands the importance of protecting the communities in which we operate and the world as a whole, and will continue to play our part in protecting the environment and providing a sustainable future for the generations to come.”

Future commitments

Griffin also stated: “Our European operations will continue to measure our carbon footprint and identify and implement emission reduction plans, while being true to our overarching company values of driving innovation, resiliency, demonstrating leadership, going the extra mile, and empowering people.”

Electric vehicle fires: Managing a new risk for hazmat teams with Blackline Safety

by Breaking NewsSafety

By Doug Mayer, Business Development, Fire Services Specialist, Blackline Safety

As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular in urban transportation—including e-bikes and e-scooters—the risk of EV battery fires poses new challenges for first responders. These fires can be difficult to extinguish and may emit hazardous gases, necessitating specialized equipment and strategies for effective management. 

In responding to EV battery fires, connected multi-gas detectors have emerged as a game-changer. These devices leverage cloud-connectivity, location technology, customizable gas cartridges, and advanced analytics. The result is enhanced situational awareness, improved response times, and comprehensive gas detection to get ahead of risk and prevent EV fires from escalating.

Usage of EVs continues to grow exponentially. So do the risks to first responders.

Unexpected, long-lasting hazardous off-gases

EVs batteries, primarily lithium-ion, can catch fire and produce gases such as hydrogen fluoride (HF), which are not normally encountered during combustion engine fires. Once a lithium-ion battery catches fire, it can be difficult to extinguish and can continue burning, generating hazardous off gases for several hours. It can even reignite after being put out.

Responding to EV battery fires requires connected gas detection equipment to ensure the safety of both responders and communities. Traditional gas detectors may not be sufficient for detecting the unique hazards associated with EV fires, emphasizing the need for advanced sensors such as lower-explosive-limit molecular property spectrometers (LEL-MPS), HF sensors, oxygen (O2) sensors, and carbon monoxide (CO) sensors.

“This is a new hazard not seen in the industry to date and fire hazmat teams right now run the risk of not having the right gas detection equipment to properly protect them,” said Travis Rebello, Firefighter / HazMat Technician

“Knowing what gases are present allows us to make quick decisions that put their safety—and the safety of communities—first.”

Early detection critical

In EVs, where the presence of volatile, potential ignition substances such as fuel or battery electrolytes can escalate a fire incident. Gas detectors with LEL-MPS sensors can provide early warnings by detecting flammable gases, like hydrogen and methane, and trigger an alarm, allowing responders to take immediate action to prevent further escalation. CO is also generated during heating and fire, providing pre-warning of a potential thermal runaway (i.e. when an incident occurs where one exothermal process triggers other processes, finally resulting in an uncontrollable increase in temperature).

Proactively monitor risk

If an EV battery is at risk of thermal runaway, it needs to be transported to a storage location or facility where gas levels can be continuously monitored to ensure they remain within a safe threshold. Connected area monitors are ideal for this situation. They can be set up where the batteries are being stored and then gas levels can be continuously monitored from any remote location via an online dashboard. If gas levels rise above a set threshold, alarm notifications will be sent so that a response team can quell the situation before a fire occurs. And with a 100+ day battery life the portable area monitor can ensure the safety of the batteries’ storage for an extended period.

“Equipment that can detect precursor gases from battery failures is critical to being proactive in reducing the impact of EV fires,” said Bobby Salvesen, co-host of The Haz Mat Guys Podcast.

“Having the ability to directly measure potential gases present will allow members to know whether a situation is in the process of runaway or propagation or not.”

Managing the response

As an EV fire unfolds, O2 sensors can identify oxygen-depleted or oxygen-enriched environments, which can significantly impact the spread and severity of a fire. O2 sensors can assist in evaluating the effectiveness of fire suppression systems, ensuring a safe environment for responders and civilians.

Also critical are HF sensors, specifically designed to detect these hazardous substances not normally encountered in other combustion engine fires.

“HF is a toxic and corrosive gas that poses severe health risks to both humans and the environment” said Salvesen.

“By integrating HF sensors into gas detection solutions, responders can quickly identify and mitigate the risks associated with HF gas, enhancing their safety and the effectiveness of fire response efforts.”

Flexible equipment for the situation

Given the multiple gas hazards present in EV fires, gas detection equipment that enables multiple sensor combinations and hot swappable cartridges offers the best protection, allowing first responders to quickly adapt to the situation on scene.

“Your standard 4 gas meter may not give you the whole picture in a battery event. A meter that has a different sensor configuration to measure flammability and the presence of these specific toxic gases will go a long way to ensuring members’ safety,” added Salvesen.

For example, Blackline Safety’s G7 wearable connected multi-gas detectors can detect up to five gases simultaneously (with a portfolio of up to 20 gases to choose from) with swappable cartridges that can be configured to match the situation or address evolving needs.

Real-time visibility, reliable connectivity

Cloud-connected equipment allows incident commanders to see what is happening in real-time—even from a remote command center —so they can make data-informed safety decisions.

For example, instant alerts and notifications of location-stamped gas readings let incident commanders know exactly where gases are present and which personnel are at risk, allowing them to make decisions on where to direct responders and to take immediate action to prevent further escalation.

Data-informed incident management

Connected safety solutions advance EV fire response by providing real-time gas level insights, personnel location information and early toxic and flammable substance detection. This data empowers incident commanders to make informed decisions on evacuation routes and resource allocation.

Gas detectors with LEL-MPS, O2, CO, and HF sensors are crucial as they offer early warning capabilities and enable rapid response to potential fire hazards. They ensure prompt identification of flammable gases, oxygen levels and toxic substances, thereby preventing fire escalation and safeguarding lives.

This article was originally published in the April 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Blackline Safety secures $1.4 million contract for lone worker devices in Australia

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Blackline Safety Corp., a company specialising in connected safety technology, has secured a new $1.4 million contract with a water utility provider in Australia.

This agreement involves the supply of Blackline’s Loner Mobile app and G7c cloud-connected safety devices.

The contract follows an independent analysis which identified Blackline Safety devices as the leading lone worker solution globally.

Details of the contract and technology

The latest deal is part of a series of successful contracts between Blackline Safety and water utility providers.

Blackline’s technology is known for features such as SOS latch, fall and no motion detection, and real-time connectivity, which are essential for ensuring worker safety in emergency situations.

Currently, these devices are used by half of the water and wastewater companies in the United Kingdom.

Vice President of International Sales at Blackline Safety, Peter Attalla, highlighted the suitability of their devices for the utility sector: “Our devices are particularly well suited to the utility industry, including water and wastewater,” said Attalla.

“People in these fields are at elevated risk when they go to work.”

The demand for comprehensive safety solutions

Utility workers often face various hazards including gas exposures, confined spaces, and extreme weather conditions.

Blackline’s products address these challenges by offering a turnkey solution that does not require extensive infrastructure or complex setups.

The Australian utility provider has also committed to three years of monitoring services through Blackline’s in-house Safety Operations Center, which operates 24/7.

Director of Blackline Safety’s Safety Operations Center, Heather Melder, also commented on the standards set by their products combined with monitoring services: “Blackline products, combined with our SOC monitoring, set the standard for the safest lone worker solution on the market,” said Melder.

“We’ve raised the bar in ensuring workers are safe while on the job—they’re protected because they’re connected.”

IFSJ Comment

The continuous adoption of Blackline Safety’s technology by major utility providers underscores the critical role of advanced safety solutions in high-risk industries.

By integrating state-of-the-art technology with comprehensive support services, Blackline enhances the safety of utility workers.

Blackline Safety secures multi-million contract with renowned North American energy company

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsSafety

Blackline Safety’s innovative approach to worker safety

Blackline Safety Corp., an international forerunner in safety technology, has secured a $3.5 million deal with a top-tier North American energy firm active in the natural gas, oil, and power sectors.

Providing enhanced safety tools for over 850 employees

This energy conglomerate has opted for Blackline Safety to supply more than 850 G7x cloud-connected wearable safety devices for their staff.

These employees, frequently found in challenging, remote, or confined spaces, stand to benefit immensely from this technology.

Additionally, the firm invested in over 850 G7 Bridges, acting as portable base stations, ensuring uninterrupted communication even in areas with limited connectivity.

In a move to facilitate easy compliance procedures, upwards of 230 G7 Docks were also acquired, offering a straightforward method for calibrating, bump testing, and charging the G7 instruments.

Commenting on this collaboration, Sean Stinson, Blackline Safety’s President and Chief Growth Officer, mentioned: “The energy company initially sampled our safety solutions at a single location.

“Our remarkable real-time connectivity and insights from Blackline Analytics: caught their attention.”

Furthermore, Stinson elaborated: “Our technology’s capability to promptly alert them when and where assistance is crucial—even in secluded or distant areas lacking mobile coverage—was a decisive factor.

“The firm is now standardising on Blackline devices to shield their North American workforce.”

Blackline Safety: A month of impressive contracts

This is the third significant agreement that Blackline Safety has announced this month.

Previous contracts, with the fire hazmat and Middle East energy sectors, have equally underscored the value of Blackline’s real-time connectivity in sealing the deals.

Conveying his excitement, Stinson said: “It’s heartening to observe a rising number of companies acknowledging the merits of connected gas detection and lone worker systems.

“These firms are putting their employees’ safety first, ensuring they undertake tasks confidently and return home without harm.

“With Blackline’s all-encompassing solutions, they can offer this assurance and simultaneously boost operational efficacy.”

IFSJ Comment

In today’s era where the safety of workers, especially within hazardous environments, is of the utmost priority, the integration of advanced technology becomes pivotal.

Blackline Safety’s accomplishment in landing this contract underscores the escalating emphasis on real-time connectivity in bolstering safety precautions for employees.

Such strides not only elevate the standard of worker safety but also manifest the dedication of corporations towards the well-being of their workforce.

The trend towards adopting such state-of-the-art technologies paints a promising and safer landscape for professionals operating in risk-laden industries.

Middle East energy giants turn to Blackline Safety for worker protection

by Featured NewsFire DetectionMiddle East - ProjectsProjects

Leading energy companies from Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have collaborated with Blackline Safety, a pioneering name in connected safety technology, for worker protection.

New contracts exceed $1.3 million

In a recent announcement from Calgary, Canada, Blackline Safety Corp. revealed that they have clinched deals worth more than $1.3 million over the past six months with three top energy brands from the Middle East.

The significant purchase includes 1,200 G7c and 200 G7x portable gas detectors, 50 G7 EXO area gas monitors, and 40 G7 Bridges.

These tools are geared towards ensuring the safety of their workforce at diverse locations across the Middle East.

Several equipment deliveries have been fulfilled, and the remaining hardware and service revenue will be accrued within the forthcoming year.

Blackline Safety: Setting the benchmark in connected safety

The company’s holistic solution for lone worker and gas detection not only augments frontline worker safety but also refines operations by offering insights from real-time data.

This puts Blackline Safety at a vantage point to grasp the burgeoning global connected worker industry, which projects a compound annual growth rate of 20 percent.

Peter Attalla, Vice President, International Sales remarked: “The contracts we’ve secured represent fresh connected gas detection agreements.

“Our clients are increasingly seeking connected safety in diverse and remote environments.

“It’s evident that only Blackline Safety can meet this demand, offering real-time insights into on-field worker experiences.”

He further elaborated on the company’s growing rapport with their clientele, saying: “Consistent positive feedback and the unparalleled reliability and real-time capability of our devices make us the preferred choice.

“We initiated by introducing our lone worker solution, and now our clients are investing in our comprehensive gas detection product suite.”

This is the second instance in 2023 where the company has announced notable contracts in the Middle East.

Earlier in January, Blackline was designated a favoured supplier for a prominent energy enterprise in a deal that surpassed $1 million.

Their rental business is also witnessing an uptick, especially for the G7c and G7 EXO devices in Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Endorsing the company’s growing influence, Attalla stated: “The escalating growth indicates our global appeal.

“Firms globally are committed to safeguarding their employees at work.

“Blackline’s solutions resonate with this ethos, instilling confidence in workers to execute their roles safely.”

IFSJ Comment

The alignment of leading Middle Eastern energy companies with Blackline Safety underscores a pivotal trend in global safety standards.

As industries rapidly evolve, the emphasis on connected safety technology grows equally crucial.

Blackline Safety’s inroads into the Middle East, marked by their significant contracts, exemplify this shift.

It’s heartening to see companies prioritise their frontline workers, ensuring not only efficiency but also safety, through technology.

This collaboration serves as a testament to the future of workplace safety, where real-time data and advanced devices become fundamental.

Connected safety program announced by Blackline Safety

by Breathing ApparatusFeatured NewsProducts

Blackline Safety Corp. a leader in connected safety technology, has announced a $2 million (£1.3 million) deal with Coventry, England-based Severn Trent Water – UK’s second largest water company – for connected personal gas detection devices to protect its employees and support its digital transformation.

With this new deal, Blackline Safety will protect more than 10,000 workers across six of the 12 UK water and wastewater authorities that now use Blackline’s industry-leading technology.

Earlier this month, Severn Trent began the deployment of the first 1,650 Blackline G7c wearable devices.  Over the coming months, the water authority will replace their existing gas detection units with more than 2,600 Blackline Safety G7c wearable devices and associated services.

The three-year investment, secured via Blackline Verwood, UK-based distribution partner Breathe Safety, includes an option to extend for an additional five years of service, which would bring the total value to more than $4.2 million (£2.7 million). Breathe Safety is leading the implementation and device rollout with Severn Trent.

Julian Jarvis, UK Zone Manager, Blackline Safety, said: “The value of real-time cloud-connected data, paired with scalable technology that adapts to changing work environments, allows Blackline to continue to see strong adoption of our connected safety solutions across the water and wastewater industry, providing water and wastewater services to over 26.6 million customers – almost 40% of the population of the UK.”

Blackline Safety announces equipment trade-in programme

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentProducts

Blackline Safety Corp, a global leader in connected safety technology, has unveiled an equipment trade-in program designed to make it easier for fire departments and emergency response teams to acquire cutting-edge gas detection equipment and the monitoring software.

The Blackline Safety program allows fire departments and emergency response departments to trade in older safety monitoring equipment that is either end-of-life or not working properly, in exchange for credit towards the purchase of next-generation Blackline Safety G7 EXO area monitors or G7 personal gas detectors.

“Emergency responders are in a class of their own when it comes to safety,” said Blackline Safety Business Development Specialist Doug Mayer. “They need to be prepared to face any situation in order to protect not only themselves, but potentially the community at large. It’s critical they have the most advanced safety monitoring technology at their fingertips.”

The incentive is important because fire departments and response teams are relied on to use the best methods and equipment available to enhance safety, yet most are publicly funded and therefore have tight budgets. “We’re taking old equipment off their hands and giving them an affordable way to upgrade to a replacement that is leading edge,” Mayer explained.

The opportunity to upgrade also gives first responders access to equipment with longer battery life, ensuring it outlasts even the longest response scenario.

“In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to be prepared around the clock for the unexpected,” he said. “We can help and we offer free evaluations of all our technologies.”

More information about the trade-in program can be found at: www.blacklinesafety.com/refresh