NSI and BAFE report finds 94 per cent of buyers prioritise competence over cost in fire safety

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Certified competence becomes primary driver in fire safety procurement

UK organisations are increasingly prioritising evidence of competence over service cost when appointing fire protection providers.

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) and BAFE Fire Safety Register (BAFE) commissioned the Fire Safety Report 2026 to examine changing procurement trends.

Findings indicate that 94% of decision makers now value proof of competence more than the price of the service.

This data suggests a move away from price-led procurement as 81% of respondents stated that certified providers are worth the additional expense.

Independent auditing and certification were ranked among the strongest signals of trust by 79% of those surveyed.

Furthermore 83% of participants recognise third party certification as a verified method to demonstrate the competence of fire assessors.

Investment in the sector is also projected to grow with 77% of organisations expecting to increase their spending over the coming five years.

Among those who claim full awareness of their legal obligations this figure rises to 85%.

Growing scrutiny of fire safety compliance and legal duties

While awareness of fire protection has improved over the last decade many individuals responsible for risk management remain uncertain about their specific legal duties.

The research established that 89% of decision makers view fire protection as a strategic business priority.

Despite this increased status fire safety was ranked fifth in overall importance behind general health and safety and cost control.

Approximately 59% of buyers describe their current investment levels as high.

The report noted that 93% of respondents see more action on fire protection than was evident five years ago.

A total of 45% of organisations view these measures as a compliance necessity.

In contrast 34% see it as a moral duty and 21% believe it supports wider business operations.

One in four decision makers believes that fire protection is still not treated with sufficient seriousness within their organisation.

The report states: “Buyers are looking for reassurance.”

“As fire safety awareness grows, buyers become less willing to take reputational or legal risks with unverified suppliers.”

“In today’s market, it is no longer enough to say you are competent.”

“You need to show it, prove it, and have it verified independently.”

The full report is available via the NSI website from 1 May 2026.

Certification survey from UKTC reports transparency gaps in UK fire market

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsResearchTraining

UKTC survey reveals trust gaps in certification

United Kingdom Testing & Certification Ltd. (UKTC) has released a whitepaper stating that many UK fire safety professionals are dissatisfied with existing third-party certification schemes and are calling for more transparent processes eight years after the Grenfell Tower fire.

The company reported that 60% of surveyed professionals had experienced issues with their current certification providers.

According to UKTC, 82% of respondents said they wanted greater transparency in certification processes.

The survey, carried out among fire safety event attendees in 2024, captured comments describing some legacy schemes as having “inconsistent positions”, a “lack of transparency” and delivering a “poor value for money service”.

UKTC noted that 75% of respondents said they judge certification body credibility mainly on United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accreditation status and regulatory compliance.

Andrew Hutchison, Operations Director at UKTC, said: “Despite the proliferation of third-party certification schemes, the sector still suffers from dangerous opacity.

“Field of Application reports, classification reports and test data are routinely withheld from the public, forcing specifiers and contractors to make critical safety decisions in the dark.”

UKTC ensure links certification to the Golden Thread

In response to the survey findings, UKTC has introduced UKTC ensure as a new third-party certification scheme.

The company said this scheme has been designed explicitly around the principles of the Golden Thread framework set out in Dame Judith Hackitt’s Building a Safer Future report.

UKTC added that the programme is backed by UKAS accreditation under ISO 17065 so that every performance claim can be traced and each certificate can be verified.

The firm stated that UKTC ensure publishes all supporting documentation, including Field of Application reports and classification reports.

The scheme also provides real-time updates with version control, a secure digital vault that acts as a single source of truth for certification documents and product marking that uses QR codes to give access to performance data.

According to UKTC, the scheme accepts both British (BS) and European (EN) test evidence, as well as Extended Field of Application Reports.

The company said this approach reduces barriers to joining the scheme and creates a more open route to certification and independent verification of product performance.

Industry reports call for honest product claims

The whitepaper states that change in the product and certification market is described as non-negotiable.

It cites the Paul Morrell OBE & Anneliese Day KC Report, which sets expectations for manufacturers and conformity assessment bodies.

The report is quoted as stating: “It is for product manufacturers to develop products that do the job expected of them, and to market them honestly, making no false claims; it is for Conformity Assessment Bodies to test and assess those products against defined specifications, impartially and independently.”

UKTC positioned UKTC ensure as a response to concerns raised after the Grenfell Tower fire about how products are tested, assessed and described.

Hutchison added: “The lessons of Grenfell and subsequent inquiries cannot be ignored.

“Too often, critical voices and concerns were missed or dismissed, which cannot continue.

“Real change is long overdue, and change starts with transparent certification.”

Digital evidence and standards shaping new approach

UKTC explained that it was acquired by the SOCOTEC Group earlier in 2025.

The company said the new scheme reflects a wider move toward digital, accessible and version-controlled evidence frameworks referenced in government reports and British Standards.

The whitepaper links the UKTC ensure model to the approach set out in BS 8644-1:2022 for managing fire safety information across a product’s lifecycle.

According to UKTC, the secure digital vault and real-time updates are intended to keep performance data current for those who specify, install and maintain products.

The firm stated that QR code product marking is aimed at giving users direct access to certification evidence at the point of use.

Matthew Marriott, CEO of SOCOTEC UK and Ireland, said: “The release of this whitepaper highlights several concerning shortcomings in the third-party certification market at present.

“There’s a clear requirement for radical change, and we look forward to seeing UKTC ensure have a real positive change on the sector.”

How transparent certification data affects practice

Fire engineering consultants and risk assessors could use the survey findings and the UKTC ensure model when reviewing the reliability of test evidence that underpins their designs and recommendations.

System installers and fire-protection contractors may treat the full publication of Field of Application and classification reports as a practical way to see the exact scope and limits of tested performance before selecting products.

Architects and building services engineers could draw on the digital vault and version-controlled documentation when assembling and maintaining the Golden Thread of fire safety information across a project lifecycle.

Procurement officers and facility managers may use UKAS-backed certification records, accessible via QR codes, to check that installed products still match their certified performance claims during maintenance or refurbishment work.

Standards and certification bodies can reference the whitepaper’s feedback and its alignment with BS 8644-1:2022 when reviewing how their own schemes handle transparency, data access and the publication of supporting reports.

Fireray Hub Reflective optical beam smoke detector now UL and EN certified

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Global launch of dual-certified smoke detector

According to FFE Ltd, the Fireray Hub Reflective optical beam smoke detector is now available worldwide following certification to UL 268 (7th Edition) and EN 54-12.

FFE stated that these approvals allow the detector to be specified in projects requiring compliance with either North American or European standards.

The company explained that the unit is intended for large interior spaces and can detect smoke at distances of up to 120 metres when used with its long-range kit.

FFE confirmed that the product supports installation in aviation hangars, industrial and warehouse environments, glazed atria, sports facilities, heritage sites and educational buildings.

Product features and operation

According to FFE, the Fireray Hub Reflective incorporates several functions intended to simplify installation and maintenance.

The company said the system includes Motorised Auto-Alignment™ to enable single-person setup.

It added that Light Cancellation Technology™ reduces the likelihood of nuisance alarms in bright or glass-heavy environments.

FFE stated that Building Movement Tracking™ is designed to maintain detector alignment over time.

The firm reported that the ground-level controller can support up to three detector heads, each with independent fire and fault signalling.

Certification details

FFE explained that the UL 268 (7th Edition) standard applies to smoke detectors used in North America and includes updated performance testing requirements.

The company added that EN 54-12 covers optical beam smoke detectors within the European fire detection and fire alarm systems standard.

It said that by meeting both sets of requirements, the product can be used in projects spanning multiple regions without the need for separate models.

FFE noted that this approach can help reduce procurement complexity in large-scale developments.

Statement from FFE

Tom McGinnes, Product Manager at FFE, said: “With UL and EN certifications in place, customers can deploy Hub Reflective on multi-region programmes with confidence.

“It’s a robust, installer friendly beam solution that keeps large-space projects on time and within budget.”

Intended applications

FFE stated that the detector is suitable for buildings where point-type detectors may be impractical due to height or size.

It said this includes aviation hangars where long detection ranges are required.

The company added that warehouses, glass atria in hotels or retail sites, and covered sports arenas are also potential installation sites.

It explained that heritage and education buildings may benefit from the reduced visual impact of the beam system compared to ceiling-mounted detectors.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The dual certification of the Fireray Hub Reflective means fire safety professionals can use a single detector model across projects in both North America and Europe.

This can help simplify equipment standardisation for multinational developments.

The long-range detection and alignment tracking functions may be particularly relevant in large or complex buildings where maintenance access is challenging.

By specifying equipment that meets multiple standards, professionals can reduce the need for separate procurement processes and associated training requirements.

Fireray Hub Reflective optical beam smoke detector now UL and EN certified: Summary

FFE Ltd has announced worldwide availability of the Fireray Hub Reflective optical beam smoke detector.

The detector is certified to UL 268 (7th Edition) and EN 54-12.

It is designed for large interior spaces up to 120 metres with a long-range kit.

Features include Motorised Auto-Alignment™, Light Cancellation Technology™ and Building Movement Tracking™.

The ground-level controller supports up to three detector heads with independent signalling.

FFE stated the product can be used in aviation hangars, warehouses, glazed atria, sports facilities, heritage sites and education buildings.

Tom McGinnes, Product Manager, said it is suitable for multi-region programmes.

Fire Rover’s first human-controlled remotely operated fire protection system earns FM Approval

by Featured NewsProducts

Fire Rover, a provider of remote fire detection and suppression technology, has announced their Continuous Flow Primary System has earned FM Approvals certification after rigorous testing to seven critical fire safety standards.

Established in 2015 with a mission to reduce the negative impact of industrial and outdoor fires, Fire Rover has expanded over the past decade to service more than 750 systems across the U.S., Canada, Australia, France and the UK.

Features of the Continuous Flow Primary System

The newly certified Continuous Flow Primary System represents a significant advancement in fire safety technology.

This monitor/nozzle extinguishing system is remotely monitored, activated and controlled by trained personnel via an offsite central station.

Equipped with advanced visual and infrared cameras, the system allows central station operators to verify fire threats, activate suppression and precisely position the discharge stream onto target fires or hotspots.

The system utilizes a continuous water supply through either municipal water service or a fire pump system and pre-action/deluge valve assembly.

Fire Rover’s technology

Fire Rover’s patented technology combines advanced thermography, flame detection with electro-optical sensors and sophisticated video analytics to create a comprehensive detection network that identifies threats up to five minutes faster than traditional systems.

The technology also delivers remarkable efficiency, using 88% less water than conventional sprinkler systems, according to a 2020 FM study.

All Fire Rover systems feature control panels manufactured in the company’s dedicated panel shop, ensuring rigorous industrial safety standards for mission-critical applications.

Systems are monitored 24/7/365 through FM Approved central stations, with comprehensive preventative maintenance included in service contracts.

The FM Approvals certification process was extensive, testing the Fire Rover system against seven standards: FM 1421, FM 5511, FM 5560, FM 3810, FM 3010, FM 3011 and FM 3260.

CEO, Fire Rover, Will Schmidt’s statement

Will Schmidt, CEO of Fire Rover said: “To advance Fire Rover’s mission of mitigating the negative impact of industrial fires, we determined external certification would enhance our product’s market acceptance.

“We strategically chose FM Approvals as our certification partner because its mark validates that Fire Rover systems meet the highest performance standards in real-world fire scenarios.

“FM is widely recognized as the industry’s most rigorous and respected certification in fire safety, underscoring Fire Rover’s commitment to exceptional fire risk management, stringent quality control, superior reliability and continued innovation.”

President, Fire Rover, Mike Bodnar’s statement

Mike Bodnar, President of Fire Rover, added: “The FM Approvals team promptly recognized the innovative nature of Fire Rover’s Continuous Flow Primary System.

“Its specialists collaborated with our team to develop comprehensive test criteria that integrated multiple FM Approvals standards and established testing protocols.

“This thorough approach ensured Fire Rover’s groundbreaking technology would undergo rigorous validation, ultimately demonstrating its effectiveness as a proven alternative to conventional fire suppression systems.”

FM Approval given to Fire Rover’s first human-controlled remotely operated fire protection system: Summary

Fire Rover’s Continuous Flow Primary System has earned FM Approvals certification after rigorous testing to seven critical fire safety standards.

Mike Bodnar, President of Fire Rover said the testing demonstrates the effectives of the Continuous Flow Primary System, proving it as an alternative to conventional fire suppression systems.

BAFE and NAPIT raise the standards on domestic fire safety

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

BAFE, the fire safety register, and NAPIT, the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers, have announced the first ever Third-Party Certification and BAFE Registration to the DS301 competency scheme, which has been achieved by CS Electrics based in County Durham.

The competency scheme covers design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance works performed on Grade D domestic fire detection and fire alarm systems. Both BAFE and NAPIT have said they believe that all domestic properties should have, as a minimum, a Grade D fire detection and fire alarm system which has been installed by a competent organisation.

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, BAFE Group Managing Director, commented: “It is imperative that both decision makers and the public understand that electricians cannot do everything regarding electrical systems by default.

“There are additional British Standards and guidance that outlines heightened competency requirements for particular electrical services, one of which is the safe practice of providing domestic fire alarm systems [i.e. BS 5839-6 Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises].

“All four constituent countries of the UK have comparable fire safety dwelling regulations and guidance available, and we strongly believe that all dwellings should have systems in place in accordance with the relevant recommendations of BS 5839-6. This is especially pertinent to the housing sector which should have far greater scrutiny on this matter in the interest of life safety.”

Frank Bertie, Chief Technical Officer for NAPIT, added: “Whilst working to BS 7671 [Wiring Regulations] is vital, elevated skills and experience is unequivocally required to perform works for domestic fire safety systems. The importance of correctly designed, installed, and commissioned domestic fire detection and fire alarm works can often be overlooked.

“NAPIT are committed to enhancing standards within the industry. As a UKAS accredited, Government authorised Certification Body, by providing a scheme which assesses the competence of installers and allows them to demonstrate they have been appropriately certificated to perform this scope of work, we anticipate this will assist in a safer domestic built environment and provide confidence to clients.

“This is of particular importance with regards to new builds where domestic fire alarm systems must be installed in line with the Building Regulations and relevant British Standards.”

Christopher McTearnen, Owner of CS Electrics, said “I am extremely proud to be the first organisation that has received this third-party certification to the BAFE DS301 scheme. This will go a long way in demonstrating we are competent to deliver these works, and hope this becomes an industry standard to remove any people who claim to be competent without appropriate evidence of this. It’s so important that fire safety work is performed by the right providers to keep people safe.”