Fire Aware calls for collaboration across fire safety supply chain

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Collaboration, charters and a wider duty of care

Fire Aware has said closer working across the fire safety supply chain can help deliver safer outcomes for people in buildings across multiple sectors.

The organisation said Collaboration on legislation, product supply and innovation can help address current pressures facing the sectors it serves.

Fire Aware’s work centres on the moral responsibility of those involved in the fire safety supply chain, including designers, developers, asset owners, managers and other stakeholders.

This, it said, applies beyond specialist fire safety roles and extends across the wider supply chain.

Sectors identified as vulnerable to fire risk include hospitality and healthcare, where building operators are responsible for protecting customers, elderly people and others who may be unable to protect themselves in a real fire.

Collaboration and cultural change

Fire Aware said it aims to influence behaviour in the built environment sector through a moral code of conduct set out in a series of charters.

The organisation described those charters as a way to shape how member companies uphold their duty of care.

Fire Aware CEO Gavin Skelly said: “Our members tell us that when they work closely together the solutions are easier to find and everyone benefits.

“We are all in this together.

“At Fire Aware, we have a community of companies large and small who often collaborate together to find the solution to a problem.”

Skelly added: “We all believe in fulfilling our duty of care and working closely with partners who are like-minded will help everyone to achieve that.

“This is a vocation for life, not a job.”

He added: “The Fire Aware community – and the wider fire safety industry – are all of the same mind.

“We cannot compromise when it comes to safeguarding the safety of people moving about in our buildings.

“That cuts cross all sectors and applies to a multitude of responsible people who may or may not be directly involved in fire safety but want to uphold their duty of care.

“It’s not just about the specialists.

“It’s about the entire supply chain.”

The statement also noted calls for cultural change through moral and ethical behaviours, alongside the role of the independent Building Safety Regulator in promoting competence and higher standards.

Collaboration over competition: Can Ranger Fire and Security fix sector fragmentation?

by Breaking NewsMergers & Acquisitions

How Ranger Fire and Security is tackling fragmentation to boost growth in the fire and security sector

In early 2024, several independent fire and security businesses decided to try something different.

They became the first to join Ranger Fire and Security, a newly launched Group established to address some of the sector’s biggest challenges – from fragmentation in the industry to the difficulties many face in scaling their often highly specialised businesses.

Ranger had a clear goal, but it was far from straightforward: it aimed to bring together like-minded companies with a shared commitment to quality customer service, and enable them to collaborate, share resources and cross-sell, by giving them the tools and systems to make it possible.

Turning competition into collaboration

In the traditionally fragmented fire and security industry, companies often operate in isolation, each focused on a particular skill or region. Ranger’s approach looked to change that – creating a connected network of UK-wide businesses where each brings its expertise to the table, helping others deliver work they couldn’t before.

As Niall Hacket, Founder and Managing Director of IPH Fire Solutions put it: “We’re all bringing our own kind of superpowers to the group. We’ve all got our own niche. What appealed to me about joining Ranger was that I could bring my skillset and my company to the Group and help the Group – and vice versa.”

This potential for greater collaboration has paid off. Martin Donald, Founder and Managing Director of Ignis Fire & Security, described how trusted partnerships have transformed his business. “Before, we used to work with other companies and they were always letting us down – shoddy work, losing money on jobs. Now, we send all our work to our partners in Ranger, and they deliver a good service every time. We don’t have that issue anymore.”

A standout example of this collaboration is between Fire Door Specialists Ltd (FDSL) and Syncro, who together have opened up new opportunities in the student accommodation sector. As Ian Maciejewski, Founder and Managing Director of FDSL, explained: “The cross-sell has had a big impact on what we’re doing. Syncro brought us into some tough sectors to break into, and it’s opened up a huge opportunity for us.” Gerry Bates, Managing Director at Syncro Group Limited agrees. “It’s not subcontracting, it’s genuine collaboration. We’re spotting opportunities for each other and building customer relationships that benefit everyone at Ranger.”

More reach, better service

For many, Ranger has enabled instant access to a national network – a game-changer for regional firms suddenly able to deliver consistent quality across the UK and Ireland. Gerry explained how that’s transformed operations for his business. “Before Ranger, we were a small and regional business, but when work came up further away, we had to send engineers hundreds of miles – sometimes at a loss. Now, with the reach of Ranger, we don’t have to. Profits are up, customer service is better, and everything feels joined up.”

This collaborative and coordinated approach isn’t just improving logistics, it’s also building confidence and loyalty among clients. As Gerry adds: “Even when it’s not our job, our clients know that if something goes wrong, we’ll go that extra mile to get it sorted one way or another.”

For Ian, being part of Ranger has also helped FDSL strengthen its internal operations. “We’d grown to a good size, but when you’re leading a growing business, you’re normally having to juggle the day job, finances, HR and more. We’d reached the point where we needed more structure and experience. Ranger brought that – proper HR, better systems and people to help us get to the next level.”

Technology driving trust

Central to this transformation has been the implementation of Simpro, the cloud-based field service management platform that now powers Ranger’s operations. Tailored specifically to Ranger’s multi-company structure, it connects teams, streamlines delivery and unlocks new cross-selling potential across the Group. “Before, we were all on different systems,” Martin explains. “It was a nightmare getting job sheets and information. Now it’s a click of a button.”

For Iain Gowans (known as IG), Ranger’s Transformation Director, the technology has done more than boost efficiency – it has built trust. “We started out trusting other people and hoping for the best. Over time, we’ve built real trust and relationships across the Group. Now, we talk even when we don’t have to. That means when we do need each other, the collaboration is natural.”

Growing at pace

Since its launch, the Group has achieved 25% organic growth, driven by smarter collaboration, job sharing and efficiency gains – far exceeding the market’s average growth rate of just 3–4%. “We asked our businesses to grow fast and modernise at the same time,” said IG. “Integrating systems, harmonising teams and evolving how we work. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the results speak for themselves.”

Even so, the pace of change has been considerable. “The only challenge,” Gerry admitted: “is that it’s all gone so fast. In 18 months, we’ve grown by 50%. It’s a good problem to have.” And for him, the benefits go beyond the numbers, with the security offered by being part of something bigger. “When you’re on your own, your problems are yours to deal with. Now, if the worst happens, we know Ranger is there to support us.”

Looking to the future

Since its launch, Ranger has helped transform a collection of independent firms into a connected network that shares not just work and systems, but values, trust and a mission, all while preserving the brand identities that owners have worked hard to build. “There are no losers,” says Niall. “We’ve kept our own companies and teams, but we’re part of a bigger group that helps us all grow. The customers win too – they get a stronger, more capable business delivering for them.”

Martin sums up why others should consider joining Ranger. “We’re keeping the money in the group. We’re not pushing it out to others. What makes us better makes the competition less good.”

Nearly two years on from its launch, and just over a year since it rolled out its system to seamlessly connect all businesses, Ranger’s approach is reshaping the UK’s fire and security sector for the better. And, as those in the Group all agree, this is just the beginning of the journey.

Is your business ready to join Ranger? Get in touch: acquisitions@rangerfs.com

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

A collective approach to resilience, with Ranger Fire & Security  

by Breaking NewsPassive

Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire & Security, discusses how industry collaboration can drive growth, improve service delivery and help businesses better protect against risk 

The recent storms in the UK are a timely reminder of the destructive power of nature, having caused fires, floods, and power outages for thousands of people around the country.  

Across the pond, the fires in LA tell a similar story; even in a city of its size and with some of the world’s wealthiest communities, the spread can be almost impossible to quell. What sparked those fires continues to be debated, from a felled powerline to the embers of smaller fires being carried miles by wind.  

We may never know for sure, and while we can never fully guard against all eventualities, taking the right steps to prepare for as many scenarios as possible is critical. Recent figures from the Home Office, reported on by IFSJ, show that fire and rescue incidents continued to increase in the UK. In the year ending September 2024, nearly 600,000 incidents were attended by fire and rescue services – an 18% increase over the last 10 years. 

The figures highlight the ongoing challenges and risks posed to individuals, communities, and businesses, and why prevention is the best medicine.

However, the 25% increase in false alarms in the last 10 years is worth noting, as it underscores how poor or faulty equipment can also be disruptive to business operations. 

Mark Bridges

The UK has a robust fire and security (F&S) sector, made up of highly-skilled businesses that provide their customers with the services they need to guard against fire and other major risks. Yet, the highly regulated and ever-changing nature of the sector has made it hard for many of these businesses to grow. Instead, many focus on providing high-quality services in a small number of postcode areas. 

The knock-on effect is that companies looking to procure F&S services often have to contract with multiple businesses, meaning many operating in the sector are struggling or unwilling to take the step to further expansion, while companies contracting with them often have to manage multiple agreements, which is complex and inefficient. 

If we were able to overcome these challenges, more F&S businesses would be able to increase their services, and better meet the needs of the companies they are working for. In this sense, everyone benefits from better, more extensive services that guard against loss from fire, security breaches, and other risks. 

This is why we wanted to create a new way to help F&S businesses grow, share knowledge and business opportunities, and better service the F&S needs of their customers. 

Mark Bridges

A year ago this month, along with a small group of close colleagues and backed by Hyperion Equity Partners, we launched Ranger Fire and Security. Rather than create a new business from scratch, we decided to bring together some of the UK’s most high-performing F&S companies to share expertise and cross-selling opportunities. 

In just one year, we’ve welcomed on board a range of high-performing businesses based across the UK and Ireland, taking the Group from literally £0 in earnings to one of the top ten largest F&S businesses by revenues in December, with double digit percentage organic growth and cross-selling opportunities between our Ranger Group businesses. 

This keen focus on collaboration and resource sharing is helping tackle these barriers to growth and service expansion, while creating a platform that is national in scope and moving into new markets. As I look back on the year, I couldn’t have imagined that we’d grow from just a handful of people to a headcount of nearing  200 F&S professionals. 

By ensuring businesses within the group keep operating under the same management and company name as ‘local heroes’, we’re capitalising on existing reputations for excellence, while pooling resources, intelligence, and opportunities to the benefit of everyone. 

Mark Bridges

Collaboration like this will be crucial to ensuring the sector continues to grow and meet demand, especially as the risk of fire and rescue incidents persist. The floods, fires, and power cuts due to recent storms are a powerful reminder of why we need to take every precaution we can to avoid catastrophe.

The F&S sector has a more important role to play than ever before in helping other businesses adequately guard against risk, whether natural or manmade. 

There are many challenges that lie ahead, but also just as many opportunities. When we come together to collaborate and share knowledge, resources, and expertise, not only can we better service the businesses that rely on us, but we can also overcome the challenges that have stifled growth for so many for too long. 

This article was originally published in the April 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Arlo announce partnership with Origin AI

by Featured NewsPeople

Arlo Technologies a smart home security brand, has announced a partnership agreement with Origin AI. Sharing a common mission to protect customers through advanced AI-powered solutions, both Arlo and Origin AI has developed technologies that have been recognised by industry experts.

Under the agreement, Arlo will have exclusive worldwide rights to market and sell Origin AI’s AI products, TruShield™ and Allos, which deliver Verified Human Presence detection through radio frequency (RF) signals emitted by existing WiFi devices in homes or businesses.

This capability enables internet service and other solution providers a simple yet powerful path to bring home security to their customers while increasing accuracy and reducing false alarms.

Additionally, Arlo plans to integrate Origin AI Sensing technologies into future offerings, complementing Arlo’s suite of advanced security solutions powered by Arlo Intelligence — from AI-assisted motion detection to indoor/outdoor video monitoring and professional monitoring with video verification.

CEO of Arlo Technologies, Matthew McRae’s statement

Matthew McRae, CEO of Arlo Technologies said: “Arlo has been continuously investing for over 10 years in AI- and CV-powered security technologies that enable customers to feel safer, react faster and enjoy greater peace of mind with 24/7 protection from Arlo Secure,

“With today’s announcement, we are excited to add Origin’s AI Sensing capabilities to create a new integrated AI-powered security offering that will be unmatched in its intelligence and performance.”

CEO of Origin AI, Spencer Maid’s statement

Spencer Maid, CEO of Origin AI spoke about the announcement: “Origin AI is excited to collaborate with Arlo in this strategic partnership,

“By combining Arlo’s leadership in smart home security with Origin’s cutting-edge AI Sensing technologies, we are delivering unparalleled solutions to redefine how people protect their homes and businesses. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to innovation and customer security.”

Arlo and Origin AI announce new partnership: Summary

Arlo has announced a new partnership with Origin AI, which means that Arlo has exclusive rights to market and sell Origin AI’s products. The CEO of Origin AI stated how this partnership underscores both companies commitment to innovation and customer security.

AEI Cables says early partnering is key to solving legislation challenges

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Early collaboration between project partners is an important first step to achieving smooth project completion under new legislation, says cable supplier AEI Cables.

The new Building Safety Act – introduced in October 2023 – makes new stringent requirements for higher-risk buildings which are those deemed to be of at least 18 metres in height or at least seven storeys containing at least two residential units.

The systems in these buildings powered by electrical cables – including smoke and heat extraction systems – assist fire services in firefighting and a safe evacuation in the case of life safety.

AEI Cables General Manager’s statement

Stuart Dover, General Manager of AEI Cables, said: “We recognise the issues presented by the new legislation for all those working in the built environment but by working closely together early in the process we believe we can overcome a lot of the challenges.

“We are finding that collaboration amongst our partners really works and leads to a much more streamlined, efficient process.”

The Building Safety Regulator’s role

The Building Safety Regulator will oversee the safety and performance of all buildings, as well as having a special focus on high-rise buildings. It will promote competence and organisational capability within the sector including for building control professionals and tradespeople.

Building owners should now have their building safety regime in place and any occupied higher-risk buildings should be registered with the Building Safety Regulator.

AEI Cables discuss importance of early collaboration due to new legislation: Summary

Thanks to the Building Safety Act and their tight new rules regarding higher-risk buildings, AEI have mapped out a plan they believe will combat any legislative issues.

Stuart Dover of AEI stated that by promoting collaboration amongst partnerships, a smoother process is ensured.

Euralarm welcomes new member Vanderbilt

by Passive

Following a decision of its Board, Euralarm has welcomed its newest member Vanderbilt. The company will join the Security Section of Euralarm. The Security Section represents the intrusion, access and video sector and is key stakeholder in organisations such as CertAlarm, CEN-CENELEC, IEC and the European Commission. Together with a diverse number of stakeholders in Europe, the section collaborates on finding solutions for today’s as well as tomorrow’s challenges for security in a digitised world.

The Security Section meetings gathers experts presenting on actual topics such as the standardisation landscape on video surveillance. The section liaises towards key standardisation groups in the security field and closely follows technological developments to guide regulation and standardisation. Concerning standards, the section continues informing members of changes and advocacy activities at both national and EU level.

Being a member of Euralarm Vanderbilt will benefit from Euralarm’s representation towards European institutions and standardisation organisations. This includes the monitoring of legislative and standardisation issues relevant to the industry. Vanderbilt will have access to the extended network of national associations and major companies in the electronic fire safety and security sectors, which form Euralarm’s members. The new membership will create opportunities for both sides, as it also strengthens the association.

Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt is a global provider of high-performance security systems across access control and intrusion detection. Vanderbilt is recognised for its future-proof, innovative, and easy-to-use portfolio that contains award-winning products such as access control solutions ACT365 and ACT Enterprise and intrusion solutions SPC and SPC Connect. An advocate of open platforms and integrations, Vanderbilt understands the issues customers face and provides multiple solutions that are designed to meet these needs.

European expertise on markets and opportunities

Companies joining Euralarm get a unique insight into what is happening in European markets and the opportunities that they might offer. They not only tap into the political expertise and understanding of the EU policy but can also make personal connections with technical and political experts and potential business partners.

Being a member of Euralarm enables companies and associations to gain expertise on standardisation. Members have their voice heard in Brussels and can support and direct standardisation and legislative processes.

euralarm.org/

www.vanderbiltindustries.com

Venari Group partners with Avon Protection for thermal imaging camera distribution

by ProductsThermal Imaging

Avon Protection, has announced Venari Group as its new distributor of thermal imaging cameras (TICs) for the UK fire market.

The agreement will see Venari commence distributorship of Avon’s ‘argus’ range of TICs with immediate effect. The British-manufactured argus technology has been the market leader within the UK fire and rescue industry for three decades, having continually invested in R&D and product innovation. Its evolved ‘Mi-TIC’ unit is the world’s smallest NFPA 1801-certified thermal imager for firefighting applications.

After launching into the fire market in early 2020 we have made significant strides forward, having acquired the UK’s biggest and most established ambulance manufacturer, O&H Vehicle Technology. We have also been announced as the UK manufacturer of Ziegler Group’s technologically advanced range of firefighting vehicles – providing world-class fire truck technology whilst wholly manufacturing in Britain.

Now, with the latest evolution in the Mi-TIC’s legacy, Venari will be tasked with spearheading customer care, sales and marketing for the UK fire and ambulance services, from its state-of-the-art, 60,000 sq. ft. emergency vehicle manufacturing facility.

Avon Protection European Sales Director, Mark Ridsdale commented: “I’ve worked with Oliver and many of the Venari team in the past and very much look forward to working with them again. Their passion for the Mi-TIC thermal imager completely mirrors that of our own which is an extremely exciting prospect for the UK fire and rescue services.

“With our latest development of Mi-TIC, incorporating the IGNIS engine, it means our thermal imaging camera can provide absolute clarity to firefighters in the most demanding situations. For our TIC be supplied and backed up by Venari’s incredibly efficient team will provide an excellent platform for our market share to solidify its position as the UK market leader.”

Venari Group CEO, Oliver North, added: “Avon Protection’s world-class range of TICs has long been at the forefront of UK firefighting strategy. Alignment of Avon and Venari completely champions the importance and significance of strengthening UK manufactured products.

“Avon Protection is genuinely one of the most exciting companies I’ve had the privilege of working with in my career to-date, and continuation of our previously very dynamic partnership is one which I’m excited to re-ignite.

“I’ve previously had seven years of experience with the Mi-TIC, and I’m thrilled to represent it to its fullest potential in both the UK fire and rescue market as well as the ambulance market with hazardous area response teams (HART) teams. Many of the wider team at Venari are also hugely experienced with the incredible Mi-TIC and wholeheartedly share my passion for the range.”

venari-group.com

Kent FRS and Bristol Uniforms partner up to deliver PPE Framework benefits

by Breaking NewsProjects

Thirty-three Fire and Rescue Services (FRS), comprising over 33,500 firefighters, are now benefiting from the Local Authority Collaborative PPE Framework. Launched three years ago in June 2017, the Framework gives UK FRSs access to high quality PPE ensembles and volume discounts through a streamlined procurement process. The Framework was set up in response to calls from government and the industry for FRSs to work together to share best practice and deliver efficiencies.

It is run by Kent FRS, with PPE supplied by Bristol Uniforms, who was selected as the preferred supplier following a rigorous two-year tender process. Signing up via a purchase only or fully managed service contract, FRSs continue to reap the benefits of the Framework, which guarantees quality PPE that has been independently evaluated and tested, and can save considerable time and costs.

Utilising the latest technology

So far this year through the Framework, Bristol has delivered new PPE to seven FRSs, including Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service who opted for a Fully Managed Services Contract. Despite the Coronavirus pandemic, they were measured and received their kit on 1 June.

The safety of our firefighters is of the utmost importance to us here in Oxfordshire”

Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall said: “Bristol Uniforms uses the latest technology in firefighter clothing, and they design PPE to provide fire crews with the very best protection. The safety of our firefighters is of the utmost importance to us here in Oxfordshire. The kit is lighter in weight, breathable and offers more support for the wearer and we are proud to know we are now one of many fire and rescue services in the country to utilise this latest technology in protective clothing for our staff. Thank you to Bristol Uniforms for providing us with a first-class service.”

Fire And Rescue Service

Chris Colgan, Director of Operations at Kent Fire and Rescue Service, and Chair of the NFCC PPE/Clothing Committee, said: “The National Collaborative PPE Framework is the first of its kind for the fire and rescue service, enabling borderless provision of standardised critical kit.”

“So far, working with the team at Bristol Uniforms, we have made significant progress in demonstrating that the sector can work as one customer. However, more can be done. The pandemic has shown us that it is not an impossible target to expect all FRS to sign up to national arrangements delivered through the National Fire Commercial Transformation Programme and we are committed to continuing to build on the success of this arrangement.”

Working partnership

The selected styles combine innovative and ergonomic designs with the use of high-performance fabrics and fibres. 

“Bristol Uniforms has done a sterling job ensuring service continuity for all FRS throughout the disruptions caused by COVID-19, working closely with the contract management team at Kent FRS on behalf of the Sector. This has been one of the greatest tests of strategic relationship and service management and I am incredibly pleased that the result has been a real proof of concept.”

Roger Startin, Joint Managing Director at Bristol Uniforms said: “The demand for our cutting-edge PPE through the Collaborative Framework has been unprecedented as FRSs learn about the benefits of joint working. The Framework has significantly improved and simplified the procurement process and despite very challenging circumstances, we continue to size firefighters for their new kit, manufacture and deliver it on time and to budget.”

High-Performance Fabrics

PPE supplied by Bristol Uniforms within the Framework includes Full Structural Ensemble, a Layered Jacket, Rescue Jacket and USAR Ensemble. The selected styles combine innovative and ergonomic designs with the use of high-performance fabrics and fibres, offering maximum comfort, manoeuvrability and protection.