FirstNet Users Summit 2025 in Indianapolis to examine public safety network challenges

by CommunicationsEventsFeatured News

US public safety organisations invited to attend FirstNet Users Summit

The Public Safety Broadband Technology Association (PSBTA) has announced the 2025 Vision FirstNet Users Summit will take place in Indianapolis from 8 to 11 September.

The event will bring together emergency services, government agencies, and technology partners to discuss developments on the FirstNet network in the United States.

According to PSBTA, the event is open to FirstNet primary and extended primary users including police, fire services, hospitals, and emergency management teams.

The summit will be held at The Westin Indianapolis Downtown Hotel & Conference Center.

Workshops, product demonstrations, and keynote sessions will explore how the FirstNet broadband platform is being used in operational environments across the country.

Sessions to cover wellness, connectivity and AI response

The conference programme includes sessions dedicated to responder wellness, real-time AI integration, and interoperable communications.

Dr John Delony from Ramsey Solutions will present on mental and emotional health in emergency services on 8 September.

Sheriff Mark Lamb of Pinal County, Arizona, will deliver a keynote speech on 10 September highlighting how FirstNet supports field operations through network reliability.

Attendees will hear case studies from local and federal agencies on how FirstNet-enabled systems are being applied in rural and urban settings.

Topics include AI-assisted emergency response, inter-agency collaboration, and the use of satellite technology to improve connectivity in remote areas.

FirstNet representatives to provide updates on network coverage and reinvestment

Representatives from FirstNet and AT&T will deliver an update on the state of the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN).

Scott Agnew, President at FirstNet, Built with AT&T, is scheduled to discuss infrastructure improvements, reinvestment status, and planned enhancements to coverage.

Jeffrey Carl, Director of Application Ecosystem at FirstNet, will present on coverage tiers, deployable assets, and always-on priority access for emergency users.

Organisers said the sessions will provide operational clarity for those managing public safety communications during large-scale incidents or in high-risk locations.

Delegates will be able to explore FirstNet’s hardware and software capabilities through hands-on exhibitions and breakout sessions.

Breakout tracks and grant support to address agency needs

The summit will include four modular session tracks aimed at different stakeholder groups.

Tracks are tailored for administrative leadership, unified emergency support functions, technical support teams, and operational end users.

A dedicated grants session is included to help agencies understand federal, state, and local funding opportunities.

Kamala Kuhn, Director of Grants Assistance with PS Grants, will outline approaches to public safety grant applications and share case studies from the St. Louis region.

One-on-one support will be offered to help attendees address specific funding and procurement questions.

Organisers said the programme was designed to reflect the communication priorities of diverse agencies.

Technology providers to demonstrate FirstNet-compatible solutions

A series of Tech Talks will present FirstNet-compatible innovations from private sector partners.

Samsung will discuss how Galaxy AI supports frontline response with field translation and secure deployment.

NextNav will demonstrate an active DAS system with AI gunshot detection for schools.

Ericsson, Siyata, and Emergent are among the technology providers presenting on the role of 5G and connected infrastructure in emergency communications.

Each technology session will include examples of deployments in public safety environments.

The exhibit hall will feature interactive demonstrations and daily networking sessions.

FirstNet Users Summit 2025 in Indianapolis to examine public safety network challenges: Summary

The 2025 Vision FirstNet Users Summit will be held from 8 to 11 September in Indianapolis.

The announcement was made by the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association.

The event is aimed at FirstNet primary and extended primary users across emergency services and government.

Sessions will cover responder wellness, broadband coverage, grant funding, and AI applications in public safety.

Speakers include Sheriff Mark Lamb, Scott Agnew, Dr John Delony, and Jeffrey Carl.

Key topics include rural coverage, real-time situational awareness, and inter-agency coordination.

Tracks are targeted at leadership, technical teams, and operational users.

The programme includes product demonstrations and networking sessions.

Technology partners presenting include Samsung, Siyata, NextNav, and Ericsson.

The summit will be hosted at The Westin Indianapolis Downtown Hotel & Conference Center.

UK emergency alert test scheduled for September 2025

by CommunicationsFeatured News

Nationwide test scheduled for mobile emergency alert system

The Guardian has reported that the UK government will carry out a second national test of its emergency alert system on 7 September 2025.

The system is designed to notify the public of threats to life, including severe weather events, through mobile phone alerts.

The alerts will bypass silent mode and sound a siren for approximately 10 seconds, displaying a message to indicate that it is a test.

The alert will not be received if a mobile device is turned off or connected to a 2G or 3G network.

There are around 87 million mobile phones in the UK, according to The Guardian.

Alerts used in previous emergencies across the UK

The emergency alert system was first tested across the UK in April 2023.

According to The Guardian, some users reported not receiving the alert, a problem later attributed to certain mobile networks.

Since then, the system has been used regionally on five occasions.

In January 2025, approximately 4.5 million people in Scotland and Northern Ireland received alerts during Storm Éowyn, when the Met Office issued a severe weather warning.

Other local uses include alerts for flash flooding in Cumbria and Leicestershire, and an unexploded Second World War bomb in Plymouth.

Local officials support the system’s emergency response role

Tracey Lee, chief executive of Plymouth city council, commented on the system’s role during a real-life incident.

Lee said: “The alert proved to be an invaluable tool during the Keyham bomb operation.”

“This was the first time the system had been used in a real emergency, and it played a vital role in helping us safely evacuate over 10,000 people and coordinate a complex, multi-agency response.”

Government aims to improve coverage and public awareness

The alert system is operated by the UK government and is intended to improve public safety through rapid communication during emergencies.

Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “Emergency alerts have the potential to save lives, allowing us to share essential information rapidly in emergency situations including extreme storms.”

“Just like the fire alarm in your house, it’s important we test the system so that we know it will work if we need it.”

The government will provide advance notice of the 7 September test.

This is intended to help vulnerable people, including those affected by domestic abuse who may have concealed phones, to take precautions.

Broader resilience plans and international context

The Guardian reported that McFadden will also present a new resilience action plan alongside the emergency alert system test announcement.

The plan will offer guidance on how members of the public can prepare for different types of emergencies.

Ministers are also expected to release an update on the implementation of the 2023 biological security strategy.

This strategy is intended to support national preparedness for future pandemics.

Other countries such as Japan and the United States conduct regular tests of similar emergency alert systems.

UK emergency alert test scheduled for September 2025: Summary

The UK government will conduct a second nationwide test of its emergency alert system on 7 September 2025.

The alert will sound on mobile phones regardless of whether the phone is set to silent.

Phones switched off or using 2G or 3G networks will not receive the alert.

The system was first tested nationwide in April 2023.

Previous regional uses include severe weather, flash floods and an unexploded bomb.

The government will give prior notice to support vulnerable groups.

Pat McFadden said the test is essential to ensure the system functions in an emergency.

Tracey Lee said the system helped evacuate 10,000 people in Plymouth.

McFadden will also announce a resilience action plan for public preparedness.

An update on the 2023 biological security strategy will also be published.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue launches new fire control room

by CommunicationsFeatured News

New fire control room begins operations in Suffolk

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has launched a new fire control room in Ipswich, aimed at strengthening emergency call handling and response across the county.

According to Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, the facility was completed within 18 months and replaces a legacy system that had been deemed unreliable.

The control room includes cloud-based technologies designed to improve call management, data handling and regional collaboration.

It was developed in partnership with Motorola Solutions and will serve as part of a wider control hub with fire services in Hertfordshire and Norfolk.

Suffolk County Council said the project involved creating a new contact centre, hiring a new team and implementing locally configured systems tailored to Suffolk’s needs.

Regional collaboration and resilience features introduced

The control room forms part of a tri-service network linking Suffolk, Hertfordshire and Norfolk fire services.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service stated that this network will support mutual assistance across the three counties, particularly during peak demand such as periods of high call volumes or major incidents.

The service added that the new system is designed to enable improved management of large-scale emergencies, including floods and wildfires.

It also includes the ability for control staff to securely access systems remotely, supporting mobile command centres and flexible staffing arrangements.

According to the fire service, recorded data and incident logs will now be stored and organised more efficiently, improving the accuracy and traceability of emergency response data.

Council outlines reasons for investment

Suffolk County Council confirmed the decision to build a new fire control room was made in 2023 due to reliability concerns with the previous setup.

The council explained that the earlier system no longer provided sufficient resilience and could not guarantee continued effective service delivery.

The investment formed part of a wider strategy to bring fire control capabilities back into Suffolk and ensure future readiness.

Councillor Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Protection at Suffolk County Council, said:

“This is an incredible achievement – it demonstrates our commitment to innovation and protecting Suffolk’s residents with the very best emergency response services.

“Delivering this in just 18 months is a testament to what’s possible when teams collaborate with a clear vision and shared purpose.”

Technology provided by Motorola Solutions

Motorola Solutions was selected to deliver the core dispatch and communications systems for the new control room.

The company’s Guardian Suite software underpins the cloud-enabled system, which supports call handling, dispatch, and integrated communications.

Fergus Mayne, UK and Ireland Country Manager at Motorola Solutions, said:

“Demand on the fire and rescue service has evolved over the years.

“Our cloud-hosted Guardian Suite of computer-aided dispatch and integrated communication control system software benefits the three fire and rescue services by bringing all communications together into a robust and efficient environment, supporting faster, more coordinated emergency responses.”

Jon Lacey, Chief Fire Officer of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“This project is about making sure every call for help is answered with speed, precision, and care. Bringing services back into the county was a decisive move to put Suffolk’s residents and public value at the heart of emergency response.

“The new control room features advanced dispatch technology, upgraded communications systems, and enhanced data sharing capabilities – ensuring faster, smarter coordination during emergencies.

“I’m immensely proud of everyone who played a part in delivering this project successfully.”

Fire Minister welcomes service upgrade

Alex Norris, Minister for Fire, said:

“This new control room marks a major step forward for fire and rescue in Suffolk, improving the effectiveness and co-ordination of emergency responses across the county.

“I want to thank everyone involved for their hard work and dedication in delivering this project. It is a clear example of how investment and innovation in our fire services can lead to meaningful improvements in public safety.”

The minister joined council and service representatives for an official ceremony in Ipswich to mark the launch of the control room.

A plaque was unveiled as part of the event, which included attendance from emergency services partners and local officials.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue launches new fire control room: Summary

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has opened a new fire control room in Ipswich.

The launch was reported by Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service.

The project was completed in 18 months.

The facility includes cloud-enabled technology provided by Motorola Solutions.

The control room replaces a previous system deemed no longer reliable.

It enables remote access, improved data handling, and regional collaboration.

The system is part of a tri-service hub with Hertfordshire and Norfolk.

Councillor Steve Wiles said the delivery showed effective team collaboration.

Chief Fire Officer Jon Lacey said the system supports faster, smarter emergency response.

Fergus Mayne said the Guardian Suite enables integrated communication and dispatch.

Fire Minister Alex Norris said the new control room improves emergency response in Suffolk.

The launch event took place in Ipswich with partners and local officials.

Saudi Arabia boosts satellite network through ST Engineering iDirect and stc partnership

by CommunicationsFeatured News

Saudi Arabia’s satellite services upgraded with ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering has reported that its satellite communications division, ST Engineering iDirect, has signed a new partnership with solutions by stc to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure.

The collaboration is aimed at improving connectivity across sectors in Saudi Arabia, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

The new agreement includes expanding the existing ST Engineering iDirect ground network to offer both fixed and mobile satellite services.

The partnership will make use of local satellite resources to deliver flexible, scalable, and secure communications to government, enterprise, and telecom customers.

ST Engineering iDirect’s software-upgradable network components will allow the infrastructure to adapt as the demand for data services in Saudi Arabia continues to grow.

Partnership supports Vision 2030 growth goals

ST Engineering said the collaboration is in line with Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation plans under Vision 2030.

The Kingdom’s digital market is projected to increase from US$55.15 billion in 2025 to US$90.25 billion by 2030.

The network expansion is expected to support national growth by providing broader access to high-bandwidth and cost-effective connectivity.

Solutions by stc will play a key role in this expansion by integrating advanced satellite solutions into its service portfolio.

ST Engineering iDirect’s products are intended to enable reliable communications across remote areas and critical sectors.

The company noted that its technology will ensure long-term network resilience and adaptability.

Technology upgrade includes fixed and mobile satellite support

The agreement includes the deployment of ST Engineering iDirect’s latest satellite communications products across Saudi Arabia.

The products will be used in both stationary and mobile applications, supporting a wide range of operational needs.

ST Engineering said its solutions were selected for their ability to offer high availability, scalability, and integration with existing terrestrial systems.

The upgrade will support enterprise and government operations, as well as telecom networks extending to underserved regions.

Solutions by stc will manage the deployment and service delivery within the Kingdom.

Statement from ST Engineering iDirect

Don Claussen, CEO at ST Engineering iDirect, said: “This collaboration with solutions by stc is a testament to our shared vision of delivering advanced connectivity solutions that empower digital transformation across the Kingdom.”

He added:
“This collaboration with solutions by stc is a testament to our shared vision of delivering advanced connectivity solutions that empower digital transformation across the Kingdom.”
“We are honored to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s efforts in building a robust, future-ready connectivity framework.”

Claussen’s comments were included in the company’s official announcement of the partnership.

Service to reach government, enterprise and telecom users

ST Engineering iDirect confirmed that the upgraded services will be offered to a wide range of customers in Saudi Arabia.

Target users include government bodies, large enterprises, and mobile network operators.

The solutions aim to extend communication services into remote or underserved locations.

Solutions by stc will use the expanded infrastructure to meet sector-specific requirements.

The company said the service will be tailored for diverse applications including emergency communications, defence operations, and business continuity.

Saudi Arabia boosts satellite network through ST Engineering iDirect and stc partnership: Summary

ST Engineering reported a new partnership between its iDirect satellite division and solutions by stc.

The partnership focuses on expanding Saudi Arabia’s satellite communication infrastructure.

The deal supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 digital transformation targets.

Saudi Arabia’s digital sector is projected to grow to US$90.25 billion by 2030.

The agreement includes fixed and mobile satellite service upgrades.

ST Engineering iDirect’s software-upgradable products will be deployed.

The services will support government, enterprise, and telecom customers.

Solutions by stc will manage network deployment and service operations.

Don Claussen of ST Engineering iDirect said the deal supports the Kingdom’s future-ready connectivity goals.

All information was sourced from an official release by ST Engineering.

Life safety messaging platform launched by OneTel and TouchTone

by CommunicationsFeatured News

Real-time SMS solution launched for life safety and alarm sectors in US

TouchTone, in partnership with OneTel Security, has launched a new mobile messaging platform in the United States designed for alarm, life safety, and security industries.

The new solution supports both traditional SMS and Rich Communication Services (RCS) where available, enabling secure, real-time communication for high-priority notifications and emergency messaging.

According to the announcement, the platform allows application-to-person (A2P) messaging to integrate directly with existing dispatch and monitoring systems.

Messaging service integrates branding and media features

The system includes RCS capabilities for users where supported.

According to TouchTone, this allows organisations to send branded messages that include verified sender information, images, audio, video, and response options.

The company added that delivery status, read receipts, and click-through tracking are also available.

These tools are intended to help alarm and emergency response companies communicate more effectively with customers and personnel.

Technical focus on routing speed and reliability

TouchTone stated that SMS routes are designed for mission-critical delivery.

Messages are sent through zero-hop routing and direct connections to over 800 telecom providers globally.

According to the company, this approach is intended to improve delivery speed and minimise delays or message failures during emergency scenarios.

OneTel explained that its collaboration with TouchTone focuses on industries where communication speed and system reliability are essential.

Company leaders emphasise support for critical communications

Pino Bio, President of TouchTone Communications, said: “Our partners, such as OneTel, need communication tools they can depend on.

“This SMS solution was built with their needs in mind – fast, secure, and always on.

“Combined with our nationwide reroute voice solutions, Control Center call control software and Branded Calling ID (BCID), TouchTone is delivering even greater control and flexibility to manage communications and boost customer engagement.”

Sascha Kylau, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at OneTel Security, added: “Both OneTel and TouchTone have a shared mission to support organizations where every second counts.

“By integrating real-time SMS and RCS messaging into our communications suite, we’re equipping alarm, life safety, and security providers with the tools they need to ensure urgent messages are seen, understood, and acted upon without delay.”

Life safety messaging platform launched by OneTel and TouchTone: Summary

OneTel Security has launched a mobile messaging service for alarm, life safety, and security sectors in the US.

The announcement was made in partnership with TouchTone Communications.

The system includes SMS and Rich Communication Services (RCS) features where available.

The platform is intended to support real-time, secure application-to-person (A2P) messaging.

It integrates with dispatch and monitoring systems used in mission-critical environments.

RCS capabilities include branded content, verified sender details, multimedia, and user engagement tracking.

TouchTone stated the service uses zero-hop routing and direct telecom connections for speed and reliability.

More than 800 providers are connected through the system.

Pino Bio of TouchTone said the platform was designed to support dependable and fast communication.

Sascha Kylau of OneTel said the service helps ensure urgent alerts are received and acted on.

Use cases include emergency alerts, alarm notifications, recall messaging, and staff communications.

Emergency services response supported by Vismo’s real-time mass notification app

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsSafety

Real-time staff tracking for emergency response

Vismo has updated its mobile application to give emergency services and employers the ability to issue mass notifications directly from a smartphone, according to the company.

The update allows security teams to track employee locations in real time using the Vismo Monitor App, without needing access to a desktop device.

Vismo said this change enables faster responses to emerging threats and offers flexibility during high-risk events by allowing notifications to be issued from any mobile device.

Mobile mass notifications improve communication speed

The company said the new app-based functionality eliminates the need for switching between platforms.

Colin Dale, Vismo Global Sales Director, said: “Having all the functionality of our mass notification on the app saves crucial time and gives security teams greater flexibility by not having to be in a static, fixed place of work in front of a computer screen.”

Dale added: “That saves time for employers’ security operations. No longer do they have to switch platforms to run mass notifications or indeed any other function of the app. They can do everything on a smartphone.”

Global connectivity and roaming capabilities

Vismo stated that the system uses more than 600 roaming agreements in a permanent roaming setup to support communication in various conditions.

Dale said: “One unique aspect of our tier one service is our ability to use more than 600 direct roaming agreements globally in a permanent roaming solution where needed.”

He continued: “They give employer organisations very powerful roaming connectivity, with fallbacks and optional eSIMs, to ensure the most robust network connectivity possible for all two-way mass notification actions.”

Multi-channel messaging and intelligence integration

According to Vismo, its app allows secure real-time communication with individuals, groups, or an entire workforce using multi-channel messaging, regardless of location.

The system also integrates with existing employer systems, such as HR databases and security protocols.

The company explained that it incorporates 24/7 intelligence feeds from sources including emergency services, news media and threat detection specialists.

Dale said: “Mass notification is a fundamental part of safeguarding staff in any situation anywhere, whether in at-risk areas and or wherever the unexpected can suddenly happen.”

Dale added: “Immediately they learn of a threat, employer organisations’ security staff, or outsourced security team, can take immediate steps to help.”

He said: “Step number one is to use mass notification to give an urgent warning about what is happening or about to happen, and then give more details, with advice on how to be safe as events unfold.”

Emergency liaison and response coordination

The company said the app enables security teams to gather real-time updates from users and to liaise with emergency services if needed.

Dale explained: “Step two includes optional phone conversations between those under duress or at risk, and security staff, to gain further information including the proximity of the app users to what is unfolding and more detail about it.”

Dale added: “Step three involves liaison with emergency services and private security companies, and, ultimately, evacuation, if required.”

Emergency services response supported by Vismo’s real-time mass notification app: Summary

Vismo has updated its mass notification system to function entirely on mobile devices through the Vismo Monitor App.

The company said the app enables security teams to locate employees and send alerts without desktop access.

Colin Dale, Vismo Global Sales Director, said the change improves operational flexibility and response speed.

The app is compatible with smartphones, satellite phones and trackers.

It is integrated with Vismo’s secure portal to mirror full desktop functionality.

Vismo supports over 600 roaming agreements to maintain connectivity during mass notifications.

Messages can be sent to individuals, groups or entire workforces via multiple channels.

The system integrates with employers’ infrastructure such as HR databases.

The company uses continuous intelligence feeds from emergency services and other sources.

Security teams can use the app to warn staff, provide safety guidance and initiate evacuation procedures.

Phone calls and further liaison with emergency responders are included in the app’s process.

London Fire Brigade upgrades system with live translation

by CommunicationsFeatured News

New emergency system to improve communication with non-English speakers

The London Fire Brigade will deploy a new emergency response system that includes a live language translation feature, according to UK Authority.

The £20 million contract was signed by the London Fire Commissioner and awarded to NEC Software Solutions.

The contract came into effect in February and will run until July 2027.

Features to support incident coordination and public communication

The updated system will allow the public to contact the fire service using platforms such as WhatsApp and other social media channels.

NEC explained that the system will use real-time data analytics to trace call origins, immediately tagging them as incident-related.

The feature aims to help control room staff avoid dispatching duplicate units and make better deployment decisions during larger emergencies.

The company will partner with Mitel to integrate the new communications features.

Multi-language capabilities to improve access for London residents

UK Authority reported that the system’s translation feature is designed to support people who do not speak English as their first language.

This aims to improve communication during emergency calls and help control room operators respond more accurately and quickly.

The London Fire Brigade said the technology reflects its efforts to support a diverse population with accessible emergency services.

Technology investment intended to support operational performance

Patrick Goulbourne, assistant commissioner at the London Fire Brigade, said: “Having the right technology means we can be there for Londoners when they need us most.

“Our crews work under immense pressure, and it’s vital we give them the best tools possible to help protect our capital city and its people.

“This new technology shows our commitment to improving and modernising our service so we can respond to incidents as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

London Fire Brigade to launch upgraded system with live translation: Summary

The London Fire Brigade has signed a £20 million contract with NEC Software Solutions.

The contract came into effect in February 2025 and will run until July 2027.

The system is expected to be operational in 2026.

It includes a live translation feature to help non-English speakers communicate during emergency calls.

The system will also allow contact through WhatsApp and social media platforms.

Real-time data analytics will trace call origins and help coordinate responses.

The technology is intended to avoid duplicating emergency dispatches.

NEC will work with Mitel to integrate communication functions into the control room.

The system is designed to support both operational efficiency and accessibility.

The London Fire Brigade stated that the investment will modernise its service.

Communication in structural safety: CROSS-AUS issues new guidance

by CommunicationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Construction safety gaps outlined in Australia newsletter

CROSS (Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures) has published its latest CROSS-AUS newsletter, which outlines four new Safety Reports focused on structural safety issues in Australia.

According to CROSS, the reports emphasise that communication failures during design, construction, and later modifications of buildings are contributing to recurring structural safety problems.

The newsletter was written by David Donnan, Director of CROSS-AUS.

CROSS stated that designers should account for how structures are built, not just how they perform once complete.

It added that relying on general notes about ‘temporary works by others’ can result in safety risks that are not adequately managed on site.

Temporary works guidance and industry resources

The newsletter highlights the role of temporary works and their associated risks if not properly designed or communicated.

It noted that design professionals frequently separate permanent structure safety from temporary construction phases, despite both requiring oversight.

To support improved practice, CROSS pointed to the work of the Temporary Works Forum in the UK, established in 2010 after several failures.

It added that similar bodies now operate in Australia and New Zealand to offer region-specific guidance.

CROSS also referenced publications from the Institution of Structural Engineers, including the “Temporary Works Toolkit”, which provides structural engineers with best practice documents for temporary works integration.

Issues with proprietary systems and coordination

Two of the reports addressed the use of proprietary flooring systems. CROSS explained that while these systems use precast planks, the design configurations vary, and safe use depends heavily on manufacturer documentation and adherence to erection procedures.

The organisation stated that system stability in temporary phases must be assessed carefully, especially where unbalanced or eccentric loads are expected before full structural interaction is achieved.

Another report outlined the challenges when separate components of a single structure are designed by different engineers.

CROSS noted that failure to understand or communicate component limitations can affect the structure’s overall serviceability and performance.

Structural modifications and site inspections

A further report described the long-term safety implications of modifying and reusing structures.

According to CROSS, documentation of structural changes is essential for understanding how original and new load paths interact.

The report highlighted that load assumptions and building performance requirements can evolve over time.

Without proper records, the risk of instability increases during later modifications or repurposing.

CROSS concluded by stressing the importance of structural engineers being involved during construction.

It advised that on-site inspections, particularly at key stages, can resolve potential misinterpretations early and support safer outcomes.

Communication in structural safety: CROSS-AUS issues new guidance: Summary

CROSS has published a new structural safety newsletter covering four safety reports in Australia.

The newsletter was authored by CROSS-AUS Director David Donnan.

The publication states that poor communication during design and construction contributes to safety risks.

CROSS warned that temporary works are often overlooked or left to others without clear guidance.

It highlighted the Temporary Works Forum and engineering toolkits as helpful resources.

Reports also raised concerns about improper use of proprietary flooring systems.

CROSS noted that understanding design assumptions across different teams is essential.

Structural modifications require detailed documentation to avoid future instability.

CROSS encouraged regular on-site inspections by designers during key construction phases.

AT&T expands FirstNet coverage to rural and tribal public safety sites

by CommunicationsFeatured News

1,000 new FirstNet cell sites launched by AT&T to support emergency services

AT&T has announced the launch of 1,000 new cell sites using Band 14 spectrum to expand FirstNet coverage across the United States.

According to AT&T, these sites form part of a 10-year investment project with the FirstNet Authority focused on strengthening the public safety network.

The new infrastructure extends coverage across 46 states and the District of Columbia, with over two-thirds targeting rural and tribal areas.

The company explained that these locations were prioritised to enhance communications for emergency services at facilities such as fire stations, police departments, hospitals and courthouses.

AT&T stated that the sites were delivered nine months ahead of schedule.

The FirstNet Authority added that these sites are part of a continued effort to support a dedicated public safety network, distinct from commercial systems.

Expansion targets locations identified by public safety agencies

The FirstNet Authority reported that new purpose-built sites are being developed in areas identified by first responders, including tribal and remote regions.

Executive Director and CEO of the FirstNet Authority Joe Wassel said: “These new sites are another major step forward in providing the network that public safety deserves.”

He added: “We have worked closely with first responders to ensure the network delivers reliable, resilient coverage wherever their mission takes them.”

According to the FirstNet Authority, improving rural coverage remains a priority as required by US Congress.

It stated that FirstNet was developed in consultation with public safety and in partnership with rural network operators to extend reach during the initial build phase.

FirstNet now serves nearly 30,000 agencies and organisations

AT&T reported that FirstNet now supports communications for almost 30,000 public safety agencies and organisations across the country.

The company said FirstNet offers priority access and preemption across both 5G and 4G networks.

AT&T added that the MegaRange feature can provide signal strength up to six times higher than other carriers.

Sergeant Cruz Correa of the California Highway Patrol said: “Whether we are responding to rural areas or urban incidents like the recent LA fires, FirstNet is our partner in emergency response.”

He continued: “With a comprehensive network, innovative technology, and critical deployable assets, FirstNet is built with our diverse needs in mind, giving us peace of mind that we can stay connected.”

Engagement efforts continue to inform future FirstNet development

According to the FirstNet Authority, it engaged with more than 53,000 first responders and stakeholders throughout 2024 to inform network planning.

The organisation said these interactions are part of a strategy to identify areas that need enhanced coverage through future builds.

Scott Agnew, president of FirstNet at AT&T, said: “Whether in major cities like Boston or rural areas like Butler, Pa., first responders require reliable communication that is always protected in any emergency.”

He added: “An entire dedicated program of ‘firsts,’ FirstNet is setting the bar for public safety communications so this vital community stays at the forefront of innovative, lifesaving technologies.”

AT&T expands FirstNet coverage to rural and tribal public safety sites: Summary

AT&T has launched 1,000 new cell sites using Band 14 spectrum to expand FirstNet.

The sites were delivered nine months ahead of schedule.

They cover 46 US states and the District of Columbia.

Over two-thirds of the sites are located in rural and tribal areas.

The FirstNet Authority partnered with AT&T on the 10-year initiative.

The programme aims to increase public safety communications coverage.

FirstNet now serves nearly 30,000 agencies and organisations.

Signal strength is enhanced through FirstNet MegaRange.

The FirstNet Authority reported over 1,400 public safety engagements in 2024.

More purpose-built sites are in development.

Congress has mandated rural coverage as part of the programme.

First responders are involved in identifying areas for future expansion.

The FirstNet Authority and AT&T said the network is designed specifically for emergency services.

Quotes from public safety leaders confirm the role of FirstNet in incident response.

AT&T and the FirstNet Authority continue to collaborate on future infrastructure planning.

Blackline Safety expands global presence in fire hazmat safety technology

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsFire DetectionPPE

Global customer growth reported in fire hazmat monitoring

Blackline Safety has reported a 175 percent increase in the number of fire hazmat customers using its connected personal and area monitors worldwide over the past year.

According to Blackline Safety, customer numbers grew from 127 to 350 over the last 12 months.

The company stated that thousands of users are now operating its monitoring solutions across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand.

The company attributed this growth to increased demand among fire and hazmat teams for tools that provide enhanced monitoring and real-time data access during high-risk operations.

Blackline stated that its cloud-connected devices allow remote tracking of personnel safety conditions and support faster response decisions.

NewEXO 8 Gamma monitors set for initial shipment

Blackline Safety has announced that the first shipments of its EXO 8 Gamma area monitors will begin this month.

The monitor is capable of detecting gamma radiation in addition to up to eight gases simultaneously.

According to Blackline, EXO 8 is the only portable area monitor with direct-to-cloud capability and simultaneous gas and gamma detection features.

Doug Mayer, Fire Hazmat Business Development Specialist at Blackline Safety, said: “EXO 8’s gamma detection capability is a game-changer for fire and hazmat teams — not only in emergency response, but also in public event monitoring.”

Mayer added: “From gas leaks and chemical spill incidents of all kinds, and now gamma radiation, we’ve reimagined safety solutions to help responders deploy equipment faster, get more gas exposure information, and share data for real-time visibility.”

Fire teams adopt wider range of connected safety tools

In addition to the EXO 8 Gamma, Blackline Safety reported ongoing uptake of its broader range of connected safety technologies by fire-hazmat teams.

These include G7 personal gas detectors featuring cellular and satellite connectivity, two-way voice communication, fall and no-motion alerts, and automatic data logging.

The G6 single gas detector, offering real-time connectivity and emergency SOS functions, is also in use.

Fire departments are also using Blackline Live, the company’s cloud-based platform that provides real-time information on personnel location, gas exposures and device status from any internet-connected device.

Travis Rebello, Firefighter and Hazmat Coordinator for the City of New Bedford, Massachusetts, said: “Blackline’s remote monitoring capabilities allow me to log in any time and see what my guys are dealing with and then to triage what other assets are needed on the scene at any time.”

Fire industry professionals to see new technology at FDIC International 2025

Blackline Safety will be exhibiting its connected safety products at FDIC International 2025 in Indianapolis from 7 to 12 April.

The company confirmed that it will showcase its portfolio, including the EXO 8 Gamma, G7 and G6 wearables, and the Blackline Live platform, at Booth 943.

FDIC International is one of the fire sector’s largest exhibitions, attracting fire and rescue personnel from multiple regions for demonstrations, training and equipment evaluation.

Attendees will have the opportunity to see live demonstrations of Blackline’s latest technologies and learn how connected systems are being integrated into fire and hazmat operations.

Blackline Safety expands global presence in fire hazmat safety technology: Summary

Blackline Safety has reported a 175 percent year-on-year increase in fire hazmat customers, growing from 127 to 350 clients across several regions including North America, Europe and Australasia.

The company stated that its cloud-connected safety devices are being increasingly adopted for their ability to support remote monitoring and real-time data sharing during emergency response operations.

The firm will begin shipping its EXO 8 Gamma area monitors later this month.

This model can detect up to eight gases and gamma radiation simultaneously and is connected directly to the cloud.

Blackline also reported continued adoption of its G7 and G6 gas detectors and Blackline Live cloud platform.

These tools offer features such as SOS alerts, two-way communication and live tracking.

Blackline Safety will showcase its technologies at FDIC International 2025 in Indianapolis from 7 to 12 April, where it will demonstrate its monitoring systems at Booth 943.