The importance of appropriate certification

by Breaking NewsEventsFire Detection

Joao Paulo Ajami, Managing Director and Founder of Global Fire Equipment (GFE), explains why taking a consistent approach to certification is key when specifying fire detection and alarm products

Many in the worldwide fire safety industry have noticed a worrying trend towards performance specifications naming a chosen ‘approval’ or ‘approval body’ as the sole mark of product certification or compliance.

Misunderstanding the certification process in this way can have far-reaching risks.

To understand why, we firstly need to understand the difference between a Notified Body and an approval.

A Notified Body

For EN certification, a Notified Body is authorised by the EU to assess products under the relevant EN 54 CPR regulations.

Under the Nando (New Approach Notified and Designated Organisations) Information System, notification is an act whereby a member state informs the European Commission and the other member states that a body, which fulfils the relevant requirements, has been designated to carry out conformity assessment according to a specific standard.

The Notified Body has responsibility for testing the product/s, verifying the supporting evidence that a product meets the test requirements, issuing a product certificate and undertaking ongoing testing or surveillance activities.

To achieve consistent regulatory compliance for their products, manufacturers can choose which EU Notified Body to appoint as long as it is certified to test against the relevant EN 54 standards.

An ‘approval’

An ‘approval’ is not the same thing as EN 54 product certification via an EU Notified Body.

Whereas a Notified Body’s work is regulated and verifies that products comply with a standard, approvals are normally voluntary schemes which certain Notified Bodies sometimes offer as an additional service.

Some Notified Bodies run their own product directories, listings or certification schemes, for example.

These schemes are not mandated by a regulation and may go beyond the legal EN 54 product standard requirements under their Notified Body activities.

In some regions, some of these schemes are being promoted within the system performance specification, with the suggestion that they are the only route to compliance, but that’s not the case.

The only performance route to EN 54 standard compliance is via an EU Notified Body certifying that products meet the requirements of the relevant EN 54 standards.

Instead of specifying a particular Notified Body, it is essential that the correct product and system standards are cited within the fire detection and alarm performance specification.

In some countries where the CE mark is not recognised, we have seen a rise in the number of performance specifications which state that a product must be approved by a particular ‘approval body’ – who may or may not be an EU Notified Body.

The end client may specify a particular approval as they believe it to be EN 54 compliant within that region.

As I explained above, if any type of mark or logo other than the CPR CE mark is specified, this is a risk as it goes against the ISO/IEC 17000 standards which are there to ensure that the product has been certified and tested appropriately to the relevant EN 54 standard.

If performance specifications only state that products must have an approval (rather than a CPR CE mark from a Notified Body), there is a real risk that the manufacturer might have outdated products and may not have updated their standards in line with EN 54 requirements.

By writing performance specifications that quote the European EN 54 standards, specifiers will be adhering to the CPR regulations.

This will ensure that the manufacturer and its products are certified by an EU Notified Body through the CPR to EN 54 products standards and can therefore carry the appropriate CE Mark as required.

With more widespread awareness of the need for appropriate certification, it is hoped that fire safety system specifiers will place more emphasis on the right standards and accreditations, rather than the approval body.

This would create greater competition among those accredited manufacturers who meet the specific EN 54 standards for fire safety products.

Globally, we are seeing a shift in the fire safety sector away from a product-based approach and towards a systems-based approach to specifying fire detection equipment.

There is a marked increase in the number of authorities, specifiers, installers and end users requesting latest version of EN 54-13 compliance.

We are also seeing EN 54-13 compliance being stated in the approval requirements for commercial installations in several European countries.

Moving forward, we anticipate that EN 54-13 – the whole system standard – will be specified in an increasing number of projects.

EN 54-13, which was first introduced in 2005, is a rigorous standard that proves all the components in a fire safety system are compatible and connectable, thereby working effectively as one system.

The standard was upgraded in 2017 when the previous 2015 version was withdrawn.

There are currently two versions of the standard in place with the most up to date one being EN 54-13:2017+A1:2019.

There are two different classifications of approval – component suppliers (e.g.

detector or panel suppliers) and complete systems providers.

Having been awarded EN 54-13 2017/2019 approval in March 2021, GFE is a complete systems provider and takes full responsibility for the system.

To ensure continued compliance, regular conformance testing will be undertaken internally and communicated to third party approvals.

Ongoing systems testing is much easier when the manufacturer is responsible for the full system.

At GFE, for example, we continually test all the components of our systems under extreme conditions to ensure full system compatibility.

A key benefit for installers and end customers of choosing an EN54-13:2017+A1:2019 approved supplier is that they will take full responsibility for the system, and you have one dedicated point of contact and full technical support, making it much easier to get quick and easy resolutions for any issues such as system computability and any warranty issues or component failures.

Further guidance

I hope that by highlighting the importance of accreditation it will encourage more companies to understand the right route to EN 54 certification of fire detection and alarm products.

EN 54 product certification is clearly a legislative minefield, so it is easy to see why some confusion exists around the difference between Notified Bodies and approvals.

Our experts are available to support any companies who require further clarification on this complex matter.

If you’re going to be attending Intersec 2024 (16-18 Jan) in Dubai, come to our stand (Stand F10, Hall 3) where you will be able to talk to our experts about certification.

Intersec Dubai will take place between the 16th and 18th of January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai. Global Fire Equipment’s Stand Number is 3-F10. For further information on Global Fire Equipment, please visit www.globalfire-equipment.com.

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

Extinguishing neglect with Safety Technology International

by Breaking NewsEventsFire Detection

Safety Technology International Marketing Manager Liam Hunt looks at why fire extinguisher misuse is a threat to fire safety in the UAE

Fire extinguishers are a vital piece of the Active Fire Protection puzzle; often the first line of defence they are integral to preventing costly fire damage and ultimately, loss of life.

The importance of fire extinguishers is highlighted in Chapter 4 of the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice: “Portable Fire Extinguishers are the best available first response to table the fire at its incipient stage.”

The Code of Practice adds that to ensure this first aid response, fire extinguishers shall be “kept in their designated places at all times when they are not being used” and “conspicuously located where they will be readily accessible and immediately available in the event of fire.”

However, the misuse and neglect of fire extinguishers and their accessories in Dubai’s buildings is not uncommon, rendering them inaccessible or ineffective in a real emergency.

As part of the Office of the UAE Attorney General’s ongoing campaign to increase the public’s level of awareness of the law, it was announced that fines and even jail sentences would be handed down for fire extinguisher misuse.

The office states in Article 311 of the Federal Penal code, that: “Any person who removes a fire extinguisher or changes its location or renders it unfit for use shall be punished by a jail sentence for no less than one year or a fine of not less than 50,000 AED.”

With requirements for extinguishers to be installed near doors or exits, it is all too tempting for fire extinguishers to be used as temporary doorstops.

Seeking to improve airflow, the removal of fire extinguishers to wedge open doors threatens to undermine fire safety, making the extinguisher difficult to locate in an emergency.

Safety Technology International (STI)’s Extinguisher Stopper® is a sturdy, tamperproof, standalone alarm that prevents the misuse or unwanted removal of fire extinguishers.

Strong PVC coated metal rope wraps around the neck of the extinguisher and when removed from the unit will activate a piercing 95/106 dB alarm to alert you to any misuse or removal.

Acting as a physical safety seal and audible tamper indicator, the Extinguisher Stopper® helps the person responsible for the inspection and maintenance of extinguishers avoid fines or a jail sentence for failing to keep them fit for use.

The self-contained unit will leave the extinguisher accessible for emergencies and will not interfere in the event of a real fire; the alarm is also useful in the case of an actual emergency acting as a pre-alarm, helping to alert people in the surrounding areas to the fire before an official alarm has sounded.

The compact design of the UV-stabilised polycarbonate unit means it mounts easily next to a vulnerable fire extinguisher, the alarm is easy to install and a deactivation cable is supplied for ease of servicing the protected extinguisher – a requirement of the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice.

Recent updates to the unit include universal sound symbols for global recognition and space for a choice of 21 different language labels that are provided, including Arabic.

Wireless options allowing for remote monitoring are also available using STI protocol.

Intersec Dubai will take place between the 16th and 18th of January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai. Safety Technology International’s Stand number is 5-B17. To find out more about STI, visit: https://www.sti-emea.com/

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

Regaining control with Kentec Electronics

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

Why Kentec Electronic’s Taktis Fire is taking centre stage at Intersec’s milestone anniversary trade show

Kentec Electronics, a leading manufacturer of life-critical control systems, will showcase its leading range of extinguishant release panels and its depth of fire detection, alarm and control portfolio at Intersec 2024; demonstrating how the future of the industry lies within open-protocol technology.

Fire control system innovation

The award-winning Taktis Fire, will take centre stage, with the UL and EN variant exhibiting a new era of integration with fire safety systems being connected with building infrastructure and intelligence; and across a number of global regions and compliance regulations.

Enhanced by powerful cause and effect technology, and a system of failsafe redundancy features, Kentec’s premium panel, Taktis Fire, is suitable for the most complex of sites; configurable for up to 40,000 inputs or outputs across an entire connected network; across up to 144 zone indications; and networking up to 127 panels.

This power is further realised through its open-protocol makeup, providing installers and customers with flexibility in system design, site customisation and in the third-party devices that they use, with the added benefit of interchangeable component parts.

Building upon the global success of the market-leading Sigma XT, Kentec will also be showcasing the Sigma ZXT extinguishant release and control system.

The ZXT can be configured to release targeted extinguishant upon alarm across a single or combination of up to three conventional detection zones, limiting property damage and reducing costs in the event of fire or false alarm.

Kentec’s K-Mesh wireless detection system will also be featured, showing how its patented self-healing and configuring MESH technology delivers optimum levels of reliability in wireless applications.

Configurable from two to 2,000 devices across a communication range of up to 1,200m, and enhanced by a market-leading 10-year battery life, K-Mesh allows multiple avenues of wireless communication to be relayed between field devices, wireless translators and their associated fire control panels.

And rounding off its display, Kentec’s Elite RS analogue addressable fire control panel will also feature at Intersec.

Suitable for small and medium sites that require advanced fire sensing and evacuation options, the Elite RS control panel can be expanded to become part of a much larger system, with microprocessor-based electronics providing a flexible system with a high degree of reliability and integrity.

With its large graphical display and ergonomic button and indicator layout, and the added benefit of UL and FM approvals, the Elite RS is simple and straightforward to understand for installers, commissioning engineers and end-users alike.

‘Life-critical technologies’

Derrick Hall, Director of Sales and Marketing at Kentec, says Intersec provides an opportunity to highlight the broad scope of Kentec’s expertise: “We look forward to showing Kentec’s life-critical technologies, and how integration is not just a buzzword, but a priority for a modern manufacturer like us,” he explains.

“The ability to combine a host of life-saving technologies into building infrastructure, and network systems with one another, regardless of what is already installed, is exciting, and means our products can be utilised in several different scenarios and projects.

The technology on show at Intersec reflects our commitment to making life easier for installers and enhancing operation and lifecycle performance for end users, specifiers and decision makers alike.”

“Plus, we will be demonstrating some recent updates to our premium product – Taktis Fire , for powerful  cause and effect features making it suitable for smoke and fire damper controls and the most demanding and complex building applications    – so be sure to come by and visit.”

IFSJ Comment

The integration of various fire safety solutions by Kentec Electronics are demonstrative of a  pivotal development in fire safety management.

This integration facilitates a cohesive approach to fire safety, where different systems, such as the Taktis Fire, Sigma ZXT, K-Mesh, and Elite RS, work in unison, ensuring a more comprehensive safety net.

This synergy is crucial in emergency scenarios where every second counts, and coordinated system responses can significantly mitigate damage and enhance safety.

The adaptability of these systems to various building infrastructures and compliance regulations is especially pertinent in a world where fire safety standards are continually evolving and varying across geographies.

Kentec’s solutions provide a one-stop answer to these diverse and changing needs, ensuring that buildings everywhere can be equipped with state-of-the-art fire safety technology.

The open-protocol nature of these systems offers easier integration with existing infrastructure and third-party devices, making these practical and cost-effective for installers and end-users.

Kentec’s integrated solutions underscore the importance of interoperability, adaptability, and user-friendliness in modern fire safety systems.

These attributes contribute to creating safer, more efficient, and more responsive fire management infrastructures, crucial in today’s fast-paced and safety-conscious world.

Intersec Dubai will take place between the 16th and 18th of January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai. Kentec’s Stand Number is 3-E22. To find out more about Kentec, visit: https://kentec.co.uk/

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

Bosch unveils Aviotec 8000i IR Camera

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Advanced AI algorithms for effective detection

Bosch Building Technologies has recently introduced the Aviotec 8000i IR camera, incorporating advanced AI algorithms based on deep learning.

These algorithms allow the camera to accurately differentiate real fires from false alarms in real time.

This innovative technology promises a significant leap in fire safety, particularly in challenging environments like manufacturing sites with hazardous materials and outdoor spaces prone to wind, humidity, and dust​​.

Superior performance over conventional detectors

The Aviotec 8000i IR camera outperforms traditional aspirating smoke detectors, achieving approximately three times faster detection times.

This enhancement is pivotal in improving the reliability and accuracy of fire detection systems.

The camera can transmit alarms or trouble signals to a local network or directly to a central fire panel, enhancing the responsiveness to actual fire situations​​.

Round-the-clock protection with IR Illuminator

The integrated infrared (IR) illuminator in the Aviotec 8000i IR camera ensures 24/7 fire protection, enabling it to detect smoke and flames even in total darkness.

This feature eliminates the need for additional lighting, including emergency lighting, making the camera a more convenient and cost-effective solution for fire safety​​.

Simplified installation process

The Aviotec 8000i IR camera is designed for easy installation, being a one-product solution that requires no additional accessories.

It features a rugged, waterproof housing, a new 4-megapixel sensor, and a motorized lens, all integrated into one unit.

Moreover, its Power-over-Ethernet capability eliminates the need for installing separate power cables​​.

Expanding applications in various environments

This new technology expands the camera’s applications, enhancing fire safety in diverse settings.

It is particularly beneficial in manufacturing areas with hazardous materials, train and metro stations, and electric car charging stations, where traditional fire alarms may have limitations.

The camera’s sensitive AI algorithms can detect smoke even in windy conditions, helping to prevent fire spread in open spaces​​.

Decade of expertise and global trust

“The new Aviotec 8000i IR is the result of more than a decade of expertise in video-based fire detection,” stated Patrizia Bogers, Global Business Development Manager Aviotec.

Thousands of Aviotec cameras operating across 72 countries reflect the global trust in this proven technology​​.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the Aviotec 8000i IR camera by Bosch marks a significant advancement in fire safety technology.

The integration of AI algorithms for accurate fire detection addresses the critical need for reliable fire safety measures in challenging environments.

This innovation not only enhances safety in high-risk areas but also offers practical benefits like simplified installation and round-the-clock protection.

The Aviotec 8000i IR camera’s ability to outperform traditional fire detection systems signifies a paradigm shift in how fire safety is approached, particularly in industrial and outdoor settings.

Its global usage and acceptance further attest to its effectiveness and reliability.

As fire safety standards continue to evolve, such technological innovations play a crucial role in shaping a safer future.

Wireless fire detection systems market poised for significant growth by 2027

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Market overview

The wireless fire detection systems market is set to experience significant growth in the coming years.

As per The Business Research Company’s global market report for 2023, the market size is projected to increase from $1.88 billion in 2022 to $2.03 billion in 2023.

This remarkable growth, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.0%, is expected to continue, reaching $2.72 billion by 2027, with a maintained CAGR of 7.6%​​.

Key drivers of growth

The primary catalyst for this market growth is the escalating adoption of the smart city concept.

Smart cities, which integrate technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data, are increasingly incorporating advanced fire detection systems to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Wireless fire detection systems, in this context, are essential for ensuring the safety and security of such urban developments.

The construction of the smart city Neom in Saudi Arabia, as part of the Vision 2030 plan, exemplifies this trend​​.

Market leaders and trends

The market is currently concentrated, with the top ten competitors accounting for 43.7% of the total market in 2022.

Siemens AG leads the market with an 11.2% share, followed by Honeywell International, Inc.

with 9.2%.

Other key players include Robert Bosch Gmbh, Johnson Controls International PLC, Halma Plc, Hochiki Corporation, Ceasefire Industries Pvt.

Ltd, EMS Wireless Fire & Security Ltd, Electro Detectors Ltd, and Eurofyre Ltd.

The market trends highlight strategies such as the development of rapid detection and alert features, advanced tools for smaller fire systems, hybrid wireless fire detectors, and collaborative initiatives among industry players​​.

Market segmentation

The wireless fire detection systems market is segmented across various dimensions, including product type (smoke detector, heat detector, gas detector, multi-sensor detector), model (fully wireless, hybrid), installation type (new installation, retrofit), application (indoor, outdoor), and vertical (residential, commercial, government, manufacturing)​​.

Future prospects for wireless fire detection

The market is on an upward trajectory, driven by the growing adoption of smart city concepts and advancements in technology.

Industry players can maximize their potential by leveraging insights from the Global Wireless Fire Detection Systems Market Report 2023.

This report offers a comprehensive analysis of market trends, competitive landscapes, and strategic opportunities, empowering businesses to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging prospects​​.

IFSJ Comment

The rapid expansion of the wireless fire detection systems market signifies a major shift in fire safety and security protocols, particularly in the context of modern urban development.

The integration of these systems into the fabric of smart cities highlights a pivotal move towards more technologically advanced, efficient, and safer urban environments.

The significant investment and interest from major market players underscore the importance and potential of this market.

This trend not only reflects technological advancements but also a growing awareness of the need for sophisticated fire safety measures in both residential and commercial sectors.

As the market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for industry players to stay abreast of the latest developments and technological innovations to maintain a competitive edge.

Ramtech expands European network with Lithuanian partner

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Ramtech, a global leader in wireless solutions, has announced its collaboration with UAB Saugos Tarnyba “Argus”, appointing them as the exclusive distributor in Lithuania.

This strategic partnership aims to enhance site safety across Europe and particularly in Lithuania, broadening Ramtech’s reach and influence in European safety solutions.

Enhancing construction site safety in Lithuania

The alliance with UAB Saugos Tarnyba “Argus” is a significant move in Ramtech’s European expansion, marking its presence across 16 territories with support in nine languages.

This collaboration is set to deliver a robust level of protection to construction sites during their temporary phases. UAB Saugos Tarnyba “Argus” will distribute Ramtech’s Wireless Evacuation System (WES3), a proven system in safeguarding numerous high-profile projects including Manchester Airport and the Bank of Austria in Vienna.

Justyna Seed, Ramtech’s Business Development Manager in Europe, commented on the partnership: “We are excited to welcome UAB Saugos Tarnyba ‘Argus’ into our network of esteemed partners.

“Their expertise and dedication make them an ideal collaborator to bring our WES3 solutions to the Lithuanian market.”

Ramtech’s WES3 system: A game-changer in fire safety

WES3, the core product in this partnership, is renowned for its reliability and effectiveness.

The system features manual fire and medical alarm call points, designed to be interlinked for uniform alerts across all site areas.

This is particularly crucial in ensuring comprehensive fire safety in environments where conventional wired solutions are impractical.

The system’s mesh protocol ensures overcoming common signal obstacles like steel structures, offering greater protection.

Romualdas Jonaitis, Chairman at UAB Saugos Tarnyba “Argus”, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to join forces with Ramtech and introduce its WES3 wireless fire detection and evacuation solutions to Lithuania.

“This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to safety, and we believe it will greatly benefit our clients, particularly those operating in challenging and dynamic environments.”

Future prospects and information

This partnership between Ramtech and UAB Saugos Tarnyba “Argus” is set to elevate the standards of fire detection and evacuation solutions in Lithuania, contributing to a safer and more secure environment.

For further information about Ramtech and its comprehensive range of wireless fire safety solutions, interested parties can visit www.ramtechglobal.com.

IFSJ Comment

The collaboration between Ramtech and UAB Saugos Tarnyba “Argus” marks a significant stride in enhancing construction site safety in Lithuania and, by extension, in Europe.

Ramtech’s decision to expand its network by partnering with a Lithuanian company underscores the growing importance of international cooperation in safety technology.

The deployment of WES3 systems in Lithuania represents an innovative approach in fire safety, emphasising the need for adaptable and efficient solutions in dynamic construction environments.

This partnership strengthens safety standards and signifies a commitment to global safety protocols, fostering a culture of preparedness and prevention.

As safety challenges evolve, such collaborations become crucial in ensuring the protection of investments and lives.

Euralarm addresses concerns over CRA Classification of Critical Products

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Euralarm, a prominent voice in the fire safety and security industry, has recently published a statement regarding the categorisation of alarm systems as critical products under the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).

This statement, highlighting key concerns and recommendations, comes as a response to ongoing discussions about the CRA, which aims to enhance the cyber resilience of products and services in the European Union.

Understanding Euralarm’s position on CRA Critical Products

The statement issued by Euralarm underscores the organisation’s anticipation for a clear and proportionate final text of the CRA.

Euralarm’s primary concern revolves around the potential categorization of some products from the sectors it covers as critical Class I.

The organisation emphasises the necessity of using well-defined terms when listing security products or alarm systems in Annex III as critical Class I category.

The term “smart,” as used in the compromised amendments from the European Parliament, is highlighted as a particularly vague term that can lead to varied interpretations.

Clarity and industry involvement in CRA implementation

Euralarm is advocating for a description of the category in the CRA that is as clear as possible, to ensure that industry members understand the range of products targeted by the European Parliament and the Council.

The organisation also stresses the importance of involving industry stakeholders in preparing the complementary acts foreseen by Article 6(3) of the CRA.

This involvement is seen as crucial for producing complementary acts that are well understood, interpreted, and ensure legal certainty for the industry.

Recommendations for a balanced and effective CRA

Euralarm’s statement includes specific recommendations for the co-legislators and the European Commission.

The organisation requests that the European Commission, particularly DG CNECT, involve industry stakeholders in the preparation of the complementary acts.

Euralarm believes that contributions from industry stakeholders, who are responsible for placing these products on the market, will assist the European Commission in creating well-defined and legally certain complementary acts.

IFSJ Comment

The Euralarm statement on the CRA critical products classification is a significant development in the ongoing dialogue about cybersecurity and the resilience of critical infrastructure.

It reflects the concerns of a major industry player regarding the implications of legislative changes on the fire safety and security sector.

Euralarm’s call for clarity and industry involvement underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers both security needs and the practicalities of implementing such regulations.

Hochiki Europe enhances fire safety for petroleum storage leader

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

In a significant move for fire safety within the petroleum industry, Hochiki Europe has successfully implemented its SIL2 compliant fire detection range for a global giant in petroleum storage and distribution.

Hochiki Europe’s technology secures petroleum storage safety

Metron Energy Applications, a prominent figure since 1997 with a broad spectrum of projects in over 45 countries, has appointed Formula Techniki S.A. to oversee the installation of a new fire detection system in Tema, Ghana.

The project, aimed at ensuring the safety of a new petroleum products storage and distribution terminal, required the meticulous selection of technology that guarantees superior safety standards.

The comprehensive installation by Formula Techniki S.A., a subsidiary of Metron Energy Applications, leveraged the expertise of Hochiki Europe, given their established partnership and proven track record in fire safety for hazardous environments.

The choice for Hochiki’s SIL-2 detection range was clear, considering the high-risk nature of the operation.

This range, including smoke sensors, sounders, modules, and call points, is renowned for not only meeting but surpassing the requisite safety standards for such critical installations.

Safety Integrity Level: a standard for hazardous operation safety

The selection of SIL, which stands for Safety Integrity Level, reflects the industry’s commitment to rigorous safety protocols as set by the International Electro-Technical Commission (IEC).

This system enables operators to effectively gauge the safety performance necessary for hazardous operations, a practice widely embraced in sectors dealing with hydrocarbons and gases.

Angelos Angelikas, the project manager from Formula Techniki, highlighted the cross-continental challenges and the importance of effective collaboration: “The main challenge for us was that we are based in Greece, and this project was taking place in Ghana, almost 7,000km away.

“We were chosen due to our expertise in working in challenging hazardous environments such as this.

“We had a strict time schedule to stick to, so communication between us, our client, and the team at Hochiki was vital.

“The Hochiki technical team were a great help when it came to the technical installation, particularly as the fire detection system of the building we were working in needed to connect with the main fire detection of the whole complex.

“We would absolutely recommend Hochiki and their range of SIL products for customers operating in these industries.”

For further information on Hochiki Europe’s fire safety solutions, visit their website.

IFSJ Comment

The integration of Hochiki Europe’s advanced fire detection systems in hazardous environments sets a new benchmark for industrial safety.

The meticulous planning and execution of such projects exemplify the global collaboration essential to advancing fire safety standards.

The successful installation at the Ghana terminal stands as a testament to the importance of choosing reliable technology partners in high-stakes industries.

The usage of SIL2 rated equipment by companies like Hochiki Europe offers enhanced security and safety, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach in protecting assets and lives against the backdrop of potential industrial hazards.

Honeywell introduces digitised fire alarm system with automatic self-testing detectors

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Honeywell Gent, a leading name in fire and life safety, has unveiled a groundbreaking fire alarm system.

This system comes with EN-approved self-testing smoke and heat detectors that offer the capability for automatic testing.

Honewell has claimed this development will revolutionise the ways in which life safety systems are commissioned, tested, and maintained.

Enhanced efficiency and reliability in fire safety

The Gent Vigilon panel with Self-Test is designed to offer scalable and trustworthy protection.

Furthermore, it aims to boost the productivity of fire engineers by offering efficient monitoring and flexible reporting options.

Lionel Caillat, vice president and general manager, Commercial Fire EMEA at Honeywell, commented on this development: “Honeywell is integrating intelligence across all aspects of life safety systems.

“By digitising the most essential system in the building, we’re creating more efficient and reliable systems.

“Through connected services, we’re assisting building owners in achieving visibility of all their pivotal fire and life safety system assets.

“This initiative will significantly aid the sector in striving towards the establishment of safer and more compliant buildings.”

The significance of a connected fire alarm system ecosystem

The Gent Vigilon panel, in conjunction with the Self-Test range of detectors, is integrated seamlessly into the Honeywell Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS) cloud-based platform.

The CLSS platform grants technicians and facility managers real-time insights into the fire system.

This real-time connection allows maintenance engineers to proactively identify and address potential issues, leading to enhanced first-time fix rates and minimising time spent on-site.

A fire system that automates testing and detection

One of the standout features of the Self-Test range of detectors is their ability to navigate and overcome physical barriers that are typically encountered during testing and maintenance procedures.

Obstacles such as locked rooms, high ceilings, voids, and other hard-to-reach spaces often go unchecked, thereby putting buildings in jeopardy.

However, with the Self-Test range, both optical and heat sensors can be assessed.

Additionally, the system ensures that smoke entry points remain obstruction-free.

This enables a single maintenance engineer to initiate a comprehensive building test, ensuring adherence to compliance measures.

Notably, this also eliminates the substantial time traditionally necessary for visual inspections, as all can be managed through the CLSS application.

The Gent Vigilon panel, combined with the Self-Test range of detectors, is currently available for purchase in the United Kingdom via Honeywell Gent System Integrators.

IFSJ Comment

Honeywell Gent’s latest introduction to the fire and life safety domain is a notable step in the evolution of fire safety systems.

By combining automation with digital capabilities, this new system addresses common challenges faced by fire engineers and building managers.

The capability to remotely monitor, diagnose, and initiate system tests can have far-reaching implications for building safety and compliance.

Moreover, the system’s adaptability to overcome common physical barriers ensures thorough testing, a vital factor in building safety.

London apartments near Canary Wharf undergo major fire system upgrade with Hyfire wireless devices

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Hyfire’s Taurus range ensures optimal wireless fire protection

A prominent residential development located near Canary Wharf and the renowned Cutty Sark has enhanced its fire safety measures with wireless fire protection, thanks to state-of-the-art detectors, sounders, call points, and other devices from Hyfire’s Taurus range.

Installation highlights and specialist involvement

A comprehensive upgrade of the building’s fire system involved the installation of nearly 2,000 Hyfire devices.

Among these were 913 heat detectors. Additionally, a temporary system, which can be repurposed or later removed, was put in place for the repair of defective cladding.

The entire project comprised five Advanced MxPro 5 panels and also featured a paging system to cater to residents with visual impairments and other requirements.

This work was carried out by Chameleon Systems, based in Gerrards Cross, recognised for their proficiency in supplying fire alarm systems to large-scale endeavours.

All of this was executed following a design and blueprint formulated by Julian Crouch of Integrity Fire, the lead consultant for this venture.

Julian Crouch remarked: “This project was so big that some companies had actually turned down the chance to tender, but we knew that it could be delivered with the latest wireless tech from Hyfire.

“I worked closely with Chameleon, the residents’ management company and the team at Hyfire to design and specify a system that they could be installed rapidly and with minimal impact on the fabric of the building.

“The brief was to deliver the completed system with minimum disruption to residents, and Taurus allowed us to achieve this, along with savings in labour costs and reduced installation times – up to 90% less than a full wired system.”

Sharing her insights, Christina Keating, Managing Director at Chameleon Systems, stated: “From being a niche product sector not so long ago, wireless is becoming the default choice for residential fire systems, where time is of the essence and where access to the residential units can be complex to arrange.

“Therefore, the benefits of being able to pre-programme a device offsite and install it in a few minutes, with no need to ‘make good’ afterwards, cannot be overstated, especially on a project of this size.”

Hyfire’s extensive offerings and their market reputation

Hyfire boasts a vast array of commercial-standard wireless fire devices, encompassing optical, multi-criteria, and heat detectors, among others.

These devices are all fully accredited to EN54, and they align with BS5839 Part 1.

Their panels connect through a loop to translators, allowing for the creation of fully wireless systems or combined solutions with Hyfire’s wired offerings.

Chris McGregor, Regional Sales Manager for Hyfire, shared his views: “We have a great working relationship with Julian at Integrity and with the team at Chameleon, so when they approached us with this massive project, we were only too happy to help them design the optimum system to cover the entire complex.

“Using the bespoke TauREX software package, they were able to install and commission the system in record time.”

Originating from Trieste, Italy – a hub for wireless fire design – Taurus incorporates Pathfinder Technology.

This enables the devices to transmit signals over long distances, reducing the need for multiple pieces of equipment and batteries, thereby curbing costs.

IFSJ Comment

For a sprawling urban city like London, ensuring that large residential complexes are equipped with the latest in fire safety technology is paramount.

The revamp of this residential development near Canary Wharf with wireless fire protection devices from Hyfire’s Taurus range is a testament to the industry’s commitment to safety, innovation, and efficiency.

With wireless systems now becoming a preferred choice, this upgrade also reflects the changing dynamics of fire safety measures in residential buildings.

Hyfire and Chameleon Systems’ collaboration showcases how expert knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and meticulous planning can ensure the safety of numerous residents.