Hochiki Europe launches FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementEvacuationHospitalityLightingLightingPublic Events

FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting has been introduced by Hochiki Europe to provide a discreet emergency lighting solution for theatres, cinemas, nightclubs and other design-conscious venues

Hochiki Europe has expanded its emergency lighting portfolio with the launch of the FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting range, offering a discreet solution for entertainment venues where maintaining the visual atmosphere is a priority.

The new FIREscape Nepto Black Edition emergency lighting has been developed for theatres, cinemas, nightclubs and similar venues where traditional white emergency lighting can stand out in darkened spaces. Its black finish is designed to blend into contemporary interiors while delivering the same performance as the standard FIREscape Nepto range.

The addressable system is built around a control panel connected to self-contained LED luminaires and exit signs using screened, extra-low voltage cabling. Each luminaire features an intelligent back-up battery capable of providing the required three hours of emergency operation in the event of a power failure.

According to Hochiki Europe, the low-voltage design and continuous self-testing and monitoring capabilities help simplify installation and maintenance while reducing associated costs compared with central battery or mains-powered emergency lighting systems.

The luminaire batteries have an expected lifespan of 10 years, helping to minimise replacement and maintenance requirements over the lifetime of the installation. The luminaires are certified to BS EN 60598-2-22 and BS EN 62034 Type PERC, while exit signs comply with BS EN ISO 7010. The complete system also meets the requirements of BS 5266.

The FIREscape Nepto range is designed to be scalable, with each control panel supporting up to two lighting lines and 127 devices per line. Up to 12 panels can also be networked together and controlled from a single keypad, making the system suitable for both single-site installations and larger estates.

The system includes adjustable lighting levels, day and night operating modes and the ability to configure luminaires as maintained or non-maintained, allowing users to tailor operation outside emergency situations.

While aimed at entertainment venues, Hochiki Europe said the Black Edition is also suitable for other environments where aesthetics are important, including premium retail spaces, gyms and modern office developments.

The FIREscape Nepto Black Edition is available now from Hochiki Europe.

How fireground lighting solutions are supporting safer fire and rescue operations

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentLightingLightingProductsSearch and Rescue

Ahead of INTERSCHUTZ 2026, Streamlight® introduces new fireground lighting solutions and safety-rated products designed to improve visibility, coordination and operational safety across modern fire and rescue environments

Across fire and rescue operations, effective lighting supports visibility, safety and control in some of the most demanding working environments. It is a critical part of operational safety, situational awareness and effective decision-making.

From hazardous atmospheres and smoke-filled interiors to large incident scenes, responders require lighting tools that are matched to the task, the risk and the environment.

Streamlight® will be showcasing its latest fire industry product launches and wider professional lighting offerings at INTERSCHUTZ 2026, taking place from 1 to 6 June 2026 in Hannover, Germany.

Visitors will be able to see the Streamlight® products on Stand H37, Hall 27, including a broad selection of safety-rated and general fireground lighting solutions.

New fireground lighting solutions from Streamlight®

Streamlight® recently expanded its professional fire and emergency response offerings with two new products announced at FDIC International. The Portable Scene Light III and LiteBox® 1Million® add further capability to the company’s portfolio, supporting both wide-area scene illumination and long-range search applications.

The Portable Scene Light III builds on the capabilities of the Portable Scene Light and Portable Scene Light II, which came before it. It is a rugged, waterproof, high-lumen portable lighting solution designed for demanding emergency scenes, job sites and first responder applications.

Featuring twelve powerful LEDs with wide-pattern reflectors, it delivers a uniform beam for maximum coverage, helping crews illuminate large working areas quickly and effectively.

With three adjustable brightness levels, the Portable Scene Light III can be adapted to suit the operational requirements. On High, it delivers 10,000 lumens, 121,000 candela and a 696 metre beam distance, with a run time of two hours.

Medium provides 5,000 lumens, 61,100 candela and a 494 metre beam distance, running for four hours, while Low offers 2,500 lumens, 38,000 candela and a 390 metre beam distance, with an eight hour run time.

Designed for flexibility in the field, the Portable Scene Light III supports multiple power options, including a swappable Streamlight® SL-P6™ Lithium-Ion battery pack, dedicated charger, AC power supply or DC power source. Its light head offers 360° rotation and 180° pivoting, giving crews a full range of motion to direct illumination exactly where it is needed.

The included wireless remote controls all functions from up to 75 feet away and can be paired with multiple lights for simultaneous use. The modular design allows the light head to be used with or without the heavy-duty tripod, supporting both elevated scene lighting and more flexible close-range deployment.

With rugged construction, IPX7 waterproof rating with the battery installed, reversible spiked tripod feet and an integrated carry handle, the Portable Scene Light III is built for all-weather use across demanding emergency environments.

For long-range search and scene lighting, the LiteBox® 1Million® provides a powerful new option within the Streamlight® line-up. It is a rugged, heavy-duty, rechargeable and fully portable high-intensity search light/scene light engineered for demanding professional use.

Delivering 1.25 million candlepower, it emits a focused beam capable of illuminating objects up to 1.39 miles away, while also providing peripheral light for broader visibility.

The LiteBox® 1Million® offers High and Low modes. On High, it delivers 3,300 lumens, 1,250,000 candela and a 2,236 metre beam distance, with a run time of 4.5 hours. On Low, it provides 525 lumens, 200,000 candela and an 894 metre beam distance, with a run time of 22.5 hours.

Its articulating light head pivots 135° and rotates 270°, allowing users to position the beam for long[1]range identification, scanning and scene support.

For fire and rescue teams, the LiteBox® 1Million® is particularly valuable in outdoor searches, perimeter assessment, waterway operations, large incident grounds and other situations where long-distance visibility is essential.

Its rechargeable lithium-ion power system, integrated battery status indicator, heavy-duty shoulder strap and IPX4 water-resistant design make it a practical tool for demanding professional use.

Together, these products are impressive new additions to an already strong selection of fire lighting solutions offered by Streamlight®.

Why safety-rated fireground lighting matters

Alongside these new additions, Streamlight® offers a comprehensive selection of fire lighting tools designed for hazardous environments. In areas where flammable gases, vapours or dust may be present, safety-rated lighting is essential. Streamlight® ATEX and HAZ-LO® products are designed for defined hazardous location use, helping fire and rescue professionals select equipment suited to the risks they face.

For turnout gear and right-angle lighting, the Survivor® X ATEX and Survivor® Pivot ATEX are core firefighter lights designed to clip directly to gear, providing hands[1]free illumination in smoke-filled or confined environments.

The Survivor® X ATEX is Zone 0 and Zone 20 rated, while the Survivor® Pivot ATEX provides a versatile right-angle light with a pivoting head, allowing users to direct light where needed during operations. Both are available as Alkaline or Rechargeable systems.

For hazardous location scene lighting and lantern use, the Vulcan® 180 HAZ-LO® ATEX and Vulcan® LED ATEX provide portable, rechargeable lighting options. The Vulcan® 180 HAZ-LO® ATEX features an articulating head that allows the beam to be aimed where required, while the flat base allows the light to stand on its own for scene lighting.

The Vulcan® LED ATEX offers a lightweight lantern option with a tight beam suited to firefighting applications.

Compact handheld and inspection lighting also plays an important role in hazardous environments. The Dualie® 3AA ATEX provides both forward-facing and downward-facing beams, with Spot, Flood, and Spot and Flood modes for inspection and area lighting.

The 2AA ProPolymer® HAZ-LO® ATEX flashlight adds a lightweight, waterproof, intrinsically safe option for inspections, equipment checks and general navigation in hazardous locations.

For hands-free use, the Enduro® Pro HAZ-LO® ATEX headlamp supports firefighters during technical work, rescue operations and equipment handling. With spot/flood combo, spot and flood modes, it allows users to maintain visibility while keeping both hands free.

Fireground lighting tools for search, rescue and incident response

Not every fireground task takes place in a hazardous atmosphere, and Streamlight® also offers a broad selection of non-safety rated lighting tools for general firefighting, rescue and outdoor operations.

The Portable Scene Light and Portable Scene Light II, predecessors to the new Portable Scene Light III, support rapid deployment at incident scenes, helping crews illuminate wide working areas, staging zones, road traffic collisions and outdoor operations. Portable scene lighting is essential for reducing trip hazards, improving coordination and establishing safe work areas during extended incidents.

For long-range search and assessment, the Waypoint® 400 offers powerful directional lighting. Its portability and long run time make it well suited to searching, scanning and identifying hazards at distance, particularly during night operations or low-light outdoor incidents.

Helmet-mounted and hands-free lighting also remains important during close-range tasks. The Vantage® provides compact, helmet-mounted illumination for firefighting and  industrial use, delivering a focused beam designed to cut through smoke and haze while supporting visibility and awareness in demanding, low-light environments.

Together, these products demonstrate how fireground lighting is not about relying on one device, but about building a layered

approach. Scene lights provide wide-area visibility, lanterns and right-angle lights support movement and task work, headlamps and helmet lights keep hands free, and handheld spotlights provide reach for search and assessment.

Visit Streamlight® at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

INTERSCHUTZ will provide an opportunity for professionals to see the latest technologies, equipment and solutions shaping the future of emergency response.

Streamlight® will be exhibiting at Stand H37, Hall 27, where visitors will be able to explore the company’s latest product launches, including the Portable Scene Light III and LiteBox® 1Million®, alongside its wider fire lighting offering. The stand will provide visitors the opportunity to see how Streamlight® products support real-world fire and rescue operations. Visitors can also expect added activity on the stand, including a social media competition to win a Streamlight® product. For fire and rescue professionals attending, the show provides the ideal opportunity to meet the team, see the latest products and explore lighting solutions designed for the demands of modern emergency

Petrel supplies hazardous-area lighting for L’Oréal Auckland dangerous goods facility

by Featured NewsLightingProjects

Petrel case study on L’Oréal’s Auckland dangerous goods store

Auckland’s new L’Oréal distribution centre includes a Dangerous Goods Store designed for a Zone 2 hazardous environment and completed in November 2025.

Petrel has published a case study outlining the lighting solution delivered for the facility through Electrical Consulting Services working with Techlight.

The project team included developer James Kirkpatrick Group and architect Gravitas Consulting.

Waide Commercial Construction served as the builder and Electrical Consulting Services acted as electrical and lighting consultant.

Electrical Consulting Services selected Petrel to provide the hazardous-area lighting for the Zone 2 environment.

Zone 2 lighting and emergency provision

The Dangerous Goods Store is classified as Zone 2, defined as an environment where explosive gas atmospheres are not expected during normal operation and, if present, exist only for a short period.

A total of 73 Petrel ALED4/G/Z2/156E luminaires were installed as high-bay fittings to illuminate aisles and open warehouse areas.

These luminaires are designed for hazardous locations and provide ingress protection and compliance for Zone 2 applications.

Emergency lighting within the facility includes 12 Petrel 9LED5700/EM units installed across aisles and open areas.

Stuart Head, Technical and Certification Manager at Petrel, said: “Lighting is central to Green Star performance, influencing energy use, operational carbon and overall environmental quality.

“By combining high-performance LEDs with precise optical control, the L’Oréal Dangerous Goods Store achieves lower emissions, reduced energy demand and safer working conditions.

“Petrel is proud to have supported the delivery of this award-winning outcome.”

Green Star rating and project collaboration

The distribution centre has achieved New Zealand’s first 6-Star Green Star Design Certified rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council.

The rating recognises the facility’s sustainable design approach across the wider project.

The lighting design formed part of the overall facility specification, with coordination between the project team and delivery partners during development.

Pierre Abrahamse, National Sales Manager at Techlight, said: “The L’Oréal Dangerous Goods Store project sets a new benchmark, demonstrating how specialist lighting capability can drive both operational excellence and environmental leadership.

“Credit goes to the team at Petrel for their skill, commitment and genuine passion for the sector.”

The Auckland facility brings together hazardous-area lighting and energy-focused building design within the same distribution centre.

Harmony Fire joins four-year NHC Procurement Active Fire Framework arrangement

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Harmony Fire appointment to active fire framework

Harmony Fire has been appointed to the £100 million NHC Procurement Active Fire Framework under a four-year deal.

The firm was appointed to Lot 1 – Fire Products Supply and Installation, Lot 2 – Consultancy and Lot 3 – Servicing.

Lots awarded and scope of services

The deal covers consultancy, supply and installation, servicing and fully managed services.

Harmony Fire was selected to deliver consultancy services alongside the design and installation of fire detection, smoke control, sprinkler systems and emergency lighting.

Within Lot 3, it was appointed for sprinkler, misting and emergency lighting maintenance, plus fire servicing and maintenance and minor and remedial works.

Lee Goodenough, Director at Harmony Fire, said: “Partnering frameworks continue to provide public sector organisations with a highly efficient and fast-tracked pathway to procuring essential life safety works.

“Our appointment to the NHC Procurement Active Fire Framework demonstrates our national capability as a full service life safety specialist, positioning Harmony Fire at the forefront of fire safety consultancy, design and delivery and maintenance solutions.”

Framework access and other partnerships

NHC Procurement has over 500 member organisations, including organisations that manage social housing tenancies, NHS Trusts, education institutions, other public sector bodies and charities.

The Active Fire Framework is intended to help member organisations engage and procure life safety projects with sector specialists that have met quality assurance and competence standards.

Harmony Fire said the appointment follows recent frameworks with Fusion 21 and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC), as well as its reappointment to the CHIC Fire & Building Safety Framework and a place on the NHS Shared Business Services framework.

Harmony Fire also listed Guinness Partnership, Notting Hill Genesis, Places For People and Hyde as framework partners.

Olympia Electronics outlines Intersec Dubai 2026 activity and focus

by Featured NewsFire DetectionLightingMENA - Featured News

Olympia Electronics at Intersec Dubai 2026

Olympia Electronics took part in Intersec Dubai 2026, presenting its fire detection and emergency lighting systems to an international audience.

The company said it engaged with partners, consultants and industry professionals from across the Middle East, Africa and Asia during the exhibition.

Its presence at the event included collaboration with its local market partner, Scientechnic, reflecting an approach centred on regional partnerships and market-specific delivery.

Systems and applications presented

Visitors to the Olympia Electronics stand were shown certified systems intended for use in modern buildings and critical infrastructure projects.

The company said the systems on display were designed to meet regulatory requirements while supporting straightforward installation and ongoing operation.

Addressable fire detection solutions and emergency lighting systems attracted interest, with a focus on safety, reliability and long-term operational efficiency.

Regional support and market approach

Olympia Electronics said its work with Scientechnic during Intersec Dubai supported local technical expertise and region-specific solutions.

The collaboration was presented as a way to apply international standards within local regulatory and operational contexts.

Olympia Electronics said it continues to focus on international markets through long-term partnerships and the supply of dependable safety systems.

Olympia Electronics commentary links Switzerland nightclub incident to safety systems gaps

by Featured NewsFire DetectionIncidentsLighting

Olympia Electronics publishes safety systems commentary

Olympia Electronics has published commentary on the role of safety systems following media reports about a nightclub fire at Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.

The company positioned the incident as part of a wider pattern of fires in public assembly venues linked to pyrotechnics used in enclosed spaces.

Olympia Electronics referenced the 2003 fire at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island, US and the 2015 Colectiv club fire in Bucharest, Romania as comparable incidents.

It said these events shared common factors, including a lack of adequate fire detection and fire protection systems.

Media reports cited in the response

Olympia Electronics said published reports about the Crans-Montana incident described shortcomings in safety inspections, a lack of functional fire detection, inadequate emergency lighting and insufficient marking of emergency exits.

It said those reports claimed the venue had gone five years without a fire safety inspection.

The company also stated that published reporting described an absence of fire detection or suppression systems.

Olympia Electronics said those same reports claimed both emergency exits were blocked by the fire.

Detection and warning time during evacuations

Olympia Electronics said fire detection technology should be treated as a measure that enables the earliest possible identification of a developing incident in public assembly settings.

It described early detection as a way to increase the time available for reaction, evacuation and rescue.

Olympia Electronics said videos circulating from the scene showed people filming the outbreak without recognising the severity of the situation.

The company argued that, without an audible warning from a fire alarm siren, pre-evacuation time can increase because occupants do not receive a clear signal to begin moving toward exits.

Emergency lighting in low visibility conditions

Olympia Electronics said soundproofing materials on ceilings can increase risk because some materials are highly flammable, can burn rapidly and can produce dense toxic gases during combustion.

It said adverse conditions can develop in narrow, complex or underground spaces, particularly where smoke reduces visibility and occupants are unfamiliar with the layout.

Olympia Electronics pointed to emergency escape route lighting and exit signage as systems intended to support evacuation where visibility is degraded.

The company said certified emergency luminaires should be treated as complete systems with defined specifications for autonomy, reliability and durability.

Safety culture and inspection focus

Olympia Electronics said legislative compliance alone does not deliver effective safety outcomes without continuous inspections, appropriate design and reliable equipment.

It said responsibility sits across venue owners, designers, installers, technical companies and public authorities.

Olympia Electronics added that it has developed and manufactured fire detection and emergency lighting solutions in Greece since 1979.

Auro by Harmony launches Auro Lume emergency lighting platform for UK landlords

by Featured NewsLightingProducts

Auro by Harmony launches Auro Lume emergency lighting

Auro by Harmony has launched Auro Lume, an Internet of Things (IoT) self-testing emergency lighting system for landlords that aligns with the updated BS 5266-1:2025 standard in the UK.

The company described Auro Lume as a plug and play range of luminaires that removes the need for manual emergency lighting inspections.

According to Auro by Harmony, the system provides 24/7 auditable golden thread compliance data on operational readiness from first installation.

The launch follows extensive testing in housing and wider public sector environments, the firm said.

Auro Lume is intended to support life-safety resilience and provide regulatory assurance for asset owners responsible for residential and public buildings.

The system is positioned as an alternative to retrofit self-testing modules that can create compatibility questions and affect existing warranties.

Auro by Harmony said Auro Lume installs in the same way as a standard fitting and self-validates from the first day of operation.

New emergency lighting system automates testing

Auro by Harmony stated that Auro Lume connects to a secure Auro central compliance portal via IoT infrastructure.

Through this portal, landlords and facilities management teams can schedule emergency lighting tests across their property portfolios.

Testing can be automated floor by floor or according to other patterns that match the layout and usage of individual buildings.

The dashboard is described as highly configurable to reflect different asset management requirements.

Active system monitoring tracks the operational condition of luminaires and flags issues in real time for follow-up.

Annual power down inspections no longer require direct observation on site, the company said.

Sensors within Auro Lume fittings measure power supply, light levels and battery performance and send data back to the portal.

These readings form part of the recorded golden thread of information on system status and testing history.

Predictive maintenance and reduced site visits

According to Auro by Harmony, Auro Lume runs continuous checks on both emergency lighting function and wider asset condition.

The system gathers predictive maintenance data on light output and battery charging status.

This data is intended to help landlords and facilities teams identify performance changes and plan interventions before failures occur.

The company said the move to automated self-testing removes the requirement for annual manual emergency light tests.

This change is described as a cost and resource saving for landlords managing large property portfolios.

Auro by Harmony estimates that automating this single aspect of testing could reduce engineer site visits by up to 85%.

The firm added that fewer site visits can also cut associated indirect costs such as travel time.

Auro Lume is presented as contributing to sustainability efficiencies alongside compliance and maintenance outcomes.

Auro connected life-safety range expands

Auro Lume is the latest connected life-safety product in the Auro by Harmony range.

Earlier in the year, the company unveiled Auro Door, which it describes as the world’s first fully integrated and certified IoT fire door.

Auro by Harmony is also preparing to introduce Auro Myco, a connected solution to monitor damp, mould and environmental conditions within homes.

These devices form what the company calls a growing universe of smart, connected life-safety systems across the built environment.

The firm said all three devices are conceived, designed and built in the UK by its fire safety specialists.

Ged Moore, Managing Director at Auro by Harmony, said: “The constantly evolving life-safety regulatory regime demands more of landlords than ever before to further reduce risk to residents from avoidable incidents.

“A central theme of these reforms is the requirement for golden thread compliance data to provide assurance for residents, landlords and the regulator that there is constant and pro-active vigilance and action around life-safety risk.

“Auro Lume is the latest in an expanding universe of IoT connected devices developed by our in-house research and development teams to address critical life-safety challenges.

“We have an uncompromising approach to developing best of breed solutions, underpinned by real-time safety assurance that protects residents and landlords from risk.”

How automated compliance data can be used in practice

Auro Lume’s focus on automated self-testing and golden thread records is directly relevant to landlords and facility managers responsible for housing and public sector buildings.

By creating a continuous audit trail on emergency lighting status and test outcomes, the system provides evidence that can be used to demonstrate alignment with BS 5266-1:2025.

The ability to configure test schedules by floor or other groupings may support building services engineers and fire safety officers who need to coordinate checks around occupation patterns.

For system installers, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors, the plug and play design and absence of additional cabling requirements may affect installation planning and labour estimates.

Predictive maintenance data on light levels and battery charging status can inform planned maintenance regimes for facility managers and maintenance teams.

The estimate that engineer site visits could be reduced by up to 85% may influence how organisations structure call-out arrangements and internal inspection workloads.

Integration with Auro Door and the forthcoming Auro Myco product means specifiers and consultants can view emergency lighting, fire doors and environmental monitoring within a single connected life-safety approach.

Visibility and utility beyond lumens: How Streamlight tools change frontline conditions

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentLighting

Donato Sasso, Director International Business Development at Streamlight, explains why beam pattern, colour rendering and additional features matter more than ever

For decades, Streamlight has built its reputation on producing lighting solutions trusted by professionals who work in the most demanding environments.

While consumer markets often focus on sheer brightness, fire and rescue professionals require much more than raw output.

Reliability, accuracy, and safety are non-negotiable features when lives are at stake.

To explore how innovations in beam pattern, colour rendering, certification, and power flexibility are reshaping lighting technology for emergency services, International Fire and Safety Journal sat down with Donato Sasso of Streamlight.

In this wide-ranging discussion, he explains why effective visibility depends on more than lumens, and how future developments will continue to support firefighters, rescue workers, and inspectors in the most challenging conditions.

Color-Rite® technology improves colour rendering. Why is accurate colour perception so critical in fire, rescue, or inspection scenarios?

In fire, rescue, or inspection scenarios, accurate colour perception is more a matter of safety than convenience.

For a firefighter, this can mean correctly identifying the colour of a wire or fluid and reducing mistakes.

If you misjudge a wire colour in an electrical panel, for example, you can create an immediate hazard.

If you mistake one fluid for another in a spill situation, you could expose yourself and others to additional danger.

Conventional lighting can distort or wash out colours, particularly in smoke-filled or poorly lit environments.

That distortion might not matter in everyday use, but for professionals, it can be the difference between a safe outcome and a life-threatening error.

Color-Rite® technology is designed to give firefighters and inspectors confidence that what they see is what is really there.

When you are under pressure, working in an unstable environment, there is no time to second-guess whether you are looking at the right thing.

Accurate colour perception allows you to make quick, informed decisions, which ultimately keeps both responders and the public safer.

How do Streamlight’s beam patterns help firefighters and rescuers handle different visibility challenges in the field?

The beam pattern determines how useful a light actually is in the field.

Wide flood beams provide broad area illumination, which is ideal for situations like lighting a smoke-filled room, searching a collapsed structure, or managing an accident scene.

These scenarios demand the ability to see as much of your surroundings as possible so you can identify hazards and locate people who may need assistance.

By contrast, high-candela spot beams are designed to cut through smoke, fog, or total darkness and provide long-range visibility.

They provide firefighters and rescuers the ability to pinpoint hazards or victims at a distance.

It might be the difference between spotting a trapped person at the far end of a corridor or identifying a risk on a roadway before you reach it.

Having access to both types of beams means that first responders can adapt to rapidly changing conditions.

A single call-out can involve moving from wide area search to focused long-range work in moments.

Streamlight designs its lights with that flexibility in mind, because in the field, it is not just about how bright a torch is, but how precisely that light is delivered for the job at hand.

Streamlight emphasises safety certifications like ATEX. How do these ratings expand usability for fire and rescue professionals?

Fire and rescue professionals often work in hazardous environments where explosive gases, vapours, or dust may be present.

In those situations, even something as simple as switching on a torch has to be safe.

That is why safety certifications like ATEX are so important.

They prove that the equipment has been rigorously tested and can be relied on in explosive or high-risk atmospheres.

When you are on the ground, you do not have the time to question whether your gear is safe to use.

You need confidence that it will not add risk to an already dangerous environment.

ATEX certification gives that assurance.

It also means that our products are internationally recognised.

Fire and rescue services are increasingly working across borders or in cooperation with other agencies, and having equipment that meets global standards ensures compatibility and trust.

Our focus on certifications is really about enabling professionals to do their jobs without hesitation, knowing that their equipment has been designed for the environments they actually face.

Multi-Fuel technology gives flexibility with batteries. How important is this for first responders working in unpredictable conditions?

In emergencies, conditions are rarely ideal.

Power outlets may be inaccessible, rechargeable batteries may be drained, or the supply of replacements may be disrupted.

Multi-Fuel technology solves this problem by allowing our lights to run on different power sources, whether that is a rechargeable pack, standard alkaline cells, or lithium disposables.

That flexibility is a huge benefit to first responders.

You might start a shift with fully charged batteries, only to find the operation goes on far longer than expected.

Or you may be deployed in an area with no power at all due to a storm or major incident.

In those moments, the ability to switch power sources and keep working is crucial.

It is all about resilience.

Emergencies are unpredictable by nature, and your equipment needs to adapt to that reality.

With multi-fuel, responders do not have to worry about their light failing at the wrong time.

They can keep going with whatever is available, which ensures they always have the visibility they need to carry out their work.

Looking ahead, how do you see Streamlight balancing raw output with smarter features that improve safety, usability, and reliability?

As technology advances, the focus is shifting away from raw output toward smarter, more usable features.

For us, it is about finding the right balance.

High brightness will always be valuable, but the bigger picture is about improving safety, usability, and reliability.

We are looking at innovations like advanced optics that deliver light exactly where it is needed, improved colour rendering technologies that make identification safer, and adaptive power systems that provide greater resilience in the field.

These are not just enhancements for the sake of it.

They are features that make our lights more effective tools for professionals working in life-and-death situations.

The future of lighting in fire and rescue is not about chasing higher lumen numbers.

It is about delivering visibility that is reliable, precise, and purpose-built.

That is what will give first responders the confidence to act decisively in the most challenging environments.

Lighting built for real-world conditions

The conversation with Donato Sasso highlights that visibility in fire and rescue depends on much more than brightness.

Accurate colour perception, adaptive beam patterns, verified safety standards, and flexible power sources all determine whether a light performs effectively in practice.

Streamlight’s focus is on practical reliability rather than headline lumen figures, reflecting how firefighters, inspectors, and rescue teams actually work.

By designing equipment around operational reality rather than specification sheets, the company aims to give professionals tools that maintain safety and performance in every condition.

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

Streamlight expands portable scene light capability for emergency and industrial use

by Featured NewsLightingProducts

Streamlight boosts portable scene light output to 10,000 lumens

Streamlight has announced major performance upgrades to its Portable Scene Light and Portable Scene Light EXT, nearly doubling brightness from 5,300 to 10,000 lumens.

The company said the rechargeable floodlights now feature a redesigned head with 12 LEDs and wide-pattern reflectors that create a uniform flood beam with three selectable light levels.

Streamlight President Michael F. Dineen said: “The Portable Scene Light family now delivers nearly twice the brightness, making it an even more effective tool for use at first responder scenes or demanding job sites.”

“It also allows users to achieve a high output of 10,000 lumens, an extended run time of up to 12 hours, and the ability to run indefinitely on AC or DC power.”

“Their rapid deployment, telescoping poles, and stabilising legs make them indispensable for fire fighters, utility workers, and industrial professionals.”

Three brightness levels for flexible operation

According to Streamlight, the upgraded models provide three brightness modes for varied scene requirements.

On the high setting, the lights deliver 10,000 lumens, 95,000 candela, and a 616-metre beam distance with a two-hour runtime.

The medium setting produces 5,300 lumens, 49,500 candela, and a 445-metre beam distance lasting four hours.

The low setting offers 2,000 lumens, 22,450 candela, and a 300-metre beam distance with a 12-hour runtime, supporting extended operations in the field.

Both units deploy in less than 30 seconds and feature a telescoping pole with a rotating head for elevated lighting.

Extended reach and rugged construction

The Portable Scene Light extends to 182.88cm, while the Portable Scene Light EXT reaches 213.36cm, offering greater elevation and reduced glare.

Streamlight said onboard stabilising legs maintain balance on uneven terrain and in high winds, improving usability for outdoor and emergency operations.

Both models operate using a rechargeable 12V sealed lead acid battery that is maintenance-free and rechargeable up to 500 times.

For longer use, the units can operate continuously when connected to an AC or DC power source.

Designed for extreme environments

The manufacturer confirmed that both lights are IP67-rated for dust-tight and waterproof performance, allowing submersion in up to one metre of water for 30 minutes.

Each model is housed in high-impact thermoplastic for improved resistance to harsh conditions and consistent stability in high winds.

The Portable Scene Light measures 57.15cm long and 16.51cm wide, weighing 11.7kg, while the Portable Scene Light EXT weighs 11.9kg.

Both designs collapse for compact storage and easy transport between sites.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The enhanced brightness and runtime of Streamlight’s Portable Scene Light range provide practical advantages for fire and rescue services that rely on durable, rapid-deploy lighting during large-scale incidents and confined-space operations.

The ability to run indefinitely on AC or DC power offers flexibility for long-duration responses, particularly in emergency or industrial environments where access to power may vary.

The IP67 rating and stability features make the lights suitable for outdoor firefighting, utility repair, and disaster recovery scenarios, where dust, water, and uneven ground are common.

Procurement officers and equipment specifiers in emergency services and industrial safety sectors may find the upgrades relevant when evaluating portable lighting solutions that balance performance, resilience and portability.

New multi-fuel emergency lighting system introduced by Streamlight

by Featured NewsLightingLighting

Streamlight introduces Sidewinder Compact III for emergency lighting use

Streamlight has launched the Sidewinder Compact III, a multi-fuel flashlight designed for diverse emergency and field applications.

The company said the model provides multiple LED colour options, a 185-degree tilting head, and compatibility with helmets and gear mounts.

It explained that the light is built to deliver high performance in a compact, rugged housing suitable for operational and maintenance environments.

Michael F. Dineen, President of Streamlight, said: “We engineered this light with versatility at its core.

“It offers a powerful combination of compact design, high performance, and rugged reliability.

“Whether it’s mounted on a helmet, clipped to a vest, or used handheld, the Sidewinder Compact III is ready to perform.”

Multiple LED options for specialised tasks

According to the company, the Sidewinder Compact III is available in user-configurable versions that allow users to select two of three colour LEDs – red, green or blue – in addition to standard white and infrared (IR) outputs.

The military version includes white, red, blue and IR LEDs, while the aviation version contains white, green, red and IR LEDs.

Each LED operates at several brightness levels and includes a strobe mode for visibility or signalling.

The light can be powered by either one AA alkaline or one 3-volt CR123A lithium battery, supporting flexible energy use across different field conditions.

Compact design with extended runtime and durability

Streamlight stated that the white LED provides up to 275 lumens and 3,200 candela on High with a beam distance of 113 metres.

Run time exceeds 70 hours on Low when using an AA battery and over 100 hours with a CR123A battery.

The colour and IR LEDs also offer long run times designed for night vision protection and targeted visibility.

The flashlight includes a compound On-Off mode selector switch that separates On-Off, dimming, strobe and LED-selection functions.

A rotary selector knob features a tactile IR indicator and a pull-to-turn locking mechanism to prevent accidental mode changes.

The Sidewinder Compact III uses an unbreakable polycarbonate lens with a scratch-resistant coating for improved durability.

Mounting compatibility and environmental protection

The company said the light includes a durable belt and gear clip with integrated helmet mounting features, fitting existing Sidewinder mount adapters.

A cord attachment hole supports loads up to 11 kilograms.

Constructed from high-impact nylon, the Sidewinder Compact III is impact tested to three metres and waterproof to one metre for 30 minutes under IPX7 standards.

It measures 7.9 centimetres in length and weighs 85 grams with a AA battery or 77 grams when using a CR123A lithium battery.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The Sidewinder Compact III’s adaptable LED configuration and multi-fuel compatibility may be relevant for incident response teams, emergency service technicians and maintenance personnel who require reliable lighting in demanding environments.

Its 185-degree tilting head, helmet mount compatibility and extended runtime could support fire and rescue crews during low-visibility operations or post-incident inspections.

For aviation, military and tactical applications, its colour and IR LED options offer task-specific illumination and night vision protection.

Procurement officers and equipment specifiers in emergency services may find its modular design and rugged construction suitable for integrating into standard issue gear or specialised kits.