Euralarm has announced it will host a webinar on 30 September about the use of multi-sensor fire detectors to reduce false alarms.
Webinar seeks to explain why EV parking garages pose unique fire safety challenges
Euralarm to hold webinar on EV fire safety
Euralarm has announced a webinar on fire safety in electric vehicle parking garages to take place on 14 October.
According to Euralarm, the session will review fire risks linked to EVs, the differences between electric and combustion vehicles, and measures that can help mitigate incidents in enclosed parking environments.
The organisation explained that electric vehicle design creates barriers to delivering extinguishing agents to battery cells, making thermal runaway events difficult to contain once started.
It stated that the session will be led by Gerd Hülsen, Vice Chair of the Euralarm Extinguishing Section, and will focus on practical steps to address identified challenges.
The group added that the event will be relevant to both technical specialists and decision makers at local, national and European levels.
Focus on thermal battery risks
Euralarm reported that thermal runaway inside traction batteries is one of the most difficult aspects of EV fire safety.
It explained that while EV battery enclosures protect against water spray, weather and impacts during normal use, these same protections create obstacles to applying extinguishing media during a fire.
The organisation advised that once cells enter runaway, it is extremely challenging to stop the process or prevent propagation between cells.
It added that this creates risks that differ from those typically encountered in internal combustion engine vehicles.
The body confirmed that these topics will form part of the October session.
Comparing EVs and combustion vehicles
Euralarm outlined that the webinar will review differences in fire behaviour between EVs and conventional combustion engine cars.
It said that combustion vehicles present known risks based on liquid fuel ignition, whereas EVs involve battery-specific dynamics that require different strategies.
The organisation noted that the event will provide context on how both vehicle types can behave during a fire in parking garages.
It added that the comparison aims to clarify where additional measures may be necessary in EV contexts.
The group confirmed that safety measures for both categories will be considered.
Target audience for the session
Euralarm explained that the webinar is intended for a wide audience of stakeholders.
It reported that fire safety professionals, parking facility operators, and facility managers are among the key groups expected to benefit.
It added that policymakers and regulators at municipal, national and EU levels may also find the information relevant.
The organisation stated that technology specialists, system integrators and installers will also be addressed.
The body noted that the session is positioned to provide factual information for varied professional needs.
Presentation and content
Euralarm confirmed that the webinar will be presented by Gerd Hülsen.
It said Hülsen will outline factual information on fire risks of EVs in parking facilities in comparison with other vehicles.
The organisation explained that the session will guide participants through available solutions and mitigation measures.
It added that the agenda includes fire behaviour discussions and safety measures relevant to both electric and combustion vehicle categories.
The body indicated that the information will be structured to support technical understanding and operational decision making.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
Fire safety professionals will receive technical insights on challenges specific to EV incidents in enclosed parking structures.
The session will provide comparative data on electric and combustion vehicle fire behaviours.
It will also set out mitigation measures that can be applied in operational and regulatory contexts.
Professionals may find the information relevant for designing, managing, or regulating parking facilities with growing EV use.
Fire safety webinar to examine EV parking garage risks: Summary
Euralarm will hold a webinar on fire safety in electric vehicle parking garages on 14 October.
The webinar will focus on fire risks linked to EV traction batteries.
Euralarm explained that battery design makes extinguishment during thermal runaway difficult.
The group added that the webinar will compare EV and combustion vehicle fire risks.
It confirmed that solutions and mitigation measures will be discussed.
The session will be presented by Gerd Hülsen, Vice Chair of the Euralarm Extinguishing Section.
It is intended for fire safety professionals, parking facility operators, facility managers, policymakers, and system integrators.
The organisation reported that the content will provide factual information for operational and regulatory use.
The group advised that the webinar will take place online.
It added that participants will receive structured technical guidance.
Euralarm supports European Commission toolbox for safe e-commerce
EU safety standards under pressure from online imports
Euralarm has endorsed the European Commission’s proposed Communication on e-commerce, which introduces a technical framework to tackle risks related to online imports, safety compliance and consumer protection.
According to Euralarm, this toolbox is a necessary step toward managing unsafe imports and maintaining a fair competitive environment for compliant European businesses.
The industry body stated that the expansion of global e-commerce has increased the presence of low-cost, non-compliant goods in Europe.
It said these products often do not meet required safety or cybersecurity standards, placing both consumers and the integrity of the market at risk.
Euralarm supports stronger EU enforcement mechanisms and sees the Commission’s proposal as a move aligned with its mission to protect lives, businesses and infrastructure.
Fair competition and consumer protection at the core of EU plan
Euralarm reported that unfair market practices from non-compliant imports are harming compliant businesses and weakening consumer safety protections across the EU.
The association emphasised that regulations supporting fair competition are necessary to maintain the trust of citizens in fire safety and security systems.
It added that member organisations are aligned with European priorities on data protection and digital transformation, and are committed to upholding EU values of trust and safety.
The organisation said that regulations help ensure that innovation and affordability do not come at the cost of basic safety.
According to Euralarm, a fair market depends on clear rules that are consistently enforced, especially in industries tied directly to public safety.
European Commission urged to reinforce market surveillance
Euralarm has welcomed the proposed expansion of EU market surveillance under the new e-commerce framework.
It specifically highlighted the importance of enforcing regulations such as the Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, Cyber Resilience Act and General Product Safety Regulation.
The organisation said that enhancing these laws is critical to ensuring all products sold within the EU, including those from online platforms, meet minimum safety and cybersecurity standards.
It added that more robust enforcement will help regulators stop non-compliant products from entering the market, regardless of the sales channel.
Euralarm said that companies already complying with European rules should not be disadvantaged by others who do not meet the same obligations.
Innovation and investment depend on strong compliance
Euralarm stated that maintaining strong enforcement across the single market is not only about consumer safety but also about protecting business investment.
The association said that European companies depend on the consistent application of standards to continue innovating and growing.
It explained that without these protections, investments in safe and certified technologies are undermined by the entry of cheaper, non-compliant imports.
The organisation added that investor confidence, research and development, and public trust all depend on equal application of rules across the board.
According to Euralarm, failure to maintain compliance will weaken the EU’s internal market and damage the reputation of European products internationally.
Euralarm calls for action from EU institutions
Euralarm has called on lawmakers, regulators and other stakeholders to act in unison in enforcing the measures outlined in the Commission’s Communication.
It said that a coordinated and strict enforcement strategy will help safeguard the digital and physical safety of EU citizens.
The association confirmed it is committed to supporting EU institutions in shaping policies that reinforce the rules-based order of the European single market.
It said this collaboration should also extend to private industry and regulatory partners to ensure shared goals are met.
Euralarm concluded that ensuring safe e-commerce is a joint responsibility and that strong rules will benefit both consumers and businesses.
Euralarm supports European Commission toolbox for safe e-commerce: Summary
Euralarm has endorsed the European Commission’s new Communication on e-commerce.
The proposal outlines a technical framework to reduce the risks of unsafe and non-compliant imports.
Euralarm said it supports regulations that help enforce fair competition and protect consumers.
The organisation identified low-cost imports as a growing concern in the fire safety and security sectors.
It welcomed the planned strengthening of market surveillance systems across the EU.
It also backed enforcement of key legislation including the DSA, DMA, CRA and General Product Safety Regulation.
Euralarm said the proposed changes would help maintain trust in the internal market.
It added that a level playing field is essential for compliant companies to compete fairly.
The association also highlighted the link between strong compliance and European innovation.
Euralarm called on EU policymakers and institutions to prioritise enforcement and cooperation.
APSEI webinar to cover fire protection for lithium-ion batteries in indoor car parks
Fire protection risks from lithium-ion batteries to be discussed in Portugal
The Portuguese Safety Association (APSEI) will hold a public webinar on fire protection for lithium-ion batteries on 8 July 2025 at 12:00 CET.
According to Euralarm, the session will be based on its technical guidance on lithium-ion battery fire safety and electric vehicles in enclosed parking structures.
The webinar will focus on how lithium-ion battery fires can start, and how these incidents can be detected, controlled and extinguished.
Euralarm reported that the session will also examine data comparing fire risk in electric vehicles with internal combustion engine vehicles in covered car parks.
The presentation will be led by Euralarm Technical Manager Carlos Perez and delivered in English.
Technical session based on Euralarm guidance documents
Euralarm stated that the session will use two guidance documents as its foundation.
One is focused on fire protection solutions for lithium-ion batteries.
The other explores safety practices for electric vehicles parked in enclosed areas.
Euralarm said both documents aim to support fire safety engineers, facility operators and regulators in understanding how lithium-ion battery systems pose risk in confined environments.
The organisation noted that the content will include reference to known failure modes of lithium-ion cells, and how best practice in detection and suppression has developed in response.
It added that attendees will be walked through existing solutions already in use across different EU member states.
EV fire risks in covered car parks
Euralarm explained that the webinar will include an overview of comparative fire risks between electric and conventional vehicles in indoor parking.
It stated that the focus will be on real-world data and applied analysis.
The organisation said the aim is to dispel misconceptions about EV fires, while also reinforcing the need for appropriate detection and suppression strategies tailored to battery-specific hazards.
It added that the session will identify scenarios where passive fire protection alone is not sufficient, and discuss the added value of integrated fire protection systems.
According to Euralarm, this will include ventilation considerations, fire resistance of surrounding materials, and access for emergency responders.
Presentation to be led by Carlos Perez
Euralarm confirmed that the speaker will be Carlos Perez, its Technical Manager since May 2024.
Perez is based in Barcelona and holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia.
He began his career in the design, certification and testing of gaseous extinguishing systems, later expanding into systems for kitchen fire protection.
According to Euralarm, Perez has taught courses internationally and chairs standardisation committees in Spain linked to both ISO and CEN.
It added that Perez contributes to working groups within ISO/TC 21 and CEN/TC 191, helping to shape European standards on fire protection systems.
The organisation confirmed that Perez will deliver the 8 July session in English.
Event registration and language details
The webinar is scheduled for 8 July 2025, starting at 12:00 CET.
It will be held online and is open to the public, according to Euralarm.
Registration information is available through the APSEI website.
Euralarm stated that the session will be delivered in English to accommodate an international audience.
It added that there will be opportunities for attendees to ask questions at the end of the presentation.
The association said this format is designed to promote technical dialogue and practical understanding of the issues covered.
APSEI webinar to cover fire protection for lithium-ion batteries in indoor car parks: Summary
The Portuguese Safety Association (APSEI) will hold a webinar on fire protection for lithium-ion batteries on 8 July 2025 at 12:00 CET.
The content will be based on Euralarm guidance for lithium-ion battery safety and electric vehicle fire risk in parking structures.
Euralarm reported that the presentation will be led by Technical Manager Carlos Perez.
The session will explain how lithium-ion battery fires can be detected, controlled and extinguished.
It will also compare fire risks between electric vehicles and petrol or diesel vehicles in enclosed car parks.
The session will identify solutions currently used across Europe.
It will explore how battery hazards affect building safety strategy.
The presentation will be delivered in English.
Carlos Perez has a PhD in Chemical Engineering and experience in system certification and fire protection engineering.
He participates in ISO and CEN fire standardisation work.
The webinar will be accessible via registration through APSEI’s official site.
Euralarm updates guidance on EN 50710 for service companies
Clarification released on EN 50710 remote servicing standard
Euralarm has released an interpretation sheet aimed at helping service companies better understand and apply the EN 50710 standard.
According to Euralarm, the sheet expands on the existing 2022 guidance and provides interpretation, recommendations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
The EN 50710 standard was published in 2021 by CEN-CENELEC and outlines requirements for secure remote services in fire and security systems.
Euralarm’s Services section was involved in the standard’s development, with the goal of increasing adoption of remote servicing by providing actionable guidance.
Content and purpose of the interpretation sheet
Euralarm stated that the new interpretation sheet addresses recurring questions about the implementation of EN 50710.
The sheet consists of two sections.
The first section expands the 2022 checklist, adding interpretation and recommendations for each clause and identifying whether it concerns remote access infrastructure, fire or security systems, or organisational procedures.
The second section includes general answers to frequently asked questions not linked to specific clauses.
Target audience and intended application
Euralarm explained that the interpretation sheet is intended for service companies that aim to provide remote services in accordance with EN 50710.
These companies are required to implement specific organisational processes alongside technical solutions for remote connectivity.
The new resource is designed to support this requirement by clarifying how to interpret and apply the relevant clauses.
Euralarm added that the interpretation sheet can help service companies assess their preparedness for compliant service delivery.
Background on EN 50710 and earlier guidance
Euralarm reported that EN 50710 was developed by the joint technical committee CEN/CLC/JTC 4 and formally published by CEN-CENELEC in 2021.
The standard sets out conditions for secure provision of remote services related to fire and security systems.
To support implementation, Euralarm previously published a guidance document in 2022, followed by a document on cloud service contracting in early 2025.
As CEN-CENELEC does not publish interpretation sheets, Euralarm developed its own to assist its members.
Euralarm updates guidance on EN 50710 for service companies: Summary
Euralarm has released an interpretation sheet for EN 50710.
The EN 50710 standard outlines requirements for secure remote services on fire safety and security systems.
It was developed by CEN/CLC/JTC 4 and published by CEN-CENELEC in 2021.
Euralarm played a role in its development and previously published guidance on remote services in 2022.
The interpretation sheet expands that guidance with clause-by-clause recommendations.
The document contains two sections.
The first section provides detailed interpretations aligned with a checklist.
The second section answers general questions about the standard.
The target audience includes service companies aiming for EN 50710 compliance.
The sheet outlines both technical and organisational requirements for remote services.
Euralarm stated that the resource will assist in understanding and applying the standard.
Euralarm supports EU e-commerce regulation for product compliance
European focus on e-commerce regulation welcomed by Euralarm
Euralarm has responded to the European Commission’s Communication on E-Commerce, stating its support for proposals aimed at enhancing consumer safety and fair competition in online marketplaces.
The Communication, titled ‘A Comprehensive EU Toolbox for Safe and Sustainable E-commerce’, outlines technical approaches to address concerns over product safety, regulatory compliance and market fairness.
According to Euralarm, the rapid growth of e-commerce in Europe has led to the increased availability of low-cost imports that fail to meet essential safety and security requirements.
Fire and security industry highlights risks from unsafe imports
Euralarm reported that a rising number of products entering the European market through online platforms are non-compliant with EU safety, cybersecurity and quality standards.
It stated that these products pose risks to both consumers and businesses by undermining the integrity of the market.
Euralarm added that its members, who operate in the fire safety and security sector, support stronger enforcement mechanisms to prevent non-compliant products from reaching consumers.
It said this approach would protect safety standards and ensure a level playing field for businesses meeting regulatory obligations.
Alignment with EU digital and safety legislation
Euralarm said the proposals support the application of several EU laws, including the Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, Cyber Resilience Act and General Product Safety Regulation.
The organisation explained that improving enforcement and surveillance in e-commerce is key to applying these regulations across online and offline marketplaces.
It stated that aligning policy with enforcement efforts will help maintain consumer trust and support the development of compliant safety and security solutions.
Industry support for fair and transparent regulation
Euralarm said it supports measures that ensure compliant European businesses are not disadvantaged by competitors distributing low-quality or unsafe products.
It said effective surveillance of e-commerce platforms and proper enforcement will enable innovation to continue within the EU’s legal framework.
The organisation added that fire safety and security providers are committed to maintaining standards that protect public safety.
Euralarm concluded by encouraging policymakers to strengthen compliance efforts and work with industry groups to achieve these goals.
Euralarm supports EU e-commerce regulation for product compliance: Summary
Euralarm has responded to the European Commission’s Communication on E-Commerce.
The organisation said it supports the technical approach proposed to ensure fair competition and consumer safety.
Euralarm reported that low-cost, non-compliant imports pose safety and cybersecurity risks.
It said these risks are increasing due to the growth of online marketplaces.
The organisation called for stricter enforcement of EU regulations, including the DSA, DMA, CRA and GPSR.
It stated that market surveillance must be strengthened to prevent unsafe products from reaching European consumers.
Euralarm said regulatory enforcement is needed to protect businesses that comply with EU standards.
It explained that stronger rules will help maintain trust in safety and security technologies.
The organisation expressed support for the European Commission’s efforts to address these challenges.
It urged collaboration between industry and regulators to advance compliance and protect public safety.
EU Construction Products Regulation 2024/3110: What it means for CE marking and fire safety
EU CPR 2024/3110 enters into force with delayed implementation
Euralarm has reported that the revised EU Construction Products Regulation (EU CPR 2024/3110) officially came into effect on 7 January 2025.
Despite its adoption, the changes do not yet affect CE marking or EU declarations of conformity for manufacturers, including those in the fire safety sector.
Until new harmonised technical specifications are developed and adopted, manufacturers will continue to comply with the existing harmonised standards.
This status quo is expected to continue for several years.
According to Euralarm, its members will play an active role in shaping the forthcoming standardisation request that will inform future updates.
Changes to product compliance and environmental reporting requirements
The updated EU CPR introduces future obligations aimed at aligning construction product regulations with broader environmental and digital goals.
These include the introduction of a Digital Product Passport and mandatory Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
EPDs will measure the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle, from production to raw material recovery.
A combined Declaration of Performance and Conformity will also be introduced, integrating compliance, safety and environmental criteria into a single document.
Euralarm stated that these changes aim to improve transparency and traceability in the construction product supply chain.
Euralarm involvement in the transition period
Euralarm confirmed that it remains committed to supporting its members throughout the transition.
The organisation said its members will contribute to the development of new harmonised standards and the implementation of the revised regulation.
Euralarm stated: “Until the new harmonized technical specifications based on the new standardization request are developed and adopted, the current harmonized standards continue to apply.”
The organisation also noted that while the regulation is now in force, no immediate compliance changes are required by manufacturers.
Background on Euralarm and its membership
Euralarm represents national associations and companies across Europe involved in fire and security systems.
The organisation was founded in 1970 and represents over 5,000 companies with a combined market value of 67 billion euros.
Its members provide systems and services for fire detection and extinguishing, intrusion detection, access control, video monitoring, alarm transmission and alarm receiving.
Euralarm engages with policymakers and standards bodies to ensure regulatory frameworks support safety, innovation and compliance.
EU Construction Products Regulation 2024/3110: Summary
The revised EU Construction Products Regulation (EU CPR 2024/3110) came into force on 7 January 2025.
Euralarm reported that the update does not affect CE marking or EU declarations of conformity in the short term.
Existing harmonised standards remain valid until new specifications are adopted based on a future standardisation request.
The revised CPR introduces future changes such as a Digital Product Passport, mandatory Environmental Product Declarations and a combined Declaration of Performance and Conformity.
These changes are intended to address climate neutrality and digitalisation goals.
Euralarm stated that its members will remain involved in developing and implementing these new frameworks.
The organisation said it is committed to supporting industry through the regulatory transition.
Euralarm represents over 5,000 com
Fire protection guidance for data centres now available in multiple languages
Euralarm expands data centre fire safety guidance
Euralarm has released Dutch, German, and Spanish versions of its guidance document on fire protection systems for data centres.
The document outlines key considerations for selecting fire protection systems and details the available options for safeguarding data centres.
Fire safety considerations for data centres
Data centres house expensive equipment and critical data, making fire protection a priority.
The Euralarm guidance explains how protection objectives can vary depending on the client and region.
It provides an overview of different fire suppression technologies, including sprinklers, water mist, gaseous suppression, oxygen reduction, and condensed aerosols, along with their suitability for different fire scenarios.
Target audience for the guidance
The document is designed for data centre designers, operators, and fire protection professionals.
It assumes that readers understand the importance of fire safety and seek clarity on the implications of choosing one fire suppression method over another.
It includes insights on standards, regulations, and the impact of fire protection strategies on business continuity.
Guidance tailored to specific applications
The document does not prescribe a one-size-fits-all approach but helps stakeholders assess different fire protection solutions based on their specific needs.
It aims to support decision-making beyond minimum legal requirements, taking into account business continuity and asset protection.
Fire protection guidance for data centres now available in multiple languages: Summary
Euralarm has published Dutch, German, and Spanish versions of its guidance document on fire protection systems for data centres.
The document explains considerations for selecting fire suppression technologies, addressing varying protection needs across different regions.
It provides information on suppression methods, including sprinklers, water mist, gaseous systems, oxygen reduction, and condensed aerosols, outlining their effectiveness at different fire stages.
Targeted at data centre designers, operators, and fire protection professionals, the guidance document helps stakeholders evaluate fire safety strategies based on their specific applications.
It also discusses the role of fire protection in business continuity planning.
Euralarm releases guidance on fire safety in EV parking garages
Overview of the new Euralarm EV parking garages fire safety guidance
Euralarm has published a new guidance document addressing fire safety concerns in parking garages that accommodate electric vehicles (EVs).
The document outlines key risks associated with EVs, such as thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, fire propagation in confined parking spaces, and the impact of increased vehicle sizes on fire spread.
It also provides an overview of mitigation strategies, including architectural adjustments, fire suppression systems, and enhanced detection methods.
The guidance compares the fire risks of EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, emphasising that modern vehicles contain higher plastic content, which can intensify fire spread.
It also highlights specific concerns related to charging stations, which pose an increased fire risk due to overheating and faulty connections.
Fire risks associated with electric vehicles in parking garages
The guidance outlines the unique fire risks of EVs compared to ICE vehicles.
One major concern is thermal runaway, where damaged or overheating lithium-ion battery cells trigger a chain reaction, leading to intense and prolonged fires.
The document notes that these fires are difficult to extinguish due to the sealed nature of EV battery packs.
Statistics referenced in the report indicate that while EV fires are less frequent than ICE vehicle fires, they present distinct challenges in confined environments such as parking garages.
The presence of charging infrastructure further complicates fire safety, as faults in cables and connectors can increase the likelihood of ignition.
Another factor highlighted is the increasing size of modern vehicles, including both EVs and ICE cars, which reduces spacing between parked vehicles.
This, combined with higher plastic content in contemporary vehicles, accelerates fire spread and increases the risk of structural damage in parking facilities.
Mitigation strategies and fire protection measures
Euralarm’s guidance outlines a range of fire protection strategies for EV parking garages.
These include:
- Architectural considerations: Adjusting parking layouts to increase vehicle spacing and designing fire-resistant enclosures for charging stations.
- Fire detection and suppression: Installing early fire detection systems, such as thermal cameras and gas sensors, alongside automated fire suppression systems like sprinklers and water mist systems.
- Charging station safety: Implementing fire-resistant enclosures for charging areas, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and requiring periodic inspections of charging cables and connectors.
- Emergency response planning: Developing protocols for fire service access, including designated firefighting zones and post-fire EV removal procedures to prevent re-ignition.
The guidance also stresses the importance of integrating multiple fire protection measures, rather than relying on a single solution, to enhance safety in EV parking facilities.
Regulatory considerations and recommendations
The guidance references international regulatory frameworks and national standards regarding EV fire safety in enclosed parking spaces.
It notes that some countries, such as Germany and France, have introduced specific safety requirements for EV charging stations in parking garages, including physical separation and enhanced ventilation systems.
Euralarm advises that fire protection strategies should be tailored to each facility’s design, taking into account national regulations, building codes, and insurance requirements.
The guidance encourages facility owners and policymakers to consider the long-term impact of EV adoption on parking infrastructure and fire safety measures.
Euralarm publishes fire safety guidance for electric vehicle parking garages: Summary
Euralarm has released a guidance document detailing fire safety considerations for electric vehicle (EV) parking garages.
The document highlights the risks associated with EV fires, particularly thermal runaway events in lithium-ion batteries, which can lead to prolonged and difficult-to-extinguish fires.
The guidance compares fire risks between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, noting that modern vehicles contain increased plastic content, which contributes to faster fire spread.
It also addresses the challenges posed by charging stations, which can be potential ignition points due to faulty equipment or overheating.
To mitigate these risks, Euralarm recommends a combination of architectural changes, enhanced fire detection and suppression systems, and stricter safety protocols for EV charging stations.
The document also references international regulations and best practices for managing EV fire risks in enclosed parking structures.
Facility owners and policymakers are encouraged to integrate multiple fire safety measures to improve overall risk management in EV parking garages.
Overview of the new Euralarm EV parking garages fire safety guidance
Euralarm has published a new guidance document addressing fire safety concerns in parking garages that accommodate electric vehicles (EVs).
The document outlines key risks associated with EVs, such as thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, fire propagation in confined parking spaces, and the impact of increased vehicle sizes on fire spread.
It also provides an overview of mitigation strategies, including architectural adjustments, fire suppression systems, and enhanced detection methods.
The guidance compares the fire risks of EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, emphasising that modern vehicles contain higher plastic content, which can intensify fire spread.
It also highlights specific concerns related to charging stations, which pose an increased fire risk due to overheating and faulty connections.
Fire risks associated with electric vehicles in parking garages
The guidance outlines the unique fire risks of EVs compared to ICE vehicles.
One major concern is thermal runaway, where damaged or overheating lithium-ion battery cells trigger a chain reaction, leading to intense and prolonged fires.
The document notes that these fires are difficult to extinguish due to the sealed nature of EV battery packs.
Statistics referenced in the report indicate that while EV fires are less frequent than ICE vehicle fires, they present distinct challenges in confined environments such as parking garages.
The presence of charging infrastructure further complicates fire safety, as faults in cables and connectors can increase the likelihood of ignition.
Another factor highlighted is the increasing size of modern vehicles, including both EVs and ICE cars, which reduces spacing between parked vehicles.
This, combined with higher plastic content in contemporary vehicles, accelerates fire spread and increases the risk of structural damage in parking facilities.
Mitigation strategies and fire protection measures
Euralarm’s guidance outlines a range of fire protection strategies for EV parking garages.
These include:
- Architectural considerations: Adjusting parking layouts to increase vehicle spacing and designing fire-resistant enclosures for charging stations.
- Fire detection and suppression: Installing early fire detection systems, such as thermal cameras and gas sensors, alongside automated fire suppression systems like sprinklers and water mist systems.
- Charging station safety: Implementing fire-resistant enclosures for charging areas, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and requiring periodic inspections of charging cables and connectors.
- Emergency response planning: Developing protocols for fire service access, including designated firefighting zones and post-fire EV removal procedures to prevent re-ignition.
The guidance also stresses the importance of integrating multiple fire protection measures, rather than relying on a single solution, to enhance safety in EV parking facilities.
Regulatory considerations and recommendations
The guidance references international regulatory frameworks and national standards regarding EV fire safety in enclosed parking spaces.
It notes that some countries, such as Germany and France, have introduced specific safety requirements for EV charging stations in parking garages, including physical separation and enhanced ventilation systems.
Euralarm advises that fire protection strategies should be tailored to each facility’s design, taking into account national regulations, building codes, and insurance requirements.
The guidance encourages facility owners and policymakers to consider the long-term impact of EV adoption on parking infrastructure and fire safety measures.
Euralarm publishes fire safety guidance for electric vehicle parking garages: Summary
Euralarm has released a guidance document detailing fire safety considerations for electric vehicle (EV) parking garages.
The document highlights the risks associated with EV fires, particularly thermal runaway events in lithium-ion batteries, which can lead to prolonged and difficult-to-extinguish fires.
The guidance compares fire risks between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, noting that modern vehicles contain increased plastic content, which contributes to faster fire spread.
It also addresses the challenges posed by charging stations, which can be potential ignition points due to faulty equipment or overheating.
To mitigate these risks, Euralarm recommends a combination of architectural changes, enhanced fire detection and suppression systems, and stricter safety protocols for EV charging stations.
The document also references international regulations and best practices for managing EV fire risks in enclosed parking structures.
Facility owners and policymakers are encouraged to integrate multiple fire safety measures to improve overall risk management in EV parking garages.
Fire safety considerations for data centres: Euralarm releases new guidance
Euralarm publishes fire protection guidance for data centres
Euralarm has released a new guidance document on fire protection for data centres, detailing factors to consider and available solutions.
The document outlines how fire protection requirements vary by client and region and offers insights to help stakeholders choose the most appropriate measures.
It provides information on different fire suppression technologies, including sprinklers, water mist, gaseous systems, oxygen reduction systems, and condensed aerosols.
The guidance is aimed at data centre designers, operators, and fire protection professionals seeking clarity on how different solutions impact fire safety.
Key considerations for fire safety in data centres
The document explains that fire protection strategies must be tailored to individual data centres due to variations in infrastructure, risk factors, and operational priorities.
It highlights that while regulatory standards provide a baseline, they may not fully address the specific needs of data centres, where high-value equipment and critical data storage require enhanced protection measures.
Euralarm’s guidance discusses how fire suppression technologies differ in their suitability depending on the stage of a fire incident.
Understanding fire suppression technologies
The guidance provides an overview of several fire suppression options and their effectiveness in different scenarios.
Sprinkler and water mist systems are discussed for their ability to control fires quickly, while gaseous systems and oxygen reduction solutions are considered for their impact on sensitive electronic equipment.
Condensed aerosol systems are also reviewed as an alternative approach.
The document aims to help professionals assess these technologies beyond regulatory compliance, considering factors such as business continuity and asset protection.
Guidance for industry professionals
The publication is designed for professionals who already understand the importance of fire protection and are evaluating the implications of different solutions.
Rather than prescribing a single approach, the guidance helps stakeholders assess which fire protection methods align with their specific data centre requirements.
It also addresses potential challenges when selecting a particular approach over another.
Copies of the guidance document can be accessed through Euralarm’s website: https://www.euralarm.org/resource/guideline-on-selection-of-fire-protection-systems-for-data-centers-pdf.html.
Fire safety considerations for data centres: Summary
Euralarm has released a guidance document outlining fire protection strategies for data centres.
The document details key considerations for fire safety and how different suppression technologies apply to various fire stages.
It explains that fire protection needs vary by client and region, and professionals must assess solutions beyond basic compliance.
It reviews technologies such as sprinklers, water mist, gaseous systems, oxygen reduction, and condensed aerosols.
The guidance is intended for data centre designers, operators, and fire protection professionals.
It does not specify a single solution but helps stakeholders determine the most suitable approach for their circumstances.
The document is available for download on Euralarm’s website.