IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference: Meet the Speakers

by AmericasBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

The IFSJ Leaders In Fire & Safety Conference promises to be a must-attend event for anyone in the Middle East fire and safety industry, and will bring together some of the most prominent figures in the industry as speakers and panellists to discuss the biggest issues facing leaders in the industry.

Among them are experts in business strategy, emerging trends, regulations, and innovation from the region. Attendees can expect to hear from an array of speakers, including industry leaders, top executives, and influencers, who will share their insights and perspectives on the latest developments and challenges in the field. The diverse range of speakers promises to make the conference an informative and engaging experience for all attendees.

IFSJ is proud to introduce the speakers and panellists who will be sharing their insights with attendees to the exclusive one-day event.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

H.E. Excellency Brigadier Expert Ali Hassan Al Mutawa, Assistant Director General of DCD for Fire and Rescue Affairs

CONFERENCE CHAIR

Terry Johnson, Technical Service Manager at ENOC and President of The Institutions of Fire Engineers GCC Branch

Terry Johnson’s career began in the UKFRS and progressed to international development with the United Nations Development Program (UNIDO) as an ‘Technical Assistant Expert’ Fire Safety Training in the Oil & Gas sector. He spent some time at the Fire Service College UK looking at international development subsequently seconded to Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) UAE.

He represented DCD on various Emergency Crisis committees and working groups as a Senior Fire, Rescue & Emergency Services Professional, disciplined for All Operational requirements, including Major Emergency Incident planning and crisis liaison. Now, Johnson is currently engaged by Emirates National Oil Company ENOC, looking at sustainable and environmental solutions to match the resilience needed for asset and response team protection for ENOC assets. 

PRESENTERS

Jason Traynor, General Manager at MSA

Jason is the General Manager of Global Fire Service Products and Integration Leader of MSA Bristol for MSA Safety. In this role, he is responsible for establishing the global vision, strategy and growth initiatives for MSA Safety’s global portfolio of Fire Service Products and provides leadership for the integration of MSA Bristol. Upon joining MSA in 2012 as the Product Group Manager for Respiratory Protection, Jason revolutionized MSA’s approach to Fire Service Marketing and was critical to the successful launch of the G1 SCBA and M1 SCBA platforms.

Sinclair Duffie, Chief Fire Officer – Nawah Energy Company

Sinclair Duffie joined the Scottish Fire Service in 1983 with Central Region Fire Brigade. In 1993, he moved into Fire Prevention as Station Officer in and remained there and promoted to Station Manager in 2004. Duffie spent the remaining nine years of service between operations, training, and community safety before retiring in early 2012 with 29 years’ service. In 2012, Duffie joined ADNOC offshore operations on Das Island as Incident Command System Coordinator responsible for major incidents response planning and development. In 2017, he joined Nawah as a Team Leader. He was promoted to his current position which he has been held since 2018.  Duffie has been active on the Middle East conference circuit. He currently lives in Al Dhannah city in Abu Dhabi.

James Clarke, Fire Officer with Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service

James Clarke is Station Commander with 24 years operational experience. He has worked in research, development and procurement within the fire service. He has been instrumental in moving one the most influential services in the UK towards best practice with regards to post fire decontamination. Clarke has previously presented at the UKs first seminar on occupational cancer in the fire service on post fire decontamination and implementing policy and procedures.

Howard Leedham MBE, Managing Director, ESID DMCC

Howard is the Managing Director of ESID DMCC, a Special Situations and Global Consultancy company based in Dubai. He has lived and worked in the Middle East for much of the past 15-years and is a licensed “Security Expert” with the Security Industry Regulatory Authority. He is a member of the Security Professionals Association, and was most recently the Industry Ambassador to Intersec 2022.

Captain Essa Ahmed Al-Mutawa, Director of the Control and Monitoring Department at DCD

PANELLISTS

David Campbell, General Manager – Dubai Civil Defence Emirates Safety Laboratory

David Campbell is General Manager for Dubai Civil Defence’s Emirates Safety Laboratory, educated in Applied Sciences – Fire Technology, Fire Engineering and Environmental Sciences – Natural Resource Management and Digital Transformations with 33 years working in the sector of which the past 13 years supporting the Middle East region.

Alexander Castellanos, Head of Fire & Life Safety – Middle East at WSP

Castellanos has close to two decades of experience in the Fire and Life Safety Engineering field. He graduated from the prestigious University of Maryland Fire Protection Engineering program from where he went on to practice in New York City, China, and London. He relocated to the UAE in early 2012 and is currently the regional Head of Fire and Life Safety for WSP in the Middle East where his focus is on client care and technical excellence of the team. Alexanders experience ranges from working with fire and egress modelling early in his career to site supervision and client, authority and stakeholder liaison in recent times. He was part of the UAE Fire Code 2018 development committee and has continued to support similar roles in developing governance for semi-governmental entities.

Sawsan Dahham, Head of Fire and Life Safety at Dar

Sawsan is a Fire and Life safety specialist and a code expert, currently assigned as the Global Head of Fire and Life Safety at Dar. She is also an Authorized NFPA instructor.  
She has acquired an extensive experience having worked on all types of major projects such as mixed-use complexes, airports, health care facilities, and prestigious urban developments located in the Arab Gulf region, the Middle East, and Africa. She is also a contributor to publications in the fire and life safety industry.

Cristina Perez Domper, Regional Manager at Intertek Building and Construction

Cristina is a civil engineer with Master’s of Science in Structural Engineering. She gained her experience in the fire industry in Spain and for the last 4 years has been in the Middle east acting as Regional Operations Manager for Intertek. She specialises in product testing and certification for building products focused passive fire protection, and actively works to increase awareness on the importance of a comprehensive approach to fire safety. 

Mark Fenton, Sales Director – EMEA & APAC at Amerex Corporation

Mark is the Sales Director for Amerex Corporation, part of McWane Group, looking after the company’s full range of fire protection products and systems across EMEA and APAC. Prior to that he spent 3 years as a business consultant working with companies in the Middle East and the UK and 20 years with Honeywell where his last role was General Manager for MEA & EEU looking after their life safety and security businesses.

Engineer Salma Humaid, Head of Engineering Section at DCD

Engineer Salma Humaid is an accomplished fire safety engineer at Dubai Civil Defense. Her work plays a critical role in ensuring buildings and structures in Dubai meet the highest fire safety standards. She has helped implement fire safety regulations and codes, delivered presentations at various conferences, and worked closely with architects, contractors, and engineers to promote fire safety education and training. Her contributions have been recognised numerous times, and she continues to make Dubai a safer place for residents through her expertise in fire safety engineering.

Dr Susan Lamont is Director, Fire Group Leader Middle East at Arup

Dr Lamont has worked in the fire protection industry for over 20 years in the UK, USA, Middle East and parts of Asia and Africa. She is a chartered engineer, a Fellow at Arup, a Fellow of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) and a board member of the Fire Protection Research foundation. She has worked though all stages of design and construction on a diverse range of projects.

Paul Pope, Group Business Development Director at Global Fire Equipment

Paul Pope is Group Business Development Director at Global Fire Equipment. Paul has been active in the fire and security industry since 1985 and has held senior management positions in some of the leading international fire and security companies. Pope has been active in the Fire Industry Association (FIA). He also is a member of the Building Fire Safety Systems Section of the NFPA in the USA.

Sajid Raza, CEO of Butler Engineering Middle East

Sajid Butler is the CEO of Butler Engineering (ME) & Butler Engineering Int’l Ltd (UK), responsible for overall operational steering of the organization in Middle East, Europe and Asia. His all-round contribution to fire consulting fraternity globally led him to be part of several UL Standards Technical Panels (UL-STP), IAS Technical Advisory Council (IAS-TAC), FCIA Standards Committee, International Firestop Council (IFC) Inspector and Special Inspection Training Committees.

Bob Rea, Director and Lead facilitator at BR Training Solutions Ltd

Bob is a recognised professional in crisis management, with over 30 years of experience of emergency management and preparation. He was awarded the Queens Fire Service Medal (QFSM) for his work leading the implementation of the UK National Urban Search and Rescue capability under the UK government’s New Dimension project. Bob established BR Training Solutions Limited to develop organisational response plans for middle eastern students in the USA.

Steven Reilly, Principal Engineer, Fire & Life Safety Lead MENA at Cundall

Steven is the Fire & Life Safety Lead for the MENA region at Cundall, with over fifteen years experience in fire & engineering consultancy. He has vast experience in Fire Safety, from carrying out Fire Risk Assessments & Audits on new and existing international developments to leading multidisciplinary teams. Zero Carbon Design 2030 has seen Cundall commit to only designing zero carbon projects by 2030.

Muzaffer Ahmed Syed, Regional Manager (Firestop) at fischer FZE

Muzaffer is the Regional Manager – FireStop for Fischer FZE. He manages the Technical and Commercial aspects of the FireStop within the Middle East and North Africa Region from the Regional HQ in Dubai, UAE. He is an Associate Member of The Institution of Fire Engineers, UK, and has been involved in the fire protection industry for over 10 years. He is involved in providing firestop solutions, testing, certification, liaising with the authorities, and providing educational seminars to consultants and contractors.

Peter Stephenson, Director, Fire Safety Division at Hydrock

As a Director (Fire Engineering) at Hydrock, Stephenson co-ordinates the companies international expansion into the Middle East and consultancy activities including developing fire strategies, fire and emergency response strategies and fire systems analysis for projects. His experiences in fire safety engineering and rail infrastructure projects includes working as a Business Development Manager at Warringtonfire, Associate Director at Buro Happold, Senior Fire Safety Engineer for Network Rail, Fire Safety Officer for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service and as a consultant in both large multi-disciplinary and small independent practices.

Joanne Taylor is Director of De-Wipe and Reach & Rescue

Jo Taylor is an experienced entrepreneur International Sales Director and Managing Director having built two businesses with in the Emergency Services Industry with unique products over the last 13 years from start-up to global success. She has a wealth of knowledge and respect in the Fire and Rescue Industry and was previously a personal assistant to CEO’s for 16 years working in the Utility and Construction industry. She was honoured in NY2020 by HMQ with an MBE for safeguarding Fire Fighters.

Peter Van Gorp, Technical Director Fire, Life Safety and Loss Prevention at HKA

Peter Van Gorp has over twenty-five years of experience working as a Fire Engineer and has spent more than fifteen years of his career working in the Middle East. Peter is highly experienced in the areas of fire, life-safety and loss prevention and has been engaged on various building-fire and life-safety projects ranging across schools, hotels, hospitals, large shopping malls, multi-occupancy high-rises and industrial developments. 

Duncan J. White, Managing Editor at International Fire and Safety Journal

Duncan has worked in the fire industry for over 35 years, having started his career as a firefighter in 1987. Following almost 30 years as an operational fire officer he has continued his involvement with the fire industry as an editor within global publishing.

Tom Wood, Regional Director, Middle East at Vortex Fire

Tom Wood is a Fire Engineering professional with over 10 years working experience, and over 6 years based in the Middle East. His work has included airports, rail, commercial offices and residential buildings, malls and warehouses. He is an experienced fire consultant with a thorough knowledge of NFPA, SBC, IBC, EN and British codes and standards. He develops practical and cost-effective fire safety strategies and alternative fire engineered solutions using relevant guidance and present these to Authorities for final approval.

Other Panellists

Also featuring on panel sessions throughout the day are:

  • Engineer Pramod Challa, Senior Engineer, Dubai Civil Defense
  • James Grew, Deputy Divisional Director at Hydrock
  • Andy Hall, Owner and General Manager of Hall Fire and Safety Consultants
  • Carlo Loveri, Business Continuity Manager at Emirates Steel
  • Sam Malins, CEO at Reacton Fire Suppression
  • Even Ottesen, International Sales Manager at DAFO Fomtec AB
  • Mrinaal Sapru, Head of Regional Sales for Dubai Civil Defence’s Emirates Safety Laboratory
  • Eiad Shami, Senior Consultant, Fire & Life Safety at WSP;
  • James Varley, Associate Director at WS Atkins
  • Steve Walker, Director of Fire Safety at Hydrock.

NAHFO Annual Conference to bring healthcare fire officers together

by EventsFeatured News

The National Association of Healthcare Fire Officers (NAHFO) will hold its Annual Conference and Exhibition at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Stratford upon Avon from Monday 5 to Wednesday 7 June 2023.

The conference aims to bring together fire professionals from across the healthcare industry for an informative and educational event focused on networking, exchanging ideas, and sharing best practices.

On the agenda

Featuring leading industry speakers on current topics of interest, attendees will have the opportunity to meet a wide range of exhibiting companies showcasing the latest equipment, services, and supplies.

Accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions, a trade evening, a social networking BBQ, and a Conference Dinner and Awards evening will also be part of the agenda. The exhibition will run alongside the event, providing a mix of learning and development with social opportunities.

With potential funding challenges faced by NHS and other healthcare delegates, NAHFO has made attendance costs reasonable with a variety of delegate and exhibitor packages available, allowing organisations to send delegates or exhibit products and services without additional expenses.

The NAHFO Annual Conference and Exhibition is designed to serve as a platform for companies and delegates alike to network, build relationships, stay informed of new developments, gain valuable insights, and participate in discussions on hot topics. Attendees will have the opportunity to educate themselves on all aspects of fire safety.

The NAHFO Annual Conference and Exhibition 2023 is an essential event for fire professionals in the healthcare industry looking to stay informed and network with their peers. The conference will provide ample opportunities for learning and development, as well as socialising, making it an excellent investment for any organisation involved in fire safety in healthcare.

Delegates can register by clicking here.

Exhibitors can register by clicking here.

For further information about the NAHFO Annual Conference and Exhibition 2023 contact the NAHFO event team via email at nahfo@conferencesolutions.uk.com or by phone at 0121 776 7788.

About NAHFO

The NAHFO organisation is a critical national voice for all individuals associated with healthcare fire safety. Established for over 30 years, the Association has worked in close collaboration with other organisations to promote the highest standards of fire safety within healthcare environments. Throughout its history, members have helped to shape much of the guidance and legislation used in healthcare today.

With 13 branches covering all areas of the UK and Ireland, the primary aim of the Association is to protect all relevant persons in healthcare premises from fire. Other objectives include promoting the adoption of the highest standards of fire safety in healthcare premises, improving the wider understanding of the role of Healthcare Fire Officers/Advisors/Practitioners, supporting and developing opportunities for educating and training people in healthcare fire safety, and establishing liaison with other bodies on matters of common interest where this is consistent with the aim and objectives of NAHFO.

Regular networking is central to the Association, particularly for members to gain access to subject experts on all matters fire safety-related, technical questions, and the added complexities of healthcare facilities. Following the difficulties presented by the pandemic, the Association has emerged freshly invigorated, with new ideas, new members, and a general uptick in the activities and advice on offer.

The long-established Annual Conference and Exhibition was sorely missed over the lockdown year, and it came back with a bang in 2022. NAHFO is now proud to bring the event to the Midlands for 2023. With its focus on education, networking, and exchange of ideas, the conference is an essential event for healthcare fire professionals looking to stay informed and connected with their peers. It provides a unique opportunity for delegates to learn about the latest developments, participate in discussions on hot topics, and meet with exhibitors showcasing the latest equipment, services, and supplies.

The NAHFO Annual Conference and Exhibition 2023 promises to be a significant event for healthcare fire safety professionals, and it is an event not to be missed. It represents a chance to learn from leading industry speakers, network with peers, and educate oneself on all aspects of fire safety.

IFSJ Exclusive: Passion meets purpose at FIREX

by Breaking NewsEvents

Fire safety innovation and the latest legislation are on the agenda at FIREX 2023

Following a hugely successful in-person comeback in 2022 after three years away due to Covid, FIREX, returns to ExCeL London from 16-18 May this year with a packed expo hall, topical seminar programme, inspirational speakers, new Distributor Network and a partnership with charity Mates in Mind.

As an integral part of the fire safety community, FIREX is the perfect place to connect face-to-face with the entire fire safety supply chain and network with companies across passive fire protection and prevention, fire detection and emergency lighting.

Gerry Dunphy, FIREX Event Director, says: “Every visitor will come away from FIREX with knowledge and inspiration to help make buildings comply and approach projects more efficiently.”

A key theme for this year’s show is sustainability. The show’s organiser, Informa Markets, pledges to be the most sustainable event organiser in the world and is committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2025. “As a business we are completely dedicated to being a positive impact business that has sustainability at the core of what we are doing. We have a really good programme at Informa called Faster Forward and one of the principles is becoming carbon neutral by 2025,” says Dunphy.

Back for its 8th edition, the tall buildings fire safety conference will also be present, coverin three key themes. Dunphy says: “We’re really pleased the tall buildings fire safety conference is back. The programme this year is divided into three specific days, delegates can register now.”

The launch of the brand-new Elizabeth Line means visitors can now access ExCeL direct from as far away as Reading, Heathrow and Shenfield.  “The Elizabeth Line is now open and visitors can travel to ExCeL from central London in under 13 minutes, and direct from Heathrow in 45. It’s an absolute game changer,” says Dunphy. 

Third-party approved

FIREX has taken the decision to fully commit to only supporting and promoting third-party approvals, independent accreditation and competency for construction products and services, making it the only event in the UK which makes accreditation a condition of exhibiting. This means all exhibiting companies with relevant fire protection or prevention systems and materials will need to hold recognised third-party approval on their products.

Dunphy said, “We don’t see life safety as a game. We want visitors to understand that, when they come to FIREX, they are in a completely competent, accredited environment where everything they see and everyone they talk to, will have accreditation and approvals at the heart of what they do.”

New distributor network

New to FIREX and IFSEC for 2023, the Distributor Network recognises the essential role distributors play in the professional fire and security sectors. Visiting customers can meet leading distributors such as ADI Global, DVS, CIE-Group, COP, Dynamic CCTV and Oprema to discuss product solutions from market leading suppliers.  

Hosted by ASFP, the passive fire experience takes visitors on a journey of what passive fire protection means, and what the solutions are for facilities and buildings. “It is a virtual reality simulator that visitors can go into and experience passive fire protection solutions in a VR scenario,” Dunphy commens.

Seminar programme

Visitors can stay on top of government legislation, industry standards and best practice in the Expertise and Guidance Theatre sessions led by leading industry professionals.

With inspirational speakers including Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam and Dame Joanna Lumley DBE, this year’s seminar sessions on the show floor will also cover the biggest topics affecting the fire industry, including an opening panel discussion with Grenfell residents, are li-ion batteries safe or sustainable, IoT’s role in fire safety, the golden thread in building safety, mental health and more.

Tuesday, May 16th includes session We’re Not Fire Safety Experts: Fire Safety Measures from the Resident’s View (1100-1130, FIREX Expertise & Guidance Theatre) with speaker Ian Moore, CEO of the Fire Industry Association, and a panel debate. There will also be a presentation called: Golden Years: Where Does the Golden Thread Lead? (12:30-13:00, FIREX Expertise & Guidance Theatre) with speaker Andrew Cooper, Managing Director of Global HSE.

Wednesday, May 17th will see a session on Is Our Reliance on Lithium-Ion Batteries Safe or Sustainable? (1100-1130, FIREX Expertise & Guidance Theatre) with speaker Matt Humby, Senior Technical Sales Consultant at Firechief Global.

Day two will also feature Time to Talk: Mental Health Awareness in the Fire Sector (1145-1230, FIREX Expertise & Guidance Theatre) with speakers Peter Kelly, Head of Programmes at Mates in Mind; James Jones, Managing Director of Vimpex; Michelle Agius, Managing Director of Eurotech; and Tom Simmonds, Chief Executive Officer of Allsaved.

Thursday, May 18th will see Building Safety Act: Knowing Your Responsibilities (1145-1215, FIREX Expertise & Guidance Theatre) with speakers Natalie Sellar LLP, Managing Associate (Global Investigations) at Addleshaw Goddard, and Adrian Mansbridge, Legal Director at Addleshaw Goddard.

Mates in Mind

This year FIREX has partnered with a leading mental health and wellbeing charity Mates in Mind. Dunphy said: “We are delighted to partner with Mates in Mind this year – since they launched in 2017, Mates in Mind have been committed to improving mental health across the construction industry. Their target is to reach 75% of the industry by 2025 and we are thrilled to be working with them to help spread their message within what has been a traditionally very difficult audience to break into.”

Exhibition

FIREX gives thousands of visitors the opportunity to meet hundreds of leading fire safety suppliers showcasing some of the newest fire safety technologies available. Exhibitors confirmed for 2023 include C-Tec, Apollo Fire Detectors, Kentec, Advanced, Rockwool, Detector Testers, Warrington Testing & Certification, Aico, PlanRadar, Baldwin Boxall, Quelfire, Uptick, and many more.  

Several exhibitors will be showcasing brand new products at FIREX this year, including: Advanced, Onetrace, Kingspan Technical Insulation, Hyfire, Ramtech, UAO Limited, Allegion UK Ltd, AP Sensing GmbH, and Sentura Group.

At FIREX, Advanced will be showcasing AdvancedLive (stand FI.1837), its brand-new remote monitoring platform that allows users to view and control elements of their fire system from any internet-enabled device, at any location. Visitors can also get to grips with Go, its new-generation, single-loop fire panel.

Onetrace will be delivering one- to-one demonstrations of its Onetrace software at FIREX (stand FI.1239). Onetrace allows contractors to capture, monitor, review and report all from within one single system. Its intuitive design delivers the optimal user experience; allowing contractors to easily provide complete traceability and transparency to their clients.

Kingspan Technical Insulation (stand FI.1020) will be showcasing The Kingspan Safire Ventilated Cavity Barrier, that provides an effective “open-state” barrier against the spread of smoke and fire within the cavity of rainscreen façade systems. The product has been shown to provide up to 120 minutes integrity and 90 minutes insulation when tested under the demanding ASFP TGD 19: Fire resistance test for ‘open-state’ cavity barriers used in the external envelope or fabric of buildings.

Hyfire (stand FI.2430) will present the Taurus wireless fire solution, including the TauREX software for programming and setting up the Taurus system. The new TauREX configuration tool brings new user-friendly features which will empower users to save time and effort when programming and maintaining a Taurus system.

Ramtech (stand FI.2430) will be demonstrating the full capabilities of the WES Temporary Wireless Fire Alarm System in conjunction with the REACT Emergency Notification System. REACT solves emergency communication challenges on construction sites by allowing rapid communication to the relevant personnel.

UAP Limited (stand FI.1030) will be launching two new products at FIREX: The IONIC and Armasmart. The Ionic, a new ultra-secure electronic door lock that enables access via a smartphone App, has been designed to meet a growing demand for smart technology with the aim of improving security, convenience and ease of use.

Armasmart is a new product to be launched under its Armadillo brand. Forming part of a new range, this product is set to revolutionise the industry by providing an anti-bacterial coating for door hardware that prevents tarnishing.

First time exhibitors Allegion (UK) Ltd (stand FI.1217), will be demonstrating Briton cam-action closers and discussing how cam action technology provides reliable closing for fire door applications and easy operation for accessibility. Allegion will also be showcasing Briton 376 Series panic exit devices, designed to satisfy panic exit and emergency exit applications.

AP Sensing GmbH (stand FI.2019) will be showcasing it newly developed fiber optic Linear Heat Detection (LHD) device, type N45x7A at FIREX.

And Sentura Group T/A Firechief Global (stand FI.2017), will be launching Firechief PyroFlow, a new product in its lithium-Ion battery safety range. Firechief PyroFlow is a mineral-based extinguishing agent that is non-toxic and eco-friendly and can be used to fight and prevent fires in metal, lithium-ion battery cells and combustible liquids. 

FIREX – and its three co-located events – IFSEC, Facilities Show and Safety & Health Expo – are all free to attend. Visitor registration is open now.

Meet the IFSJ team!

The IFSJ team is thrilled to have the opportunity to attend FIREX 2023. The event promises to be bigger and better than ever and we eagerly anticipate the chance to network with industry peers, learn from distinguished speakers, catch up with old friends and gain new perspectives on emerging trends and best practices. Attending FIREX 2023 is an essential event for anyone interested in the latest developments in fire safety – we’re looking forward to seeing you all there!

Visit International Fire & Safety Journal at stand FI.1036

NFPA Annual Conference & Expo: Where innovation meets industry

by EventsFeatured News

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will host its annual Conference & Expo at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas on June 19-21, 2023.

This year’s event will feature more than 110 educational sessions, over 300 exhibitors, and a variety of pavilions, presentations, and special events.

The NFPA Conference & Expo is the largest and most comprehensive event for the fire, electrical, and life safety industry, bringing together thousands of leading professionals.

Keynote address

One of the highlights of the conference will be the keynote speaker at the opening general session, Dr. Albert Manero. Dr. Manero is a visionary social entrepreneur, educator, humanitarian, engineer, and superhero to hundreds of “bionic kids” who have benefited from his mission to make 3-D printed bionic prosthetic limbs accessible to all.

He will provide an inspiring account of the difference one person can make in the world while championing the art—and highly human impact—of science, technology, engineering, and math.

Highlights

The conference will also host the NFPA Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE) on June 19-20, which will cover a wide range of public education issues, such as fire prevention programs and approaches for multiple age groups, the value and impact of community partnerships, and CRR strategies that can help effectively impact communities as a whole.

The NFPA Technical Meeting will begin on June 22, allowing NFPA members and the public to express positions on each certified amending motion (CAM). If necessary, based upon the number of CAMs, the meeting will continue on Friday, June 23, allowing additional time for full debate and action. Final details of the Technical Meeting scheduling, as well as the full agenda of all CAMS to be debated and acted upon each day, will be announced by the Motions Committee on or before May 9.

About the NFPA

About the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) Founded in 1896, NFPA® is a global, self-funded, nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. The association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach and advocacy; and by partnering with others who share an interest in furthering the NFPA mission. For more information, visit www.nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be viewed online for free at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.

The Fire Safety Event: Bigger than ever before

by Breaking NewsEventsIFSJ Exclusives

IFSJ caught up with Tristan Norman, Show Director for The Fire Safety Event, to find out about what’s in store for attendees

Why should people attend The Fire Safety Event?

Since the fire safety event launched in 2016 in the NEC in Birmingham it has really gathered momentum over years, and even with the pandemic it has always grown year-on-year. This year it has grown more than any other year in its history – the show will be double the size of what it was in 2022.

We have some phenomenal exhibitors, a brilliant array of speakers, more networking opportunities and meeting opportunities than ever before, plus more opportunities for CPD. Overall, the event as a proposition truly is the UK’s number one meeting of the fire industry. We have more exhibitors and visitors there than any other platform in the UK

What is on the agenda for the fire industry at The Fire Safety this year?

One is the fallout from the Hackitt report. We’re five years on now and I think that some of the impacts are still being felt and worked through. Another is Brexit and what that has meant for product certification. In terms of new trends and innovation, we have a great section on cyber security and what that means withing the fire safety industry, how it impacts the likes of wireless detection.

Other things on our agenda are industry wide issues such as unconscious bias and levelling the playing field for anyone from any background, sex, nationality or belief to feel included in the fire industry, and to choose it as a viable career path. We’ve got some great sessions around diversity in the fire sector.

Nineteen as a business 60 per cent women. Diversity and inclusion is big on our own agenda as a business and we’re trying to help emanate that through our shows, and in light of recent reports that have come out from the London Fire Brigade, it has never been a bigger topic for the fire industry. It is one in particular that we would like to shine a positive light on and make sure that we’re doing everything we can as a vehicle and a platform for the industry to grow together and be more inclusive, and to make sure that we are utilising the incredible skillset of everyone that would like to be in the fire and safety industry.

All in all, we’re trying to create a platform for the fire industry to put them on the front foot and help people within the industry to lead the charge, whether that’s with technology and innovation or safety standards or diversity and inclusion. We are trying to be as forward thinking as we possibly can and ensure we are embracing all of the new impacts of trends and innovation as much as possible.

What key speakers and sessions should attendees from the fire industry look out for?

The session on day one that I’m really looking forward to is from Alison Phillips, the head of fire safety and risk management at Ocado. She’s coming in to talk about the lessons learned from the big Ocado warehouse fire in Andover – I think that’s going to be a fantastic session. On that same day, there’s going to be a session on unconscious bias within the industry. There will be representatives from manufacturers and industry professionals all talking around diversity and inclusion within the sector and how we can address that unconscious bias and grow as an industry.

Day two kicks off with an address from the Home Office, that is going to be a key session as it will address a lot of the issues that are still coming out of Grenfell and where we are five years down the line. We’ve then got a session in the afternoon of cyber threat to fire safety – as the world moves more digital, even in the fire and safety industry, the thread that seems to go through most industries is cyber security and cyber vulnerability and so its about making sure that our systems, particularly life safety systems are as robust as possible to ensure that there is no failure there.

Fire safety has some of the strictest certification in the world for a reason: if it fails the consequences are dire. If that is due to a hack or cyber threat then that’s something that we all need to be aware of. There are companies doing great things in that area for the fire sector.

The final day we’ve got Bob Docherty, the president if the Institute of Fire Safety Managers, talking around the Hackitt report five years on: what’s changed, what hasn’t, where there’s room for improvement.

We’ve got other interesting sessions around fire safety in residential buildings and on safe evacuation plans and the role of emergency lighting when it comes to tall buildings as well as larger commercial buildings and campuses. The conference wraps up with a session on protecting public premises so talking around what protecting public places and premises means in this day and age.

Can you tell me about the range of exhibitors from the fire industry at the show this year?

We’re delighted with the support we’ve received from the fire safety industry, from the manufacturers and service providers we’ve really been blown away by the support. We have a full sweep of the Halma Group companies which is the first time we have managed to get all of them together in one exhibiting space in many years, so that’s a big development for us.

We’ve got the likes of SSAIB, IOSH, and our supporting event partners such as IFSJ. It would be remiss for me not to talk around the work the ASFP do at our event – they put a lot into making the Fire Safety Event a success. This year they’ll be coming with their portable classroom for people to learn about passive fire and that will have a VR learning experience.

We are indebted to the Fire Protection Association (FPA) for the work they do both speaking at our event and post event, and BAFE who are key partners with us, and IFE doing IFSM. We’re really proud to work with all of our event partners and we thank them for getting involved in our event.

What networking opportunities will be available at this year’s event?

There will be networking opportunities for individual groups, a lot of the groups that come into the event like NAHFO, they’ll have a meeting at the show; Women in Fire will be having a meet up.

There’s a general rule which has become a tradition around the event which is that from 4pm onwards the event doesn’t necessarily ‘down tools’ but we start hosting our happy hours on all the networking lounges – live Music, free drinks – that will really put networking into full swing. Then there are a whole host of evening events that will happen across the city of Birmingham and the NEC campus for the whole industry – there’s too many to list, but it’s one not to be missed.

What are you most excited for as the event draws closer?

As event organisers, that transition from staring at a 2D floor plan and then seeing that built into a show always brings that sense of excitement. Seeing it built and the time and effort that our exhibitors make into those stands presences and seeing that come to life is amazing.

The thing I’m most looking forward to is that buzz. We’ve got more visitors and exhibitors registered than we ever have before, the whole event itself is nearly double in size and we’re just so excited to get to April and put on a fantastic event. Seeing it all come together is what I’m most excited about.

About the Fire Safety Event

The Fire Safety Event returns to the NEC Birmingham this month, playing host to leading manufacturers and suppliers to showcase their latest approved products and solutions. The show is dedicated to supporting industry practitioners, professionals and organisations in achieving and maintaining the very highest standards of fire safety management. Here’s what to expect from the event which kicks off on 25 April.

Over 150 exhibitors are participating at the 2023 show including many of the industry’s leading brands including such as: Advanced, Aico, Apollo, Checkmate Fire, Draeger, Eaton, Plus+ Group, Sentry Doors, and TOA. These brands and more will all be showcasing their latest research and development, product and solution launches and live demonstrations.

A number of key association and industry bodies are also supporting the Fire Safety Event and will be on hand to offer guidance and expert advice to visitors. Boasting three industry-led theatres and offering 45+ hours of free-to-attend CPD content, Education is at the heart of The Fire Safety Event. The show is the perfect opportunity for visitors to gain direct insight into improving, maintaining, and championing fire safety for all businesses.

The Fire Safety Theatre will also feature a line-up of leading industry experts and keynote speakers who will share their insight and expertise on best practice, regulatory updates and topical areas impacting the fire safety sector. Conference goers will be able to gain the practical knowledge and strategies to navigate new policy changes and stay fully compliant with fire safety standards.

New for 2023 is The Innovation & Regulation Theatre, which will showcase presentations on the important industry updates and guidance for practitioners and business owners. With a focus on standards, regulations and industry best practice, these sessions will educate businesses on how remain compliant and remain equipped to meet the needs of their clients.

The Fire Safety Event will also be introducing the specialised matchmaking service CONNECT+ Live to meet the business needs of fire safety professionals. 

Meet the IFSJ team at The Fire Safety Event!

International Fire & Safety Journal will be present at the show on Stand 3a/F57. Feel free to stop by the stand and catch up with IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey who will be on hand to talk attendees. To arrange a meeting with Iain at the show contact iain.hoey@intfireandsafetyjournal.com.

Iain Hoey says: “The Fire Safety is one of the most important events in a fire safety professionals calendar. I’m looking forward making new connections with show attendees and having the opportunity to catch up with old friends – I look forward to seeing you all there!”

Building Safety Regulator hosts inaugural conference

by EventsFeatured News

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) held its first national annual conference to support industry and dutyholders in preparing for new building safety regulations in England.

The event, held on 22 March at the Methodist Central Hall in Westminster, brought together over than 900 practitioners including architects, landlords and building control professionals looking to raise their awareness and understanding of what the BSR expects from them over the next 18 months. It marks the largest event by the regulator since it was established

Hackitt headlines

Conference goers saw a topical programme of information, learning and interactive Q&A sessions with senior BSR policy leads, and key industry representatives offering delegates valuable insights into the robust regulatory regime and guidance on the legal duties and requirements under the Building Safety Act 2022.

One of the key sessions was headlined by Dame Judith Hackitt on the Industry Safety Steering Group’s third report in which she discussed culture change in the built environment industry.

Milestone moment

The conference comes at a ‘milestone moment’ for building safety as the registration process for high-rise residential buildings (HRBs) is set to begin in April. Owners and managers of approximately 12,500 HRBs in England have until the 1 October 2023 to register with the Building Safety Regulator or face investigation and prosecution.

Key information around this crucial registration stage was covered in detail throughout the event to help dutyholders better understand how to comply. Other sessions that proved popular with delegates included presentations on the HRB planning, design and construction gateways and the drive to increase competency across the industry.

Engage with the new regimine

In his keynote speech, Minister for Building Safety, Lee Rowley MP set out the importance of collaboration to delivering better standards: “We need to ensure that those working in the building industry have the knowledge and confidence to properly engage with this new regime and make it a success.”

HSE Chief Executive Sarah Albon said: “Over the past 18 months, we have been talking directly to residents and to resident groups – listening to their concerns, trying to understand what would give them the reassurance they need, and to make sure we take the steps needed to get this right. People must be safe in their own homes – and they must feel safe too.  

“You all have a really important part to play in ensuring that we can set up this new regime successfully and that HSE can continue, through the BSR, to protect people and places.”

Chief Inspector of Buildings Peter Baker added: “The regulatory reforms that will start from April will ensure that you all lead the behaviour change that is needed and do what is required to protect residents. They also introduce a new regulator ‘with teeth’ to hold to account those who chose not to learn the lessons and improve.”

Construction, sustainability and crisis management in focus at Tall Buildings Fire Safety Conference

by EventsFeatured News

The Tall Building Fire Safety Network, organiser of the popular Tall Buildings Fire Safety Conference, will be running dedicated conference sessions on 16, 17 and 18 May alongside FIREX at London’s ExCeL in May. Each day of this year’s Tall Buildings Fire Safety Conference will feature a topical debate linked to a pressing subject related to fire and building safety professionals.

Tuesday will see sessions on High Rise Construction Safety, Wednesday will cover Green Fire Safety Issues and Thursday will look at Crisis Management in High Rise & Complex Buildings.

High Rise Construction Fire Safety Conference

Sessions held on 16 May will cover all issues connected with the management of fire risk during all stages of construction fire safety in high rise buildings, considering the latest guidance from the UK and internationally, including insurance requirements, while case studies of recent high construction fires will be examined.

Key topics confirmed so far include:

  • Mark Cooper, Regional Safety Lead, Wates Construction London HSG 168, FPOCS V 10 –‘What’s Changed?
  • US Experience and NFPA 241-Ray O’Brocki, Construction Fire Safety Coalition
  • Tom Gilbert (Head of Fire Lendlease) – Managing fire safety during ‘load out’ phase of high-rise construction

Green Fire Safety Issues

On 17 May, experts will discuss the changes that are taking place in order to make buildings ‘greener’, and the potential impact this has on the fire safety risk. Discussions will look at green walls and roofs, electric cars and stored energy, photovoltaic panels and devices, alongside new systems for cooling and shading buildings.

Key topics confirmed so far include:

  • Keynote: Overview of the Fire Safety Challenges in Green Buildings and Sustainability, Prof. Guillermo Rein Imperial College London, UK
  • Green Walls and Fire Safety –Prof. Ed Galea, University of Greenwich
  • Green Walls in High Rise Structures: ‘A Sustainability Advantage or Safety Risk’ Simon Bate, Buro Happold

Crisis Management in High Rise & Complex Buildings

The 18 May sessions will centre around the need to have a robust response process when crisis events occur. The conference will draw upon the latest best practice examples of crisis management, while also exploring the proposed Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty) that will make it a requirement to have a competent response process for publicly accessible buildings.

Key topics confirmed so far include:

  • Keynote presentation: Nick Aldworth – Martyn’s Law
  • Chris Phillips –Response & solutions to Martyn’s Law
  • CPNI – Current threats and solutions

All conferences will take place in the gallery suites at London’s ExCeL, with FIREX running simultaneously on the show floor for delegates to visit, connect with industry peers and check out the latest innovations in fire safety from leading vendors.

JOIFF announces date for Digital Foam Summit

by EventsFeatured News

The JOIFF Digital Foam Summit, a one-day DIGITAL event covering all aspects of the Firefighting Foam Transition from AFFF to SFFF, is set to take place on 14 June 2023, commencing at 9am GMT.

 The JOIFF Digital Foam Summit will lead with global presentations from Subject Matter Experts, End Users and Suppliers.

Presentations covering all aspects of Foam Transition Case Studies, Testing, Performance, Decon, Proportioning, FireFighter Health, Legislation, DOD/MilSpec, NFPA 11 updates, Commercial Presentations.

There will be Digital Exhibition booths so that all visitors can download all relevant Supplier Information and meet company representatives in digital video meetings.

Registration to attend the foam summit is now open, more information on how to register can be found here.

Intersec 2023 sets new record for attendance

by EventsFeatured News

Intersec, the trade fair for safety, security, and fire protection, recorded its biggest visitor turnout in history when it wrapped up a three-day run at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) earlier last month.

Organisers reported that 43,305 industry professionals from 131 countries attended the event’s 24th edition, the largest in the series’ history with over 800 exhibitors from 55 countries spread across nine DWTC halls and the Trade Centre Arena.

The visitor turnout saw a significant uptick in international visitors, with attendees from the GCC, Europe, Asia, and the Americas accounting for 49 per cent of the total headcount.

Alex Nicholl, Show Director, Intersec, added: “This year’s heightened visitor numbers underline the industry shift to this new era of cognitive security and surveillance likely to dominate the sector going forward. It demands a heightened focus on customised technology and partnership requirements, both of which Intersec deliver.”

Intersec organisers Messe Frankfurt Middle East are now planning for the event’s silver jubilee edition to run at DWTC from 16 – 18 January, 2024.

Fire Industry Association announces date for AGM

by EventsFeatured News

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced that its 2023 Annual General Meeting and FIA Lunch will be held on Thursday 9th November, at The Brewery in London.

The event will bring together over 500 leading industry professionals for a three-course meal plus entertainment.

The association gave its thanks to everyone who completed the feedback survey for the 2023 AGM and Annual Lunch: “This feedback is incredibly helpful to us as we strive to improve the AGM and Annual Lunch each year.

As a result of the feedback, the FIA has said it intends to make the following improvements to the 2023 event:

  • Remain at the Brewery for a post lunch drinks reception
  • A more engaging AGM with more involvement from those in the audience.
  • More non-alcoholic drink options
  • Improved structure to the drink’s reception – an opportunity for members to chat with Board members

Further details of our AGM and Annual Lunch will be released in due course.  The bookings will open on the FIA website in May.