FIA announces first new council in over a decade

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsResearch

FIA announces creation of technology council

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced plans to create a new Technology Council for the UK fire safety sector.

According to the FIA, the council will focus on evaluating emerging technologies, improving system integration, and promoting secure data use across the industry.

The organisation said this is the first time in more than ten years that it has formed a new council.

It explained that the Technology Council will include up to 15 members, with nominations opening to FIA members in September ahead of its Annual General Meeting.

The FIA confirmed that the council’s first meeting will involve selecting a Chair from the elected members.

Purpose and scope of the technology council

The FIA said the new council will assess which advancements will improve existing systems, simplify processes, and ensure reliability in fire safety technology.

It noted that while existing standards and regulations must be met, these should not prevent adoption of better methods.

The organisation added that current FIA technology working groups, such as those on Internet of Things (IoT) and cyber security, have shown there is strong member interest in technical development.

The FIA explained that the Technology Council will provide a formal structure for these discussions and ensure coordination between stakeholders.

Objectives for technology adoption

According to the FIA, the council will encourage access to real-time site data for organisations of all sizes.

It will aim to improve system interoperability, enable data-led responses, and support immediate communication between stakeholders.

The organisation said the group will also work to promote use of virtual collaboration tools, create learning platforms for sharing best practice, and strengthen relationships between clients and providers.

Planned initiatives

The FIA reported that the council will work with standards bodies to promote open data exchange protocols and system interoperability.

It stated that the group will assess new technologies, recommend adoption strategies, and develop training for FIA members on emerging tools.

The association explained that it intends to launch pilot projects to test new solutions, create guidance on cyber security, and engage with regulators on technology-related issues.

Expected benefits for members

The FIA said that members could expect better risk reduction through faster action, streamlined processes, and reduced costs.

It stated that the council aims to encourage technical innovation, improve communication between stakeholders, and position FIA members as early adopters of proven technologies.

The organisation confirmed that it sees the council as a way to strengthen collaboration in the fire safety industry.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The creation of the FIA Technology Council is intended to give fire safety professionals a structured platform for influencing the development and adoption of new technologies.

The council’s work on standards, interoperability, and cyber security could directly affect how systems are designed, integrated, and maintained in the UK.

Participation will allow practitioners to contribute to pilot projects, gain early insight into emerging tools, and help shape industry guidance.

This initiative also provides an avenue for aligning technological development with operational needs, ensuring new solutions deliver practical benefits.

FIA forms technology council for UK fire safety industry: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced plans to create a new Technology Council for the UK fire safety sector.

The organisation said the council will focus on evaluating new technologies, improving integration, and promoting secure data use.

It stated that this is the first time in over ten years that the FIA has formed a new council.

The council will have up to 15 members, with nominations opening in September ahead of the FIA Annual General Meeting.

The first meeting will involve electing a Chair from the elected members.

The FIA explained that the group will aim to improve real-time data access, system interoperability, and communication.

It will also develop learning resources, virtual collaboration tools, and stronger client-provider relationships.

The organisation said the council will work on open standards, technology assessments, training, pilot projects, and cyber security guidance.

Expected benefits for members include faster risk reduction, lower costs, and stronger collaboration.

The FIA stated that it hopes the council will encourage innovation and position members as early adopters of effective technologies.

FIA Market Conditions Survey 2025 opens to UK fire sector

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsResearch

Annual questionnaire invites feedback from UK fire companies

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has opened its 2025 Market Conditions Survey, inviting input from organisations across the UK fire safety sector.

According to the FIA, the annual questionnaire provides insight into employment trends, skills gaps, training availability, supplier pricing and payment practices across the industry.

The survey is designed to take five minutes to complete and is open to all UK-based businesses involved in fire safety.

The FIA stated that all responses are anonymous, with the data used to compile a publicly available benchmarking report.

The organisation added that the final report offers sector-wide visibility into economic and operational trends affecting fire safety businesses across the country.

Feedback will contribute to open-access industry report

The FIA explained that the results of the 2025 Market Conditions Survey will be collated into a free report accessible to the wider sector.

The association said the report aims to assist decision-makers by offering benchmark data that reflects real-time experiences within the industry.

It added that responses help identify common challenges, highlight strengths, and inform strategic planning at both company and industry levels.

The report will be made publicly available once responses are analysed and collated.

The FIA confirmed that respondents’ identities will not be collected, ensuring anonymous participation.

Survey themes include workforce, pricing and payments

According to the FIA, the 2025 edition of the survey focuses on several key themes relevant to day-to-day operations and planning within the sector.

These include recruitment and workforce availability, with the survey aiming to identify areas experiencing skills shortages or staffing changes.

The organisation stated that pricing and supplier costs are also covered, as well as patterns in payment practices among clients and contractors.

The survey further explores access to training and continuing professional development, as well as broader market confidence.

The aim, according to the FIA, is to present a cross-section of the current business environment faced by UK fire companies.

Survey supports collective planning and sector readiness

The FIA stated that the purpose of the annual survey is to provide businesses with the opportunity to share experiences that may reflect wider issues.

By participating, companies can contribute to a broader understanding of sector conditions and support collective preparation for changing requirements or pressures.

The organisation noted that the benchmarking data is intended to guide planning around investment, hiring, and service provision.

It added that the insights gathered may also help to inform policy recommendations or future training initiatives.

The final report will be made available to all respondents and to the general public via the FIA website.

Participation offers entry into £100 prize draw

As an incentive for completing the survey, the FIA confirmed that respondents will be entered into a draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

The association stated that the prize draw is open to all participants who complete the survey in full.

A link to the questionnaire is available on the FIA website and through its official communications channels.

The FIA encouraged businesses of all sizes and types to contribute, regardless of their specific area of expertise or operation.

The survey will remain open for a limited period, with the publication date of the results to be announced at a later time.

FIA Market Conditions Survey 2025 opens to UK fire sector: Summary

The FIA has launched its 2025 Market Conditions Survey for the UK fire industry.

The survey is open to all UK-based fire safety businesses.

It collects anonymous feedback on employment, training, pricing, and payment practices.

Responses will inform a publicly available benchmarking report.

The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete.

Participants will be entered into a draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

The results will be used to support strategic planning and shared understanding across the sector.

The survey is currently accessible online via the FIA’s communication channels.

UK fire alarms standard update reaches thousands via FIA roadshow

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Detection

Thousands attend nationwide events on updated fire alarms standard

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has reported that its recent BS 5839-1:2025 Roadshow reached over 2,500 fire safety professionals across the UK, providing updates on new changes to fire alarm system guidance.

According to the FIA, the campaign delivered both in-person seminars and online CPD-certified sessions to help participants understand and apply revisions to the British Standard for fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic buildings.

More than 7,200 CPD hours were issued across the programme, which the FIA said highlighted strong industry demand for accessible, expert-led education on regulatory developments.

The BS 5839-1:2025 update includes changes in areas such as documentation, system categorisation, remote access, and cyber security.

The FIA said the roadshow aimed to ensure fire alarm designers, installers, and maintainers could interpret and implement the revised standard accurately.

History of the British fire alarm systems code

The FIA explained that BS 5839-1 has served as the foundational code of practice for fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic UK premises since 1980.

The standard has undergone several updates to reflect advances in technology, practical application, and regulation.

The 2025 version introduces clearer guidance on system categorisation, enhanced expectations for documentation, and greater emphasis on remote connectivity and cyber security.

According to the FIA, industry training has historically played a central role in adoption of code changes.

It said that as the national trade body, it launched the roadshow to provide consistent, clear interpretation through technical seminars and online learning.

The programme formed part of a wider effort to align industry practice with the updated regulations through competence-building and technical support.

Education sessions offer practical support and CPD credits

The FIA said the training covered specification, installation, commissioning, and maintenance challenges arising from the new version of BS 5839-1.

The hybrid delivery model allowed professionals to attend either online or in person depending on preference and availability.

All sessions were CPD certified, and the FIA reported strong feedback from attendees, who found the content informative and well structured.

Participants noted the clarity of the Q&A sessions and the practical nature of the sessions overall.

The FIA stated that the event structure was designed to allow professionals to access the guidance flexibly while gaining formal credit for their participation.

Industry speakers highlight relevance and response

Neil Budd, Technical Manager at the FIA, said the level of participation reflected widespread interest across the sector:

“What stood out for me was how many people got involved, whether face-to-face or online, all wanting to keep up to date.

“It was great to see that kind of engagement, not just from our members but also from others in the industry.”

Oliver Doerle, Head of Customer Experience at Detectortesters and Chair of the FIA Installers & Maintainers Section, also commented on the roadshow’s impact:

“Being closely involved in planning and hosting the FIA BS 5839-1 roadshow events across the UK was a real privilege.

“Whenever BS 5839-1 is revised, it marks a major moment for our industry – it’s the backbone of how we design, install, commission, and maintain fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic buildings.d

“But let’s be honest: keeping pace with the changes can be daunting.

“There’s a lot to take in, and with no transition period, it’s vital to get up to speed quickly.

“That’s where the FIA makes a real difference.

“These roadshows gave attendees direct access to expert technical insight, breaking down the changes in a clear, digestible way.

“The feedback I heard was overwhelmingly positive.

“People left feeling informed, confident, and ready to apply the updated standard.”

Technical delivery team and FIA’s training alignment

The FIA said the roadshow programme was developed and delivered by its in-house technical experts and industry partners.

Presenters included Will Lloyd (FIA Head of Technical and Chair of FSH/12), Neil Budd (FIA Technical Manager), Jamie Gale (FIA Technical Officer), Robert Thilthorpe (FIA Technical Manager), and Ken Bullock (BAFE).

Oliver Doerle also supported planning and hosting of the events.

The FIA’s Events and Training Department coordinated logistics for the sessions across multiple regions.

The organisation said that the roadshow also served as an opportunity to update its formal training programmes in line with BS 5839-1:2025.

All training content was reviewed to ensure consistency with the revised code and to support professional development aligned with new regulatory expectations.

BS 5839-1:2025 fire alarms update reaches UK professionals: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) delivered a UK-wide roadshow on BS 5839-1:2025.

The sessions were designed to explain changes to fire alarm systems guidance in non-domestic premises.

More than 2,500 professionals participated in the events.

Over 7,200 CPD hours were awarded across the campaign.

The British Standard BS 5839-1:2025 includes new sections on documentation, system types, cyber security, and remote access.

The FIA delivered the roadshow both in-person and online.

Neil Budd and Oliver Doerle were among the key contributors.

Sessions were led by technical staff from the FIA and BAFE.

The roadshow also informed updates to FIA training courses.

Participants gave positive feedback on content quality and delivery.

The FIA confirmed it prioritises education and regulatory alignment through initiatives like this roadshow.

FIA publishes guidance on BS 5839-1:2025 fire alarm system changes

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Detection

Major revision to UK fire alarm standard announced

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published a new guidance note on BS 5839-1:2025, the British Standard for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic buildings.

According to the FIA, the document explains key changes introduced in the 2025 edition of the standard, including detector placement rules, system categories, documentation, and cyber security.

The FIA stated that the publication follows its recent national roadshow and online sessions, which were held to support professionals preparing for the updated standard.

The Association said the new guidance provides detailed commentary on the changes affecting system designers, installers, commissioners, and maintainers.

BS 5839-1:2025 replaces the 2017 edition and introduces new content across 26 clauses and annexes.

Updates to system categories and fire detector use

The FIA explained that BS 5839-1:2025 introduces a ban on using heat detectors in rooms where people sleep, including in both Category L2 and L3 systems.

The document adds that sleeping areas are now explicitly defined as high-risk, requiring smoke detection rather than heat-based alternatives.

It also stated that stairway lobbies, previously classed as low-risk, must now be fitted with automatic detection.

Category L4 systems now include recommendations for detectors in flue-like structures, while L3 requirements around ceiling voids have been reworded for clarity.

According to the FIA, detector type and configuration must be recorded and shared during commissioning and maintenance stages.

The guidance note includes new commentary in Annex D on selecting and configuring multi-sensor devices.

Changes to alarm transmission and cyber security

BS 5839-1:2025 sets out updated expectations for fire alarm transmission systems, in light of the UK’s transition to an all-IP network by 2027.

The FIA explained that the standard now includes maximum signal transmission times for Category L and P systems and requires fault reporting within specified timeframes.

A new section has also been added on cyber security and remote access to control and indicating equipment.

According to the guidance note, remote service access should require authentication and risk assessment to prevent unauthorised interference with system performance.

The FIA recommends physical protections such as locking cabinets and tamper-resistant fittings to secure network connections.

It added that a label should be placed at the control panel to remind premises management of ARC connectivity and testing responsibilities.

Documentation and maintenance updates

The 2025 revision includes new clauses on documentation, handover, and record-keeping requirements for fire alarm systems.

The FIA said users must now be given a cause-and-effect matrix or equivalent text description explaining how the system operates.

Maintenance intervals have also been clarified, with a one-month tolerance either side of the six-month servicing cycle now considered acceptable.

The Association explained that fire detection systems linked to alarm receiving centres must have each alarm type tested during servicing to confirm signal transmission.

Routine maintenance must also include functional checks of remote indicators and visual alarms, as well as checks on time clocks and updated system zoning.

Where modifications are made, a new certificate of extension or modification is now required.

Variations, void detection and call point revisions

The guidance note highlights new limits placed on what can be considered acceptable variation from the BS 5839-1:2025 standard.

According to the FIA, certain deviations are now explicitly disallowed, such as omitting a zone plan in multi-zone buildings with sleeping accommodation, or failing to provide ARC signalling in residential care homes.

Further clarification has been added on detector placement around ceiling voids, flue shafts, and structural obstructions.

The FIA said that “closely spaced” ceiling beams are now defined as those less than 1 metre apart centre to centre.

The guidance also confirms new call point rules, including clarified distance and mounting height tolerances.

Where multiple signal types share a sounder, tone differentiation must be used. In schools, class change alerts may now last up to 10 seconds.

Terms, definitions and annex reordering

BS 5839-1:2025 adopts definitions from the newly published BS 4422:2024 Fire Vocabulary.

The FIA stated that this aligns terminology across UK fire safety standards to ensure consistency in interpretation.

New terms have been introduced, including “access room,” “place of ultimate safety,” and “visual display unit.”

Annexes have also been reordered and updated. For example, a new Annex F introduces the formula for calculating false alarm rates and outlines thresholds for triggering investigations.

Annex D has been expanded with more guidance on multi-sensor use.

The guidance confirms that all variations must now be recorded in the system logbook, and firmware updates must be certified as modifications.

FIA publishes guidance on BS 5839-1:2025 fire alarm system changes: Summary

The Fire Industry Association has released a guidance note explaining updates to BS 5839-1:2025.

The standard applies to fire detection and fire alarm systems in UK non-domestic buildings.

The 2025 edition replaces the 2017 version and includes major revisions.

Heat detectors are no longer allowed in rooms where people sleep.

Automatic detection is now required in stairway lobbies.

New recommendations have been added for detector placement in ceiling voids.

The standard introduces transmission time requirements for fire alarm signals.

Cyber security requirements for remote access have been added.

Maintenance tolerances now allow for a one-month variation around six-month cycles.

Cause-and-effect matrices must be provided during system handover.

Some variations from the standard are now prohibited.

All variations must be recorded in the logbook.

Call point distance and mounting height rules have been clarified.

BS 4422:2024 terms are now used throughout the standard.

Annexes have been reordered and expanded to support the changes.

FIA Northwich Q&A event to cover BS 5839-1 and F-Gas regulations

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsEvents

BS 5839-1 update to be discussed at FIA Northwich session

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced a technical Q&A session in Northwich on 30 July 2025, focusing on current fire safety regulations and standards.

According to the FIA, the event will take place at its Northwich location and include discussions on BS 5839-1, F-Gas regulation, emergency lighting, risk assessment, and qualifications in the sector.

The event runs from 08:30 to 11:30 and is open to both FIA members and non-members. Attendees will receive 3 CPD hours.

The association said the session is designed as an interactive forum where participants can submit technical questions in advance or raise them live during the discussion.

It added that four members of the FIA’s technical team will lead the session, including Technical Managers Will Lloyd, Neil Budd, Robert Thillthorpe and Technical Officer Jamie Gale.

Topics include risk assessment, lighting and qualifications

The FIA stated that the agenda will be shaped by the attendees themselves, with questions submitted before the event or raised during the session.

It confirmed that areas of focus will include the current status and uncertainties surrounding BS 5839-1, regulatory changes to F-Gas, and new developments in emergency lighting standards.

The organisation said upcoming qualifications for the sector and practical challenges in risk assessment will also be covered.

Participants will be encouraged to bring their own questions to the discussion, allowing for broader engagement and clarity on technical topics.

The association noted that this open format is intended to help fire safety professionals address specific concerns in a structured but informal setting.

Format aims to provide direct access to technical experts

According to the FIA, the event is structured as a “Technical Breakfast Club” format, with an emphasis on open conversation and knowledge exchange.

The organisation said the discussion will be guided by the questions raised by attendees, not a fixed presentation agenda.

It confirmed that the panel of technical specialists will respond directly to the issues brought forward, giving attendees the opportunity to engage with the individuals behind current guidance.

The association added that the event will offer breakfast and informal networking opportunities alongside the technical discussion.

A £10 fee applies for FIA members and a £30 fee for non-members.

Participants to receive CPD hours for attendance

The FIA stated that all attendees will receive 3 CPD hours for participating in the session.

The association said this applies regardless of whether questions are submitted in advance or asked during the event.

It added that this CPD recognition contributes to professional development and competency maintenance across the sector.

Attendees are encouraged to email questions to technical@fia.uk.com before the event to ensure their topics are included.

A booking link is available on the FIA website.

Event will take place at FIA Northwich site

The FIA confirmed that the event will be hosted at its Northwich location.

It will begin at 08:30 and finish at 11:30 on 30 July 2025.

The association has made clear that all professionals in the fire safety and protection field are welcome to attend.

Breakfast will be provided at the start of the session, including rolls, pastries, and hot drinks.

The association reiterated that questions from the sector are the foundation of the agenda, ensuring relevance to current industry concerns.

FIA Northwich Q&A event to cover BS 5839-1 and F-Gas regulations: Summary

The Fire Industry Association will host a Q&A session at its Northwich location on 30 July 2025.

The event will cover BS 5839-1, F-Gas regulation, emergency lighting, risk assessment and qualifications.

Attendees will receive 3 CPD hours.

The panel will include FIA Technical Managers Will Lloyd, Neil Budd, Robert Thillthorpe and Technical Officer Jamie Gale.

Participants can submit questions in advance or ask them live during the event.

The agenda will be shaped by attendee input.

The event runs from 08:30 to 11:30.

FIA members pay £10 to attend, non-members pay £30.

The FIA will provide breakfast at the venue.

Booking is available through the FIA website.

Questions can be sent to technical@fia.uk.com.

Fire alarm guidance released for UK school lockdown use

by Associations and OrganisationsFire DetectionResearchSafetyTraining

Fire alarm systems may support both evacuation and invacuation procedures

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published updated guidance on using fire alarm systems to support lockdown and invacuation alerts in schools.

According to the FIA, the guidance responds to increasing interest in adapting fire detection and alarm systems for use during non-fire emergencies, including security incidents and chemical threats.

The note outlines key considerations for implementing this dual use, referring to British Standard BS 5839-1:2025 for compliance requirements.

The FIA stated that many public buildings, particularly schools, are assessing how their current alarm infrastructure can be extended to address a broader range of risks.

BS 5839-1:2025 guidance on dual alarm functionality

The guidance references Clause 5a of BS 5839-1:2025, which states that alarm systems linked to hazards other than fire must be clearly differentiated and coordinated.

The FIA explained that this requirement applies when a single fire alarm system is also used to signal lockdown alerts, which must sound different from standard fire evacuation signals.

It added that systems must be designed to prevent conflicting messages, especially in cases where different emergencies occur at the same time.

The FIA noted that in certain scenarios, such as a violent intruder on school grounds, invacuation may be given higher operational priority than evacuation.

Benefits and limitations of using fire alarm systems for lockdown

The guidance outlines several practical advantages for schools considering this dual-function use.

The FIA stated that combining lockdown alerts with existing fire alarm infrastructure can be more cost-effective than installing separate systems.

It also pointed out that fire detection and alarm systems are typically engineered for high reliability and site-wide coverage, making them suitable for time-sensitive alerts.

However, it cautioned that any adaptation must be supported by a building-specific risk assessment, technical planning, and collaboration with emergency services and installers.

Key operational considerations for schools

The FIA advised that any decision to use fire alarm systems for lockdown purposes should involve clear planning and consultation with relevant stakeholders.

It stressed that distinct alarm tones must be agreed upon and easily recognisable to avoid confusion between evacuation and lockdown instructions.

The organisation also recommended establishing procedures to manage simultaneous or conflicting emergency alerts, especially where multiple risks are present.

It emphasised the importance of ensuring that all staff understand the protocols and that decisions about alarm hierarchy are documented and agreed in advance.

Fire alarm guidance released for UK school lockdown use: Summary

The Fire Industry Association released updated guidance on 3 June 2025.

The guidance addresses using fire alarm systems for lockdown and invacuation alerts in schools.

It refers to BS 5839-1:2025 Clause 5a, which requires alarms to be distinct and coordinated.

The FIA stated that many schools are exploring this dual use due to rising safety concerns.

It noted that combining functions may reduce costs and improve system reliability.

It cautioned that lockdown alarms must be clearly differentiated from fire alarms.

The organisation said a full risk assessment must guide implementation.

It recommended stakeholder collaboration to ensure clarity and compliance.

It stated that some scenarios may prioritise invacuation over evacuation.

The FIA advised that building-specific protocols should be developed.

It concluded that schools must prepare operational responses to overlapping emergencies.

FIA reflects on first Fire Safety Summit in Gibraltar

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Industry leaders gather for FIA’s first Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar

The Fire Industry Association has reported that fire safety professionals convened for the first Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar on 15 May 2025.

The event took place on the Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel and was hosted by the FIA.

According to the FIA, the summit included expert talks, panel discussions and exhibitions designed to support professional development and knowledge sharing in the sector.

Ian Moore OBE, Chief Executive Officer of the FIA, opened the event by welcoming attendees and stating the Association’s aim to strengthen competency and cooperation in the sector.

Speakers included Colin Ramirez, Chief Fire Officer at Gibraltar Fire and Rescue, and Sir Ken Knight, former Government Chief Fire Adviser for England.

Sessions covered a range of issues including local fire risk management, European standards updates and learning from incidents such as Grenfell.

Panel discussion focuses on Gibraltar’s unique fire safety context

The Fire Industry Association reported that a panel session was held during the summit to discuss specific challenges related to Gibraltar’s fire sector.

According to the FIA, the session featured input from government representatives, private sector experts and technical professionals.

It noted that participants addressed issues including the geographical constraints of Gibraltar, regulatory expectations and coordination between agencies.

The organisation stated that delegates shared operational experiences and discussed how international developments could inform local improvements.

Speakers also highlighted how fire safety competencies can be strengthened across all parts of the fire industry, regardless of jurisdiction.

Exhibitors demonstrate products and services to attendees

The Fire Industry Association confirmed that the Fire Safety Summit included a dedicated exhibition space featuring companies from the fire sector.

According to the FIA, exhibitors included Aico, AJ Sheriff Electrical, Britannia Fire, C-TEC, The Fire Door Inspectors and Hyfire.

These companies presented their latest products and services to attendees.

The FIA said this part of the event allowed delegates to ask questions, explore current technologies and better understand the application of new fire safety tools.

It explained that exhibitors were available throughout the day to provide live demonstrations and technical support.

FIA thanks contributors and reflects on future opportunities

The Fire Industry Association thanked everyone involved in organising and contributing to the summit.

The FIA named its guest speakers as Ian Moore OBE, Sir Ken Knight, Colin Ramirez, Andy Spence, Alan Elder, Alan Wheal and Simon Sheldon.

The organisation stated that attendees contributed meaningfully through questions, discussions and shared experiences.

It said the summit demonstrated the value of in-person events for the fire industry and supported future knowledge exchange.

The FIA confirmed that it intends to build on this first summit to continue raising standards and supporting professional development.

Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar 2025 reviewed by FIA: Summary

The Fire Industry Association hosted the first Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar on 15 May 2025.

The event took place on board the Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel.

It included keynote speeches, a panel discussion and an exhibition.

Speakers included Ian Moore OBE, Colin Ramirez and Sir Ken Knight.

The summit addressed local and international fire safety topics.

It featured companies including Aico, Britannia Fire and Hyfire.

Delegates explored regulatory changes, incident responses and emerging technologies.

The FIA confirmed the event’s aim was to support learning and competence.

It thanked attendees and speakers for their participation.

The organisation stated it will build on the event’s momentum in future.

FIA and Mates in Mind launch mental health support for UK fire safety sector

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

New UK partnership to provide mental health tools for fire safety sector

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced a new collaboration with mental health charity Mates in Mind to address wellbeing in the fire safety workforce.

According to the FIA, the partnership was launched to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, which runs from 12 to 18 May and carries the theme of ‘Community’.

The FIA explained that the initiative will provide its members with access to mental health resources, including e-learning modules, guidance materials, and a text support service.

Mates in Mind to deliver mental health training and support

The FIA stated that Mates in Mind will provide tailored programmes and guidance across its membership network.

Mates in Mind is a UK-based mental health charity that works with organisations to reduce stigma and improve understanding of mental wellbeing in the workplace.

Sam Downie, Managing Director at Mates in Mind, said:
“We’re thrilled to be working alongside the FIA.”

“By bringing our tailored support and guidance to such a vital sector, we’re helping to ensure that mental wellbeing is embedded in every layer of workplace culture.”

The FIA said the aim of the programme is to embed awareness into day-to-day operations and create long-term cultural change.

Health and Safety Executive figures show impact of mental ill health

Data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) shows that in 2023/24, stress, depression and anxiety made up 46% of all reported work-related ill health cases.

According to HSE, these issues accounted for 55% of all working days lost to ill health in the same period.

The FIA said these statistics provide context for the need to increase proactive mental health measures within fire protection organisations.

Programme encourages open conversations and community support

The FIA explained that its collaboration with Mates in Mind reflects a commitment to supporting people at every level of the profession.

Steve Simper, FIA Mental Health Champion and Trainer, said:
“Our people are our greatest strength.”

“Together with Mates in Mind, we are creating safe spaces where individuals feel supported to speak up, seek help, and build resilience.”

The association added that it encourages all members to take part in the available programmes and services.

FIA and Mates in Mind launch mental health support for UK fire safety sector: Summary

The Fire Industry Association has partnered with Mates in Mind to support mental health in the UK fire safety sector.

The announcement coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025.

The theme for the week is ‘Community’.

The FIA will provide its members with mental health training, downloadable resources, and access to a support text line.

Mates in Mind will deliver tailored content and guidance for fire safety professionals.

HSE data from 2023/24 showed 46% of work-related ill health cases were due to stress, depression or anxiety.

These cases resulted in 55% of all working days lost in the period.

Sam Downie of Mates in Mind said the partnership will embed wellbeing into workplace culture.

Steve Simper of the FIA said the aim is to create safe spaces for open conversation.

The FIA encouraged its members to participate in the programme.

UK schools asked to donate used heat detectors for fire safety research

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Detection

FIA and BRE request heat detectors from school upgrades for testing

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has asked fire alarm professionals to retain and donate used but functioning heat detectors removed during school maintenance work.

According to the FIA, this appeal supports a joint research project with the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to investigate how environmental conditions affect heat detector performance.

The FIA stated that summer holidays are an ideal period for this collection, as many schools schedule system upgrades during this time.

Research aims to study environmental impact on fire detection

The Fire Industry Association explained that the project with BRE focuses on how real-life conditions influence the operation and lifespan of heat detectors.

The FIA said the results will contribute to updated standards, new maintenance advice and improved product design for the wider fire detection sector.

The organisation added that understanding long-term detector performance is essential to ensuring effective fire safety in varied built environments.

Donated devices must be working and accompanied by usage data

The Fire Industry Association confirmed that only working heat detectors will be accepted for the study.

It specified that each unit must be submitted with a completed questionnaire detailing its usage location and environmental context.

The FIA said that this contextual information is necessary for the research to deliver relevant and practical insights for future applications.

How to participate in the collection initiative

The FIA stated that heat detectors can be donated by contacting gemma.sambells@bregroup.com for shipping details.

It also asked contributors to send completed questionnaires to the same address.

The Fire Industry Association and the Building Research Establishment expressed their thanks to those who have already donated.

They noted that with the upcoming summer upgrades, now is a useful opportunity for others in the sector to contribute.

UK schools asked to donate used heat detectors for fire safety research: Summary

The Fire Industry Association is collecting used, working heat detectors during school summer upgrades.

The detectors will support a joint research project with the Building Research Establishment.

The research aims to analyse how environmental conditions affect heat detector performance.

Only devices in working order will be accepted for study.

Each donated detector must be accompanied by a completed questionnaire.

The questionnaire collects data on where and how the detector was used.

The findings will support the development of future detection standards and maintenance guidance.

Contact gemma.sambells@bregroup.com to participate or submit a device.

Fire safety in mental health care environments: Summary from FIM Expo Harrogate 2025

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

A focus on mental health fire safety at UK event

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has reported that FIM Expo Harrogate 2025 placed a distinct emphasis on practical fire safety challenges within healthcare.

The one-day UK event drew professionals from across the fire protection sector, with attendees including manufacturers, installers, consultants and system end users.

One of the most attended sessions featured Karen Byard, Fire Safety Lead at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, who presented on the complexities of managing fire risks in mental health facilities.

Karen Byard discusses mental health fire risks

Karen Byard’s session explored how fire safety standards are implemented in care environments with vulnerable individuals.

Her talk outlined how patient needs, environmental design, and regulatory compliance interact in NHS mental health wards.

She highlighted measures adopted by her Trust, including silent alarm systems to reduce distress, ligature-resistant features, and the use of fire-resistant materials such as flaxboard core doors.

Byard said: “Fire safety in any healthcare building is critical to the safety of patients, visitors, staff, and the ability of the building to enable staff to provide ongoing care.”

Real-life incidents inform system design

Byard provided examples of how past fire incidents have shaped the Trust’s approach.

She discussed risk assessments, community-based prevention strategies, and a layered response combining passive fire protection and staff training.

She said: “There is also an increased risk of fires being deliberately set by patients, which means that we need to be confident that the preventive measures in place are in a good state of repair and checked or tested regularly.”

The presentation connected regulatory frameworks with frontline practice, illustrating how risk control methods are tailored to individual service users’ needs.

Technical displays support professional learning

In addition to the conference sessions, FIM Expo featured interactive exhibits from UK fire safety manufacturers.

Attendees had access to demonstrations of alarm systems, suppression technologies, emergency lighting and more.

Exhibitors provided technical information directly to installers, specifiers and safety officers, supporting informed decision-making across sectors.

The event also allowed for peer-to-peer exchanges between those working in both healthcare and non-healthcare settings.

FIM Expo Harrogate 2025: Summary

FIM Expo Harrogate 2025 brought together fire safety professionals from across the UK for a day of technical demonstrations, expert talks and peer discussions.

The Fire Industry Association reported that the event featured a wide range of technologies including fire detection systems, emergency lighting, alarms and suppression products.

Karen Byard, Fire Safety Lead at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, delivered a CPD-accredited session focused on fire protection in NHS mental health settings.

Topics included the use of silent alarm systems, specialist fire doors, ligature resistance and fire signage challenges.

She shared her Trust’s multi-layered response strategies, involving fire risk assessments, targeted training and building design adjustments.

Byard emphasised the importance of adapting fire safety systems to the specific needs of mental health patients.

The event enabled professionals from manufacturing, installation and consultancy to engage with suppliers and learn from operational case studies.