Johnson Controls launches fire detection solution for small businesses

by Featured NewsFire Detection

A fresh addition to Johnson Controls’ Fire Detection Line

On June 22, 2023, Johnson Controls, renowned globally for its work towards smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, released the latest addition to their FireClass line: The FireClass Essential fire alarm control panel. Noted for its cost-effectiveness, this new offering provides accessible and reliable fire detection solutions specifically tailored for small commercial properties such as schools, shops, restaurants, and medical clinics.

FireClass Essential Panel: Affordable, straightforward, and reliable

Tony Gryscavage, the Director of Product Management for Fire Detection Products at Johnson Controls, shared some insight on the design philosophy of the Essential Panel: “We designed the new Essential Panel with simplicity, functionality and affordability in mind. It’s the perfect product to round out our complete portfolio of conventional detection panels and devices.” It’s clear that the aim was to offer customers the latest in conventional technology at a competitive price, whilst ensuring fire detection compliance is simple to use and affordable.

Key features of the new FireClass Essential Panel

Sporting a compact, durable plastic build, the Essential Panel presents a straightforward interface that requires little to no training for installation and operation. To help reduce instances of false alarms, the panel offers a delayed alarm option and walk testing for reliable operation confirmation. Also included are useful features such as sounder and conventional zone disablement capabilities and buttons for silence, resound, and reset.

Versatile model options with compatibility across FireClass devices

The Essential Panel comes in two distinct models: a two-zone and a four-zone version. Each zone can support up to 32 devices, making it possible for the two-zone model to handle up to 64 devices, and the four-zone model up to 128. All FireClass 600 and 700 series conventional detectors, sounders, and devices are supported by the panel. Compliance with EN54-2, EN54-4 approvals, and the inclusion on the EN 54-13 system certificate list are additional advantages of this panel, surpassing the basic standards typically required of most conventional panels.

A drop-in solution for both new construction and retrofit applications

The FireClass Essential Panel, along with the other products in the FireClass conventional portfolio, is not only compatible with other products on the market but can also serve as a direct replacement in installed systems. It’s an ideal fire detection solution for both new builds and retrofit applications.

More information can be found at the Johnson Controls FireClass website: www.fireclass.com.

Advanced launches remote monitoring platform AdvancedLive

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

Fire protection solutions manufacturer, Advanced, has launched its brand-new remote monitoring platform AdvancedLive, allowing users to view and control elements of their fire system from any internet-enabled device, at any location.

AdvancedLive

AdvancedLive provides users with day-to-day reassurance that their fire system is working as intended, with instant notifications to alert them of critical incidents and status changes, and flexible secure access methods to keep their data safe.

Available now on a subscription basis to Advanced panel customers in the UK, the platform can be accessed from any internet-enabled device, anywhere in the world, giving users reassurance that they will be the first to know about any problems – no matter where they are. Text alerts notify users of fire events as they occur – and as they evolve – allowing for safer, informed decision-making to maximise safety, minimise disruption and ensure the fastest possible response time.

Designed with the user in mind, a host of features are available via an intuitive dashboard showing device status and duration of isolations and enablements with clear colour coding for easy identification. Larger sites may benefit from a floor plan option, with a full-screen, colour-coded map view showing zone and device location and status. Navigate easily with pinch-to-zoom and plot new and unmapped devices by simply dragging them to the required positions.

With data security more important than ever, AdvancedLive makes it easy to add and remove users, set permissions and view user status, giving admins complete control over who is able to access their system. Individual user actions are stored in a comprehensive log for total traceability, while automatic timeout adds an extra layer of security.

Real-time device status information helps users keep on top of servicing and makes compliance easier. Test dates and times are logged so it’s easy to see which devices are due for inspection. Meanwhile, device history flags trends and provides useful insight to help predict and prevent potential issues.

Flexible and reliable

Advanced Interim Managing Director, Faye Bartlett, said: “We know our customers value having the flexibility to manage their fire systems quickly and easily at a time and place that suits them, so I’m delighted we can offer a solution that allows them to do just that.

“AdvancedLive delivers the same reliability and ease of use you’d expect from an Advanced product, without compromising data security.”

Advanced is a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems. Advanced’s reputation for performance, quality and ease of use sees its products specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and emergency lighting.

Advanced is owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC. Its fire protection and life safety products protect an array of prestigious and high-profile sites around the globe across a wide range of sectors.

Halma is a global group of life-saving technology companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day.

AdvancedLive is currently available to Advanced fire panel users in the UK and Ireland only. To learn more and book a demo, go to: www.advancedco.com

IFSJ Exclusive: Say hello to Cygnus

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionIFSJ Exclusives

Austen Wells, Sales Manager at Cygnus, talks to International Fire & Safety Journal about the new brand

We are accustomed to using wireless technology in our every day lives. We use mobile phones with apps that allow us to turn our lighting on and off, switch on the TV, answer the doorbell and see who is outside, check our energy consumption and much, much more. However, when it comes to commercial building control, stakeholders have been sceptical about its use in their spaces.

Certainly, the wireless detection and fire alarm systems available on the market may not have had the capabilities and performance reliabilities required. But we are at now a point where wireless technology is robust enough and scalable enough to be used everywhere. 

Cygnus has harnessed its expertise with wireless technology to develop a game-changing, fully wireless and EN54 certified fire detection and alarm system called SmartNet. 

The name Cygnus derives from a constellation that was discovered in 1951 and is one of the strongest radio sources in the sky and reflects our development of the most powerful radio mesh network in any fire detection and alarm system. The brand has a strong heritage with over 10 years developing wireless technology, beginning with the launch of the original Cygnus radio evacuation systems for constructions sites, which became renowned for their range and reliability.

Launching SmartNet

The SmartNet range is designed to deliver a reliable and safe solution that offers significant reductions on fire alarm installation times as well as reduced costs for fire alarm installers, specifiers, M&E contractors and consultants. 

The system comprises of a comprehensive range of EN54 compliant and Construction Products Regulation (CPR 305/2011) certified fire detection and alarm devices suitable for permanent installation across all types of building environment.

Our intention for this wireless system is for it to be a game changer for installers. For the first time, it offers the sector a fully wireless system, which is quick and easy to install, and can be scaled effectively from small to large installations. SmartNet brings significant the operational and installation benefits of wireless technology to the market with no need for wired boosters, translators or any other wired element. It removes the often stressful first fix stage of an install.

By eliminating the need for cabling during installation, a SmartNet system can greatly reduce engineering time and the overall project cost.

Full training and support

The new system is designed to be fitted by SmartNet Certified Partners and Cygnus offers full training and technical support to its partners. The new Cygnus Academy is an in-person, high specification training hub for installers seeking to learn about the company’s new SmartNet wireless fire detection and alarm system.

Located at the company’s headquarters in Hereford, the Cygnus Academy provides a modern, fully equipped and comfortable environment where installers can complete the SmartNet one-day training course to become a Cygnus Certified Partner. The SmartNet course, combining both theoretical and practical training, provides detailed insights into SmartNet technology and the skills required to carry out a successful installation.

SmartNet is set to revolutionise the fire safety industry. It is a reliable, safe and a quick to install solution, built on wireless mesh network technology, that will transform the way you work, help you deal effectively with labour shortages and improve your business efficiency. It is also a highly sustainable solution that will substantially reduce the amount of copper wiring and other materials you use on a project.

Cygnus is not stopping with just launching SmartNet – our Cygnus Academy and our dedicated technical support services ensure we can offer our customers everything they need to deliver successful projects.

The Cygnus team will be at The Fire Safety Event on stand 3a/B10.

To become a Cygnus Certified Partner, installers need to attend training at the Cygnus Academy – for more details get in touch here: help@cygnus-academy.com. For more information visit, www.cygnus-systems.com.

This article was originally published in the April edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Norwegian project selects Hyfire Wireless Fire Devices

by Featured NewsProjects

Following the recent announcement of its strategic partnership with Norwegian fire systems leader Holta & Håland Safety, Hyfire has unveiled the first project in Norway to feature its world-leading Taurus wireless fire devices.

Almost 200 Hyfire wireless devices, linked to Advanced MxPro panels, were installed as part of a complete revamp of the two fire systems at Niels Juels Gate 20-22, a 1985-built residential complex in Oslo. Wired detectors were used in the garage area and other common areas, with Taurus wireless detectors and other devices installed in lift shafts, stairwells, ventilation rooms and apartments.

‘Up to the challenge’

David Gulbrandsen, CEO of Branntek, the company that installed the new systems, said: “Although we have previously installed wireless fire devices, this was our first experience of the Hyfire brand, which was only recently introduced into Norway by Holta & Håland Safety. After evaluating two different options, we quickly discovered that Taurus was the only system on the market that was up to the challenge.

“A wireless installation is time-saving, reduces the need for cabling and removes the risks associated with drilling into floors and partitions. During the project, we discovered that there were small rooms that were not visible on old construction drawings. It was then very easy to expand with additional detectors instead of extending wired loops. This is both time-efficient and beneficial for the end customer.”

Hyfire offers a wide range of commercial standard wireless fire devices, ranging from optical, multi-criteria and heat detectors to EN54-23 Approved VAD’s, all fully certified to EN54. All products offer high performance and quality.

Fire panels are wired via a loop to translators, from which wireless devices can be used on their own to build fully wireless systems of almost any size, or mixed with Hyfire wired products to provide seamless hybrid solutions, offering total flexibility to specifiers and installers.

‘A wide range of programming options’

Halvor Bergsaker, Managing Director of Holta & Håland Managing Director, added: “As Hyfire’s official partner in Norway, we are extremely proud to have completed our first project with Taurus wireless devices. The team at Branntek have extensive experience with wireless systems, but they told us they have never worked with a system that has such excellent coverage and a wide range of programming options.

“The fact that you can adjust the sensitivity of the detectors is also a big advantage, especially in residential buildings where this can present a challenge, and this will be the first of many installations using Hyfire devices in Norway.”

‘A gamechanger’

Developed in Trieste, Italy, the global centre for wireless fire design, Taurus features Pathfinder Technology, which allows the devices to communicate over 1km, point to point in open air, and further where expansion hops are used. Antenna technology has been optimised to allow communication across different frequencies and environments, which means that Taurus can do the job with less equipment and less batteries, thus saving on costs.

Tom Crane, Hyfire International Director, said: “This was our first large-scale project in Norway and feedback has been fantastic. As Hyfire wireless devices are designed to international standards, they are finding homes around the world as more and more installers and end clients come to appreciate the inherent logistical and costs advantages of wireless technology.

“Taurus was a gamechanger when it launched in 2021 and we now working in close partnership with Holta & Håland to develop the Hyfire brand and Taurus products in the Norwegian marketplace.”

IFSJ Exclusive: Versatile Fire Safety Solutions from Advanced

by Breaking NewsFire DetectionIFSJ Exclusives

Sasi Kumar, Commercial Manager Middle East and Africa at Advanced, speaks about Intersec and current trends in the GCC

Are you looking forward to Intersec 2023? We’re delighted to be exhibiting at Intersec again and demonstrating why we are a ‘one-stop shop’ for a variety of fire-safety needs across a wide range of different sites and sectors – from high-rise and infrastructure to hospitality and commercial. As well as showcasing some innovative new and updated products we will also be demonstrating the benefits of each and the problems they can solve.

What new products is Advanced showcasing this year?

Our AxisGo will be on our stand, it is the new-generation single-loop non-networkable fire panel that is versatile and packed with premium features, offering a powerful option for protecting smaller sites. AxisGo gives access to Advanced’s Axis EN range performance, quality, and ease of use but in a simpler, non[1]networkable format for complete fire protection peace of mind. We’ll be demonstrating AxisGo and outlining the typical settings where it can be used, such as villa projects and smaller commercial sites. Visitors to Intersec will also be able to see the benefits of AxisGo being available as a wired, wireless or hybrid system.

What requirements does the GCC have compared with other regions?

The Middle East is a unique market with both EN and UL solutions being used. GCC customers can be disappointed if a fire system doesn’t meet the standard they require on a project, but we offer solutions for both standards in our Axis EN and Axis AX product ranges respectively. Few competitors are able to match us from that respect and this flexibility is valued by our GCC customers.

We will have our Axis ranges, with solutions for both EN and UL standards on show. The Axis ranges are not only robust and versatile, but also easy to use – from installation and commissioning to servicing, maintenance and day-to-day operation.

Providing powerful networking capacity, the Axis EN system supports robust networks of up to 200 panels per network. Networks can also be combined to create very large fire systems making the Axis EN ideal for complex, large-scale installations. Whether networking high-risk sites with complicated cause and effect, remotely monitoring networked sites, or integrating with building management systems, intuitive software and panel navigation make setup straightforward.

Meanwhile, the UL 864-approved Axis AX fire system makes light work of integrating the smoke control and audio or voice options which are frequently required for fire systems in the Middle East. The flexible Axis AX offers integrated audio for automatic (and manual) fire alarm signalling and live voice paging during an emergency. The system also provides access to DynamixSmoke, a revolutionary approach to smoke control that radically reduces the time and associated costs of configuring fans and dampers.

What trends are you seeing in wireless technology?

 Versatility is becoming key in wireless technology. We are therefore seeing heightened interest in both our Axis EN wireless system and our MxPro 5 and Go open protocol solutions. Open protocol fire panels offer great versatility by allowing customers to choose from a range of different leading detector protocols to suit individual sites and needs.

We are also seeing a growth in hybrid wireless solutions. While many companies offer wired or wireless systems, we can offer both as well as combining wired and wireless elements in one system. This versatility is ideal for existing systems requiring expansions or upgrades in settings where fire system work needs to have minimum disturbance.

What is the most common question installers ask when they come to your stand at Intersec?

They ask about false alarms – these can cause financial, operational and reputational damage, as well as costly downtime. Where they occur frequently, they can even put lives at risk through fire alarm complacency.

Our solution is AlarmCalm which allows easy, flexible configuration of false alarm strategies. It provides unprecedented control of verification and investigation delays thanks to its unique use of ‘building areas’, independent of fire zones, for programming. This feature allows precise application of different false alarm strategies across various parts of a building. Kitchens, bathrooms and conference rooms in a hotel for example require very different approaches and AlarmCalm provides plenty of freedom to choose exactly the right one.

What will visitors be looking for at Intersec when it comes to fire systems?

Reliability and quality of product – customers want complete peace of mind. We’re proud our UK-made products are proven to be robust, reliable, resilient and efficient. Some of our systems which were installed way back in 1999 are still working in 2022.

Innovation – specialist fire system manufacturers like Advanced have the innovation expertise to be able to build what the customer wants and turn things around quickly. We offer our AdSpecials service for more complex sites requiring customised fire safety equipment and we can provide both EN and UL systems as well as extinguishing systems, 100% redundant backup – and more.

Will you have any products on show for critical and high-risk sites?

Yes, we will have our ExGo gas extinguishing panels on display. It is vital to be able to protect critical infrastructure, data centres and sensitive sites where water extinguishing could destroy irreplaceable assets, so gas extinguishing is required. ExGo provides the control for the extinguishing system and is certified to extinguishing system standards.

We will also have on show our specialist redundant panel that kicks in if the main fire panel stops working and so maintains fire protection. It’s ideal for big oil and gas power plants, manufacturing, datacentres and places requiring uninterrupted fire protection. We provide a 100% hot redundant panel so users have the assurance the fire system will continue to work should a fire panel fail as the redundant panel takes over completely. This also allows repairs and maintenance to take place without any operational downtime.

What are the current trends in the Middle East when it comes to fire systems?

Most high-rise buildings require an option of voice activation but issues can arise if the audio doesn’t sync and people are able to hear multiple messages at once. To solve this our Axis AX range features PerfectSync which ensures audio synchronisation across the entire network to avoid confusion by a mixed message. This includes large networks where we are able to deliver the message from the first panel to the 200th with highly synchronised fast messaging to help people evacuate faster in case of fire.

Is building management system (BMS) connectivity important?

As buildings become increasingly complex and we see the rise in smart buildings, the use of BMS continues to grow. There has been a rise in open communication protocols such as BACnet and Modbus which allow third-party devices, such as fire panels, to be easily integrated with the BMS.

What support does Advanced provide to back up its products?

We have a highly experienced technical support team. They offer support from presale, through design and installation to maintenance. We also provide training and want users to be confident they are specifying and installing the right solution for their customers every time. Plus, this is all backed up with a good warranty for extra peace of mind.

How does Advanced see the GCC market?

We’re committed to the GCC market and are expanding our presence for the long term and we’re recruiting in the region to expand our sales and support teams. Advanced has distribution partners in UAE, Oman and South Africa and we are actively looking for partners in the rest of the GCC and beyond, as well as OEM partnerships across the world.

Visit Advanced at Intersec on 17-19 January at stand F24, Hall 4. For further information about Advanced and its products tel: +971-504854165 email: skumar@advancedco.com or visit: https://uk.advancedco.com

This article was originally published in the January edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Advanced to showcase range of fire solutions at Intersec

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Advanced, a world leader in intelligent fire systems, will be exhibiting on stand F24, Hall 4 at Intersec 2023 (17-19 January at Dubai World Trade Centre).

Advanced will be showcasing its versatile and scalable offering that makes it the one-stop shop for fire-safety solutions. On display will be some new and updated products including the company’s innovative AxisGo, the UL system Axis AX, and its versatile wireless technology.

The fire systems provider’s flexible product range offers solutions suitable for a wide range of settings – from large, complex commercial and industrial sites to small leisure, retail and high-end residential installations. Offering solutions for both UL and EN markets, Advanced really is a one-stop shop for fire safety solutions.

Sasi Kumar, Commercial Manager Middle East and Africa at Advanced said “We’re delighted to be exhibiting at Intersec once again and demonstrating how we can meet a wide variety of fire-safety needs across a wide range of different sites and sectors – from high-rise and infrastructure to hospitality and commercial. We will be showcasing new and updated products and explaining the benefits of each and the problems they can solve.

“Advanced is pleased to be able to offer both EN and UL standard compliance in our Axis EN and Axis AX product ranges respectively. This flexibility is essential for our customers in the Middle East where both EN and UL solutions are used. Furthermore, we are proud that our UK-made products are proven to be robust, reliable, resilient and efficient and offer very effective false-alarm reduction capabilities.”

AxisGo

AxisGo is the new-generation, single-loop fire panel from Advanced that is versatile and packed with premium features, offering a powerful option for protecting smaller sites such as shops, restaurants, surgeries and villas.

Available as a wired, wireless or hybrid system, this versatility makes AxisGo an ideal option when retrofitting onto existing systems that need to be expanded or in settings where disruption from fire system work must be avoided.

To meet demand in the GCC for both EN and UL solutions Advanced offers the Axis EN and Axis AX product ranges respectively. The Axis range is robust, versatile and easy to use – from installation and commissioning to servicing, maintenance and day-to-day operation.

Axis EN

The Axis EN system provides powerful networking capacity and can create robust networks of up to 200 panels. Networks can also be combined to create very large fire systems making the Axis EN ideal for complex, large-scale installations where the EN54 standard is specified.

Whether networking complex, high-risk sites with complicated cause and effect, remotely monitoring networked sites, or integrating with building management systems (BMS), intuitive software and panel navigation make setup straightforward.

Axis EN is also effective in minimising unwanted alarms thanks to AlarmCalm, Advanced’s built-in false alarm management and reduction software which all adds up to making Axis EN a trusted choice.

Axis AX

The UL 864-approved Axis AX fire system makes light work of integrating smoke control and audio or voice options which are frequently required for fire systems in the Middle East. The flexible Axis AX offers integrated audio for automatic (and manual) fire alarm signalling and live voice paging during emergencies.

The system also provides access to DynamixSmoke, a revolutionary approach to smoke control that uses a simple setup and programming process that radically reduces the time and associated costs of configuring fans and dampers. Whether configuring protection across a large networked site, integrating smoke control or combining an audio solution alongside a fire system, Axis AX’s solutions give peace of mind that you are in complete control of your fire protection.

Wireless solutions

Advanced will also be demonstrating the versatility of its wireless offering at Intersec and will be showcasing its MxPro 5 open protocol approach. MxPro 5 offers freedom, flexibility and safety thanks to the panel’s compatibility with a range of leading detector protocols, making it ideal for retrofitting.

Also on display will be the ExGo extinguishing panel which protects critical infrastructure, data centres and sensitive sites where water extinguishing would destroy irreplaceable assets, so gas extinguishing is required. While, Advanced’s specialist redundant panel kicks in if the main fire panel stops working and offers 100% hot redundant panel protection – especially useful in settings where there can be no break in fire protection, such as large industrial plants and production lines.

International expansion

Advanced is also looking to expand its presence in the GCC. The company has distribution partners in UAE, Oman and South Africa and is actively looking for new partners in the rest of the GCC and beyond, as well as OEM partnerships globally. In addition, Advanced is recruiting in the region to expand its sales and support teams. Come and to talk to the team on the Advanced stand to find out more.

As a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced is committed to creating a safer future. A reputation for performance, quality and ease of use see Advanced products specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. The Advanced product portfolio includes complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, false alarm management and reduction solutions as well as emergency lighting.

Advanced is owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC – a global group of life-saving technology companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day.

Wildfire sensor field-tested in Ventura County

by Featured NewsIndustry SectorsWildland Fire

GRID2020, Inc. has announced that its GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY® wildfire sensor capabilities were once again successfully demonstrated during a field test on 6 September at a training facility operated by Ventura County Fire Department near Camarillo, CA.

The field demonstration involved igniting a series of individual brush fires; ranging in size from small to medium. By lighting individual fires, then extinguishing each, the attendees were able to witness the versatile capabilities of the GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY outdoor wildfire sensor solution.

Alan Snook, company spokesperson explained the test process: “We staged multiple brush piles encompassing nearly 1/3 acre, then individually ignited them so our attendees could visualize the incoming fire conditions data being reported by the GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY device.

“We also included our valuable Auto Alerts feature to direct incoming wildfire data to certain attendee’s cell phones. The Auto Alerts began streaming via text messages, indicating to attendees that GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY not only was successfully detecting the wildfire conditions, but also was providing Early Detection and swift notification capability.”

Conditions for the demonstration included a clear sunny day, near record-level heat and humidity, and an intermittent prevailing wind of 5-10mph. The GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY device was able to capture and reporting key data for the attendees to view in real time regardless of fires being ignited upwind or downwind.

The device successfully detected ground-level fire surface temperature escalations, outdoor smoke from multiple nearby and upwind points of origin, and fire-induced humidity level decreases; conditions which are indicative of developing or unfolding wildfire events.

Fire Chief Dustin Gardner, Ventura County (CA) Fire Department, commented: “The successful GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY demonstration spurred several discussions about the importance and impact of technology solutions in early wildland fire detection and warning.”

Deputy Fire Chief Chad Cook, Ventura County (CA) Fire Department commented: “We are concerned about wildland fires year-round in our community, and have a very progressive mindset in leveraging technology tools, such as GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY, for the fire service to help mitigate these types of fires.”

Snook added: “We hope to see a grassroots percolation of interest and request for deployment of GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY in at-risk areas.

“We believe that as the public at-large, and vested stakeholders begin to realize that we can provide an always-on outdoor monitoring solution to create an added level of wildfire defense protections, then GRIDWIDE FIRE-SPY will be vastly adopted.”

Single-loop Fire Panel launched by Advanced for EN Markets

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

AxisGo, a new-generation, single-loop fire panel that is versatile and offers premium features has been launched by Advanced. The panel provides access to Axis EN range performance, quality and ease of use, in a simple, non-networkable format.

Available to order in a range of countries where EN Standards apply, AxisGo is suitable for single-panel sites, from restaurants, bars and villas to small offices, shops, salons and surgeries.

The fire panel has been developed with the needs of integrators, engineers and end users in mind with an easy-fit chassis with unique door design enables fast fitting, familiar controls and menus. Intuitive new configuration software is designed to make programming quick and easy and a powerful design checker proves the system will work, even before visiting site. In addition, enhanced diagnostics could mean fewer faults, faster fixes, and better long-term performance.

The panel has 15 zonal LEDs as standard for clearer visual indication without the need to buy a separate LED zone card. A range of versatile AxisGo devices also provides complete freedom to quickly and easily design the perfect wired or wireless solution for any standalone site.

Vladimir Zrnic, Sales Manager for Europe at Advanced, said: “In developing AxisGo, we wanted to ensure our customers would benefit from the performance, reliability and flexibility they’ve come to expect from our premium Axis EN range, but in a cost-effective, single-loop format for simpler sites where networking’s not needed.

“AxisGo is brimming with features that make it easy to use, as well as the latest microprocessor technology. This ensures the panel operates at lightning speed so engineers can confidently fit, check and get going to their next job, knowing people and property are safely protected from fire.”

AxisGo is the ideal solution for smaller and standalone sites. Engineered with efficiency in mind, its microprocessor technology makes it faster to install, operate and configure. Certified by FM Approvals to EN54 parts 2 and 4, AxisGo is available with two address variants (50 and 240 addresses) for site-specific flexibility. The panel offers support for both wired and wireless devices, a wide range of cause-and-effect programming, and enhanced diagnostics. AxisGo also comes with AlarmCalm false alarm management and reduction software, built in as standard.

Hochiki Italia selected for winery fire safety upgrade

by Featured NewsProjects

Hochiki Italia products have been chosen for a fire safety update at a prestigious winery in Franciacorta.

Owned by the Rabotti family since 1972, the Winery produces 500,000 bottles per year and with 70 hectares of managed vineyards, Monte Rossa is considered a leader for the quality level of the Franciacorta wines it produces.

Last May, the new Winery by Monte Rossa was opened. It was an ambitious project using the latest in wine making technology that also included an innovative fire detection system designed with the support of the installation company Eurodue srl of Brescia, a leading distributor of fire-fighting equipment and Hochiki dealer.

Monte Rossa is made up of different buildings for processing, storage, and packaging, which are mostly made of reinforced concrete and masonry. In terms of fire, the room that is the most at risk is the storage and packaging areas, since copious quantities of combustible materials are often stored in this room.

In the wine industry, substances (such as nitrogen) contained in pressure vessels (cylinders) are commonly used and so particular care has been taken when using them with produces that ensure the room can be sealed in an emergency to avoid explosions and fires.

The new fire detection system was to cover an area of 20,000-sq m, divided across four levels with indoor and outdoor areas. The automatic and manual fire detection systems were installed in offices, laboratory, vinification areas, the Barrique cellar, the “sur lattes” bottle ageing rooms and the disgorging and bottling areas.

The new Hochiki fire detection system also controls the fire doors of the compartmentalised processing and production areas of the building.

Products chosen to protect the building, contents, staff and visitors include Hochiki’s SCI Sensors which are part of the ESP (Intelligent Range) which are trusted worldwide to reduce false alarms and allow systems to be tailored to achieve optimum performance.

Ezio Danese, Project Manager at Hochiki Italia explained: “The UNI 9795 standard requires the installation of a short-circuit isolator for each zone in a building. SCI detectors with integrated isolator and various installed devices such as call points and I/O modules with double isolator ensure that the system complies with the regulatory requirements, without having to install additional isolators. This is definitely an advantage for the installer.”

Visual Alarm Devices (VADs) were also installed. These were a key component to the install because they provide a visual indication of an alarm condition, essential for areas where the public might be visiting, or in areas where staff might be wearing ear defenders.

Filippo Piubeni, co-owner of Eurodue srl, commented: “It is always a pleasure to be able to complete such an important fire detection system project. We are proud to have made secure a site such as the Monte Rossa Winery, which is not only technologically advanced but equally linked to the winemaking tradition of the Franciacorta region.

“This top-quality system will provide the best possible protection for staff and the facility’s many visitors. The system was installed by the company Bignetti Salvato and carefully programmed by FYS srl di Gregorelli Francesco, Hochiki’s Technical Assistance Centre, which was able to optimise the various operational requirements in accordance with the project and current regulations.

“The Hochiki fire detection system installed at Monte Rossa is a feather in our company’s cap for the foreseeable future.”

All UAE University buildings now linked to Hassantuk Safety System

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsSafety

UAEU University has announced that all the buildings on all campuses are now connected to the Hassantuk safety system. The system is integrated with Civil Defense Command Centre in the UAE in line with an agreement with Injazat, the UAE’s leader in digital transformation. 

Hassantuk is a strategic public-private initiative between the UAE Ministry of Interior and Injazat designed to increase the efficiency of emergency services’ responses to all fire and life safety emergency alarms through a state-of-the-art smart system, helping to cut down response times and increase efficiency in all emergency events across the UAE, reducing the danger to life and damage to property. 

For the University, the Hassantuk system will send the alarm in real-time to the Command-and-Control Center, if smoke or fire is detected. The Center will then contact the UAEU Facilities Management (FM) team to check whether it is a real or a false alarm. The FM service provider will verify and repair the false alarm, but in case of a real fire, the Civil Defense team will arrive immediately. 

Prof. Ghaleb Al Hadrami Al Breiki, Acting Vice Chancellor, said: “The United Arab Emirates University adopts the latest technical solutions and standards to enhance occupational security, safety, and health. In addition, it uses the best technologies to protect university facilities and buildings, enhance the response to emergency situations, and reduce or prevent the loss of lives and property.

“The UAEU higher management considers the safe environment of the university community as a top priority.  We seek to link the UAEU facilities to the “Hassantak” safety system, the Ministry of Interior, and “Injazat” initiative to protect lives and property from fires and emergency situations. We are pleased to relate to it to protect lives and property and ensure the safety of the UAEU buildings using the latest innovative technological solutions.

Ayman Alsebeyi, General Manager at Hassantuk, commented: “Hassantuk is one of the world’s first federal fire and life safety services that is designed not only to help save lives and property but also to assist educational institutes to ensure the safety of its buildings and visitors.”

Eng. Mohammed Al Owain, Director of the Facilities Management Department, said the university continuously seeking to keep pace with the latest security services to improve the level of safety and readiness and response to accidents and fires.

He said: “The Facilities Management Department is responsible for the university’s quality of life for students, academic and administrative staff, partners, and visitors. Therefore, it has developed a system that meets all the requirements of international safety standards in general and the standards applicable in Abu Dhabi in particular.”

He also said that it provides a positive and effective environment that contributes to promoting creativity, ensuring the health and safety of students and academic and administrative staff, and improving the conservation and management of natural resources.

Owain added: “Hassantuk will continue to provide round-the-clock protection for connected buildings, creating a safer, smarter community.”

From schools and hospitals, residential and commercial buildings, warehouses, and workshops, Hassantuk monitors connected buildings’ fire alarm systems 24/7 from a central control room, liaising with Civil Defense Operators and emergency services to transmit fire and life safety events with greater detail and speed.

Its advanced AI engines generate regular operational and business intelligence reports for Civil Defense and the Ministry of Interior, while its dedicated online dashboards and real-time messaging enable building owners to constantly monitor their properties, adding an additional layer of information and actionable intelligence.