Enhancing Fire Protection for Large Premises: The Importance of Wireless Communication and Critical Alerts

by Breaking NewsCommunicationsFire Detection

By Bruce McNair, Commercial Director, Call Systems Technology

Fire safety in large facilities, such as universities, hospitals, and corporate complexes, is critical. Protecting individuals in these settings demands a comprehensive strategy that combines cutting-edge technologies with careful planning. As we move into an era where real-time data and quick communication are crucial, wireless communication systems and vital alert systems are key to managing fire safety effectively.

The Need for Reliable Fire Protection

Large facilities face unique fire safety challenges due to their size and complexity. They require durable, adaptable systems that provide real-time responses. Traditional wired systems, while reliable, lack scalability and are harder to maintain, leading to delays in alerts and response times. This emphasises the need for more dynamic solutions suited to expansive premises.

The Evolution of Wireless Communication in Fire Safety

Wireless communication technologies have greatly transformed building management, including fire safety. In fact, the shift to wireless systems brings a range of benefits:

Scalability and Adaptability

Wireless systems are easily expandable and customisable to meet the changing needs of large premises, especially in environments where building layouts and occupancy levels can frequently change.

Reduce Installation and Maintenance Costs

By eliminating the need for extensive wiring, wireless systems reduce installation time, costs, and maintenance efforts. They are also easier to update and expand as new safety requirements emerge.

Real-time Monitoring and Alerts

Wireless technology enables real-time fire alarm monitoring and critical alerts, ensuring quick detection and response during emergencies.

Improved Data Integration

Modern wireless systems integrate data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive view of fire safety status right across the premises. This integration improves decision-making and supports more effective emergency response planning.

Robust Security Measures

The latest wireless fire safety systems use advanced encryption and security protocols to protect against unauthorised access and cyber threats, ensuring communication channels remain secure and reliable.

Critical Alerts: The Backbone of Emergency Response

Efficient fire protection depends on quick, accurate alerts. In large facilities, timely alerts can greatly impact fire emergency outcomes. Here’s why critical alert systems are essential:

Instant Notification

Critical alerts guarantee that the right individuals are immediately informed when a fire alarm is triggered. This quick notification allows for swift action, such as starting an evacuation or summoning emergency responders.

Wide-Ranging Coverage

Advanced alert systems can cover large areas, ensuring every part of the premises is protected. This is particularly important in larger environments where different areas may well have different levels of risk.

Tailored Alerts

Modern systems enable the customisation of alerts based on the fire’s severity and location, ensuring a response that’s specifically tailored to each emergency.

System Integration

Critical alert systems can seamlessly integrate with other building management systems, including security and HVAC, facilitating a unified response during emergencies. This integration boosts overall safety and operational efficiency.

Reliability and Redundancy

Designed with redundancy, critical alert systems provide multiple communication pathways, ensuring that alerts are consistently delivered, even in the event of a system failure.

Real-World Application: Insights from the University of Sussex

To demonstrate the impact of these technologies, let’s take a closer look at the University of Sussex, where Call Systems Technology’s (CST) wireless fire safety systems were implemented. With the challenge of managing over 84 individual fire alarm systems across its campus, the University needed a reliable and integrated solution.

CST’s Gen2 Q System and AlarmCall Pro+ provided a reliable, integrated solution. The wireless system enabled real-time monitoring and centralised alerts, with a thorough RF signal survey ensuring optimal coverage and seamless integration of wireless transmitters and fire alarm interfaces.

Installation Process

Installation was planned to minimise disruptions, with CST working closely with Mitie Fire and Security and Ladrillos Facilities LTD. A phased approach allowed for the addition of five to six alarm interfaces daily, ensuring thorough testing at each stage.

Integration with Existing Systems

A key challenge was integrating the new wireless system with existing fire alarm panels. CST’s AlarmCall Pro+ wireless interface transmitter adapted easily, connecting with various panels and ensuring smooth data transmission to the Gen2 Q software.

Centralised Control and Monitoring

The Gen2 Q software, installed in the University’s security control room, provides a centralised platform for monitoring all fire alarms and critical alerts. The custom dashboard interface displays across two 27” touch screen monitors, offers real-time data, enabling security personnel to quickly identify and respond to incidents.

Data Harvesting and Reporting

The Gen2 Q application’s fire messaging system captures and processes data from connected alarms, generating detailed daily, weekly, building, and device-specific reports. This robust reporting capability enables proactive maintenance and ensures optimal fire safety performance.

Impact on Safety and Efficiency

CST’s comprehensive solution greatly enhances fire safety management at the University of Sussex. Real-time alerts and comprehensive monitoring enable quick, efficient responses to fire-related events, significantly improving the safety of students, staff, and visitors.

Quick and efficient fire responses have been able to safeguard lives and property by reducing injury and damage. The wireless setup cuts cabling and maintenance costs, while increased reliability enhances fire safety management and team confidence. Detailed reports ensure thorough monitoring.

The Role of Wireless Communication Across Sectors

Hospitals

Wireless fire safety systems in healthcare ensure timely alerts to the right personnel without delay, enabling swift action to protect patients and staff, with easy integration into existing infrastructure.

Corporate Complexes

In corporate settings, wireless communication offers a scalable solution for multiple buildings and floors, ensuring real-time monitoring, alerts, and employee safety as the business grows.

Retail Environments

Wireless fire safety systems in large retail spaces enhance customer safety by enabling quick evacuations and coordinated responses. As referenced earlier, seamless integration with other related systems, among them security and building management, enhances overall operational efficiency.

Industrial Sites

For industrial sites with complex layouts and hazards, wireless systems provide essential coverage and flexibility ensuring prompt and reliable communication for fire safety.

Future Trends in Fire Safety Technology

As technology continues to advance, several key trends are shaping fire safety management for large premises:

Internet of Things (IoT) Integration

IoT devices are becoming increasingly prevalent in the fire safety systems. These devices can provide real-time data on factors like temperature and smoke levels, improving the ability to detect and respond to potential fire hazards.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning algorithms can analyse data from fire safety systems to identify patterns and predict potential fire events. This capability allows for proactive measures to be taken, further enhancing the overall safety regime for the host organisation.

4G Off-Campus Monitoring

Utilising 4G routing through an encrypted tunnel, fire safety systems can maintain continuous connectivity and transmit crucial data to control rooms. This ensures constant monitoring and management of fire safety infrastructure from off-campus locations, providing an added layer of security and reliability.

Enhanced User Interfaces

Future fire safety systems will feature more intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, making it easier to monitor and respond to incidents. Enhanced visualisations tools will provide clearer insights into the status of fire safety infrastructure.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Fire Safety

As technology continues to evolve, the integration of wireless communication and real-time alerts will become increasingly essential in fire safety management. Larger facilities will greatly benefit from these advancements, ensuring they are better equipped to respond to emergencies effectively.

At CST, we are dedicated to developing and implementing technologies that not only meet current safety standards but also address future challenges. By focusing on real-time communication, adaptability, and integration, we aim to create safer environments for everyone.

As we look ahead, our mission is to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fire safety technology. Through ongoing research, development, and collaboration with industry partners and clients, we are committed to staying at the forefront of innovation, delivering solutions that protect both lives and property in the most effective ways possible.

ASFP wins two TAF Awards 2025 for leadership and competence development

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassive

ASFP receives awards for leadership and partnership in UK fire protection

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has received two honours at the 2025 Trade Association Forum (TAF) Awards, as reported by ASFP.

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward received the Outstanding Contribution Award, and the Association, along with Milford & Marah, was awarded Best Association / Supplier Partnership.

Mike Ward receives Outstanding Contribution Award

The Outstanding Contribution Award was presented to ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the Association’s development.

ASFP stated that the award acknowledged Mike Ward’s role in establishing the Association’s first dedicated office and in building relationships across the fire safety and construction sectors.

It also recognised his support for the Passive Fire Knowledge Group and his efforts to increase member engagement.

Nadine Saxon, ASFP Operations Director, said: “I am thrilled that Mike’s vision, dedication and enthusiasm has been recognised. Mike’s strong and collaborative leadership style, commitment to improving the safety of the built environment and dedication to his team and the ASFP is clear to see.”

ASFP and Milford & Marah awarded for competence development partnership

ASFP and Milford & Marah received the Best Association / Supplier Partnership Award for their work in developing and managing competence benchmarks in passive fire protection.

ASFP reported that the partnership has resulted in the creation of frameworks for competence in design, specification, sales, distribution and installation.

The Association stated that it has also contributed to broader competence efforts across the industry through engagement with the Industry Competence Steering Group and other regulatory bodies.

ASFP added that Milford & Marah has supported its internal understanding of competence and aligned initiatives with its long-term strategy.

Continued impact on UK fire protection standards

According to ASFP, the Association’s work with Milford & Marah has influenced the development of wider industry structures, contributing to competence frameworks beyond its own initiatives.

ASFP stated that the partnership has helped establish the organisation as a reference point for other sector bodies, professional groups and regulators in the built environment.

Nadine Saxon said: “Milford & Marah has played a pivotal role in raising the Association’s profile in this area and developing it into a key player in the development and management of competence.”

Focus on competency benchmarks in passive fire protection

ASFP noted that a major element of its strategy has been the development of clearly defined competency benchmarks within the passive fire protection sector.

The Association stated that work is ongoing to expand these frameworks to additional areas and to provide mechanisms for engagement with the industry.

Saxon said: “We are delighted to have won these two prestigious awards, which clearly recognise the ASFP’s commitment to improving services and increasing our value to our members, while raising competency levels across the construction and passive fire protection sectors.”

ASFP wins two TAF Awards 2025 for leadership and competence development: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) won two awards at the 2025 Trade Association Forum Awards.

Managing Director Mike Ward received the Outstanding Contribution Award.

This recognised his leadership, growth of the organisation and work to improve engagement and stakeholder collaboration.

The ASFP and Milford & Marah received the Best Association / Supplier Partnership Award.

They were recognised for their work in developing competence benchmarks for roles in passive fire protection.

This includes design, specification, sales, distribution and installation.

The partnership has also contributed to the Industry Competence Steering Group and other national efforts.

ASFP stated that Milford & Marah supported internal competence strategy alignment.

The awards were confirmed and announced by ASFP.

All quotes were provided by ASFP Operations Director Nadine Saxon.

UK remediation delays highlight demand for less disruptive cavity fire safety solutions

by Featured NewsPassiveSafety

UK Public Accounts Committee report highlights issues in cladding remediation

A report from the UK Committee of Public Accounts has raised concerns over delays and costs in cladding remediation across the country.

According to Light Science Technologies, the Injectaclad solution provided by its subsidiary Injecta Fire Barrier could offer a cost-effective, less disruptive method for cavity remediation.

The report, published on Friday 21 March 2025, found that work has yet to begin on half of the identified buildings.

It stated that the initial estimate of £600 million for 450 buildings has increased to a projected £12.6 billion to £22.4 billion for 9,000 to 12,000 medium and high-rise buildings.

It also highlighted a shortage of skilled workers and an increase in the expected scope of work.

Injectaclad solution positioned as alternative to façade removal

Injectaclad is installed within the internal cavity of a building, removing the need to dismantle brick or rendered façades.

Light Science Technologies stated that project quotes for Injectaclad are typically three times lower than conventional façade removal methods.

It added that the system enables reduced disruption for residents and shorter project durations.

It is designed to support lower risk mitigation under PAS 9980 guidance for fire risk assessments of external wall construction.

Injecta Fire Barrier activity since acquisition

Since its acquisition in November 2023, Injecta Fire Barrier has received orders totalling £2.7 million and has completed work on 11 buildings.

It currently has a quoted pipeline of active projects valued at £16.5 million.

Light Science Technologies expects this pipeline to convert at a faster rate following the Building Safety Regulator’s commitment to clear a backlog of 122 Gateway 2 projects by the end of April 2025.

CEO comments on cladding remediation and Injectaclad’s role

Simon Deacon, Chief Executive Officer of Light Science Technologies, commented on the Public Accounts Committee’s findings and the role Injectaclad could play in improving remediation progress.

Deacon said: “This report clearly highlights the slow progress on vital remediation work in the UK.

“In addition to that, public consensus is that the 2029 target for completing works is an unacceptably long time for this work to go undone.

“A stark reminder of this danger came only last August with the Dagenham fire.

“We have a compelling solution that meets new safety standards, saves money, is far faster to implement, causes significantly less disruption, and is quick to scale.

“Wider adoption of Injectaclad ultimately means that homes and places of work will be safer; both at a faster rate and with less financial burden.”

UK remediation delays highlight demand for less disruptive cavity fire safety solutions: Summary

The UK Committee of Public Accounts published a report on 21 March 2025 addressing delays in cladding remediation.

Light Science Technologies stated that its Injectaclad product offers a cost-effective solution.

The report said half of identified buildings have not had work started.

Projected costs have risen from £600 million to between £12.6 billion and £22.4 billion.

Injectaclad is installed within wall cavities, avoiding façade removal.

The system aligns with PAS 9980 guidance.

Since November 2023, Injecta Fire Barrier has completed work on 11 buildings.

It has taken £2.7 million in orders and built a quoted project pipeline worth £16.5 million.

The Building Safety Regulator aims to clear a backlog of 122 Gateway 2 projects by April 2025.

Simon Deacon, CEO of Light Science Technologies, said the Injectaclad solution reduces disruption and cost.

Promat achieves Indoor Air Comfort Gold certification for fire protection boards

by Featured NewsPassive

Promat receives Eurofins certification for low VOC emissions

Promat has secured Indoor Air Comfort Gold certification from Eurofins for its fire protection boards, demonstrating compliance with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions standards.

The certification applies to all of Promat’s standard calcium silicate and mineral-bound fire protection boards.

These products have been tested to EN 16516 and meet sustainability requirements for building standards such as BREEAM and LEED.

The certification confirms that Promat’s fire protection boards support healthier indoor air quality and sustainable building design.

Certification supports sustainable construction standards

According to Promat, the Eurofins certification provides third-party verification that its products meet industry sustainability standards.

The company states that this helps architects and specifiers ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Eurofins, a global laboratory specialising in VOC testing, continuously updates its certification criteria in line with industry changes.

This ensures that certified products remain compliant with evolving sustainability documentation requirements.

Promat’s sustainability initiatives and commitments

Promat has outlined its sustainability objectives through its ‘6 steps to CLEARCHANGE’ programme, which includes goals for environmental responsibility and product transparency.

The company reports having 26 Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) across its product range, offering lifecycle assessment data for its fire protection solutions.

These declarations provide information about the environmental impact of Promat’s boards in construction projects.

Industry perspective on indoor air quality

Duncan Gardiner, Promat Platform Sustainability and Communications Manager, commented on the certification: “Indoor air quality is essential to quality of life both for people working with Promat’s products, and those living in or spending time in the building.”

He added: “This Eurofins certification confirms the low VOC emissions of our passive fire protection boards and that our products can be used with absolute comfort indoors.

“Having third-party verification for our products is key to providing accessible and reliable sustainability information to our stakeholders, and this is one step towards supporting market needs for sustainable design.”

Promat achieves Indoor Air Comfort Gold certification for fire protection boards: Summary

Promat has received Indoor Air Comfort Gold certification from Eurofins for its fire protection boards, verifying low VOC emissions.

The certification applies to all standard calcium silicate and mineral-bound boards and aligns with sustainability standards such as BREEAM and LEED.

Eurofins conducts VOC testing under EN 16516, updating certification criteria based on industry changes.

Promat states that this provides ongoing compliance for sustainable building documentation.

The company has committed to sustainability through its ‘6 steps to CLEARCHANGE’ initiative, which includes 26 EPDs covering its product range.

Promat reports that these declarations support sustainable design and environmental transparency.

Duncan Gardiner of Promat highlighted the importance of indoor air quality and stated that third-party verification is essential for providing reliable sustainability information.

Saudi Arabia’s fire protection sector expands with ECG’s acquisition of DAB

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

ECG expands industrial services portfolio with DAB acquisition

Energy Capital Group (ECG) has announced the acquisition of Dar Al Balad Contracting (DAB) through its investment fund, ECG2.0-Fund2.

According to ECG, the acquisition strengthens its position in Saudi Arabia’s power and water industrial services sector.

DAB provides engineering and maintenance services, including fire protection systems, supporting the operational integrity of critical infrastructure.

ECG stated that this acquisition is part of its broader strategy to consolidate leading industrial service providers into a single platform, with plans to list it on Tadawul within two years.

DAB’s fire protection expertise

DAB supplies and installs fire protection systems, fire alarms, and firefighting solutions for industrial clients, including the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC).

Its fire safety services form part of a broader offering that includes gas and steam turbine maintenance, chemical cleaning, and mechanical equipment installation.

The company also provides HVAC system installations, expansion joints, and electrical and instrumentation solutions.

DAB’s fire protection services contribute to maintaining safety standards in industrial facilities, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Strategic partnership with STEGIS-KSA

DAB operates a joint venture with the Saudi Tunisian Electricity, Gas & Industrial Services Company (STEGIS-KSA), holding a 50% stake in the partnership.

The joint venture focuses on turbine and boiler maintenance, enhancing DAB’s technical capabilities and expanding its service offerings.

ECG noted that this collaboration strengthens its market position by leveraging cross-client relationships.

ECG’s national industrial services platform

ECG’s acquisition of DAB is part of its effort to establish a national industrial services platform.

The firm aims to integrate key service providers into a single entity to drive efficiency and sector-wide growth.

ECG plans to list this platform on Tadawul, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for industrial infrastructure development.

Energy Capital Group acquires Dar Al Balad Contracting to strengthen fire protection services in Saudi Arabia: Summary

Energy Capital Group (ECG) has acquired Dar Al Balad Contracting (DAB) through ECG2.0-Fund2.

DAB provides industrial services, including fire protection system supply and installation, for clients such as the Saudi Electricity Company.

The acquisition strengthens ECG’s position in Saudi Arabia’s power and water industrial services sector.

DAB operates a joint venture with STEGIS-KSA, focusing on turbine and boiler maintenance.

ECG plans to integrate DAB into its national industrial services platform, which will be listed on Tadawul within two years.

The company stated that this move supports its strategy to consolidate industrial service providers and enhance operational capabilities across the sector.

Fire-resistant honeycomb panels launched by Viva for safer buildings

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveProducts

Viva announces fire-resistant FR A1-rated aluminium panels

Viva has introduced its FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels, designed to enhance fire safety in architecture.

The company states that these panels meet the highest fire resistance standards under European Standard EN 13501-1, ensuring non-combustibility and zero contribution to fire, smoke, or toxic emissions.

According to Viva, the panels are engineered for safety-critical environments, including high-rise buildings, airports, commercial complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions.

The honeycomb core structure provides durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, making it suitable for modern construction.

Compliance with international fire safety standards

The FR A1 rating indicates that the panels meet stringent fire safety requirements.

This classification, under the European Standard EN 13501-1, ensures that the panels do not contribute to fire, smoke, or toxic emissions.

Viva states that the panels have undergone rigorous testing to confirm their performance in extreme fire conditions.

These safety features align with international fire safety regulations, addressing the growing need for fire-resistant materials in construction projects worldwide.

The company highlights that the panels can be integrated into various architectural applications without compromising safety.

Structural benefits and design flexibility

Viva’s honeycomb panels are designed to balance fire resistance with structural integrity.

The honeycomb core allows for strength while keeping the material lightweight, making it easier to install and transport.

The company states that this construction method enhances durability and ensures long-term performance.

Additionally, the panels come with customisable finishes, enabling their use in different architectural designs.

The manufacturer notes that this flexibility allows architects and developers to incorporate fire-resistant materials without aesthetic limitations.

Industry perspectives on fire safety solutions

Nitin Jain, Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., commented on the product’s development: “At Viva, safety, innovation, and sustainability drive our product development.

“Our FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels are a testament to this commitment, offering architects and developers an unparalleled solution for fire-safe construction.”

With increasing fire safety regulations in urban developments, manufacturers of building materials are introducing solutions that meet strict compliance requirements.

Viva’s new panels are positioned as a response to this demand, providing an option that integrates fire resistance, durability, and environmental considerations.

Fire-resistant honeycomb panels launched by Viva for safer buildings: Summary

Viva has introduced its FR A1-rated Honeycomb Panels, which meet the highest fire resistance classification under the European Standard EN 13501-1.

Designed for use in high-rise buildings, airports, commercial complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions, they provide a fire-safe construction option without compromising design flexibility.

The honeycomb core structure aims to ensure durability while keeping the panels lightweight, making them suitable for various architectural applications.

Viva states that the panels have undergone rigorous testing to confirm their performance under extreme fire conditions.

The company highlights their compliance with international safety regulations, addressing the demand for fire-resistant materials in modern construction.

Nitin Jain, Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., said the panels reflect the company’s commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability.

Mayplas adds new passive fire, acoustic and thermal products to range

by Featured NewsProducts

Mayplas, a provider of passive fire protection, acoustic and thermal insulation for the housebuilding industry, has introduced three new products. 

The Thermal Eaves Batt, Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit add to Mayplas’ comprehensive portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications.

Thermal Eaves Batt

The new Mayplas Thermal Eaves Batt provides a thermal barrier at the interface between the ceiling loft space and the external wall of new build homes. 

Comprising two main components, an eaves tray and a stone mineral wool insulation batt, the batt prevents cold spots and reduces heat loss while providing a clear air path between the roofing membrane and insulation to avoid condensation. The batt is suitable for roof pitches up to 45°.

Party Wall Head System

The new Party Wall Head System provides fire protection compartmentation at the party wall junction. 

Installed together as per Mayplas’ Installation Guide, the two-component system – a party wall head cap and a tile batten barrier, achieves 60 minutes fire integrity and insulation tested to the principles of EN 1363-1:2012 and EOTA TR31:2008 and independently assessed in accordance with BS 476-20:1987 and BS 476-22:1987. 

The system addresses Building Regulations requirements to maintain the continuity of fire resistance between a compartment party wall and the underside of the roof covering, so preventing the spread of fire and smoke.

Therma Soffit

Mayplas’ third new product also works at the party wall junction. The Therma Soffit provides thermal insulation within the soffit.

It is available in two thicknesses, 100mm and 150mm, facilitating required thermal resistance values (Approved Document L) and providing resistance to the passage of sound synonymous with stone mineral wool insulation (Approved Document E).

Technical Director, Mayplas, Michael Hunter’s statement

Michael Hunter, Mayplas’ Technical Director commented: “Builders are putting fire safety first and foremost.  Our new Party Wall Head System together with our existing passive fire protection range addresses that need.

“We now provide a comprehensive solution for realising passive fire protection, for reducing heat loss and for minimising sound transmission in both timber frame and masonry construction to help housebuilders create protected, energy-efficient and comfortable homes.”

Passive fire acoustic and thermal products added to Mayplas range: Summary

Mayplas has added the Thermal Eaves Batt, Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit to its portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications.

Technical Director, Michael Hunter said Mayplas are now providing a comprehensive solution for realising passive fire protection, reducing heat loss and minimising sound transmission.

Siderise launches digital Specification Packs

by Featured NewsProducts

Siderise has launched a suite of new digital Specification Packs designed to support architects, design teams, fire engineers, consultants and specifiers in collating the technical data they need to ensure accurate passive fire protection specifications.  

With versions available for curtain wall, rainscreen, masonry, and precast and sealed architectural wall systems, each pack summarises all the relevant product information for the designated application.

They provide quick and convenient access to tools and information sources, including technical datasheets, third-party certification, standard detail drawings, BIM objects, specification information and clauses.

Additionally, by including links to the latest information, users can be assured that they are working with the most up-to-date data and certifications, reducing the risks associated with holding outdated material. 

Enhanced support services

In addition to formats of data needed throughout the early selection process, the Packs also highlight the enhanced support services available from Siderise at different project stages.

This includes support with NBS Chorus specifications as a licenced NBS Specification Writing Partner, as well as information on Siderise’s bespoke testing capacity via its UKAS ISO 17025 accredited Innovation Centre. It also contains links to book CPD seminars, product training and more. 

With the introduction of the Building Safety Act and increasing focus on data-backed specifications, these Specification Packs can help Siderise customers specify products more efficiently and with greater confidence in their decision-making.

Senior Technical Engineer for Specification, Siderise, Emmie Panagopoulos’ statement

Senior Technical Engineer for Specification, Emmie Panagopoulos, who leads the creation of these tools, explains: “Passive fire protection is a crucial element of any fire safety strategy that must be considered from the earliest design stages.

“By creating these application-specific Specification Packs, we wanted to empower the people looking to use our products to be able to make the best choices for their projects, arming them with all the details, tools and supporting services they need.

“This will help them to provide adequate levels of detail and justifications to not only satisfy requirements such as Gateway 2 applications and the creation of a Golden Thread, but also confidently explain to their clients and project partners how fire safety has been embedded into their plans and strategies from the outset.”   

New digital Specification Packs launched by Siderise: Summary

Siderise has released a collection of Specification Packs, designed to help professionals collate the technical data needed to guarantee fire protection.

Senior Technical Engineer for Specification, Emmie Panagopoulos said that passive fire protection is a crucial element of any fire safety strategy.

OHEAP announces its membership in the Reset Group

by Featured NewsPeople

OHEAP has announced its membership in the Reset Group, who are a provider of compliance and contractor management solutions.

OHEAP Fire and Security has been a name in fire protection and security for over 60 years, specialising in a wide array of services ranging from fire extinguisher servicing and risk assessments to security technology.

By scanning a Reset card, other companies will instantly verify that OHEAP employees and contractors have the necessary skills and qualifications to complete work on-site, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork.

With Reset’s advanced site login system, contractors can easily check in and out. The system checks for expired licenses, permits to work and DBS checks ensuring full compliance with HSE regulations.

OHEAP customers can expect benefits from this partnership with Reset, previously a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, OHEAP now offer a streamlined solution designed to ensure that compliance and training is continuously met.

OHEAP become Reset member: Summary

OHEAP Fire and Security has announced its membership in the Reset Group. By scanning a Reset card, OHEAP will become verified to other companies that their employees and contractors have the skills and qualifications to complete on-site work.

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service named care groups Primary Authority

by Featured News

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSFRS), has been appointed as the Primary Authority for Pilgrims’ Friend Society, helping provide key fire safety advice and guidance.

The new partnership will see WSFRS provide advice on fire safety regulations for the care provider, providing a single point of contact and advice to help ensure compliance with legislation across their portfolio of supported living properties and care homes.

Primary Authority Schemes are designed to give businesses greater confidence and consistency to reduce the risk of contravening legislation by having a single point of contact to work with.

Area Manager for Protection Dave Bray, Group Manager Steve Buchanan-Lee and Station Manager Abi Link attended a ceremony at the society’s Koinonia Christian Care Home in Worthing, where they were joined by White Watch Worthing to sign the new partnership and meet residents living at the home.

The new partnership comes after WSFRS embarked upon its first Primary Authority Scheme with Churchill Retirement Living in March 2023.

Area Manager for Protection, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Dave Bray’s statement

Dave Bray said: “I am really pleased to be working as part of this partnership with Pilgrims’ Friend Society to help ensure their high levels of fire safety are maintained across their portfolio of care homes and supported living premises within the country.

“Fire safety regulations for multi-occupied residential buildings have changed enormously since the tragic events of the Grenfell Tower fire, and WSFRS is already busy working to implement the recommendations of the Phase 2 Report published last year.

New legislation can sometimes be difficult to interpret and implement, which is why Primary Authority Schemes are such an effective method of helping organisations implement effective measures to ensure they remain compliant with fire safety legislation across their whole company, rather than piecemeal across different counties.

We are now the single point of contact for all of Pilgrims’ Friend Society’s properties within West Sussex and beyond, offering consistent and accurate advice and guidance to ensure the safety of all of their residents.”

Assistant Director of Operations- Commissioning, Pilgrims’ Friend Society, Neal Shelton Green’s statement

Neal Shelton Green, Assistant Director of Operations – Commissioning, at Pilgrims’ Friend Society, said: “The family members and staff of Koinonia Christian Care Home were delighted to welcome representatives of Pilgrims’ Friend Society and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s fire safety team into their home.

An event was held to recognise the signing of the Primary Fire Authority agreement which promotes fire safety across twenty care homes and housing schemes in the charity.

The visit included a wonderful opportunity for Koinonia family members and staff to speak with members of Worthing Fire Station over refreshments.”

Pilgrims’ Friend Society partner with WSFRS to make them Primary Authority: Summary

The West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has been appointed as Primary Authority by Pilgrims’ Friend Society, helping to offer advice and to become a main point of contact for the care group.