Jason Challenger, Bid Manager at Global HSE Group, looks at the Fire Plus performance, applications and key system benefits of Promat DURASTEEL®
In critical environments where fire resistance alone is not enough, Promat DURASTEEL® provides a proven, high-performance solution.
DURASTEEL® is an A1 non-combustible composite fire and blast protection system, engineered to deliver up to 240 minutes of fire stability, integrity and insulation, while also offering exceptional resistance to impact, explosion and severe weather.
Constructed from a fibre-reinforced cement core mechanically bonded to steel facings on both sides, DURASTEEL® combines structural robustness with certified fire performance.
This unique combination makes it a preferred system for high-risk applications including energy infrastructure, transport hubs, defence, industrial plant and critical national infrastructure, where failure is not an option.
With its Fire Plus performance characteristics, DURASTEEL® is a multi-hazard protection system designed to perform under extreme conditions.
Promat DURASTEEL® achieves up to four hours of integrity and depending on the system configuration up to four hours of insulation.
One of its unusual features is the ability, in certain integrity only applications, to achieve up to four hours of protection (in either direction) with a single sheet fitted to one side of the framework.
Many systems require boards on both sides.
The system’s robustness also means it can be designed as a load bearing system.
Promat DURASTEEL® is used to form walls, ceilings, service enclosures and duct systems.
Service enclosures can be built for cables, protecting both the cables themselves and the surrounding spaces.
DURASTEEL® ductwork is also used for smoke extraction, ventilation and kitchen extraction applications.
The system retains performance when exposed to firefighting water, mechanical vibration and external environments and is certified to British, European and international standards.
The role of licensed contractors
Promat operates a licensed contractor network to safeguard the performance of DURASTEEL® installations.
Global HSE Group (GHSE) are one of 10 contractors within that approved network.
With inhouse structural and fire engineers GHSE are the only licensed contractor with both design and installation capabilities, offering a complete turnkey solution.
The licensed contractor scheme ensures that every DURASTEEL® installation is engineered and fitted in line with the manufacturer’s tested configurations, supported by inspection and a Certificate of Conformity on completion.
For clients, the inclusion of GHSE in the Promat network provides confidence that Promat DURASTEEL® is installed according to the correct standards, from detailed design to final certification.
For GHSE, it represents formal recognition of its “do it right” ethos and technical expertise already applied across the complex fire protection industry.
Alpine group adds channel fire to special risk capability
Alpine Group has announced that Channel Fire has joined the group, with the companies presenting the move as supporting accredited fire protection delivery in complex environments.
The announcement described Channel Fire as a specialist fire protection business that provides design, installation and maintenance services where standard approaches are not always suitable.
Channel Fire was founded in 2015, according to the announcement.
What the acquisition means for both businesses
The announcement stated that the acquisition supports Alpine Group’s strategy to build out its Special Risk capability for customers operating in mission-critical and regulated environments.
Claire Owens, Chief Executive Officer of Alpine Group, said: “Channel Fire is a specialist business with a strong reputation for accredited fire protection solutions in complex environments.
“Their technical expertise, values and approach align closely with ours and we are pleased to welcome Brett, Luke and the wider Channel Fire team into the group.”
Brett Comber, Director at Channel Fire, commented: “Joining the Alpine Group is an exciting next step for Channel Fire.
“This partnership allows us to continue supporting our customers as we always have, while benefiting from the scale and support of a wider group.”
Luke Huckerby, Director at Channel Fire, added: “Being part of the Alpine Group strengthens our ability to deliver complex, specialist projects while maintaining the high standards and personal service Channel Fire is known for – for both our team and our customers.”
Service continuity for Channel Fire customers
The announcement stated that existing Channel Fire customers should see no disruption to current services or relationships.
It added that customers will continue to work with the same team, supported by additional capability and resources from the wider Alpine Group.
The companies said further updates will be shared as Channel Fire develops as part of Alpine Group.
Kerry M. Bell, principal engineer, Fire Sprinkler and Pump Equipment at UL Solutions, sets out testing procedures and clarifies temperature rating considerations for varied installation environments
For several decades, UL Solutions has examined and tested sprinklers sampled from field installations in accordance with the recommendations and requirements of applicable National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
To be effective in controlling or suppressing a fire, a sprinkler system is required to be designed and installed to provide protection against the magnitude of the fire risk anticipated to occur.
For example, the amount of water required to be discharged from a sprinkler protecting a warehouse with high-piled storage is multiple times greater than the amount of water required to be discharged from a sprinkler protecting an office facility with a smaller fire load.
While it is critical for sprinkler systems to be properly designed and installed, it is equally important for these systems to be periodically inspected, tested and maintained to help ensure that the system equipment will perform as intended if a fire occurs.
The primary focus of this article is on the examination and testing of the sprinklers sampled from a sprinkler system as referenced in the 2023 edition of NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems.
Inspection, testing and maintenance requirements for sprinklers
Periodic inspection of field-installed sprinklers is an important element of a comprehensive maintenance program for fire sprinkler systems.
As specified in NFPA 25, sprinklers showing signs of leakage, field painting, physical damage, loss of fluid in the glass bulb heat responsive element and corrosion or loading considered detrimental to sprinkler performance must be replaced.
These conditions can lead to the degradation of sprinkler performance during a fire condition.
In addition to the periodic inspection of field-installed sprinklers, the 2023 edition of NFPA 25 also requires replacement or representative sample testing of sprinklers based on the length of time in service.
Sample testing or replacement frequency depends on the sprinkler type and installation environment.
While many sprinklers do not require representative testing or replacement until they have been in service for 50 years, sprinklers having fast response elements must be tested or replaced at a shorter time interval.
Early suppression fast response (ESFR) and control mode specific application (CMSA) sprinklers that have fast response elements must be tested or replaced after 20 years in service and 10-year intervals thereafter.
Other types of sprinklers that have fast response elements must be tested or replaced after 25 years in service and 10-year intervals thereafter.
Due to the relatively complex construction of a dry-type sprinkler, as well as some of the challenging installation environments where many of these sprinklers may be installed, dry-type sprinklers must be tested or replaced after 20 years of service and 10-year intervals thereafter regardless of the sprinkler response type.
It is also worth highlighting the fact that NFPA 25 indicates that sprinklers installed in extraordinarily harsh environmental conditions, such as foundries, fertiliser facilities or areas exposed to outside weather conditions, must be replaced or representative samples tested on a five-year basis.
The frequency for sample testing or replacement of some of these sprinklers has been revised over the years in consideration of the overall performance during representative sample testing.
Sprinkler samples selected for testing are to be representative of the sprinklers installed in the system.
As noted in NFPA 25, no less than four samples, or 1% of the number of sprinklers per sample area, whichever is greater, are to be tested.
The sprinkler samples removed from the system for testing must be immediately replaced with new sprinklers.
Each sample received by UL Solutions is visually examined before testing to ascertain the sprinkler manufacturer, model or sprinkler identification number, style, type of heat responsive element, temperature rating and year of manufacturer.
The condition of the sprinkler is also noted based on visual evidence of corrosion, loading, leakage, physical damage, loss of fluid in a glass bulb heat responsive element or field painting.
The testing of the sprinklers involves an assessment of the ability of the sprinkler to operate and allow the discharge of water.
Sample testing and report
To assess the operating characteristics of sprinklers sampled from field installation environments, the samples are subjected to the sensitivity-oven heat test as described in ANSI/CAN/UL/ULC 199, the Standard for Automatic Sprinklers for Fire Protection Service.
During this test, the inlet of the sample is pressurised to approximately 5 psi (0.35 bar) and quickly plunged into an oven that circulates heated air at a constant temperature and velocity.
The actual temperature and air velocity used for the test are selected based on the temperature rating of the sprinkler.
Each sprinkler sample is observed for proper operating characteristics including the release of operating components and time of operation.
If the heat response element functions but the water seal does not release, the sample is exposed to a water supply to determine if the sprinkler’s water seal releases at 7 psi (0.5 bar).
The test report for the samples is provided to the submitter and describes the condition of each sprinkler and results of the operation test as either normal or abnormal.
The as-received condition of each sprinkler sample described in the report is based on a visual examination.
The information included in the report is intended to be considered by other parties in determining the need to replace other sprinklers in the system.
UL Solutions
UL Solutions is a global leader in safety science with deep expertise in the Built Environment industry.
We provide comprehensive testing and certification services for fire protection products, including sprinklers, supporting manufacturers throughout the entire product lifecycle, from design and development to compliance and market entry.
Our rigorous evaluation processes help demonstrate safety, reliability, and performance, enabling manufacturers to meet regulatory requirements and gain access to global markets with confidence.
Could you introduce Piping Logistics and outline how the company has grown over the past 20 years?
Piping Logistics was founded in Belgium in 2005 as a specialist in piping systems for fire protection, HVAC and industrial applications.
What began as a small family business has grown into an international operation serving more than 60 countries.
The company has invested in people, facilities and technology, which has enabled it to move from distributing components to designing and assembling complete systems.
A major step in this journey is the new production facility in Romania, which expands manufacturing capacity and supports customers across Europe and beyond.
Despite this growth, the company’s focus remains delivering high-quality components with rapid and reliable service.
How would you describe the main stages of your development in products, people and market reach?
Our development has moved through several clear phases.
We began in 2005 as a distributor linked to AquaSecurity, supplying quality piping components to local installers.
That experience shaped our customer-focused approach and helped us understand the needs of contractors.
The second phase was the shift to manufacturing.
We established in-house R&D, hired engineers and quality specialists, and launched our Profit brand so we could design products that met European standards.
This investment in expertise was essential for our transition.
The third stage was broadening our offer.
We moved from supplying couplings and fittings to providing a full package for sprinkler and HVAC installations, including valves, switches, flexible hoses and later prefabricated sprinkler pipes.
As the range expanded, so did our workforce to maintain high service levels.
Our fourth stage was international expansion.
From serving Belgium and the Benelux region, we grew across Europe, the Middle East and other regions through distribution partners and a strengthened logistics network.
Gaining certifications such as FM, UL, VdS and CE enabled us to compete globally.
The most recent stage is marked by our 20-year milestone and the opening of our Romanian facility.
This site increases capacity, brings new colleagues into the company and positions us closer to key markets.
What does the new Romanian production facility mean for your capacity and customer service?
The Romanian facility significantly increases our capacity, particularly for prefabricated sprinkler pipes.
Producing these assemblies in Romania allows us to meet higher demand and deliver project-specific pipe sections quickly without overloading our Belgian operations.
Being closer to many European customers reduces lead times and adds resilience to our supply chain.
Clients in Central and Eastern Europe benefit from shortened transport distances, and we have greater flexibility to adjust production for urgent project needs.
The site also aligns with our sustainability goals.
Manufacturing within the EU limits transport emissions, supports compliance with environmental regulations and prepares us for future measures such as CO₂ import taxes.
The facility uses energy-efficient equipment and modern processes to reduce waste.
How has your approach to quality control, logistics and assembly evolved with this growth?
Our quality control has become more rigorous as we expanded.
We operate an ISO 9001:2015 certified system and run extensive in-house testing in our Belgian laboratory, covering pressure, dimensional and performance checks.
External certifications such as FM, UL and VdS reinforce this approach and ensure consistent standards.
Our logistics operations have grown to match our international reach.
We manage a 6,000 m² warehouse in Belgium, which holds one of Europe’s largest stocks of components and allows next-day delivery for many customers.
Advanced logistics software and an in-house team coordinate everything from container imports to local distribution, supported by regional centres and partners.
Our assembly work has also developed.
We now supply prefabricated sprinkler pipes produced with dedicated welding equipment and trained technicians, improving accuracy and reducing site work.
We offer kitting and packaging for specific project phases to simplify installation.
Across all these areas, our technical teams remain available to support customers, including the ability to be on site within 24 hours for critical issues.
What trends or client demands are shaping the piping and component supply market today?
One major trend is prefabrication.
Installers face tight schedules, so there is strong demand for components that reduce site work.
Prefabricated sprinkler pipes are now widely adopted for this reason, and clients increasingly prefer integrated solutions from a single supplier.
Digitalisation is another driver.
Customers use BIM and digital procurement tools and expect suppliers to offer compatible data.
We provide Revit BIM files, digital catalogues, order tracking and online communication channels to match these expectations.
Sustainability is shaping purchasing decisions.
Clients in Europe and the Middle East are focusing on the carbon footprint of their supply chains and favour suppliers that manufacture close to the point of use.
Our Romanian facility and wider sustainability strategy respond directly to this demand, supported by durable products that reduce replacement needs.
Higher certification requirements are also influencing the market.
Many projects insist on UL, FM, VdS and CE approvals for reliability.
This is especially true for large developments in the Middle East where UL-listed components are often mandatory.
Finally, immediate availability is increasingly important.
Customers want large inventories, short lead times and strong technical support throughout the project lifecycle.
This has led us to expand stock levels and streamline logistics to meet next-day or same-day requirements whenever possible.
Looking back, what moments stand out as defining milestones in your 20-year journey?
Key milestones include our founding in 2005 by André Saelens and the decision to move from distribution to manufacturing.
Launching our Profit brand and producing the first self-designed coupling were important steps in building our own product identity.
Expanding our portfolio in the 2010s with valves, alarm valves, flexible hoses and supervisory switches widened our capabilities.
Achieving FM, VdS and UL certifications was a major validation and opened access to international projects, including our first large contract in the Middle East.
Operational milestones include establishing our 6,000 m² warehouse in Belgium, which enabled broad next-day delivery, and formalising our 24-hour on-site support.
The opening of our Romanian factory in 2024 marked our first manufacturing site outside Belgium and a significant increase in capacity.
Reaching our 20th anniversary has given us the chance to reflect on these turning points and how they have shaped the company.
What are your priorities around partnerships for the next decade?
Partnerships are central to our strategy.
We want to work more closely with installers and engineering firms from the design stage, especially on prefabrication planning.
In the Middle East we aim to strengthen ties with local distributors and may establish regional service centres or training hubs to support clients.
We will continue collaborating with AquaSecurity and maintain an active role in industry associations.
Developing strong supply-chain relationships and attracting new engineering talent will also be vital.
Our goal for the coming decade is to grow in capability and responsibility while supporting customers with high-quality products and services.
Intersec debut links fire protection and acoustic suppression design
KiddeFenwal has launched NATURA Micro, a compact inert gas fire suppression system offered through its Kidde Fire Systems brand.
The system was introduced at Intersec in Dubai, which took place from 12 to 14 January.
NATURA Micro forms part of the company’s inert gas systems portfolio and is intended to protect enclosed, small-sized assets.
Example applications include server racks, power distribution units and high-voltage cabinets.
System features and related NATURA updates
NATURA Micro uses inert gases to suppress fires rapidly, leaves no residue and is designed for low maintenance.
KiddeFenwal has also introduced updates to its NATURA total flood inert gas system, including an acoustic nozzle for environments where assets are sensitive to sound and vibration.
The updates also include a refill programme intended to reduce order fulfilment lead times to re-arm discharged systems to as little as one day.
Reduced agent quantity requirements are also intended to lower overall system ownership costs.
Rekha Agrawal, Chief Executive Officer of KiddeFenwal, said: “Heightened threats of commercial and industrial fires, and the mounting, widespread risks they pose, necessitate greater innovation on the part of fire suppression and safety leaders.
“Given this backdrop, we are especially proud to introduce new, forward-looking solutions that not only offer enhanced fire protection but add value to our growing customer base.”
The NATURA system is listed, approved and recognised by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC), FM Global, Construction Product Regulation (CPR) and Loss Benefit Prevention Certification Board (LPCB).
Welcome to the Intersec 2026 live blog from International Fire and Safety Journal (IFSJ), a running blog of the stories in the lead up to and throughout the duration of the event, which takes place from 12–14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
If you have a story you wish to be published please contact Lewis Tyler (lewisg.tyler@intfireandsafetyjournal.com) Iain Hoey (iain.hoey@intfireandsafetyjournal.com) or Isabelle Crow (Isabelle.Crow@centurianmedia.com).
January 14 2026
KiddeFenwal expands NATURA line with Micro fire protection for small assets
KiddeFenwal has launched NATURA Micro, a compact inert gas fire suppression system offered through its Kidde Fire Systems brand.
The system was introduced at Intersec in Dubai.
NATURA Micro forms part of the company’s inert gas systems portfolio and is intended to protect enclosed, small-sized assets. Read more about the new product here.
Intersec Awards 2026 winners announced in Dubai
The winners of the Intersec Awards 2026 were announced during a gala dinner at the Conrad Dubai in Dubai, UAE.
The awards are now in their fifth edition, covering 17 categories across fire and safety, security and industry leadership, selected by an independent panel of 23 international judges.
Intersec Dubai 2026 hosts Sharjah and NFPA MoU signing
L-R_Jim Pauley, NFPA President & CEO and His Excellency Brigadier Yousif Obaid Al Shamsi, Director General of Sharjah Civil Defence Authority
Sharjah Civil Defence Authority (SCDA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to form a strategic alliance aimed at improving fire and life safety in the Emirate of Sharjah.
The the MoU was signed during an official ceremony held at Intersec Dubai 2026.
The agreement was signed by His Excellency Brigadier Yousif Obaid Al Shamsi, Director General of Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, and Jim Pauley, president and CEO at the NFPA.
The alliance is intended to prioritise education and training programmes for fire and life safety professionals across the Emirate. Read more about the MoU here.
Janury 13 2026
NFPA LiNK 3.0 announced at Intersec Dubai 2026
NFPA LiNK 3.0 was announced at Intersec Dubai 2026 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 13 January 2026.
The update was confirmed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) following its participation in the event, where it hosted an NFPA Day programme for government and industry representatives.
The announcement was made by NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley as part of the programme, which focused on fire, life and electrical safety issues in the region. Read more.
Intersec Global brand launched at Intersec 2026
Intersec Global has been launched as a unified international brand bringing together Messe Frankfurt Middle East’s security, safety and resilience events under a single platform, with the brand headquartered in Dubai.
Messe Frankfurt Middle East announced the new brand on 13 January during a press conference at Intersec 2026 in Dubai, UAE.
The press conference featured Eng. Arif AlJanahi, Security Consultant, SIRA, Lt. Col. Taher Hassan Al Taheri, The General Command of Dubai Civil Defence, and Eng. Khalid Al-Khatib, Chairman, NAFFCO.
Find out more about what the unified branding means for Intersec by clicking here.
Motorola Solutions outlines Visual Alerts expansion at Intersec Dubai
Motorola Solutions has announced new on-premise AI detection capabilities for its Avigilon video security platform at Intersec Dubai, which runs from 12 to 14 January.
The update introduces Visual Alerts, a feature that allows security and operational teams to define and detect site-specific visual events across large camera networks.
These detections can include scenarios such as unauthorised vehicles near shut-off valves or blocked fire exits, with alerts generated when defined conditions are observed.
Click here to read more about the Avigilion Visual Alerts feature.
Intersec discussion examines AI in safety-critical operations
Senior government and industry leaders at Intersec discussed how artificial intelligence is moving into everyday frontline operations in safety-critical environments.
The session, titled “AI & Safety 4.0: Rethinking Human Risk,” focused on how AI is being used in safety practices, ethical decision-making and risk management culture.
Panellists said AI tools should enhance human responsibility and leadership in safety-critical settings. Read more about the panel here.
Dafo Fomtec AB hosted a VIP launch event in Dubai to introduce Enviro Neo, a fluorine-free synthetic firefighting foam developed for high-hazard applications.
The foam is formulated without partially hydrated polymers and is designed to perform in both fresh water and sea water
The launch presentation was delivered by John Olav Ottesen, CEO of Dafo Fomtec, who also introduced three new foam products. Read more about Enviro NEO here.
Intersec 2026: Inside Messe Frankfurt’s largest Intersec yet
Dishan Isaac, Show Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said the scale of the 2026 edition reflects Intersec’s role as a convening point for industry and government.
“Intersec continues to set the benchmark for advancing global dialogue and partnerships in security, safety and fire protection,” he said.
“The growth of the 2026 edition reinforces the event’s role as a platform where industry leaders, innovators and government stakeholders come together to shape the future of emergency response and infrastructure protection.”
Read IFSJ’s full rundown of Intersec 2026 from our latest issue.
Intersec 2026 opens with 50,000 visitors expected
Sheikh Mansoor opens Intersec 2026
His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, opened the event and toured the exhibition.
Sheikh Mansoor said: “Intersec has become one of the world’s leading platforms dedicated to security and safety, and the scale of international participation reflects the growing confidence in Dubai’s ability to host major global events that help shape the future of key sectors through an environment that supports innovation and knowledge exchange.
“The rapid evolution of security, safety and emergency response technologies requires constant integration between innovation, institutional readiness and practical application. Dubai is committed to reinforcing this approach by organising exhibitions that bring together global expertise, helping to strengthen community security and enhance the efficiency of safety systems in line with the highest international standards.”
Intersec Dubai 2026 opened at Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE on Monday 12/01/2026.
The 27th edition runs until Wednesday 14/01/2026 and includes an expanded Fire & Rescue exhibition alongside a specialist conference programme.
Organisers said the event brings together manufacturers, regulators, engineers and frontline responders from around the world.
Intersec reported more than 1,400 exhibitors from over 60 countries are participating, with tens of thousands of trade visitors expected across the three days.
The programme combines exhibition activity with conference sessions aimed at fire safety practice, compliance and emergency response planning
NFPA to headline Fire & Rescue Conference programme on day 2
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced the line up for its participation at Intersec.
As part of its participation, NFPA will host NFPA Day on Day 2 of the Fire & Rescue Conference.
The dedicated programme will bring together senior government officials, private-sector leaders and industry experts for a full day of panel discussions and expert-led sessions.
The agenda focuses on artificial intelligence, mega-project safety and the energy transition, with sessions framed around fire and life safety practice across the Middle East.
Signaline, the UK-based linear heat detection specialist, has confirmed its attendance for the show and said that it will provide a platform to demonstrate its latest advancements and product developments.
On its stand in Hall 7, Booth E22, the company will present a range of Linear Heat Detection with UL approval and EN54 part 22 and EN54 part 28 approvals, approved to the UAE Civil Defence standards.
Intersec 2026 returns with expanded Fire & Rescue programme
Intersec has announced the return of its Fire & Rescue sector. Fire & Rescue is one of five core sectors at Intersec 2026 and will combine a dedicated exhibition with a multi-day conference programme.
The platform is designed to bring together manufacturers, regulators, engineers, civil defence authorities and frontline responders.
Ci Global to show its full intelligent building-safety ecosystem
Ci Global will show a live demonstrations of what it describes as the world’s most complete, prevention-first fire and building safety system: Ci Safe.
Ci Safe is an intelligent, embedded building-safety system designed to protect people, property, and infrastructure at scale.
Using smart sockets, sensors, and a central command-and-control layer, it continuously monitors electrical, thermal and environmental conditions in real time.
Kentec to showcase new BESS fire protection solutions at Intersec 2026
Kentec to demonstrate life safety systems at Intersec 2026
Kentec Electronics has said it will present its latest life safety technologies at Intersec 2026. The company said the exhibition will feature a range of its recent developments aimed at supporting compliance with new regulations and addressing safety challenges in emerging sectors.
Among the products on display will be K-Detect-iON, a calibration-free flammable gas detector that identifies hydrogen at the earliest off-gassing stage to prevent ignition and enable automatic safety responses in battery energy storage systems (BESS).
Trail Group appointment strengthens passive fire safety leadership
Trail Group has appointed David Humphrey as Operations Director, with operational responsibility for the group’s Passive Fire Safety division.
Humphrey has more than 25 years of experience in high-end housebuilding and construction, working for tier one contractors.
His experience includes cost planning, contract administration, strategic procurement, subcontractor management and operational oversight for major construction projects.
Jon Crosby, Managing Director of Trail Group, said: “David brings considerable commercial expertise, leadership experience and operational strength to Trail Group at a pivotal time in our growth.
“We are delighted to welcome him to the business and to the Board.”
Role scope and professional background
In the role, Humphrey is responsible for leading and strengthening the operational teams and managing the financial performance of the business.
This includes embedding commercial processes and delivering quality, compliance and customer satisfaction across workstreams and projects.
He will support the group’s wider commercial strategy, including new sectors and partnerships for business development, and will work with the board on growth plans.
He will also oversee passive fire safety operations from contract award to completion, with responsibility for delivery to specification, schedule and budget.
Humphrey said: “Trail Group is a business with real momentum.
“I was impressed by the entrepreneurial and customer-focused culture at every level; the high calibre of people in each division, and the genuine commitment to looking after its clients.
“Its teams have a really positive and proactive attitude, rarely shying away from a challenge, and consistently going the extra mile to deliver outstanding results.
“The opportunity to help shape and grow the business really appealed at this stage of my career – to build on these strong teams, strengthen commercial rigour, and open up new avenues of work with developers, public sector organisations, social landlords and commercial clients.”
Humphrey has a degree in quantity surveying and has held senior commercial and project director roles, working across pre-construction and construction delivery.
Trail Group said its services include passive and active fire protection, construction and refurbishment, security solutions, electrical testing and installations and planned maintenance.
The company said it works nationally with housing associations, local authorities, NHS trusts, emergency services, museums, large private landlords and commercial organisations.
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has claimed that the London Fire Brigade (LFB) is facing £6 million in budget cuts, with a further £12 million in what it described as “unidentified savings.”
In a statement released on its website, the union criticised the LFB for borrowing heavily for a new headquarters redevelopment while threatening these cuts to the already overstretched frontline.
It said that the LFB 2026-2027 budget submission also removes key operational budgets such as for uniform and communications upgrades.
David Shek, Fire Brigades Union Executive Council Member for London said that “senior leaders of the London Fire Brigade are sitting on reserves and borrowing millions for property projects while fire engines sit idle, without enough firefighters to crew them.”
The FBU has alleged that between 1 January and 8 November 2025, the full fleet of fire engines was only available for 33 shifts as a result of cuts to crewing, amounting to 1 in 20 shifts.
It said the last time that every LFB fire engine was available was 30 September.
UK-based fire detection specialist Advanced has launched SmokeGo, a new smoke control system designed to provide compliant smoke management through Control & Indicating Equipment (CIE).
The launch comes amid increased scrutiny of smoke control performance and compliance across the UK construction and fire safety sectors, particularly in complex and high-risk buildings.
Approved to EN 54 Parts 2 and 4, SmokeGo is designed to comply with ISO 21927-9 and BS 7346-8 standards.
The system, available for the UK market, integrates with Advanced’s MxPro 5 fire panels, enabling both automatic and manual control of fans and dampers.
SmokeGo supports up to 15 fan and damper switch cards per P-Bus and can be scaled further using PENN or additional panels, making it suitable for projects of varying sizes.
Each switch card can control up to six individual fans and dampers, allowing flexible smoke compartment management and manual override options.
The control system has been designed to support faster configuration and commissioning. Configuration is handled via Advanced’s software, which pre-allocates inputs and outputs for fan and damper control and automatically applies required feedback delays, simplifying system setup.
Additional features include cascade mode to manage smoke spread across compartments, automatic stairwell pressurisation, post-alarm purge functions, and interlocks to ensure dampers are open before fans are activated, helping to prevent duct over-pressurisation.
Automatic testing can also be scheduled to support regulatory compliance while reducing maintenance visits.
SmokeGo is intended for use in applications including high-rise residential buildings, commercial developments, healthcare facilities and mixed-use projects.
Smoke control system with custom options
SmokeGo is also available as a custom panel option through Advanced’s AdSpecials service, offering tailored enclosures, interfaces and finishes for site-specific requirements.
Automatic testing can also be scheduled to support regulatory compliance while reducing maintenance visits.
Intersec 2026 has announced new show features for its 12 to 14 January 2026 return to Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai, UAE.
The organisers said the 27th edition of Intersec will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
They said the new elements include Passive Fire Day, the Control Room Innovation Theatre and the co-located FCIA–NFCA PFPCON ’26 Dubai.
The organisers also announced invitation-only Executive Roundtables and an Innovation Trail for exhibitor showcases.
Intersec 2026 will be supported strategically by the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) and the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA).
The organisers said the event will host over 1,200 exhibitors from more than 60 countries across five sectors: Homeland Security & Policing, Cybersecurity, Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue and Health & Safety.
They added that over 50,000 visitors are expected across 65,000 gross square metres of exhibition space, which they described as the largest edition in the show’s 27-year history.
Passive Fire Day set for 14 January
The organisers said Passive Fire Day will take place on 14 January in collaboration with the Association for Passive Fire Protection (ASFP).
They described the programme as aiming to position passive fire as a professional discipline within the built environment.
The organisers defined passive fire protection as built-in measures intended to contain fire and smoke, protect escape routes and maintain structural integrity.
They said examples include fire-resistant walls and floors, fire doors, fire stopping and cavity barriers.
They added that passive fire protection differs from active systems such as alarms or sprinkler systems because it does not rely on activation or human intervention.
The organisers said senior ASFP representatives and industry collaborators will lead presentations and panel discussions on early engagement in design, regulatory alignment, fire door specification and installation and competence across the passive fire supply chain.
Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Passive fire protection underpins the safety of the built environment, yet it has historically been treated as a technical afterthought rather than a professional discipline.
“By integrating Passive Fire Day and PFPCON ’26 Dubai into Intersec, we are creating a platform that brings competency, standards and accountability into sharper focus, while encouraging earlier engagement and stronger collaboration across the entire construction and life-safety value chain.”
PFPCON ’26 Dubai to run alongside
The organisers said the FCIA–NFCA PFPCON ’26 Dubai will run from 12 to 14 January 2026 as a co-located event with Intersec 2026.
They said it is presented by the Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA) and the National Fireproofing Contractors Association (NFCA).
The organisers said the event will bring together experts, innovators and practitioners to advance standards, competency and collaboration across the passive fire sector.
Control room theatre focuses on performance
The organisers said the Control Room Innovation Theatre will be delivered in partnership with the International Critical Control Rooms Alliance.
They described the theatre as a thought-leadership platform focused on control rooms and operations centres.
They said the agenda will include how cognitive control rooms are emerging, with AI and advanced data analytics used to support faster decision-making in high-pressure situations.
They added that sessions will examine integrated command centre operations and approaches to reduce organisational and sector silos during complex incidents.
The organisers said the programme will also address the role of operator wellbeing in control room performance and workforce empowerment.
Executive roundtables and Innovation Trail added
The organisers said Intersec 2026 will introduce invitation-only Executive Roundtables bringing together senior leaders from government, industry and technology.
They said the sessions will be compiled into post-event white papers intended to translate discussion into strategies, standards and future-facing innovation.
They listed roundtable topics as Redefining Crisis Management for Critical Infrastructure Protection, delivered by PwC Middle East, plus Governing the Blue: Intelligence-led Security for Gulf Maritime Boundaries and Defending the Digital Backbone: Securing National Infrastructure in the Era of AI and Hybrid Threats, both led by Kearney.
The organisers also announced the Innovation Trail as an interactive feature highlighting exhibitors presenting products and solutions across security, safety and fire protection.
Isaac said: “What unites these new features is a shared focus on people, performance and preparedness.
“Whether through professionalising passive fire, strengthening health and safety competence, or rethinking how control rooms support decision-making under pressure, Intersec 2026 is designed to help industries respond to growing complexity with clarity, capability and collaboration.”
Where this affects passive fire competence
Passive fire-protection contractors, fire door specialists and fire-stopping installers can use Passive Fire Day and PFPCON ’26 Dubai as focal points for updates on competence, standards and supply chain expectations described in the programme.
Architects, building services engineers and fire engineering consultants involved in early-stage design can track sessions focused on earlier engagement in design and regulatory alignment, as outlined by the organisers.
Facility managers and procurement teams responsible for built environment life safety can monitor the event’s passive fire content because it centres on specification and installation topics, including fire doors and cavity barriers.
Emergency and disaster response managers running control rooms and operations centres can follow the Control Room Innovation Theatre sessions covering AI-enabled decision-making, integrated command centre operations and operator wellbeing.
Organisations with responsibility for security, safety and fire protection governance can review the planned post-event white papers from the Executive Roundtables, which are intended to translate the discussions into strategies and standards.
