Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service introduces online home fire safety check tool for Fire Safety Week

NIFRS introduces new fire safety tool for homes in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has launched a new online Home Fire Safety Check tool to coincide with Fire Safety Week, running from 30 September to 6 October.

As reported by NIFRS, the online tool is designed to help residents identify fire risks in their homes and provide personalised safety advice.

The tool allows users to conduct a self-assessment by answering questions about each room in their house, after which they receive a tailored fire action plan.

This new initiative is part of a wider partnership between the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and Safelincs.

It is being rolled out across all Fire & Rescue Services in the UK, aiming to raise awareness of fire hazards and promote preventive measures.

Importance of fire safety in homes

Last year, NIFRS responded to 728 house fires, with cooking and electrical issues identified as the leading causes.

Group Commander Paul Morrow of NIFRS said: “We are pleased to offer a new home fire safety tool for the community.

“The online Home Fire Safety Check is a valuable resource to identify and reduce potential fire risks in the home.”

Morrow also encouraged households to complete the assessment and to help others who may not have access to the internet.

He added: “House fires can be devastating. Even if you don’t think you’re at risk, taking the time to complete the assessment can help save lives and reduce the risk of a fire.”

In-person fire safety checks for high-risk households

As part of the initiative, households identified as high-risk through the online tool will be referred for an in-person Home Fire Safety Check.

NIFRS personnel will visit these homes to provide further practical advice on fire safety.

Morrow highlighted the importance of this service, especially for vulnerable groups: “If at the end of the assessment the household has been identified as high risk, they will be referred for an in-person Home Fire Safety Check where NIFRS personnel will visit the home to give further practical advice on fire safety.”

Fire safety collaboration with the Republic of Ireland

Fire Safety Week is a joint effort between NIFRS and the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management in the Republic of Ireland.

This cross-border collaboration is aimed at promoting fire safety in homes and preventing fire-related incidents.

Keith Leonard, Director of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management in Ireland, spoke at the launch event: “We must be always alert if we are to eliminate potential hazards that could cause fire.

“Being vigilant, keeping mindful of fire safety and practising good fire safety habits is essential.”

The campaign encourages residents to conduct routine safety checks and ensure that working smoke alarms are installed on every level of their homes.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service introduces online home fire safety check tool for Fire Safety Week: Summary

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has launched an online Home Fire Safety Check tool to promote fire safety during Fire Safety Week (30 September to 6 October).

This tool allows residents to assess potential fire hazards in their homes and provides personalised fire safety plans.

The initiative is part of a UK-wide partnership with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and Safelincs.

Households identified as high risk will be offered in-person fire safety checks by NIFRS personnel.

The campaign is a collaborative effort with the Republic of Ireland’s National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management aimed at preventing home fires and promoting fire safety awareness.

European fire safety organisations urge EU Commissioner-designate to prioritise fire safety

Fire Safe Europe and others call for fire safety in EU energy and housing agenda

As reported by Fire Safe Europe, three European fire safety organisations have jointly called on Dan Jørgensen, the European Commissioner-designate for Energy and Housing, to prioritise fire safety as part of Europe’s energy and housing policies.

In a letter addressed to Jørgensen, Fire Safe Europe, the European Fire Safety Alliance (EuroFSA), and FEEDS emphasised the importance of embedding fire safety into the EU’s decarbonisation and sustainability agenda.

They expressed concern that efforts to improve energy efficiency through technologies such as EV charging stations, photovoltaic panels, and battery storage systems could pose increased fire risks without proper safety measures.

The organisations stressed: “Energy-efficient buildings must be fire-safe buildings.”

Urgent need to integrate fire safety into EU policies

The letter pointed out that the integration of fire safety into energy and housing policies is critical to protecting lives, preventing economic losses, and ensuring the effectiveness of the EU’s decarbonisation efforts.

The organisations have developed a European Fire Safety Strategy, which outlines practical measures for enhancing fire safety across Europe.

This strategy has been supported by multiple MEPs, including Niels Fuglsang and Sean Kelly.

They urged Jørgensen to consider the strategy as a key component of his policy objectives, saying: “By embedding fire safety into your agenda, you will ensure that Europe’s buildings not only meet sustainability targets but are also resilient and safe.”

Collaboration offered by fire safety groups

In their letter, Fire Safe Europe, EuroFSA, and FEEDS expressed their willingness to assist the Commissioner-designate in developing policies that incorporate fire safety.

They stated their readiness to meet with Jørgensen or his team to discuss how fire safety can be integrated into his strategic objectives for energy and housing.

The letter concluded with a request for a meeting to further explore how fire safety can be made a priority, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts across Europe to ensure both sustainability and safety in the building sector.

Support from European Parliament members

The organisations pointed out that their approach aligns with the wider goals of sustainability and safety across the EU.

In particular, their European Fire Safety Strategy is supported by a broad cross-section of the European Parliament, indicating the strong political backing for integrating fire safety into the EU’s energy and housing agenda.

They concluded by urging Jørgensen to consider the strategy as part of his work and expressed their commitment to supporting his team in any capacity necessary to advance fire safety objectives.

European fire safety organisations call for fire safety prioritisation: Summary

Fire Safe Europe, EuroFSA, and FEEDS have written to Dan Jørgensen, the European Commissioner-designate for Energy and Housing, calling for fire safety to be embedded in the EU’s energy and housing policies.

The letter warns that technologies used to enhance energy efficiency, such as EV charging stations and photovoltaic panels, could increase fire risks if safety measures are not included in the EU’s sustainability efforts.

The organisations have developed a European Fire Safety Strategy supported by MEPs and offered their collaboration to help Jørgensen incorporate fire safety into his strategic priorities.

They emphasised that energy-efficient buildings must also be fire-safe buildings.

Fire safety legislation changes in England for responsible persons: report findings

Survey on fire safety awareness among responsible persons in England

The UK Home Office has published a report detailing the results of a survey conducted between July and September 2023, which aimed to understand the awareness and experiences of responsible persons (RPs) in response to recent changes in fire safety legislation in England.

The survey gathered data from 362 RPs, offering the first high-level description of the types of RPs in England, the buildings they manage, and their relationships with fire risk assessors (FRAs).

As reported by the Home Office, the findings indicate that RPs are largely aware of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations (FSER) and demonstrate a strong intention to implement the new regulatory requirements.

However, the report also highlights a need for RPs to improve their understanding of the legislative changes, particularly in terms of defining roles, competences, and training for both RPs and their FRAs.

Findings on compliance with fire safety regulations

The report suggests that the dissemination of fire safety information has been largely effective, with most RPs showing confidence in complying with FSER.

Areas such as fire door maintenance and the provision of fire safety instructions have been identified as well-handled by RPs, reflecting a commitment to upholding fire safety standards across various building types.

Nevertheless, the report notes that while RPs are aware of the regulations, there is still a need for better understanding, especially regarding the specification of roles and responsibilities.

This is seen as essential for ensuring that RPs and their fire risk assessors are adequately prepared to manage fire safety effectively.

Satisfaction levels among responsible persons with fire risk assessors

The survey results show variation in satisfaction levels among different RP groups when it comes to the quality of services provided by FRAs.

Sixty percent of RPs in the private sector and 69% in the public and third sectors expressed satisfaction with the services provided by FRAs.

However, RPs working with external FRAs reported higher satisfaction levels (71%) compared to those using in-house FRAs (48%).

These findings suggest that external FRAs may offer services that align more closely with the expectations and requirements of RPs.

The data could inform future initiatives to improve the quality and consistency of services across all sectors.

Future areas of focus for fire safety legislation implementation

While the survey results indicate that RPs are adapting to new regulations such as Section 156 of the Building Safety Act (BSA), the report emphasises the importance of providing ongoing guidance and support.

The Home Office suggests that further research could focus on a broader group of RPs to ensure comprehensive communication of fire safety legislation, enhancing compliance and overall safety for residents.

The report also highlights the importance of continuous engagement with both RPs and FRAs to better understand the effectiveness of the legislation and its real-world impact on fire safety.

Fire safety legislation changes in England for responsible persons: Summary

The UK Home Office has released a report based on a survey of 362 responsible persons (RPs) in England, which examined their awareness and preparedness in relation to recent fire safety legislative changes.

The findings suggest that RPs are largely aware of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations and are committed to complying with new regulations such as Section 156 of the Building Safety Act.

However, the report points out the need for improved understanding of roles and training for both RPs and fire risk assessors.

Satisfaction levels with FRAs varied, with external FRAs receiving higher satisfaction ratings than in-house FRAs.

The report calls for ongoing support and communication to ensure effective implementation of fire safety regulations.

QDOS marks 15 years of innovation in fire safety solutions

QDOS celebrates milestone anniversary

Rochdale-based fire safety solutions provider QDOS is marking its 15th anniversary this year.

As reported by QDOS, the company, founded by Damian Linley, has grown from a small start-up to an industry leader with a turnover exceeding £1 million annually.

QDOS is known for its high-quality fire alarm zone plans and CAD drawings.

Damian Linley, who began his career in fire safety in 1997, founded QDOS in 2009.

Noticing a gap in the market for specialised CAD departments within fire alarm companies, Linley sought to address this need.

The company’s first major project came in late 2009, creating fire alarm drawings for a county council.

Expansion and growth of QDOS

Since its inception, QDOS has grown significantly.

In 2012, the company moved to Oldham, and in 2014, Craig Slaven and Gavin Linley joined the team to support the growing business.

Further expansion continued with the hire of Joe Turner, now the operations manager, in 2015.

The company relocated to a larger office in Shaw, Oldham in 2017, and by 2021, QDOS had settled into a 2,500 sq. ft custom-designed office space.

The company reported its best financial year in 2023 and has recently launched dynamicZM, a new digital development for fire alarm zone plans.

Damian Linley reflected on the growth of his team, stating: “Seeing people who started as trainees now training new staff is incredibly rewarding.

“We have a loyal and close-knit workforce, all dedicated to maintaining the company’s values of respect and hard work.”

Launch of dynamicZM and future plans

QDOS has recently launched dynamicZM, a digital zone mimic for fire alarm systems, expanding its service offerings to various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and industrial sites.

This new solution aims to improve fire alarm zone plans and provide a more dynamic approach to fire safety.

Looking forward, the company plans to continue its growth as an independent supplier to the fire alarm industry, with a focus on expanding its offerings.

Linley hopes that QDOS will play a key role in shaping fire safety standards in the UK in the coming years.

Leadership and workforce development at QDOS

Throughout its 15 years, QDOS has been committed to workforce development, with an emphasis on training and promoting from within.

Linley emphasised the importance of his team’s loyalty and dedication, saying: “We have a loyal and close-knit workforce, all dedicated to maintaining the company’s values of respect and hard work.”

The company aims to continue developing its team and expanding its business as it looks towards the future.

QDOS is focused on maintaining its position as a leader in fire safety drawings and fire alarm zone plans, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

QDOS marks 15 years of innovation in fire safety solutions: Summary

QDOS, a Rochdale-based fire safety solutions provider, is celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2024.

Founded by Damian Linley in 2009, the company has grown from a small start-up into a leader in fire alarm zone plans and CAD drawings, with a turnover exceeding £1 million.

Over the years, QDOS has expanded its operations and launched dynamicZM, a digital solution for fire alarm zone plans.

The company is committed to continued growth as an independent supplier to the fire alarm industry and aims to shape fire safety standards in the UK.

Linley highlighted the importance of the company’s workforce and its dedication to maintaining values of respect and hard work.

India mandates fire-resistant upholstery in non-domestic furniture to enhance safety

Government introduces new fire-resistant fabric regulations

The Government of India has introduced new regulations mandating the use of fire-resistant upholstery fabrics in non-domestic furniture to enhance public safety.

As reported by the Delhi Press Information Bureau, the Quality Control Order (QCO), effective from October 2023, requires that all upholstery materials used in public spaces comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms, specifically IS 15768:2008.

The regulation applies to furniture used in places such as offices, malls, airports, restaurants, museums, hospitals, and educational institutions.

Compliance deadlines extended for imported furniture

While the QCO mandates immediate compliance for most domestic products, the Government has granted an extension for imported furniture.

Industry groups had requested leniency for imports, leading to a relaxation until 31st March 2025 for furniture or sub-assemblies containing upholstered fabric.

This extension gives importers additional time to meet the necessary BIS standards, which aim to enhance fire safety in public environments.

The regulation still holds importance as a step toward improving public safety and fire protection.

Ministry of Textiles pushes for integrated standards

The Ministry of Textiles has collaborated with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to ensure comprehensive safety regulations.

The Ministry has recommended integrating the IS 15768:2008 standard into the existing QCOs for furniture.

This integration will provide a clear framework for furniture manufacturers, ensuring that all relevant fire safety and quality standards are met.

The move is part of a broader government strategy aimed at safeguarding lives and property.

Mandatory certification ensures enhanced safety

While many BIS certifications are voluntary, the government has made compliance mandatory for strategic products such as fire-retardant upholstery.

This marks a shift in the approach to fire safety, ensuring that non-domestic furniture in public spaces meets strict safety regulations.

By making these standards compulsory, the Government of India is aiming to create safer public environments, reducing the risks associated with fire hazards in spaces frequented by the public.

India mandates fire-resistant upholstery in non-domestic furniture to enhance safety: Summary

The Government of India has mandated fire-resistant upholstery fabrics in non-domestic furniture through the Quality Control Order (QCO), which came into effect in October 2023.

This regulation applies to public spaces such as offices, malls, airports, and hospitals.

Upholstered furniture in these spaces must meet BIS standard IS 15768:2008.

While immediate compliance is required domestically, an extension until 31st March 2025 has been granted for imported furniture.

The Ministry of Textiles has requested the integration of IS 15768:2008 into existing QCOs for furniture to ensure a unified safety framework.

This compulsory regulation marks a significant move to improve fire safety in public areas.

Romanian fire safety sector expected to grow with modernisation efforts

Growing demand in Romania’s fire safety market

The Romanian market for fire prevention and extinguishing services, valued at over 500 million euros annually, continues to grow due to evolving legislation and changing business practices, as reported by Business Review (Romania).

According to Gică Tomescu, CEO of Fire & Rescue Services SRL (FIRESE), market consolidation and modernisation of services are unavoidable as demand increases.

The market is highly segmented, offering services such as fire prevention equipment installation and maintenance, and legal compliance consulting.

Businesses are required by law to ensure fire safety in public spaces and new residential buildings, ranging from small businesses to large production units.

Service costs vary significantly depending on the size and complexity of the client’s needs, from hundreds to millions of euros annually.

Services provided include installing fire extinguishing equipment, hydrants, smoke extraction systems, and fire alarm systems.

Ongoing challenges in fire safety culture and outdated equipment

Romania’s fire safety sector has historically lagged behind Western countries due to cultural and economic factors.

Western nations have consistently invested in education and technology, while Romania’s approach has been more reactive, with less emphasis on prevention and long-term planning.

This has led to tragedies and inadequate fire safety awareness.

Fire protection providers have sometimes contributed to this problem by focusing on low-cost services and equipment, leading to lower standards in safety measures.

Gică Tomescu noted a shift in recent years: “However, the last few years have seen a positive change in customer attitudes, who are now interested not only in meeting minimum legislative criteria but also in having as advanced and complete protection against fires as possible, for which they are willing to invest additionally.”

FIRESE plans national expansion in the coming years

Fire & Rescue Services SRL (FIRESE), a key player in the Romanian market, aims to increase its market share to over 25% within three years.

As part of this plan, the company will establish 24 work points by the end of 2024, giving it full national coverage.

Tomescu stated: “Given the specifics of the market, to achieve our three-year goal, namely to reach a market share of over 25% of the fire prevention and extinguishing equipment and services market, we plan to consolidate our presence nationally.”

FIRESE employs 120 people, including 70 technicians, and operates 25 maintenance laboratories alongside 24 logistic warehouses.

Plans for investment and future growth

FIRESE will invest heavily over the next year to expand its capacity and improve its services.

This includes increasing the installation and maintenance capacity for modern fire protection equipment and ensuring logistics support across all business segments in Romania.

Upon completing these investments, FIRESE intends to serve 100,000 customers by 2025, a significant increase from its current customer base of 10,000.

This growth is expected to triple the company’s turnover.

Tomescu said: “The need to accelerate the modernization and implementation of current fire prevention and extinguishing technologies is huge nationally, with most of the current equipment being outdated, inefficient, and without adequate maintenance.”

Romanian fire safety sector expected to grow with modernisation efforts: Summary

Romania’s fire prevention and safety services market, estimated at over 500 million euros annually, is experiencing steady growth driven by legislative changes and evolving business practices.

Fire & Rescue Services SRL (FIRESE), led by CEO Gică Tomescu, is positioning itself for national expansion, aiming to reach 100,000 customers and a market share exceeding 25% by 2025.

FIRESE plans to invest heavily in modernising its equipment and service offerings to meet rising demand.

Tomescu also highlighted the positive shift in customer attitudes toward comprehensive fire safety, with increasing willingness to invest in advanced protection systems.

However, challenges remain, particularly with outdated equipment and a lack of fire safety culture across the country.

Despite this, the market is expected to continue growing at 20-30% annually.

Regulator of Social Housing fire safety report reveals remediation progress on buildings 11 metres and above

Regulator of Social Housing fourth quarterly report details fire safety remediation

The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has released findings from its fourth quarterly survey on fire safety for buildings over 11 metres in the social housing sector.

As reported by The Regulator of Social Housing, all social landlords are required to provide quarterly updates to RSH and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on fire safety remediation efforts for the buildings they manage.

Out of 17,457 buildings reported, 99% had completed fire risk assessments.

Of these, 11% were found to have life-critical fire safety (LCFS) defects related to their external wall systems (EWS), while 88% showed no such defects.

11% of affected buildings are expected to have remedial work completed within the next six months, with 84% of repairs scheduled for completion in the next five years.

Landlords prioritise high-risk buildings

Some social landlords with multiple affected properties are prioritising fire safety remediation work on buildings considered higher risk.

These projects are often more complex and take longer to complete.

In the meantime, landlords are required to implement interim safety measures to protect tenants until all remediation work is fully finished.

The Regulator of Social Housing continues to monitor how landlords are progressing in their efforts to address LCFS defects.

Monitoring and regulation of fire safety

The RSH will continue its oversight of landlords’ fire safety practices, ensuring that systems and processes remain robust.

Social landlords must rely on accurate and up-to-date fire safety data to manage risks effectively and maintain tenant safety.

Will Perry, Director of Strategy at RSH, said: “This quarterly survey is an important tool in helping us monitor the progress being made by the sector on remediating fire safety defects.

“Fire safety is a fundamental responsibility, and we expect all landlords to take prompt and effective action so that tenants can feel safe in their homes.”

Landlords’ responsibilities towards tenants

Landlords are reminded of their duty to safeguard tenants’ safety while remediation work is being carried out.

Mitigating measures are required to reduce risk during the interim period, before repairs are fully completed.

Perry added: “Boards and councillors have a duty to ensure these plans are delivered.

“Meanwhile, our ongoing regulation, including our programme of inspections and responsive engagement, helps us check that landlords are meeting the outcomes of our standards – including those relating to fire safety.”

Fire safety report reveals progress on social housing buildings 11 metres and above: Summary

The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has published its fourth quarterly survey on fire safety in 11-metre-plus social housing buildings.

The report revealed that 99% of the 17,457 buildings had undergone fire risk assessments, with 11% showing life-critical fire safety defects related to their external wall systems.

Of the 1,932 affected buildings, 11% are expected to complete remediation work within six months, while 84% are due for completion within five years.

Some landlords are prioritising higher-risk properties for repairs.

The RSH will continue to monitor landlords’ progress and ensure that tenant safety measures remain in place until work is completed.

Women in Fire Safety Awards 2024

Exceptional women honoured for their contribution to the fire safety industry.

The 4th Annual Women in Fire Safety Awards took place on Thursday 12th September at the Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel in Central London.

Founded in 2021, the Women in Fire Safety Awards honours the outstanding achievements and contributions of all women within the fire safety community.

The Awards strive to address the historical gender imbalance and champion for a more progressive industry. That is why, as an organisation, WIFS aim is to continuously motivate and promote women who exceptionally improve fire safety standards.

Throughout their journey, WIFS hope to also encourage the next generation to see fire safety as an astounding career opportunity by further highlighting how varied, inclusive, diverse and rewarding the industry is as a collective.

A full report and list of the winners will be published in the coming days.

For more information about WIFS, click here.

NFCC welcomes new provision for sprinklers in all new care homes

The UK National Fire Chiefs Council has welcomed the recent announcement that sprinklers will be mandatory in all new care homes. The Government made the announcement in a Ministerial Statement published last week, with the provision being made through an update to Approved Document B, which gives guidance on building regulations relating to fire safety matters in England.

NFCC has been calling for strengthening of sprinklers requirements in care homes for many years, most recently in the updated Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) policy statement published in May.

Responding to the announcement, NFCC Lead for Sprinklers and AWSS, Jonathan Dyson, said:

“NFCC welcomes the announcement that all new care homes in England will be required to have sprinklers installed.

“The use of sprinklers in care homes reduces the likelihood of a fire spreading beyond the room of origin. This buys crucial time for evacuation and firefighting and can reduce the need for unnecessary movement of residents who may also be more vulnerable to fire due to age, mobility issues or cognitive impairments. There have been several high-profile fires in care homes across England in the last 10 years. In many of these cases there were no sprinkler systems in place and it was not possible for firefighters to fully mitigate the effects of serious fires that resulted in lives being lost, serious injury, and major property damage.

“The recent announcement recognises and addresses the serious concerns we have had about fire safety in care homes. It is a measure that the NFCC and fire and rescue services have long called for to help protect vulnerable residents and staff.”

Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program Supports Skilled Trade Education and Training in 30 North American Communities

Program supported 655 scholarships during the 2023-2024 school year and helped students kickstart thousands of careers

Johnson Controls the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, today announced renewed grants to 30 community colleges in North America as part of the companies Community College Partnership Program. Launched in 2021 to help students from historically underrepresented groups prepare for and embark on career paths in sustainable building practices, the program will, for the fourth consecutive year, provide each college a grant to support programming in HVAC, fire, security or digital fields valued up to $100,000.  

“For four years, the Community College Partnership Program has helped forward-thinking community colleges equip thousands of future leaders for successful careers in this growing industry,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “Our collaboration with these innovative institutions creates real job opportunities for students while making real progress in closing the skilled trades gap across North America.”   

Impact of the Community College Partnership Program 

During the 2023-2024 school year, the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program created significant impacts in North American communities:  

  • 3,868 students enrolled in educational programs  
  • 655 scholarships awarded to students  
  • 428 volunteer hours tracked by Johnson Controls team members 

Recipient community colleges are located in areas where the company operates, encouraging Johnson Controls employees to volunteer and share real-world experiences with students. Students have shared their appreciation for the industry exposure and mentorship, which have contributed to their academic success and career readiness. Additionally, participants have reported that the program alleviated financial stress and equipped them with essential workplace skills through coaching sessions, ultimately boosting their confidence in their job search.  

“I have gone from someone who had absolutely zero idea what an energy management controls technician does, to someone who has had the opportunity to get my foot into the industry and continue developing within my career,” said one student in the program. “The Johnson Controls scholarship grant I received when I came into the program helped me financially and served as motivation because it showed that there is a company out there that truly cares for the industry and provides that additional help to motivate individuals to pursue their careers.” 

Through the Community College Partnership Program, Johnson Controls is on track to donate up to $15 million by the end of 2026 to expand access to educational programs in the HVAC, fire, security and digital disciplines. 

To learn more about the program, including for a complete list of grant recipients, visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/corporate-sustainability/community/philanthropy/community-college-partnership