ALG Labels + Graphics awarded Silver Award for execution by Johnson Controls in 2024

Johnson Controls awards Silver Award for execution to ALG Labels + Graphics

ALG Labels + Graphics received the Silver Award for Execution from Johnson Controls (JCI) during the 2024 Supplier Conference.

The award recognises ALG’s extensive partnership with JCI, which has spanned over a decade.

Johnson Controls commended ALG’s reliable execution and its ability to meet the labelling requirements for JCI’s diverse range of products.

ALG was one of nine suppliers recognised with this award out of a pool of 5,000 suppliers.

Mayur Patil, Global Category Manager at Johnson Controls, acknowledged the partnership, stating: “I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the strong partnership between ALG and JCI.

“This award is a testament to our collaboration and the invaluable support you provide to our businesses.”

ALG’s role in the safety and building technology sector was highlighted by this award.

ALG’s decade-long partnership with Johnson Controls

ALG has supported Johnson Controls through labelling solutions that enhance the functionality and reliability of JCI’s products.

Steve Cramer, General Manager at ALG, expressed the company’s appreciation for the award, saying: “We are honoured to receive this recognition from Johnson Controls.

“This award is a reflection of our team’s dedication to excellence and our ongoing commitment to providing top-tier labelling solutions that meet the high standards of JCI’s life-saving products.”

ALG’s continued collaboration with JCI remains central to its operational goals in the safety industry.

Johnson Controls’ portfolio includes various life-safety and building management technologies.

The Silver Award for Execution underscores ALG’s role in supporting these critical areas, helping to ensure that products meet strict safety and quality standards.

ALG’s labelling solutions are specifically tailored to JCI’s needs, which enhances the safety and reliability of JCI’s product lines.

Recognition among industry peers at Supplier Conference

At the Supplier Conference, Johnson Controls presented a total of 21 awards in the Execution category, with ALG among the nine suppliers awarded at the Silver level.

This recognition places ALG in a select group of suppliers that meet Johnson Controls’ rigorous standards.

ALG’s high-quality labelling services are integrated across JCI’s supply chain, which includes an extensive network of over 5,000 suppliers.

The award highlights ALG’s ability to maintain quality standards while meeting the demands of a large, multinational client.

ALG’s contribution to JCI’s operations demonstrates the company’s adaptability and consistent support for JCI’s life-safety initiatives.

This acknowledgement from Johnson Controls reinforces ALG’s established role in the safety industry as a reliable labelling provider.

ALG Labels + Graphics awarded Silver Award for execution by Johnson Controls in 2024: Summary

ALG Labels + Graphics received the Silver Award for Execution at the 2024 Johnson Controls Supplier Conference.

This award acknowledges ALG’s decade-long partnership with Johnson Controls, recognising the company’s consistent support in delivering precise labelling solutions for JCI’s extensive range of products.

As one of nine suppliers to receive this recognition, ALG demonstrated its capacity to meet Johnson Controls’ high standards within a competitive supplier network of over 5,000.

The company’s contributions play a crucial role in enhancing the functionality and safety of JCI’s life-safety and building technology products.

Johnson Controls appoints Richard Lek as EMEALA Building Solutions President

Johnson Controls announces leadership change in EMEALA region

As reported by Johnson Controls, the company has appointed Richard Lek as vice president and president of Building Solutions for Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Latin America (EMEALA), effective November 4th 2024.

Lek will become a member of the Executive Committee and will oversee the execution of the company’s go-to-market strategy in the EMEALA region.

In his new role, Lek will utilise customer and market insights to identify new growth opportunities and enhance customer experiences throughout the building lifecycle.

He takes over from Marc Vandiepenbeeck, who continues to serve as executive vice president and Chief Financial Officer of Johnson Controls.

Extensive experience within Johnson Controls

Lek brings over 20 years of experience with Johnson Controls, having held multiple roles across both the field and Global Products businesses.

His deep knowledge of products, markets, and customers positions him well to lead the EMEALA region.

Prior to this appointment, he served as vice president and general manager for Continental Europe, where he achieved business growth with double-digit returns on sales, improved operational efficiency, and positive performance metrics.

CEO George Oliver expresses confidence in Lek’s leadership

Johnson Controls Chairman and CEO George Oliver said: “Richard brings a wealth of experience to his new role, building on a successful decades-long career at Johnson Controls driving business results in Europe.

“We’ve seen an improvement in our EMEALA segment as we have implemented our end-to-end operating model.

“I have every confidence that he will continue the incredible progress we’ve experienced the past two years, which included a significant improvement in profitability.”

Oliver’s remarks highlight the company’s expectation that Lek will continue to drive growth and enhance profitability in the EMEALA region.

Lek looks forward to advancing company momentum

Expressing enthusiasm for his new role, Lek stated: “I have tremendous passion for Johnson Controls and take pride in the colleagues and customers that I am privileged to work with each day.

“I look forward to continuing this momentum and building on the strong foundation already in place as we transition to a simpler, higher growth company positioned to deliver more consistent, predictable results.”

Lek’s commitment underscores his dedication to driving growth and improving results for Johnson Controls in the EMEALA region.

Johnson Controls names Richard Lek president of Building Solutions for Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Latin America: Summary

Johnson Controls has appointed Richard Lek as the new vice president and president of Building Solutions for the EMEALA region.

Effective immediately, Lek joins the Executive Committee and will lead the company’s strategy in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.

With over 20 years at Johnson Controls, Lek has extensive experience in various roles, including his recent position as vice president and general manager for Continental Europe.

He succeeds Marc Vandiepenbeeck, who continues as executive vice president and Chief Financial Officer.

CEO George Oliver expressed confidence in Lek’s ability to continue the region’s growth and profitability.

Lek has expressed his commitment to building on the company’s strong foundation and driving consistent, predictable results.

Johnson Controls begins search for new CEO

Johnson Controls to start CEO succession plan

Johnson Controls has announced the initiation of its CEO succession plan.

George R. Oliver, the current chairman and CEO, informed the Board of Directors of his decision to begin this process following the company’s progress on its portfolio transformation.

The Board has commenced a search for the new CEO with the help of a nationally recognised executive search firm.

Oliver will continue as chairman and CEO until his successor is named and will remain chair of the Board to ensure a smooth transition.

George Oliver’s tenure and achievements

George R. Oliver has led Johnson Controls since 2017.

He remarked: “It has been a true honor to serve as CEO of Johnson Controls.

“I am proud of the remarkable success we have achieved in recent years to position our company as a pure-play provider of comprehensive solutions for commercial buildings.”

Under Oliver’s leadership, Johnson Controls has undergone a significant transformation, positioning itself as a leader in smart building technologies.

Oliver expressed confidence in the company’s future and commitment to supporting the team during the transition.

Board refreshment efforts

In conjunction with the CEO succession plan, Johnson Controls has appointed Patrick Decker to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Decker, the retired president and CEO of Xylem Inc., brings extensive experience in transforming industrial products companies into advanced technology enterprises.

Jürgen Tinggren, Johnson Controls’ lead independent director, commented on Decker’s appointment: “Patrick is a fantastic addition of a world-class executive with experience transforming Xylem from an industrial products company to an advanced technology, services and solutions enterprise.”

Comments from stakeholders

Marc Steinberg, Partner at Elliott Investment Management, one of Johnson Controls’ largest investors, expressed support for the recent changes: “We believe the leadership and board actions announced today, along with the recent portfolio changes, position the company to realize the benefits of its transformation, enhance operational performance, and drive shareholder value creation.”

Steinberg acknowledged the productive discussions with Oliver and his team, emphasizing that Johnson Controls is well-positioned to capitalise on future opportunities.

Johnson Controls launches Global Data Center Solutions Unit

New dedicated Global Data Center Solutions Unit

Johnson Controls has announced the formation of a dedicated Global Data Center Solutions organisation.

This new unit aims to leverage Johnson Controls‘ global scale to provide integrated solutions for data center customers worldwide.

The initiative will support the company’s business segments, with Todd Grabowski appointed as president of the Global Data Center Solutions organisation.

He will report directly to Chairman and CEO George Oliver.

George Oliver commented on the initiative: “Over the last few years, we have been investing and building momentum in the data center market to establish Johnson Controls’ leading position.

“It is clear our offering is resonating with customers, and we are now taking further steps to capture the growth opportunity ahead of us.”

He added that Todd Grabowski and his team will focus on providing a full suite of smart building technologies to meet increasing demand and drive Johnson Controls’ continued growth.

Johnson Controls’ strategic offerings for data centers

Johnson Controls’ products and solutions are widely used in high-demand data centers globally.

The company offers a unique portfolio of integrated solutions designed to minimise costs, maximise efficiency, and optimise operations for data center owners.

Their strategic advantages include advanced technologies in air-cooled and water-cooled chillers, substantial investments in research and development, and extensive domain expertise to deliver comprehensive solutions.

Johnson Controls’ approach involves designing, building, and testing equipment in world-class laboratories to accelerate innovation.

Todd Grabowski highlighted the company’s focus on solving customer problems: “Solving customer problems today and in the future is what we do best at Johnson Controls.

“We have optimised our investments and solutions to ensure we are uniquely qualified to provide the differentiated outcomes data center customers need and expect from an industry leader like Johnson Controls.”

Leadership and experience of Todd Grabowski

Todd Grabowski brings over 30 years of experience at Johnson Controls to his new role as president of the Global Data Center Solutions organisation.

Previously, he served as vice president and general manager of HVACR, a portfolio he will continue to lead.

Grabowski holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Michigan State University.

He emphasised the importance of Johnson Controls’ global reach and service offerings: “Our global footprint allows us to scale and deploy these solutions wherever they are needed and earn long-term connection with those customers through our unparalleled service offerings.”

Johnson Controls introduces new evacuation alert system for high-rise buildings

The FireClass evacuation alert system designed for improved safety and compliance in the UK

  • A robust system offering enhanced evacuation capabilities

Johnson Controls, a renowned name in creating smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, has recently launched the FireClass evacuation alert system.

The system aims to offer fire and rescue services an uncomplicated, user-friendly method to initiate an evacuation signal in high-rise structures.

This becomes especially pertinent for residential high-rise buildings in the UK as it aids compliance with the recently implemented BS8629:2019 code of practice.

This code necessitates the use of sounders or similar devices to alert inhabitants in case of an emergency and direct them safely out of the building.

“Swift and controlled evacuation is paramount when it comes to fire safety,” Tony Gryscavage, director of Product Management, Fire Detection Products, at Johnson Controls noted.

Recent incidents in London have highlighted the urgent need for re-evaluating evacuation protocols in heavily occupied buildings.

“London alone houses 80,000 high-rise buildings, with many more planned for construction across the UK.

The right technology is crucial in ensuring the safety of individuals living and working in these buildings,” Gryscavage added.

The FireClass evacuation alert system is intended to guide a safe and controlled evacuation using a zoned communication system.

It includes individual toggle switches that let the operator methodically activate and cancel the sounders to each floor.

The indicators further enable operators to confirm the sounders on each floor are functioning correctly.

As evacuation is initiated, LED identifiers located on the exterior of the panel show the status and power availability within each zone.

FireClass evacuation alert system: facilitating multiple building zones

The FireClass evacuation alert system features a two to four-loop power system that can support up to 16 building zones.

This system can be expanded by connecting with the FC-EAS-BB evacuation alert system black box panel or additional FireClass evacuation alert system panels.

Access to the panel is protected by a unique key to ensure operation is permitted only to first responders.

The system offers a straightforward user interface, which promises quick and intuitive operation during critical moments.

Safety and performance are further enhanced with the support of EN 54-24 certified speakers, sounders, and power supply equipment.

This evacuation alert system operates independently from the fire detection system.

This means it can be installed alongside new or existing fire detection systems within both new construction and retrofit buildings.

A highly durable exterior casing helps prevent tampering and keeps the system protected and ready for when it is needed most.

For more information about the FireClass FC-EAS Evacuation Alert System, visit fireclass.co.uk.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the FireClass evacuation alert system marks a significant advancement in the field of building safety. It is particularly timely in light of the updated BS8629:2019 code of practice in the UK.

The system’s simplicity of operation for first responders, and its capacity to work independently from existing fire detection systems, make it a highly versatile and valuable tool in the quest to enhance safety in high-rise buildings.

Johnson Controls launches fire detection solution for small businesses

A fresh addition to Johnson Controls’ Fire Detection Line

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

FireClass Essential Panel: Affordable, straightforward, and reliable

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

Key features of the new FireClass Essential Panel

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

Versatile model options with compatibility across FireClass devices

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

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

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

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

Johnson Controls enhances fire suppression portfolio with Rescue Air Systems

Johnson Controls, a global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, has announced that it acquired Rescue Air Systems, a leading provider of firefighter air replenishment systems (FARS) that enable firefighters to refill breathing air bottles within a building during responses.

FARS stations are designed to replenish firefighters’ air bottles in less than two minutes using a building-installed air standpipe system. FARS provide firefighters with quick access to a safer, more constant and more dependable source of breathing air inside a compromised structure in an emergency.

Rescue Air Systems, based in San Francisco, will add to Johnson Controls’ comprehensive portfolio of fire suppression products and solutions including fire sprinkler system products; foam agents and hardware; and special hazards products.

Anna Khanova, vice president, global product management, Johnson Controls fire suppression products, commented: “We are committed to providing the best and most complete fire protection systems in the industry.

“This equipment allows us to better serve a rapidly growing safety vertical and comply with jurisdictions where FARS are increasingly required by code. As we help improve fire protection in buildings, our customers will benefit from a single, trusted source for residential and commercial fire suppression solutions as well as specialty applications.”

Anthony Turiello, RescueAir CEO and founder, commented: “When we started RescueAir almost 30 years ago, our goal was to make the world a safer place by equipping buildings and other large structures with firefighter air replenishment systems.

“With this acquisition, Johnson Controls will help us realize that vision on a global scale, and we’re excited our product will join their unique suite of fire suppression and safety offerings to better serve our customers.”

Johnson Controls acquires UK’s Xcell Misting

Johnson Controls has acquired Xcell Misting Ltd, an expert fire protection company that designs and installs fire suppression and detection systems. Xcell Misting Ltd specializes in water mist technologies.

The acquisition will benefit Johnson Controls’ customers from Xcell’s expertise within fire protection and security, with access to the latest fire suppression technologies. Xcell Misting operates in a multitude of different sectors that include food, technology, data centers, high-hazard and gas turbines, car plants, residential, and waste management.

Xcell is headquartered in Norfolk, UK and employs fire professionals, engineers, installers and managers to design and deploy fire protection systems across the UK, along with providing support 24/7.

Sarah Dixon, general manager fire suppression UK and Ireland, Johnson Controls said: “Xcell Misting’s specialist watermist capabilities will allow us to maximise on our watermist opportunities, and in turn expand our current suppression offering to our customers.

“With a well-deserved reputation for the strong levels of customer care and expertise, we look forward to working with Xcell Misting Ltd’s talented team and welcoming them to the Johnson Controls family.”

In addition, Xcell Misting’s owners Kevin Musk, Andy Cooke and Deborah Bingham said: “This is a fantastic moment for all, including our employees who will to be part of a larger group with its associated opportunities and our customers who will continue to benefit from the best quality products and the best service at the best price. Xcell Misting will continue to thrive within Johnson Controls and the envisaged growth will be one that we can all be proud of as we move forward together.”

Johnson Controls unveils advanced smoke detection technology

Johnson Controls has introduced advanced smoke sensors built upon the established performance of its flagship TrueAlarm technology that is designed to meet 2021 UL standards.
The latest updates to UL 268, Standard for Safety of Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems, call for significant improvements to smoke detection technology.
Set to take effect in June 2021, the new UL 268 seventh edition standard requires smoke sensors, detectors and smoke alarms to pass more than 215 new or revised performance tests, including three new challenging tests: a cooking nuisance alarm test, a flaming polyurethane foam test and a smoldering polyurethane test, said the statement from Johnson Controls.
To satisfy these requirements, the smart and sustainable buildings specialist has introduced advanced smoke sensors built upon the established performance of its flagship TrueAlarm technology.
The UL 7th edition polyurethane tests better represent the type of smoke and flames produced in modern building fires due to the increased use of synthetic furnishing materials that can ignite and burn faster than other materials, said the statement.
The cooking test was added after research showed people frequently disable smoke alarms due to nuisance alarms caused by cooking and shower steam, it added.
The new TrueAlarm sensors provide earlier detection, better fire type recognition and fewer nuisance alarms. They use sophisticated algorithms to analyze particles and determine whether they are generated by an actual fire rather than smoke or steam from cooking.
Sensor alarm points can be programmed for timed, multi-stage operation per sensor. A lower percentage alert can cause a warning prompt to investigate the issue while a higher programmed percentage will initiate an alarm.
“The design of our new sensors is based on decades of fire detection experience and demonstrates our commitment to creating the most innovative and reliable products in the industry,” remarked Peter Ryan, senior commercialization manager, Global Fire Detection Products, Johnson Controls.
“These re-designed smoke sensors reduce the number of nuisance alarms while providing early notification, when needed, to help building occupants evacuate quickly and safely during a fire event,” he added.
Johnson Controls said the ability of the redesigned TrueAlarm sensors to intelligently differentiate between high-risk fires and burning food or steam is especially important for commercial spaces such as hotels, dormitories, hospitals and other facilities that are prone to nuisance alarms.

Smart elevated skin temperature scanning solutions from Johnson Controls

The safe return of occupants to buildings requires strategies for controlling disease transmission, providing a safe work environment for employees while maintaining healthy business operations. Johnson Controls believe there is nothing more important than the health, security and safety of individuals in a working facility and current events have made securing facilities more complex than ever.

Thermal imaging systems have quickly become an important tool in the detection of elevated skin temperatures, a potential indicator for the presence of contagious individuals. A rapid diagnostic tool, thermal cameras can provide commercial buildings with a quickly scalable and highly efficient means of scanning building occupants. The thermal camera passively scans employees and visitors as they enter your building so as not to impede operations. If an elevated temperature is detected, a local team is alerted for further secondary assessment.

This solution is ideal when the need to minimise human contact is essential. Secondary screening with a thermometer
is required to verify an elevated temperature. Having this solution and the appropriate procedures in place will give
your employees and visitors peace of mind.

Elevated Skin Temperature Scanning

Johnson Control’s goal is to deliver a solution that helps to enhance facility efficiency and occupant safety, wellness and productivity. The image sensor with thermal detector paired with a black body calibration accurately scan a person’s forehead to detect elevated skin temperatures to within +/-0.3°C or +/-0.5°F.

Sophisticated software analytics evaluate employees and guests as they passively enter the camera’s field of view. The
system is capable of scanning 30 people per minute, one person at a time, in accordance with FDA guidelines.

The passive nature of the scanning results in reduced manual effort, reinforces social distancing between individuals and protects your employees charged with monitoring the system. The system can be setup with wall, ceiling
or a tripod mount. The configuration can be designed for portability for maximum flexibility or integrated to work seamlessly with your existing building systems. Event triggers can be customized to alert locally and remotely.

Smart facial temperature detection ties individual skin temperature, live video, and a built-in sound-light alarm. Elevated
temperature anomalies trigger an alarm to signal to your local team to take appropriate action. Powerful analysis tools also contain video-based analytics for perimeter protection (line crossing, region entrance, exit or intrusion), as well as blaze and smoke detection.

www.johnsoncontrols.com