Next generation MSA Safety protective equipment appearing at FDIC

by EventsFeatured NewsPPESafety

MSA Safety presents G1 XR platform and FireGrid API at FDIC

MSA Safety is showcasing the G1 XR Edition Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and the new FireGrid Incident Command Application Programming Interface (API) at FDIC International this week.

The manufacturer is demonstrating how the G1 XR Edition SCBA addresses fireground realities by reducing weight and improving fit for the user.

This next-generation SCBA platform features adjustable lumbar pad options and updated soft goods to allow departments to customise the equipment.

The G1 XR Edition SCBA meets the requirements of the 2025 edition of the NFPA 1970 standard.

Specific design updates include simplified cleaning processes and pull straps alongside technology to support clearer radio communication.

Integration of FireGrid API for incident command

The company is expanding its connected safety offerings through the introduction of the FireGrid Incident Command API.

This technology enables the integration of G1 SCBA data directly into MSA-approved incident command systems preferred by individual departments.

Commanders gain increased insight into air pressure and movement as well as alarms and individual firefighter information.

The API facilitates the sharing of alarms via a secure cloud connection with selected software partners used for managing apparatus or hydrant locations.

Stephanie Sciullo, President, MSA Americas, said: “We know fire scenes are complex environments, and managing information overload can be a challenge.”

“As the G1 platform evolves, we are focused on delivering not only protection, but also the information that helps keep firefighters safe, accounted for, and better equipped to operate when every second matters.”

Head-to-toe firefighter protection and turnout gear

MSA Safety is also presenting its wider range of protective equipment at FDIC including Globe Manufacturing Company turnout gear and Cairns helmets.

Attendees can now order the Globe G-XTREME PRO Jacket which features a three-panel design to reduce bulk and increase mobility.

The jacket includes a mic pass-through option for wearing a radio beneath the garment and offers a broader range of fit options.

Further enhancements for the G-XTREME PRO Jacket are currently being previewed including new moisture barrier offerings and collar closure options.

These developments are part of the head-to-toe firefighter protection system being showcased at booth 2523 during the event in Indianapolis.

MSA Safety sets out seven reasons to pair gas and flame detection

by Featured NewsFire Detection

MSA Safety on gas and flame detection systems

A blog post from MSA Safety outlines how flame detection can be integrated with gas detection in industrial environments where flammable or toxic gases may be present.

The article describes gas detection systems as tools designed to identify combustible, toxic or asphyxiating gases in air and provide early warnings before conditions become dangerous.

It states that gas detection does not address what happens if a leak ignites and presents flame detection as a complementary layer that identifies the presence of fire, including in cases where gas concentration has not reached detectable levels.

Seven reasons from MSA Safety to add flame detection

MSA Safety sets out seven reasons for including flame detection within a gas detection system.

First, combining gas and flame detection is presented as a way to mitigate hazards by addressing both leaks and ignition events.

Second, flame detection is described as enabling a faster response to fire emergencies where a gas leak ignites within seconds.

Third, it is positioned as helping to eliminate blind spots where a leak occurs outside monitored zones or ignites directly.

Fourth, the blog highlights high-risk industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals and manufacturing where flammable gases may be present.

Fifth, it notes that safety regulations can require both gas and flame detection systems to meet legal and industry standards.

Sixth, early flame detection is said to support activation of suppression systems, limit fire spread and reduce equipment damage and downtime.

Seventh, integrating both systems is described as contributing to operational safety and continuity by reducing the likelihood of accidents and enabling quicker recovery following an incident.

The post also addresses perceived barriers such as cost, complexity or maintenance and states that reliance on gas detection alone may overlook how quickly a leak can escalate into a fire.

MSA Safety introduces new six-gas detector for confined spaces

by Featured NewsFire DetectionGas DetectionSafety

MSA Safety launches ALTAIR io 6 gas detector at A+A 2025

MSA Safety has introduced the ALTAIR io 6 Multigas Detector at the 2025 A+A International Trade Fair and Congress in Düsseldorf, Germany.

The company said the six-gas detector is designed for confined space monitoring and sampling applications.

It will become part of the MSA Connected Work Platform and will be the company’s first cellular-connected gas detector to include an integrated pump.

According to MSA Safety, the ALTAIR io 6 features XCell sensors, a large and clear display, and a removable rechargeable external battery.

It can be handheld or worn, depending on site needs.

The device will join the existing ALTAIR io 4 Gas Detection Wearable on the same platform.

Integration with the MSA Connected Work Platform

The company said the io 6 and io 4 share the same interface and use MSA Grid software, which allows safety managers to integrate both models into a single monitoring network.

MSA Grid can display device locations and alerts in real time, as well as provide immediate access to data from individual units or entire fleets.

The io 6 is expected to be available for order in early 2026.

Designed for industrial and confined space applications

MSA Safety stated that the io 6 is suited for use across construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, and utilities sectors.

The io 4 model supports continuous personal monitoring, while the io 6 is intended for sampling confined spaces and job sites before entry.

Dave Howells, President of MSA International, said: “Our focus is on helping to keep workers safe by developing innovative safety solutions so our customers can enhance protection, compliance, and efficiency.”

He added: “By featuring our Connected Work Platform and broad range of industrial safety solutions, we’ll give A+A attendees a hands-on experience to learn more about how MSA is using technology and data to help make it easier for workers to have the best solution for their job.”

Additional MSA products on display at A+A 2025

The company confirmed that its stand in Hall 1, Stand C42, also features a wide range of safety products.

These include V-SERIES Harnesses designed for flexibility and comfort, MSA Latchways Lifeline Systems for mobility and fall safety, and V-Gard Safety Helmets listed in the Chartered Institute of Building #PPEthatfits Directory.

Other products on display include the M1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, suitable for industrial, confined space and fire service use; the FL500-H2 UV/IR Flame Detector for Hydrogen; and the ULTIMA X5000 Gas Monitor, which supports dual sensing and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The introduction of the ALTAIR io 6 Multigas Detector could be of interest to safety officers, equipment specifiers and industrial site managers involved in confined space entry or hazardous gas monitoring.

Its cellular connectivity and integration through MSA Grid may support teams managing multiple detectors across large or complex worksites.

Fire protection contractors and facility safety engineers in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing and utilities may find relevance in the device’s sampling capabilities and integration with existing monitoring systems.

Attendees at trade events like A+A 2025 can assess its performance alongside MSA’s broader range of fall protection, respiratory and flame detection products.

MSA Safety Q2 2025 earnings and outlook

by Featured NewsSafety

Financial results and market position

MSA Safety has reported its financial results for the second quarter of 2025.

The company said the period included growth in detection and fall protection products, alongside the acquisition of M&C TechGroup to expand its presence in gas analysis and process safety markets.

President and CEO Steve Blanco said: “Our second quarter financial performance demonstrates our team’s commitment to our Accelerate strategy and creating long-term value for our stakeholders.”

Blanco added: “Although we had a difficult comparison within our broader portfolio, leveraging the MSA Business System enabled strong backlog conversion of key customer orders, and we are energized by the momentum in our growth accelerator product categories of detection and fall protection.

“Lastly, we deployed capital for the acquisition of M&C TechGroup to expand our addressable market in detection, further diversify our end markets, and create a synergistic platform for growth in the gas analysis and process safety markets.”

Capital deployment and operational investments

Interim CFO Elyse Brody said the company’s financial position supported continued investment in operations and shareholder returns.

Brody stated: “Our balance sheet remains strong, enabling us to invest in growth and return cash to shareholders through our disciplined capital allocation strategy.”

She added: “Highlights this quarter include the acquisition of M&C TechGroup, our 55th consecutive annual dividend increase, share repurchases, and a strategic footprint investment in Cranberry Township, Pa., to expand manufacturing and engineering capabilities at our detection Center of Excellence.

“We reaffirm our low-single-digit organic sales growth outlook for 2025 while actively preparing for a wide range of macro scenarios, including tariffs, industrial demand, and the timing of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) approval for our next-generation self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).”

2025 sales outlook and influencing factors

MSA Safety reaffirmed its forecast of low-single-digit organic sales growth for the full year.

The company said macroeconomic conditions and the NFPA approval timeline for its new SCBA remain factors that could influence results.

It added that the timing of industrial demand and any changes to tariff policy were also being monitored.

Use of non-GAAP measures

The company outlined its use of several non-GAAP metrics in assessing performance.

It said organic sales change excludes foreign currency effects, acquisitions and divestitures, and is intended to reflect ongoing business trends.

MSA Safety noted that adjusted operating income, adjusted EBITDA, and related margins exclude items such as restructuring costs, acquisition amortisation, and certain legal expenses.

The firm stated that these measures provide additional insight into operational performance but should be considered alongside GAAP results.

Earnings and liquidity measures

Management said adjusted earnings and adjusted diluted earnings per share are used internally to assess performance trends.

The company added that Debt to adjusted EBITDA and Net debt to adjusted EBITDA are applied in evaluating liquidity and balance sheet strength.

It noted that these calculations may differ from similarly named measures at other companies.

MSA Safety Q2 2025 earnings and outlook: Summary

MSA Safety reported Q2 2025 financial results.

The company recorded growth in detection and fall protection categories.

It acquired M&C TechGroup to expand its detection and process safety portfolio.

Capital was allocated to dividends, share repurchases and facility investment in Pennsylvania.

MSA Safety reaffirmed its low-single-digit organic sales growth outlook for 2025.

Macroeconomic conditions, tariffs, industrial demand and NFPA approval timelines remain risk factors.

Non-GAAP measures including adjusted operating income and adjusted EBITDA were detailed.

The company said these measures are used internally and may differ from other firms’ definitions.

It also tracks adjusted earnings and leverage ratios to assess liquidity.

Management stated that GAAP results should be considered alongside these non-GAAP metrics.

MSA Safety 2024 Impact Report reveals safety, emissions and inclusion strategy

by Featured NewsSafetySustainability

MSA Safety outlines global safety focus in 2024 report

MSA Safety has released its 2024 Impact Report, outlining company-wide actions to support worker protection, safety product development and sustainability.

According to MSA Safety, the report covers the company’s global performance in three focus areas: products and solutions, people and planet.

The company said the report also confirms an estimated 40 million people were protected using MSA Safety technologies in 2024.

The information was published by MSA Safety on 1 August 2025 via its corporate website.

The report highlights ongoing investment in product innovation and workplace wellbeing across the organisation.

Product development highlights include new hard hat and leak detection

The Impact Report features several safety technologies developed by the company for industrial and emergency service users.

MSA Safety said the V-Gard H2 hard hat features lateral impact protection and a vented design to improve airflow in hot conditions.

It added that the Cairns 1836 Traditional Fire Helmet includes a lighter structure, lower riding height and adjustable fit for different head types, hairstyles and headwear.

According to the company, its Bacharach Parasense Connected Enterprise Platform is designed to provide early leak detection and analytics to help reduce compliance costs.

MSA Safety said these systems form part of its wider customer support for safety, reporting and sustainability performance.

The company stated that all innovations are presented as examples of how it aims to meet changing industry and regulatory needs.

Inclusion and psychological safety included under workforce commitments

MSA Safety said it continues to invest in workplace equity and safety through its People programme.

The company said the initiative includes MSA Mosaic, a campaign focused on diversity, inclusion and psychological safety across the workforce.

According to MSA Safety, the scheme supports an environment where all team members are empowered to contribute and develop within the organisation.

It added that physical safety and inclusivity are presented as connected outcomes in the wider effort to sustain high-performance teams.

MSA Safety said this section of the report outlines how internal culture is viewed as part of its external safety mission.

Emissions target and infrastructure plans outlined in Planet section

MSA Safety confirmed that its carbon reduction strategy includes a 42 percent emissions cut in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 2030.

The company said this is aligned with a 1.5° Celsius pathway for limiting climate change impact, based on international frameworks.

According to the report, MSA Safety is investing in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure to support this target.

The company said these actions form part of its broader sustainability commitments, measured alongside product and personnel outcomes.

It added that ongoing investment in these areas will continue through 2025 and beyond.

New Impact Metric confirms reach of MSA Safety products

The 2024 report introduces the company’s new safety Impact Metric.

MSA Safety said the metric estimates how many workers are protected by its products each year.

As of 31 December 2024, the company said the number reached approximately 40 million people globally.

Stephanie Sciullo, President MSA Americas, said: “Our impact as an organization is measured by the trust we earn and the worker lives we help protect around the world.

“Every decision we make and every innovation we develop is driven by a singular focus on safety.

“That inspires us to do our best, because we know more than 40 million people count on the MSA Safety brand to help them do their jobs safely every year.

“For us, there is no better purpose than that.”

MSA Safety 2024 Impact Report reveals safety, emissions and inclusion strategy: Summary

MSA Safety published its 2024 Impact Report on 1 August 2025.

The company said the report covers performance in three categories: products and solutions, people and planet.

It said the V-Gard H2 hard hat and Cairns 1836 helmet were developed to meet evolving user safety needs.

It said the Bacharach Parasense platform enables early refrigerant leak detection and compliance tracking.

MSA Safety confirmed a 42 percent emissions reduction target for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030.

It said workplace inclusion programmes such as MSA Mosaic support an equitable and safe internal culture.

The company introduced a new Impact Metric estimating 40 million people were protected globally in 2024.

MSA and Sherbiny announce Saudi Arabia gas monitor partnership

by Featured NewsFire DetectionMiddle East - Breaking News

MSA partners with Sherbiny to assemble gas monitors in Saudi Arabia

MSA Safety has announced a new partnership with Saudi Arabia-based industrial manufacturer Sherbiny to locally assemble its General Monitors S5000 Gas Monitors.

According to MSA, the monitors will be produced at Sherbiny’s facility in Al-Khobar, which has been approved by Saudi Aramco under its In-Kingdom Total Value Add (IKTVA) programme.

The collaboration forms part of MSA’s Accelerate strategy to expand its detection business and improve regional service capacity.

Al-Khobar facility to support MSA Accelerate strategy

The company said that by enabling local assembly, it will be able to reduce delivery times, provide improved technical support, and enhance service quality for customers in the region.

Dave Howells, President of MSA International, said: “We’re very excited to have this product assembly partnership in place.”

Mr Howells continued: “The partnership aligns with MSA’s Accelerate strategy, which includes a focus on growing the company’s global detection business.

“By providing local assembly capabilities and supporting Saudi Aramco’s IKTVA program, Sherbiny enhances our ability to serve customers in the region, with faster delivery while also strengthening our technical support capacity, quality control and customer service.”

Mr Howells added that MSA will grow its service and training teams in Saudi Arabia to support the new production.

Sherbiny affirms alignment with national industrial policy

Majed Sherbiny, Chief Executive Officer for Mohammed Hassan Sherbiny for Commerce LLC, confirmed that the partnership contributes to Saudi Vision 2030 goals by increasing domestic production capacity.

Mr Sherbiny said: “At Sherbiny, our core value is customer focus, and we are dedicated to putting the customer at the center of our world.

“We are proud to be one of the premier partners for Saudi Aramco over the past 35 years, and we are thankful for them in supporting our local manufacturing initiatives that enable us to directly provide the best quality products and services that our customers deserve.”

Mr Sherbiny added: “Our partnership with MSA to locally assemble its state-of-the-art detection technologies, like the S5000 Gas Monitor, represents an exciting new phase in that partnership.

“We view the partnership as a starting point that can lead to more local assembly work over the coming years, as we are committed to fulfilling the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic development program, alongside Saudi Aramco and its IKTVA initiative.”

S5000 monitor features and regional expansion plans

The S5000 Gas Monitor includes MSA’s proprietary XCell hydrogen sulphide sensor, which uses TruCal technology to improve accuracy and reduce maintenance requirements.

The company stated that the device offers a direct replacement option for users of the previous generation of hydrogen sulphide detectors, with improved performance in high-risk environments.

Mr Howells noted that MSA has viewed the Middle East as a growth area for several years.

Mr Howells said: “This partnership represents an important, cooperative venture that enhances MSA’s ability to build a substantial fleet of fixed gas and flame detectors and related services in Saudi Arabia.

“Like Sherbiny, we welcome the opportunity to support Saudi Aramco’s IKTVA program and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program by positioning our two organizations to better meet infrastructure and worker safety needs.”

MSA and Sherbiny announce Saudi Arabia gas monitor partnership: Summary

MSA Safety announced a partnership with Sherbiny to assemble S5000 Gas Monitors in Saudi Arabia.

The monitors will be assembled at Sherbiny’s Al-Khobar facility, approved under the IKTVA programme.

The initiative is part of MSA’s Accelerate strategy to grow its global detection business.

Sherbiny’s involvement supports Saudi Aramco’s efforts to increase local manufacturing.

Dave Howells, MSA International President, said the move improves delivery and customer service in the region.

MSA will expand local training and support teams to accompany the rollout.

Majed Sherbiny said the company aims to support Vision 2030 with more local production.

The S5000 features XCell hydrogen sulphide sensors with TruCal technology.

It replaces older models and reduces total cost of ownership.

MSA stated the partnership reflects its long-term investment in the Middle East market.

MSA Safety ranks among America’s greenest companies

by Featured NewsSustainability

MSA Safety’s commitment to sustainability recognised

MSA Safety, Inc., a global leader in safety solutions, has been acknowledged by Newsweek as one of ‘America’s Greenest Companies 2024’.

This recognition comes as a first for the publication, which partnered with Plant-A Insights and GIST Impact to highlight 300 US organisations across 57 industries for their environmental stewardship and sustainability management.

The evaluation for the ‘America’s Greenest Companies’ list was extensive, considering more than 25 parameters across four categories: greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, waste generation, and sustainability data disclosure and commitments.

It assessed organisations based on public data, ensuring they met the European Union’s sustainability standards and disclosed sustainability data by July 31, 2023.

MSA Safety’s environmental targets and achievements

MSA Safety has already made strides in reducing its environmental impact by establishing a carbon reduction target aligned with a 1.5 degree Celsius trajectory.

The goal is to reduce scope one and two emissions by 42 percent by 2030, using 2021 as a baseline.

Detailed information on these initiatives can be found in MSA Safety’s 2022 Impact Report here.

Stephanie Sciullo, President of MSA’s Americas business segment, underlined the company-wide efforts to improve sustainability: “Our teams around the world are helping us improve the sustainability of MSA’s operations.”

She also pointed out the company’s investment in its future and the environment, which includes the implementation of sustainability principles in day-to-day operations.

Sciullo highlighted MSA Safety’s contribution to their clients’ sustainability efforts, citing the MSA Bacharach MGS-401 Entrance Monitor as a key tool in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

MSA Safety’s role in promoting a greener industry

The company’s accolades extend beyond Newsweek’s recognition. MSA Safety has previously been listed as one of ‘America’s Most Responsible Companies’ and was named one of ‘America’s Climate Leaders (2023)’ by USA Today.

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of MSA Safety by Newsweek reflects a broader trend in the industry where environmental responsibility is not just an optional virtue but a core component of business operations.

For stakeholders in the fire and safety sectors, such acknowledgements underline the necessity of integrating sustainable practices into their business models.

It demonstrates a growing acknowledgement that the industry must play a proactive role in addressing global environmental challenges.

MSA Safety’s initiatives serve as a benchmark for the sector, proving that implementing sustainability measures is not only feasible but also conducive to earning industry-wide recognition.

As safety professionals, the alignment of MSA Safety’s operations with environmental stewardship also resonates with the intrinsic goal of protecting lives, not just in the present but for future generations.

It is an encouraging sign that companies within this sector are taking significant steps towards reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to the global fight against climate change.

UK fire authorities choose MSA Safety’s innovative breathing apparatus

by Breaking NewsBreathing Apparatus

Major contract: MSA Safety secures $7 million deal

MSA Safety Incorporated has announced winning a $7 million contract to provide M1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and related firefighter technology to five UK Fire Authorities.

The authorities include West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority, Cleveland Fire Brigade, Hereford and Worcester Fire Service, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, and Warwickshire Fire Service.

Embracing advanced technology: The M1 SCBA

This decision was made following a comprehensive evaluation process. The focus of this process was the enhancement of firefighter safety through upgraded technology.

Nish Vartanian, MSA Safety Chairman and CEO, stated: “The M1 SCBA was designed specifically for the European and International fire services. It represents the most advanced, ergonomic and modular breathing apparatus our company has ever developed for those markets.”

New partnership: MSA Safety and UK Fire Authorities

According to Vartanian: “We are incredibly proud to establish this new partnership. We’re honoured that West Midlands and the consortium have entrusted MSA with the responsibility of protecting the men and women who keep the residents of one of the largest regions of the United Kingdom safe each day.”

Connected Firefighter technology: A crucial factor

The decision to select MSA Safety was influenced greatly by their Connected Firefighter technology.

This technology forms part of the M1 SCBA platform, which includes the MSA Entry Control Board.

This is a cloud-connected fire-ground management tool that provides Incident Commanders with the air and alarm status of all telemetry-enabled breathing apparatus on the scene.

Ensuring comfort and safety with MSA’s M1 SCBA

The M1 SCBA features the industry’s lightest-weight backplate, an advanced hip belt, and a padded harness that is fully water-repellent. These features aim to enhance ergonomics, hygiene, and firefighter comfort.

MSA Safety’s growing influence in the UK

Following this contract, four of the five fire authorities will be outfitted “head-to-toe” in MSA equipment. This comes after MSA Safety’s acquisition of UK-based Bristol Uniforms in 2021.

IFSJ Comment

This contract reflects the growing investment in firefighter safety by UK Fire Authorities. The innovative equipment from MSA Safety is set to revolutionise the way our brave firefighters operate, enhancing their protection and comfort in the line of duty.

MSA Safety announces Richard Roda as new Chief Legal Officer

by AmericasFeatured NewsPeople

MSA Safety welcomes Richard Roda as Chief Legal Officer

MSA Safety has named Richard Roda as its new Chief Legal Officer.

Roda steps into the shoes of Stephanie Sciullo, who recently became President of the company’s Americas business segment.

Richard Roda: a seasoned MSA Safety professional

With a robust 28-year stint at the company, Roda has a well-rounded knowledge of MSA Safety. His latest role was as Deputy General Counsel, Secretary, and Chief Compliance Officer.

In his new position, Roda will be in charge of the company’s worldwide legal operations and will report directly to Nish Vartanian, MSA Chairman and CEO.

Vartanian remarked on the promotion: “I am pleased to announce Rick’s promotion today, as it reflects the level of expertise he has developed throughout his MSA career.”

He added: “Rick has served as an integral leader across MSA and has helped guide our organisation through many periods of change.

“He guided efforts that resulted in the modernized legal structure that MSA has in place today. We’re excited to have Rick join our Executive Leadership Team.”

Roda’s MSA journey began in 1995, just after he graduated from Westminster College with an English degree. Starting off in Customer Service, he played many roles across sales support and product technical support.

A law degree from Duquesne University Law School in 2001 marked his transition into the company’s legal team.

Roda’s diverse roles and achievements within MSA Safety

Throughout his legal career with MSA, Roda has proven his versatility by handling roles focused on transactional, corporate legal and securities law functions.

As Chief Compliance Officer, he was the force behind the company’s ethics and compliance program.

Roda will continue to work from MSA’s global headquarters in Cranberry Township, Pa.

IFSJ Comment

This appointment signifies MSA Safety’s commitment to internal growth and stability. Roda’s wealth of experience within the company and his deep understanding of its inner workings will undoubtedly benefit MSA Safety’s legal operations on a global scale.

About MSA Safety

Established in 1914, MSA Safety Incorporated is the global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of safety products and solutions that protect people and facility infrastructures.