Protecting the bravest: The critical role of safety officers

by AmericasBreaking NewsSafety

Casey Jones, Special Operations Specialist at Little Rock Fire Department, looks at the critical roles of safety officers and fire department leaders in enhancing firefighter safety

The safety of firefighters is a critical concern for fire departments across the world. Firefighters face a multitude of hazards that can result in serious injury or death. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an average of 61,000 firefighter injuries and nearly 100 line-of-duty deaths occur annually just in the United States.

Firefighters face numerous hazards while performing their duties, including burns, muscular skeletal injuries, illness/disease, IDLH environments, stress, and even death. The purpose of this article is to discuss the various risks firefighters face and the measures that can be taken to enhance their safety.

Fire department safety officers play a key role in implementing industry standards for firefighter safety. These officers are responsible for developing and overseeing safety programs that protect firefighters from hazards. They must conduct risk assessments to identify hazards, develop safety protocols that address these risks, and then ensure that firefighters are trained in these protocols.

Safety officers must ensure that firefighters have access to appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which meet industry standards, including turnout gear, helmets, gloves, and breathing apparatus. They must also conduct regular safety audits to identify potential hazards and ensure that safety protocols and equipment are being properly utilised. Safety officers should also develop wellness programs that address the physical and mental demands of firefighting. The following are some ways that fire department safety officers can implement these programs and standards.

Conduct a risk assessment: The first step in implementing a safety program is to conduct a risk assessment. This involves identifying the hazards that firefighters may encounter in the line of duty and assessing the risks associated with these hazards. The results of the risk assessment will inform the development of safety protocols, training programs, and equipment requirements.

Develop safety protocols: Once the hazards and risks have been identified, safety officers must develop protocols that address these risks. This includes developing emergency response protocols, establishing physical fitness requirements, and providing mental health resources. Safety officers must also ensure that firefighters are trained in these protocols and that they are regularly reviewed and updated as needed.

Ensure appropriate PPE: Safety officers must ensure that firefighters have access to appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which meet industry standards such as those established by NFPA. This includes turnout gear, helmets, gloves, and breathing apparatus. Safety officers must ensure that this equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure that it is functioning correctly.

Conduct safety audits: Safety officers must conduct regular safety audits to identify potential hazards and ensure that safety protocols and equipment are being properly utilised. Safety audits should include inspections of facilities, equipment, and PPE. Safety officers should also conduct incident reviews to identify areas for improvement and ensure that corrective actions are taken.

Develop a wellness programme: Firefighting is a physically and mentally demanding occupation, and safety officers should develop a wellness program that addresses these needs. This may include establishing fitness requirements, providing access to exercise facilities, and developing mental health resources such as counselling and support groups. Regular physical exercise and training can help firefighters maintain their fitness levels, reduce the risk of injury, and improve their overall health.

Stay up-to-date with industry standards: Safety officers must stay up-to-date with industry standards established by organisations such as NFPA and OSHA. They should attend training sessions and conferences to stay informed about new regulations, technologies, and best practices. Safety officers should also collaborate with other safety professionals to share information and resources.

Standards and resources

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are two organisations that set industry standards for firefighter safety. These standards are essential for ensuring that firefighters are equipped with the appropriate knowledge, skills, and equipment to perform their duties safely and effectively.

In addition to these industry standards, there are several other resources available to help ensure firefighter safety. For example, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has published a guide for fire departments on preventing firefighter fatalities. The guide provides recommendations for PPE, emergency response protocols, and physical fitness requirements.

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is another organisation that provides resources and guidance on firefighter safety. The IAFF has developed a comprehensive wellness and fitness program for firefighters, which includes recommendations for exercise, nutrition, and mental health.

The Everyone Goes Home program, founded by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), provides free training, resources, and programs to champion and implement the 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives. The goal of the Everyone Goes Home program is to reduce the number of preventable firefighter line-of-duty deaths and injuries.

Industry standards and programs such as these are essential for ensuring firefighter safety. They provide comprehensive guidelines for PPE, emergency response protocols, physical fitness requirements, and mental health resources. By following these standards and utilising the resources provided by these organisations, safety officers can maximise their efforts to ensure that firefighters continue to perform their duties safely and effectively.

Safety culture

Fire department safety officers are essential in developing and maintaining a safety culture within the department. They are responsible for implementing safety standards and policies, identifying potential hazards, and developing training programs for firefighters to ensure that they are able to perform their duties safely.

Safety officers are also responsible for conducting safety inspections of fire department facilities and equipment to ensure that they are in compliance with safety regulations. They work with fire department leadership to develop safety policies and procedures, and they are responsible for ensuring that these policies are followed by all members of the department.

A safety officer’s role in promoting safety within the department goes beyond the implementation of safety policies and procedures. They also play a critical role in developing and maintaining a safety culture within the department. This means fostering an environment where safety is a top priority, and where all members of the department feel comfortable reporting safety concerns or near-miss incidents.

One way safety officers can foster a safety culture is by encouraging open communication about safety issues. This can involve holding regular safety meetings where firefighters can share safety concerns and discuss potential hazards. Safety officers can also encourage members of the department to report safety concerns and near-miss incidents so that they can be addressed before an accident, injury, or death occurs.

Safety officers can also work to ensure that all members of the department are properly trained on safety procedures and equipment. This includes providing regular training on topics such as personal protective equipment, hazardous materials, and emergency response procedures. Safety officers can also work to ensure that all members of the department are aware of the physical and mental demands of firefighting, and provide resources to support physical and mental health.

Support from leadership

Fire department leaders, including chief officers and executive staff, must provide the resources and support necessary to ensure that safety programs are effective and sustainable. They must allocate the necessary resources to support safety programs, foster a culture of safety within their organisations, provide training and education to members of the department, and establish performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of safety programs to ensure that safety protocols are coordinated and effective.

Allocating resources: One of the most important ways fire department leaders can support firefighter safety is by allocating the necessary resources to support their safety officer(s) and safety programs. This includes funding for equipment, training, and staffing. Fire department leaders should prioritise safety and ensure that adequate resources are provided to support the implementation of industry standards for firefighter safety.

Funding is critical to ensuring that firefighters have access to the appropriate tools and equipment, including apparatus. Staffing is also an important budgetary concern. Fire departments should ensure that they have adequate staffing to respond to emergencies and provide mutual aid to neighbouring communities. Inadequate staffing can lead to increased risks for firefighters and longer response times in emergencies.

Supporting safety culture: Fire department leaders should foster a culture of safety within their organisations. This involves promoting a shared commitment to safety and ensuring that all members of the department are aware of the importance of safety. Leaders should recognise and reward safe behaviours and practices, and encourage open communication and feedback regarding safety issues.

Fostering a safety culture requires the participation and commitment of all members of the department. Leaders should communicate regularly with their personnel about safety issues and encourage their participation in safety programs. Leaders should also ensure that safety is a priority in all department operations and decision-making processes.

Training and education: Firefighting is a high-risk/high-stress occupation that requires specialised skills and extensive ongoing training. Fire department leaders should ensure that all members of the department receive the training and education necessary to perform their duties safely and effectively.

Firefighting is a physically demanding job that requires a high level of fitness. Fire department leaders should ensure that members of the department receive training and education on the importance of physical fitness and provide resources to support fitness programs.

Firefighting can also be mentally demanding, with firefighters exposed to traumatic incidents and high levels of stress. Leaders should provide training and education on mental toughness and resilience. This can include providing access to counseling services and resources to support mental health.

Performance metrics: Fire department leaders should establish performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of safety programs. This involves setting goals and objectives for safety programs and regularly monitoring and evaluating their effectiveness. Leaders should use data to identify trends and areas for improvement, and make adjustments to safety programs as necessary.

Performance metrics can include measures of injury rates, response times, and equipment maintenance. Leaders should also use feedback from members of the department to evaluate the effectiveness of safety programs and identify areas for improvement.

Leaders should also engage with local government officials to advocate for policies that support firefighter safety. This can include advocating for funding for safety programs and policies that promote the health and safety of firefighters.

Fostering safety culture

Safety officers play a critical role in promoting safety within fire departments. They are responsible for implementing safety standards and policies, identifying potential hazards, and developing training programs for firefighters.

Safety officers also play a critical role in fostering a safety culture within the department, by encouraging open communication about safety issues, ensuring that all members of the department are properly trained on safety procedures and equipment, and establishing relationships with other departments and community organisations to promote safety at the local level. By working together, safety officers and fire department leaders can help ensure that firefighters are able to perform their duties safely and effectively.

Firefighting is an essential public service that requires significant physical and mental strength. To ensure the safety of firefighters, it is critical to take a multi-faceted approach that includes appropriate protective equipment, physical fitness, proper equipment maintenance and inspections, and mental health resources. By taking these steps, safety officer can help protect those who protect us and ensure that firefighters can continue to perform their critical duties safely and effectively.

This exclusive article was originally published in the June 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

New report anticipates global construction worker safety market to reach $5.6 billion by 2029

by ConstructionFeatured News

The worldwide market for construction worker safety is predicted to grow to $5.6 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.9% over the forecast period, according to a fresh report by KBV Research.

North America leads in safety innovations

North America, known for its technical firms and safety-focused clients, is a major player in the construction worker safety market. The area’s stringent safety standards and government regulations are driving this growth. In 2022, the region accounted for $881.1 million in the safety market.

Latest market strategies

To keep up with changing end-user demands, major players in the market have focused on product launches. For example, Radians released a climbing-style safety helmet, Titanium, in July 2022. The Titanium and earmuff attachment provide a dual safety solution, ensuring both head and hearing protection in moderately high-noise environments. Furthermore, Hilti introduced 30 new cordless tools to its Nuron Range in January 2023. These tools have applications in numerous industries including construction, engineering, heavy industry, interior finishing, and metalwork.

Market frontrunners and innovators

Market leaders include 3M Company, Honeywell International, and DuPont de Nemours, according to the KBV Cardinal matrix. An interesting development was the extended partnership between DuPont and veteran-led humanitarian company, Team Rubicon, in December 2022. The agreement involved providing Tyvek protective clothing, safety content, and access to safety personnel and potential volunteers. Hilti AG and MSA Safety Incorporated are noted as key innovators in the safety market.

Growth factors and restraining factors

The construction sector’s expansion, driven by increased investment in infrastructure and rising private sector investments, is propelling the safety market’s growth. Technological advancements are also contributing, with smart personal protective equipment (PPE) that can transmit real-time safety data gaining traction.

However, high costs and difficulties associated with implementing safety systems may hinder the market’s growth. Smaller businesses in low-income countries might struggle to afford the installation costs of these safety solutions.

Market outlook by application, type, and region

In terms of application, the safety market can be divided into worker body safety and workplace safety. The latter garnered substantial revenue share in 2022 due to an increase in concerns about occupational safety.

The market can also be divided by type into personal protective equipment, fall protection equipment, and safe excess equipment, with personal protective equipment holding the highest revenue share in 2022.

From a regional perspective, Europe registered the highest revenue share in the safety market in 2022, with automation and industrialisation increasing the market’s demand. Demographic changes such as variations in economic activity and income distribution are also expected to drive the market.

Recent market strategies

Recent market strategies include partnerships, product launches, and expansions. 3M teamed up with connected safety software company Guardhat in March 2023, with a view to improving safety for more frontline workers. Similarly, Hilti partnered with construction robotics company Canvas, hoping to reimagine construction work through artificial intelligence and robotics. Product launches included DuPont’s Kevlar® EXO™ aramid fibre in April 2023 and Hilti’s launch of 30 new cordless tools in January 2023.

Key companies profiled in the KBV report include 3M Company, Honeywell International, Hilti AG, MSA Safety Incorporated, DuPont de Nem. The report can be accessed here.

Pan-European fire safety efforts advance as two new research papers are published

by Featured NewsSafety

Completion of a crucial European fire safety project

In 2022, the ground-breaking European project named ‘Closing data gaps and paving the way for pan-European Fire Safety Efforts’ reached a successful conclusion. The project saw the collaboration of several consortium partners, with EuroFSA being one of the notable participants. The Netherlands Institute for Public Safety (NIPV) was actively involved in the project through their researchers, working on behalf of EuroFSA. The sub-project titled ‘Data needed for decision making’ was spearheaded by Rene Hagen.

Publication of critical research in fire technology journal

Adding to the project’s scientific contributions, two significant articles concerning the project’s results were recently published in the esteemed Fire Technology Journal. These publications join the array of project reports that have been released in recent times, further enriching the sphere of fire safety research.

Krzysztof Biskup, EuroFSA’s chair who was also a member of the project’s steering committee, expressed his pride in the contribution of the NIPV researchers. Biskup was particularly pleased with Margrethe Kobes, Mindel Leene, and Johanna Veeneklaas, the co-authors of these important scientific articles. In his statement, Biskup congratulated the trio for their significant contributions to these publications.

Aims of the pan-European project

One of the co-authors, researcher Margrethe Kobes, discussed the project in more depth: “In a consortium, we collaborated with universities and other partners from nine different countries. The aim of the project was to enable data-based decisions about fire safety and to support the member states of the EU in actions and initiatives related to fire safety and fire prevention.”

The project’s full report and the two-part publication ‘Closing Data Gaps and Paving the Way’ are available for download at the following links:

The efforts of this project have opened new doors in the realm of fire safety research, enabling data-driven decisions to enhance fire safety across Europe.

Building Engineering Services Association sets date for annual conference

by EventsFeatured News

BESA announces date and theme for the upcoming conference

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has officially announced that its upcoming sixth Annual Conference is slated for Thursday, October 12. The event is to be held at the Novotel London West, as part of an effort to unite a diverse array of professionals from within the industry.

Emphasising future-focused industry developments

The conference theme: ‘Building businesses, building the future’, is engineered to resonate with a wide range of industry stakeholders such as manufacturers, specifiers, young engineers, and those responsible for procuring building services projects. The schedule is designed to mirror the contemporary interests of these demographics, focusing on the development and future of the industry.

An insightful look at industry sectors, sponsored by leading brands

With Mitsubishi Electric as the main sponsor, the conference promises a variety of technical and thematic content catering specifically to the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration sectors. GPS Air also lends its support to the conference as a bronze sponsor.

Offering free admission with charitable intent

While BESA members and young engineers can attend at no cost, the association encourages attendees to make a small donation of £10 to the Light House Club. The charity, chosen by BESA, is dedicated to addressing mental health issues prevalent in the industry.

Comprehensive sessions designed to address key industry topics

The conference offers three unique content streams focusing on current business issues, technical aspects, and the next generation of engineers. One stream is set to tackle industry challenges like skills gap, ESG reporting, cost management, and legalities. The largest portion, the technical section, is dedicated to discussions around the industry’s key technologies and the goal of achieving safe, healthy, and energy-efficient building services. The final stream targets younger engineers, with sessions on mentoring and making businesses more attractive for newcomers.

“We never tire of pointing out that, despite the massive advances made by remote meeting systems, there really is no substitute for being ‘in the room’ when it comes to key industry events,” said BESA chief executive officer David Frise. He further stated that the conference this year would feature interactive workshops and quick ‘lightning learning’ sessions, providing delegates with actionable takeaways.

David Frise emphasised: “We understand there needs to be a very good reason for people to take time away from their busy professional lives to attend events.” The BESA chief also expressed confidence in the association’s proven track record and the trust it has gained from previous successful conferences.

Frise affirmed: “We will also be making a point of following up resolutions made during the Conference and directing people to sources of further information to help them address the many technical and commercial challenges and opportunities confronting the sector.”

Closing the conference with a celebratory event

The conference concludes with an exhibition and an evening event honouring industry achievements – BESA’s Industry Awards. Sponsored by Mitsubishi Electric, the event is set to serve as an exciting end to a day filled with industry-led discussions and insights.

Employers urged to safeguard workers amid heatwave

by Featured NewsSafety

Yellow heat-health alert spurs call for increased protective measures

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the United Kingdom’s workplace regulator, has emphasised the urgency for employers to guarantee the safety of their employees during potential periods of intense heat this summer.

In response to the first yellow heat-health alert for 2023 issued by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office, the HSE insists that employers must act to ensure the well-being of workers, particularly in the face of potentially record-breaking summer temperatures.

Call for responsibility in the absence of legal limits

Though no legally established maximum temperature for workplaces exists, the HSE is imploring employers to act responsibly. With concerns related to high temperatures nearly doubling in July 2022 and visits to the HSE’s online guidance for working in hot weather increasing tenfold, the regulator urges employers to assess risks and manage the impact of extreme weather on workers’ health and safety.

Recommended measures to mitigate heat risks

The HSE suggested a number of cost-effective adjustments that employers can make to reduce the risk of heat-related issues. These include ensuring windows can be opened or closed, using blinds or reflective film to shield workers from the sun, placing workstations away from heat sources, providing access to drinking water, and relaxing dress codes, amongst others.

The HSE emphasised the importance of educating workers about the symptoms of heat stress and how to respond should someone be affected.

Taking steps towards climate adaptation

Many companies, like Nottingham-based engineering firm CNTL Ltd, are already making adjustments to deal with the changing climate. Implementing simple measures such as switching to LED lightbulbs and offering flexible working hours have helped to keep workers comfortable.

“The heat was getting unbearable so we brought everyone together to agree what we could do,” shared Dane Rawson, Director of CNTL Ltd. He further described how the firm has begun considering additional long-term adjustments like making modifications to the roof to reduce heat absorption.

Last summer a ‘wakeup call’

John Rowe, HSE’s Head of Operational Strategy, highlighted the summer of 2022 as a critical wakeup call for employers. “Climate change means we’re likely to get hotter summers… affecting everything from health of workers to productivity on construction sites,” Rowe noted.

He urged employers to begin planning and implementing “simple and cheap measures” now to support workers in the event of extreme heat. This anticipation and preparedness is the mark of “sensible, supportive employers,” according to Rowe.

Survitec unveils remote support service for inert gas systems in the maritime industry

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

New remote support service introduced after successful pilot tests

Survitec, a global provider of survival technology solutions, has launched a new remote support service for its inert gas (IG) systems. The development follows a successful completion of pilot tests with a leading tanker operator. The Maritime Protection brand, specialising in inert gas, was the frontrunner in this new initiative.

The remote support service is set to offer a quicker access to inert gas expertise for IG system operators. It will assist in averting system failures and maintain system efficiency.

Enhanced system performance and cost reduction

Bernt Øhrn, the Managing Director of Maritime Protection, stated: “Inert gas systems are essential and complex safety systems. If they fail, it’s effectively treated as an emergency situation requiring immediate remedial action. We have developed a way of supporting our customers remotely, reducing vessel off-hire through system downtime, and cutting back on the need to send out service engineers to the ship, which can be costly.” This remote support will enable specialist IG engineers to access the system remotely for system tuning, fault diagnosis and solution arrangement.

Official unveiling at Nor-shipping event in Oslo

The remote support service, which serves as an IG monitoring, diagnostics and control service, was officially launched at the Nor-shipping event in Oslo, following successful pilot tests aboard a 40,000dwt product tanker.

The call for a remote support solution became more apparent during the Covid pandemic. Travel restrictions limited engineers’ ability to board vessels to diagnose and repair faults in situ. A prominent European-based tanker operator and long-standing Maritime Protection customer assisted in the development of the solution, which is now functioning aboard 32 product tankers.

Virtual support service to optimise safety systems

Øhrn further elaborated: “Both companies agreed that a virtual support service where our inert gas engineers could log in to access the IG system remotely, diagnose any problems and fix them immediately, without having to travel out to the ship, would not only reduce operational costs but keep this critical safety system operating optimally.”

In case of system breakdown or a situation requiring physical presence, the shore-based technicians will be able to identify the problem and provide the necessary spare parts in advance. This will cut down on the time spent onboard and ensure that the fault can be repaired in one trip.

Secure and efficient system operation

Remote Support employs a secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) gateway, which can be installed without any system wiring or modifications. This is compatible with all Maritime Protection IG and nitrogen systems. Additional security measures, such as a “key” switch, are included to quickly enable or disable remote support and internet access.

Marine Protection is offering this Remote Control as an annual fee-based leasing model. It will include crew training, spare parts for the IG system, and regular system tune-ups to reduce fuel consumption and increase system stability. Øhrn concluded by saying, “Our technicians can tune up the IG system remotely to stabilise the oxygen content, optimising fuel consumption, which can realise significant fuel cost savings for each IG system.”

Dubai Civil Defense implements new Fire Safety Standards

by Breaking NewsSafety

Lieutenant General Expert Rashid Thani Al Matroushi, Director-General of Dubai Civil Defense, unveiled the updated fire safety rules at a gathering held at Emirates Safety Laboratory

Dubai has announced new fire safety standards that will be implemented across the city. The move comes after a spate of high-rise fires in recent years, including the devastating 2017 blaze at the Torch Tower.

The new regulations, which are based on international standards and best practices, aim to improve fire safety in buildings and reduce the risk of fires. The Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) will be responsible for enforcing the new standards, which will apply to all new buildings as well as existing structures.

The new regulations require buildings to have fire-resistant cladding and insulation, as well as improved fire alarm and sprinkler systems. They also mandate the installation of smoke detectors, emergency lighting, and fire extinguishers. The standards apply to all types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Building Database

In addition to the new regulations, the DCD will also establish a database of all buildings in Dubai, which will include information on their fire safety features. The database will be used to monitor compliance with the new regulations and to identify buildings that require upgrades to their fire safety systems.

Brigadier Jamal Al Muheiri, Director of Fire and Rescue Department at the Dubai Civil Defence, said the new regulations are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security. “The implementation of these new regulations will contribute to the safety of individuals and properties in Dubai,” he said.

The new regulations have been welcomed by industry experts, who say they will help to prevent fires and ensure that buildings are safe for occupants. “These regulations are a step in the right direction to improve fire safety standards across the city,” said a spokesperson for the Dubai Real Estate Institute.

The announcement of the new fire safety standards comes as part of Dubai’s ongoing efforts to improve safety and security across the city. In recent years, the city has implemented a range of measures to enhance safety, including the use of drones to monitor buildings and the introduction of new safety regulations for public transport.

Emirates Safety Lab launched by DCD for commercial operations

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

The General Directorate of Civil Defense in Dubai has announced the launch of Emirates Safety Laboratory (ESL) for commercial operations, following the successful completion of its operational trials.

The ESL conducted its first commercial testing on the assessment of equipment and building safety systems of NAFFCO, which was officially approved by the General Directorate of Civil Defense in Dubai. NAFFCO has become the first company to receive accreditation from Emirates Safety Laboratory.

Lt. Gen. Expert Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, Director General of Dubai Civil Defense and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ESL, said that the Laboratory and Certification Body, the first government conformity assessment entities in the Middle East, have been launched as part of the organisation’s efforts to ensure the highest safety standards in the construction sector.

The ESL Laboratory uses the latest cutting-edge technology and best-in-class processes to ensure equipment used in construction comply with the high standards set in Dubai. ESL Laboratory and Certification, which have obtained international accreditation, will be the official authority to issue completion and compliance certificates for safety products in Dubai, Al Matrooshi added.

The launch of ESL will work to further enhance fire safety in Dubai and contribute to the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to transform the emirate into a global centre for clean and renewable energy by 2050.

The launch ceremony was attended by Brig. Expert Ali Hassan Al Mutawa, Assistant Director-General of Dubai Civil Defense for Fire and Rescue Affairs, and Khalid Al Khatib, CEO of NAFFCO.

Building safety campaigners call out Welsh government over lack of enforcement plan

by Featured NewsSafety

Building safety campaigners have criticised the Welsh government for not adopting UK laws protecting leaseholders.

The Building Safety Act, which will see developers in England be made to fund repairs like replacing cladding has no enforcement plan according to campaign group the Welsh Cladiators.

The Welsh government said any legislation had to be “appropriate for Wales”.

Giving evidence to the Senedd’s housing committee, Mark Thomas from the Welsh Cladiators – a group that campaigns to highlight problems with cladding and other fire safety defects – said he remained “deeply concerned about the slow rate of progress in Wales”.

“We’re getting tired. How long do we have to endure the 24/7 pressure of this issue before something is actually done to solve what is a relatively minor issue for Wales?”

Mr Thomas a:dded “The Welsh government was handed a solution by the [UK] government. It enjoyed widespread cross-party support in Westminster and was subjected to deep scrutiny.

“Sadly on 16 November the Welsh Labour government voted against fast tracking those provisions into Welsh law.

“We see that as a serious mistake.”

FDSA raises awareness of PFAS in C6 products

by Safety

The latest Fire Dept Service Announcement (FDSA) bulletin has raised the awarness of PFAS in C6 products. It said that transition should be to fire tested F3 products, nothing that several fire departments have recently sent out their F3 foams for specific sample testing for 1,4-dioxane and other chemicals. These departments have  taken the initiative to protect the public’s safety.

It noted that a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for a foam product may state it does not contain PFOA or PFOS: “Those are just two of more than 12,000+ chemicals in the persistent, bio accumulative class. Although PFOA and PFOS are no longer produced in the US, they continue to appear in PFAS testing.

“Does the F3 foam contain other carcinogenic chemicals? There are clean F3 products available now that do not contain carcinogens.

“Your firefighting foam should have a fire test rating, i.e., UL 162, NFPA 18.”

The bulletin added that the US Department of Defense quietly released the new MilSpec for firefighting foam in early January 2023: “The updated Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) FAA CertAlert 139 followed on January 12, 2023. Sea-Tac Airport recently purchased National Foam’s Avio Green which they had tested in 2019. This product contains, formaldehyde, a known carcinogen and methanol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.”