Dozens of organisations have urged the UK government to abolish permitted development rights for office-to-residential conversions, citing the loss of affordable homes and concerns over fire safety.
Fire Aware CEO calls for cultural change in fire sector
Gavin Skelly, Chief Executive of Fire Aware, has urged a cultural shift in the fire sector to improve safety standards in the built environment.
Pye-Barker acquisition expands safety services in Kentucky
Pye-Barker completes acquisition of Modern Systems
Pye-Barker Fire & Safety has confirmed the acquisition of Kentucky alarm and security company Modern Systems.
According to Pye-Barker, the deal extends its fire protection and life safety coverage across the state by adding full fire code compliance and security support for new communities.
The company said Modern Systems has operated in Kentucky for more than 45 years.
It added that the team has delivered customised and integrated security solutions for businesses and residential customers throughout the state.
Modern Systems’ service history in Kentucky
Pye-Barker explained that Modern Systems was founded in 1979 by David Morris, who remains the company’s president.
It said the business has developed a wide range of offerings including fire alarms, intrusion detection, video surveillance access control and licence plate identification systems.
The group added that its systems are supported by AI analytics and 24/7 monitoring.
It noted that Modern Systems also provides annual inspections and maintenance services.
According to Pye-Barker, these activities are intended to ensure the protection of lives and property.
Technology and leadership approach
Pye-Barker said Modern Systems’ use of AI tools has been an important part of its strategy.
It added that this approach reflects the forward planning of the company’s leadership team.
The organisation commented that David Morris has directed the company through multiple decades of expansion in services, technologies and markets.
Morris said: “Aligning with the Pye-Barker team opens new doors to achieve our mission of widespread safety in Kentucky.
“I am without a doubt that Pye-Barker is the perfect team to enhance what we have built at Modern Systems, thanks to their steadfast dedication to community safety and internal family culture.
“I’m excited and inspired to continue our work serving Kentuckians together.”
Pye-Barker comments on integration
Bart Proctor, CEO of Pye-Barker, said: “Modern Systems has been on the cutting edge of new security and safety technology for four decades.
“Integrating the team into Pye-Barker allows us to push innovation forward and ensure fire and life safety is constantly being optimized across the nation.”
The company stated that the acquisition is intended to bring additional resources and national support to the Kentucky-based team.
It added that Modern Systems will continue to operate with its existing staff in place.
Transaction details and representation
Pye-Barker confirmed that Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP represented the company in the transaction.
It added that the legal firm supported the process through to completion.
The company noted that Modern Systems’ customers will continue to be served without disruption following the deal.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The acquisition adds another regional provider to Pye-Barker’s nationwide network of fire protection and security companies.
For fire and safety professionals, the deal reflects consolidation trends in the US sector, where larger companies are expanding through the acquisition of long-established regional specialists.
It also highlights the growing role of AI-enabled monitoring and analytics in fire and security systems.
Professionals may note the emphasis on continuity of service, with Modern Systems’ existing workforce retained to support Kentucky customers.
Pye-Barker acquisition expands safety services in Kentucky: Summary
Pye-Barker Fire & Safety has acquired Kentucky-based Modern Systems.
Pye-Barker said the deal expands its fire and life safety coverage across the state.
Modern Systems was founded in 1979 by David Morris.
The company provides fire alarms, intrusion detection, video surveillance and licence plate identification systems.
It also offers AI-supported analytics and 24/7 monitoring.
Modern Systems performs inspections and maintenance services for customers.
David Morris said the partnership will extend safety across Kentucky.
Pye-Barker CEO Bart Proctor said the integration will support innovation.
Modern Systems will continue operating with its existing workforce.
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP represented Pye-Barker in the deal.
Safety concerns grow as violence against health workers increases
Rising violence against NHS nurses
IOSH has reported that attacks on Accident and Emergency nurses in England have almost doubled over the past six years.
According to the organisation, figures from the National Health Service (NHS) show that violent incidents rose from 2,122 in 2019 to 4,054 in 2024, representing a 91 per cent increase.
The Royal College of Nursing has reported that cases include nurses being punched, spat at, threatened with acid, and pinned against walls.
IOSH noted that these reports have prompted concern over whether frontline health staff are being adequately protected at work.
It added that recent measures such as issuing stab vests and employing security staff show the extent of the risks facing workers.
A global workplace safety issue
IOSH stated that violence against health workers is not limited to the United Kingdom.
It cited research published in EClinicalMedicine that shows workplace violence in healthcare settings continues to rise worldwide despite decades of prevention measures.
The study reported that abuse against health workers includes physical attacks, verbal aggression and sexual harassment, with prevalence rates varying by region but remaining high overall.
The organisation explained that some incidents are linked to medical conditions, such as patients emerging from seizures or low blood sugar episodes.
It said the greater concern comes from unprovoked acts, such as aggression from frustrated patients or relatives.
Government and policy responses
IOSH reported that the UK health secretary recently condemned the rise in violence, stating: “Nurses dedicate their lives to helping others and deserve to go about their jobs free from violence or intimidation.
“Anyone who violates this core principle will feel the full force of the law.”
IOSH noted that while government statements acknowledge the scale of the problem, it sees such responses as reactive rather than preventative.
The organisation explained that prosecutions occur after harm has taken place, whereas a proactive approach is needed to reduce risks before incidents happen.
It added that policy makers should consider systemic pressures such as long waiting times and missed appointments that may escalate aggression.
IOSH recommendations for safety professionals
IOSH said that safety and health professionals have a duty to recognise workplace violence as an occupational hazard and apply the same prevention principles as they would for other risks.
The organisation advised that risk assessments should include psychosocial hazards such as aggression, which are often under-rated in workplace safety reviews.
It recommended the adoption of zero-tolerance policies, with clear procedures supported by staff training and public communication in hospitals.
It explained that conflict management and de-escalation training can also support staff in high-pressure environments such as emergency departments.
IOSH further highlighted the need to avoid lone working in areas where aggression is more likely, and to provide reliable alarm systems for raising alerts when staff are at risk.
Impact on health workers
IOSH reported that the consequences of violence extend beyond physical harm.
It said affected staff face increased risks of stress, burnout and mental health problems, which contribute to staff leaving the profession.
The organisation explained that the wider system impact includes staff shortages, reduced capacity in health services and longer waiting times.
It added that debriefing sessions after incidents can help staff address trauma, but preventative measures remain essential.
IOSH also noted that research into effective prevention methods requires further funding.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
IOSH explained that workplace violence should be managed with the same structured approach used for other hazards across all high-risk industries.
It said lessons from healthcare apply to any sector where staff face unpredictable public interactions.
For fire and safety professionals, this includes developing robust risk assessments, enforcing clear policies and ensuring rapid response systems are in place.
The organisation added that integrating psychosocial hazards into workplace safety frameworks is essential to protecting workers across different settings.
Safety concerns grow as violence against health workers increases: Summary
IOSH has reported that attacks on NHS Accident and Emergency nurses in England rose by 91 per cent between 2019 and 2024.
The organisation cited NHS data showing incidents increased from 2,122 in 2019 to 4,054 in 2024.
The Royal College of Nursing has confirmed cases of physical assaults and threats against staff.
IOSH noted that violence against health workers is also a global problem.
Research published in EClinicalMedicine shows that violence in healthcare settings continues to increase worldwide.
The UK health secretary has said that offenders will face legal consequences.
IOSH stated that prosecutions are reactive and do not prevent incidents.
It recommended proactive measures including risk assessments, zero-tolerance policies and staff training.
The organisation added that workplace violence has long-term effects on health worker wellbeing and service delivery.
IOSH reported that funding for prevention research remains limited.
Is overheating the UK’s next building safety crisis?
UK overheating identified as urgent safety issue
The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has called for action to address overheating in UK buildings.
BESA said longer and hotter summers are exposing more people to health risks linked to heat stress and poor building resilience.
The Met Office confirmed this summer has been the sunniest and driest on record.
It said daily temperatures have remained above average for 79 consecutive days.
Imperial College London researchers estimated 263 heat-related deaths occurred in London during June.
BESA stated overheating must be recognised as a building safety issue as vulnerable groups face greater risks.
Heatwave effects across England
Friends of the Earth (FoE) reported that nearly 5,000 neighbourhoods in England now experience regular heat stress.
FoE said these areas cover about a third of the country and include more than 1,000 hospitals.
The group explained that over 10,000 nurseries and care homes are also within these neighbourhoods.
It warned that vulnerable people are at heightened risk of harm from extreme heat.
FoE predicted that the UK could face over 10,000 heat-related deaths annually by 2050.
The organisation urged the government to update its climate adaptation plans to include the impact of heatwaves.
Technical solutions for cooling buildings
Kevin Morrissey, technical director at BESA, said: “There are multiple technical solutions available, including both passive and mechanical cooling systems.
“However, to ensure these reach the most vulnerable in our society cooling must now become a central part of the UK’s push to decarbonise the built environment, which continues to focus primarily on how we heat buildings.
“Adapting the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) to support wider adoption of heat pumps that provide cooling in summer as well as heating would be a positive and easy first step.”
BESA explained that integrating cooling measures into decarbonisation policy would improve resilience.
The Association said this would help balance energy efficiency goals with occupant safety.
Overheating and building safety regulation
BESA advised that overheating should be included in the wider building safety framework.
It said the addition of fire-resistant insulation materials often increases overheating risks.
The Association explained that this must be offset with better ventilation and cooling strategies.
Morrissey said: “Overheating is the most overlooked building safety issue.
“Improving insulation to reduce heat loss and protect occupants from fire is extremely important, but in many cases, this is exacerbating growing health problems caused by poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and condensation by raising temperature and humidity and reducing air change rates.”
BESA indicated that insulation and ventilation must be addressed together to avoid new health risks.
Rising demand for cooling systems
BESA, which manages the UK’s largest refrigeration and air conditioning registration scheme REFCOM, reported rising demand for residential cooling.
The Association said demand for heat pumps and domestic air conditioning is increasing as summers lengthen.
It explained that these systems can improve comfort and health but must meet technical and legal standards.
Morrissey said: “There is always a risk with any growth market that it attracts the wrong kind of commercial interest.
“We are seeing a surge in demand for heat pumps and for domestic cooling systems, but these need to be properly designed and appropriate for each project.
“People need to be properly qualified and registered to handle refrigerant gas and to install cooling equipment. There is a ‘cowboy’ element out there who could do untold damage to this industry and put both the environment and the public at risk of harm, if regulations are not properly enforced.
“The Building Safety Act is beginning to make its presence felt and is driving more responsible behaviour across the construction sector by focusing heavily on competence and compliance. The role of cooling needs to receive a similar level of scrutiny to ensure it can play its part in keeping building occupants safe and healthy.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
BESA highlighted how overheating interacts with wider building safety issues.
The Association linked insulation upgrades to higher indoor temperatures when ventilation is not included.
Fire and safety professionals may need to adapt inspection and compliance processes to reflect overheating risks.
BESA’s call for regulation indicates overheating must be treated as part of building safety planning rather than a separate matter.
Overheating risks prompt UK building safety call: Summary
The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has called for urgent action to address overheating in UK buildings.
The Met Office reported this summer has been the sunniest and driest on record with 79 consecutive days of above-average temperatures.
Imperial College London researchers estimated 263 excess heat-related deaths occurred in London during June.
Friends of the Earth (FoE) said nearly 5,000 neighbourhoods in England now face heat stress affecting hospitals, nurseries and care homes.
FoE predicted the UK could face more than 10,000 heat-related deaths annually by 2050.
BESA technical director Kevin Morrissey said cooling must become central to decarbonisation policies and suggested adapting the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
BESA said overheating should be considered a building safety issue as insulation materials can increase indoor heat risks.
The Association noted growing demand for domestic cooling systems must be managed to meet technical and legal standards.
BESA manages the UK’s largest refrigeration and air conditioning registration scheme REFCOM.
It warned unqualified installers could increase risks to public health and the environment.
New UK guide challenges how the construction industry chooses its products
Industry bodies collaborate on new construction product safety guide
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has released a new publication providing advice on the safe use of construction products in the UK.
According to CIOB, the Guide to Products Critical to Safe Construction has been developed with support from the Construction Products Association (CPA), the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
The guide is aimed at designers, specifiers and installers and sets out how to determine whether a product is critical to safe construction.
CIOB stated that the guide includes examples and case studies that reference existing industry standards, including the Code for Construction Product Information.
The publication is available free of charge in electronic format.
Background from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry
CIOB explained that the Grenfell Tower Inquiry identified failings in the UK’s construction product regulatory regime.
It said that the Inquiry found that the system did not ensure that products used in buildings were safe when used alone or as part of a wider system.
The organisation noted that the Inquiry’s findings were followed by further reports, including Building a Safer Future: Final Report and the Independent Review of Product Testing and Certification (the Morrell-Day Review).
According to CIOB, these reports recommended stronger regulation of manufacturing, testing and product supply.
It added that the UK Government published the Construction Product Reform Green Paper in February 2025, setting out proposals for a system that ensures safe products are safely used.
CIOB statement on the new guide
Paul Nash, Chair of CIOB’s Quality Implementation Group, said: “The outcomes of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry exposed a construction product regulatory regime that was failing to ensure that the products used in buildings, whether separately or part of a system, were safe.”
“In February 2025, the government published a Construction Product Reform Green Paper that sets out its proposals to deliver a system that guarantees safe products, safely used.
“It is against this backdrop that the CIOB, together with other professional bodies, has developed this Guide to Products Critical to Safe Construction to ensure the buildings we create, and the products we use in those buildings, are safe for those who use them, now and in the future.”
Guidance content and intended use
According to CIOB, the guide is intended to help industry professionals make informed product selection decisions.
It said the publication contains examples and case studies showing best practice in the assessment and selection of construction products.
The organisation explained that the guidance can be applied to products that are safety-critical whether they are used individually or as part of a system.
It added that the material is relevant across multiple building types and project scales.
CIOB stated that the guidance has been authored by Lorna Hagan, Civil Engineer and Chartered Quality Practitioner for Construct Tuition, and Chris Miles, Lead Assessor for the Code for Construction Product Information.
Comments from collaborating organisations
Chief Executive for CCPI, Amanda Long, said: “Whilst the guide has been developed against the backdrop of an emerging regulatory regime for construction products, its purpose is to support industry to act now to help to ensure that buildings are safe for those who use them, now and in the future.”
Duncan Johnson, Deputy Director, Construction Products Regulation, Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), added: “I welcome the collaborative efforts behind this guide, which brings together expertise from across the built environment sector to support safe and compliant construction, underpinned by clarity and consistency in product information.
“This guide contributes to raising standards and improving safety across the construction industry.”
Availability and access
CIOB confirmed that the guide is only available electronically.
It said that the digital format ensures accessibility for a wide range of users.
The organisation added that the free availability of the guide is intended to support adoption across the construction sector.
It stated that the resource can be accessed via CIOB and partner organisation websites.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The guidance addresses the safety of construction products, which directly impacts the fire safety performance of buildings.
It sets out methods for identifying products that are critical to safety, including those used in fire protection systems.
The publication aligns with wider regulatory changes following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, which included fire safety considerations in its recommendations.
Fire safety professionals may use the guide to support compliance assessments, specification processes and procurement decisions.
CIOB publishes UK guide to products critical to safe construction: Summary
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has released the Guide to Products Critical to Safe Construction.
The guide was developed in collaboration with the Construction Products Association (CPA), the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
The publication aims to help designers, specifiers and installers identify safety-critical construction products.
It includes examples and case studies showing industry best practice.
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry identified failings in the UK’s construction product regulatory regime.
Further reports, including the Morrell-Day Review, recommended stronger regulation.
The UK Government published the Construction Product Reform Green Paper in February 2025.
Paul Nash of CIOB said the guide supports the creation of safe buildings.
Amanda Long of CCPI and Duncan Johnson of OPSS welcomed the guide.
The resource is free and available electronically.
Authentic leadership training supports long-term safety culture goals
Bahrain refinery invests in leadership to strengthen safety culture
NEBOSH has reported that Bapco Refining is training leaders to promote authentic leadership as part of efforts to strengthen its safety culture.
The organisation said the programme aims to create a workplace environment that encourages open communication, psychological safety, and shared responsibility for health and safety.
Andy Shenstone, NEBOSH Chief Executive, said: “Truly exceptional safety requires that people don’t just follow procedures, but that they are empowered to speak up when issues arise, so they can be corrected and lessons learnt.”
He added: “And to make that happen, we, as leaders, need to be champions of the safety-centric mindset and create a psychologically safe environment.”
Bapco Refining, part of Bapco Energies, has set five leadership principles for managers: Brave, Ambitious, Progressive, Conscious and Open.
According to NEBOSH, these are based on research by Barry Posner and James M Kouzes and are intended to encourage authenticity and remove barriers that stop employees raising safety concerns.
Core leadership principles and training structure
NEBOSH said the leadership principles are embedded into training from the induction stage for anyone with management responsibilities.
Managers attend workshops and webinars on the principles and visible leadership practices.
Training sessions are designed to develop emotional intelligence, promote empathy, and strengthen safety through improved communication.
The company stated that in 2024 around 2,442 employees attended more than 190 sessions, with 46 sessions completed by May 2025.
Line managers also receive mental health awareness training and act as mental health champions, with 600 staff set to qualify in mental health first aid.
Psychological safety and organisational performance
Shenstone said: “Psychological safety has the potential to really ‘level up’ an organisation’s performance. Dr Amy Edmondson’s research discovered that teams with better outcomes admit more mistakes; they can learn, share ideas and make better decisions as a result.”
He added: “This concept is universally applicable across all business functions, but it is particularly crucial in occupational health and safety, where preserving human life and health is paramount. To do this, we must give our leaders the underpinning training and tools to create this type of culture.”
According to NEBOSH, Bapco Refining’s approach includes external speakers on psychological safety and graduate training on diversity, inclusion, and team management.
Visibility, accountability, and assessment
NEBOSH reported that leaders at Bapco Refining are encouraged to attend workplace events and maintain an open-door policy.
The company’s “no name, no blame” safety policy has evolved into “Be brave” to align with its leadership principles and encourage incident reporting.
Leadership accountability is tracked through evidence-based assessments, with leaders showing how they apply the principles and encourage psychological safety.
Post-course evaluations measure training impact.
An employee engagement survey found strong agreement that leaders communicate effectively, provide quality development, and prioritise health and safety.
NEBOSH-endorsed training courses
Shenstone said: “Bapco Refining has an extensive suite of leadership support that reflects the impact and value leaders can have, and just how committed the organisation is to developing its safety culture.”
He added: “This transcends to operational safety, too – if we have created a psychologically safe culture where workers can speak up about safety issues, we must also give them the knowledge and skills to be able to work with confidence.”
NEBOSH confirmed that six Bapco Refining courses have received NEBOSH Endorsed certification, covering authorised gas testing, harness safety, hazard recognition and control, working at height, and confined space awareness.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This initiative demonstrates how leadership training can directly support workplace safety culture and incident prevention.
The approach combines behavioural, mental health, and technical safety training, which may be relevant to organisations aiming to integrate safety leadership into operational policy.
For safety professionals, the case offers an example of embedding leadership principles into all management levels while aligning them with accredited technical training.
Authentic leadership training supports long-term safety culture goals: Summary
NEBOSH reported that Bapco Refining is delivering leadership training to strengthen safety culture.
The programme is based on five leadership principles.
Training includes workshops, webinars, and mental health awareness.
More than 2,400 employees took part in sessions in 2024.
Six technical courses have received NEBOSH Endorsed certification.
Leaders are encouraged to maintain visibility and open communication.
Employee surveys indicate positive feedback on leadership communication and safety focus.
Post-course assessments track progress on leadership and safety culture.
The initiative aligns with NEBOSH guidance on psychological safety.
Elsipogtog First Nation opens culturally inspired fire safety facility
Canada supports $10 million Indigenous fire safety project
Indigenous Services Canada has reported the opening of a new fire hall at Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick, aimed at strengthening local fire safety.
The facility was inaugurated on 1 August 2025 and is located on the unceded territory of the L’nu.
According to Indigenous Services Canada, the project received more than $10 million in federal funding.
The building includes space for four fire trucks, operational equipment, and purpose-built areas to support firefighter health and community access.
The fire hall was officially opened by local leaders and federal representatives.
New facility designed with cultural and practical elements
Indigenous Services Canada stated that the design of the new fire hall incorporates cultural symbols meaningful to the community.
The exterior includes colours based on the medicine wheel, while engraved canoe paddles on the façade reflect the community’s relationship with water.
The interior features natural wood panels connecting the building to the surrounding forest.
Indigenous Services Canada said the structure was designed to meet practical operational needs while maintaining cultural relevance.
The project was developed in partnership with the local leadership of Elsipogtog First Nation.
Statement from Elsipogtog First Nation leadership
Chief Arren Sock of Elsipogtog First Nation said the fire hall reflects both pride in local firefighters and the community’s collective values.
Chief Sock said: “This fire station is more than just a building, it’s a symbol of our community’s strength, resilience and deep respect for those who protect us.
“I’m so proud of our firefighters and of all they do for the Elsipogtog First Nation community. It’s especially meaningful that this fire station is dedicated in memory of Fire Chief Sylvester Copage, who served our community with courage, dedication, and heart.
“His legacy lives on in every firefighter who walks through these doors.”
The community held a dedication ceremony as part of the opening.
Chief Sock noted that the fire hall supports long-term service capacity and readiness.
Federal minister recognises community effort
The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, attended the event and praised the community-led effort.
Gull-Masty said: “Congratulations to the community of Elsipogtog First Nation, who brought this important and vital facility to life.
“This new fire hall is important to the Nation’s growth and resilience and reinforces your commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for the community.”
She stated that the project demonstrated effective collaboration between the community and federal services.
The minister said the fire hall reinforces fire safety and long-term planning in Indigenous communities.
Indigenous Services Canada confirmed its continued support for local infrastructure priorities.
Purpose-built facility supports long-term fire resilience
According to Indigenous Services Canada, the fire hall was constructed to support emergency response in the region and improve access to fire safety infrastructure.
The agency said the building enables efficient deployment of equipment and enhances service delivery across Elsipogtog First Nation.
The facility also includes areas for training, rest and administration.
Indigenous Services Canada said the building was developed to accommodate current and future operational demands.
It added that the facility aligns with national goals to support Indigenous-led emergency preparedness and safety services.
Elsipogtog First Nation opens culturally inspired fire safety facility: Summary
Elsipogtog First Nation opened a new fire hall on 1 August 2025.
The project received over $10 million in funding from Indigenous Services Canada.
The facility includes bays for four fire trucks and equipment storage.
It features spaces for firefighter wellness, community use and administration.
The exterior design incorporates the medicine wheel and engraved paddles.
Interior wood panelling connects the structure to local traditions.
Chief Arren Sock dedicated the building in memory of Fire Chief Sylvester Copage.
The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty attended and addressed the community.
Indigenous Services Canada stated the project supports long-term emergency response.
The agency confirmed its continued infrastructure support for Indigenous communities.
Britannia Fire is simplifying fire safety with composite extinguishers
Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director at Britannia Fire, explains how composite extinguishers offer an eco-friendly, low-maintenance solution aligned with UK waste and carbon targets
Over the last ten years, the fire extinguisher market has evolved significantly. Customers have been calling out for change.
They want fire extinguishers that are longer lasting, easily maintained, more cost-effective and eco-friendly.
This is partly down to a global push to achieve net zero and move towards a circular economy, which aims to eliminate waste and prolong the life of materials and products by reusing, repairing, refurbishing, remanufacturing and recycling.
In the UK for example, businesses are expected to decarbonise operations, reduce emissions and improve efficiency with the aim of reaching net zero by 2050.
Through the Environment Act 2021 and Waste Prevention Programme updated in 2023, businesses are also expected to reduce waste and improve resource efficiency to help the Government meet legally binding targets to reduce residual waste per capita by 50% by 2042.
From 2022, large companies and financial institutions must also disclose climate-related risks, including waste and resource efficiency, in annual reports to improve transparency and accountability.
Traditionally, steel fire extinguishers have been the go-to solution for facilities managers and fire safety professionals, but they are prone to corrosion and therefore need servicing every year and replacing every five years.
They are also heavy, non-recyclable and often contain harmful ‘forever’ chemicals.
Composite fire extinguishers on the other hand, are helping organisations to meet stringent waste and carbon reduction targets and simplifying fire safety.
They’re made from a unique combination of durable plastic and aramid fibres, meaning they are strong, don’t corrode and therefore last 20 years.
They are free from harmful chemicals, fully recyclable and don’t need annual servicing.
A pioneer of this technology, Britannia Fire launched its first P50 composite range from its Norfolk factory 15 years ago.
Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director at Britannia Fire explains: “Composite fire extinguishers simplify everything for the customer and end user:
Simple, in-house annual checks
Composite fire extinguishers only need a simple check by a Responsible Person every year, rather than a costly annual service.
This can be done by the customer at their convenience and is much cheaper and more time and carbon efficient.
For sensitive sites, this also removes the hassle of additional security clearances and safety inductions for service personnel.
Only one refurbishment required in 20 years
Lasting 20 years, composite fire extinguishers only need refurbishing once in their lifetime.
A refurbishment is carried out by a skilled engineer, who empties, pressure tests and refills the extinguisher.
They also replace the red outer jacket, which clearly states the expiry date.
Britannia has a stock of refurbished extinguishers so they can be swapped out immediately, ensuring continuity of fire safety.
Reduces carbon footprint and waste
Composite fire extinguishers are better for the environment and organisations can make huge carbon savings when switching.
Manufacturing is less energy intensive and at Britannia Fire it is partially powered by solar energy, resulting in a 22% carbon saving when compared to metal alternatives.
Carbon emissions are reduced further as there is no requirement for annual servicing and the additional journeys that entails.
They also last longer, are fully recyclable and free from harmful PFAS chemicals.
Saves money
Cost savings are huge over the product’s lifetime.
Customers are saving thousands of pounds on annual servicing and only have to replace their units every 20 years as opposed to five.
The P50 is also multi-purpose.
Both the water mist and fluorine-free foam versions are suitable for Class A (carbonaceous) and electrical fires up to 1000V, with the P50 ECO foam additionally suitable for Class B (flammable liquids) and Class F (fats/oils) fires.
Importantly, this means that one or the other should suffice in most locations and that CO2 extinguishers for suppressing electrical or class B fires, are often no longer required at all.
Many of our new customers can reduce the number of extinguishers they need by half, saving a huge amount of money from the outset.
Easy to use
A single fire extinguisher at each fire point takes away any confusion and makes it much easier to use confidently in the event of a fire.
Precious time in an emergency can be wasted when faced with a choice.
National Trust selects P50 Water Mist extinguishers for UK holiday cottages
Britannia has built a strong customer base since launching the P50, listening to feedback and adapting to accommodate their needs.
The National Trust, for example, has installed P50 water mist fire extinguishers in all its 600 UK holiday cottages.
Bob Bantock, Operational Risk Business Partner and National Fire Specialist at the National Trust, explains: “The National Trust offers holiday lets in beautiful locations across the country.
“Of course, the safety of our guests is paramount and by law we have a number of fire safety measures in place in every property, including clear escape routes, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and the provision of fire blankets and fire extinguishers, which are typically fitted in the kitchen or hallway.
“We first tried dry powder fire extinguishers, but soon found issues with residue and contamination if they were ever discharged.
“The powder was a real problem to clean.
“AFFF foam fire extinguishers weren’t much better because the foam needed replacing every five years, with hazardous waste disposal eventually costing more than the extinguisher itself.
“It became cheaper to buy a new one than empty and re-fill an existing one, which clashes with our sustainability objectives.
“But above all, the biggest headache was that both the dry powder and AFFF foam came in traditional metal cylinders which can corrode and need servicing every year.
“It was costly to send service technicians to remote locations and we found ourselves continually apologising to guests that their holiday would be interrupted by a service visit.
“Thankfully, Britannia Fire was able to offer a convenient and cost-effective solution, with environmental benefits.
“We transitioned to the two-litre P50 Water Mist fire extinguishers which have proved much more suitable.
“The P50s contain de-ionised water, which means when they are discharged, there’s almost no residue to clean up.
“They are multi-purpose and suitable for both Class A fires and electrical fires.
“Crucially, the cylinder is made from composite materials which don’t corrode, so they don’t need annual servicing, just regular visual inspections by our own staff.
“After 10 years, the P50s are refurbished and then good to last another 10 years.”
This was originally published in the August 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.
Offshore safety enhanced by AI detection system from Zelim
AI-based tracking system installed on second offshore rig
Zelim has reported that its AI detection and tracking system, ZOE, has been deployed on a second offshore jack-up rig to support safety efforts in man overboard incidents.
The company said the installation follows more than a year of operation on a North Sea rig managed by an offshore drilling contractor.
ZOE combines onboard camera hardware with machine learning software to detect and monitor man overboard events in real time.
According to Zelim, the system identifies a person entering the water and continuously tracks their position, assisting response teams with faster localisation and retrieval.
The company said the second deployment marks a shift from fixed-site use to more variable environments, where the rig regularly relocates and encounters a range of lighting and sea conditions.
System trained using bespoke maritime visual data
Zelim said ZOE is trained using a proprietary dataset built specifically for maritime detection.
The dataset was first developed in 2020 while Zelim was working on its Guardian unmanned rescue vessel.
Drone-mounted cameras were used to gather images of people in the water under different angles, lighting, and sea conditions.
According to Zelim, these visuals were manually annotated to help teach the system how people appear in non-ideal maritime environments.
The company said the dataset now contains over 7 million labelled images and is one of the most extensive of its kind in maritime safety applications.
Zelim CEO and founder Sam Mayall said: “A person in the water may be wearing dark clothing, face down, partially submerged, or obscured by foam or spray.
“AThese aren’t fixed profiles.
“We had to ensure the system could recognise a human target from a range of angles and distances, under real-world conditions.
“That meant building a dataset that reflected how people actually appear in the water, not how they’re modelled in ideal circumstances.”
Detection module supports other safety operations
Zelim said ZOE integrates with existing onboard systems including navigation and emergency response tools.
The company stated that its detection and alerting process is handled locally, without reliance on remote cloud services.
ZOE is also part of a wider software platform.
Zelim said other modules include Watchkeeper, which identifies navigational hazards, and Shield, which monitors restricted areas for intrusions or unplanned vessel activity.
All modules are based on the same core AI system and have been developed for different safety and operational scenarios.
Mayall said: “If you can reliably detect a person in the water, you can also detect other objects or risks.
“The same system can support navigation, perimeter monitoring, or safety watchkeeping.
“That’s where we see this technology heading – not just detection, but situational understanding.”
System tested in collaboration with US Coast Guard
Zelim has worked with the US Coast Guard to test and validate the AI system.
According to the company, one driver for the partnership was Coast Guard research showing that visual detection by human crews can be inconsistent.
Mayall said: “AI doesn’t fatigue, doesn’t blink, and doesn’t overlook what’s in plain sight.
“That consistency makes it a reliable component in a broader safety system.”
The company said the aim is not to replace human judgement but to support it through faster detection and real-time awareness.
Coast Guard studies cited by Zelim found that visual identification rates for people in the water can fall below 20 percent depending on environmental conditions.
Offshore operators now investing in consistent monitoring
Zelim stated that uptake of the system across offshore platforms reflects a wider shift toward integrated monitoring.
The company said intelligent detection tools are increasingly seen as part of routine safety assurance, not just emergency tools.
Operators are reportedly investing in systems that reduce the time needed to identify and respond to incidents.
Zelim said its long-term development has focused on combining automation with on-site responsiveness.
The company said the use of onboard AI improves both personnel safety and asset awareness, especially in high-risk maritime settings.
Offshore safety enhanced by AI detection system from Zelim: Summary
Zelim has installed its ZOE AI detection system on a second offshore jack-up rig.
The system detects and tracks man overboard incidents in real time.
Its first installation was on a North Sea rig managed by an offshore drilling company.
Zelim said ZOE was designed specifically for maritime safety conditions.
The system uses visual data collected from drone cameras during earlier product development.
This dataset includes over 7 million manually annotated images.
ZOE integrates with onboard infrastructure to function without cloud connectivity.
Other modules, Watchkeeper and Shield, use the same detection engine for separate monitoring tasks.
Zelim collaborated with the US Coast Guard to test the technology.
The company said AI can detect people and hazards with more consistency than human crews.
According to Zelim, detection systems reduce response time and improve operational oversight.
Operators are beginning to adopt such systems as part of their standard safety equipment.