VdS joins Euralarm as associate member in Extinguishing, Fire, Security and Services

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafetyTraining

Euralarm adds VdS as associate member

Euralarm has welcomed VdS as a new associate member in Zug, Switzerland, in March 2026.

VdS will become a member of its Extinguishing, Fire, Security and Services Sections.

VdS services and areas of work

VdS described its work as covering fire protection, security, cyber security and natural hazard prevention.

Its services include risk assessments, testing and certification, inspection services, information systems for natural hazards and a training programme.

The institute also publishes guidelines that it said set international safety and security standards.

How Euralarm described member benefits and section roles

Euralarm said companies joining the association gain insight into other European markets and opportunities, alongside access to EU policy expertise and connections with technical and political experts and potential business partners.

It added that membership enables organisations to gain expertise on standardisation and support and direct standardisation and legislative processes.

The association outlined its four sections as Extinguishing, Fire, Services and Security, with VdS joining all sections.

UK businesses prioritise security systems over fire safety measures, study finds

by Breaking NewsResearch

Most UK businesses choose security over fire protection

New research published by Spy Alarms has found that most businesses in the United Kingdom prioritise investment in security systems over fire safety measures.

According to the company, 59% of businesses reported spending on CCTV, intruder alerts and access control.

In contrast, only 39% reported investing in fire safety systems.

Spy Alarms stated that the average cost of a fire to a business is £78,000.

This figure does not include potential health impacts, emotional consequences or legal implications.

Financial concerns and lack of awareness drive low fire safety uptake

Spy Alarms reported three primary reasons for the gap in investment between security and fire safety: financial constraints, lack of awareness and limited internal processes.

The company said that many businesses deprioritise fire safety due to cost, despite the risk of severe consequences.

It also noted that new business owners may not be aware of legal responsibilities regarding fire protection.

A further issue is that some companies do not have processes in place for ongoing fire safety maintenance and training, making it difficult to implement or sustain protective systems.

Industrial, food and retail sectors face highest risk

Data shared by Spy Alarms and attributed to UK government sources outlined which business types are more likely to experience fires.

Industrial businesses were found to be most at risk, accounting for 24% of fire incidents.

Food and drink premises represented 19%, followed by retail at 17%.

Hotels and hospitals were recorded at 8% and 7% respectively.

Fire system specialist calls for better planning and perspective

Andrew Fowler, Fire System Specialist at Spy Alarms, said it is essential for businesses to have robust and properly maintained fire systems in place.

Fowler said: “As we’ve all become aware of in recent years, a well-thought-out fire plan, including sufficient and maintained systems, extinguishers and an evacuation plan supported by training, are absolute non-negotiables.”

He added: “While costs may be a concern, we offer site visits to determine the most suitable systems for our customers, from a set-up and budget perspective.

“It’s crucial to put expenses for these systems into perspective by comparing them to other operational costs and considering the potential losses and consequences of a fire incident.”

UK businesses prioritise security systems over fire safety measures, study finds: Summary

Spy Alarms has published research showing that 59% of UK businesses invest in security systems, while only 39% invest in fire safety.

The average financial cost of a fire incident is £78,000.

The company cited cost concerns, lack of awareness and weak internal processes as the main reasons for low uptake in fire safety.

Industrial, food and drink, and retail sectors were identified as the most at risk.

Government data cited by Spy Alarms showed that 24% of fires occur in industrial businesses, 19% in food and drink, and 17% in retail.

Andrew Fowler from Spy Alarms said fire plans and equipment are non-negotiable and must be maintained and supported by staff training.

OHEAP announces its membership in the Reset Group

by Featured NewsPeople

OHEAP has announced its membership in the Reset Group, who are a provider of compliance and contractor management solutions.

OHEAP Fire and Security has been a name in fire protection and security for over 60 years, specialising in a wide array of services ranging from fire extinguisher servicing and risk assessments to security technology.

By scanning a Reset card, other companies will instantly verify that OHEAP employees and contractors have the necessary skills and qualifications to complete work on-site, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork.

With Reset’s advanced site login system, contractors can easily check in and out. The system checks for expired licenses, permits to work and DBS checks ensuring full compliance with HSE regulations.

OHEAP customers can expect benefits from this partnership with Reset, previously a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, OHEAP now offer a streamlined solution designed to ensure that compliance and training is continuously met.

OHEAP become Reset member: Summary

OHEAP Fire and Security has announced its membership in the Reset Group. By scanning a Reset card, OHEAP will become verified to other companies that their employees and contractors have the skills and qualifications to complete on-site work.

Skills for Security to attend the National Apprenticeship Show

by EventsFeatured News

Skills for Security are attending the National Apprenticeship Show – London & South East, an event designed to connect young people, school leavers, and college graduates with apprenticeship opportunities across various sectors.

The show will take place during National Apprenticeship Week 2025 on Tuesday 11 February and Wednesday 12 February 2025 at Sandown Racecourse, Surrey, providing a unique opportunity to highlight the role apprenticeships play in equipping young adults with the skills needed for successful careers.

Managing Director, Skills for Security, David Scott’s statement

David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security said of his excitement at attending the event: “We are looking forward to the National Apprenticeship Show.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the many rewarding careers available in the fire and security sector while connecting with young people eager to take their first steps into the industry. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of talent and highlight the vital role apprenticeships play in building a skilled and diverse workforce for the future.”

David concludes: “We are looking forward to having the conversations and supporting young people to discover apprenticeship opportunities in fire and security.  We hope it will encourage them to see how they can build meaningful and successful careers in this essential sector.”

Features of the National Apprenticeship Show

The National Apprenticeship Show allows Skills for Security to engage directly with potential apprentices, their families, and educators. Attendees will learn about the breadth of career paths available, ranging from hands-on installation roles to technical support and management positions.

With live apprenticeship vacancies being advertised, individuals can explore immediate opportunities to join a dynamic and growing industry. Skills for Security will provide in-depth information on the latest industry developments and technologies.

From advancements in smart security systems and the use of AI and machine learning to innovations in fire prevention, visitors will gain insights into how the industry continues to evolve and the exciting career potential it offers.

The National Apprenticeship Show welcome Skills for Security: Summary

Skills for Security have announced that they will be attending The National Apprenticeship Show. Managing Director of Skills for Security, David Scott, has spoken about how he hopes the event will inspire the next generation of talent.

Motorola Solutions boosts safety for frontline workers with new body camera

by Products

Motorola Solutions has unveiled the V200, a body camera designed specifically to help protect frontline workers in stores, hospitals, hotels, schools and stadiums. Workers in these settings regularly face safety concerns, from unwelcome behaviour to theft and medical emergencies. The new V200, with its GoLive Audio safety feature, offers a direct connection to help.

The V200 joins Motorola Solutions’ ecosystem of enterprise security technologies, which includes purpose-built video security, access control and communications solutions to help improve safety and security across schools, hospitals and businesses of all sizes.

Features of the V200

The V200 body camera is a discreet, lightweight addition to a worker’s uniform. The recording feature can be activated with the push of a button to document a situation, which also serves as an effective deterrent for unwanted behaviour.

In more serious scenarios, such as medical incidents or crime, activation of the GoLive Audio feature can engage security personnel or a supervisor, who can access live video and audio and interject via the camera’s speaker. This kind of immediate intervention allows the frontline worker to focus on the situation while directly receiving support.

Motorola Solutions, Corporate Vice President of Command Centre Software and Evidence Products, Jeremiah Nelson’s statement

Jeremiah Nelson, Corporate Vice President of Command Centre Software and Evidence Products at Motorola Solutions, stated: “Industries like retail, healthcare, hospitality and education are recognising the value of body cameras to improve safety for their workers and those they serve.

“In these environments, feeling safe at work is key. The V200 was purpose-built to give frontline workers peace of mind on the job, offering proactive and immediate assistance when and where they need it.”

Loss Prevention Research Council’s Executive Director, Dr. Read Hayes statement

Dr. Read Hayes, Executive Director of the Loss Prevention Council acknowledged that: “When people feel safe, they can be more focused and productive.

“Body worn cameras are an investment in employee safety and morale which can have a direct and positive impact on team efficiency and the overall work environment.”

Importance of body cameras

As a provider of enterprise security technology solutions, Motorola Solutions explored worker sentiment related to body cameras in its 2024 UK report on retail worker safety. It found that more than a quarter of workers have considered quitting their jobs due to safety concerns, about half of workers think body cameras could make them feel safer and the majority believe body camera recordings could aid in investigations. In the UK, where body cameras are more widely adopted, 70% said body cameras are effective in de-escalating dangerous situations.

Motorola Solutions new body camera designed to boost safety for frontline workers: Summary

Frontline workers in stores, hospitals, hotels, schools and stadiums regularly face safety risks such as unwelcome behaviour and medical emergencies. To provide a solution to this growing issue, Motorola Solutions have launched their new V200 body camera.

NFPA gears up to shape the future of fire and life safety at Intersec Dubai 2025

by EventsFeatured NewsMiddle East - Events

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will be participating in Intersec Dubai 2025, the world’s largest business event addressing the future of security, safety and fire protection.

Scheduled for January 14-16, 2025, at the World Trade Center in Dubai, the event is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. NFPA will take center stage on the second day of the event at the NFPA Theatre, a dedicated area showcasing a series of presentations and panel discussions led by global and local fire and life safety experts.

NFPA’s presence at Intersec Dubai 2025

NFPA will host the Day Two agenda at the Fire and Rescue Conference, taking place in Hall Two of the Dubai World Trade Center. The program will bring together a wide array of stakeholders, including prominent government representatives and private sector leaders from throughout the GCC region.

The day will feature a series of dynamic panel discussions and expert-led sessions, addressing crucial topics such as life safety in residential buildings, fire safety in healthcare environments, and the role of IoT in smart buildings.

One of the highlights of the event will be a panel discussion on emergency preparedness and response, providing invaluable insights from industry leaders. In addition, attendees will have the chance to engage in interactive workshops, demonstrating the pioneering VR/AR technologies that are transforming fire safety training.

Another highlight of the day will be a keynote presentation and panel discussion titled “From Tragedy to Triumph – What Grenfell Means for Leading in Fire, Life, and Electrical Safety” delivered by Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s Vice President of Outreach & Advocacy. This session will explore lessons learned from the Grenfell Tower fire, the UK’s deadliest residential fire, and how fire and life safety experts can apply these insights to improve safety practices, especially in high-rise buildings.

NFPA’S Vice President of Outreach & Advocacy, Lorraine Carli’s statement

Lorraine spoke about her upcoming presentation and discussion saying: “The lessons from Grenfell continue to resonate globally, underscoring the critical need for vigilance, preparedness, and leadership in fire, life, and electrical safety.

“My keynote will explore how we transform tragedy into actionable solutions, driving a culture of safety that protects lives and property. I look forward to engaging with attendees to share insights and strategies that can make a meaningful difference in our rapidly evolving world.”

NFPA’S Director of Global Business Development, Olga Caledonia’s statement

Olga Caledonia, NFPA’s Director of Global Business Development, who will moderate the keynote panel discussion, stated that the NFPA Theatre programming aims to help everyone recognize their role in contributing to the fire and life safety system relied upon by the public.

“We all need to reflect on what we can do individually and collectively as part of a system. Whether it is advocating for stronger enforceable regulations, updated codes and standards, or supporting community fire safety initiatives, we all play an important role,” commented Caledonia.

NFPA’s Director of International Development for MENA, Dana Kamal’s statement

“NFPA is honoured to be a part of Intersec Dubai 2025, a platform that will bring together global experts and innovators in the fire and safety industry. With the rapid development of infrastructure across the region, we are committed to highlighting the impact of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, IoT, automation, AR, and VR, in enhancing fire safety practices. Our goal is to work alongside our regional partners to drive progress through knowledge-sharing and innovation, ultimately enhancing safety and saving lives,” said Dana Kamal, NFPA’s Director of International Development for MENA.

Those attending the event

The event will feature prominent leaders from both the public and private sectors, including key organizations such as Dubai Civil Defense, Abu Dhabi Civil Defense, Saudi Aramco, and Dubai Holding Group, as well as industry leaders from Oman Security and Safety Services Corporation, Siena, King Saud University Medical City, QHSEE, and SIBCA. Dubai Civil Defense can be witnessed presenting a session on the role of AI in enhancing fire safety, while Abu Dhabi Civil Defense will be seen highlighting the critical importance of code compliance. Saudi Aramco will offer valuable insights into the integration of automated emergency response systems within the oil and gas sector.

IFSJ at Intersec 2025

IFSJ is proud to once again serve as the Official Strategic Media Partner for Intersec. Visit us at stand 2-H38; we look forward to connecting with you at the show.

NFPA are excited to announce their participation in Intersec Dubai 2025: Summary

NFPA’s presence at Intersec Dubai 2025 reiterates their commitment to advancing fire and life safety practices across the globe. They looks forward to helping make a productive and impactful event, strengthening collaborations and driving progress within the fire, life and electrical safety sector.

OHEAP Fire and Security announce merger with Risk Assessment Solutions

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

As the New Year starts, OHEAP Fire and Security announces that it is merging Risk Assessment Solutions into its wide range of fire protection, security, and training services, enabling it to offer a holistic safety risk management solution to all its customers.

The merger will include services such as health and safety training, risk assessments, and compliance documentation management in the OHEAP Fire and Security portfolio. This gives customers easier access to a full range of protection services.

Managing Director of OHEAP Fire and Securities statement

Nicholas Heap, Managing Director of OHEAP Fire and Security notes: “We are delighted to be able to add additional, critical services to our portfolio as we bring Risk Assessment Solutions under the OHEAP umbrella.

“It means we can provide a wraparound protection and risk management solution for our customers, giving them peace of mind as they focus on their day jobs. This latest growth means we can better support the Risk Assessment Solution customers with a wider array of services to help them grow safely and securely.

“We are committed to ensuring we are the best people to help protect your business or organisation, whether is is through additional services, the best people or the highest quality service. We aim to make OHEAP the protection partner of choice.”

OHEAP’s new developments

This latest development is key to the strategic development of OHEAP Fire and Security who have always had the mission of empowering people with the right tools to protect their business.

Starting with essential fire safety services including extinguishers and alarms, OHEAP has expanded over the decades to offer the complete protection suite including technology-led security solutions and specialist PPE and workwear.

The last six decades have seen OHEAP Fire and Security steadily expand the services they offer to many different industries in a variety of settings across the UK, and the addition of health and safety services is another example of their commitment to protecting organisations.

OHEAP Fire and Security merge Risk Assessment Solutions into their wide range of services: Summary

The merger between OHEAP Fire and Security and Risk Assessment Solutions allows for a holistic safety risk management to be given to all their customers. Services that will be provided include fire protection, security, and training.

Nicholas Heap, Managing Director of OHEAP Fire and Security spoke about how this collaboration will enable wraparound protection and risk-management to all their customers, whilst enabling Risk Assessment Solutions to safely and securely grow.

Euralarm proposes definitions for Cyber Resilience Act implementation

by Featured News

Euralarm publishes position paper on Cyber Resilience Act

Euralarm has released a position paper proposing definitions that can be adopted by the European Commission in the Implementing Act that complements the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).

As reported by Euralarm, the CRA is set to be published in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) by the end of September or October 2024.

The new regulation introduces essential requirements to ensure that digital products, including both hardware and software, are more resilient to cyber-attacks.

The CRA will also ensure that vulnerabilities are addressed throughout the support period of each product via updates.

Conformity assessment procedures under the CRA

The CRA mandates conformity assessment procedures for compliance with its essential requirements.

Most digital products will be subject to self-assessment, provided that harmonised standards are applied, and compliance is presumed when these standards are cited in the OJEU.

However, the CRA lists certain “important” and “critical” products that will be subject to stricter conformity assessments.

One of these categories, “smart home products with security functionalities,” includes smart door locks, security cameras, baby monitoring systems, and alarm systems.

These products will require either adherence to a harmonised standard cited in the OJEU or an EU type examination by a CRA-notified body.

Importance of clear definitions for smart home products

Euralarm has stressed the need for precise definitions for smart home products with security functionalities listed in Annex III of the CRA.

The association highlighted that it is essential to ensure that clear definitions are in place to support the application of the CRA’s regulations.

Euralarm’s position paper proposes such definitions, based on a review of the category’s wording in Annex III and the criteria set out in Article 7(2) of the CRA.

Euralarm’s role in shaping regulatory clarity

Euralarm, representing the European electronic fire safety and security industry, values the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing discussions on the CRA’s implementation.

The association’s input is aimed at ensuring that the European Commission adopts definitions that are both clear and practical for the industry.

Euralarm’s proposals are designed to facilitate compliance with the CRA’s requirements and to enhance the overall security of smart home products across Europe.

Euralarm proposes definitions for Cyber Resilience Act implementation: Summary

Euralarm has released a position paper proposing definitions for smart home security products under the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).

The CRA, which is expected to be published in late 2024, introduces essential requirements to enhance the resilience of digital products against cyber-attacks.

The regulation also requires conformity assessments, with most products benefiting from self-assessment, while “important” and “critical” products, such as smart home security systems, will be subject to stricter assessments.

Euralarm emphasised the need for clear definitions in Annex III of the CRA to ensure compliance and has submitted proposals for these definitions to the European Commission.

Motorola opens new flagship office in Edinburgh

by Featured NewsSafety

Global leader in public safety and enterprise security, Motorola Solutions has opened an innovation hub in Edinburgh, Scotland, expanding its mobile video, video security and access control businesses and creating new employment and commercial opportunities for Scotland.

Motorola Solutions’ Edinburgh R&D teams will focus on cloud-based evidence management software, video security solutions and body-worn cameras, highlighting the Scottish capital’s global reputation for strong engineering talent and position as the U.K.’s top innovation city outside of London. 

“The opening of Motorola Solutions’ new Edinburgh facility is a real vote of confidence and again highlights the attractiveness of investing in Scotland,” said Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture. “Innovation is key to ensuring that Scotland is able to develop smart digital solutions to meet the needs of the future. The Motorola Solutions Innovation Hub will contribute to this work by creating video security and evidence management solutions for emergency services, not just in Scotland but internationally as well.”

Motorola Solutions’ video security innovations from Scotland are trusted by organisations worldwide, including U.K.-based NHS England ambulance trusts, National Highways and the Co-op, as well as international organisations, such as the French Ministry of the Interior, Malta Police, MetrôRio and Romanian Border Police.

“Edinburgh has a proven track record for some of the most exciting advancements in video innovation,” said Richie McBride, senior director of international mobile video, Motorola Solutions. “Our growing local presence reinforces Motorola Solutions’ commitment to investing in diverse talent to create next-generation, mission-critical technologies that are depended on by frontline workers all over the world.”

The Edinburgh office is located at Caledonian Exchange, 1st Floor, 19a Canning Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8EG.