The Fire Safety Event Returns

by Breaking NewsEvents

What to expect when the Fire Safety Event will open its doors at the NEC Birmingham on 30 April

The Fire Safety Event returns to the NEC Birmingham at the end of this month, playing host to leading manufacturers and suppliers to showcase their latest approved products and solutions.

The show is dedicated to supporting industry practitioners, professionals and organisations in achieving and maintaining the very highest standards of fire safety management.

Here’s what to expect from the event which kicks off on 30 April.

Main attractions and learning opportunities

The Fire Safety Event 2024 features a series of key attractions and learning opportunities designed to enhance fire safety knowledge and skills.

The Passive Fire Experience, a collaboration with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), is a stand-out attraction for this year’s show.

This experience provides attendees with a comprehensive overview of passive fire systems, delivered through a unique combination of classroom training and innovative technology.

Participants will be able to engage in immersive Virtual Reality experiences, created by RiVR, which simulate real-life fire scenarios.

Experts in passive fire protection will provide direct interaction and guidance, ensuring visitors gain practical insights into methods, systems, products, and applications.

Another key attraction is the Live Fire & Security Testing, conducted in association with Warringtonfire and Element.

This demonstration will illustrate the importance of using security-rated doors to combat opportunist attacks.

Through this live testing, the event showcases the rigorous processes involved in evaluating and ensuring the effectiveness of security doors.

CPD-accredited seminars are also on offer at the event’s Fire Safety Leaders Summit.

These sessions present an opportunity for attendees to gain valuable insights into current trends and best practices in fire safety.

The Summit features a range of topics including proactive compliance, the complexities of fire safety challenges, and the latest regulatory updates.

These seminars and summits will equip attendees with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of fire safety.

Networking and interactive sessions

The Fire Safety Event 2024 facilitates a range of networking and interactive sessions, providing attendees with valuable opportunities to connect, exchange ideas, and gain new perspectives in the field of fire safety management.

CONNECT+ Live, a hosted meetings program designed to foster professional connections within the fire safety industry, returns to the NEC.

This program acts as a concierge service, meticulously matching fire safety professionals with relevant solution providers based on their specific requirements and interests.

CONNECT+ Live attendees can save time and effort as the program arranges pre-scheduled meetings with exhibitors, ensuring a seamless and productive experience.

These meetings are designed to go beyond introductions, offering quality interactions, providing a personalised consultation platform for discussing upcoming projects and future collaborations.

This format is particularly beneficial for professionals seeking innovative products and services, as it allows them to engage in meaningful discussions directly with experts and industry leaders.

Andrea White, Fire Engineer and Managing Director of AW Fire Ltd, will host a discussion focused on themes such as diversity, inclusion, and the evolving landscape of fire safety management.

This session promises to be dynamic and thought-provoking, where attendees will have the chance to hear from and engage with professionals discussing these critical issues.

The panel aims to amplify the conversation around diversity and inclusion in fire safety, contributing to the development of a more inclusive industry environment.

The event also has multiple networking events designed to facilitate informal interactions among attendees.

The Networking Drinks, hosted by Women in Fire Safety Awards and Women in Fire Service, provide an ideal setting for professionals to connect and share experiences in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Networking Café also offers a casual space for attendees to unwind and engage in conversations over snacks and beverages.

Diversity and inclusion

The 2024 event is placing emphasis on diversity and inclusion, particularly focusing on empowering women within the fire safety industry.

This commitment to diversity is evident through various initiatives and collaborations aimed at fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives and expertise are valued and celebrated.

“Supporting Women in Fire Safety” is a key initiative of the event, underlining the importance of gender diversity in the fire safety sector.

The initiative recognises that the industry thrives when it embraces diversity and inclusivity.

Through this commitment, the event aims to empower women in fire safety management by providing a platform for their voices and contributions.

The Fire Safety Event is focused on actively promoting their participation and leadership in fire safety.

The initiative seeks to create an atmosphere that encourages and nurtures the professional growth of women, contributing to the advancement of the industry as a whole.

Another integral component of the event’s focus on diversity and inclusion is “Women Talking Fire,” an independent networking and support group specifically for women in the UK fire safety industry.

This group plays a vital role in the event, creating a space for women to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other.

Women Talking Fire is a community that fosters empowerment, shared learning, and collective action.

The group’s presence at the event is a testament to the importance of creating opportunities for women to discuss challenges, exchange ideas, and support each other’s professional development.

By bringing together women from various facets of fire safety, Women Talking Fire will ensure that their unique perspectives and expertise are not only heard but are instrumental in shaping the future of fire safety.

Innovation and compliance

The Fire Safety Event 2024 prominently features the Innovation & Compliance Theatre, sponsored by BSI (British Standards Institution), which showcases a series of key sessions designed to address critical aspects of fire safety.

These sessions focus on innovative solutions and compliance in the realm of fire safety, reflecting the evolving nature of industry challenges and advancements.

One of the notable sessions in the Innovation & Compliance Theatre is dedicated to fire suppression solutions for lithium-ion battery fires.

This session, led by experts from BSI, addresses the increasing concern over fires caused by lithium batteries.

The discussion will explore interim solutions while standards are in development, drawing on global experiences and future best practices for fire suppression products.

This session is vital for professionals seeking to understand and mitigate the risks associated with lithium battery fires.

Another key session centres on sustainability in fire safety.

Presented by Vicki Wells, Sustainability Manager at Apollo, this session delves into how sustainability principles are reshaping the fire safety industry.

Topics covered will include responsible sourcing, carbon management, circular economy practices, and material compliance.

Wells presentation aims to guide attendees on practical steps to make fire detectors and alarm systems more environmentally responsible, aligning fire safety practices with sustainable development goals.

The event also features the Passive Fire Conference, organised in partnership with ASFP.

This conference focuses on various aspects of passive fire protection, covering essential topics from specification and installation to inspection and maintenance.

The aim of this partnership is to provide attendees with comprehensive insights into passive fire protection, emphasising its critical role in overall fire safety strategy.

This includes discussions led by industry experts, offering practical advice and up-to-date knowledge on passive fire safety measures in the built environment.

The Passive Fire Conference will be an invaluable resource for professionals looking to enhance their understanding and application of passive fire protection in their projects.

Event partners and networking

The Fire Safety Event 2024 is supported by a group of Premier Partners and other esteemed supporters, contributing to the success and enrichment of the event.

The Premier Partners for the event include notable companies such as Apollo, Baldwin Boxall, C-TEC, Checkmate Fire, Cygnus, Dorplan, DorSuite, EMS, FFE, Global Fire Equipment, Helio Gas Detection, Hyfire, Inim, Iriss, LFS Plus+ Group, Profab Access, Sentry Doors, Strongdor, Teletek, TOA, Vox Ignis.

These organisations represent some of the most innovative and influential entities in the fire safety industry, with cutting-edge products, services, and insights.

Their participation as Premier Partners lends essential expertise to the event and provides attendees with access to a wide array of solutions and knowledge.

In addition to the Premier Partners, the event is also supported by a variety of other partners and associations.

This extensive network of supporters includes BAFE, British Fire Consortium, CPDme, DHF, Ecn Education Business, ET, FSA, FPA, Government Business, HSM, Health Business, IFC Group, IFE, IFEDA, IFSM, IFSJ, IOSH, IWMA, NAHFO, NSi, Premier Construction, Professional Electrician, S News, Safety Product Finder, Smoke Control Association, Source Security, SSAIB, and WIFS.

The support from these organisations plays a fundamental role in enriching the event’s content and broadening the scope of topics and discussions.

A note from the Show Director

Tristan Norman, Director of The Fire Safety Event, says: “The event has evolved into a pivotal meeting place not only for the UK’s fire industry but has also extended its reach across Europe, positioning it as one of the premier shows for fire safety leaders to convene, network, and engage with their industry peers.

“At the forefront of this year’s Fire Safety Event is its distinction as the largest the UK has hosted in over a decade, marked by an unprecedented number of exhibitors.

“With nearly 175 participants, we’re hosting the largest collection of fire safety exhibitors the UK has seen in over a decade.

“This event is a must-attend for anyone in the fire safety industry, offering a unique opportunity to witness the extensive range and scale of exhibitors available, right here in Birmingham. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind showcase.”

Meet the IFSJ team

International Fire & Safety Journal will be present at the show on stand 5-A66. Feel free to stop by the stand to pick up a free copy of the magazine and catch up with the team who will be on hand to talk attendees. To arrange a meeting with the Iain at the show contact: iain.hoey@intfireandsafetyjournal.com.

This article was originally published in the April 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Registration open for The Fire Safety Event

by Breaking NewsEvents

Uniting the UK’s fire safety industry at the NEC Birmingham

The Fire Safety Event will open its doors at the NEC Birmingham on 25-27 April 2023 and will play host to leading manufacturers and suppliers to showcase their latest approved products and solutions. Dedicated to supporting industry practitioners, professionals and organisations in achieving and maintaining the very highest standards of fire safety management.

The UK’s largest showcase of exhibitors and supporters

With over 150 exhibitors participating at the show, some of the industry’s leading brands including Advanced, Aico, Apollo, Checkmate Fire, Draeger, Eaton, Plus+ Group, Sentry Doors, TOA and many more, will be showcasing their latest research and development, product and solution launches and live demonstrations.

A number of key association and industry bodies will be supporting the Fire Safety Event and will be on hand to offer guidance and expert advice to visitors. These include the Association for Specialist Fire Protection, National Association of Healthcare Fire Officers, Fire Protection Association, Smoke Control Association, Institute of Fire Safety Managers, Institution of Fire Engineers, BAFE, NSI and ECA/FSA and more.

Unmissable CPD-Accredited Conference Theatres

Education is at the heart of The Fire Safety Event. Boasting three industry-led theatres and offering 45+ hours of free-to-attend CPD content this is the perfect opportunity for visitors to gain direct insight into improving, maintaining, and championing fire safety for all businesses.

The Passive Fire Conference is in partnership withthe Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), this conference theatre will cover passive fire protection topics and various fire safety measures in the built environment. Hear from the experts and get the essential advice from specification, installation, inspection and maintenance.

The Fire Safety Theatre will feature a line-up of leading industry experts and keynotes who will share their insight and expertise on best practice, regulatory updates and topical areas impacting the fire safety sector. Gain the practical knowledge and strategies to navigate new policy changes and stay fully compliant with fire safety standards.

New for 2023, The Fire Innovation Theatre will showcase presentations on the important industry updates and guidance for practitioners and business owners. With a focus on standards, regulations and industry best practice, these sessions will be vital to ensure businesses remain compliant and are best equipped to meet the needs of their clients.

Face to face meetings and networking opportunities

To meet the business needs of fire safety professionals, The Fire Safety Event will be introducing the specialised matchmaking service CONNECT+ Live. CONNECT+ Live is a free-of-charge personalised matchmaking service that match qualified buyers with hand-picked solution providers. Visitors will be able to save time and money, and be able to make new invaluable contacts to benchmark and gain invaluable insight.

To facilitate more networking and build new contacts, there will also be two networking receptions taking place on the end of day one and two from 16:00. Visitors, exhibitor and partners are invited to unwind and recoup from their day in an informal seating.

Part of the largest UK tradeshow dedicated to the protection of people, places and assets.

The Fire Safety Event is uniquely co-located with The Security Event, The Health & Safety Event, The Workplace Event and The National Cyber Security Show, which together form The Safety and Security Series. With only one registration, delegates have access to all five of the biggest of their kind in the UK, making this one unmissable opportunity.

Additionally, the events offer free parking on site at the NEC. This will further enforce that the NEC is the most accessible venue for any event in the fire and security sector with a train station and airport on side and the venue adjacent to the M42 motorway. 

For more information or to register for your FREE pass visit: https://www.firesafetyevent.com/asfp-2023

Everything you need to know about The Fire Safety Event 2022

by Breaking NewsEventsUncategorized

Dedicated to supporting industry practitioners, professionals, and organisations in achieving and maintaining the very highest standards of fire safety management, it will the first time this year for a major UK exhibition to gather the whole industry all under one roof. 

UK’s largest showcase of exhibitors and supporters 

With over 100 exhibitors participating at the show, some of the industry’s leading brands including Aico, C-TEC, Apollo, Global Fire Equipment, Safety Technology International, SELO, Siemens, Fire Angel, Checkmate, Rockwool, FSI, EMS Limited, Tyco, Hytera, SimPRO, Firemate, Profab and many more, will be showcasing their latest research and development, product and solution launches and live demonstrations. 

A number of key association and industry bodies will be supporting the Fire Safety Event and will be on hand to offer guidance and expert advice to visitors. These include the Association for Specialist Fire Protection, National Association of Healthcare Fire Officers, Fire Protection Association, Smoke Control Association, Institute of Fire Safety Managers, Institution of Fire Engineers, BAFE, NSI and ECA/FSA and more. 

NEW! Passive Fire Arena 

In partnership with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), this brand-new area will feature a collection of ASFP members and specialist suppliers. In the wake of the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, passive fire protection has never been more prevalent.  

Helping visitors navigate around the show to source passive fire protection products and services, and provide key guidance on current regulatory changes, this arena will be complimented with a Passive Fire Conference. Each day will be themed with day one on the Golden Thread – looking into the essential requirements for the collation of information and management systems so individuals and organisations can access reliable, accurate and up to date information. Joined by Dan Rossiter, Sector Lead (Built Environment Digital Transformation) from BSI, who will talk about supporting the Golden Thread through product traceability and Russ Timpson, Founder and organiser of the Tall Building Fire Safety Network (TBFSN), Tall Building Fire Safety Network on what you need to know to manage Fire Safety in HRB’s. 

Day two will delve into Passive Fire Protection (PFP), how to protect the structure of a building to safeguard peoples’ lives and limit the financial impact of damage to buildings and contents. David Keeble, Head of Sales from Coopers Fire will present on why specialist fire resistant glass is needed and Global HSE Group’s Managing Director, Andrew Cooper will look at the challenges of firestopping when facing new challenges and circumstances,  

Finally, day three will end on competency – identifying the knowledge, skills, abilities, and mindset, evaluated through demonstrated behaviours, which directly and positively contribute to the success of installing, manufacturing, distributing and designing. 

Unmissable content, thought-provoking discussions and live industry debates 

Education is at the heart of The Fire Safety Event. Boasting three industry-led theatres and offering 45+ hours of free-to-attend CPD content this is the perfect opportunity for visitors to gain direct insight into improving, maintaining, and championing fire safety for all businesses. 

The Fire Safety Theatre (Sponsored by Xtralis) will cover the challenging and critical topics surrounding fire safety management. Discussion and debate driven, these insightful sessions include the fire safety bill update and the formation of the National Construction Products Regulator, protecting large premises from large fire, the diversity of ASD functionality and applications and the hugely popular mock trial recreating a real life trial under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and much more. 

The Fire and Security Installer Theatre sponsored by Resideo and in partnership with NSI, will return with content tailored specifically to fire and security installers and integrators. Covering the standards, regulations and industry best practice, these sessions will provide all the essential advice and guidance to ensure businesses and professionals are fully complaint. Key sessions not to miss are: 

CROSS – Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures 

Neil Gibbins, CROSS lead for fire safety 

BS 8418:2021 for Detector-Activated Surveillance Systems – The Game Changer For Police Response 

Matthew Holliday, Director of Approval Schemes – National Security Inspectorate (NSI) 

Fire Detection and Alarm Competence 

Mike Smith, Technical Director – Electrical Contractors’ Association 

Fire system installation quality, takeovers, and verification 

Peter Baxter, Technical Advisor – ECA/FSA 

Face to face meetings and networking opportunities  

To meet the business needs of fire safety professionals, The Fire Safety Event will be introducing a new and specialised matchmaking service CONNECT+ Live. CONNECT+ Live is a free-of-charge personalised matchmaking service that match qualified buyers with hand-picked solution providers. Visitors will be able to save time and money, and be able to make new invaluable contacts to benchmark and gain invaluable insight. 

To facilitate more networking and build new contacts, there will also be two networking receptions (sponsored by Firemate) taking place on day one and two from 16:00. Visitors, exhibitor and partners are invited to unwind and recoup from their day in an informal seeting. 

Part of the largest UK tradeshow dedicated to the protection of people, places and assets. 

The Fire Safety Event is uniquely co-located with The Security Event, The Health & Safety Event, and the newly relaunched The Workplace Event which together form The Safety and Security Series. With only one registration delegates have access to all four events spanning over 30,000 square metres – making these events the biggest of their kind in the UK and providing easy access to four major events, over 600 exhibitors, and one unmissable opportunity. 

In another first, the events will now offer free parking on site at the NEC. This will further enforce that the NEC is the most accessible venue for any event in the fire and security sector with a train station and airport on side and the venue adjacent to the M42 motorway.  

  

For more information or to register for your FREE pass visit www.firesafetyevent.com  

FPA’s Jonathan O’Neill to address The Fire Safety Event 2022

by EventsFeatured News

Fire Protection Association’s managing director Jonathan O’Neill OBE will be addressing the audience in the Fire Safety Theatre with the Fire Protection Association’s concerns about the forthcoming Building Safety Bill. O’Neill will address audiences on Wednesday, April 6, from 10:15 to 11:00am

On Thursday 7 April, 14:00 – 15:00, the FPA’s Senior Fire Safety Trainer Alan Emms will be co-presenting a CPD session in the Training and Competency workshop taking place in the Fire Safety Theatre which will provide practical guidance and an insight into all aspects of fire safety training whilst focusing on the role of the Responsible Person.

Launched in 2016, The Fire Safety Event is one of the UK’s important industry events which has been on the radar of several professionals and manufacturers over the last six years. During its time, it has become the UK’s largest fire and safety show, with more than 100 leading manufacturers and service providers showcasing the most cutting-edge fire safety products and solutions in active and passive fire protection.

The Fire Safety Event is run alongside The Security Event, The Workplace Event, and The Health & Safety Event. Collectively known as ‘The Safety & Security Series’ that is set to welcome more than 700 exhibiting businesses and visitor numbers surpassing 28,000 attendees.  

O’Neill began his career in the insurance industry and was appointed Managing Director of the FPA in 1999. During his time as MD, he has overseen two relocations and has managed the organisation to financial independence from insurers. 

O’Neill has served on numerous government, ministerial, and sector advisory bodies and was part of the strategic advisory group on the Fire Futures Review. He represents UK insurers on the Prevention Forum of Insurance Europe, is the UK’s representative at the General Assemblies of CFPA Europe and CFPA International, and sits on the Executive of the Fire Sector Federation. 

In 2017, he was awarded in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to fire safety and received his OBE from Prince William, Duke of Cambridge on Tuesday 31 October at Buckingham Palace. 

FireAngel to showcase IoT solution at The Fire Safety Event 2022

by Featured NewsIndustry SectorsPublic Events

FireAngel will be exhibiting on Stand 3A/E50 at this year’s Fire & Safety Event, showcasing its social housing IoT solution, FireAngel Connected, to a network of fire safety managers, health and safety officers, risk assessors and consultants. 

Continuing to fulfil its mission to protect and save lives with innovative, cutting-edge home safety technology, FireAngel Connected is the most technologically advanced fire safety solution for social housing in the fire safety market. 

FireAngel Connected offers a cloud and IoT-based solution to help social housing landlords monitor fire risk, gas safety, water leaks and electrical appliances throughout their properties from a single remote platform.  

Data monitored in real-time can alert social landlords to the status of heat, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in a property if triggered or in need of maintenance, in turn, eliminating wasteful visits, staff time and administration fees. 

With the unique automated AI capabilities of FireAngel Predict built in – the only solution of its kind in the market – an instant, real-time fire risk level unique to each property is provided, enabling active intervention before a fire starts.  

As housing associations navigate the Fire Safety Act 2021, rising maintenance costs and the government’s White Paper on social housing, there has never been a greater need for solutions that can unlock cost savings, accelerate operational efficiencies and, ultimately, protect tenant safety. 

Nick Rutter, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer, FireAngel said: “IoT and AI advancements are driving technological innovation in housing associations and strengthening the golden thread of information for buildings.” FireAngel will be located at stand 3A/E50. 

Access 360 to showcase fire safety solutions at The Fire Safety Event 2022

by Featured NewsFire DetectionFire SuppressionIndustry SectorsProductsPublic Events

Bilco UK, Profab Access and Howe Green, which together form Access 360, will be exhibiting a complete range of certified access solutions for roofs, ceilings, walls, and floors at this year’s Fire Safety Event.

From 5th – 7th April, industry professionals can meet with Access 360’s technical experts at Birmingham’s NEC on stand 3a/E25 to learn more about its comprehensive range of fire integrity and fire safety access products.

This includes Bilco UK’s unique SKY Flatglass Smoke Vent, Profab Access’ revolutionary patented PRECISION Adjustable Frame and Howe Green’s extensive offering of fire rated floor access covers.

On Thursday 7th April, Marcus Parnham, Access 360’s commercial director, will be delivering an exclusive seminar in the Fire Safety Theatre at 11am, discussing the importance of comprehensive fire testing and certification to ensure the highest standards of safety, efficiency and compliance.

Across the three days, visitors can receive live demonstrations of Profab Access’ ground breaking PRECISION Adjustable Frame, which makes the installation of riser doors up to 30% quicker.

The only product of its kind currently available, the PRECISION Adjustable Frame has been expertly engineered to be fully adjusted to meet the specific dimensions of each structural opening, when installed into a flexible or solid wall construction.

Featuring a continual adjustable steel packer system and built in factory applied intumescent fire rated mastic strips to the outer frame that provides fire stopping between the wall and the frame, it ensures the installation is fit for purpose, by providing the highest standards in accuracy.

Profab Access’ comprehensive portfolio of third party tested solutions, including the INTEGRA 4000 Series and VEGA 1500 Series Riser Doors, in addition to the PRIMA 1000 Fire Rated Series and SPIRA 6000 Series Access Panels, will also be on display.

Attendees can also receive a demonstration of Bilco UK’s innovative SKY Flatglass, which offers professionals a diverse ‘three in one’ solution, as it can be utilised as a smoke vent, roof access hatch and rooflight.

Howe Green’s 7500 Series Floor Access Covers will also be on display, which are independently CERTIFIRE fire rated to BS 776 Part 22 for two hours on integrity, and up to two hours on insulation.

Visitors can also receive demonstrations Howe Green’s unique CoverSkate lifting device, which enables the safe lifting and movement of heavy floor access covers, whilst also viewing Howe Green’s Visedge Series Flexible Floor Access Covers.

The Access 360 team will be available throughout the event to discuss professionals’ upcoming projects and provide information regarding how their extensive offering of fire integrity access solutions can be specified to ensure the highest standards of performance and compliance.

Parnham said: “The Fire Safety Event is the perfect opportunity for us to present our most popular fire rated access products to visitors and share expert advice to assist them in achieving adherence with all relevant regulations by achieving the most effective and efficient specifications.”