Upcoming Webinar: How the UK second staircase mandate affects evacuation systems and building design

by EvacuationFeatured NewsSafety

IFSJ webinar to examine the UK’s second staircase mandate and its impact on tall building fire safety design

International Fire and Safety Journal (IFSJ) will host a webinar examining the implications of the UK’s second staircase mandate for fire safety strategy, system design and evacuation planning in tall residential buildings.

Register now

Titled “Redefining Escape: What the UK’s Second Staircase Mandate Means for Global Fire Safety Design”, the webinar will take place on 11 May 2026 at 11:00 BST.

The session will discuss how the introduction of mandatory second staircases in all new residential buildings over 18 metres is influencing how tall buildings are designed, occupied and managed.

While the requirement is rooted in UK legislation, the discussion will also address the broader relevance of these regulatory changes for international fire safety design and operational practice.

The webinar will examine how the second staircase requirement affects evacuation strategy in multi-stair buildings, including considerations around escape planning, compartmentation, evacuation sequencing and system zoning.

It will also address what building owners and facilities teams should consider to ensure life safety systems remain effective, maintainable and operational across multiple escape routes.

Another focus of the session will be the role of emergency lighting and dynamic signage in supporting evacuation behaviour, particularly as building layouts become more complex.

The discussion will also examine how coordinated approaches to lighting, detection and wayfinding systems can support clearer evacuation routes and reduce complexity during an emergency.

Speakers

The webinar will feature insights from two industry specialists with extensive experience in fire detection and life safety systems.

Martin Green, Commercial Training & Support Manager, Hochiki Europe, has more than 30 years of experience in the fire safety sector, including nearly two decades with Hochiki Europe.

He delivers training and technical support across the UK and provides accredited CPD and practical guidance for those responsible for the design, installation and management of life safety systems.

His expertise covers fire alarm and emergency lighting design, regulatory compliance and fire safety strategy.

He will be joined by Mick Hall, Regional Sales Manager, Hochiki Europe, who has spent the past decade working with architects, consultants, installers and building owners across the UK.

His experience includes system design, application engineering and integrated life safety approaches, including dynamic emergency communication and wayfinding systems.

Together, the speakers bring more than forty years of combined experience in the fire safety market, offering technical insight into the practical implications of the second staircase mandate.

Who should attend

This webinar will be relevant for professionals involved in the design, operation and management of tall buildings, including:

  • Architects and building designers
  • Developers, building owners and asset managers
  • Facilities and estates teams
  • Health and safety and fire safety professionals
  • Fire safety installers and electrical engineers

Although the session focuses on UK regulation, it will also provide useful insight for international audiences seeking to understand how regulatory change is influencing tall building fire safety design and operational practice.

Register for the webinar

The webinar will take place on 11 May 2026 at 11:00 BST.

To register, visit: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4263019240448011096

Webinar seeks to explain why EV parking garages pose unique fire safety challenges

by Featured NewsResearchSafetyTraining

Euralarm to hold webinar on EV fire safety

Euralarm has announced a webinar on fire safety in electric vehicle parking garages to take place on 14 October.

According to Euralarm, the session will review fire risks linked to EVs, the differences between electric and combustion vehicles, and measures that can help mitigate incidents in enclosed parking environments.

The organisation explained that electric vehicle design creates barriers to delivering extinguishing agents to battery cells, making thermal runaway events difficult to contain once started.

It stated that the session will be led by Gerd Hülsen, Vice Chair of the Euralarm Extinguishing Section, and will focus on practical steps to address identified challenges.

The group added that the event will be relevant to both technical specialists and decision makers at local, national and European levels.

Focus on thermal battery risks

Euralarm reported that thermal runaway inside traction batteries is one of the most difficult aspects of EV fire safety.

It explained that while EV battery enclosures protect against water spray, weather and impacts during normal use, these same protections create obstacles to applying extinguishing media during a fire.

The organisation advised that once cells enter runaway, it is extremely challenging to stop the process or prevent propagation between cells.

It added that this creates risks that differ from those typically encountered in internal combustion engine vehicles.

The body confirmed that these topics will form part of the October session.

Comparing EVs and combustion vehicles

Euralarm outlined that the webinar will review differences in fire behaviour between EVs and conventional combustion engine cars.

It said that combustion vehicles present known risks based on liquid fuel ignition, whereas EVs involve battery-specific dynamics that require different strategies.

The organisation noted that the event will provide context on how both vehicle types can behave during a fire in parking garages.

It added that the comparison aims to clarify where additional measures may be necessary in EV contexts.

The group confirmed that safety measures for both categories will be considered.

Target audience for the session

Euralarm explained that the webinar is intended for a wide audience of stakeholders.

It reported that fire safety professionals, parking facility operators, and facility managers are among the key groups expected to benefit.

It added that policymakers and regulators at municipal, national and EU levels may also find the information relevant.

The organisation stated that technology specialists, system integrators and installers will also be addressed.

The body noted that the session is positioned to provide factual information for varied professional needs.

Presentation and content

Euralarm confirmed that the webinar will be presented by Gerd Hülsen.

It said Hülsen will outline factual information on fire risks of EVs in parking facilities in comparison with other vehicles.

The organisation explained that the session will guide participants through available solutions and mitigation measures.

It added that the agenda includes fire behaviour discussions and safety measures relevant to both electric and combustion vehicle categories.

The body indicated that the information will be structured to support technical understanding and operational decision making.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Fire safety professionals will receive technical insights on challenges specific to EV incidents in enclosed parking structures.

The session will provide comparative data on electric and combustion vehicle fire behaviours.

It will also set out mitigation measures that can be applied in operational and regulatory contexts.

Professionals may find the information relevant for designing, managing, or regulating parking facilities with growing EV use.

Fire safety webinar to examine EV parking garage risks: Summary

Euralarm will hold a webinar on fire safety in electric vehicle parking garages on 14 October.

The webinar will focus on fire risks linked to EV traction batteries.

Euralarm explained that battery design makes extinguishment during thermal runaway difficult.

The group added that the webinar will compare EV and combustion vehicle fire risks.

It confirmed that solutions and mitigation measures will be discussed.

The session will be presented by Gerd Hülsen, Vice Chair of the Euralarm Extinguishing Section.

It is intended for fire safety professionals, parking facility operators, facility managers, policymakers, and system integrators.

The organisation reported that the content will provide factual information for operational and regulatory use.

The group advised that the webinar will take place online.

It added that participants will receive structured technical guidance.

Telgian to present fire alarm system commissioning webinar

by EventsFeatured NewsFire DetectionTraining

Webinar to explore fire alarm commissioning in the US

Telgian has announced that Jim Burian, Regional Practice Leader at Telgian Engineering & Consulting, will lead a Fire Smarts webinar on fire alarm system commissioning on 14 August 2025.

According to the company, the 90-minute session will outline how commissioning ensures fire alarm systems are installed and operate according to design specifications.

The firm said the event will cover the goals of fire alarm commissioning, testing of components, documentation procedures, and stakeholder communication.

The session will take place from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm Eastern Time.

Registration for the session is open to fire protection professionals across the United States.

Commissioning process and testing procedures

According to Telgian, commissioning involves a verification and documentation process confirming that a fire alarm system functions according to its intended design.

The company said the session will examine how to test initiating devices for alarm conditions and tamper switches for supervisory alerts.

It added that the session will also review the verification of notification appliances during alarm scenarios.

Participants will be guided through each stage of the commissioning process.

Burian is expected to explain how commissioning impacts system performance and code compliance.

Documentation and stakeholder responsibilities

Telgian stated that the webinar will include a segment focused on documentation best practices.

The firm said this will include guidance on how commissioning information should be formatted and stored.

It added that guidance will also be given on how documents should be distributed to relevant parties.

The process is expected to include recommendations for improving traceability and accountability across stakeholders.

Telgian said documentation is a critical part of system handover.

Presenter background and qualifications

According to Telgian, Jim Burian brings extensive experience in fire protection design and compliance.

The company said he has led teams of engineers, designers and code consultants on projects across the Mid-West.

It added that he has managed product safety and compliance initiatives involving UL testing and approvals.

Burian holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

He is the current Chair of the Chicago Chapter of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers and an active member of AIA Chicago.

Course relevance for fire safety professionals

Telgian said the webinar is aimed at engineers, contractors, and code officials involved in fire alarm system design and installation.

It explained that the content will be relevant to both new system installations and upgrades.

The firm said the session will also provide insights for professionals involved in inspection and maintenance.

Burian will provide examples and case-based guidance during the session.

The company said continuing education credits may be available through Fire Smarts.

Telgian to present fire alarm system commissioning webinar: Summary

Telgian has announced a webinar on fire alarm system commissioning.

Jim Burian will lead the session on 14 August 2025 from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm ET.

The session will cover commissioning goals, testing procedures, documentation, and stakeholder responsibilities.

Burian is Regional Practice Leader at Telgian Engineering & Consulting.

He holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering and chairs the SPFE Chicago Chapter.

He has led design and compliance teams across the Mid-West.

The webinar will be hosted by Fire Smarts.

It is open to professionals involved in fire alarm system design, installation, and compliance.

APSEI webinar to cover fire protection for lithium-ion batteries in indoor car parks

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

Fire protection risks from lithium-ion batteries to be discussed in Portugal

The Portuguese Safety Association (APSEI) will hold a public webinar on fire protection for lithium-ion batteries on 8 July 2025 at 12:00 CET.

According to Euralarm, the session will be based on its technical guidance on lithium-ion battery fire safety and electric vehicles in enclosed parking structures.

The webinar will focus on how lithium-ion battery fires can start, and how these incidents can be detected, controlled and extinguished.

Euralarm reported that the session will also examine data comparing fire risk in electric vehicles with internal combustion engine vehicles in covered car parks.

The presentation will be led by Euralarm Technical Manager Carlos Perez and delivered in English.

Technical session based on Euralarm guidance documents

Euralarm stated that the session will use two guidance documents as its foundation.

One is focused on fire protection solutions for lithium-ion batteries.

The other explores safety practices for electric vehicles parked in enclosed areas.

Euralarm said both documents aim to support fire safety engineers, facility operators and regulators in understanding how lithium-ion battery systems pose risk in confined environments.

The organisation noted that the content will include reference to known failure modes of lithium-ion cells, and how best practice in detection and suppression has developed in response.

It added that attendees will be walked through existing solutions already in use across different EU member states.

EV fire risks in covered car parks

Euralarm explained that the webinar will include an overview of comparative fire risks between electric and conventional vehicles in indoor parking.

It stated that the focus will be on real-world data and applied analysis.

The organisation said the aim is to dispel misconceptions about EV fires, while also reinforcing the need for appropriate detection and suppression strategies tailored to battery-specific hazards.

It added that the session will identify scenarios where passive fire protection alone is not sufficient, and discuss the added value of integrated fire protection systems.

According to Euralarm, this will include ventilation considerations, fire resistance of surrounding materials, and access for emergency responders.

Presentation to be led by Carlos Perez

Euralarm confirmed that the speaker will be Carlos Perez, its Technical Manager since May 2024.

Perez is based in Barcelona and holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia.

He began his career in the design, certification and testing of gaseous extinguishing systems, later expanding into systems for kitchen fire protection.

According to Euralarm, Perez has taught courses internationally and chairs standardisation committees in Spain linked to both ISO and CEN.

It added that Perez contributes to working groups within ISO/TC 21 and CEN/TC 191, helping to shape European standards on fire protection systems.

The organisation confirmed that Perez will deliver the 8 July session in English.

Event registration and language details

The webinar is scheduled for 8 July 2025, starting at 12:00 CET.

It will be held online and is open to the public, according to Euralarm.

Registration information is available through the APSEI website.

Euralarm stated that the session will be delivered in English to accommodate an international audience.

It added that there will be opportunities for attendees to ask questions at the end of the presentation.

The association said this format is designed to promote technical dialogue and practical understanding of the issues covered.

APSEI webinar to cover fire protection for lithium-ion batteries in indoor car parks: Summary

The Portuguese Safety Association (APSEI) will hold a webinar on fire protection for lithium-ion batteries on 8 July 2025 at 12:00 CET.

The content will be based on Euralarm guidance for lithium-ion battery safety and electric vehicle fire risk in parking structures.

Euralarm reported that the presentation will be led by Technical Manager Carlos Perez.

The session will explain how lithium-ion battery fires can be detected, controlled and extinguished.

It will also compare fire risks between electric vehicles and petrol or diesel vehicles in enclosed car parks.

The session will identify solutions currently used across Europe.

It will explore how battery hazards affect building safety strategy.

The presentation will be delivered in English.

Carlos Perez has a PhD in Chemical Engineering and experience in system certification and fire protection engineering.

He participates in ISO and CEN fire standardisation work.

The webinar will be accessible via registration through APSEI’s official site.

FPA Australia announces fire safety seminars and webinars for 2025

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsTraining

Fire protection seminars and webinars scheduled for February and March

FPA Australia has announced a series of fire safety events for February and March 2025.

These in-person and online sessions will cover key industry topics, including bushfire sprinklers, fire door attachments, compliance, and baseline data.

The events will include expert panels and discussions on regulatory challenges, technological advancements, and professional accreditation requirements.

Fire safety professionals, building managers, and engineers are encouraged to participate.

Webinar on fire bolts and fire door attachments

FPA Australia will host a complimentary webinar on Monday, 3 March 2025, discussing fire bolts and fire door attachments.

The event will address the role of fire-activated retaining devices and the challenges associated with their installation and performance.

Chaired by Fiona Perrin, IFE Board Member and Senior Risk Engineer at Zurich Resilience Solutions, the panel will include Simon Rickard (FPA Australia), Stephen Kip (Skip Consulting), Chief Superintendent Steven Hayes (Fire & Rescue NSW), and Aaron Nicholson (RED Fire Engineers).

The webinar aims to provide insights into how fire bolts impact fire door functionality and compliance. Registrations are open until 10:00 am AEDT on 3 March 2025.

Bushfire sprinkler seminar to feature international experts

On Tuesday, 25 February 2025, FPA Australia will host a hybrid seminar focusing on bushfire sprinkler systems.

The session will discuss historical developments, research findings, and international applications of these systems.

Experts such as Dr Joseph Mitchell (M-bar Technologies), Dr Alan Green (University of Wollongong), and Dr Anne D. Cope (Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety) will share insights on the future of bushfire sprinklers in Australia.

The event will be held at United Co. in Fitzroy, Victoria, with in-person and online attendance options available. Registration closes on 21 February 2025.

Protect & Connect Northern Territory event scheduled for 20 February

A Protect & Connect networking and knowledge-sharing session will take place on Thursday, 20 February 2025, at Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront.

The event will focus on terminology and compliance in fire safety, specifically defects, non-compliances, and non-conformances.

Speakers will discuss how different terms in AS1851 impact system assessments and compliance.

The event will also introduce Chris Lees as the new State Manager for Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Registration closes on 19 February 2025.

Upcoming discussions on compliance and baseline data management

FPA Australia will also host two additional online sessions in March:

  • Tech Talks: Baseline Data (27 February 2025) will cover fire protection system benchmarking, regulatory requirements, and best practices for data management.
  • Accreditation Navigator: FPAS Compliance (18 March 2025) will address the FPAS auditing process and compliance management.

Both sessions will feature industry professionals providing insights into fire system maintenance and accreditation requirements.

FPA Australia announces fire safety seminars and webinars for 2025: Summary

FPA Australia has outlined its fire safety events for February and March 2025. The schedule includes webinars and in-person seminars on compliance, fire system management, and industry standards.

Key events include:

  • Fire bolts and fire door attachments webinar (3 March 2025)
  • Bushfire sprinkler seminar (25 February 2025)
  • Protect & Connect Northern Territory (20 February 2025)
  • Tech Talks: Baseline Data (27 February 2025)
  • Accreditation Navigator: FPAS Compliance (18 March 2025)

These events will feature experts from FPA Australia, Fire & Rescue NSW, the Institute of Fire Engineers, and other industry bodies. Sessions will cover fire safety regulations, risk management, and emerging fire protection technologies.

Euralarm to host live webinar on the Digital Decade

by EventsFeatured News

“Europe aims to empower businesses and people”: Euralarm webinar on the Digital Decade

Euralarm has announced a live webinar titled “Guiding You Through the Digital Decade” scheduled for June 26 from 16:00 to 17:30 CET.

The webinar aims to address the implications of Europe’s Digital Decade policy for the fire safety and security industry, focusing on the challenges and priorities within this sector.

Europe’s digital transformation goals

Europe’s Digital Decade policy programme aims to create a human-centred, sustainable, and more prosperous digital future.

The programme sets concrete targets and objectives for 2030, guiding the continent’s digital transformation.

Impact on fire safety and security industry

The webinar will explore what the Digital Decade means for the fire safety and security industry.

Participants will gain insights into the challenges and priorities facing the industry as it navigates this digital transformation.

Registration and participation

Seats for the webinar can be booked through the following link: Webinar Registration.

This event offers an opportunity for industry professionals to stay informed about upcoming changes and strategies related to digital transformation.

Join pinfa’s free webinar to explore EU sustainability regulations and PIN flame retardants

by EventsFeatured News

Overview of the webinar

Pinfa is set to host a free webinar on 28th February 2024, focusing on the European Union’s regulatory strategy for sustainable chemicals and the future of flame retardants.

This session aims to provide key updates on the EU Green Deal, Zero Pollution Action Plan, and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) Regulatory Strategy for Flame Retardants.

It will also delve into how these developments will influence the use of flame retardants in Europe and globally.

Expert speakers and topics

The webinar will feature insights from Adrian Beard, who is responsible for Flame Retardant (FR) advocacy at Clariant and serves as the Chairman of pinfa.

Joining him will be Peter Fisk, the founder of Green Chemical Design Ltd.

Together, they will discuss the opportunities for Phosphorus, Inorganic and Nitrogen (PIN) flame retardants in fostering innovative and safe responses to industry needs, ensuring sustainable fire safety.

Webinar details and registration

Scheduled for the 28th February 2024, from 11:30 to 12:30 ET (16:30 to 17:30 CET), the 7th pinfa-NA Listen & Learn webinar invites industry professionals, policymakers, and interested individuals to participate in this informative session.

Attendees are encouraged to register for free through the pinfa-NA website to gain valuable insights into sustainable chemical regulations and the role of PIN flame retardants in achieving these goals.

IFSJ Comment

By focusing on the regulatory landscape and the potential of PIN flame retardants, this event underscores the importance of innovation and safety in meeting sustainability goals.

The collaboration between experts such as Adrian Beard and Peter Fisk highlights the collective effort required to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by new regulations.

As the industry moves towards more sustainable practices, such initiatives play a crucial role in guiding companies and ensuring that fire safety solutions align with environmental objectives.

Euralarm and partners to host a webinar focusing on talent attraction in the fire safety sector

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

During the initial stages of the European Fire Safety Week, leading organisations including Euralarm, Eurolux, the European Association for Passive Fire Protection (EAPFP), and the Modern Building Alliance have announced a collaborative webinar.

The online event, titled “Attracting talent: a fire safety sector fit for the future”, will be held on November 13, commencing at 13.30 CET.

Significance of fire safety in modern construction

Fire safety stands as a pivotal component in contemporary building design and renovation processes.

With the advent of the new Energy Performance in Buildings Directive, the renovation rate of European structures is predicted to surge.

This directive provides an invaluable opportunity to seamlessly incorporate advanced fire safety solutions, ensuring enhanced protection for the European populace during fire emergencies.

The broad domain of fire safety not only plays a crucial role in residential contexts but also influences our interaction with community infrastructures such as hospitals, shopping complexes, educational institutions, and more.

Technological advancements demand new skills

The rapid progression of technology enables buildings to cater to inhabitants’ requirements more effectively.

This efficiency extends to streamlining building management operations and optimising energy consumption throughout the building’s lifespan.

Nevertheless, such advancements come with the prerequisite of cultivating new skill sets within the construction domain.

Challenges and prospects in the fire safety industry

In recent times, the fire safety sector has confronted hurdles in acquiring adept professionals.

Despite these challenges, with the impending workforce scarcity, prospects within the fire safety realm are anticipated to amplify.

Now, more than ever, the fire safety sector needs to attract talent in order to thrive.

The overarching goals of initiatives such as the Renovation Wave and the Digital Transition in Europe underscore this necessity.

Program overview and registration details

The webinar will commence with an introduction to the European Fire Safety Week 2023, followed by sessions discussing avenues to make the fire safety industry alluring for fresh talents and strategies to recruit proficient technicians.

The program will culminate with discussions focusing on the educational and qualification requisites for the fire safety sector.

For detailed insights into the webinar’s agenda and registration information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official European Fire Safety Week website or directly access the event’s registration page.

IFSJ Comment

The collaboration between Euralarm, Eurolux, EAPFP, and the Modern Building Alliance underscores the criticality of talent acquisition in the fire safety sector.

With European infrastructure poised to undergo substantial renovations, integrating advanced fire safety solutions becomes paramount.

Furthermore, as technology continues to evolve, the need for cultivating diverse skill sets in the fire safety domain gains prominence.

This webinar serves as a timely initiative, offering insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of the modern fire safety landscape.

New building safety regime discussed in upcoming fire safety webinar

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Updates on the Building Safety Act implementation: what fire safety professionals should know

Fire safety professionals are gearing up to attend two webinars set for 5 and 6 September 2023.

The purpose of these sessions is to offer insights on the ongoing Building Safety Act implementation programme and introduce professionals to impending changes.

Earlier in 2023, the Government rolled out the Higher-Risk Buildings Regulations.

These regulations necessitate that the Principal Accountable Person register high-risk buildings with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) by 1 October 2023.

Industry progress and registration insights from Dame Judith Hackitt

As the mentioned deadline draws closer, Dame Judith Hackitt has been slated to speak at FireDNA’s webinars titled “All buildings, all builders – an essential guide to the widespread impacts of the new building safety regime”.

Hackitt will provide her perspective on the strides made by the industry and give an update on the volume of buildings registered with the BSR thus far.

Tony Millen, from FireDNA, voiced: “These webinars will highlight the importance of everyone in the supply chain taking responsibility for their role in contributing to, maintaining and managing building safety information.

“Everyone in the industry has a key role to play in making buildings safer.”

On 5 September, Dame Judith Hackitt will collaborate with architects Buckley Gray Yeoman and Ballymore Asset Management Ltd.

The conversation will revolve around the Building Safety Act’s ripple effects through the supply chain, predicted changes in the ensuing 18 months, and adjustments to ongoing projects to align with the new laws.

Construction products and competency in focus for fire safety webinar

The session on 6 September will pivot towards the nitty-gritty of construction products and the proficiency of individuals handling life safety products.

Notable industry figures, including Hanna Clarke of the Construction Products Association (CPA), Iain McIlwee of The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS), and others, will delve into the intricacies of ensuring product information is precise and consistently transferred from its origin to its eventual use in buildings.

Furthermore, discussions will shed light on third-party certification and the challenges faced by organisations in assimilating the Building Safety Act.

These webinars are being presented by FireDNA in collaboration with the NBS, FIS, and GAI.

For those interested in participating, details and registration options are available at the FireDNA website.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction and subsequent implementation of the Building Safety Act will invariably alter the landscape of fire safety.

With renowned experts offering their insights and expertise in these webinars, professionals across the board can gain a deeper understanding of the impending changes and their broader implications.

Equipped with this knowledge, the industry can move forward in unison, ensuring that the overarching goal of building safety remains a top priority.