Fire Australia Magazine | Issue 2 2023

DATA-DRIVEN AERIAL FIREFIGHTING

FIRE SAFETY IN A NET ZERO WORLD

STRENGTHENING THE SOCIAL LICENCE FOR PRESCRIBED BURNING

FIRE AUSTRALIA 2023 RETURNS TO ICC SYDNEY

SAFETY LESSONS FROM THE GRENFELL DISASTER

JOHN KILGOUR Chief Executive Officer, FPA Australia

Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dame Judith Hackitt DBE, the author of the UK’s Hackitt Report into the Grenfell disaster.

Dame Judith was in Australia advising the NSW and Victorian governments about their responses to cladding concerns and possible regulatory changes to make buildings and communities safer.

A chemical engineer by training, she brought an understanding to the inquiry about the science behind the Grenfell fire, noting in her report that:

“there is a need for a radical rethink of the whole [regulatory] system and how it works. This is most definitely not just a question of the specification of cladding systems, but of an industry that has not reflected and learned for itself, nor looked to other sectors”

This view is not restricted to the UK, with Dame Judith suggesting that Australian governments have been unwise not to think that a similar tragedy could happen in this country and criticising them for being relatively slow to act.

She said an assumption that the presence of sprinklers—one of the big differences between Grenfell and buildings in Australia— would prevent a similar disaster from happening here was “pretty foolhardy behaviour” and unhelpful, identifying problems with the Lacrosse, Neo200, and Opal Towers as the consequences of a construction industry that was “not held to account for what it built”.

Dame Judith is applying herself to the issue of improving building safety culture in her home country, and advising other governments of what they should be doing. She highlighted that the adoption of fire safety reforms recommended in the Building Confidence (Shergold–Weir) report, provides a solid foundation for this.

We hope the insights and experience she brings to the task will help to reform construction globally and to adopt safer working practices.

As part of Fire Australia 2023, John will be prerecording an interview with Dame Judith about her findings and the lessons that need to be learned by the fire protection sector. The interview will be aired at the Conference at 9 am on Wednesday 3 May 2023.

IN THIS ISSUE

14 Rethinking fire safety in a Net Zero world

16 Using data to enhance aerial firefighting decision-making

18 Prescribed burning: strengthening the social licence to use fire in the landscape

21 Advancing Australia’s green future

22 Seeing the unseen with thermal imaging cameras

24 Rising to the challenge of post-disaster buybacks and rebuilding

27 Black Summer research report increases understanding of bushfires

28 Fire Australia 2023 Conference and Tradeshow: a preview

34 Park up, plug in: managing electric vehicles

35

A special interest in Lithium batteries

36 AFAC23: exploring a sustainable future for emergency management

38 Lessons Management Forum: closing the loop

40

Monitored performance

43 Emergency Warning Systems

46 Seasonal Bushfire Outlook

48 Building cladding with recycled glass scores sky-high results in sustainability

50 Nominate now for 2023–24 Australian Institute of Police Management leadership programs

REGULAR FEATURES

4 News

OUR COVER

Celebrate excellence and help to raise money for the Fiona Wood Foundation at the Fire Australia 2023 Conference and Awards Gala.

ABOUT FIRE AUSTRALIA

52 Q&A: perspectives from the sector

54 Burning ambition

56 Blast from the past

57 Standards update

58 Calendar

ADVERTISING LISTING

5

To advertise in Fire Australia, contact: Paul Waterhouse, magazine@fpaa.com.au

FPA Australia, PO Box 1049, Box Hill VIC 3128, Australia

Fire Australia is a joint publication of Fire Protection Association Australia and AFAC. We aim to bring the latest news, developments and technical information to the fire protection industry, fire and emergency services organisations, and hazard and emergency management agencies. Fire Australia is produced quarterly and distributed throughout Australia and New Zealand. Editorial submissions and letters to the editor are welcome and can be sent to magazine@fpaa.com.au. For more details on submitting a contribution, please contact the editors.

JOINT

PAUL WATERHOUSE (FPA Australia)

Tel +61 3 8892 3133 paul.waterhouse@fpaa.com.au

ALANA BEITZ (AFAC)

Tel +61 3 9418 5233 alana.beitz@afac.com.au

Fire Australia magazine is printed

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DISCLAIMER The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of FPA Australia or AFAC. Articles and advertisements are published in good faith but Fire Australia magazine and its agents do not warrant the accuracy or currency of any information or data contained herein. Fire Australia magazine and its agents do not accept any responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to the material in this publication. It is not possible for FPA Australia to ensure that advertisements published in this magazine comply in all respects with the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and the provisions which apply to advertising. Responsibility lies with the person, company or agency submitting the advertisement for publication. Material in Fire Australia magazine is subject to copyright. This publication may not be reproduced in printed or electronic form without permission. Contact +61 3 8892 3131

PHOTO: FPA AUSTRALIA

VALE JON O’NEILL

We were recently saddened by the passing of Jonathan O’Neill OBE, managing director of the Fire Protection Association UK, after a long illness.

A graduate of economics and history, Jon led the association after it separated from the Loss Prevention Council in 1999, having previously worked in the insurance industry.

He served on numerous government, ministerial, and sector advisory bodies and represented UK insurers on the Prevention Forum of Insurance Europe, being awarded an OBE for services to fire safety in June 2017.

He was a passionate advocate for fire safety and made a significant contribution to this field in his 24 years at the head of FPA UK and as a founder of the Fire Sector Federation.

FPA Australia extends its condolences to Jonathan’s family, friends, and colleagues.

FPA UK’s announcement about Jonathan’s passing can be found at www.thefpa.co.uk/ news/jonathan-o-neill-obe-1963-2023.

Jon’s funeral was on Thursday, 23 March, 2023, at St James’ Church, Church Street, Harvington, Evesham, Worcestershire.

If you would like to sign the online book of condolence, or make a donation to St. Richard’s Hospice, visit: https://jonathanoneill.muchloved.com/

Jonathan O’Neill OBE

AFAC MARKS 30 YEARS WITH REFRESHED STRATEGIC PLAN

For 30 years, AFAC has played a key role in building a connected and capable emergency management system and sector across Australia and New Zealand. This remains AFAC’s vision and focus as it supports its membership to pursue and deliver agreed and shared goals.

The new AFAC Strategic Plan 2023–2027 defines the organisation’s purpose, strategic choices, and the outcomes it is committed to delivering, including:

„ AFAC’s Vision: Connected and capable emergency management.

„ AFAC’s Purpose: AFAC delivers value to our members by amplifying the collective capability and capacity of emergency management organisations. We enable connection, collaboration, and innovation. We work together to achieve better outcomes for our sector and advance the safety and resilience of communities.

The five-year plan captures AFAC’s values, identity, and ways of working, as well as key drivers for the sector and strategic priorities, mapped to the Strategic Directions for fire and emergency services.

View the AFAC Strategic Plan 2023–2027 at www.afac.com.au/auxiliary/ about/strategy

AMENDMENTS PROPOSED TO THE FIRE PROTECTION ACCREDITATION SCHEME

FPA Australia has proposed some changes to its Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme (FPAS) scheme document, which are currently being reviewed by the NSW Department of Customer Service. For fire safety assessment (FSA), the changes will see a certificate pathway introduced for four statutory mechanical fire safety measures—fire dampers; mechanical air handling systems; smoke and heat vents; and smoke dampers.

ECOMMERCE COMES TO FIRE PROTECTION

Practitioners looking to purchase logbooks now have a much easier way of doing so, with the launch of FPA Australia’s online shop.

All of the guides and logbooks the Association currently offers can now be ordered through its new portal, reducing the need for printing and processing forms.

Browse for what you need or have

a look at the ‘Fire Sale’ section to pick up some older publications at a massive discount!

Make sure you are logged in to get member prices, and contact the FPA Australia team at shop@fpaa.com.au if you want to use a voucher. If you are having trouble logging in, call us on (03) 8892 3131 or email customerservice@fpaa.com.au and a member of the team can help.

Visit https://connect.fpaa.com.au/shop and start shopping today!

In fire systems design (FSD), the category will be expanded to include a class for ducted smoke control, the scheme document will include current qualification and units of competency codes, and the existing non-accredited design units will be replaced with an accredited unit.

An unrestricted pathway for fire safety assessors is still being planned and has not been included in the current change proposal. If the changes are approved, FPA Australia will run a series of information sessions to detail them.

PHOTO: ISTOCK

AFAC LAUNCHES INAUGURAL POSITION ON LAND USE PLANNING

Hazards have been part of the natural environment for thousands of years. However, the intensity and frequency of disasters is increasing, exacerbated by climate change. This is relevant to how planning is carried out in urban and rural areas as growing populations and

urbanisation are increasing exposure to risk from natural hazards. Considering natural hazards in planning, siting, and design, and in building standards can improve resilience and reduce exposure of communities.

NATURAL HAZARDS RESEARCH FORUM 2023

The 2023 Natural Hazards Research Forum is coming to RMIT University, Melbourne, on 1–3 May.

Hosted by Natural Hazards Research Australia, the event will bring people together from research, government, industry, and community to share knowledge about natural hazards science. Come and contribute to the current state and future of natural hazards research in Australia—what it is, what is being done now, how it can be used, and what should be done in future.

Sessions will cover the main themes across Natural Hazards Research Australia’s research program, including disaster risk reduction and resilience, learning from recent disasters (including the 2022 eastern Australia floods and Black Summer bushfires), evidence-informed policy and strategy, community resilience, healthy landscapes, situational awareness, operational response and innovation, workforces of the future, and much more.

The Natural Hazards Research Forum will ensure the research of the Centre is relevant, useful, and dynamic to the changing needs of our society.

Find out more and register at www.naturalhazards.com.au/nhrf23.

The AFAC Land Use Planning Position states that “the protection of human life should be the first priority in all land use planning and policy decisions, and a collaborative approach should be used to advocate and influence safe, sustainable, and effective land use planning decisions. These decisions should balance the need for land development and the protection of human, environmental, cultural and social values for current and future generations”.

AFAC’s position on land use planning is based on its understanding of, and evidence-based research into, the effectiveness of the role of planning in reducing risk from natural hazards. It adopts the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience’s 12 principles to support agencies in the development of best practice.

The position represents the collective view of AFAC Member Agencies about the principles that underpin their work to protect lives and property through effective land use planning and the actions involved in applying them.

Land use planning influences the resilience of Australian communities.

It was prepared by AFAC’s Community Safety Group, SES Community Safety Group, Built Environment and Planning Technical Group (Bushfire Planning), and the Climate Change Group.

See the AFAC Land Use Planning Position online: www.afac.com.au/ insight/doctrine/article/current/landuse-planning-position.

PHOTO: NATURAL HAZARDS RESEARCH AUSTRALIA

PHOTO: FILEDIMAGE

The Natural Hazards Research Forum offers three days of knowledge and insights.

RECOVERY EXERCISE TOOLKIT

Consecutive disasters across Australia have often left communities with little or no time to recover before the next disaster hits, placing communities in a state of constant and complex recovery. The increasing frequency of disasters and more protracted recoveries mean that planning and exercising for recovery is more important than ever.

Recovery exercises provide the opportunity for a dedicated focus on recovery that goes beyond immediate relief and early recovery and allows for an in-depth exploration of recovery issues over time. The Recovery Exercising Toolkit contains evidencebased guidance and is based on the nationally recognised exercise management methodology. It can be used to support exercise management

programs to include a recovery exercise component whenever exercises are conducted.

The Toolkit was developed by the National Emergency Management Agency and the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience (AIDR) and is part of the Australian Government’s $4.5 million National Capability Package aimed at strengthening Australia’s resilience and enhancing the capability to prepare for, recover from, and reduce the effects of natural disasters on Australian communities.

Explore the resources available through the Recovery Exercising Toolkit on the AIDR Knowledge Hub: https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/ resources/recovery-exercising-toolkit.

SHOWCASE YOUR RESILIENCE

The Resilient Australia Awards celebrate and promote initiatives that build whole of community resilience to disasters and emergencies around Australia, and images that capture community resilience in action. The awards recognise collaboration and innovative thinking across all sectors.

The awards are now open for submissions nationally across seven categories: business, community, government, local government, mental health and wellbeing, school, and photography.

They recognise a wide range of initiatives with past projects centred on risk assessment and mitigation, mental health and wellbeing, education, training and research, and community engagement, as well as response and recovery.

State and territory winners in each category are considered for

the national awards, and benefit from national exposure through a range of communication channels.

Entries in the 2023 awards program must relate to projects or initiatives that commenced after 1 January 2021 or demonstrate significant outcomes or enhancements since 1 January 2021. Submissions close Monday 5 June 2023.

The Resilient Australia Awards are proudly sponsored by the Australian Government in partnership with the states and territories and managed by the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience.

For further information, including how to submit, and to see previous Resilient Australia Award winners, visit www.aidr.org.au/raa

PHOTO: AIDR

National Emergency Management Agency Coordinator General Brendan Moon presents the 2022 Resilient Australia National Award to the Safer Together Victoria team.

DIPLOMA OF BUSHFIRE PROTECTION ASSESSMENT

In October 2022, the Australian Industry and Skills Committee approved CPP5122 Diploma of Bushfire Protection Assessment, which addresses workforce challenges and skills shortages in bushfire planning and design.

Endorsed by Skills Ministers and listed on training.gov.au on 19 December 2022, the qualification covers bushfire protection assessment and the application of relevant planning, development, and building regulatory requirements to bushfire-prone areas.

FPA Australia is currently applying to add this qualification to its scope of registration and the registered training organisation team is working with industry professionals to develop course materials. It aims to open the course for enrolments in the second half of 2023.

A recognition of prior learning (RPL) process will be available for prospective

GOVERNMENT TRAINING FUNDING AVAILABLE

students who have completed the Bushfire Attack Level course with FPA Australia and have maintained industry currency, subject to FPA Australia’s RPL policy, procedures, requirements, and possible gap assessments.

To register your interest, or if you would like to contribute to the development and review of course material, and/or be considered as a potential trainer and assessor, you can contact the team at training@fpaa.com.au

If you or your staff have decided to enrol in the CPP20521 Certificate II or CPP30821 Certificate III in Fire Protection Inspection and Testing, the Australian Government may be able to subsidise your costs.

Read about some of the funding programs below or contact the team on training@fpaa.com.au to enquire about enrolments.

THE HIRING INCENTIVE

The government currently offers a hiring incentive to enrol eligible employees in the CPP20521 Certificate II in Fire Protection Inspection and Testing.

Eligible employers and group training organisations that hire a new worker Australian Apprentice in non-priority occupations can

claim up to a maximum of $3,500 for full-time apprentices and $1,750 for part-time apprentices, paid in two equal instalments at six and 12 months.

Trainees must be new employees and not less than three months into full-time employment, or not less than 12 months into part-time or casual employment.

To check whether you are eligible, or to find out more, contact an Australian Apprentice Support Network provider through www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/search-aasn.

THE SKILLS CHECKPOINT FOR OLDER WORKERS PROGRAM

Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme (FPAS) practitioners holding fire safety assessment (FSA) or fire systems design (FSD) accreditation and funding their own training may be eligible for the Skills Checkpoint for Older Workers program, run by Busy at Work.

The program is open to up to 10,000 Australians aged 40 or over per year, providing guidance on transitioning into a new career, or upskilling advice for their current roles.

Contact www.busyatwork.com.au to find out more or to check your eligibility.

THE SMALL BUSINESS SKILLS AND TRAINING BOOST

A proposed skill and training boost for small businesses has not yet become law, but is expected to pass in 2023.

Information about the boost, and what it might mean for you and your business, can be found at https://tinyurl.com/3y2e64t8

PHOTO: FPA AUSTRALIA

PHOTO: UNSPLASH

DESIGN AND BUILDING PRACTITIONER REQUIREMENTS IN NSW TO APPLY TO CLASS 3 AND 9C BUILDS FROM JULY

The NSW Building Legislation Amendment (Building Classes) Regulation 2023 was published on Friday 24 February 2023.

The Amendment Regulation expands the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 and Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Act 2020 to new Class 3 and 9c buildings commencing work on or after 3 July 2023. Existing Class 3 and 9c buildings that require alterations or renovations will be subject to the changes from 1 July 2024.

The NSW Government has expanded into the additional classes in an effort to restore public confidence in the building and construction industry, ensure the safety of buildings, improve customer service, and gather better data throughout the life cycle of buildings.

For more information, visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/news-andupdates/notices/changes-coming-class-3and-9c-buildings-2023

NSW FIRE SAFETY REFORMS

The next round of amendments from the Environmental Planning and Assessment (Development Certification and Fire Safety) Amendment (Fire Safety) Regulation 2022 came into force on 13 February 2023. These changes mean that:

„ councils and certifiers (in certain circumstances) can reissue fire safety schedules if they are lost, destroyed, or incorrect (section 80A)

„ building owners must issue a copy of the fire safety certificate to their building practitioner (as defined in the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020) (section 85)

„ the penalties for failing to issue a certificate are reduced (section 85(1)), but those for failing to display the certificate are unchanged

„ a fire safety certificate is now deemed a required document under clause 18(2)(d) of the Design and Building Practitioners Regulation 2021.

Some of the amendments passed in December are already in place, including:

„ minor wording changes and clarifications

„ the need for a compliance certificate to support a performance solution report (section 40(2)(b))

„ removal of the need for a compliance certificate in relation to a fire safety order from the Fire Commissioner or an authorised fire officer (section 80(4))

„ notes (under section 83) specifying when a final fire safety certificate needs to be issued

„ a requirement that a measure must be assessed in the three months before the fire safety certificate is issued (section 84) (the requirement for this to be done by an accredited practitioner (fire safety) who has not installed will not commence until 13 February 2025, or 18 months after a relevant approval is published in the Government Gazette, whichever comes first)

„ specification of the details required from an accredited practitioner (fire safety) who issues the fire safety certificate (section 86)

„ the introduction of the term ‘recognised person’ in the Dictionary (Schedule 2).

For more information, visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/news-and-updates/notices/ reforms-to-fire-safety-regulation-2022

PHOTO: KAROLINA GRABOWSKA / PEXELS

PHOTO: PEXELS

WEARABLE TECH TO SAVE THE LIVES OF FIREFIGHTERS

A cost-effective invention aimed at preventing up to half of all firefighter deaths each year is being developed as part of a University of Queensland entrepreneurship program.

Faculty of Science student Tiarna McElligott is designing wearable exertion monitoring technology that will detect physical stress in firefighters, which was responsible for 54% of firefighter deaths on the job in the US in 2020.

She is working to refine her prototype vest so that it is compact, compatible with existing clothing and equipment, and able to keep track of the warning signs of overexertion— heart rate, blood oxygen concentration and body temperature—so that the wearer knows when they are facing increasing risks.

The system is a collection of electronic sensors, a processing unit, and a radio transmitter in a small and portable piece of equipment, rather than something that is incorporated into the firefighter’s turnout kit.

The system will receive clinical data from the wearable unit, working with the processes and technology already in use by fire services, so that a support person outside the immediate fire zone can monitor the data feed during an emergency.

“We are looking at how the device and the monitor, perhaps as part of an existing breathing apparatus system, would communicate with each other and ultimately protect lives,” Ms McElligott said.

University of Queensland is developing a new way to monitor firefighter health while on the job.

PHOTO: PEXELS

PHOTO: SPENCER DAVIS / UNSPLASH

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We have an established and extensive presence in Australia including at our NATA accredited laboratory in Melbourne and our offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Perth.

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RETHINKING FIRE SAFETY IN A NET ZERO WORLD

Fire protection services will need to adapt to new technologies and systems to maintain holistic fire safety strategies, as new or existing facilities transition to net zero.

of electrical fires, as it involves the installation and use of new equipment and wiring that could potentially ignite under certain conditions. For example:

hazard, such as the failure of a lithiumion battery causing thermal runaway, an intense fire event, or noxious fumes.

Collaboration between fire protection services professionals, building owners, facility managers, and regulatory bodies will be essential to ensure the transition to net zero is achieved safely.

So, what are the key fire safety considerations in a ‘net zero world’?

Electrification

Increased electrification is a significant pathway to achieving net zero targets, typically involving the installation of photovoltaics (PV), heat pumps to replace natural gas boilers, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, battery storage, induction cooking equipment, portable electronic equipment, and so on. However, this technology is a new variable in the built environment and poses new fire safety challenges not considered and/or addressed to date by codes and standards.

Electrification can increase the risk

„ faulty, or improperly installed, wiring or electrical equipment, which can short circuit, generating heat, sparks, or arcing, and potentially igniting nearby combustible materials

„ overloaded electrical infrastructure that has not been properly designed to cater for the new electrical loads in the building, leading to overheating and increasing the likelihood of a fire

„ EV charging stations that:

ƒ have not been installed in structurally appropriate or wellventilated areas

ƒ are located near combustible materials, or

ƒ are not inspected and maintained on a regular basis as per manufacturer guidelines and the local authority having jurisdiction. Installed fire safety systems may not be adequate for this potential new fire

To minimise these fire risks, it is important to ensure qualified professionals are installing electrical equipment and wiring, and that these systems are regularly inspected and maintained. Fire detection and suppression systems should also be installed and regularly maintained properly to provide early warning and response in the event of a fire.

Performance-based design (fire engineering)

National Construction Code deemedto-satisfy provisions may need to be re-evaluated to address the risks of new technologies and new fire hazards in the pursuit of net zero emission targets. Similarly, the efficacy of fire safety systems should be assessed before any upgrades to ensure electrification does not compromise a building’s fire safety strategy.

Due to the rapid advances in

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

MARCUS ROYLE

AG Coombs Advisory

technology in the built environment, performance-based design (fire engineering) may play a crucial role in the next few years in bridging this gap. But it is also part of the problem.

Over the past 30 years, performance-based design has been widely used in commercial buildings, providing architectural and cost advantages. However, this poses a risk in a net zero world because the lack of uniformity and increased complexity of performance-based design buildings may not appropriately assess the new fire hazards introduced by the transition to net zero. It potentially makes it difficult for some facility operators, designers, builders, and regulators to apply required measures to protect existing facilities. Designers looking to move to net zero should consider whether:

„ an existing building’s fire resistance levels are at a level that may be unsuitable for an EV type of fire

„ modified egress provisions exist, leaving no alternative egress paths available for occupants

„ advanced fire systems may be required to detect lithium-ion battery gases

„ the existing fire sprinkler protection systems have been installed to Australian standards; for example, coverage may not be provided to basement carpark aisles

„ reduced pressure and flow of the fire hydrant system is suitable for EV, PV, and battery storage-type fires

„ the existing performance-based fire safety strategy is complex and difficult to maintain.

To address these problems, a consistent national approach is needed, such as a national guideline or standard for performance-based design, and appropriate training and education for designers and regulators. The use of performance-based design must be carefully balanced with the need for consistent and effective fire safety measures to protect the built environment, as it changes to meet net zero targets.

Mass timber construction

Mass timber construction has emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional construction methods, and in a net zero world its application is only going to increase. However, it is important to be aware of and properly address the potential fire hazards associated with it, for example:

„ combustibility: as mass timber is a combustible material it poses a

significant fire risk, because it can cause fire to spread rapidly through a building when it is exposed to heat

„ structural damage: in the event of a fire, mass timber can become weakened and damaged, leading to structural collapse

„ fire suppression: unlike concrete or steel, mass timber does not have inherent fire resistance and may require additional fire protection measures, such as the installation of a fire sprinkler system above the minimum building code provisions. To mitigate these fire hazards, fire safety measures are typically incorporated into the design and construction of mass timber buildings, including the installation of fire sprinkler systems, fire detection systems, and fire-rated barriers. Work is already underway to develop changes to building codes and standards that will ensure that mass timber buildings meet stringent fire safety requirements.

It is also important to conduct regular inspections and maintenance of fire safety systems in mass timber buildings to ensure that they are functioning properly in the event of a fire.

Water and material waste

When the term ‘green fire’ originated about 20 years ago, water usage and material selection were identified as two major considerations in seeking a sustainable fire protection solution. Initiatives recognised by the Green Building Council of Australia focused on saving water during maintenance and system upgrade activities and using alternative material types with lower environmental impacts for installation.

However, other environmental impacts have been emerging, including:

„ the significant water usage required to fight fires in non-sprinklered buildings, and the subsequent runoff pollution impacts on the surrounding environment

„ fire damage to stored commodities and/or property, which sees damaged materials typically going to landfill and requiring replacement, leading to further resource consumption and carbon impacts. In both instances, the installation of fire sprinklers is a useful remedy that is also likely to be recognised with a reduction in insurance premiums.

In 2010, FM Global and the US Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition conducted a joint study to investigate the effectiveness of home fire sprinkler systems in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fire damage,

water usage, and water pollution. The study found that:

„ the installation of home fire sprinkler systems can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with a 98% reduction observed in the structure equipped with the sprinkler system

„ the installation of home fire sprinkler systems can reduce fire damage by up to 97%

„ water usage to fight a home fire was reduced by upwards of 90%

„ the installation of home fire sprinkler systems can also reduce the amount of water pollution released into the environment.

Extending this to the broader built environment, the study provides strong evidence in support of the installation of fire sprinkler systems as an effective way to reduce the environmental impact of fires.

Conclusion

It is evident that there are challenges ahead in ensuring fire safety in buildings as they transition to a net zero world. To address these challenges, fire protection services professionals, building owners, facility managers, and regulatory bodies need to work together to identify the issues and remedy them through timely and appropriate regulation, design guidance, and the proper installation and maintenance of fire safety systems.

PHOTO: PEXELS

With a growing focus on going ‘net zero’, designers need to balance the desire for sustainability with any potential fire safety risks.

USING DATA TO ENHANCE AERIAL FIREFIGHTING DECISION-MAKING

Drawing on a decade of aerial firefighting data, a new research project will analyse the effectiveness and efficiency of Australia’s current fleet to inform future investment and operations. Empowered with this evidence, fire authorities can obtain and deploy the most suitable aircraft based on the operating environment and the task at hand.

environmental conditions in which the fleet is operating varies greatly.

The use of aircraft in firefighting is one of the most expensive components of response and mitigation, and the ability to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the aviation firefighting fleet remains a long-standing challenge for the sector.

To an outsider, aerial firefighting may be simplistically perceived as tankers and helicopters dropping water or retardant on a fire. But the practice, as well as the various possible uses of the fleet, is much broader and more complex. Likewise, the landscapes and

It is this complexity that a new research project, Why Fly: Assessing the Effectiveness of Aerial Firefighting, will try to address. Commencing in 2023 and led by Natural Hazards Research Australia in partnership with the AFAC National Aerial Firefighting Centre (NAFC), the study aims to understand how to use aircraft more effectively for firefighting in Australia under a range of conditions.

The need for research into aerial suppression was identified by the 2020 Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements (rec. 8.2), the 2020 NSW Bushfire Inquiry (rec. 50),

and the Inquiry into the 2019–20 Victorian Fire Season (observation 7.10). The AFAC Board and the Australian Government have requested this project to improve the use, and manage costs, of aviation operations. The project is being coordinated through NAFC, in collaboration with researchers from CSIRO and University of Wollongong, and with fire agencies including NSW Rural Fire Service, Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Country Fire Authority Victoria, Tasmania Fire Service, Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA, and SA Country Fire Service.

SANDY WHIGHT AFAC

Below: The Why Fly research project will explore the effectiveness of Australia’s aerial firefighting fleet across multiple uses.

Bottom right: A deep dive into aerial firefighting data will deliver a sound evidence base for future decision making.

Assessing Australia’s current aerial firefighting fleet

While there is existing evidence that aerial suppression is highly effective for initial fire attack, the study will go further to address the knowledge gaps where there is currently less data for more specific objectives, such as property protection, stopping or slowing fire progression, and performance during extended attack operations.

The effectiveness of aerial firefighting depends on a number of factors, including distance and time to travel to the location of the fire; type of aircraft deployed; weather conditions; rates of fire spread and fire intensity, size, and fuel type; pilot skill; type of suppressant used; and the tactics employed to respond to the fire. Considering these factors holistically will produce a robust use profile for Australia’s aerial firefighting fleet, and its efficacy.

Many of the particulars of aerial firefighting missions are captured in NAFC’s ARENA database. ARENA is an innovative system that supports the use of aircraft for fire and emergency response in Australia and New

Zealand. It is a registry of quality information about aerial firefighting resources such as aircraft and equipment; organisations and people; aircraft engagement and contracting; aircraft availability; aircraft activity; and administration.

The database now contains approximately 10 years of longitudinal data regarding deployment, activities, contracting, and use of aircraft in operations across Australia, and presents an excellent opportunity to understand better how the current fleet is being used now, to inform improved aircraft deployments in the future.

The Why Fly research project will apply a statistical and geospatial analysis over the data contained within ARENA to describe aerial platforms according to their efficacy and reliability for different contexts. The study will look to the previous activity of the sector to inform future activity, supported by the development of a sound evidence base to guide a variety of major strategic and operational fire aviation decisions and issues.

Putting knowledge into action

This project will provide a knowledge base to justify resource use, support future funding requests, and improve operational decisions, such as which aircraft to dispatch with what product for particular conditions, and which mix of aircraft to invest in. This will improve fire suppression outcomes, ultimately making communities safer, save lives and protect more community values.

Despite the prospect of financial savings, the main purpose of the project is to evaluate the effectiveness of the fleet, not its value for money. While the research will define what is both effective and efficient for

bushfire management, it will not draw any conclusions about the cost in dollar terms. Any budget benefits will be achieved through the delivery of reliable information to help fire agencies to select the optimal mix of aircraft according to objective and cost.

Benefits will also extend to policies and practice, where data analysis reveals information gaps in reporting, and how SOPs might be improved. This will help to create a lasting national database that can be applied to risk mitigation models. Likewise, the incorporation of research outcomes into ARENA’s Resource to Risk decision support tool will enable a rapid and widespread adoption of the results.

More broadly, the project will assess Australia’s aerial firefighting fleet, how it is used, and what is reasonable to expect from aviation operations. By showcasing the diversity of the fleet, and examining its limitations, the project aims to bring about cultural change in expectations and appreciation of the sector’s capability.

In an increasingly dynamic and complex operating environment such as aerial firefighting, a solid foundation of knowledge is invaluable for understanding the resources available and how they can be used. A decade of data generated by the sector’s aviation activity will inform capability and decision-making, and distilling this knowledge now means we are well placed to build a cycle of continuous improvement and innovation.

To learn more about the Why Fly: Assessing the Effectiveness of Aerial Firefighting research project, visit www.nafc.org.au/why-fly-researchproject

PHOTO: RICHARD HO

PHOTO: RICHARD HO

PRESCRIBED BURNING: STRENGTHENING THE SOCIAL LICENCE TO USE FIRE IN THE LANDSCAPE

Change and complexity now confront modern bushfire and land managers. Prescribed burning capability must be enhanced to support the practice into an uncertain future. While increasing technical skills and organisational capabilities are critical components of this, fostering leadership and building public trust play an equal role. For prescribed burn operations, a social licence to operate is as fundamental as a box of matches.

Above: Enhancing capability and community confidence are key factors to support the practice of prescribed burning in an increasingly complex landscape.

TREVOR HOWARD

AFAC

The use of fire by Traditional Owners over thousands of years managed and shaped Australia’s ecosystems. Settlers continued to burn the bush for agriculture and later forestry, and scientists pioneered research into the behaviour, ecology, use, and management of fire. But with changes to rural land use and industries, previously widespread knowledge and skills for using fire in the landscape have declined.

The ability of firefighters to use fire safely and effectively for backburning in bushfire suppression operations has also diminished. Agencies responsible for bushfire and land management have seen a steady decline in capacity and capability, often requiring significant effort to rebuild.1 New national initiatives being progressed

through AFAC aim to address this situation, building capability and enhancing professional development in the practice so fire managers can burn the bush with credibility and confidence.

The current climate

Burn planners, practitioners, and program managers now face many new challenges, including population growth, urbanisation, outdoor recreation, traffic management, smoke impacts, public safety, and environmental concerns. Those environmental concerns have often become a barrier to burning, as politicians, policy-makers and agency executives grapple with balancing the need for prescribed fire against strongly held and opposing viewpoints.

There is also much to be learned from northern Australia, which has retained a strong focus on using

fire across public and private lands. Broadscale burning for hazard reduction, property protection, grazing land management, biodiversity conservation, and more recently greenhouse gas abatement and carbon projects has maintained a strong knowledge and skills base.

Land returned under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 and the Native Title Act 1993 has allowed Traditional Owners to maintain connection to Country as well as many cultural practices.2 Aboriginal ranger groups are now planning, implementing, and managing fire programs from Cape York to the Kimberley and gaining carbon credits to support livelihoods, the ongoing management of Country, and self-determination.

Developing national capability

AFAC’s current strategic approach builds upon the National Burning Project

PHOTO: RYAN BUTLER

developed and conducted from 2011 to 2017. In the wake of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, the National Burning Project compiled a repository of best practice principles, frameworks, and guidelines to respond to the Royal Commission recommendation for an increase in burning programs. Meeting this and similar recommendations from other inquires also requires an experienced and skilled workforce of program managers and burn practitioners supported by professionals from a range of disciplines.

Instead, the practice of burning is facing declining numbers, knowledge, experience, and skills on one hand, and increasing complexity, expectations, and external scrutiny on the other. The National Burning Project played a crucial role in documenting existing knowledge and practices across Australia as well as extension efforts to raise awareness of this body of work. Much more is needed to meet the challenges of the future.

There is also a need to retain and strengthen the necessary political and public support for the use of fire in the landscape. While burn escapes are infrequent, those that do occur have the potential to negatively influence attitudes towards prescribed burning, while also providing valuable opportunities for

learning and improvement.3

Prescribed burning is also a proven learning environment from which the knowledge, experience, and skills acquired can be directly applied to firefighting and bushfire suppression, including conducting safe and effective backburns.4 Aerial ignition, which was pioneered in the 1960s, is not only an essential tool for implementing prescribed burns, but it can also be very effective in bushfire suppression operations when applied by experienced practitioners.5 While personnel in land management agencies have more access to such learning opportunities, this can be more challenging for rural fire services.

AFAC’s prescribed burning strategy incorporates these factors by taking a holistic approach to building national capability, guided by representatives of each jurisdiction as well as the Forest Fire Management Group. While state and territory agencies will continue to conduct prescribed burn training and accredit personnel for particular roles, AFAC is designing advanced professional development programs to support agencies, enhance capability, and shape a more sustainable future.

While national professional development for Australian fire managers is not new, the emphasis historically

has been on leadership in emergency management, not in the context of using fire in the landscape. Some individual agencies have explored ways in which complex prescribed burning can develop personnel for a complex future, as well as providing currency in bushfire suppression and incident management roles6. Such innovative learning initiatives need to be supported and developed further.

A curriculum fit for the future

Ongoing changes and increasing complexity in the Australian environment, community, and fire management sector have shown the need for future leaders, managers, and practitioners to have a deep understanding of the use of fire in the landscape. This must be addressed through a comprehensive national approach that is multidisciplinary, multifaceted, and involves practical experience, training, education, and mentoring.

At the core of AFAC’s vision and approach to professional development for prescribed burning is a masterclass on the use of fire in the landscape. The masterclass will build on previous investment in the National Burning Project and subsequent extension activities, as well as updates of the principles, frameworks, and guidelines to reflect new knowledge and approaches, such as applied meteorology, risk assessment, decision-making, and Indigenous cultural burning.

While specific content for the initial classroom-based and intensive learning component is still under consideration and will be guided by national subject matter experts, there are some topics that will be essential to include. An indicative curriculum could include advanced professional development in:

„ fire science for prescribed burning

ƒ climate change scenarios, weather, fuels, and fire behaviour models

ƒ new and emerging technologies and tools

ƒ fire ecology principles for prescribed burning

ƒ adaptive management

ƒ research utilisation

„ burn program management

ƒ fire regimes and burn program design

ƒ complex burn planning, implementation, and management

ƒ active burn program management—i.e. burn security with multiple burns alight

ƒ burn program monitoring, evaluation, and reporting

AFAC’s prescribed burning strategy aims to build the professionalism of the practice. The ability to use fire in the landscape is essential to living sustainably in the fire-prone Australian environment.

PHOTO: AFAC

PHOTO: ANDY BAKER

„ human and cultural factors

ƒ community engagement

ƒ learning from and supporting Indigenous cultural burning

ƒ risk assessment, human factors, and decision-making.

Beyond the classroom is where the major integration of learning will occur. Program participants, who are already experienced practitioners, will have the opportunity to conduct burns in unfamiliar and challenging environments while learning from each other. Operations will occur in south-east, south-west, and northern Australia. Mentors and facilitators will

FOOTNOTES

1. Zejbrlik, K 2017, ‘The Forestry Corporation of NSW hardwoods firefighting rebuild’, Proceedings of the 2017 AFAC Conference, Sydney.

2. Ansell, J et al. 2020, ‘Contemporary Aboriginal savanna burning projects in Arnhem Land: a regional description and analysis of the fire management aspirations of Traditional Owners’, International Journal of Wildland Fire, 29, pp. 371–385.

3. Howard, T and Leavesley, A 2020, ‘Managing the risk of escapes from prescribed burns’, in Leavesley A, Wouters M and Thornton R (eds), Prescribed Burning in Australasia: The Science, Practice and Politics of Burning the Bush, Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council, East Melbourne, pp. 170–185; Black, A et al. 2020, ‘Organizational learning from prescribed fire escapes: a review of developments over the last 10 years in the USA and Australia’, Current Forestry Reports, 6, pp. 41–59.

4. Burrows, N 1986, ‘Backburning in forest areas’, Landnote, no. 6, Department of Conservation and Land Management, Perth; Cheney, N et al. 2001, ‘The Dead-Man Zone: a neglected area of firefighter safety’, Australian Forestry, 64(1), pp. 45–50.

5. Hodgson, A and Cheney, N 1969, ‘Aerial Ignition for backburning’, Australian Forestry, 33(4), pp. 268–274.

6. Bentley L et al. 2018, ‘Burning and learning: using complex prescribed burns to develop people for a complex future’, Proceedings of the 2018 AFAC Conference, Perth.

7. Howard and Leavesley, 2020.

8. Weick, K and Sutcliffe, K 2015, Managing the Unexpected: Sustained Performance in a Complex World, third edition, John Wiley and Sons, New Jersey.

FIND OUT MORE ONLINE:

National Prescribed Burning Network: www.afac.com. au/initiative/burning

National Burning Project: https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/ resources/national-burning-project-prescribed-burningguidelines-and-frameworks

Prescribed Burning in Australasia: www.afac.com.au/ auxiliary/shop/product?ID=19417

be highly regarded industry veterans. An ongoing community of practice will be formed, and graduates will play important roles in developing others, as well as in program evaluations and continual improvement.

Igniting other benefits

Risk assessment and decision-making at all levels of agencies using fire need to be holistic, integrated, and able to deal with the technical issues of igniting the bush, while also managing environmental, community, corporate, and political risks.

REFERENCES

Ansell, J et al. 2020, ‘Contemporary Aboriginal savanna burning projects in Arnhem Land: a regional description and analysis of the fire management aspirations of Traditional Owners’, International Journal of Wildland Fire, 29, pp. 371–385.

Bentley, L et al. 2018, ‘Burning and learning: using complex prescribed burns to develop people for a complex future’, Proceedings of the 2018 AFAC Conference, Perth.

Black, A et al. 2020, ‘Organizational learning from prescribed fire escapes: a review of developments over the last 10 years in the USA and Australia’, Current Forestry Reports, 6, pp. 41–59.

Burrows, N 1986, ‘Backburning in forest areas’, Landnote, no. 6, Department of Conservation and Land Management, Perth.

Cheney, N et al. 2001, ‘The Dead-Man Zone: a neglected area of firefighter safety’, Australian Forestry, 64(1), pp. 45–50.

Hodgson, A and Cheney, N 1969, ‘Aerial Ignition for backburning’, Australian Forestry, 33(4), pp. 268–274. Howard, T and Leavesley, A 2020, ‘Managing the risk of escapes from prescribed burns’, in Leavesley, A, Wouters, M and Thornton, R (eds), Prescribed Burning in Australasia: The Science, Practice and Politics of Burning the Bush, Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council, East Melbourne, pp. 170–185.

Weick, K and Sutcliffe, K 2015, Managing the Unexpected: Sustained Performance in a Complex World, third edition, John Wiley and Sons, New Jersey. Zejbrlik K 2017, ‘The Forestry Corporation of NSW Hardwoods firefighting rebuild’, Proceedings of the 2017 AFAC Conference, Sydney.

Maintaining a broad awareness of risk in prescribed burn strategy, planning, operations, and program management is essential for ensuring positive outcomes at local, state, and national levels. National professional development in prescribed burning therefore needs to focus on developing the participants’ understanding and awareness beyond technical issues such as fuels, weather, topography, and operations.

The links between local burns and community viewpoints on one hand, and rapid adverse media, executive, and political scrutiny on the other, have been clearly demonstrated many times in relation to prescribed burning.

Leaders with technical knowledge, experience, and skills in using fire, combined with a strategic outlook and a broad and deep understanding of risk, will foster organisational cultures that are able to learn, adapt, and ultimately survive.

Keeping community trust alight

Being trusted by the community and governments to set fire to the bush cannot be guaranteed or taken for granted. Through professional development, agencies, managers, and practitioners will be better placed to apply research, adapt to a changing climate, and manage public safety, the environment, and risk with credibility and confidence.

A well-developed capability with professionally managed burn programs within land management agencies and rural fire services, plus the ability to safely and effectively use fire for backburning and bushfire suppression, will underpin and strengthen the social licence to use fire in the landscape7

Bolstered by a tailored research agenda, the sharing of lessons learned and a growing community of practice, agencies will be able to continue with and expand prescribed burning programs while supporting other land managers, including Indigenous Australians.

New learning and thinking about the many dimensions of risk—e.g. political, environmental, sociocultural, technical, legal, and economic—and the factors that contribute to decisionmaking, organisational cultures, and reliability,8 will help with strengthening and retaining the social licence to use fire. Ultimately, the ability to use fire in the landscape is essential to living sustainably in the fire-prone Australian environment.

ADVANCING AUSTRALIA’S GREEN FUTURE

The Australian Government’s National Hydrogen Strategy sets a vision for a clean, innovative, safe, and competitive hydrogen industry. Australia has all the natural resources needed to produce hydrogen, and the strategy lays out a plan to accelerate the commercialisation of hydrogen. Using hydrogen is expected to reduce Australia’s dependence on fossil fuels and significantly reduce carbon emissions.

However, the strategy also identifies that there is a lack of training available for first responders on hydrogenrelated disasters. In what is a fastgrowing industry, it is a national priority to develop a standardised training framework for hydrogen response. Without such a national framework, first responders and the future of the hydrogen industry in Australia are left vulnerable. As demonstrated by nuclear power, a single poorly handled disaster can completely derail community acceptance.

The National Hydrogen Working Group (NHWG) was formed to progress the deliverables in the National Hydrogen Strategy and safeguard community as the hydrogen industry develops. Led by AFAC and including members of industry, emergency services, and academia, the NHWG is focused on delivering a sustainable national hydrogen training framework to support Australia’s hydrogen industry.

The NHWG is progressing this work across three phases:

„ Phase 1. Completed in 2022, this phase involved the analysis of predeveloped commercially available hydrogen training modules. Three suitable options were identified: Ulster University/ HySAFER Centre; the American Institute of Chemical Engineers/ US Center for Hydrogen Safety; or the commissioning of bespoke training.

„ Phase 2. The leading minds in hydrogen from emergency management, industry, and academia have formed a

hydrogen training collaborative group. This group is exploring the options from Phase 1, with the aim of developing a sustainable training framework and funding model for first responder training in Australia. Phase 2 will be completed by June 2023.

„ Phase 3. This phase will begin in the latter half of 2023 and will involve the implementation of the chosen training framework. By 2024, implementation of the framework will prepare approximately 100,000 emergency first responders for hydrogenrelated incidents. A national hydrogen training framework will prepare first responders to respond to hydrogen emergencies. It will govern the way first responders deal with hydrogen-related incidents and will increase not only their safety, but also that of the community.

For more information about the National Hydrogen Working Group, visit www.afac.com.au/initiative/ national-hydrogen-framework

LAUREN OGNJANOV and MOLLY PRICE

AFAC

Released in 2019, the National Hydrogen Strategy outlines a national commitment to developing Australia’s hydrogen industry. Through the National Hydrogen Working Group, AFAC is developing nationally standardised training in hydrogen response.

SEEING THE UNSEEN WITH THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS

When the methanol-powered car of racing car driver Rick Mears caught alight during a pit stop in the 1981 Indianapolis 500, the pit crew was not able to identify the extent of the fire that affected the car, the driver, and some of the crew.

PARKER

Several products can burn with an invisible or near invisible flame, including hydrogen, ethanol, methanol, and some other alcohols. Hydrogen— the most common chemical in the universe—has many uses such as fuel for transport, heating, a way to store electricity, or a raw material in industrial processes. Ethanol is widely used as a blended fuel for vehicles. Methanol is also used as a fuel additive. It is one of the most widely used chemicals and a fundamental building block for manufacturing products used in everyday life.

These products can burn without smoke, emit large amounts of ultraviolet and infra-red radiation (IR), and are nearly invisible to the naked eye.

So, when Rick Mears’s car ignited in Indianapolis, his crew, family, and spectators had no idea how bad the fire was or what to do about it, causing delays in response and panic amongst those witnessing the event.

type of product that is burning, and its emissions within the long-wave IR band. The camera may still identify flames and burning material, and the effects of convection, conduction, and radiant energy from the fire, including its impact on nearby objects and other secondary items that may also be burning.

Seeing colours

Modern TICs in standard mode produce greyscale images with high energy levels indicated in shades of colour. These screen displays have been refined to provide an optimum image that can be quickly interpreted during firefighting use.

Greyscale is a group of shades without any visible colour, depicting monochromatic shades from black to white. While there are limits to how many shades of grey humans can distinguish, it provides simple and realistic detail that usually can be easily interpreted.

(temperature scale) and supplementing the information available from the greyscale image. These colours can provide an immediate and obvious indication of high heat levels during fire size-up, search and rescue, fire attack, overhaul, mopping up at wildfires, and other applications.

Full colour palettes are not used for firefighting because they may overwhelm and confuse firefighters with information and not immediately indicate the things that are important to them.

For firefighting applications, the priority is detecting heat sources, identifying people and hazards, and navigating and recognising other objects in the environment.

Fire service camera thermal palettes in ‘white hot’ grayscale and shades of colour to highlight high heat levels are used for this purpose, to provide a contrast and make some details more visible.

Grayscale provides simple and realistic images of a fire. This can be augmented with the introduction of a few colours to identify key risks.

For incidents involving these and similar products, firefighters need a way to assess the extent and severity of a fire and the potential risks, such as the likelihood of an explosion and fire spread. Key to this is fit-for-purpose detection and monitoring equipment.

Using a thermal imaging camera to identify invisible flames

Thermal imaging cameras (TICs) are increasingly becoming an essential part of a firefighter’s armoury.

Since the introduction of the first fire service TICs in the 1980s, cameras have become smaller, lighter, and far more capable, with sophisticated operating features and functions.

Firefighters can use a TIC to detect the structure or shape of what is mostly an invisible flame, although an accurate indication of the apparent or measured temperature will be difficult to determine due to variables associated with the

To help with image interpretation during an incident, most TICs apply three graduated colours of yelloworange-red to the display, matched to the screen’s heat colour reference bar

Troubleshooting problems

While modern TICs are designed for the rigours of fire service use, as with any technology there is always a possibility that they can have problems, faults, or

GAVIN

Fire Rescue Victoria

Regular maintenance can help to avoid problems with TICs.

even fail, due to contamination on the lens, overheating, inadvertent activation of a feature, damage, water entry, battery failure, or component faults.

To avoid some of these problems the camera should always be inspected for damage or missing items during maintenance and a system check conducted at start-up.

If a TIC fails, the operator should enact agency procedures and only continue with the task if it is safe to do so. Otherwise, the crew may either have to withdraw and replace the camera, change over with another crew

that has a functional camera, or join with them to complete the task. Any equipment faults should be reported as soon as possible, and the item should be tagged and removed from service for repair or replacement as required.

Conclusion

There may be little visual evidence of ‘invisible’ flames from products such as hydrogen and alcohols, with only a heat haze or the flames or smoke from other products involved in these types of fires to alert the firefighter.

TICs can help to make ‘invisible’ flames a little more visible for firefighters.

The use of a TIC may help to determine the full extent or spread of fire that may otherwise not be initially identified, particularly where colour differences are applied.

A properly maintained TIC provides the functionality to detect what is happening when the nature of a fire cannot be identified with the naked eye, allowing firefighters to identify the right strategies for dealing with the blaze and protecting themselves and the public.

Oh, and if someone should get out of a race car and start jumping around, grab an extinguisher.

PHOTOS: GAVIN PARKER, FRV.

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE OF POST-DISASTER BUYBACKS AND REBUILDING

After a disaster, there are significant opportunities to enhance resilience by building back in a way that best adapts to natural hazard risk.

PHOTO: VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE

BETHANY PATCH

Natural Hazards Research Australia

Using best adaptive practice can enhance resilience to natural hazards, but these hazard mitigation techniques can also increase a community’s vulnerability. Through pre-disaster planning, simplified governmental processes, and an understanding that climate change is making resilience harder, this can be managed.

In a webinar hosted by Natural Hazards Research Australia on 14 February, Professor Gavin Smith of North Carolina State University presented key challenges, insights, and lessons from his hands-on experience and research with hazard mitigation strategies in the US and New Zealand.

As a leading global expert, Professor Smith unpacked the main issues and challenges with house buyouts, rebuilds, and elevations for more than 220 attendees at the webinar.

“Building back houses to their previous outdated standards perpetuates vulnerability,” Professor Smith said.

In opening the webinar, Natural Hazards Research Australia CEO Andrew Gissing noted that while measures to reduce damages such as retrofitting, house raising, and buyouts were not new, the scale and frequency of their adoption was increasing both in Australia and internationally.

“In a warming climate, the pressure to adopt such measures is likely to increase as extreme weather events worsen, placing greater pressures on communities.” Mr Gissing said.

“We have an opportunity to evaluate the implementation of resilience programs here and overseas to best apply investments to Australian community needs.”

What are buyouts/buybacks and elevations?

Buybacks or voluntary purchase schemes are government-funded programs that work with communities to purchase homes in areas that are or could be affected by disasters, usually followed by rebuilding homes in a safer area. The US’s buyout programs are voluntary and provide homeowners with the pre-disaster market value for their homes, often prioritising lowincome, more vulnerable communities. Once a home is bought back, the land must then be maintained as public open land (e.g. parks).

“It’s one of the most effective riskreduction techniques. In the US, over

65,000 homes have been acquired since the 1990s,” Professor Smith said.

House-raising programs or elevations are also utilised to raise the habitable floor space of a dwelling above frequent flooding, in line with local floodplain management standards.

A recent example of these mitigation techniques being used in Australia is the Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s Resilient Homes Fund, established in May 2022, which encourages homeowners to either retrofit, home raise, or buy back voluntarily. This program is being rolled out in towns such as Ipswich, where more than 60 homeowners accepted offers to buy back after the 2022 floods.

What are the key challenges?

Professor Smith highlighted that the US’s buyout funding programs are highly complex, bureaucratic, and rigid, often being micromanaged by federal or state governments without much local government involvement. Communities have difficulty navigating the programs, where success is impacted by a lack of government flexibility.

“One of the biggest challenges we face is that local state and federal capacity and commitment can be lacking,” he said.

It is also common practice in the US that buyout funding is initiated after a disaster—a lengthy and stressful process for community members who are busy recovering, which hampers public participation. More effective pre-planning investment would ensure communities can relocate either before or very shortly after a disaster.

“We are still not adequately planning for these issues, nor are we building the capacity needed to help local government to engage in these complex programs,” Professor Smith said.

He also touched on community members’ place attachment when relocating or buying out homes where people do not want to leave, and the challenge of sensitively navigating this within government bureaucracy.

“Moving from your community to a new location is very unsettling,” he said. “People often come back to their original communities at the anniversary of the storm to reconnect, which tells you something about the social bonds that are torn apart by buyouts. We don’t spend enough time linking landuse planning to public health and the psychological well-being of individuals.”

Professor Smith discussed other challenges with buyouts, including land use after buyouts, rebuilding

affordability, uneven levels of participation, length of time to implement, lack of global lessonsharing, and loss of local tax bases. To improve the thoughtful use of open spaces left behind once homes are bought, Professor Smith has co-authored a new Open Space Management Guide for better planning.

What can we learn from case studies in the US?

Professor Smith outlined the results of case studies that compared buyout techniques used in the US with buyback methods in New Zealand, presenting several key lessons that might be applied to other contexts such as in Australia.

Broader goals and close community connections

A case study in Charlotte/Mecklenburg, North Carolina, illustrated the importance of broader community goals within buyout programs, extending beyond relocation.

“Given the prescriptive nature of federal programs, this community developed their own buyout program,” Professor Smith said. “This is really important because it shows that buyouts are not only a recreational opportunity but are linked to broader activities and to higher goals like water quality, economic development, and future floodplain mapping.”

In another case, in Princeville, North Carolina, community members considered alternative ways to maintain their pre-disaster community bonds once their houses were moved uphill in the wake of Hurricane Matthew (2016). Professor Smith’s team hosted a community design workshop that brought together land-use planners, engineers, architects, town officials, designers, students, and residents to collaborate with local, state, and federal officials to develop options for new resilient homes, affordable housing, and new community structures.

“Working closely and directly with communities to rebuild is essential. Community members are often considering how to maintain their community,” Professor Smith said.

Informed pre-disaster planning

Professor Smith reiterated the importance of improved pre-disaster planning, including open space management through thoughtful land-use planning and design, and incorporation of buyout projects within local hazard mitigation plans.

Far left: Buybacks and elevations can be used to mitigate the impacts of floods in hazard-prone areas.

Professor Gavin Smith’s webinar presented key challenges, insights, and lessons from his hands-on experience and research with hazard mitigation strategies.

“We throw a lot of money at disasters after the fact, but we invest very little in pre-event planning for post-disaster recovery or pre-event planning for governance. How does good governance get us to better engage with governmental actors, the private sector, and others? Good planning should be about building networks and coalitions to achieve the aim of greater resilience.”

A case study of Kinston, North Carolina, highlighted the value of pre-disaster planning when the community was struck with two devastating storms in close succession—Hurricane Fran in 1996 and Hurricane Floyd in 1999.

“Kinston viewed multiple disasters as a window of opportunity to change the spatial structure of their town,” Professor Smith said. “Pre-event planning really makes a difference in speeding up these bureaucratic programs.”

Before Hurricane Fran, Kinston had dilapidated housing stock, lack of affordable housing, and extreme flood hazard risk.

The application of pre- and postdisaster planning tools allowed for temporary prohibition of new construction in floodplain, no rebuilding of substantially damaged structures in floodplain, increased elevation standards, and development of floodplain conservation easements.

By the time Hurricane Floyd hit Kinston in 1999, the community had a comprehensive buyout application ready for rapid implementation.

“Kinston developed application forms for 600 homes in case another disaster struck, so when Hurricane Floyd hit in 1999, they were ready with applications, which were approved within two weeks after the storm,” he said.

Pre-event planning was found to be stronger in New Zealand case studies, for example the ‘red-zoning’ of properties in Christchurch and the establishment of a national agency to assist with regeneration plans and open space management.

Adapting for climate change

A case study about Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina (2005) reiterated the need to plan using building codes and standards that incorporate climate projections for future catastrophic disasters, rather than rebuilding using existing standards.

Working with the Mississippi community, Professor Smith used future flood maps to help residents adopt more stringent and relevant standards within their rebuilds.

“One of the main questions we need to be asking ourselves is: what are the appropriate structural and non-structural design standards in an era of climate change? This is the big

unanswered question. Should we be building in areas where you have to elevate your home 30 feet in the air?”

Incentivising protective action

Professor Smith reiterated the importance of incentivising protective action, including the role of insurance and private sector investment in encouraging communities to reduce their risk.

“Historically, our national flood insurance rates haven’t truly reflected flood risk,” he said. “The idea was to incentivise more people to buy flood insurance, but instead it sent the signal that middle- and upper-income people can access flood insurance that is inexpensive, thereby incentivising development in the floodplain. Now, the US is moving towards more actuarily sound rates. But we have thousands of homes that aren’t tied to new codes and standards or have flood insurance at lower rates. So, it’s going to take some time to move the meter to better reflect risk.

“We also need to develop better incentives and do a better job of educating people about risk and the implications of not acting, while changing the powerful disincentives such as post-disaster aid. We’ve got to do a better job of informing communities about the risk and giving them the information and tools to take action.”

Professor Smith’s three key pieces of advice provide a pathway for Australia to improve buyback and retrofitting programs:

1. Do a good job of pre-event planning: invest the time it takes to build community relationships, engender trust and think through the buyout process as a continuum—thinking about what you do with the open space, and how you resettle thoughtfully.

2. Think about how national and subnational entities can help to build the capacity of local governments to undertake these issues.

3. Think about how buyouts and elevation should be nested within a larger adaptation strategy ... taking into account not only the risk of today, but perhaps the risks of tomorrow and well into the future.

You can learn more about this webinar and watch the recording at www.naturalhazards.com.au/newsand-events/events/rising-challengelearning-natural-hazards-buildresilient-communities

PHOTO: UNSPLASH

“Working closely and directly with communities to rebuild is essential. Community members are often considering how to maintain their community.”

BLACK SUMMER RESEARCH REPORT INCREASES UNDERSTANDING OF BUSHFIRES

Science is shaping how Australia can better prepare for devastating bushfire seasons with the release of comprehensive research based on the major issues of the 2019–20 Black Summer fire season.

NATHAN MADDOCK

Natural Hazards Research Australia

The wide-ranging Black Summer research program was undertaken by Natural Hazards Research Australia and the Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre in the years since the 2019–20 fire season, with funding from the Australian Government and partners. The program drew on the expertise of Australia’s best fire and climate scientists, human geographers, land managers, and public health and recovery experts at 28 research institutions, First Nations organisations, and fire and land management agencies.

A new report—Understanding the Black Summer Bushfires Through Research—summarises the research findings from 23 projects. The report presents an integrated view of the way forward from the fires, including exploring why the 2019–20 fire season was so devastating, what new capabilities can be implemented and how Australia can best learn from its worst fire season on record. Some projects focused on what could be learned at a national level, while others analysed specific fire behaviour or technology in Queensland, NSW, Victoria, SA, and WA.

Insights from the research have provided Natural Hazards Research Australia partners in government, fire and emergency management agencies, and community organisations with an up-todate scientific basis for decisions on how best to allocate resources, manage the environment, and help communities to prepare, respond, and recover.

Andrew Gissing, CEO of Natural Hazards Research Australia, said the research was based on the issues of the 2019–20 fire season, but the findings can be applied to bushfire management, safety, and community resilience for all natural hazards around Australia.

“This is vital new Australian science about how to keep our landscapes and people safe from bushfire. Our fire seasons are getting longer, and dangerous bushfire days are becoming more frequent. We need to be smarter and use this new scientific knowledge

and research to improve the ways we live with fire,” Mr Gissing said.

“The 2019–20 bushfires were long and challenging. This research has improved our understanding of how the extremely dry conditions and recordbreaking temperatures impacted our weather in ways that previously were not as well-understood.

“This research will guide how bushfire risk can best be managed through better science, policy, and practices.

The strength of the science was its multidisciplinary approach that will lead to action—better bushfire modelling, better warnings, better land management, including enabling cultural fire, and better recovery after a disaster for those affected will come from this research.”

Understanding the Black Summer Bushfires Through Research is available at www.naturalhazards.com. au/black-summer

Below: A stump still smolders weeks after a fire, while new growth on the trees behind it hint at recovery.

Bottom: Firefighters mopping up on the Peat Fire near Cape Conran Coastal Park, Victoria.

PHOTO: NEAL HERBERT

PHOTO: NEAL HERBERT

FIRE AUSTRALIA 2023

PERCEPTIVE, POLITICAL, PRACTICAL –SESSIONS TO INSPIRE

This year’s Fire Australia Conference and Tradeshow returns to the International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour, with an array of interesting topics and inspiring speakers.

PAUL WATERHOUSE

FPA Australia

From 3–5 May 2023, the International Convention Centre (ICC Sydney) will be a hotspot for ideas, innovation, and inspiration in fire protection.

Leading speakers and panellists from Australia and overseas will take part in three days of world-class professional development.

Some highlights of the program include:

„ a pre-recorded interview with Dame Judith Hackitt DBE, author of the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, following the Grenfell Tower fire

„ a presentation by David Chandler OAM on the challenges of building quality

„ a panel with Professor Fiona Wood AM, barrister Nick Newton, and Mick Forbes of Fire and Rescue NSW looking at the consequences of poor fire protection

„ a panel of international industry association representatives talking about fire protection challenges overseas.

A mix of plenary sessions, presentations, panels, and technical forums broken into the thematic streams of ‘perceptive’, ‘political’, and ‘practical’, the program has a range of topics spanning renewable battery fires to performance, regulatory reform, standards, home fire sprinklers, bushfire design, and sustainability, and involves some of the leaders of our industry.

In addition, this year we are running two technician sessions:

„ In the can: tips and traps of routine service work

„ Leading by example: a business development masterclass.

The sessions are open to attendees who otherwise might not be able to take part in the Conference.

These workshops are designed to help those on the tools to improve their knowledge and to get insights into running a successful business.

The program is bound to have something of interest for anyone in the fire protection sector, and registrations are now open.

Celebrating excellence … and letting your hair down

On day one we will have our traditional welcome cocktail reception, where participants can catch up with others in the industry over a quiet beverage.

But the real celebrations happen on the next day, when we will be applauding excellence in the industry and networking with our peers at the Gala and Awards Dinner.

During the evening, we will be announcing the winners of the Fire Protection Industry Awards, which acknowledge the best in the industry and celebrate those working to improve fire protection.

The Gala and Awards Dinner gives delegates a chance to recognise these achievements, and then to network and relax with their peers, enjoy live entertainment, and raise a bit of money to support the Fiona Wood Foundation.

Register at www.fireaustralia.com.au/ registration, pack your bags, and we will see you in Sydney!

Inspiring presentations, innovative exhibitions, and insightful site tours: this year’s Fire Australia Conference and Tradeshow has something for everyone.

FIRE AUSTRALIA 2023

SEE THE LATEST INNOVATIONS AT THE TRADESHOW

The Fire Australia 2023 Tradeshow Hall will showcase some of the leading solutions for fire protection and bring suppliers and service providers together under one roof.

Free for those who register, the Tradeshow boasts a growing number of exhibitors from across the sector.

They will be on hand to demonstrate their services and products, reveal new ways to protect the community, and show how they can help you and your business.

Free sessions on a dedicated exhibition stage, including product demonstrations and industry updates, will be a focus for visitors to the Tradeshow Hall.

THIS YEAR’S EXHIBITORS (STAND#):

FIRE AUSTRALIA 2023

SEE HOW MAJOR FACILITIES MANAGE FIRE SAFETY

1. Kicking goals at the SCG and Allianz Stadium

The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is one of the most iconic sporting sites in the world, and its newly constructed neighbour, Allianz Stadium, is a worldclass venue for the various codes of football.

The SCG has a variety of old and new stands, bringing with them complicated fire risks, while Allianz Stadium (opened last August) has been rebuilt with some of the latest fire protection solutions.

On this tour, you will get to look behind the scenes at some of these facilities and understand the challenges of keeping thousands of people safe from fire during a major event.

2. Getting there with WestConnex

WestConnex is Australia’s largest road infrastructure project and is a critical part of Sydney’s transport network. When complete in 2023, it will provide motorists with a continuous, 33 km trafficlight-free motorway network, with connections to future projects linking the North Shore and Northern Beaches, Sydney Airport, and the southern suburbs.

So, how do the operators minimise the risk of fire and other incidents?

In this tour of Transurban’s WestConnex control room, you will get a look into the facility’s operations and understand the systems getting travellers home safely.

3. Keeping control at the NSW Rural Fire Service

Explore fire protection, as performed by others. Get a behindthe-scenes look at major infrastructure to see what systems keep thousands of people safe every day.

Following the Fire Australia 2023 Conference program, the tours will give delegates an opportunity to see systems and learn about strategies in situ, rather than only through a presentation.

This year’s offsite tours will provide an inside look into sporting and conference facilities, infrastructure, and bushfire management.

How does the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) manage to respond to, and manage, bushfire incidents?

The State Operations Centre at NSW RFS Headquarters in Lidcombe is a world-class facility, from which the NSW RFS oversees and coordinates incident responses.

On this site tour, you will get to see this important facility, hear how it is used, and get unique insights into how bushfires are fought in NSW.

Be part of Australasia’s largest fire protection industry event

Join us at the largest and most influential fire protection event in the Southern Hemisphere. Hear from industry experts, discover new products and services, connect with suppliers and gain insights on the latest industry trends.

2000+ DELEGATES 80+ EXHIBITORS 3 DAYS OF LEARNING

Key Industry Experts

Learn about new trends, products and services from key industry experts, through a variety of engaging and interactive formats.

Technical Tracks

Attend our technical CPD seminars and stimulate your professional development, ignite your business opportunities and help develop the fire protection industry.

Tradeshow Hall

Connect with our 80+ local and international Tradeshow exhibitors, showcasing hundreds of industry leading products and services.

For more information visit the event website: fireaustralia.com.au

PARK UP, PLUG IN: MANAGING ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND CHARGING EQUIPMENT IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

The built environment is changing to accommodate the significant uptake of electric vehicles in Australia and New Zealand, with charging equipment becoming a more common feature of carparks and being incorporated into urban planning. AFAC has published new doctrine to deliver a nationally consistent position on electric vehicles and charging equipment.

b) labelled to indicate use for electric vehicle charging equipment. For fire and emergency services, the increase in EVs presents novel challenges in incident response and firefighter safety. While failure events are currently reported to be infrequent, the potential risks associated with thermal runaway can be of high consequence and pose significant challenges and risks for emergency service personnel. It is anticipated that higher EV uptake will incrementally impact the frequency of these failure events.

The new inclusions in the National Construction Code, relevant electrical standards and regulations, address the electrical safety aspects of EVs and their charging, but AFAC and its members believe the fire safety concerns, including operational response, have not yet been adequately addressed.

Engaging with fire authorities early will potentially save time and money later in the process. To align with recommendations of the Shergold-Weir Building Confidence Report, all relevant considerations should be made during the concept and design phase of a development project, enabling a tailored approach to the specific characteristics of the proposed development.

Globally, society is in the early stages of adopting EVs and there is still a research gap related to emergency response to incidents involving lithium-ion technologies. AFAC and its members are very supportive of the transition to EVs. However, as with all new technologies, consideration needs to be given to the safety of the community and emergency service personnel if, and when, things go wrong.

Fire agencies have a role minimising fire risk in the built environment. Appropriate engagement with relevant fire authorities should happen as early in the design phase as possible.

The presence of electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in hybrid EVs across Australia and New Zealand is increasing significantly. Several industry, societal, and governmental initiatives are driving this transition from internal combustion engine-powered vehicles to electrically powered vehicles.

A major influence is the recent changes to the National Construction Code 2022, which includes requirements for new carparks in certain buildings to have the electrical infrastructure to facilitate EV charging. Coming into effect in May 2023, the new code states:

Subject to (2), a carpark associated with Class 2, 3, 5, 6, 7b, 8, or 9 building must be provided with electrical distribution boards dedicated to electric vehicle charging— a) in accordance with Table J9D4 in each storey of the carpark; and

As a result, the AFAC Built Environment and Planning Technical Group partnered with the AFAC Alternative and Renewable Energies Technology Working Group to develop new doctrine that represents a nationally consistent position on EVs.

AFAC’s Electric Vehicles (EV) and EV Charging Equipment in the Built Environment Position seeks to identify and inform about the risks to the community and emergency responders in and around EVs and EV charging infrastructure. It highlights concerns related to EVs and EV charging in enclosed spaces, and seeks engagement with fire authorities early in the design phase so that all stakeholders are aware of the risks and develop acceptable solutions using fire engineering principles.

As stated in AFAC’s Position on Fire Safety in the Built Environment, fire agencies have a role minimising fire risk in the built environment, and AFAC advocates for appropriate engagement, as early in the design phase as possible, with the relevant fire authorities.

The Electric Vehicles (EV) and EV Charging Equipment in the Built Environment Position highlights issues and provides fire safety perspectives on EVs within the built environment, and the planning, design, and installation of EV charging facilities.

It excludes the environmental, social, and economic issues associated with EVs and charging infrastructure, and does not provide any judgements on the values or otherwise of EVs and charging infrastructure. While the focus of this position is on Class 2–9 buildings, it may also apply to Classes 1 and 10.

Find the relevant resources online:

• Electric Vehicles (EV) and EV Charging Equipment in the Built Environment Position: www.afac. com.au/insight/doctrine/article/ current/electric-vehicles-(ev)-andev-charging-equipment-in-the-builtenvironment

• Position on Fire Safety in the Built Environment: www.afac.com.au/ insight/doctrine/article/current/firesafety-in-the-built-environment

IVAN WEST AFAC

PHOTO: PRECIOUS MADUBUIKE / UNSPLASH

A SPECIAL INTEREST IN LITHIUM BATTERIES

The increasing prevalence of renewable energy storage systems and electric vehicles in society raises the risks faced by the community from thermal runaway. FPA Australia is bringing together some of the industry’s leading experts to identify solutions for battery fires.

FPA Australia

Renewable energy is growing in popularity as a potential solution to climate change, with the number of electric vehicles and rechargeable batteries in use in the community increasing significantly over the past few years.

But this new technology comes with an increased fire risk.

In the 18 months leading up to January 2023, fire authorities have reported more than 450 fires linked to lithium-ion batteries, many associated with light electric vehicles such as ebikes and escooters. These incidents are occurring more frequently—in WA, for example, the number of lithium-ion battery fires has increased four-fold since 2018.

While battery technology has developed rapidly, the fire protection

implications have not been given as much focus, and there is still much debate about the best way to deal with a battery fire and, at the same time, protect firefighters and the community.

To address this, FPA Australia has created a new forum to discuss the risks of, and potential responses to, these incidents. With members drawn from each of the Association’s Technical Advisory Committees, the Lithium Battery Special Interest Group (LB/SIG) will bring expertise from across the industry to consider solutions to one of the highest profile fire risks of recent years.

Leigh Gesthuizen, National Manager, Technical and Advocacy, said this SIG is an important forum if the industry is to identify tangible solutions to pressing problems.

“Electric vehicles, light electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and a range of other hand-held batterypowered devices are here to stay,

but their adoption and embrace by the community is significantly further advanced than the methods available to deal with the fire risks,” he said.

“This SIG has been established to develop solutions and strategies that will help to prevent these systems from going into thermal runaway.”

Chaired by Matt Allen from the Country Fire Authority, with FPA Australia Honorary Life Member, Rob Llewellyn of International Fire Protection as deputy, the committee has broken its workload into five streams:

„ advocacy

„ research

„ technical

„ intervention

„ maintenance and disposal.

It is hoped that, with the input of both firefighters and practitioners, appropriate strategies can be developed that bring greater safety to renewable technology.

PAUL WATERHOUSE

PHOTO: DOMINIK SOSTMANN / UNSPLASH

A Special Interest Group has been set up by FPA Australia to develop effective solutions to growing fire risks from lithium-ion batteries.

AFAC23 EXPLORING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

The AFAC Conference and Exhibition comes to Brisbane in 2023 to share research and knowledge in fire and emergency services as we move into a future of change, complexity, and innovation.

The multi-award winning AFAC23 powered by INTERSCHUTZ Conference and Exhibition will be hosted on 22–25 August 2023 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. The annual event plays a central role in bringing delegates together to build capability and connections across the emergency management sector.

In 2023, the conference will centre on the theme ‘Creating a sustainable future: the challenges and opportunities’ and will offer a broad array of presentations, panels, and keynote speakers to scan the horizon and explore the technology, knowledge systems, and social factors that need to be considered as we move into an uncertain future.

Creating a sustainable future: the challenges and opportunities

Compounding, concurrent, and complex disasters are creating new challenges for governments and communities. As the world transitions to a net zero future and new technologies present uncharted challenges and opportunities for the sector, we need to adapt our approach to emergency management. How do we champion a safe and sustainable future for our people and the communities we serve?

The shift in energy generation and reliability is a powerful force for change in how our communities and environments interact and operate. The infrastructure that we build and invest in today determines our resilience tomorrow. The actions we take now increase our capability and set the standard for the future. In this environment of rapid change and development, we have a responsibility to establish a path forward with Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Pacific peoples. We must embrace First Nations values and knowledge and bring their rich history into the future.

People are at the centre of our work, and changes in demographics and behaviour influence our risks. So, how do we better understand our workforces and our communities to

truly create a sustainable future for all?

AFAC23 will explore how Australia and the Pacific are prepared to meet these challenges.

Partnering for impact

AFAC23 is proudly supported by host agencies Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

We are working in partnership to deliver the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) (Australia) National Conference, the Australian Disaster Resilience Conference, and the Women and Firefighting Australasia (WAFA) Conference, which are offered as streams of the overall conference event. Co-locating at the AFAC23 Conference and Exhibition allows for connections across areas of interest and expertise, and a more cohesive understanding across the emergency management sector.

The IFE (Australia) National Conference will focus on the key issues facing the fire engineering community, the Australian Disaster Resilience Conference will focus on disaster risk reduction, resilience, and recovery, while the WAFA Conference will focus on recruitment of women to the fire and emergency services.

ALANA BEITZ AFAC

PHOTO: AFAC

AFAC23 Exhibition

The AFAC powered by INTERSCHUTZ exhibition is Australasia’s largest emergency management exhibition, featuring state-of-the-art equipment, cutting-edge technology, and leading service providers.

AFAC23’s trade exhibition will feature the most comprehensive range of emergency management-related organisations across 15,000 sqm of gross floorspace, including a strong international contingent from a range of countries. The AFAC exhibition has grown by 140% from 2015 and is recognised as the must-attend event for emergency management professionals who are sourcing equipment and services for their agencies.

The Demonstration Zone features the latest equipment, technology, and best practices displayed across the three days of the exhibition, including robotics, virtual reality firefighting equipment, rescue simulations, and much more.

The comprehensive Solutions Theatre offers a program of practical presentations aimed at helping those at the frontline of emergency management. Topics range from innovations and new technologies,

mental health, well-being, community, resilience, trucks, and personal protective equipment.

Within the exhibition is the AIDR Knowledge Centre, a central hub of research findings, including the popular poster displays. This is the place to meet and chat with researchers and conference speakers.

Opportunities are open to exhibit at AFAC23 Exhibition and meet decision-makers and influencers from the fire, emergency management, law enforcement, defence, resources, built environment, and hazardous industrial sectors. Find out more at www. afacconference.com.au/the-exhibition/ exhibiting

Research, innovation, professional development—and more!

The AFAC23 Conference and Exhibition is a customisable experience spreading over four days of immersive engagement and knowledge sharing.

On 22 August, the opening day of AFAC23, the Research and Innovation Day sets the tone for the event by exploring the big ideas and latest science driving change in the fire and emergency services.

On 25 August, the Professional Development Program offers a range of practical workshops and field trips aimed at increasing the knowledge of participants.

Networking opportunities are offered through the lunch and tea breaks throughout the event, as well as the popular Exhibition Networking Function and the Gala Dinner.

Early bird registrations are now open for AFAC23 until 30 June. Secure your attendance at the fire and emergency service professionals’ premier annual event at www.afacconference.com.au

Experience the rich knowledge and networking opportunities on offer at AFAC23 Conference and Exhibition in Brisbane, happening 22-25 August 2023.

PHOTO: AFAC

LESSONS MANAGEMENT FORUM: CASE STUDIES ON ‘CLOSING THE LOOP’

With an increase in emergencies comes a corresponding increase in the number of reviews, inquiries, and Royal Commissions. How do we prioritise learning from the lessons identified, while also balancing the implementation and monitoring of recommendations?

The 2023 Lessons Management Forum will ‘close the loop’ to learn and understand the challenges and innovations faced during emergency response events.

ALANA BEITZ AFAC

2.

Whether they are after-action reviews or more formal inquiries, incident reviews offer valuable insights and observations to improve future activity. However, implementing identified lessons and ensuring they are embedded into policy and practice can be challenging.

experiences and insights from events and operations. Central to the program is good practice in lessons and knowledge management, innovation, and cultural practices.

3.

The Lessons Management Forum theme ‘Closing the Loop: The Challenges of Change’ explores this transition, providing examples and guidance through case studies and research. Over two days (27–28 June) in Canberra and online, this interactive, hybrid event will offer a program of diverse speakers sharing their

The Forum plays an important role in the interoperability of lessons management processes across agencies, sectors, and jurisdictions by facilitating information sharing and analysis. Developing a common language and methods can help to aggregate information so that it is accessible and can be analysed and interpreted more broadly. This supports the horizontal and vertical exchange of information between agencies, sectors, and jurisdictions, helping sector participants to learn together, and from each other.

1. The 2023 Lessons Management Forum builds upon the knowledge gained during last year’s event in Brisbane.

The Lessons Management Forum is a hybrid event, offered inperson and online.

Sharing lessons across teams and agencies promotes a collaborative approach to improving practice.

PHOTOS: AFAC

The Lessons Management Forum is an AFAC event, proudly supported by the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience, and is made possible through sponsors and partners:

„ Natural Hazards Research

Australia—Research Partner

„ NSW State Emergency Service— Bronze Sponsor

„ C3 Resilience—Lessons Management Award Sponsor

„ National Emergency Management Agency - AIDR Funding Partner

Registrations are now open for the 2023 Lessons Management Forum at www.aidr.org.au/ events/33726?locationId=33728

Find out more about lessons management, including the Lessons Management Handbook, on the Australian Disaster Resilience Knowledge Hub: www.knowledge. aidr.org.au/collections/lessonsmanagement.

LESSONS MANAGEMENT FORUM PROGRAM

Day 1

10:00am Welcome and opening

10:30am Learning lessons in the era of consecutive, concurrent, compounding and complex crises

Joe Buffone, National Emergency Management Agency

11:15am Morning tea

11:45am

12:15pm

12:45pm

LEARNING

Learning lessons – One agency's approach

Heather Stuart, NSW State Emergency Service

Using lessons identified to improve health service delivery to First Nations communities

Carla Bailey, C3 Resilience

Learning from the June 2021 extreme weather event

Lisa Marie Jackson, Emergency Management Victoria

1:15pm Lunch

2:00pm

2:30pm

ORGANISATIONAL CHANGE

Capability – Closing the loop on the challenges of change

Kevin Thom, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services

What do we have to sell? Garnering executive support

Wayne Snell, Australian Civil Military Centre

3:00pm Afternoon tea

3:30pm

LESSONS AND CONVERSATIONS

Panel Discussion: International lessons

Chair: Mark Cuthbert, Australian Civil Military Centre with international representatives from New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Day 2

9:00am Registrations open

OPERATIONAL LEARNING

10:00am Welcome and Day 1 recap

10:15am

10:45am

Fire and Rescue NSW operational assurance

Gerrad Brady, Fire and Rescue NSW

Fire Rescue Victoria knowledge sharing

Steve Morgan, Fire Rescue Victoria

11:15am Morning tea

11:45am

IMPLEMENTATION

Creativity and imagination for positive and sustainable change

Cheryl Ames, Tasmania State Emergency Service

12:15pm Lessons Management Award

Award ceremony, including presentation from the award winner on their topic

12:45pm Real time learning – Why do we wait for post event debriefs?

Lisa Marie Jackson, Emergency Management Victoria

1:15pm Lunch

2:00pm

FUTURE THINKING

Tasmanian emergency management system as a lessons management tool

Senior Constable Karen Connor, Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management

2:30pm Closing Keynote: Research utilisation as a tool for lessons management

Natural Hazards Research Australia

MONITORED PERFORMANCE

Choosing and using the right fire monitor can make all the difference when it comes to warding off disaster.

It’s important to have the right type of monitor to detect the risks your premises may be facing.

BOB GRIEVE

Delta Fire Australasia Pty Ltd

Fire monitors are a frontline firefighting resource, particularly in high-hazard environments. In such situations, action needs to be both prompt and efficient if an initial outbreak is not to escalate quickly into an inferno with dire consequences for mega-milliondollar assets, the lives of employees and firefighters, and the surrounding environment.

So, while—thankfully—fire monitors

spend most of their time inactive, when the call to action comes, they have to be in tip-top working order, matched to the particular fire risk, and either located where they are needed or able to be swiftly moved to where the action is.

Although there are a growing number of first-rate fire monitors on the market, there are really just two types— fixed and mobile monitors.

Fixed monitors, as the term implies, are attached permanently in place to pipework and positioned to attack a fire at a specific fire risk. This is most often for high-hazard Class B fire

risks that involve flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, solvents, lubricants, or spirits. Fixed monitors are commonly used for the protection of petrochemical refineries, liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas facilities, tank farms, fuel distribution depots and loading jetties, chemical processing plants, offshore rigs, maritime facilities, or aircraft hangars where the position of the fire risk is constant.

The second type of monitor, the mobile or portable monitor, is used to tackle the same Class B fires, but is

versatile enough to protect fire risks around a particular site or facility. They can be trailer mounted for fast deployment, or positioned by hand. In either case, they do require a water supply, which is usually provided by a hose connection to a hydrant or portable pumps, highlighting the importance of the positioning and effectiveness of fire hydrants. Clearly, choosing between fixed monitors or mobile equipment can have serious implications; and it is not a straightforward decision. For example, a fixed monitor can be brought into action to fight a fire faster than a mobile unit. However, major petrochemical fires are often preceded by one or more explosions that have the very real potential to destroy fixed monitors before they have had time to be brought into effective action. So, relying entirely on fixed monitors can be a high-risk strategy.

On the other hand, mobile or portable monitors inevitably experience some delay before firefighting commences and it is imperative that a site’s possible fire scenarios are carefully assessed so that this delay is not extended while, for example, the most effective positioning of the monitors is established. This requires expert fire planning, taking full account of the throw characteristics of the monitors, the proximity of hydrants, the need for the correct hoses or pumps, and, in some instances, even the possible prevailing wind direction and speed.

For many facilities, the best solution is a combination of fixed and portable monitors, with fixed monitors acting as the first line of defence, and portable monitors used to protect bunds, deal with fuel spillages and vapour concentrations, and cool adjacent fire risks.

Major petrochemical fires are often preceded by one or more explosions that have the very real potential to destroy fixed monitors before they have had time to be brought into effective action. So, relying entirely on fixed monitors can be a high-risk strategy.

Monitor operating method

Monitors can be operated either manually by the firefighter or be remotely controlled. Remotely controlled monitors mean that a firefighter can operate the equipment at a safe distance from the fire, is able to redirect the monitor in both the horizontal and vertical planes, and, on the most versatile units, can adjust the flow, stream pattern, and throw of the monitor.

Power is either hydraulic or electric, with each having particular benefits, and many manufacturers now offer the option of both, as well as both manually operated and remotely controlled monitors.

For applications where the monitor is likely to be used in areas where explosive gases may be present, electric remote control can be supplied with explosion-proof European Energy Exchange (EEx) (e) and flameproof EEx (de) electrical equipment in accordance with ATmosphères EXplosibles (ATEX) guidelines.

These ATEX guidelines are similar to the US National Electrical Code guidelines, although the former system seems to be widely regarded as the more comprehensive of the two, so is often preferred.

The International Electrotechnical Commission standard is now mandatory for electrical equipment in Europe and the Asia Pacific region to ensure consistency in manufacturing.

High hazard locations, such as petrochemical refineries, may require a mix of fixed and portable monitors, depending on the possible

PHOTOS:BOB GRIEVE

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

fire scenarios.

Portable monitors such as this can be moved to where they are needed, but may face delays while being set up.

Ticking the right boxes

A site operator needs to be able to depend on a monitor to deliver its promised performance at a moment’s notice. With monitors now in widespread use protecting a wide spectrum of high-risk facilities, they need to be robust and unerringly reliable even in the most demanding chemical and marine working conditions. Monitors manufactured with corrosion-resistant materials, such as high-grade stainless steel for the monitor body and bronze for the nozzle and bearings, have a better build quality, lower maintenance requirements, and an extended working life, so they have an obvious appeal.

The jet reaction force of a monitor can be considerable, so even the smaller portable hand-positioned monitors need to be securely restrained to ensure that they remain ‘on target’ when in operation. The larger mobile monitors that are often trailer-mounted rely on the stability of the trailer unit,

With monitors now in widespread use protecting a wide spectrum of high-risk facilities, they need to be robust and unerringly reliable even in the most demanding chemical and marine working conditions.

so frequently incorporate stabilising outriggers similar to those used to provide stability to aerial platforms or ‘cherry pickers’. Some trailers incorporate water tanks that increase the trailer’s weight and provide additional stability, at least while the water tank is full.

When selecting a mobile monitor its compactness, weight, and whether it incorporates low-friction bearings for easy manoeuvrability are also potentially important considerations to be taken into account.

Which monitor?

Several manufacturers produce ranges of quality-built monitors, particularly those manufactured in Sweden/Germany and Korea, which are widely used across the Asia Pacific region and include portable, oscillating, manually operated, and remote hydraulically operated and electrically operated fog/jet, water/foam monitors1. Many of these models are Factory Mutual approved and certified by such globally renowned organisations as Det Norske Veritas, Registro Italiano Navale, and Bureau Veritas.

In these ranges, portable monitors are typically available that can deliver up to 3,000 litres a minute and come with the option of dual connection, automatic oscillation, and a builtin foam-inducting nozzle. Manually operated, self-oscillating monitors are available with capacities of 3,700 L/min, 6,000 L/min and 11,700 L/min.

Some models incorporate built-in foam induction, and (depending on the model and capacity) have a range of between 75 m and more than 90 m. These capacities and throw lengths

are extended in some of the manually operated monitors, where the capacity is 20,000 L/min and the maximum throw is over 120 m.

The remotely controlled hydraulic monitor has capacities of 6,000 L/min and 11,700 L/min, with a throw in excess of 90 m. By comparison, a remotely controllable electric monitor range offers up to 6,000 L/min to a maximum jet throw of 80 m, 11,700 L/min to a distance just over 90 m, and a reach of 120 m and the flow to 20,000 L/min.

Optional components include a control and operating panel, which can be custom-built, suction hose and valve, and explosion-protected EEx (e) and flameproof EEx (de) electrical equipment. All include a manual override option.

Large capacity ‘FiFi’ monitors with dual capacity of 5,000 L and 20,000 L are predominantly in marine applications; special order monitors with flows of in excess of 30,000 L are also available.

For further information, go to www.deltafire.com.au.

FOOTNOTES

1Oscillating monitors automatically move from side to side when discharging and are normally pre-set to swing back and forth over a given arc, typically set to arcs of 30°, 50°, 70° and 100° to deliver a uniform foam or water blanket in every sweep. Fixed-nozzle monitors have nozzles that have a pre-set angle of elevation and discharge pattern calculated to deliver the most effective stream pattern and range.

EMERGENCY WARNING SYSTEMS:

SUPPLEMENTARY DEVICES AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

This is the third and final article in the series about emergency warning systems. The two previous articles covered some aspects of speech intelligibility and sound pressure level conformance. This article covers technical requirements for supplementary warning devices, such as visual alarm devices, visual warning devices, and warning equipment for people with hearing impairment, and briefly reviews potential future developments with addressable loudspeakers and speech intelligibility estimation methods.

VYACHESLAV (SLAVA) SHARGORODSKY

Newsound Fire Services

Around midnight on Monday 26 April 2021, two police officers were patrolling in Mount Isa, Queensland, when they heard the loud sound of a smoke alarm coming from an apartment building. Speaking later to Nine News,1 one of the police officers noted: “We don’t ever usually go down that street, it’s a dead end, it’s super quiet.”

Luckily on that night they did. They recognised that one of the ground floor units was on fire, having seen smoke and flames through one of the windows, and realised that somebody was inside. Breaking down the front door, they woke up the 68-year-old

deaf occupant sleeping in his bed and brought him to safety. One of the police officers later said they were simply in the “right place at the right time”.

Warning devices for people with hearing impairment

The incident in Mount Isa highlights the importance of adopting emergency warning systems (EWSs) to the needs of hearing-impaired people and the difficulties of doing so.

There are solutions, but the cost difference can be significant—while ordinary smoke alarms may cost on average between $10 and $70, kits for the hearing impaired can cost up to $800, and while fire authorities in some Australian states run subsidy schemes, it is done on a rather ad hoc basis.

There are also inherent technical

difficulties and risks in allowing an enduser to assemble and connect a smoke alarm kit.

The current version of AS 1603.17

Warning equipment for people with hearing impairment, published in 2020, offers solutions to this problem. To provide emergency warnings for people with hearing impairment, it allows for the use of:

„ vibro-tactile devices, e.g. vibrating pads or pillow-shakers

„ visual alarm devices (VADs); for example, light strobes

„ low-frequency sound devices. These supplementary warning devices may be connected to either:

„ a basic smoke alarm system

„ complex automatic Fire Detection and Alarm Systems (FDAS) conforming to AS 1670.1

Emergency warning systems not only need speakers, but also need visual and physical alarm devices to alert the hearing impaired.

PHOTO: ETIENNE GIRARDET / UNSPLASH

Visual alarm devices, visual warning devices, and vibro-tactile devices work together to alert hearing impaired people of imminent risks.

„ Emergency Warning Control and Indicating Equipment (EWCIE) referenced in AS 1670.4, commonly known as the Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System (EWIS) standard.

The warning devices are generally intended to be used within sleeping areas of residential accommodations (Class 1, 2, 3, 4, and 9c buildings as per the Building Code of Australia classification) and also provide some flexibility in use—pillow-shakers and vibrating pads may be used to wake up sleeping people, while VADs may alert those already awake, watching TV in the living room for example.

One of the important requirements in current standard AS 1603.17-2020 is that power supplies for compliant emergency warning devices must conform only to AS 3786 or AS 7240.4, imposing stringent conditions on main and standby power sources for these devices.

Visual alarm devices

The use and application of VADs is generally regulated by AS 1670.1 (FDAS) and AS 1670.4 (EWIS). Despite similar requirements in both standards:

„ VADs specified as part of an AS 1670.4-compliant EWIS system must be controlled by EWCIE and shall not be connected to Fire Detection Control and Indicating Equipment (FDCIE)

„ VADs specified as part of AS 1670.1-compliant FDAS system

must be controlled by FDCIE and shall not be connected to EWCIE. These separation requirements apply for these two systems unless they are overridden by a performance solution. Generally, VADs are intended to be used in any of these situations:

„ areas designated for persons with hearing impairment

„ where background noise sound pressure level is higher than 85 dB

„ where the wearing of hearing protection devices is required (e.g. in plant rooms)

„ where an audible warning is not allowed (e.g. in audio recording studios or surgical theatres)

„ where a sliding fire door or fire shutter is installed

„ where an external alarm/strobe is required by AS 1670.1 for fire brigade attention

„ where live speech is provided, but speech intelligibility (SI) requirements are not met. The use of VADs to ‘compensate’ for a lack of required SI level is somewhat controversial and the subject of several heated debates among professionals. Some practitioners believe visual warning devices (VWDs, discussed below) could be more effective for such purposes, as more detailed visual information may be broadcast to the evacuating occupants in the form of text messages or graphical images. VADs used as part of AS 1670.1 and AS 1670.4-compliant systems must

conform with AS ISO 7240.23, which identifies three classes of VADs:

„ one for ceiling-mounted (Class C) devices

„ one for wall-mounted (Class W) devices

„ open class (Class O) devices.

The maximum coverage range of each type of VAD is determined by the device manufacturers, measuring the light output distribution within part of the hemisphere surrounding it. The standard, AS ISO 7240.23, considers only direct lighting emitted by a VAD when defining its coverage range and does not count indirect lighting (e.g. VAD light reflecting from surrounding surfaces).

Some external factors may influence the effectiveness of VADs, such as ambient light levels and whether the light is visible directly or indirectly. So, in some cases, a performance solution may be sought, using so-called ‘multiplication factors’ in VAD coverage range calculations. The UK-based BRE Global research centre published a Code of Practice for Visual Alarm Devices Used for Fire Warning, 2 including multiplication factors that may be used to increase or decrease the coverage range specified by manufacturer.

Class C VADs are normally specified as C-x-y, where:

„ x is the maximum height, in metres, between 2.5 m and 10 m at which the VAD may be mounted

„ y is the diameter, in metres, of the

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

coverage cylindrical volume when the VAD is mounted at the ceiling height.

Class W VADs are normally specified as W-x-y, where:

„ x is the maximum height of the VAD on the wall, in metres, with a minimum value of 2.4 m „ y is the width of a square room, in metres, covered by the VAD. So, for example, C-3-10 refers to a ceiling-mounted device, with a maximum allowed mounting height of 3 m, providing compliant coverage within a cylindrical-shaped volume of 10 m diameter, while W-2.7-8 refers to a wall-mounted device, with a maximum mounting height of 2.7 m, providing compliant coverage within a squarecuboid-shaped volume of (2.7 × 8 × 8) m.

However, for Class O VADs, the coverage volume dimensions and shape (in which the required illumination is achieved) and recommended mounting position of the VAD have to be specified by a manufacturer.

Visual warning devices

VWDs are intended to provide supplementary emergency warning information in the form of text message displays or optionally text and graphic displays. VWDs may have fixed or programmable messages, be of detachable or fixed construction, use flashing messages and be remotely controlled.

The use and application of VWDs is

regulated by AS 1670.1 and AS 1670.4 and they must also conform with AS 1603.11-2018. Where VWDs are needed in special hazards applications, they must be installed as per AS 1670.5 requirements.

Unfortunately, not many VWDs are available on the Australian market at present. Nevertheless, the situation may change in the near future as they are considered to be an effective tool in broadcasting detailed visual emergency information to the evacuating occupants in the form of text messages or graphical images, where SI requirements cannot be met.

Potential future developments

There are many noteworthy trends in future EWS development so it is not possible to cover all of them in this short article, but we will note a few.

One relates to the use of active and/or addressable loudspeakers, as permitted by both AS 1670.1 and AS 1670.4. Active speakers combine a low-power audio amplifier and a loudspeaker within the one enclosure and, while not new technology, they have multiple advantages, as they allow:

„ addressability of an active speaker

„ localised volume adjustment for hospital, aged care and shopping centre environments

„ automatic volume adjustment depending on ambient noise background, such as in shopping centres or airports.

„ dedicated multi-zone localised public address paging, such as in railway stations, airports or offices. In some cases, they can also achieve the required SI level through localised compensation for room acoustic deficiencies.

These systems improve overall reliability of the EWS by using multiple distributed audio amplifiers instead of one large single zone amplifier (in case of failure of which, all loudspeakers in the affected zone cease operating).

Another potential development relates to the possible enhancement of SI measurement methodology. While the current Speech Transmission Index for Public Address Systems method works well with old analog audio amplification equipment, it fails in the new digital world, where audio signals are transmitted and processed using digital speech or music compression algorithms.

But this discussion is for another day and another article.

1. Nine News, 2021, Police Rescue Deaf Man from Apartment Fire in Queensland’, www.9news.com.au/national/mount-isapolice-save-sleeping-deaf-man-fromapartment-fire/28729049-65de-4df0-84d4dda93541465b

2. BRE Global, LPCB, 2012, Loss Prevention Code of Practice CoP 0001 Issue 1.0 Code of Practice for Visual Alarm Devices Used for Fire Warning.

If designing detection and alarm solutions for residences with hearing impaired occupants, thought is needed as to how to alert residents to fire danger.

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

SEASONAL BUSHFIRE OUTLOOK: SHIFTING FIRE RISKS

AFAC’s Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Autumn 2023 shows Australia’s recent wetter than average season will shift to drier conditions this season, with much of the country likely to see below average rainfall and normal to above normal temperatures.

Most of Australia shows normal fire potential during the autumn outlook period, but destructive and deadly fires can still occur during normal bushfire seasons across Australia.

Drier than average soil moisture is expected in late autumn for the Murray–Darling Basin, Tasmania, and western WA, suggesting vegetation growth from high moisture in spring 2022 may be drying out in the first half of 2023. This is leading to high bushfire fuel loads in some places.

Elevated fuel loads, due to above average grass growth over summer and expected drier climate conditions persisting into autumn, are driving above normal fire potential in central western WA and the southern half of the state. Likewise, areas of NSW are expected to see an elevated risk of fast-spreading grass fires. Warm conditions are also driving above normal bushfire potential for southern Queensland in early autumn, extending toward the coast later in the season.

Some forested areas across NSW and the ACT show below normal fire potential due to increased fuel moisture from good rainfall received over spring and summer, and in regions recovering from the 2019–20 fires. However, these areas are accumulating regrowth quickly following favourable growing conditions, which may increase fire risk in the future.

AFAC bushfire specialist Dr Simon Heemstra said the shift in climate drivers influencing Australia means the hazard risks are shifting too.

“While consecutive La Niña events have now passed, we are left with

increased vegetation growth in many locations due to sustained rainfall. This is driving increased fuel loads and fire potential as we move into predicted drier conditions,” he said.

“Australian fire authorities are mindful of these recent and predicted climatic conditions and their influence on the flammability of the landscape this season, notably relating to grassfires which can move quickly and can be deadly. As we move out of summer season, we urge communities to be mindful of residual fire risk in their area.”

Climate influences on fire potential

Seasonal fire conditions depend on many factors such as the amount and type of fuel, and how dry that fuel is. These factors are in turn influenced

by recent rainfall, temperatures, and soil moisture.

It was wet over much of northern Australia over summer, marking the 11th wettest December to February period since records began in 1900. Significant flooding affected the Barkly and Kimberley regions of northern Australia due to ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie in late December and early January, while flooding also affected the Murray and Darling rivers in western NSW and SA following on from extensive flooding across the Basin during spring.

In contrast, areas of south-west WA, western Tasmania, south-east Queensland, and north-east NSW experienced below average rainfall, and dry areas of southwest WA and the Western Downs of Queensland saw a number of bushfires occur during early 2023.

ALANA BEITZ AFAC

PHOTO: NORTHERN TERRITORY FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE

Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Autumn 2023

2-WAY WEATHERPROOF MUSIC HORN SPEAKERS

The CS-761BS is a compact 2-way weatherproof speaker system designed for high efficiency, high power input handling capacity, and is a high intelligible speaker suited for public address announcement and BGM application in outdoor environments.

Australia’s recent climate has been influenced by several climate drivers that initially favoured wetter than average conditions for some or all of the continent. These included the third consecutive La Niña, which re-established in late September 2022 and continued but weakened through the 2022–23 summer, and a negative Indian Ocean Dipole event, which became established in July 2022 and dissipated in December 2022.

A positive Southern Annular Mode also persisted throughout summer, finally easing back to neutral in February. Warmer than average ocean temperatures persisted around Australia, particularly in the northern tropics and Coral Sea. In mid-February, a strong Madden–Julian Oscillation passed northern Australia, triggering several tropical lows and at least two tropical cyclones.

The persistence of a positive Southern Annular Mode through summer meant cold fronts generally stayed south of the continent. As a result, drier conditions continued in south-west WA and western Tasmania, and at times south-western facing coastlines of south-eastern Australia.

These climate factors, coupled with the mitigation and preparedness activities of Australian fire authorities, mean that fire potential can vary greatly, even at the smaller scale, between bordering states and territories. Each state and territory’s assessment takes into account different land use types and vegetation types. This is influenced by different forecasts for temperature and rainfall over these regions.

The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook is released quarterly at the beginning of each season, and is developed by:

„ AFAC

„ Bureau of Meteorology

„ Queensland Fire and Emergency Services

„ NSW Rural Fire Service

„ ACT Emergency Services Agency

„ ACT Parks and Conservation Service

„ Country Fire Authority Victoria

„ Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action Victoria

„ Tasmania Fire Service

„ SA Country Fire Service

„ Department of Fire and Emergency Services and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions WA

„ Bushfires NT.

View the full AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for autumn 2023, including the Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range forecasts and jurisdictional summaries of fire risk for each state and territory, at www.afac.com.au/docs/default-source/bushfire-seasonaloutlook/seasonaloutlook_autumn_2023_v1-0.pdf.

The external speaker component is finished to ensure the unit’s weatherproof ability, and special paint coat prevents colour degradation, ensuring its long-lasting exterior condition. This model is designed with a rotary switch that facilitates hassle-free impedance change.

• Excellent speech intelligibility and music clarity

• AS7240.24:2018 certified

• High sound pressure: 117 dB

• Greatest all-rounder for semi-outdoor and outdoor applications: High weather durability, water protected and dust-tight (IP66 certified).

• Rotary switch facilitates hassle-free impedance change

• Special paint coat prevents colour degradation, ensuring long-lasting exterior condition

• Flexibility of mounting: on a platform, on the ceiling, on the wall or on a pole

• Available in Black and White colour

For all product and pricing enquiries. E proaudio@australismusic.com.au W australismusic.com.au

CS-761B

CS-761W

SOURCE: AFAC

BUILDING CLADDING WITH RECYCLED GLASS

SCORES SKY-HIGH RESULTS IN SUSTAINABILITY

Engineers have developed new fire-safe building claddings using recycled glass, creating a promising circular-economy solution to address a major waste stream.

WILL

An RMIT University team worked with materials technology company Livefield to produce the composite cladding, which they say is cheap, structurally robust, and fire-resistant. Lead researcher Associate Professor Dilan Robert, from the School of Engineering, said using recovered glass waste as an alternative cladding material could one day help reduce the amount of glass that goes to landfill. Globally, about 130 million tonnes of glass are produced each year, but only 21% of that is recycled glass.

The team’s non-combustible claddings use 83% recycled glass, along with relatively low amounts of plastic binders and fire-retardant additives.

Associate Professor Robert said their special blend of materials overcame the challenges with glass

claddings, which were brittle and prone to fracture, as the plastic binders provided “improved toughness”.

“Experiments have proven that our claddings are fire-safe, water-resistant and cheap, and meet structural and environmentally sustainable requirements,” he said.

The technology has met the key compliance requirement of claddings for non-combustibility (AS 1530.1) set by Standards Australia.

The technology, which is now being patented by Livefield, has been trialled for large-scale manufacturing capability.

Panels using the team’s technology are installed at RMIT’s Bundoora campus to demonstrate the technology’s feasibility as building claddings.

“Livefield is keen to upscale the manufacturing process of the recycled class composite cladding, with further research support from RMIT,” Associate Professor Robert said.

A sustainable solution to a big waste challenge

Associate Professor Robert said millions of tonnes of reusable glass goes needlessly into landfill every year, and more glass could be recycled into products in the construction industry.

“Glass is one of the most recyclable materials in the world as it doesn’t lose its quality or purity, and it can be recycled for multiple uses across a wide range of industries,” he said.

“By using high amounts of recycled glass in building claddings, while ensuring they meet fire safety and other standards, we are helping to find a solution to the very real waste challenge.”

Associate Professor Robert said the research team of civil and material engineers was keen to work with industry around the world to find more ways of using recycled glass in products.

“Re-use of glass that would

Building claddings play a key role in preventing the spread of fire, particularly in high-rise buildings.

otherwise go to landfill will bring environmental, economic and social benefits,” he said.

Making city buildings fire-safe with the circular economy

Associate Professor Robert said testing of the new cladding materials for fire safety was an important focus of the research.

“Claddings play a key role in preventing the spread of fire, particularly in high-rise buildings,” he said.

“Some of the most catastrophic building fires, like the 2017 Grenfell tower fire in London that led to many deaths and injuries, have been attributed to the poor fire-prevention performance of cladding materials.”

He noted that these tragic events underscored the importance of understanding and designing fire-resistant cladding materials

and systems for the building and construction sector.

“Building fires can happen anywhere at any time and cannot be predicted. Therefore, fire safety requirements should be embedded in the design of buildings.”

The power of collaboration

This successful project is a major collaboration involving RMIT, Cooperative Research Centres Projects grants, the ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hub for Transformation of Reclaimed Waste Resources to Engineered Materials and Solutions for a Circular Economy (TREMS), Sustainability Victoria, and other industry support. Associate Professor Robert led the project with support from RMIT colleagues Dr Edwin Baez, Associate Professor Everson Kandare, Professor Sujeeva Setunge, and Professor Kevin Zhang.

PHOTO: RMIT UNIVERSITY

PHOTO: 123RF

PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

Associate Professor Dilan Robert (left) and Associate Professor Everson Kandare with cladding samples made with recycled glass and other materials.

Globally, about 130 million tonnes of glass are produced each year, but only 21% of that is recycled glass.

NOMINATE NOW FOR 2023–24 AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF POLICE MANAGEMENT LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS

AFAC is supporting capability development across the emergency management sector through its annual offering of leadership programs and courses. In partnership with the Australian Institute of Police Management, AFAC conducts a range of courses in executive leadership and organisational strategy.

The calendar of programs for the 2023–24 financial year has now been finalised and expressions of interest are open for the following programs that are scheduled for the second half of 2023:

Executive Development Strategy 2

Enhance your capability to work more effectively with senior executive teams. This course will sharpen your ability to make better decisions for organisational alignment and strategy in technological, cultural, and operational renewal. The course offers a broad range of development strategies including organisational engagement and personal coaching to complement peer-based learning and Australian Institute of Police Management (AIPM) facilitation. Prepare for the challenges of leading across your organisation and across agencies, and explore the changing leadership expectations, especially for organisational knowledge, wellness, diversity, collaboration, accountability, technical expertise, and political nous, from the business area to the organisational level.

Executive Development Strategy 3

This course is designed to reflect the diversity and complexity of modern police and fire and emergency services organisations, meeting the needs of both high-performing and high-potential participants. Discover a diversity of leadership development approaches including personal learning through coaching, organisational learning through manager–participant commitments, and peer-based learning through residential workshops and digital engagement. This course draws upon peer and organisational perspectives on contemporary tensions including policy, operations, executive,

and team to help you identify and take responsibility for your own leadership and learning journey.

Graduate Certificate in Applied Management

The Graduate Certificate is now delivered as a fully supported distance learning experience that builds deep personal resilience. You will be supported by the AIPM visiting fellows during this six-month personal and organisational commitment to education and leadership development. Organisational leadership is the key focus of the education, with codified knowledge and personal experience underpinning the practice of academic research, argument, and writing skills— all of which are highly regarded skills for effective leadership. The Graduate Certificate in Applied Management is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency and is the first step towards the AIPM Graduate Diploma of Executive Leadership (Policing and Emergency Services).

Graduate Diploma of Executive Leadership (Policing and Emergency Services)

Leadership development through academic study builds a leader’s maturing capability for high levels of critical thought and enables them to be a more discerning user of research. The AIPM Graduate Diploma focuses on the role of executives in organisational leadership. Recent design changes to the residential session shift the focus from individual completion to group-based collective achievement. While this course is delivered as a fully supported distance learning experience, the residential session actively nurtures a diversity of leadership thinking and innovation in practice for achieving better organisational outcomes.

AIPM Balance

This course enhances the skills and knowledge of women in public safety, building their influence and responsibility to support better organisational performance. Balance has been a foundational development and professional networking opportunity since its inception in 2015. Drawing upon the key successful elements of effective development, professional networking, and real-time workplace application, this course builds a layered learning approach by moving from self-paced learning into the one-week residential or hosted online intensive.

Frontline: Leading for Performance

This is a foundational development opportunity for building effective leadership practices and personal growth for team leaders and operational supervisors. Better organisational performance is supported by frontline leaders capable of deploying a range of effective leadership approaches to meet the challenges posed by an increasingly complex operational environment and a diversifying community and workforce. Frontline explores leadership from the perspective of complexity and diversity, with a focus on encouraging individual capability, continual growth, and learning, and building your skills for better assessing and responding to complex operational, procedural, and cultural change issues.

For more detail on each course including dates, costs, and nomination forms, visit www.afac.com.au/ initiative/leadership

Stand out. Train with us.

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C o n t a c t u s t o d a y :

training@fpaa.com.au

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t h e f i r e p r o t e c t i o n q u a l i f i c a t i o n s y o u n e e d

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“ T h e C e r t i f i c a t e I I c o u r s e h a s g i v e n m e t h e k n o w l e d g e a n d c o n f i d e n c e t o p r e s e n t t o c l i e n t s a s w e l l a s w i t h i n t h e i n d u s t r y w h e n c o n d u c t i n g t e s t i n g a n d i n s p e c t i o n s . ”

P A T R I C K M A R K O S

S a l e s a n d S e r v i c e T e c h n i c i a n

W E ' V E G O T T H E R I G H T C O U R S E F O R Y O U .

S T A R T

I M P R O V E

A C Q U I R E

PERSPECTIVES FROM THE SECTOR

In this regular series, AFAC CEO Rob Webb interviews a leader in the fire and emergency services. In this edition, he speaks with Tasmania Fire Service Chief Officer Dermot Barry about fire and emergency service reforms in the island state.

Tasmania Fire Service Chief Officer Dermot Barry is welcoming a new era for Tasmania’s emergency services sector.

Tasmania is moving to merge its fire and SES services into a unified agency, Tasmania Fire and Emergency Services. What drove this decision, and how will this be done?

Tasmania’s Fire Service Act 1979 is over 43 years old, and after more than six years of comprehensive reviews and public consultation, the Tasmanian Government is establishing new legislation to replace it. Under the new Act, Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) and State Emergency Service (SES)

will unite to become the Tasmania Fire and Emergency Service (TFES). Importantly, our staff and volunteers from each organisation will still be easily identifiable as they will continue to proudly wear their respective TFS or SES uniforms and retain those identities. This reform will help us to ensure we are best positioned to prepare for and respond to emergencies to keep Tasmanians safe in the face of disaster. A reform project team is being established to progress the drafting of new legislation.

How will the merger benefit and build connections between fire and emergency service staff and volunteers?

Formally uniting the TFS and SES under one roof is an exciting opportunity and positive step forward for both of our organisations. Tasmanians rely upon our staff and volunteers to fight fires, attend road crashes and rescue victims, undertake search and rescue operations, and respond to storm, flood, and other natural disaster events. We have seen in recent years how

PHOTO: TFS

important collaboration is between the SES and TFS—this was never more the case than over recent months as we worked closely together to respond to the floods and fires in Tasmania.

We currently have over 5,400 volunteers across the two organisations who provide critical support to our communities. Uniting them and our staff under a strong new chain of command will set us up for success, ensuring we can meet the demands of tomorrow as our population increases, and in the face of more frequent and severe natural disasters. The new Act will also protect and enshrine our volunteers in legislation, including provisions that give them greater protection as they work hard to keep Tasmanians safe.

How will your role change as Commissioner, Tasmania Fire and Emergency Service? What leadership mindset will you take into this position?

As the Chief Fire Officer, I currently have multiple reporting lines, including to the State Fire Commission, the Secretary of the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management, and the Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management.

These reforms will give the Commissioner, Fire and Emergency Services greater authority and autonomy to lead the emergency service, establishing a new strong chain of command.

In terms of leadership mindset, the reforms will ensure we have a strong and united emergency service and that those on the ground who are doing the hard work have a voice at the table through the Fire and Emergency Service Committee (involving representatives from all relevant stakeholder groups), which will be able to provide advice directly

JOINT EDITORS

PAUL WATERHOUSE (FPA AUSTRALIA)

Tel +61 3 8892 3133

paul.waterhouse@fpaa.com.au

ALANA BEITZ (AFAC)

Tel +61 3 9418 5233

alana.beitz@afac.com.au

to the Commissioner. The Tasmania SES Director will also be a key part of the leadership team, devoted to overseeing and supporting our volunteers.

Although Tasmania saw a comparatively mild summer of fire activity, can you reflect on the season and share your highlights and observations? Thankfully we did have a mild season, but our staff and volunteers were certainly kept busy as they worked to keep bushfires contained across the state. Our strategy of using aerial appliances to hit fires hard and fast with a rapid weight of attack was successful and is certainly an approach we’ll continue to use.

A personal highlight was the successful first fire response coordinated from our new State Operations Centre, followed by a seamless transition to storm/flood operations as the fire weather ended with a large storm.

FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA (FPA AUSTRALIA)

ABN 30 005 366 576

PO Box 1049 Box Hill VIC 3128 Australia

Tel +61 3 8892 3133

Fax +61 3 8892 3132

magazine@fpaa.com.au www.fpaa.com.au

Looking forward, what are your priorities for 2023? What are you excited to do next, and where will you put your focus?

Now that the government has made this decision, work will begin immediately to progress the reform as a priority, and we anticipate it will be implemented during 2023. Importantly this will involve extensive consultation with stakeholders, including current TFS and SES staff and volunteers. My focus will continue to be on making sure our people are properly supported as they fulfil their commitment to keep Tasmanians safe.

Tasmania’s new legislation will see Tasmania Fire Service and Tasmania State Emergency Service unite to become the Tasmania Fire and Emergency Service.

AFAC

ABN 52 060 049 327

Level 1, 340 Albert Street East Melbourne VIC 3002 Australia

Tel +61 3 9419 2388

Fax +61 3 9419 2389

afac@afac.com.au

www.afac.com.au

TO SUBMIT A CONTRIBUTION OR TO ADVERTISE IN FIRE AUSTRALIA, PLEASE CONTACT: PAUL WATERHOUSE FPA AUSTRALIA

TEL +61 3 8892 3133 magazine@fpaa.com.au

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Tel +61 3 9670 1168 www.coretext.com.au

PHOTO: TFS

PHOTO: TFS

WOMEN IN FIRE: FIVE YEARS OF THE CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE FIRE AND EMERGENCY GROUP

The latest report from the Champions of Change Fire and Emergency Group shows sustained progress in women’s representation across the fire and emergency sector over the past five years.

The Champions of Change Fire and Emergency 2022 Progress Report, released to coincide with International Women’s Day (8 March 2023), shows how organisations are accelerating gender equality in the traditionally male-dominated field of fire and emergency services.

The Champions of Change Fire and Emergency Group was established in 2017 with support from AFAC as the National Council for fire and emergency services, and convened by Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner, Kristen Hilton. The group includes chief executives, commissioners, and chief fire officers from 32 fire, emergency, and land management agencies across Australia and New Zealand, who collectively lead some 126,000 employees and volunteers.

The report provides a five-year

review of progress on women’s representation in the sector, including in frontline service delivery roles, documenting the progress that has been made since the group first reported in 2018.

“We need the best people throughout our emergency service organisations—and by definition, the best people include a rich variety of backgrounds and perspectives that build strong and effective teams,” said AFAC President and NSW State Emergency Service Commissioner, Carlene York APM.

On the release of this milestone progress report, the Group remains committed to advancing more women into leadership, progressing gender equality, and building professional, respectful, and inclusive environments for everyone in the sector.

“While we know that sustainable change takes time, it is important to reflect upon the progress that has been made toward greater gender equality in our sector. We must now use this momentum to enable inclusive, equitable organisations,” said AFAC CEO, Rob Webb.

ALANA BEITZ

AFAC

PHOTO: CFA

Safe and inclusive workplace cultures are critical to the retention and wellbeing of staff and volunteers.

Five years of gender action in the fire and emergency services

The report shows significant increases in women’s representation across the sector and in leadership roles at all levels:

„ 26.5% women’s representation achieved overall across the Group in 2022, increasing from 22% in 2018

„ 33% women’s representation achieved in Key Management Personnel roles overall across the Group in 2022, up from 26.9% in 2018

„ 37.6% women’s representation in General Manager roles overall, rising from 25.6% in 2018

„ 34.6% women’s representation achieved in Senior Manager roles across the Group in 2022, increasing from 21.9% in 2018

„ 22.2% overall women’s representation in frontline service delivery roles compared with 20.7% in 2018

„ 21% women’s representation in Key Management Personnel in frontline service delivery roles, an increase from 9.6% in 2018

„ 8.4% women’s representation in General Manager roles in frontline service delivery, which has decreased from 16.5% in 2018

„ 10.6% women’s representation in

BURNING AMBITION

Senior Manager roles in frontline service delivery, a decrease from 18.6% in 2018.

The report also shows the sector’s progress on a number of practical actions, spanning gender equality targets, parental leave policies, flexible work, sexual harassment processes, and pay equity—with varying levels of completion and commencement for the sector.

Taking the next steps forward

Barriers to women entering and progressing their careers in the fire and emergency sector still persist in recruitment, promotion, and career advancement.

Safe and inclusive workplace cultures are critical to the retention and wellbeing of employees and the Group has explored many topics that go to the heart of inclusion and respect at work, taking concrete action to address the issues that undermine inclusion.

These values and initiatives are shared in the report through profiles and case studies from across Australia and New Zealand, showing the individual ways that fire and emergency service agencies are working toward a collective goal.

As with every annual Champions of Change progress report, detailed data on workforce gender representation

PROGRESSREPORT

The Champions of Change Fire and Emergency Group progress report for 2022 documents five years of women’s representation and inclusion across the sector.

in every organisation in the Group is given, providing transparency and accountability on gender balance in leadership, recruitment, graduates, promotions, and exits.

To explore case studies, progress on practical actions, and workforce gender balance data, view the full Champions of Change Fire and Emergency 2022 Progress Report online: https:// championsofchangecoalition.org/ resource/champions-of-change-fire-andemergency-2022-progress-report/

For more information about the Champions of Change Fire and Emergency Group, visit https:// championsofchangecoalition.org/ groups/champions-of-change-fire-andemergency

PHOTO: NSW SES

SPECTACULAR SPRINKLER ‘SAVES’

Automatic sprinkler systems are designed to extinguish fires in the buildings in which they are installed, but there have been countless exposure fires throughout the world where they have rendered excellent service.

The great fire of Melbourne in 1897 was a dramatic case in point. It broke out in the block bordered by Swanston, Flinders, and Elizabeth Streets, and Flinders Lane, and was so severe that it destroyed most of the buildings in the block. The only building that remained standing was the Mutual Store, a department store that had an early Australian sprinkler system installed. While the building’s contents were significantly damaged, the Mutual Store survived the fire unscathed and remains standing at 256 Flinders Street to this day.

A quarter of a century later, severe exposure fires as far apart as Adelaide and Manchester again dramatically illustrated this point. In Adelaide, a major blaze in February 1923 resulted in the total loss of the extensive motor works

of Duncan and Fraser Limited, Franklin Street, ruining more than 100 cars. It also caused considerable damage to an adjoining unsprinklered building of the SA Farmers’ Co-operative Union. However, a new Co-op building on the corner of Franklin and Bentham Streets was fitted with automatic sprinkler protection. 154 sprinklers operated (the largest number operating in any one fire up to that time) with a total loss of £5,500, mainly due to water damage. Certainly, a significant ‘save’.

The Manchester fire occurred in May 1928, in the unsprinklered portion of Pownall’s hosiery and clothing factory on Stockport Road. Starting in the first floor cutting room, it spread rapidly and was so intense that fire appliances could not pass along the Stockport Road across the face of the burning building. The line of separation of the gutted building and the unharmed sprinklered portion consisted of a goods passageway on the ground level, and above this there was only a wall consisting largely of metalframed glass, which was a common form of construction in premises of this nature back then.

The glass in the dividing wall cracked and released a curtain of water from sprinklers in the protected building. More than 70 sprinklers operated along the dividing line between the sprinklered and unsprinklered portions and prevented fire spread to the exposed building. There was, of course, some water damage along the line of division, but the illustration (Image 1) shows the difference between the two blocks; one gutted and in ruins, the other with windows along the frontage still intact. This striking example of the value of automatic sprinkler protection stands on one of the main arteries of the city, and must have been seen and commented upon by hundreds to thousands of passers-by.

See the FPA Australia publication, Fire: A Century of Automatic Sprinkler Protection in Australia and New Zealand 1886–1986, pp. 31–33.

BARRY LEE OAM

This half of the building was not sprinklered. This half was!

1. The building on the right, saved, had the water brought into it in sprinkler pipes. The water stopped short of the destroyed premises—at the kerb!

2. The difference a sprinkler makes.

AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS

CE-030 Maritime structures

AS 4997 Guidelines for the design of maritime structures is being drafted by the Standards Committee.

EL-031 Alarm and electronic security systems

Public comment on the open supervised device protocol (OSDP) in AS/NZS IEC 60839.11.5 Alarm and electronic security systems, Part 11.5: Electronic access control systems closed on 3 February 2023, with no comments received.

AS 4421 Guards and patrol security services is being drafted by the Standards Committee.

EM-001 Electric Vehicle Operation

The Committee is drafting SA TS 5396 Technical Specification – Electric vehicle (EV) chargers for residential use and SA TS 5397 Technical Specification – Electric vehicle (EV) chargers for commercial applications.

FP-002 Fire detection, warning, control, and intercom systems

The Standards Committee is drafting AS 4428.17 Fire detection, warning, control, and intercom systems—Control and indicating equipment, Part 17: Fire services key and AS 7240.2 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, Part 2: Fire detection control and indicating equipment (ISO 7240-2:2017, MOD).

AS 1670.6 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems—System design, installation and commissioning, Part 6: Smoke alarm systems is out for ballot.

FP-004 Automatic fire sprinkler installations

Progress continues on drafting the revision of AS 2118.6 Automatic fire sprinkler systems, Part 6: Combined sprinkler and hydrant systems in multistorey buildings.

FP-018 Fire safety

Work continues on the revisions of AS 1530.1 (Combustibility test) and AS 1530.4 (Fire resistance tests).

FP-020 Construction in bushfire-prone areas

Work continues on the new handbook for Maintenance of construction in bushfire-prone areas (SA HB 208) and AS 3959 Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas.

LG-007 Emergency Lighting In Buildings

The Committee is drafting AS 2293. 1 Emergency lighting and exit signs for buildings, Part 1: System design, installation, and operation, AS 2293.2

Emergency lighting and exit signs for buildings, Part

2: Routine service and maintenance, AS 2293.3

Emergency lighting and exit signs for buildings, Part

3: Emergency luminaires and exit signs, and AS 4744.1 Steel shoring and trench lining – Design.

ME-002 Gas cylinders

Revisions of AS 2030.1 Gas cylinders, Part 1: General requirements and AS 2030.5 Gas cylinders, Part 5: Filling, inspection and testing of refillable cylinders are being drafted.

ME-015 Storage and Handling - Liquefied

Petroleum Gases

The Committee is drafting AS/NZS 1596 The storage and handling of LP Gas.

ME-062 Ventilation and Airconditioning

The Committee is drafting AS 1668.4 The use of ventilation and airconditioning in buildings, Part 4: Natural ventilation of buildings, AS/NZS 3666.1 Air-handling and water systems of buildings –Microbial control, Part 1: Design, installation and commissioning, AS/NZS 3666.2 Air-handling and water systems of buildings - Microbial control, Part

2: Operation and maintenance, AS/NZS 3666.3 Airhandling and water systems of buildings - Microbial control, Part 3: Performance-based maintenance of cooling water systems, and AS/NZS 3666.4 Airhandling and water systems of buildings - Microbial control, Part 4: Performance-based maintenance of

air-handling systems (ducts and components).

FPA Australia is advised about standards by our Technical Advisory Committees. Members interested in contributing can find out more at www.fpaa. com.au/advocacy-technical/ technical-advisorycommittees.aspx.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENTS

FPA Australia’s technical documents can be found at www.fpaa.com.au/advocacy-technical/technicaldocuments.aspx

LITHIUM BATTERY SIG

The Lithium Battery Special Interest Group (LB/ SIG) held its third meeting on Friday, 31 March, 2023. The focus of this meeting was to provide an update on the discussions and actions from each of the following streams: advocacy; research; technical; intervention; and maintenance and disposal.

The LB/SIG established the five stream groups following the first SIG meeting in January, where all members were provided the opportunity to nominate to be involved in one or more streams. Matthew Allen from the CFA has been appointed as Chair of the Group and Rob Llewellyn from International Fire Protection as Deputy Chair.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEES

TAC dates for 2023 were set for meetings in March, July, and November, including for the National Technical Advisory Committee, and the first meetings have now been held.

National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC)

The NTAC meeting was held online on Wednesday 5 April. Key topics discussed at this meeting included: „ rules for the operation of TACs and SIGs „ a review of the inter-relationships between TACs, SIGs, ARGs and state committees

„ a 2023 review of TAC Chairs, Deputy Chairs, and FPA Australia Standards representatives „ a summary and review of NCC issues and local state legislation issues

„ a summary and status of standards under each TAC.

available in due course. This is being developed because the TAC has concerns about extinguishers in the marketplace that don’t have proper approval.

TAC/4/8/9—Fire sprinkler and hydrants systems, tanks, and fixed fire pumps

The TAC met online on Wednesday 22 March. Significant work continues on the spacing of sprinkler heads in concealed spaces and hydrostatic testing of hydrant systems. Working groups are creating technical documents to improve guidance in these areas.

The TAC also discussed pre-action systems within AS 2118.1 2017, test provisions of AS 2419.1, fire rated supports, measuring sprinkler deflectors, and European laundries and the issues they present.

The Document TAN-11 Pumpset checklists has been completed and is available on the CONNECT platform of the FPA Australia website.

TAC/11/22—Special hazard fire protection systems

The TAC met online on Thursday 23 March.

A working group was formed to review the current FPA Australia technical document IB-06 V3 Selection and Use of Firefighting Foams to update references to relevant recent reports and publications. Version 4 is nearing completion.

The TAC has expressed interest in holding a future webinar or information session on AS 5062 and has discussed options for the annual testing of foam extinguishers and methods for disposing the foam.

TAC/17—Emergency planning

The TAC met online on Tuesday 28 March. Information bulletins IB-11 V2 Evacuation Diagrams and IB-23 V1 R.A.C.E. Emergency response procedures have now been published and are available on the FPA Australia website. The AS 3745 issue register is now complete and a proposal from TAC/17 will be forwarded to the Standards Australia FP-017 committee in due course. Other potential documents coming from this committee include a position statement on lifts used during evacuations, and a guidance note on emergency plans for independent and public schools (including kindergartens).

TAC/18/19—Passive fire protection

TAC/1—Maintenance

of fire protection systems and equipment

The TAC met online on Wednesday 8 March. Previously, FPA Australia set up an AS 1851 issues register that included a significant number of comments by TAC/1. This was distributed to all other committees for input.

Based on the responses to the AS 1851 issues register, a project proposal for AS 1851 was submitted to Standards Australia on 14 October. This project is still going through the approval process.

TAC/2—Fire detection and alarm systems

The TAC met online on Thursday 9 March.

A key focus for the committee was setting up several issues registers to collate items for relevant standard revisions.

The committee has some ongoing projects relating to Evidence of Suitability document, FDCIE monitoring setups, IP access level ratings, and the Technical Advisory Note on Building Occupant Warning Systems, which will be published in the next few months.

There was also a discussion relating to AS 1670.1 clause 5.1.5 about air exchange rates and how different scenarios are defined.

TAC/3/7—Portable and mobile equipment

The TAC met online on Friday 17 March.

A priority for TAC/3/7 in 2023 is to develop procedures for testing of lithium-ion fire extinguishers. The committee has progressed the revisions of AS 1841, AS 1850, and AS 2444.

Version 2 of the FPA Australia document TAN-09

Portable Fire Extinguishers: Lithium Batteries is currently in the final stage of drafting and should be

The TAC met online on Wednesday 29 March. Significant work continues with the working group on cavity barriers, with the first draft of a technical document almost complete. The guide on intumescent coatings and PS-05 Product Compliance and Evidence of Suitability have also been proposed for updating.

The Committee discussed training for passive fire protection, the recreation of the fire door working group, and progress with updating relevant standards.

TAC/20—Bushfire safety

The TAC met online on Wednesday 15 March. Key topics discussed included:

„ bushfire resilience and protection

„ external lithium-ion battery installations (new item)

„ continued work on a series of projects on effective slope calculations

„ guideline on assessment and classification of vegetation

„ bushfire behaviour webinar

„ ABCB class 9 proposals.

FIRE AUSTRALIA 2023

Returning to Sydney on 3–5 May 2023, Fire Australia 2023 will build upon last year’s successful event with an array of interesting speakers and topics, the leading suppliers in the industry, and lots of opportunity to mingle and network with your peers. Thirty-five topics will be presented across three stages at the ICC Sydney, covering the breadth of fire protection, and prompting lots of discussion about how to keep people, property, and the environment safe from the risk of fire. In addition, our world-class Tradeshow will showcase the best products and solutions that the fire sector has to offer and grant lots of chances to get insights from the distributors about how they can help you.

Book the dates in your diaries, because this Fire Australia is not one that you will want to miss. Visit www.fireaustralia.com.au for more information.

FPA AUSTRALIA EVENTS

FPA Australia runs a variety of technical events catering to the fire protection industry. Topics cover the breadth of the sector—wet systems, dry systems, passive fire, mechanical fire protection, special hazards, bushfire, emergency planning—and provide useful opportunities for practitioners to pick up continuing professional development points. Presented by leading experts, our seminars and technical webinars provide all the information you need about relevant fire safety topics. Recent topics have included baseline data, insurance, defects, and bushfire design, and we have got further seminars on mechanical smoke control, detection systems, and sprinklers in the pipeline.

For a full list of upcoming events, visit www.fpaa.com.au/events.aspx.

FPA+

Fire practitioners are busy people who cannot always make time to attend a live event. For this reason, FPA Australia has made its recorded webinars available through a new online portal, FPA+. This user-friendly website allows members and non-members alike to purchase our content and catch up on any events they have missed, earning continuing professional development points in the process. Free FPA Australia webinars can also be accessed through the portal, providing access to popular topic areas such as the requirements of the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme.

The website is a great way to access technical content in your own time and at your own leisure, without having to interrupt your workday, so visit www.fpaaplus.com.au to see our recorded webinars.

2023 BUSHFIRE ATTACK LEVEL SHORT COURSE DATES

For those interested in correctly assessing Bushfire Attack Levels and determining the construction requirements that apply, our dates have been selected for 2023:

Melbourne: 29 May–2 June, 21–25 August, 13–17 November

Perth: 24–28 July, 6–10 November

Brisbane: 17–21 April, 17–21 July

For details, visit www.fpaa.com.au/training/bushfire-training/ bushfire-attack-level-short-course

NATIONAL MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICE PERSONNEL

AFAC invites its Members and the public to attend the National Memorial Service in Canberra on 12 May 2023 to pay their respects to fire and emergency service personnel who have died in the line of duty. An AFAC Memorial Medallion will be presented to bereaved families, and the service will also acknowledge names added to the Memorial Wall, which recognises those who have died in the line of duty since records began. The event will take place at the National Emergency Service Memorial on Rond Terrace, at the southern end of ANZAC Parade in Parkes, ACT. The memorial service will also be livestreamed via AFAC YouTube.

Find out more at www.afac.com.au/memorial

LESSONS MANAGEMENT FORUM 2023

The 2023 Lessons Management Forum will be held in Canberra on 27–28 June 2023 to explore the challenges faced by lessons management practitioners and the wider emergency management community in turning observations into lessons learned. This hybrid event will explore the theme ‘Closing the loop: the challenges of change’. With an increase in emergencies, we are seeing a corresponding increase in the number of reviews, inquiries, and Royal Commissions. How do we prioritise learning from the lessons identified, while also balancing the implementation and monitoring of recommendations? How do we close the loop and truly learn and understand the underlying drivers of innovations and the challenges experienced? Are we truly learning the lesson?

The Lessons Management Forum is co-hosted by AFAC and the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience. Find out more online at www.aidr.org.au/events/33726

AFAC23 POWERED BY INTERSCHUTZ

Australasia’s most comprehensive emergency management conference and exhibition returns to Brisbane on 22–25 August 2023. This year, AFAC23 powered by INTERSCHUTZ takes a forward-looking focus to explore the theme ‘Creating a sustainable future: the challenges and opportunities’. The multi-awardwinning conference will include the Australian Disaster Resilience Conference, the Institution of Fire Engineers (Australia) National Conference, and the Women in Firefighting Australasia Conference, as well as the expansive exhibition space showcasing the latest in equipment and services. AFAC23 is supported by host agencies Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

More information is available online at www.afacconference.com.au

Specialised insurance cover for you and your business

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