AUGUST 2010
VOLUME 11 | 3
Revolutionary LED Technology
ᔡ News: plans for police reform and an end to fire and rescue service regionalisation ᔡ Registration open for ESS2010 – visit www.ess2010.com ᔡ How to operate a successful cycle response fleet and LAS celebrates 10 years of cycle response ᔡ Profile: a look at Premier Hazard, a market leader in the design and build of vehicle lightbars ᔡ Civil Resilience: National Resilience Extranet update and a report on Exercise Milo ᔡ Vehicles: a preview of NAPFM 2010 and new regulations on the way for private ambulances ᔡ A guide to some of the latest products and services available
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ᔡ Enter our Digital Photo Competition and win an iPad – see pg 57 ᔡ The Who’s Who Directory 2010/11 is OUT NOW! ISSN 1472-1090
CONTENTS | 1
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Regular features First Words Kim Wooldridge, Managing Director of REST UK, discusses the impact of the proposed Government spending cuts on the voluntary sector
3
News Government announces radical reforms for the police and an end to regionalisation of the fire and rescue services
6
Events A review of London Ambulance Service’s Olympics Conference plus a round up of forthcoming events
13
Page 71 – The role of the Fire and Rescue National Resilience Assurance Team.
Company Profile
Vehicles
Premier Hazard, a British company that has grown into a market leader in the design and build of vehicle lightbars, auxiliary lighting, sirens and other associated equipment
38
Contracts & People Quantitech signs air pollution equipment deal, Babcock International acquires the VT Group and a new CFO for Fife Fire and Rescue Service
51
Profile Chris Patzelt, General Secretary of the Football Safety Officers Association, discusses sports ground safety
54
Inside this issue What’s in store at NAPFM 2010, considering medical care during extrication, the UK’s first fire bikes, new regulations for private ambulances and BMW branches out
14
Cycle Response How to operate a successful cycle fleet, LAS celebrates 10 years of cycle response and Cleveland Fire Brigade start Arson Cycle Patrols
40
Road Safety A road safety round up including a national launch for the CRASH card scheme and details of Road Safety Week
45
The Emergency Services Show 2010 Registration is now open for the UK’s only event for anyone involved in response, recovery or emergency planning – book your place now at www.ess2010.com
55
Civil Contingencies Including Ambulance Victoria’s response to the heatwave and bushfires of 2009, a report on Exercise Milo from the HPA plus how the National Resilience Extranet is enabling multi-agency collaboration across the UK
59
South Yorkshire Police have produced a training package aimed at reducing gun and knife crime
88
Technology Body-worn video camera, search and rescue mobile app, rapid ANPR, mobile fingerprint scanner and more…
90
Product Information HAIX and Magnum launch new boots, plus TETRA radios, mobile gas detectors, emergency medical kits
92
Last Words Joe Lake, Managing Director, Lion Apparel, discusses the importance of managed services in times of unprecedented budget restrictions
96
Page 24 – Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service launch the UK’s first fire bikes.
Emergency Services Times August 2010
2 | A-Z
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Companies Company Name 3M.....................................................................................................33 Aberdeen City Council .....................................................................8 Aberdeenshire Council .....................................................................8 Air Quality Cell (AQC).............................................................51, 76 Airmed 2011.....................................................................................13 Airwave ........................................................................................9, 67 Ambulance Victoria...........................................................12, 59 - 61 Ambulex...........................................................................................15 Angloco ............................................................................................83 Arqiva ...............................................................................................52 AS Training......................................................................................83 AssetCo.............................................................................................83 Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO)...............................14 Atlas Collaborate .............................................................................72 Audi ..................................................................................................14 Augmentura .....................................................................................90 Auto Umbau Limited .....................................................................31 Avon Inflatables ..................................................................83, 86, 95 Avon Fire and Rescue Service .......................................................29 Babcock International ..............................................................51, 70 BAE Systems....................................................................................24 Barnet Marine..................................................................................83 Barnsley Metropolitan Council .....................................................92 Bay Search and Rescue ...................................................................20 Bedford Borough Council ..............................................................46 Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service.......................46 BMW ....................................................................................14, 20, 24 BOC ..................................................................................................21 bott....................................................................................................31 Brake.................................................................................................45 Brent Council ....................................................................................9 Britax Pmg .......................................................................................38 British Association for Women in Policing (BAWP)..................51 British Cave Rescue .......................................................................55 British Columbia Ambulance Service...........................................12 British Red Cross ..................................................................8, 62, 67 British Transport Police .............................................................9, 90 BT ...............................................................................................27, 72 Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service....................................8 Business in the Community.............................................................8 Cabinet Office..............................................................................9, 69 Cabinet Office Civil Contingencies Secretariat ...........................69, 70, 71, 72, 75, 95 Care Quality Commission (CQC) ..................................................16 Central Rescue UK .........................................................................86 Cheshire Constabulary....................................................................31 Chief Fire Officers' Association.........................................52, 70, 81 Chiltern Transport Consortium.....................................................29 Citroen..............................................................................................35 City and Hackney Primary Care Trust .........................................64 City of London Police ..............................................................40, 41 Cleveland Fire Brigade ...................................................................43 Collins Nets .....................................................................................83 Command UK .................................................................................83 Communities and Local Government ..........................................70 Community Resilience ...............................................................8, 56 Concorde Informatics .....................................................................52 Cosalt International ........................................................................51 Cumbrian Emergency Planning Unit...........................................72 Cycle Responder........................................................................40, 41 Dartmoor Rescue Group ................................................................90 Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (Dstl) ......................69 Defra.....................................................................................81, 83, 86 Department for Transport ........................................................13, 31 Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service .............................................79 Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.............................51 Dorset Police....................................................................................43
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Company Name
Draeger.............................................................................................94 DuPont.........................................................................................9, 37 Durham Constabulary ....................................................................91 Durham University.........................................................................69 Durrocomm .....................................................................................94 EADS Defence & Security .............................................................94 East of England Ambulance Service...................................8, 45, 75 Emergency Planning College.........................................................56 Emergency Planning Society .........................................................95 Endura........................................................................................40, 41 Environment Agency......................................................8, 51, 56, 76 EP Barrus .........................................................................................83 Essex Ambulance Motorcycle Club...............................................45 Essex Police......................................................................................24 FAME Commercials .......................................................................35 Fife Fire and Rescue Service..........................................................52 Fire Service College ..................................................................71, 83 Firebuy .......................................................................................18, 31 Firexpress.........................................................................................24 Food Standards Agency............................................................51, 76 Football Safety Officers' Association.............................................54 Ford ............................................................................................14, 35 Forestry Commission......................................................................27 Fuchshuber ........................................................................................9 Future Safety ...................................................................................83 Giant Step Training...........................................................................9 Gloucestershire Constabulary ........................................................52 Goliath Footwear.............................................................................83 Goss Interactive...............................................................................91 Grampian Fire and Rescue Service .................................................8 Grampian Police................................................................................8 Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service ..............................52 Guernsey Fire and Rescue Service ................................................33 HAIX................................................................................................92 Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service .............................................35 Hampshire Police............................................................................24 Health & Safety Executive ...............................................................6 Health and Safety Laboratory..................................................51, 76 Health Protection Agency............................................46, 51, 64, 76 Help for Heroes ...............................................................................51 Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service .......................81 Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.....................................8, 56 Highways Agency..................................................................8, 27, 45 HM Coastguard ...............................................................................85 Holmatro..........................................................................................30 Hong Kong Fire Service Department...........................................51 Howard Leight ................................................................................95 I-Lifeboats UK ................................................................................85 Institute of Conflict Management (ICM) .......................................9 Isle of Man Department of Health................................................45 Job Centre Plus..................................................................................8 Kent Fire and Rescue Service........................................................51 Kent Police Authority.......................................................................6 Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance .....................................13 Kinetic Ambulanz Mobile (KAM) ................................................33 Lancashire Police ............................................................................52 Land Rover ................................................................................20, 86 Lincolnshire Police.........................................................................35 Lion Apparel....................................................................................96 Lion Apparel Asia Pacific ..............................................................51 Lomo Industries..............................................................................83 Lomond Mountain Rescue.............................................................31 London Ambulance Service (LAS) ......9, 12, 40, 41, 43, 51, 56, 64 London Fire Brigade..............................................40, 41, 56, 64, 81 Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service ............................52 Lothian and Borders Police ...........................................................31 Loughborough University..............................................................46
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Company Name
Lowland Rescue ..............................................................................55 Magnum ...........................................................................................95 Marine Simulation LLC.................................................................79 Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) ...................8, 55, 83, 85 Maritime Incident Response Group (MIRG)...............................55 Mercato.............................................................................................91 Mercedes-Benz ................................................................................33 Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.......................................24, 81 Met Office ..................................................................................51, 76 Metropolitan Police ..........................................24, 27, 40, 41, 51, 64 MFC Survival ..................................................................................83 Miller................................................................................................95 Ministry of Defence ..................................................................69, 83 Ministry of Defence Police.............................................................24 Mitsubishi........................................................................................27 Mountain Rescue England & Wales..............................................55 MSB ..................................................................................................75 National Exhibition of Police Fleet Managers (NAPFM) Conference and Exhibition .................................................14, 33 National Grid...................................................................................20 National Police Federation.............................................................14 National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA)......................6, 13, 14, 35, 69, 91 National Resilience Assurance Team ......................................51, 70 NDI Recognition Systems..............................................................90 NHS London...................................................................................64 North West Ambulance Service.......................................................8 North Yorkshire Police...................................................................91 Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service ................................35 Northamptonshire Police ...............................................................51 Northern Diver................................................................................83 Northgate Public Services..............................................................52 Northumbria Police ..................................................................24, 91 Nottinghamshire Police..................................................................88 Nottinghamshire Underwater Search Unit..................................83 OGC Buying Solutions ...................................................................15 Office of Government Commerce (OGC)...............................14, 18 Peli Products....................................................................................94 Pentagon Commercials ..................................................................33 Pick Up Systems..............................................................................37 Pioner Boats.....................................................................................83 Pneupac ............................................................................................95 PocketComms ....................................................................................9 Polar Bears .......................................................................................83 Premier Hazard ...............................................................................38 Premier Hose Technologies............................................................83 PROACT Medical...........................................................................94 Public Health Wales........................................................................51 Public Safety Cycling................................................................40, 41 Pure Hydration................................................................................92 Quantitech .......................................................................................51 Radio Tactics....................................................................................94 RAF SAR..........................................................................................55 Remploy .............................................................................................9 Renault .............................................................................................29 Rescue 3 UK..............................................................................81, 83 REST UK...........................................................................................3 RNLI ....................................................................................27, 55, 81 RoSPA ..............................................................................................83 Royal Marines..................................................................................24 Royal Military Police ........................................................................9 Royal Navy.......................................................................................24 RSG Engineering Ltd.....................................................................37 Safequip............................................................................................83 Scottish Ambulance Service.............................................................8 Scottish Resilience ..........................................................................95 SeaBotix Inc.....................................................................................79
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Seat....................................................................................................14 Sepura...............................................................................................52 Severn Trent Water .........................................................................27 Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service..............................................46 Simunix ............................................................................................91 Skoda ................................................................................................14 Smiths Medical International........................................................95 South Central Ambulance Service.................................................52 South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) ...............6, 8, 45 South Western Ambulance Service ...............................................43 South Yorkshire Police .............................................................88, 91 South Yorkshire Police Authority ...................................................8 Sperian Protection...........................................................................95 Spheros.............................................................................................29 St John Ambulance.............................................................40, 41, 52 Staffordshire Civil Contingencies Unit ........................................33 Staffordshire Police.....................................................................9, 33 Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team (SSART) ........................33 Suffolk County Council....................................................................8 Supply 999........................................................................................83 Surrey Police......................................................................................6 Sussex Police......................................................................................8 Sussex Search and Rescue ..............................................................90 Swedish Response Team.................................................................75 Territorial Army ............................................................................8, 9 The Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy .................................8 The Cabinet Office..........................................................................56 The Department of Health.............................................................16 The Emergency Services Show 2010 ................8, 13, 39, 51, 55, 56 THW.................................................................................................75 Total Worx........................................................................................83 Toyota ...............................................................................................37 Traka .................................................................................................21 Trelleborg .........................................................................................83 Tritech International ......................................................................79 UK FRS Olympic Planning Group...............................................56 UK Medical Response ......................................................................6 Ultra Electronics .............................................................................72 Universal Carbon Fibres ................................................................24 University of Wolverhampton .........................................................9 Vauxhall............................................................................................14 VEEcam............................................................................................90 Versadock .........................................................................................83 Vodafone...........................................................................................27 Volkswagen ................................................................................14, 33 Volvo.................................................................................................14 Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service.........................................52 Warwickshire Police........................................................................52 Webasto ............................................................................................29 West Mercia Police............................................................................9 West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS)....................6, 33, 86 West Midlands Fire Service .....................................................83, 86 West Midlands Police .......................................................6, 9, 83, 88 West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service..............................................8 West Sussex Police ..........................................................................31 WL Gore & Associates .....................................................................9 Worshipful Company of Security Professionals...........................88 XPI Simulation ...............................................................................35 Yamaha Motors UK Ltd.................................................................83 Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) ............................................30
Advertisers Company Name Airwave ......................................................................................10, 11 Amputees in Action........................................................................84 Anderco Safety ................................................................................30 AssetCo ..............................................................................................7 Audi..................................................................................................15 Auto Umbrau...................................................................................53 Avon Inflatables ..............................................................................82 Babcock International ....................................................................32 BMW Authorities ........................................................................IFC BOC..................................................................................................21 bott ...................................................................................................53 British Red Cross............................................................................68 DMS technologies...........................................................................77 Enviro Tech .....................................................................................77
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Company Name
EP Barrus.........................................................................................87 Excelerate Technology Ltd ......................................................48, 49 Falck.................................................................................................78 FAME Commercials Ltd ...............................................................42 Ferno ................................................................................................80 HAIX ...............................................................................................41 Haztec International.......................................................................34 Kussmaul Electronics Co Inc ........................................................47 Land Rover......................................................................................25 Lifeskills Medical ...........................................................................89 Lion Apparel ...................................................................................68 Lloyds ..............................................................................................89 Lyon Equipment Limited........................................................63, 65 Mitsubishi........................................................................................28
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Company Name
PageOne ...........................................................................................66 Peli Products (UK) Ltd..................................................................73 Peugeot...........................................................................................4, 5 Premier Hazard ....................................................................OFC, 50 Primetech.........................................................................................26 PROACT Medical...........................................................................84 Quantitech .......................................................................................77 Red Box Recorders Limited ............................................................7 Rigiflex.............................................................................................82 RSG Engineering Limited.............................................................53 SEAT................................................................................................17 Skoda................................................................................................18 Smiths Medical ...............................................................................74 SP Services ............................................................................OBC, 87
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Page No
Stirling EVP ....................................................................................47 Strongs Plastic Products ................................................................36 Thomas Jacks ..................................................................................42 TRAKA ............................................................................................44 Ultra Electronics.............................................................................73 University of Leicester...................................................................74 Vehicle Livery Solutions................................................................47 VW Cars...........................................................................................16 VW Commercial..............................................................................19 W H Bence ................................................................................22, 23 W L Gore & Associates..................................................................39 WILL-BURT ..................................................................................44 Woodway Engineering ...................................................................32
FIRST WORDS | 3
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Volume No: 11 Date:
Issue No: 03 August 2010
Editor: David J. Holden MEng(Hons) Twitter: @999editor davidholden@mmcpublications.co.uk Editorial Assistant: Alice Burton aliceburton@mmcpublications.co.uk Advertisement Manager: David Brown davidbrown@mmcpublications.co.uk Advertisement Sales: Carol Fox carolfox@mmcpublications.co.uk Circulation & Subscription Manager: Anne Ahier anne@mmcpublications.co.uk
IT/www Contact: Ceinwen Clarke
Will cutbacks mean cutting out the voluntary sector? When REST UK (Response Emergency Stress Team) was formed in 2002 as a voluntary organisation, it was done so in response to working with the emergency services of New York City in the wake of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center on 11 September 2001. After that terrible attack on the people of New York, the city opened its doors to volunteers in a desperate need for more help. Their emergency services simply could not cope. They needed volunteers to help support rescue workers during their long working shifts at Ground Zero and Staten Island.
ceinwen@mmcpublications.co.uk
Managing Director: David Brown Directors: John Clarke David Holden Colin Robinson Ceinwen Clarke (Sec.)
Published by
Emergency Services (MMC) Ltd a division of Modern Media Communications Ltd Gresham House 54 High Street Shoreham by Sea West Sussex BN43 5DB United Kingdom Tel: +44(0)1273 453033 Fax: +44(0)1273 453085 e-mail: info@mmcpublications.co.uk www: www.emergencyservicestimes.com Distribution: EMERGENCY SERVICES TIMES is free of charge to officers and managers who are buyers or specifiers actively involved in the procurement of equipment or services within the emergency response industry and based in the UK and Irish Republic. All other categories of reader are invited to subscribe at £120.00 to UK addresses and £155.00 overseas. Single copy price £20.00 including post and packing. The articles within Emergency Services Times are copyright and are the property of the publisher Emergency Services (MMC) Ltd and cannot be reproduced in any media form without permission of the publisher. Application should be made in writing. Reprints of articles and advertisements are available, allow 28 days for delivery. PDF pages are available by email at £20.00 (+VAT) per page (€32.50, $33). Prices on application to the publisher. A reader enquiry service is available for readers to indirectly contact companies for further details on products and services advertised in this issue as well as editorial items mentioned. A postcard is inserted in this issue for returning to us or you may fax your enquiries with the numbers and your full address, telephone, fax on +44(0)1273 453085 Studio work by Keystrokes, Shoreham by Sea, West Sussex Tel: 01273 453300 keystrokes@btconnect.com
“Each NGO has its own unique selling point, which has been vital in the support of our UK emergency services, especially when these services are overstretched…” REST UK, which is also a registered charity, is a very small organisation and is classified as a Non Government Organisation (NGO). It has always benefited from a huge support from the UK fire and rescue service, helping to raise awareness of our existence, a very difficult thing for us to achieve with no funding! REST UK has been at annual events and exercises for the UK search and rescue teams. There was even talk of REST UK accompanying the UK FRS search and rescue teams (now known as the UK International Search and Rescue team) overseas. However, recently, there has been much awareness among the voluntary sector that the UK fire and rescue service seems to have turned its back on many NGOs. Much larger organisations than us, such as BIRD and International Rescue, have had their funding cut by the Government these past two years, which has meant they have had to dip into hard earned funds to attend overseas disasters, and were almost finished as a charity. It also means their valuable experience of search and rescue was not available for the last earthquake in Haiti. Questions have even been raised in Parliament, but no one seems to be listening, let alone answer the many questions NGOs are asking.
I know from speaking to various groups that NGOs are feeling incredibly let down. No one from the UK FRS seems to want to communicate with us. Some NGOs who were in a group are now split up and no longer feel united in the work they do. NGOs are non-profit making. The Government does not pay us, but we do need to cover costs. But being paid is not the reason we do our work. We are volunteers. Each NGO has its own unique selling point, which has been vital in the support of our UK emergency services, especially when these services are overstretched as seen during the floods, Buncefield and Atherstone. At the factory fire in Warwickshire, REST UK was seen as an important part of the welfare of the crews working on site. It was the first national deployment of 10 USAR teams, more than half of the whole of the UK’s teams. Conditions were extreme, crews worked around the clock over three days with hardly any sleep in extremely arduous conditions. REST UK was there from the early stages offering chair massages. I believe the fire and rescue service owes a duty of care to their personnel, and I believe they would wish to see this carried out. But by disregarding voluntary help, they are denying their workforce the vital support they need. Having voluntary help from NGOs can make savings for the emergency services, and this is not just about money. International Rescue and BIRD can help save lives. Accidents and stress related health issues could be prevented when rescuers, pushed to their limit at a major incident, can access respite care by having chair massages from REST UK during their shift work. I believe NGOs have a vital role to play for all our UK emergency services. In this current climate of cutbacks is it really wise to cut out the voluntary sector? Kim Wooldridge, MD, REST UK
Emergency Services Times August 2010
6 | NEWS
In brief . . . West Midlands Police has a new non-emergency phone number – 0345 113 5000. The new cheap-rate number now benefits mobile phone users, as service providers will charge them nothing or a few pence a minute, rather than a variable rate dictated. Some mobile providers used to charge up to 40 pence a minute to call the 0845 number. Chief Constable Chris Sims said, “It was totally unfair that some members of the public had to pay a premium rate for their call. This was particularly so when one considers they may have been trying to tell us about a crime or pass on important information to officers. We are keen to ensure that people are not put off calling us with their concerns, complaints or reports of crime because of the cost.” www.west-midlands.police.uk
As part of money saving plans for police forces in the south east, Surrey Police has unveiled its new uniforms, which are a more cost-effective solution, but also more comfortable and practical for the wearer. Cargo trousers and modern black ‘wicking’ shirts have replaced the old uniform of black trousers and white shirts, with a blue version for PCSOs and PSOs. The new uniforms cost an additional £7400 but will save the force £28 per officer. www.surrey.police.uk
West Midlands Ambulance Service has been named Top Ambulance Trust at this year’s Healthcare 100 Awards, which is sponsored by the Health Service Journal and Nursing Times. The results are based on a staff survey and evidence submitted by the trust. West Midlands Ambulance Service’s staff said the Trust had ‘moved on considerably’ and they were happy with the support they had received when undertaking higher education courses. Chief Executive Anthony Marsh said, “This award really does recognise the achievements of staff and how they are helping the trust to move forward. Thank you to everyone for all they do for the patients.” www.wmas.nhs.uk
UK Medical Response (UKMR), one of Britain’s largest private ambulance providers, has moved to a dedicated new 5850 square foot Midlands base in Redditch. The new base allows most of its 30 fully equipped emergency response vehicles to be kept under cover, and the central location offers quick access to all the major roads servicing the Midlands and beyond. An onsite training facility will also be established using the additional space. www.ukmr.com
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HART launched in the South East The new Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) at South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) has begun responding to calls following its official launch in July. SECAmb ‘s HART team is made up of around 40 clinicians, all of whom have received 40 weeks’ training, including using specialist breathing apparatus and chemical suits. They will continue to receive further training in water safety and will form the service’s maritime incident response team. The HART team is based in Ashford, Kent, but can respond to all incidents in Kent, Sussex and Surrey and, if necessary, will support other ambulance services beyond the SECAmb boundary.
Matthew England, HART Manager, said, “SECAmb’s HART will significantly enhance the service the trust can provide at major incidents or at emergencies with hazardous environments. The HART have the opportunity to give clinical care at a much earlier stage than has been previously possible.” www.secamb.nhs.uk
Radical reforms for police announced The Government has announced radical new changes for the police service. Policing in the 21st Century: Reconnecting Police and the People aims to reinforce the links between the police and the public, tackle organised crime and increase border security and save the taxpayer money by eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy. Key elements of the strategy include: the election of Police and Crime Commissioners in May 2012; the introduction of a new National Crime Agency; greater collaboration between police forces; phasing out the National Policing Improvement Agency; cutting bureaucracy, removing restrictive health and safety procedures and freeing up officers’ time; and encouraging members of the public to help cut crime with volunteer groups. Prime Minister David Cameron said, “It is vital police officers are free to tackle the crime and antisocial behaviour that matters to most people, not tied down with bureaucracy and form-filling. By replacing invisible police authorities with directly elected Police and Crime Commissioners, we can forge a direct link between the police and the public, ensuring that the public have a voice in setting police priorities and have the power to hold the police to account for keeping our streets safe and secure.” The radical new approach will ensure everyone has a say in how their area is policed, and that everyone plays their part in cutting crime within Big Society. More opportunities will be available for residents to volunteer with the police service, or join Neighbourhood Watch schemes. The Government will also be working with the police service and the Health and Safety Executive to scrutinise procedures that act as a barrier to intervening and
Government ends FRS regionalisation Action that will stop the forced regionalisation of fire and rescue services and hand more control back to local services was announced by Fire Minister Bob Neill on 28 July as part of the Government’s promise to abolish regional government and give stronger powers and responsibilities to communities. The Minister announced that services no longer have to work through Regional Management Boards, ending one of the last layers of regional bureaucracy. This is the latest step in abolishing regional government and follows recently announced plans to scrap Regional Development Agencies and Regional Assemblies. The Government has also announced it is minded to abolish the nine Government Offices for the Regions.
Prime Minister David Cameron.
recognising those officers who put themselves in harm’s way. Derek Webley, Chair of West Midlands Police Authority, said, “The Government appears to be placing significant duties and responsibilities on the Police and Crime Commissioner without the necessary powers or assistance to ensure that they can meet them. We will need to be reassured that the Commissioner can represent the 2.6 million people of the West Midlands who can live in our seven local authority areas, which cover our 248 neighbourhood policing areas. We therefore hope that the Government will listen and take account of the comments that are made.” Ann Barnes, Chair of the Kent Police Authority, gave her personal view, saying, “I’m also absolutely convinced that the Government is moving with indecent haste on these initiatives. I admire the Government’s resolve and sense of purpose but there are a whole range of alternative models and reforms that, at the very least, ought to be considered and debated.” Before the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill is published in autumn, the Government is looking for the opinions of the public and professionals in the criminal justice system about the reform plans. The consultation will run until 20 September. www.homeoffice.gov.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Fire Minister Bob Neill.
Central government is stepping aside so fire authorities can decide what their priorities should be and what is in the best interests of the communities they serve. There will be an immediate shift in approach in a number of areas where the service is currently ‘directed’ unnecessarily by Government. Fire chiefs were told that Government will no longer needlessly intervene where the National Framework is not strictly adhered to. Issues including equality and diversity and workforce development will now also be left to local decisions. Mr Neill said, “We have fantastic fire and rescue services in this country and it’s time we stopped tying them up in red tape and give them more freedom to serve their communities. We rely on our firefighters to keep us safe not waste resources on bureaucracy. “Fire and rescue services are mature enough and professional enough to make their own decisions and to work together to make continuous improvements. I know the sector is keen to step up and show that they are more than capable of supporting their own.” www.communities.gov.uk
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Emergency Services Times August 2010
|7
8 | NEWS
In brief . . .
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Paramedics have tea with The Queen Green energy
A new network has been launched to offer support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people (LGBT) in the public sector. Grampian Fire and Rescue Service, in collaboration with Grampian Police, Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeen City Council, Scottish Ambulance Service and Job Centre Plus, launched the Grampian Employees Network to enable LGBT staff to meet in confidence and share experiences. It is hoped that over time it will have a positive impact on LGBT staff and will help them with confidence in the workplace. www.gay.police.uk
Kent-based not for profit organisation Community Resilience, official sponsor of The Emergency Services Show 2010, is the newest member of Business in the Community (BITC), a membership organisation which promotes corporate responsibility and encourages companies to improve their impact on society and the environment. Community Resilience is a unique organisation, which prearranges exclusive access to commercial warehouses, premises and private sector resources for more than 60 public sector organisations in an emergency. Andy Finch, BTIC South Regional Director, said, “Corporate responsibility is moving up in the agenda for companies. Community Resilience is providing a fantastic service to its client companies and to communities in time of need.” Community Resilience plans to run part one of a two-part forthcoming event programme, ‘Temporary Mortuaries: the practical aspects’ at The Emergency Services Show 2010, which takes place at Stoneleigh Park in November. More on page 56. www.communityresilience.cc www.btic.org.uk
Category 1 responders gathered in Crawley recently for Operation Martlet, an exercise designed to improve relations with each other, and teach Incident Liaison Officers (ILOs) and students more about their roles. West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Sussex Police, South East Coast Ambulance, Maritime and Coastguard Agency, British Red Cross, Environment Agency, South East Coast Ambulance Service’s new Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), Highways Agency and Territorial Army REME unit all attended the event. www.crawley.gov.uk
Paramedics Ralph Palmer (left) and Stephen Dugdale, with wives Trish (left) and Susan.
Two paramedics from North West Ambulance Service attended The Queen’s Royal Garden Party on 20 July. Ralph Palmer, from Cockermouth, and
Stephen Dugdale from Blackpool, were invited after impressing bosses with outstanding contributions to the community. Ralph, who said he was ‘surprised but deeply honoured’ to be invited, played a key role in the ambulance service’s response during the Cumbria floods in November 2009. He remained on duty throughout the first day and into the night, sleeping on the floor of Cockermouth Fire Station in case colleagues needed him. He worked closely with the other emergency services to ensure safe rescue of those trapped in their homes. Steve received his invite for his work educating over 50,000 children in Lancashire about the dangers of knife crime. He was so dedicated in getting this important message across that he made no requests for overtime. www.nwas.nhs.uk
Multi-agency exercise assists collaboration in tunnel rescue
awards looking for entries The Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy, the UK’s leading green energy awards, is looking for entries for 2011 from public sector organisations that are doing their bit to improve energy efficiency, reduce their carbon footprint or increase their use of renewable energy sources. The winners are awarded cash prizes of up to £20,000, as well as a benefits package and support including a broadcast-quality short film about their work and introductions to key policy-makers and funders. At the 2010 ceremony, Suffolk County Council won an award for helping local schools switch their oil-fired boilers to a greener, wood-fired alternative and boosting Suffolk’s supply chain for biomass fuel through sustainable forestry. The initiative cut the schools’ fuel bills by up to 25%. Sir David Attenborough, who presented this year’s awards, said, “The award-winners deserve to be greatly celebrated for their important role in tackling both climate change and poverty.” The closing date for entries is 26 October 2010, and the awards ceremony will take place in London in June 2011. www.ashdenawards.org/apply
£125m of police cuts on the way
Firefighters from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service Trust recently took part in a multi-agency training exercise, which simulated rescuing ‘casualties’ from a network of tunnels. The simulation was held at a potholing facility at Phasels Wood Scout Camp in Hertfordshire, and involved children and an adult going missing near some chalk mines. Four fire crews, two from Watford and two from Hemel Hempstead, the HART paramedics and the USAR team were called to the scene to find the missing people, and administer any necessary medical care, while the USAR teams provid-
ed ventilation. A video of the exercise has been uploaded onto Hertfordshire County Council’s website. HART Training Manager Lewis Andrews said, “The ethos of HART was demonstrated with an excellent working relationship between Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and the USAR team of Buckinghamshire. The HART worked with all personnel on scene to ensure the patients received the best clinical practice working in a complex environment.” Station Commander John Print, who was in charge of the exercise, said, “The exercise enabled us to practise working in a confined space alongside our colleagues in other emergency services, allowing us to learn about the capabilities and limitations of each organisation.”
South Yorkshire Police Authority has voiced the thoughts of most police authorities, expressing concern at the Government’s decision to make £125m of cuts to police forces throughout the country. South Yorkshire’s Home Office grant will be reduced from £110.2m to £107.4m, and its capital grant will be reduced from £3.3m to £3.1 in this financial year. Bill Wilkinson, Chief Executive of South Yorkshire Police Authority, said, “The authority is concerned about the unprecedented inyear reduction in Government grants. It is hoped we will be able to avoid cuts in services during the coming year, because the authority and Chief Constable are already making plans in readiness for the bigger cuts, which are expected in 2011. Whichever way you look at it there is £3m the authority had assumed was available which now represents a gap in our financial plans for the next four years.”
http://tinyurl.com/hertsdirect
www.southyorks.police.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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Staffs Police help train student police officers
Health Minister Chooses Well in visiting London Ambulance HQ
Students taking the Policing degree at The University of Wolverhampton now have the opportunity to gain work experience as a Special Constable with Staffordshire Police. A memorandum of understanding was recently signed between Michael Cunningham, Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police, and Professor Ian Oakes, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise at the university. Staffordshire Police are the latest force to enter into a partnership with the university, following in the footsteps of West Midlands Police, West Mercia Police, British Transport Police and the Royal Military Police. From September, the university will also offer a BSc (Hons) Fire and Rescue, in partnership with West Midlands Fire Service. www.wlv.ac.uk/policing
Olympic radio service reaches halfway mark
Airwave, which has been busy designing a private mobile radio service especially for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, has reached the halfway milestone towards completion of the service. The service, known as Apollo, will guarantee all 12,500 organisers can maintain secure coverage across all venues. With half of the sites now complete, Airwave now needs to finalise building and testing of Apollo before it is put through its paces at various test events in 2011. Richard Bobbett, Chief Executive of Airwave, said, “The scale of the task is significant. We have to make sure the organisations which rely on Airwave every day – the police, fire and ambulance services – can continue their operations throughout exceptional circumstances in London and throughout the UK for the duration of the Games.” www.airwavesolutions.co.uk
In brief . . . The DuPont Nomex® Innovation Awards, which celebrate excellence and design innovation incorporating Nomex®, took place on 15 June at the Eurosatory show in Paris. The entrants must be garment manufacturers and the products must be sold in Europe. The award winners were: Advanced Integration category – WL Gore, Nomex® based Air Crew Concept; Protection and Functionality category – Remploy Swift Responder 3 (SR3) with Nomex® and carbon/membrane based CBRN protective garment; Design and Ergonomics category – Fuchshuber Ultra light Nomex® Comfort Underwear. www.dupont.com
Clinical Advisor Rebecca Bedson talks to Simon Burns MP in the LAS’s Urgent Operations Centre.
Simon Burns MP, the new Minister of State for Health, paid a visit to London Ambulance Service (LAS) to get an insight into their day-to-day work. Mr Burns met with an ambulance crew and listened in on 999 calls in the control room. Mr Burns said, “I was interested to hear about the work the service is doing to not only manage the increase in demand it has seen year on year, but also the innovative steps it is taking to improve the health outcomes of its patients.” Medical Director of London Ambulance Service, Fionna Moore, said, “We were delighted to have the min-
ister visit so we could update him on our future plans. We discussed significant improvements we have made with the care we provide for stroke, cardiac and trauma patients.” Another important issue to be addressed was the NHS Choose Well campaign, which aims to ensure patients take the appropriate steps when ill or injured – which may not involve calling 999 for an ambulance. London Ambulance Service is supporting this by passing an increased number of calls to other organisations such as NHS Direct when the patient has a less serious condition. www.london-ambulance.nhs.uk
Simple communication device bridges language barriers The PocketComms device, developed by West Midlands Police in conjunction with Coventry-based PocketComms to help police officers communicate more effectively with their non-English speaking or hard of hearing residents, is being bought and trialled by many forces around the country. With over 40 different languages spoken in the West Midlands region, this single device has saved the force money on using interpreters to communicate with these members of the communities. The device is small and lightweight and can be clipped to officers’ uniforms. The device works by displaying a series of graphics to members of the public, enabling them to indi-
cate what has happened to them and what help they require. As well as being distributed to front line staff across the West Midlands, nine other police forces have snapped up the device, including the UK Border Agency. It is also being trialled by 15 other forces, including ones in Hong Kong, Holland and Germany. West Midlands Police diversity adviser Maria Watson said, “PocketComms offers timely intervention and enables officers to quickly identify which language is being spoken, thus reducing confusion and costs in providing translation services. We have had an overwhelmingly positive response from West Midlands’ officers already.” www.west-midlands.pnn.police.uk www.pocketcomms.co.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Airwave is now working with over 130 local authorities. Brent Council is one authority to take advantage of its original investment in Airwave, having delegated management of incidents to ‘on the ground’ personnel who use the Airwave service to communicate with police. Rob Walley, Chairman of the Multi Agency Airwave User Group and former Civil Protection Manager at Brent Council, said, “With Airwave we gained near-instant communication and could involve lots of colleagues and other agencies. Interoperability with the police was much easier.” www.airwavesolutions.co.uk
London Ambulance Service is the first ambulance trust in the country to receive the prestigious Cabinet Office Customer Service Excellence award, for the quality with which its 999 calls are handled. The service was praised for its dedication towards giving callers advice before ambulance staff arrive on the scene, creation of instructions on how to respond to and treat individuals with special medical needs, and their involvement in the NHS Making Experiences Count initiative, which helps call handlers to resolve and learn from customer complaints. www.london-ambulance.nhs.uk
Giant Step Training, the leading provider of conflict management and physical skills training, has become the first trainer in Scotland qualified to deliver a new standard for Physical Intervention Training as defined by the Institute of Conflict Management. Professionals at the company, who have worked at the highest levels training police, fire and security personnel, train their clients about the best techniques for diffusing the threat of violence while keeping within the boundaries of the law. www.giantsteptraining.com www.conflictmanagement.org/icm
10 | ADVERTORIAL
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Delivering control rooms for the fire and rescue service What can the fire and rescue services do to update aging control room equipment? Control rooms are vital to the effective operations of the fire and rescue services. Those in command rely on the control room to provide them with a view of where their resources are deployed and provide them with the tools needed to manage mobilisation and support from start to finish. Today, however, the fire and rescue services are facing unprecedented challenges. For many, the existing control room infrastructure passed the end of its natural life some years ago. If the fire and rescue service is to continue to fulfil its role safely, effectively and efficiently then a refresh of existing control room equipment is vital. As with other public services however the fire and rescue service has to contend with low public spending and one of the most austere budgets in living memory. The service is being asked to do more with less; to reduce budgets while at the same time continuing to innovate. Additionally, the fire and rescue service has to comply with pressure from the Government to achieve a greater level of local collaboration in order to find the requisite efficiencies and justify further funding. It is intended that the fire and rescue services will move away from being influenced by regional or central government and have a greater focus on local decisions that will impact on local communities. Together these represent a unique set of challenges that will impact on the technology decisions made by the fire and rescue service. However, as Airwave has discovered through its experience in public safety sector, these challenges can all be met. Drawing on lessons from the rollout to the ambulance trusts in England as well as from the fire and rescue services in Scotland we can see clearly how the English fire and rescue services can evolve their control room functionality to a collaborative model that will drive down costs while at the same time modernising mobilisation and incident management, helping fire officers to react faster and help save lives. It is this latter point that is perhaps the most important. The fire and rescue services are not just looking to update their technology; they are looking for a control room solution that will transform the way they work. The fire and rescue services require control room solutions that will automate many of the processes involved in mobilisation and provide officers responding to incidents with all the information they need to be effective. A high level of integration and a strong mobile data element to the solution is therefore required. Broadly speaking, there are four approaches that the fire and rescue services can use to update their control room operations while ensuring reductions in capital outlay: Data Access This approach allows the fire and rescue services to make the most of their existing control room assets as well as the Airwave network. In short, it
adds a data capability to the existing voice capability provided on the Airwave network. This is something of a stop-gap solution that allows the fire and rescue services to modernise their control rooms at low cost while they wait for the correct time to invest in a longer-term system. It provides the fire and rescue services with a dedicated mobile data service that allows them to communicate with appliances over Short Data Service (SDS), a text data channel. This is a much more efficient means of mobilisation as more detailed data can be provided than over voice and there is no risk of personnel responding mishearing the information they are receiving. The increased use of SDS has the additional benefit of reducing demand on the voice network, freeing capacity on this important resource for when it is really needed.
Locally Shared Data Access This solution uses local collaboration to deliver greater efficiency and significant capital savings. It works by aggregating the required number of customers’ SDS data traffic at Airwave’s network switch-sites. This is in effect an SDS service that can be shared on a local basis meaning that each fire and rescue service does not need to invest in its own SDS gateway. Locally Shared Data Access allows the fire and rescue services to mobilise
appliances and other vehicles over the Airwave network, including Automatic Vehicle or Person Location Services. To ensure that capacity requirements are guaranteed, Mobile Data Access is implemented with a maximum of five fire and rescue services sharing each gateway. This ensures that cost savings can be enabled without sacrificing quality.
Control Room Replacement Solution Before long however, a complete refresh of control room equipment may be necessary as those currently in use reach the end of their safe operating life. One approach is to deploy a standard control room solution based on dedicated fixed-line connections to the Airwave network. This would deliver full integration of command and control functions supplied over a unified interface for voice and data traffic over the Airwave network including voice and voice control services, Computer Aided
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Dispatch Interface (CADI), a Private Telephone Network (PTN) gateway and SDS bearer data services. Shared Infrastructure Control Room Another way for the fire and rescue services to share control room resources is to set up centrally hosted infrastructures. Two geographically separated centres, each hosting a resilient ICCS solution, would simultaneously support multiple fire and rescue services, with each brigade connecting through a secure and resilient Wide Area Network from their operator’s own locations. This option provides a cost-effective solution while allowing the fire and rescue services to maintain local autonomy by means of secure remote access for operators. Real world deployments Airwave already has experience of deploying control room integration to the ambulance trusts in England. This experience has clearly demonstrated the benefits that can be achieved by migrating to a modern control room. Airwave has fully integrated its network with the ambulance trusts’ regional control room ICCS, radio and data channels as well as to PABX phone systems. Each trust has two principal core equipment centres connected to geographically dispersed sites via a Wide Area Network. Each
centre is fully resilient and the control rooms operate to strict Service Level Agreements. The benefit of this arrangement is that the Department of Health only needs to deal with one supplier. If there are any issues with the control room or network they can turn to Airwave to solve them. By only needing to negotiate with one supplier, moreover, the trusts can enjoy cost savings
from management efficiencies. The ambulance trusts further benefit through the economies of scale presented by sharing control room infrastructure on a local basis. Airwave also has existing experience of delivering control room integration to the fire and rescue services. In 2009 the Scottish fire and rescue services became the first to fully integrate the Airwave network with their control rooms. The rollout saw the Airwave network integrated with existing and upgraded command and control communications systems, allowing the fire and rescue services to maximise the use of existing equipment while modernising their approach to incident management. The rollout included the deployment of mobile data terminals, at the height of which, one station, two appliances and two officer cars were being provisioned each day providing the new communications system to all fire appliances and vehicles in use in Scotland. This enabled the mobilisation of appliances by data, a much more efficient method of communication, providing appliances in the field with the level of data that could previously only be received at the station. As the devices are two-way, Scottish fire control rooms now have greater visibility of the location of appliances and can deploy them based on how long it will take to attend the emergency rather than on proximity alone. Both the deployment to the Scottish fire and rescue services and the English ambulance trusts were built on Airwave’s understanding of the technology and the requirements of its customers. Airwave worked hand-in-hand with its customers’ ICT teams to deliver integration with useful legacy systems while providing a communications hub to generate efficiencies and lower costs well into the future. In both cases the results have been impressive in providing useful insight into how the fire and rescue services in England could deploy similar solutions that will modernise their command and control communications in times of tightening budgets. www.airwavesolutions.co.uk Author: Mark Pearson, Client Director, Fire and Rescue Services at Airwave.
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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LAS prepares for 2012 Games with dedicated conference The London Ambulance Service (LAS) welcomed guest speakers from Vancouver and Melbourne to its first national 2012 Games conference. More than 100 people attended the event held near the service’s Waterloo Headquarters in May to hear an update on its Olympic and Paralympic Games planning and listen to advice from those who led on preparations for similar events for ambulance services. Delegates heard from representatives from the British Columbia Ambulance Service and Ambulance Victoria, who shared their experiences of planning for Olympics and Commonwealth Games.
service ‘strengthens existing policies, procedures and plans and doesn’t create new ones just for the Games’, as well as ‘utilising existing experts in the organisation as well as mentoring new ones’. Bob also commented positively on the level of engagement from other ambulance services in the UK and the work they were doing together as part of the preparations. He said, “The Olympic and Paralympic emergency medical service is the most complex ‘peace time’ medical operation in the world. Emergency service planners are compelled to succeed despite incredible risks, immovable deadlines, changing world threats and limited resources. “The Olympic and Paralympic Games appear to take forever to come and then will seem to have gone in the blink of an eye.” Bob spoke about the Vancouver Games being a mixture of ‘highs and lows’ – one of the lows in Vancouver being the tragic death of luge competitor, Nodar Kumaritashvili, who left the track at high speed and died despite extensive attempts to resuscitate him.
London Ambulance Service’s Head of Olympic Planning Peter Thorpe addresses delegates.
LAS’s Head of Olympic Planning Peter Thorpe spoke about the organisation’s plans, the challenges faced and the resources that will be needed in order to make sure there is sufficient ambulance cover for the Games period. He also emphasised the importance of ensuring a good level of ambulance cover for the rest of London. He said, “It’s important to learn from services who have run similar events and share information and this conference was a great opportunity to do this. “In London, we are now moving away from the planning phase and into the delivery phase. Our staff are used to providing medical care for large public events such as the London Marathon and New Year’s Eve – just not over such a long period of time. From our point of view, it’s not just about operational staff – we must not forget support staff because many know the service inside out and their knowledge will be vital.” Winter Olympics Bob Alexander, Emergency Medical Service Coordinator for the British Columbia Ambulance Service, gave an insight into the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. He praised the London Ambulance Service’s preparations so far and emphasised the importance of early planning. He recommended that the
Bob Alexander, Emergency Medical Service Coordinator for the British Columbia Ambulance Service, who spoke about the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Bob added, “The 2012 London Games is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity when staff will make new acquaintances and renew old ones. The London Ambulance Service will ultimately conclude its work feeling proud of the organisation and staff, knowing that everyone did the best they could do.” Commonwealth of experience Paul Holman, Operations Manager for the Specialist Emergency Response Department for Ambulance Victoria talked about the lessons
Paul Holman, Operations Manager for the Specialist Emergency Response Department for Ambulance Victoria.
learned following the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games. He spoke about the importance of recognising the local knowledge and experience staff has, as well as an engaged workforce. Paul told delegates that the mix of resources used during the Games in Melbourne was a success – this included foot patrols, bicycles, ambulances, a mobile intensive care unit, first aid posts and a welfare shelter. The impression left by the two main speakers was consistent with that made by General Director Zhang of the Beijing Emergency Medical Centre, following the 2008 Beijing Summer Games, that ‘The Olympics is not just another event, but is significantly different’. Other guest speakers included NHS London’s 2012 Programme Director Hilary Ross and Dr David Zideman, clinical lead for the Emergency Medical Care Medical Services of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Alan Taylor, a Practice Learning Manager for LAS and Martin Duff, a Special Registrar, spoke about the scope of skills needed by staff to treat patients, including those with disabilities and the work that is ongoing to improve this area. With the 2012 Games now less than two years away, the service’s operational plans are progressing at a fast pace. Peter Thorpe added, “We do still face challenges ahead but we are determined to make it work well and for staff to enjoy the Olympic experience.” www.londonambulance.nhs.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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Airmed 2011 moves closer Registration is now open for the next Airmed Congress in 2011.
Road Safety Week 2010 The theme of this year’s Road Safety Week is ‘Kids Say Slow Down’. This partnership event, organised by Brake, with the support of the Department for Transport, courier company FedEx, and QBE insurance, is about encouraging local awarenessraising community events to stop road casualties. Road safety professionals in local authorities can help in the week in a number of simple ways, ranging from issuing a press release about the dangers of speed to hosting your own awarenessraising event or sponsoring a Road Safety Week banner, depending on available resources. Go to the Road Safety Week website (www.roadsafetyweek.org) and click on the ‘Professionals’ button for more information. To discuss a local authority-led initiative in Road Safety Week and for all media queries, call Caroline Perry at Brake on Tel: 01484 559909 or e-mail: cperry@brake.org.uk. www.roadsafetyweek.org
The international aero medical conference takes place from 24-27 May 2011 and is being hosted in Brighton on the south coast of England – the first time the event has taken place in the UK. Delegates from the international medical and aviation world are expected to attend the conference to hear experts speak on a broad range of topics and attend workshops in covering clinical, management and operational issues.
The conference sessions will deal with issues ranging from trauma and airway management to clinical governance and medical emergencies. Renowned international speakers will present up to date evidence-based sessions and future innovation in the clinical world. Management sessions will cover tendering; managing change; outsourcing and management strategies. The operational part of the programme will look at both helicopter and fixedwing operations and an aviation exhibition will be
held at nearby Shoreham airport on the final day. The committee has set the basis of the scientific programme, but a full version and the speakers will be announced nearer the date. Clinicians, pilots, managers and other individuals involved in the aviation, HEMS and air ambulance world are invited to submit either oral or poster presentations in one of six categories: Pre-hospital medicine, Flight safety, Maintenance, Management, Training and Simulation and Medical or Technical Research. A panel of experts will review submissions and successful authors will have the opportunity to showcase their submissions at Airmed 2011 – visit the website for further information. John Tickner, Chef Executive of the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance, said, “It is a great honour to be able to host the first ever Airmed Congress held in the UK and we feel that Brighton is an ideal location for such an event. The congress is now less than a year away, a great deal of planning has taken place and we are confidant that this will be an exciting and successful conference.” www.airmed2011.com
Promoting public sector partnerships The National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA) is bringing police, emergency services and other public sector organisations together in a unique leadership programme to enhance partnership working. The Leading Powerful Partnerships (Independent Command Programme) brings together senior leaders from across the public sector. Designed with the current tight financial climate in mind, the programme challenges managers to try different approaches to common issues and reinvigorate their creative thinking. The five-day programme is designed to encourage police and public sector leaders to work jointly to reduce crime and improve community safety. The programme gives delegates a unique opportunity to share ideas and experiences with peers, better understand common challenges, pressures and opportunities and identify costeffective solutions and best practice. The programme prepares delegates to embrace inevitable changes ahead for the public sector and
highlights the strengths great leaders need to develop powerful partnerships. These include the ability to think broadly, negotiation and influencing, financial and business acumen and political awareness. In addition, delegates learn more about effective partnership working and dealing with change and uncertainty. The programme has already proved extremely useful to delegates and their organisations and it promises to be increasingly crucial as partnership working becomes more important in the challenging years ahead. Future programmes will be held on the following dates at various NPIA sites: • 13-17 September 2010 – Ryton, Coventry • 1-5 November 2010 – Bramshill, Hampshire • 13-17 December 2010 – Ryton, Coventry • 21-25 February 2011 – Bramshill, Hampshire For further information or to book a place, e-mail: leadershipbramshill@npia.pnn.police.uk or Tel: 01256 602300 www.npia.police.uk
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Events Diary 2010 NAPFM 2010 7-8 September Exec Peterborough www.napfmevent.org.uk Learning from Each Other: Civilian and Military Emergency Care 13-15 September International Convention Centre, Birmingham http://tinyurl.com/38hkdzn Police National First Aid Challenge Dorset Police 25-26 September UK Rescue Challenge 30 September – 2 October Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service http://tinyurl.com/ukrescue Beyond 2010 The International Convention Centre, Birmingham 20-21 October 2010 www.beyond-2010.com Firex North 27-28 October 2010 Manchester Central www.firexroadshows.co.uk Scottish Fire Conference 2010 9-10 November Crieff Hydro, Perthshire 4th National Fire and Rescue Service Trauma Conference 12-13 November The West Midlands Fire Service Academy http://tinyurl.com/traumaconf Emergency Services Show 2010 Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire 24-25 November 2010 www.ess2010.com Modernising Policing The Barbican, London 7 December 2010 http://tinyurl.com/modpolicing
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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NAPFM 2010: embracing a collaborative approach to police fleet management The 37th National Association of Police Fleet Managers (NAPFM) Conference and Exhibition will this year take place from 7-8 September at a new venue, the Exec Peterborough exhibition centre. This year’s event, which carries the theme ‘Supporting the services’, will bring together over 150 exhibiting companies showing a wide range of police, ambulance and paramedic vehicles. Also on display will be the latest in specialist vehicle technology, including mobile data, ANPR, lightbars, sirens and vehicle telematics technology. The NAPFM Conference and Exhibition is widely acknowledged as one of the best emergency service transport events in Europe, attracting delegates from around the world. The NAPFM membership, working with the National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA), Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), and the Office of Government Commerce (OGC), has in recent years been extremely proactive in realising the many benefits of a collaborative approach to police fleet management, in particular within the current financial climate whereby it could assist in driving down fleet costs. At this year’s event there will be the usual wide range of vehicle manufacturers’ new products many that have evolved through collaboration between vehicle manufacturers, their converters, and police fleet managers. Collaboration and standardisation Two common denominators in recent years within the police service, and in particular with regard to NAPFM police fleet management, have been collaboration and standardisation. Police fleet managers have already evidenced tremendous achievements in this area, in particular with regard to National Benchmarking, joined up frameworks and local procurement initiatives. This has involved working closely with NPIA, ACPO, National Police Federation, OGC etc. This drive and commitment to the future of police fleets as well as sharing good practice with those within the other emergency fleet sectors has delivered further standardisation, as well as reductions in police fleet costs. Major motor manufacturers Obviously there will be a number of the world’s major motor manufacturers exhibiting, too many to mention individually, however, set out here is just a small example of those who will be in attendance. Ford will be showing its Fiesta and Focus ‘Turn Key’ cars, the new C-Max will also be on show, as well as new technology with regard to West Mercia’s Ford Focus Dog Cage temperature monitoring system. In addition a range of solutions produced by the company’s one stop shop facility, Ford SVP, will also be on display. Vauxhall will also be showing a range of vehicle
The Volvo S60.
types being produced at its facility at Millbrook, where the company has been extremely successful in developing a range of products with ideas and concepts shared with specialist equipment manufacturers and fleet managers from the UK police service. BMW will, under a new brand name RESPoNSe, broaden its factory-fitted infrastructure packages. The company claims to be the only vehicle manufacturer to offer production line installed and supported specialist equipment for authorities, eg police, fire and rescue and ambulance services. BMW will also be launching its new RT-P motorcycle and an updated X5 x Drive model.
The NPIA/NAPFM procurement frameworks clearly evidence not only collaboration and joinedup thinking within the police service fleets, but also the ability to support the other emergency services. The VAG stand will show a range of vehicles, from Audi, SKODA, Seat, Volkswagen etc, in particular the group will focus on its environmentally friendly vehicles, including the ability to deliver a diverse and significant range of vehicles to suit a range of policing operations.
Safety innovation Volvo will present the All New S60 saloon, which handles like no other Volvo before. Fitted with another first in safety innovation the S60 features Volvo’s Pedestrian Detection, which automatically brakes the car when a pedestrian is detected. The upgrade to Volvo’s existing Auto Brake system consists of a newly developed radar unit integrated into the car’s grille, a camera fitted in front of the interior rear-view mirror, and a central control unit. The radar’s task is to detect any object in front of the car and to determine the distance to it. The camera determines what type of object it is. The newly developed dual-mode radar’s much wider field of vision ensures that pedestrians about to step into the roadway can be detected early on, says Volvo. The camera has higher resolution than the previous-generation Auto Brake, which also makes it possible to detect the pedestrian’s pattern of movement. Volvo says the system can avoid a collision with a pedestrian altogether at speeds of up to 21mph if the driver does not react in time. At higher speeds, the focus is on reducing the car’s speed as much as possible prior to the impact. The company quotes statistics that show when speed is cut from 30mph to 15mph, Pedestrian Detection with full Auto Brake should reduce the fatality risk by as much as 20 percent and in certain cases by up to 85 percent. In addition there will be a significant range of vehicle integrated technology systems and fixed equipment, such as lightbars, siren systems, ANPR, mobile data terminals etc, including the ACPO ITS / HOSDB SAV (Single Vehicle Architecture) Project, designed to aid the integration of technical equipment within police vehicles. The recent Home Office white paper, Protecting the public: supporting the police to succeed, highlighted the need for the standardisation of a
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UK ‘beat car’. This work had already been addressed by the NAPFM National Committee and membership who, working with both vehicle manufacturers and their respective ‘one stop shop’ providers, have delivered a limited range of standardised patrol cars in recent years. This year’s show will evidence the excellent ongoing work being carried out in this area.
Ambulex® back for 2010 Following a successful first year Ambulex® will continue to run alongside the successful and long-standing NAPFM conference and Exhibition, now in it 37th year.
Ambulex® will continue to be the only UK exhibition exclusively targeting ambulances, ambulance support vehicles and related equipment. It attracts visitors from the public and private ambulance fleet managers sectors, senior NHS trust managers, emergency services, military and international visitors. Visitors will be able to see everything from frontline ambulances, PTS vehicles, paramedic vehicles, high performance motorcycles and cars, together with patient care and vehicle support equipment and services. Further information regarding floor plans and costs will be released when available. Any questions or expressions of interest for exhibitors should be sent to the organisers at mike.phillips@ambulex.com. www.ambulex.com
Procurement frameworks The NAPFM recently published its five-year strategy document, and its vision statement reads, ‘To provide and deliver the most economic, efficient and effective transport and logistics service to UK police forces’. In recent years there has been clear evidence of the association’s success in driving down the cost of running police fleets. Working in conjunction with ACPO, NPIA procurement and, for certain elements of spend, *OGC Buying Solutions, the NAPFM has delivered significant financial savings to the UK police service by setting in place a number of call-off framework arrangements. These include: vehicles; vehicle parts; tyres; vehicle disposal; lightbars; glass – windscreens; and fuel* – fuel cards. The total savings value against retail prices is in the region of £56.5m. Vehicles alone have contributed in excess of £36m. These frameworks have created a model that will deliver the right products at the optimum price, and drive continued financial savings within the police fleet arena, which in today’s financial climate is not an option, it is an essential part of core business. The NPIA/NAPFM procurement frameworks clearly evidence not only collaboration and joined-up
thinking within the police service fleets, but also the ability to support the other emergency services. For example, the vehicle procurement framework allows for the UK fire and rescue services to utilise this particular arrangement for vehicle procurement; the vehicle disposal framework currently set in place with British Car Auctions is available for use by the NHS; and the emergency vehicle blue light – lightbar framework is open to all UK government – including emergency service vehicle fleets. The NAPFM annual Conference and Exhibition is key to the success of the association, as it clearly evidences on an annual basis the work that has been achieved to date by NAPFM police fleet managers, working with NPIA, ACPO and OGC in delivering a fit for purpose UK police vehicle fleet management service, that can be collaboratively shared with the other emergency services; this should be seen as ‘True Collaboration That Has Been Delivered’. Wiltshire Constabulary’s Chief Constable Brian Moore, Event Manager Mike Cripps and his team, and Steve Botham, Wiltshire Constabulary’s Fleet Manager, need to be congratulated for providing a unique and not to be missed emergency service fleet event. www.napfmevent.org.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Author: John Bradley MBE, Fleet Manager, Hampshire Constabulary and NAPFM Press Officer See us on Stand P16
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New regulations mean independent ambulance services will soon need a licence to operate The regulation of health and adult social care is changing and from next year providers of private and voluntary ambulance services will be included for the first time. Under the Health and Social Care Act 2008, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is introducing a new system of registration, which brings the NHS, independent healthcare and adult social care under a single set of essential standards of quality and safety. The Department of Health has set out the new regulations in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2010 and Care Quality Commission (Registration) Regulations 2009. As part of this change, providers of independent ambulance services will need to be registered with CQC by 1 April 2011. Registration is, in effect, a licence to operate. It means that people can expect providers to meet essential standards of safety and quality that respect their dignity and rights. The new system is focused on outcomes, rather than systems and processes, and places the views and experiences of people who use care services at its centre. Who needs to register? Registration under the new act will apply to all providers of regulated health and adult social care
services and for the first time, this includes independent ambulance providers as well as GPs’ practices, NHS trusts, and dentists that undertake a regulated activity.
“…the new standards are legally enforceable, so to breach a standard is an offence.” Any provider delivering regulated activities, as defined by the Health and Social Care Act 2008, needs to be registered with the CQC. Regulated activities include the treatment of disease, disorder and injury, surgical procedures, nursing care, diagnostic and screening procedures and others. A
full list is available on our website. So registration will be at provider level and a provider may be registered to provide services from more than one location, so practitioners within a group or partnership will not need to register separately. It is the legal body that provides the services that needs to register as the provider. Once a provider shows it is meeting the required set of standards, it will be registered and effectively granted a licence to provide services. The 28 essential standards that providers need to meet for registration include ensuring essential levels of hygiene and safety are provided. For example, the outcome on the safety, availability and suitability of equipment directs that providers make sure service users are not at risk from harm from unsafe or unsuitable equipment. The care that people say they experience will also play an essential role in our assessments.
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Continuously monitor After initial registration, CQC will continuously monitor whether providers are meeting the essential standards of quality and safety. CQC will hold a profile for each registered provider containing all the information relevant to its compliance. One of the most notable differences between the old system of regulation and the new one is that the new standards are legally enforceable, so to breach a standard is an offence. If we find that standards are breached, we will use our wide range of enforcement powers to prompt action. These escalate from warning notices to fines to cancellation of registration and the closure of services.
Timeline 2008
New legislation is proposed
2010 April
Legislation achieves royal assent
2010 April
NHS registration system is launched
2010 October Adult social care system is launched 2011 April
Dental services and private and voluntary ambulances are registered
2012 April
GPs are registered
We can also undertake a review of compliance to target areas of concern, called responsive reviews, that can take place at any time. Fees All providers of independent ambulance services will be required to pay a fee and, from October, we will be seeking views on a proposed fee structure for the new system of registration via our consultation programme. There will not be any fees for the initial registration application but an annual fee will apply from 1 April 2011.
There is no set frequency for inspection, but CQC can perform a planned review of compliance, such as an inspection or an information request, as often as every three months but no less frequently than every two years. The frequency of these reviews will depend on the nature of the services provided, the people who use them and the information routinely received from the provider.
Timeline of events To manage the large amount of expected applications, CQC will handle them in application ‘windows’, ie an allocated timeframe, which means some providers may be asked to apply for registration as early as October 2010. Providers will be divided into groups and each group will be given a window to submit their application. In order to help prepare for this, CQC is encouraging providers to look at its website and to
familiarise themselves with the essential standards against which they will be assessed. CQC recently published Guidance about Compliance: Essential standards of quality and safety, which makes clear to providers the outcomes it expects people to experience if providers are compliant with the new regulations. The guidance is focused on outcomes, the experiences people have as a result of the care they receive. For further guidance on compliance, go to www.cqcguidanceaboutcompliance.org.uk. If we receive a provider’s application by the deadline given, then they will be able to continue to operate legally after 1 April 2011 even if CQC has not processed the application. Further information For further information on the registration process, providers can sign up to CQC’s monthly e-update for health and social care professionals at www.cqc.org.uk/newsandevents/newsletter.cfm and join CQC’s provider reference group, an online community offering the opportunity to engage with our work through a variety of methods including surveys, discussion forms and polls. You can sign up by e-mailing: cqc@nunwood.com. We will be writing to providers to advise what will happen next and about further action that needs to be taken. www.cqc.org.uk/registration
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Author: Linda Hutchinson, Director of Registration, Care Quality Commission
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Pan-Government framework could meet your specialist vehicle needs Firebuy’s pan-Government collaborative procurement for specialist vehicles (sponsored by the Office of Government Commerce) has been designed to meet the needs of the public sector wherever there is a special or bespoke vehicle requirement. It doesn’t matter if it is fire truck, an RCV or a sweeper, Firebuy’s framework agreement can provide it. The Firebuy specialist vehicle framework agreement enables users to calculate whole-life costing models contributing towards value for money purchases. One of the key objectives for this framework agreement is to deliver greater standardisation, interoperability, quality, safety and fit for purpose special vehicles, through panGovernment frameworks that conform to ‘compliant procurement accreditation’ and deliver greater efficiencies. Who can use the framework? The framework agreement is available to emergency services, public safety, Government departments, the local authority sector as well as health and education. Firebuy is particularly experienced in dealing with specialist vehicles from any sector that are not standard ‘off the shelf products’ and either have machinery parts fitted or require conversions for specific uses. The organisation can also ensure that the information and training for the vehicle to be operated safely is readily available.
“Firebuy can function as a support agency, being used to the stringent demands of special vehicle acquisition and delivery.” Firebuy’s experts also offer a full and comprehensive contract management support throughout the process including an independent mini-competition service. Graham Maltby, Firebuy’s Commercial Director for Vehicles and Emergency Response Equipment, said, “Because the European tender process has already been carried out, purchasers will save money and time. This means that Firebuy can function as a support agency, being used to the stringent demands of special vehicle acquisition and delivery. The
contract we provide deals with all the legislative requirements as well as the requirements of the European Machinery Directive, which in the local authority sector are often overlooked, or not fully understood. We know that our suppliers are committed to the best deal.” Background Firebuy carried out a full EU procurement process, and this resulted in a single framework agreement, consisting of three core contracts covering the chassis and cab, top hamper/bodywork and conversions and finishes. The framework agreement includes price, warranty, maintenance and support, and it also provides purchasers with more choice, as it is not a single source contract in which there are only a number of suppliers for each commodity. Graham adds, “We keep the marketplace buoyant and on its toes. Price is determined by mini-competition, meaning that suppliers have to take the commercial risk, if they want the business at a profit.”
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The Lots The Lots include the provision of vehicles, top hamper/bodywork and conversion and the contract includes provisions for the vehicles to be purchased, leased or hired and such hiring may be on a fixed, short-term or temporary basis. Lot 1 is for light and heavy commercial vehicles that could range from pickup trucks through to multi-axle heavy commercial trucks and tractor units. Lot 1 Angloco Limited Browns Coachworks Ltd Dennis Eagle Ltd Emergency One (UK) Ltd FAME Commercials Ltd Ford Motor Company Ltd Hytrans Systems b.v. JDS Renault Trucks Lynton Trailers (UK) Ltd
Mitsubishi Motors UK Plastisol UK Limited Scania UK Limited Sparshatts of Kent Limited Terberg Matec UK Limited Torton Bodies Limited Truck East Limited Volvo Trucks Limited Whale Tankers Limited Wilker UK Limited
Lot 2 is for bodywork and/or top hampers and trailer. This would include conventional vehicle bodies and their variants such as curtainsiders and demountables but also any dedicated function mounted on or in this arrangement, ie a pumping unit or its ancillary equipment. It would also encompass vehicles where the bodywork is part of the function of the vehicle, ie tankers, mobile information units, logistics carriers etc. Lot 2 Angloco Limited Bott Limited Browns Coachworks Ltd Bunce (Ashbury) Limited Cebotec Limited Dennis Eagle Limited Emergency One (UK) Ltd FAME Commercials Ltd Hytrans Systems b.v JDC Coachbuilders Limited JDS Renault Trucks Johnson Securities Limited
Johnston Sweepers Limited Lynton Trailers (UK) Ltd Park Lodge International Ltd Plastisol UK Limited Scania UK Limited Terberg Matec UK Limited TGS Group Limited Torton Bodies Limited Truck East Limited W H Bence Coachworks Ltd Whale Tankers Limited Wilker UK Limited
Lot 3 is for conversion. This would be a range of activities from converting a standard panel van into a mobile workplace to installing equipment, beacons, sirens, logos and conspicuity and communication systems into the whole range of products that may be available through the framework. Lot 3 AES Limited Angloco Limited Allied Vehicles Limited Bott Limited Browns Coachworks Limited Cebotec Limited Dennis Eagle Limited Emergency One (UK) Ltd Excelerate Technology Ltd FAME Commercials Limited Halls Auto Electrical Limited Hytrans Systems b.v James Alpe Limited JDS Trucks Limited
Johnson Securities Limited Kinetic Grafix (Strypz) Ltd Lynton Trailers (UK) Limited S MacNeillie & Son Limited Mitsubishi Motors UK Park Lodge International Ltd Plastisol UK Limited Scania UK Limited Transport Engineering TGS Group Limited Torton Bodies Limited Truck East Limited W H Bence Limited Whale Tankers Limited Wilker UK Limited
The ‘finished’ vehicle may use all three lots to form the completed vehicle, but where a complete vehicle is available under Lot 1, it could then go straight to Lot 3 for finishing where appropriate and bypass Lot 2 completely. It is also possible to just use Lot 2 and/or 3 if the vehicle is procured through another contract. Mini-competitions The four-year framework agreement requires the contracting authorities to undertake minicompetitions for any or all of the three Lots involving the suppliers capable of providing bespoke or standardised specialist vehicles within the categories listed above unless they can establish permissible justification for not doing so in accordance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2006.
All of the vehicles sold on the contract will be tested by especially designed software, called FireStore, which monitors the weight of equipment and the access to equipment, so that it will always comply with regulations, and so people can always operate, lift and use the equipment safely. In addition, Firebuy is requiring Whole Type Vehicle approval from its suppliers. EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval is a way of making sure vehicles are safe to be used on the road and respect environmental considerations, without having to inspect and test every single one. Currently EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval applies to passenger cars. Over the next few years EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval will be extended to cover all new road vehicles and trailers. The new directive will also cover national schemes for small series vehicles and individual approval. Graham clarifies, “These issues needed to be built into the framework agreement, as they will soon become mandatory as well as providing the necessary health and safety for the operator. Firebuy has not been designed to take business away from other agencies, but it offers an alternative that provides an insight into what public sector requirements are and how they can be met. The fit for purpose, quality and safety requirements often overlooked but a high risk to all purchasers and operators in the wider public sector remains a cornerstone of Firebuy’s business ethics and we continue to place this a high priority for targeting our resources.” www.firebuy.gov.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
See us on Stand E29
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‘999… which BMW Service do you require?’ Widely considered as the market-leading supplier for police high performance cars and motorcycles, BMW is poised to expand with new special products for fire and rescue and NHS ambulance services as well as updating and increasing its police range. So, what has prompted this sudden market expansion and why now? The same xDrive 4x4 system and extensive list of high tech active and passive safety systems are fitted as standard to the X1. While BMW does not openly publish a government price list, after being shown the price, the X1 Authorities model may well upset the established order! Fire and rescue service Firmly established in the police market, BMW has put forward the high payload version of the X5 as a Targeted Response Unit. The demonstrator is equipped for operational evaluation with a full array of emergency warning equipment, a power management system, CCTV for crew protection, bespoke racking and a slide-out tray accommodating partnership placement equipment from Angloco, with a Rosenbauer PolyCAFS fire extinguishing system and a ResQtec FX4 combi-tool.
Head of the specialist BMW department for Authorities – National Operations Manager, Andrew Buxton, says, “The answer lays as much in the past as the near future. I joined BMW nearly five years ago with a desire to merge all areas of the BMW Group working with Authorities customers into one department. With considerable company support, we achieved this within two years and to this day it is unusual for a multi-national business to permit such mergers. The net result being that our customers have a single point of contact for sales and Aftersales of BMW Group specialist vehicles sold to all government emergency services/agencies for car, motorcycle, ballistically protected vehicles and MINI. “To grow the market further it was imperative to ensure that the Aftersales function could support the specialist nature of what are effectively high dependency customers operating vehicles 24/7 for 365 days a year, beyond the high quality service already given to retail and business customers. I’m
sure that fleet managers and operational staff alike can recite many cases of suppliers focusing a disproportionate amount of time on selling products rather than maintaining a high availability of those already sold. BMW has a mature support system for emergency service vehicles and, I like to think, a strong reputation. Having evolved this system, it was time to look at who else we could offer specialist BMW products to.” Not doing things in half measures, BMW is launching new products into to the NHS ambulance and fire and rescue markets this year. NHS ambulance service The new BMW X1 xDrive range is being launched as an RRV, marked Duty Officer and Dr’s car with engine options for 18d, 20d and 23d and CO2 outputs starting at 149g/km. Interestingly, with X1, X3 (all new model due October), X5 and X6, BMW now offers as many 4x4 models as some established 4x4 only manufacturers.
The BMW X5 xDrive30d AC model has an exceptionally low CO2 output of 195g/km and a combined mpg of 38.2 (from June production). Equipped as standard with the BMW xDrive 4x4 system this vehicle provides a very capable operating platform with a very high payload of 765kgs. www.bmwauthorities.co.uk See us on Stand 323
National Grid to the rescue in Cumbria Gas and electricity company National Grid has helped Bay Search and Rescue shift into top gear by donating a Land Rover emergency vehicle. The off-road Land Rover Defender will form part of the rescue team’s rapid response to life-saving incidents in the Morecambe Bay area. Great rescue record Simon Griew, National Grid’s Commercial Services Manager, said, “Bay Search and Rescue do a great job in Cumbria, and when they contacted us to see if we had a vehicle we could donate to the rescue team volunteers we were delighted to be able to say yes. As operators of the National Gas Emergency Service, National Grid has an insight into what it takes to provide emergency response
teams so we were more than happy to help out.” Gary Foster, National Grid’s Fleet Manager, who handed over the vehicle, said, “We are pleased to be handing over this vehicle today. Bay Search and Rescue have such a great rescue record and we hope the donation of this vehicle will help them maintain their success.” Gary Parsons, Bay Search and Rescue Station Officer, said, “I’d like to thank National Grid for their timely donation of the Land Rover as one of our current vehicles needs to be replaced. Land Rovers are versatile vehicles and this one will be used as an ambulance and also to support our Quicksand rapid response and swift water call outs.” http://baysearchandrescue.org
Gary Parsons, Bay Search and Rescue (Left) and Gary Foster, National Grid.
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Traka system is key to improved driver care Traka intelligent access management solutions are used by police and emergency services throughout the UK to control, monitor and protect their vehicle fleets. Central to this system is the Traka ‘iFob’. When attached to a driver’s keys, it enables vital data to be logged so that fleet managers can always identify individual vehicle drivers and hold them accountable for any defects or damage. Each iFob has a unique identity and, every time a driver takes a key, his or her individual ID is logged onto the Traka system for quick and easy access as required. Fleet managers are familiar with the risk factors of managing their vehicles. Not only are officers being trusted with valuable assets, but also the force’s reputation on the road. The proven Traka system provides an instant and reliable safeguard. Only authorised drivers have access to keys, making them fully accountable for vehicles, which
they, alone, are licensed or trained to drive. Because the onus is now on them, drivers take more care, leading to less damage. Reporting defects can also be encouraged which results in greater fleet utilisation and reduced costs. Thanks to the Traka system, fleet managers can also keep a close eye on mileage and ensure vehicles are pre-booked and available for servicing and repairs. Touch screen system Traka has boosted its extensive product range with the launch of a stand-alone touch screen system. The Traka Touch is an independent, intelligent device that simplifies key management while improving accuracy and efficiency. The Traka Touch makes keys available to authorised users 24/7, working independently of any server or IT network. The Touch is a
sophisticated key management solution where everything is controlled via the touch screen on the front panel: from the initial set-up of users and keys, right through to day-to-day access.
Management reports can be viewed directly on screen or exported via a USB port and the system has full audit capability, retaining a complete history of all transactions. www.traka.com
Portable power
Hymera is BOC’s new hydrogen-powered fuel cell generator for portable power applications. It is the UK’s first commercially viable low carbon alternative to small petrol/diesel generators, providing up to 200W of peak power whenever and wherever you need it. Versatile Hymera is available in either a 230V AC or 110V AC variant. This makes it extremely versatile and suitable for a wide variety of applications, including temporary lighting, traffic management systems, power tool charging, instrumentation, illuminated signage and environmental monitoring. The military, emergency services, rail repair, construction, security and surveillance, marine and local authorities are just an example of the market segments that would benefit from using Hymera for their off grid portable power requirements. Ideally suited With only water vapour as an emission and near silent operation, Hymera has the added benefit of being ideally suited for applications indoors or in confined spaces – something that no diesel/petrol generator could ever do. It’s compact, lightweight, ergonomic design and its simple functionality make the Hymera hydrogen fuel cell generator a highly desirable and valued asset to anyone that requires instant zero emission electricity on demand. www.boconline.co.uk
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Emergency vehicles fit to face the future Across the UK, the emergency services are under increasing pressure to meet the demands placed upon them and provide a responsive and cutting edge service. To support the needs of any incident and provide welfare and operational strength to the teams deployed, specialist and innovative vehicles are key to success. Over the last two decades, W H Bence Coachworks has specialised in providing the necessary specialist vehicles and flexible, mobile spaces for the emergency services. From command and control units to community liaison vehicles and negotiation suites, the vehicles are designed to meet the rigorous operational requirements demanded of them in the toughest of situations. From a small van to a bulk equipment carrier, W H Bence has built its reputation in supplying the highest quality vehicles combined with the latest communications technology to ensure emergency services have a rapidly deployable mobile environment from which to respond to or manage any incident. Robust vehicle designs to deliver support in hazardous conditions In 2008, W H Bence was awarded the national contract for Major Incident Response Vehicles as part of the Hazardous Area Response Team programme (HART). The 45 vehicles it has designed and produced included a state-of-the-art command vehicle; a reconnaissance vehicle to safely transport up to five operators while working in a multitude of hazardous situations for the ambulance service; and a robust equipmentcarrying vehicle to serve the demands of extreme situations. Steve Wheaton, Regional Head of Specialist Operations for West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust, states, “Our vehicles operate in a unique environment and are called to incidents that standard command vehicles are unsuitable for. We worked closely with the W H Bence design team and management to not only develop the HART vehicles but also evaluate six months after
The internal infrastructure of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s command and control unit.
go-live and make any reengineering changes or fault amends to ensure ultimate user satisfaction. This collaborative way of working enabled us to create vehicles that are perfectly suited to the operational needs. It has also ensured that W H Bence has a deep and ongoing understanding of what we need to have delivered to specifically meet our local organisational needs as well as for the HART project nationally.” In addition to working with the West Midlands Ambulance Service on the HART vehicles, W H Bence also created a command and control vehicle. Steve Wheaton continues, “When we briefed W H Bence on what we wanted our new vehicle to look
like, we sat down with them to identify what the best chassis was for our needs and what other features we needed to adjust to ensure we got exactly the equipment and technology to meet our requirements. “Our experience of working with W H Bence is that it takes customer service seriously. It also provides good after sales service. Once our vehicle had been built and left the factory W H Bence was still on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week to support any issues that arose. It is clear that commitment to customer satisfaction is a high priority.”
W H Bence – serving the needs of police, fire and rescue and ambulance services: Police – Vehicle solutions include command and control units tailored to operational requirements; briefing suites and rest areas to serve welfare needs; and surveillance and negotiation units to a ‘low visibility’ and soundproofed design with information communication technology support infrastructure. Fire and rescue – Similar to police force requirements, command and control units can be designed yet with added consideration to specialist equipment storage systems and high impact seating; community liaison vehicles are built to house the latest audio-visual technology and include awnings and side openings for easy external engagement. Ambulance service – The build of paramedic ambulances are also supported with tailored designs of command and control vehicles and hazardous response units that can make access into rough terrain and extreme conditions.
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Major incident response units are tailored to meet specific requirements and supported by W H Bence long after the sale.
“W H Bence has a proven reputation in the industry for providing high quality of workmanship.” External and internal design considerations important to support operational and welfare needs For fire and rescue services, there is a constant need to operate efficiently in harsh environments with designs taking into account maximum protection from heat, water and smoke. At the same time
vehicles need to support the health and welfare of teams deployed and underpin operational efficiency of the task in hand. Peter Coughlan at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service commissioned W H Bence to create a Command and Control unit for the service. Peter comments, “W H Bence has a proven reputation in the industry for providing high quality of workmanship. We needed a vehicle that was able to deal with the extreme conditions and provide the latest communication technology to further enhance the safety of our operational firefighters. We are pleased with the finished vehicle, which meets the ongoing demands and requirements of a modern fire service.”
Design and build teams complemented by fleet management services W H Bence supports the nation’s emergency service teams by providing innovative and fully tailored response vehicles and mobile spaces. Its design and build teams are also complemented by fleet management services that support vehicles long after the transactional sale and build stages. Oliver Brown, Sales Director at W H Bence, closes, “The emergency services provide an invaluable service to our country, often in dangerous situations. We are delighted to be working with organisations across the UK to deliver specialist tailored vehicles and trailers to support rapid response and modern communications. Through our in-house fleet and maintenance service we’re also committed to the long-term support of our customers to ensure vehicles are in the best shape to keep on delivering well into the future.”
W H Bence Coachworks Tel: 01454 310909 E-mail: sales@whbence.co.uk www.whbence.co.uk
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UK first for Merseyside Fire The latest additions to Merseyside’s blue light fleet have been unveiled – fire bikes. It is the first time motorcycles with fire fighting capability have been used in the UK and the bikes, along with the personal equipment, have been specially designed. The BMW RT1200 police-spec bikes went on the run in August, ridden by Colin Golden and Chris Bowers and attending small rubbish fires as part of a six-month pilot. Motorcycles have been used by fire and rescue services for operational duties throughout the world for some years, including Hong Kong, Sweden, Denmark, Italy and Turkey but this is the first time they have been used in the UK. Group Manager John McCormack, who has led the project on behalf of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, said, “It is a pioneering way of dealing with small fires and because it has never been done here, the project has been several years in the making. The bike and the kit have been specifically designed so that they are safe and fit for purpose and we are impressed with the products that we now have.” The wheel deal The motorbikes carry two 25 litre tanks and a 30m hose reel with a dual-nozzle that can deliver either water droplets or foam. This mixture of foam and water can ‘knock back’ a fire quickly. The droplets hang in the air, interfere with the propagation of the flame and cool it. A layer of foam is then applied to prevent re-ignition. The system, created by Denmark-based Firexpress, uses compressed air to power it, so that it operates independently of the bike’s motor. Just as important as the fire fighting equipment, has been the personal protective equipment (PPE). Although the fire bikes were in use elsewhere in the world, there was no PPE available on the market that met both EU professional motorcycle
rider standards and professional fire fighting standards. This was important, as there was no room to carry spare kit or time for riders to get changed. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service has worked alongside Universal Carbon Fibres to produce a kit that met all requirements. The kit now worn by the riders has never been seen anywhere in the world. Why fire bikes? Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service first started using motorbikes five years ago, when a firefighter suggested that they might be a valuable aid to automatic fire alarms (AFAs). At the time, Liverpool city centre was going through an intensive building programme known as the ‘Big Dig’, which was causing traffic congestion. A motorbike was sent to AFAs in the city during business hours with the usual fire appliance
turnout. Historically, more than 97% of all AFAs turn out to be false alarms, so the bike helped to free up fire appliances for genuine emergencies. The motorcycle arrived at incidents before the appliances on around 94% of occasions but was also able to carry out pro-active work and build up relationships in the city centre to try and reduce AFAs. The success of this project led the fire and rescue service to investigate how else motorbikes might enhance operational response. So at the end of 2007 a project team was set up and they discovered that other parts of the world used motorbikes with fire fighting capability. More than 60% of Merseyside’s fire calls are to rubbish fires, including skips, wheelie bins and grass fires. The service has used Small Fires Units (Mercedes Sprinter vans) to attend these. Deputy Chief Fire Officer Mike Hagen said, “Anti-social behaviour fires, such as wheelie bins and skips, account for 62% of our total fire callouts. We used to send a fire engine with a full crew to tackle them, but we want these appliances available for emergencies where life or property is at risk. In recent years we have looked at alternative ways to tackle these incidents and these fire bikes offer a new, exciting possibility.” www.merseyfire.gov.uk
Author: Sam Thomas, Communication Manager, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.
BAE invests in small boats centre of excellence When BAE Systems acquired VT Group’s 45% shareholding in BVT in October 2009, it brought the historic Halmatic range of small boats into full ownership of the global defence group. Renamed BAE Systems Surface Ships, the business boasts an impressive portfolio spanning the whole spectrum of military vessels from aircraft carriers through to fast interceptors and rigid inflatable boats (RIBs). Providing a design, build, integration and support capability, it is a leader in the global market for naval ships and associated through-life support. Building on over 50 years experience of producing high performance military and paramilitary craft under its legacy Halmatic brand, BAE Systems has invested over £1.5m to create a brand new small boats centre of excellence at its facilities in Portsmouth Naval Base, to ensure it remains at the cutting edge for years to come. The new purpose-built facility offers a fully integrated service across the entire life cycle from concept,
design and production through to repair, refit and maintenance. Working closely with Special Forces, navies, armies, air forces and government agencies, BAE Systems’ small boats are now used in over 40 countries worldwide. Its customer list reads as a ‘Who’s Who’ in the world of RIB operators, including the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and many of the world’s leading military, special forces, police, customs and search and rescue authorities. Several UK police forces across the country have the Artic 24, Pacific 24 and Pacific 28 RIBs in service including the Metropolitan, Northumbria, Essex, Hampshire and UK MoD Police. A vital tool in law enforcement, they are used for hostile and non-hostile boardings of shipping, commercial
and pleasure craft, as well as coastal patrols and assisting specialist sections such as the tactical firearms units. www.baesystems.com
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Land Rover – The vehicle of choice Designed to face some of the planet’s most unforgiving environments and situations, the range is built to deliver a service that can be trusted.
DISCOVERY 4 QUICK FACTS – SDV6 3.0 Automatic Engine SDV6 3.0 Automatic Engine Capacity (cc) 2993 Urban mpg (L100km) 25.2 (11.2) Extra urban mpg (L100km) 34.0 (8.3) Combined mpg (L100km) 30.4 (9.3) Maximum speed mpg (L100km) 112(180) Max torque 600Nm @ 2,000rpm Acceleration – 0-60 mph (secs) 9.0 Wading depth (mm) 700 (with air suspension) Ground clearance (mm) Up to 310 (with air suspension) Max towing (kg) 3,500 244 CO2 emissions (g/km) Max payload (kg) 1950 DEFENDER QUICK FACTS - 90 Station Wagon Engine 2.4 litre diesel Engine Capacity (cc) 2400 Urban mpg (L100km) 22.6 (12.5) Extra urban mpg (L100km) 32.9 (8.6) Combined mpg (L100km) 28.3 (10.0) Maximum speed mpg (L100km) 87 (140) Max torque 360Nm @ 2,200rpm Acceleration – 0-60 mph (secs) 14.7 Wading depth (mm) 500 Ground clearance (mm) 250 Max towing (kg) 3,500 266 CO2 emissions (g/km) Max payload (kg) 761
60 years supporting vital services From the moment we unveiled our first Land Rover back in 1948, Land Rover has been dedicated to building a relationship with the emergency services, MoD, military and utility companies. These services go above and beyond their call of duty every day to ensure the safety of the public. It is therefore essential to have a vehicle that is responsive, reliable and can assist them with the demands of the modern world. Built to ensure confidence, Land Rover is capable of helping all organisations cope with a variety of emergencies, in all sorts of environments, especially where other 4x4 vehicles can’t reach. And we are delighted to have been accepted as sponsors of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
terrains, as well as the breadth of technology and its commanding driving position makes Land Rover the ideal choice to aid the emergency services. Where we’re heading Land Rover is constantly discovering new ways to improve and remodel its vehicles, focusing on technologies that not only improve on and off-road capability but also increase fuel efficiency to reduce their impact on the environment. And none of this could be achieved without the valuable ‘in the field’ feedback we receive from the emergency services, MoD, military and utility companies. We’ll always be adapting for the future; however, we will keep the core elements that make Land Rover products the vehicle of choice. For more information or to arrange a meeting please contact Phil Cannell our National Accounts Manager on Tel: 01926 649490 or e-mail him at pcannel2@jaguarlandrover.com See the future with a vehicle you can trust. Land Rover.
A sustainable future Land Rover vehicles simply are fit for purpose. Their capabilities on tricky
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Reliability is key to Mitsubishi success From motorways to mountaintops and reservoirs to remote beaches, there’s one manufacturer that’s enjoying increasing popularity in a growing number of blue and amber light applications. And to discover just why Mitsubishi’s now a significant player in these lucrative markets, I recently travelled to Cirencester to speak to the team responsible for the importer’s impressive growth in the last few years. Pounding a busy motorway beat. Keeping auto crime at bay with one of the north’s most effective road policing units. Patrolling London’s busy streets 24/7. Ensuring remote communities are policed in fair weather and foul. Providing an innovative ‘green’ solution to city centre police work. All in a day’s work for Mitsubishi’s hard working range of police vehicles, which have justifiably earned a reputation as some of the hardest working members of the emergency services. That opening ‘snapshot’ gives an insight to the sheer variety of roles Mitsubishi light commercials, cars, crossovers and sports utility vehicles have in working with police forces throughout the UK – providing cost effective solutions for hard pressed fleet managers in a variety of roles. Wearing Mitsubishi’s famed ‘three diamonds’ logo with pride, the company’s vehicles, from the Shogun, Outlander, Lancer Evolution and its latest electric i-MiEV, are all making their vital contribution to law enforcement nationwide.
But there’s a lot more to Mitsubishi’s success than the frontline police work. And to see how successful it’s become in the last five years, I visited the company’s Special Vehicle Operations centre based in Cirencester, a few miles away for the company’s UK headquarters that’s been based in the Gloucestershire town since 1974. Amber light market I soon discovered that Mitsubishi is not only a force to be reckoned with in the blue light market, but has also established an enviable reputation with amber light customers as diverse as the Forestry Commission, RNLI, Vodafone, BT and Severn Trent Water among others. And the key to the company’s success? In a word, ‘reliability’. Mitsubishi’s growth in what have proved to be very lucrative markets started in a very small way – both literally and figuratively. Its Shogun Pinin was one its first successes in the amber light market with a contract to supply vehicles to the Environment Agency back in 2002. Scroll on eight years and I’m stood in the middle of a busy workshop at the Mitsubishi Specialist Vehicle Operations (MSVO) centre where a variety of Master Technicians are kept busy in a number of important roles.
I’m surrounded by a multiplicity of different vehicles – including one of the new 2010 model year Shoguns (of which more later), various L200s, the new ASX, an Outlander and last but not least an Evo in the valeting bay. It’s a one-stop-shop where everything is taken care of, from sophisticated electronics to liveries and a whole lot more.
It’s probably one of the very rare occasions when you’ll ever see a Mitsubishi in bits – MSVO staff all have a thorough working knowledge of new vehicles before they reach customers and it’s their intimate knowledge of the product which gives fleet managers such confidence in ordering from the Mitsubishi SVO team. New orders Latest successes have included two orders for Outlanders from North Yorkshire Police and the Strathclyde force which have each bought 11 vehicles. The recent winter weather which brought much of Scotland to a halt showed the Outlander crossovers in glowing colours in the Tayside area where they played a sterling role in keeping traffic moving as well as patrolling some of the area’s most remote communities.
During my visit I was in the capable hands of Darren Hughes, the MSVO Manager, and Vanessa Nalder, who will be best known to fleet managers as its Corporate Sales Manager for Specialist Vehicles. Darren has seen a lot of changes in the company’s growth in the blue and amber light markets. The MSVO centre relocated after seven years of constant growth from a hangar near Stroud to safer and securer premises in Cirencester in early 2009 and now six Master Technicians, two body specialists and a valeter are responsible for a steady stream of work, which is all completed in house. Of the 600 vehicles that pass through its doors every year, 60 percent are for various police forces, the rest for amber light customers.
“Mitsubishi is not only a force to be reckoned with in the blue light market, but has also established an enviable reputation with amber light customers.” Every vehicle is converted with the attention to detail that Mitsubishi is famed for. A case in point was a new L200 ordered by the Forestry Commission; a respray in the organisation’s corporate livery had been done so professionally that it looked like it was an ex-works vehicle. I was intrigued to see a new ASX in pieces while Master Technician John Lafford, who has been with Mitsubishi over 30 years, was figuring out how to by-pass its sophisticated electronics with a run safe system for when it’s parked up at an incident.
The latest version of the iconic Shogun is one of the greenest SUVs in its class with a number of technical changes to the diesel power plant. The 10.5 model has earned an enviable reputation in the hard working Highways Agency Traffic Officer (HATO) fleet where it serves alongside rivals from Toyota and Land Rover – another Japanese manufacturer was barred from tendering after its 4x4 offering was dismissed as simply not up the job of covering up to 100,000 miles each year on UK motorways. And The Met is another appreciative customer for Shogun, which patrols the capital on a daily basis. Electric car Two very different saloon cars are proving their worth in different policing roles. First a plug, no pun intended, for the cute i-MiEV electric car, which is currently on trail with the West Midlands force under the CABLED (Coventry And Birmingham Low Emissions Demonstrator) initiative. As the first pure electric car in the world, i-MiEV has attracted a lot of interest and more than a few positive reviews, especially since Mitsubishi showcased a fast charger system capable of recharging it to 80 percent ‘full’ in just 30 minutes.
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High profile Evo The fastest car in the Mitsubishi range is the Evo, and a number of forces have seen the merits of having such a high profile addition to their road policing fleet. One of its most fervent supporters is Inspector Simon Slack from the South Yorkshire road policing unit – the force successfully runs four Evos, with neighbouring forces borrowing them on numerous occasions for use as a high profile weapon in auto crime operations. The South Yorkshire Evos are ideally based for patrolling the M1 and the Sheffield conurbation. Inspector Slack explained how the cars patrol in a ‘pack’ of four – two of them are liveried, two are covert machines – and such is their acceleration and rally bred handling by virtue of permanent four wheel drive that it’s very rare to undertake a lengthy pursuit in urban traffic, although motorways can be a different matter. “We have been very pleased with just how effective an Evo can be as a road policing car,” said
Inspector Slack. “Its instant response in the hands of a trained driver can nip any trouble in the bud and even when pursuing a driver hell bent on escaping, its power and grip are invaluable.” It’s now seen as something of a badge of honour to be arrested by one of the Evo team and the cars’ tractability, instant response and all wheel drive means that slippery tram tracks, and the city’s hills pose no problem at speed. Inspector Slack added, “The extra edge the Evo gives means pursuits are shorter and ultimately safer. We don’t have to go for a gap on amber. Drivers simply hold back and then catch up in a pursuit.” Effective beyond doubt So successful has the force been that both North Yorkshire Police and Nottingham Police have used Evos in auto crime operations in Scarborough and Nottingham. “They do have a hard life and can be expensive to
Welfare Unit breathes new life into old appliance Avon Fire and Rescue Service’s (AFRS’s) Welfare Unit was introduced in May 2008 to supply modern welfare facilities to staff working on the incident ground. Since March 2009, the vehicle, which provides food, hot and cold water, and toilet facilities, has been mobilised to over 40 prolonged incidents – providing vital services to AFRS staff. Although AFRS has a Welfare Trailer, carrying hot water and basic refreshment facilities, the new unit provides toilet facilities for crews. Although often overlooked, not having toilet facilities for crews at a protracted incident can be a tricky issue. Not only is the concept revolutionary, but so too is the design. AFRS took a unique approach by recycling a frontline pumping appliance in Avon’s fleet into the new Welfare Unit. Not only did this provide cost efficiencies, but it also took into account environmental considerations. Appliance overhaul The overhaul of the 12-year old Renault appliance saw the rear section of the vehicle extended by 1.3m and replaced with a unit containing four toilets, washing facilities and a water heater. It was also fitted with a disabled toilet, a wheelchair lift and a power outlet – giving the former pumping
appliance a completely new lease of life. The additional features mean the vehicle can also be used at community events, as well as providing facilities for members of the public involved in large scale incidents. In fact, only recently the vehicle was called to a major incident on the M4 motorway – where a multiple vehicle road traffic collision saw the motorway closed for considerable time. In an effort to help all emergency services at the scene and stranded motorists, AFRS mobilised its Welfare Unit, to provide toilets and drinking water. Not only does the vehicle respond to emergency situations, AFRS has also used its Welfare Unit to benefit its efforts in the community to reduce arson through supporting the Probation Service’s work in using offenders to clean up areas blighted by fly tipping, vandalism and fire setting. With people on the Community Payback Scheme needing access to toilet and washing facilities in sight of their supervisor during the day, work in the outdoors is sometimes not an option for the Probation Service. As a result AFRS saw there were potential benefits to reducing arson by offering the use of the Welfare Unit during clean up days. It’s a partnership venture, which has been a huge success for both parties. www.avonfire.gov.uk
run,” added Inspector Slack who managed to empty half a tank of fuel in a three-figure speed pursuit along the M1. “But their effectiveness is beyond doubt and the fact we can rely on Mitsubishi for 24/7 back up is a real bonus.” One final testimonial reveals the reasons for Mitsubishi’s continuing popularity as the bestselling Japanese vehicles on active service in the UK. Sam Sloan, Fleet Manager for the Chiltern Transport Consortium, said, “The Mitsubishi 4x4 range is the mainstay of our operational fleet for a number of reasons, including whole life costs, 4x4 capabilities, reliability and the one stop shop service. They are used in a variety of roles and have proved to be more than up to the task, while Mitsubishi’s after sales service and support can only be described as superb.” www.mitsubishi-cars-co.uk
Author: Roger Blaxall, motoring correspondent
Compact cooler
Since Webasto was appointed as the sole and exclusive UK distributor for the respected Spheros product range earlier this year the portfolio of roofmounted air conditioning units available in the UK has constantly increased. The latest model on offer is the Spheros Compact Cooler model CC145, designed to bring exceptional levels of comfort to minibuses and van conversions in hot weather, thanks to a combination of high cooling performance and excellent air flow output. Modern design CC145 features a modern, ultra-low profile design (just 200mm high), for low weight and drag resulting in lower fuel consumption, and offers customers real benefits with regards to low operating and maintenance costs. There are two airflow variants to choose from, compatible with either lateral or central air ducting, the unit is suitable for either OE or retro-fitting, can be powered by 12V or 24V supply and is extremely simple and quick to install. Acclaimed mobile repair Bus companies and van conversion operators can purchase the complete Spheros product range from Webasto’s nationwide network of dealers, as well as being able to take advantage of Webasto’s acclaimed 24/7 mobile repair and maintenance service if required. www.webasto.co.uk
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Medical care in extrication rescue Within the context of vehicle extrication rescue, the need for an advanced level of care for entrapped patients is needed more than ever before. After a vehicle collision of significant force – as in the case of high-speed impact – it is likely that the occupants of the car, particularly the driver and front seat passenger, will be entrapped. Entrapment can be physical, mechanical or both. In other words, either the victim is entrapped by his injuries (physical) or by the fact that the vehicle has crumpled in such a way that it is not possible to get out of the wreckage (mechanical). Regardless of whether there is a physical or mechanical entrapment, there is very likely to be significant internal injury after a high-speed impact. It is this internal injury that can be worsened due to inappropriate handling and lack of good medical care during the extrication rescue process. Technical skills and advanced medical care The specialised discipline of extrication rescue is performed with varying degrees of efficiency across the globe. This type of technical rescue should not only be used when it is physically impossible to remove a patient. It should also be routinely used to make sure that the patient is not moved or
Good extrication tools and techniques are as important as good medical care.
Stronger vehicle constructions require the use of specialised rescue cutters.
handled in a way that could further compromise his or her already delicate medical condition. To reduce the negative effects from moving an entrapped victim specialised tools and techniques are needed. Techniques such as a side and roof removal help to ensure that the patient can be removed from the vehicle in an in-line movement to protect against aggravation of potentially dangerous spinal injuries. This technique is just one example of how simple procedures can significantly increase the possibility of full recovery from a motor vehicle collision. Research Research shows that a high percentage of deaths occurring in the pre-hospital stage can be avoided. Over and above this, many complications resulting in disability in the pre-hospital phase could also be avoided. Unfortunately, we can see a large difference between the likelihood of surviving the
pre-hospital stage in more developed countries as opposed to low and middle-income countries. Perhaps this can be attributed not only to the lack of emergency medical services in these countries, but also to the lack of expertise and equipment for the extrication of victims from their damaged vehicles. Another important consideration is the advent of new stronger vehicle constructions on the roads today. To deal with these modern vehicles, rescue tool manufacturers constantly have to develop stronger tools (especially cutters). Another challenge with new car technology is the paradox of safety versus accessibility. In other words, the very construction that makes it possible for a driver to survive the impact of a collision may well be the reason why it is impossible for a rescuer to free the entrapped person when working with old, out of date rescue equipment. www.holmatro.com
Yorkshire’s emergency services go green Yorkshire’s emergency services are doing their bit for the environment by teaching their frontline staff a new eco-friendly way of driving. At an event held on 30 June 2010 at Elvington Airfield, near York, and hosted by Yorkshire Ambulance Service, police, fire and rescue, army and ambulance personnel were taught how to improve their driving skills through economical and environmental driving techniques as well as finding out how to improve their miles per gallon, get further on a tank of fuel and save money. Putting their new skills into practice, participants then took part in an eco-driving challenge using vehicles fitted with telemetry systems to show the fuel-efficiency of their driving habits and the impact on the environment. Several car manufacturers, bicycle suppliers and other ‘green’ companies also showcased their ecofriendly technologies at the event. www.yas.nhs.uk
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Maximise your fleet by taking Kitting out the advantage of commercial services conversion As emergency services face tough decisions to economise on their operations, bott, the vehicle enhancement specialist, is highlighting how organisations can still continue to expand their fleet by taking advantage of commercial services.
SOCO vehicle.
Despite cuts to emergency services’ budgets, organisations are still being required to expand their fleets with new vehicles or upgrade existing ones to respond to the changing requirements of their operations. This pressure means there has never been a greater need to find ways to convert vehicles on a reduced budget, while still ensuring they meet stringent quality and safety standards. Where possible, vehicle conversions should also be designed to be adaptable, so they will continue to be of use even if the usage requirements of the vehicle changes. This will help to ensure they deliver a greater return on investment and minimises disruption to the organisation, which can happen when vehicles are out of action. Kevin Woodward, Managing Director of the Vehicle Enhancement Division at bott, explains, “In our experience, we find that cost and quality are the
Operations unit.
most important factors when it comes to vehicle enhancement projects within the emergency services. In recognition of this we take a very thorough seven-step approach to each project – from consultation, design and manufacture through to installation, logistics, support and recycling. “Having worked with numerous organisations up and down the UK, we know that no two projects are ever the same and quite often a vehicle has to perform a number of different roles, so to ensure successful functionality requires an originalthinking approach. To achieve the very best solutions, organisations can benefit from accessing this type of offer, which may be seen as more commercial than the traditional route of vehicle enhancement projects, but can deliver uncompromising results. When the solution is right, organisations can benefit from optimised efficiency and operations and make better use of available resources.” Commitment to product durability With more than 35 years’ experience, bott has worked with numerous emergency services including Lothian and Borders, West Sussex, Lomond mountain rescue and Cheshire Constabulary, providing an array of tailor-made, compliant solutions. In addition, bott features as a key supplier on the Buying Solutions Framework agreements and is a member of Firebuy. The company’s attention to detail ensures that all vehicle designs comply with rigorous safety requirements and legislation including the Health and Safety Act and the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Code of Practice – safety on loads of vehicles. Safety is integral to bott’s designs and its commitment to product durability means customers benefit from a long-term investment. In fact, the company routinely crash-tests its products and installations to ensure they exceed industry standards. www.bott-group.com See us on Stand VZ5
Command unit.
specialists
Auto Umbau Limited is an engineering company that specialises in designing, integrating and modifying new systems, both electrical and mechanical, into unregistered and registered vehicles. The company was formed by engineers and managers with many years’ experience working in the original equipment automotive sector, and 13 years of experience directly working in the emergency services market sector. This ensures the modification does not adversely effect the original type approval and, more importantly, the active and passive safety systems within the vehicle. The company’s core business is to supply kits with fitting instructions, user guides and technical manuals, to conversion companies or directly to end user workshops. This will ensure that each vehicle converted by a different technician is the same, takes less time to modify and is more reliable once in service. This is especially useful to network dealers, or for vehicles that would otherwise incur additional transportation costs. Fitting standard kits that have been optioned to your requirements is the most cost-effective way to put your vehicle on the road, as it utilises your labour more effectively, and increases product knowledge within your own workshops. New vehicles modified by Auto Umbau Limited are covered by a parts and labour warranty, for the same length of time as the original vehicle supplier. If the new vehicle is modified by another converter the parts are warranted for the same length of time as the original vehicle supplier (Auto Umbau Limited terms of warranty apply). autoumbaultd.com
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Two Mercedes-Benz Sprinters with two very different roles South coast Mercedes-Benz dealer Pentagon Commercials has joined forces with emergency services conversion specialist Kinetic Ambulanz Mobile (KAM) to bring a new concept in ambulances to the UK. The aerodynamically designed unit is based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and offers several major benefits over traditional ambulances, including: competitive pricing – achieved because the starting point is a standard panel van rather than a chassis cab, so the conversion typically requires less bodywork than a conventional ambulance; internal cleanliness – interior panels and all major fixtures and fittings are formed from moulded ABS plastic, the absence of joints making cleaning and disinfection much easier; and fuel-efficiency – the exterior body conversion, including the blue light clusters, is shaped to reduce wind resistance, thereby cutting fuel consumption. This in turn means the vehicle offers lower operating costs and has a reduced impact on the environment.
This new concept design is based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 316CDI.
The new design is by leading German ambulance manufacturer Ambulanz Mobile GmbH, whose designers spent time testing their aerodynamic bodywork in the wind tunnel facility at MercedesBenz headquarters, Stuttgart. Based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 316CDI, the first demonstration vehicle is currently touring the country and creating quite a stir among NHS trusts and private sector operators, some of which has already ordered units. The first two are about to be delivered to Guernsey Fire and Rescue Service, after senior officers saw a prototype vehicle at
The Sprinter 313CDI Long serves as a mobile command and control centre for the Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team (SSART).
The Emergency Services Show in Stoneleigh, late last year. David Brophy, Managing Director of KAM, said, “Given the budgetary constraints facing operators in the current climate, and the need to minimise carbon emissions, a well-built, fuel-efficient ambulance that offers lower operating costs is ideal for both NHS trusts and private ambulance companies. Along with its outstanding ‘green’ credentials, low running costs and competitive price, it offers ambulance operators in Britain a highly attractive alternative package.” Search team uncovers new 4x4 Search and rescue volunteers in Staffordshire turned up a great find in the shape of a new 4x4 Mercedes-Benz van. The Sprinter 313CDI Long serves as a mobile command and control centre for the Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team (SSART). Paid for with a £50,000 grant from the National Lottery, the van was supplied by Stoke-on-Trent dealer Enza and converted for the role by VCL, of Crewe. SSART is a registered charity and part of an umbrella group, the Association of Lowland Search & Rescue (ALSAR). It has 60 volunteer members,
all of whom undergo training and are qualified to carry out searches. They provide a missing persons search and rescue service to Staffordshire Police, as well as 4x4 logistics and transportation support to West Midlands Ambulance Service and the Staffordshire Civil Contingencies Unit. The new van’s high-visibility livery clearly identifies it as ‘fit for purpose’, while a large awning that projects from one side of the vehicle significantly increases the under cover area available. Inside, a fully equipped communications station allows members of the team to keep in touch with colleagues via radio and track their progress using a satellite GPS system. The on-board generator also provides the power to produce hot drinks and food during incidents, while the large storage area at the rear is used to carry a stretcher and throw lines, as well as first aid and other equipment. Although many searches are conducted in urban and residential areas, the team are also deployed to rural and outlying areas such as the Staffordshire Moorlands or Cannock Chase, hence their need for a vehicle with off-road capability – the new van has replaced an aging Land Rover. www.staffssearchandrescue.org www.ambulanz-mobile.de
Vehicle livery showcase at NAPFM 3M, the diversified technology company, will be highlighting what can be achieved using its range of vehicle markings at this year’s NAPFM conference and exhibition from 7-8 September. The company will be using the event to showcase its high performance Diamond Grade DG3 reflective sheeting with assured seal which is being used by emergency services fleets across the UK. The showpiece of the stand will be a VW Beetle with full police livery. The VW Beetle, sponsored by 3M for the Fun Cup endurance racing series, has competed in motor racing events across the UK and Europe, including
the longest race in the world – Spa 25 hours. Police livery was chosen to be eye catching and demonstrates the endurance of the 3M products. 3M converter, Bluelite Graphics, which works with many of the UK’s emergency services, applied the livery to the racing car. For more information about 3M Traffic Safety Systems visit stands 67 and 68 at the NAPFM exhibition where technical experts will be offering advice and information on industry best practices and will be available to answer questions. www.3M.co.uk/traffic The 3M sponsored VW Beetle.
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Bespoke built community contact vehicles enter service When Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service needed a community contact vehicle it seemed a natural choice to go to FAME Commercials to design and build a unit to take out on the road and into the heart of the community. Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Community Contact Point (CCP) was opened in Portsmouth in 2008 after the closure of Copnor fire station. Further developments of this project saw a vision to take that resource right into the heart of the community, with the establishment of a mobile operating unit in the Portsmouth area. And what better way to do it than with a bespoke-built vehicle, which can double as a community outreach vehicle and incident control post as required. Chief Officer John Bonney, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, said, “The Community Contact Point provided a hub for fire and rescue operations in the Portsmouth area and a base for Community Link, Youth Support and Community Safety Officers. By introducing mobile contact points, supported by teams to help reduce the risk of fires and other emergencies, we are able to meet members of local communities face-to-face and address areas of developing risk on a geographical basis. This is a real community asset, that we can share with others to help deal with local problems.”
FAME has converted a Ford Transit panel van to act as a smaller community outreach unit (right) for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Multi-purpose There was need for the available space to be multi-purpose – as well as being a community contact point there may be a need to use it as an incident command vehicle. With over 20 years’ experience in the building and design of these specialist vehicles, FAME Commercials seemed the obvious choice to design and build it. Based on a Citroën Relay cab and using FAME patented geodetic space frame chassis, the vehicle has a lift up flap side with detachable awning sides and front. This all but doubles the size of the unit without needing to upgrade to an HGV licence or drive and store a large and cumbersome vehicle. The vehicle also boasts a kitchen and toilet for staff comfort as well as a smart screen, television screen, three control posts with cabling for computers and
The Hampshire vehicle also boasts a smart screen, television screen, three control posts with cabling for computers and a satellite link back to service headquarters.
a satellite link back to service headquarters. In addition to the Portsmouth vehicle, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service plans to introduce community contact points in Southampton and Basingstoke in April 2011 and will consider introducing community contact points in other areas of the county in the future.
Are you or your team responsible for regulations, directives or best practise? The NPIA Automotive and Equipment Section (AES) is offering a one-day workshop for staff responsible for: equipment purchase, installation design and installation commissioning, to be held on Wednesday 17 November 2010 at the section’s facilities in Carterton, Oxfordshire. The workshop will offer practical and technical information to assist staff with their decisionmaking with the following subjects considered: Airwave – the technology and how it works; current regulations and European directives; installation – best practise and assessment with regard to Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC); antennas – how they work and how they are tested; and new technology – in vehicles. The workshop, costing £300 per person, will include practical examples of testing procedures and classroom demonstrations of common issues. To secure your place, please contact Jim Mathieson, Head of AES, on e-mail: jim.mathieson@npia.pnn.police.uk or Tel: 07887 821 392. www.npia.police.uk
Outreach unit For Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, alongside its larger custom-built vehicle, FAME has converted a Ford Transit panel van to act as a smaller community outreach unit. Fitted to run on battery power with a TV screen, laptop point, seating and an awning for weather protection, this stand-alone unit has been designed to complement the community outreach vehicle, by mirroring its colour scheme and layout where possible. Chief Fire Officer Martyn Emberson said, “The community outreach vehicle will be a great asset for the county. It offers absolutely vital technology that enables us to communicate with groups of people anywhere in the community, and will maintain our endeavour in promoting home fire safety in rural parts of our county. The vehicle can also be used as part of our prevention activity, for example when we work with schools on fire safety, and will also be a useful tool with regard to warning and informing the public in the event of an emergency.” “FAME Commercials pride themselves on their quality of workmanship, and with close negotiations between us and the end user we are able to design a vehicle that matches and often exceeds their needs and expectations,” says Jennie Bussandri, Managing Director of FAME Commercials. “Our geodetic space frame chassis gives an incredibly low step in height so there’s no need for an expensive and heavy wheelchair lift and flights of steps.” A selection of FAME Vehicles including the converted Ford Transit will be on display at the NAPFM Conference and Exhibition at the East of England Show Ground from 7-8 September 2010. www.fame-vehicle.co.uk
As well a community contact point, Hampshire’s vehicle can be used as an incident command vehicle.
Vehicle installations – new technology, new challenges
See us on Stand OS11
Driving simulator for Lincolnshire Police
Lincolnshire’s Life Skills Academy has selected a driving simulator from Surbiton-based XPI Simulation to supplement its civilian and emergency services driving courses. The Life Skills Academy offers a range of courses to improve driving skills within the region. In particular, it covers young and novice drivers, offending motorists and skid control. The XPDS simulator will have a real car located in the centre of 360° projected images. The quality of the images and sound effects convince the driver that he is on a real road as he carries out a number of exercises. A unique feature of this simulator is that it can operate in two modes. The first comprises a large number of important road safety lessons but an advanced mode will be available for expert drivers, such as police and other emergency service drivers. The advanced mode will present much more difficult and unpredictable scenarios using artificial intelligence to control the other cars: and that includes all the frustrating and unexpected responses blue light drivers are likely to encounter. www.xpisimulation.com
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Pick Up Systems announces collaboration with Chambrelan reels, pump units, kit stowage facilities and water tanks that can carry up to 600 litres. “No other vehicle converter offered a bespoke kit stowage solution,” adds John. “We saw an opportunity to support brigades by fitting everything needed by frontline firefighters. Our stowage systems carry up to 1.7m utility draws that can be used to carry everything from hoses to standpipes, through to heavy cutters and spreaders. Pick Up Systems has developed a rapid intervention vehicle that can be converted to the These draws come fitted with a safety specifications of the end user. locking device that has a 100% extension that can carry a slide test weight of 90kg Since the launch of the UK arm of the Frenchand a push button release handle, which can be based sliding system manufacturer, Chambrelan, earlier this year, a number of major vehicle builders operated easily and safely by gloved hands.” across various sectors have adopted the company’s Stowage heavy-duty slides across their fleets. In terms of stowage, the type of kit and the One of the most prestigious companies is Pick Up environment it is used in meant only the strongest System’, renowned for its ability to convert Toyota Hilux vehicles for frontline services. Originally Pick and most durable components needed to be used and, in this respect, Pick Up Systems needed a Up Systems started fitting secure tool storage supplier of heavy duty slides that would be able to systems for the international fire and utilities offer the ‘quick response’ access needed in markets, but due to an increase in demand and the emergency crews. “Chambrelan is an end-to-end change in approach by brigades, Pick Up Systems manufacturer and because of this they can has developed a rapid intervention vehicle that can guarantee the design spec in terms of quality be converted to the specifications of the end user. assurance, cost and delivery,” says John. “Chambrelan also express their load ratings not by Faster response a point at which it become difficult or dangerous to John Mcgauley, Managing Director of Pick Up operate the slides, but by a point at which the slides Systems, explains, “Fire and rescue services are under load reach a specified deflection. This can be changing their approach. Roughly 80% of all call expressed as a percentage deflection of the closed outs don’t need to be handled by large fire vehicles, length when at full extension, which has been our conversions mean brigades can respond faster essential in calculating the right slide for the right and more efficiently and use less manpower to application. We have found that it’s not just a tackle emergency situations.” question of supporting a static load, we also needed Pick Up Systems offers a number of options for to be sure that the slides work in transit and its clients, from developing fibreglass frames that operational circumstances.” offer all round access, to fully upgraded vehicles that can carry 3.5t of essential equipment, like hose www.chambrelan.com
Kevlar® vehicle armour
The new Kevlar ACV flexible vehicle armour solution.
DuPont has announced the launch of its new thermoplastic vehicle armour solution, Kevlar® ACV (Advanced Composites for Vehicles). The new innovation from DuPont, launched at the Eurosatory trade show on 16 June, is an extension to its Kevlar® product range and has been designed for the protective vehicle market. The development of this new product has primarily focused on incorporating optimum ballistic properties to ensure maximum protection as well as durability.
The Kevlar® ACV has been developed to be fully compliant with material standards for use in vehicles requiring thermal stability up to 120ºC while not compromising the ballistic efficiency for use by the private sector as well as the military. DuPont has developed the solution and will work with manufacturers to produce lightweight ballistic protective elements. The Kevlar® ACV combines various DuPont proprietary technologies including nano-material sciences, to bring a durable protection with high weight efficiency and multithreat capability. The new Kevlar® ACV is designed for vehicle applications with a focus on durability, ease of implementation and environmental friendliness as well as ballistic protection efficiency against multithreats such as bullets and fragments. www.dpp-europe.com
Handheld siren amplifier The Compact Controller 8 from RSG Engineering Ltd is a handheld siren amplifier designed for single or twin 100W speaker use with full hazard warning lighting control via the handset which also acts as a microphone (noise cancelling). Use the mini ‘DIP’ switches and pre-printed durable, peel ‘n’ stick button legends for extremely easy set-up and eliminate the hassle of defining software parameters on a laptop. Control box The control box can either be wired into the ignition switch or to a dedicated on/off switch within the vehicle. The control box houses the siren unit that can either be set in 100W mode using one 100W speaker or 200W mode by using two 100W speakers; there is even a 40W setting. It has up to seven high current (10Amp) switching devices (relays) together with the logic control for setting up positive and negative triggers. Mode of operation can easily be achieved by simply setting the mini ‘DIP’ switches on the side of the control unit to the appropriate position. Radio and siren volume settings are adjusted via the control box.
Handset The handset has a noise-cancelling microphone for PA use and push button override in all modes. The microphone volume is controlled via the handset. Five central buttons are dedicated to the primary operating modes of the siren, three buttons at the top of the handset are dedicated to primary lighting functions and four buttons at the bottom, one of which is dual function, for auxiliary lighting or other devices. If required, some buttons have a progressive switch function to allow multiple uses. The handset buttons have a green backlight when not in use which turns red when in use. The handset is supplied complete with pop-out button plates and over 250 pre-printed legends – simply snap the button plate out of the retaining frame, add a legend of your choice and pop into place. The siren can be activated by using the handsfree (HF) button. When this is pressed the siren is turned ‘on’ but goes into standby mode where no audio sound is produced, and the vehicle horn is disconnected (optional). www.rsg-ontop.com
See us on Stand 120
Emergency Services Times August 2010
See us on Stand 42
38 | COMPANY PROFILE
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Premier Hazard shows the way forward Premier Hazard has been designing and supplying products to the global emergency services vehicles market for nearly 30 years. Based in East Yorkshire, at the seaside town of Bridlington, it is very much a British company that has grown into a market leader in the design and build of vehicle lightbars, auxiliary lighting, sirens and other associated equipment and services that are part of the every day lives of people within the emergency services industry. Sharing a large site in north east England with sister company Britax Pmg who manufacture automotive lighting, mirrors and other equipment for the freight, construction and agricultural markets, the company employs more than 200 people within the site, along with many other people who work within their associated supplier and service companies in the locality. Within the operations at Bridlington there are a number of 3D CAD stations in every day use, along with qualified and experienced engineers able to design and deliver the latest competitive and dependable products. Being the only UK manufacturing company in the lightbar industry with ‘in-house’ testing and specialised evaluation equipment, including environmental, vibration testing and photometric measurement equipment and expertise, it should be no surprise to learn that many authorities and companies from within the UK, Europe and other countries rely on Premier Hazard products. All sizes, all colours One of the key points and clear differentiators with Premier Hazard’s lightbars is the availability of ‘all the sizes in all the colours!’ There are very few vehicles that cannot be matched exactly to the size of lightbar that they need. Regulations defining suitable lighting configurations, light output, noise levels and other criteria have become ever more demanding and precise in relation to use on emergency services and other specialist vehicles. The latest ECE Reg65 certification for strength, uniformity, longevity and 360º coverage of light output for lightbars and beacons has been clearly understood within the group. Premier Hazard has developed a range of products that meet such specifications, with them
having been tested by independent testing laboratories and fully evaluated and certified accordingly. This is not ‘self-certification’, or a ‘complies with’ scenario – this reflects the most stringent independent testing to ensure that the product meets or exceeds the respective standards. Premier Hazard is a company within the PSE International group, a US$180m turnover multi national organisation with its corporate headquarters in the UK. Other companies within
the group include: Code3, Kustom Signal, Britax Pmg Ltd, Britax Automotive Equipment Pty Ltd, Britax Signalisation Ltd (France), Britax Autozubehor (Germany) and PSV Wipers. Over the past three years PSE has opened its own sourcing offices in Asia so as to enable the sourcing of quality components while also ensuring the ongoing consistency of product operating tolerances and supplier service levels. To date it has proved to be the correct process within a complex and ever changing world of global supply. There are many smaller companies that trade on a variety of products from different parts of the world. Premier Hazard develops, sources and manufactures the majority of all its products sold, working with ‘partner suppliers’ on all key components. New product developments With an established range of lightbars that fit all applications, Premier Hazard has become recognised as the main supplier of such equipment for many UK and other European end-users, many of these being police and other emergency service providers. All lighting technologies are available, including the acclaimed Premier rotator, xenon strobe and linear strobe lighting and a wide range of top quality LED options. More recently the TrafficMax™ lightbar that incorporates PriZm 2™ LED lighting has offered an excellent quality option for ‘top end’ vehicles that need a slimline, high output lightweight lightbar. Due to its total inclusion within a clear,
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mounted camera systems, and offering a full 360º rotate and tilt mechanism, it means that there is the opportunity for less holes and structural damage to vehicles when fitting; it is invariably lighter in weight and more aerodynamic, and is less expensive. With zoom facilities of 20:1, and built in heaters and fan, it has been designed for use in varying climates. Other offerings within CCTV applications include DVR systems, some offering the unique ‘SMAC-M’ technology that allows up to five channels of transmission simultaneously, incorporating sound and vision with compression speeds of up to 25 frames per second, via 3G or other transmission means. There is also a wide range of peripheral products including latest camera models that have some great new features; all tried and tested!
strong and durable polycarbonate sealed lens, it does not suffer from the incursion and build up of water, dirt, grime and other elements of the demanding road usage that high performance, high mileage vehicles experience. This product is now widely used on a number of high performance vehicles. The latest innovation from PSE group is the revolutionary TriCore™ LED lighting technology – the brightest, most advanced LED lighting ever created! It took nearly two years of development and had an investment cost of US$2m. Since its market launch in the slimline Defender™ lightbar and also Ultimax and Midimax lightbars, this technology has shown the way forward in every respect. With a 7000 candela light output at peak intensity, it sets a new standard for top-end vehicle applications, and it constitutes a quantum leap forward in lighting signal brightness; far exceeding the intensity and quality of other systems. Most fleet managers have already switched
to using LED lighting, instead of halogen bulbs and xenon strobes, due to the additional benefits of longevity (100,000 hours+) meaning that vehicles are not off the road and incurring labour costs for bulb or strobe tube replacement. In addition, the lower power consumption means that vehicle electrical loading is at a fraction of the level of halogen lights, and any personal safety issues caused by the high voltages inherent in working with strobes are removed. CCTV systems The ‘dome camera lightbar’ has been appearing on police, local council applications and public authority vehicles. This product was designed to offer the integration of surveillance and image capturing from cameras that could be located in areas where there was the greatest visibility; on the roof of a vehicle, and as an integrated piece of equipment that fitted into vehicle lightbars. Somewhat less conspicuous than other roof-
Total solution Finally, there is the opportunity of Premier Hazard working with a number of key body builders to offer a total solution for supply and fit of vehicles for the emergency service end-user. With the resources of many fleet managers coming under additional pressure, there is the need to offer a wider ‘package’ that can take away the inevitable coordination and ‘progress chasing’ to get a vehicle fully prepared and available when and where it is needed. NAPFM Conference and Exhibition The team from Premier Hazard will be exhibiting at the NAPFM 2010 Exhibition and Conference at Peterborough in early September, and look forward to meeting all visitors who would like to come and join the team for a coffee in the company’s large marquee. Also Premier Hazard will be at The Emergency Services Show 2010 at Stoneleigh Park exhibition centre, near Coventry, from 24-25 November. www.premierhazard.co.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
See us on Stand 92
40 | CYCLE RESPONSE
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Cycling proficiency Bicycles have been with us for some time and we have used them in the police, military, ambulance and many other applications including the fire and rescue service very recently. The bicycle is such a simple tool and that is why it has been so successful, especially by bringing a closer approach to serve the public and with the cost effectiveness and the positive environmental and health impacts that all cycle duty has. Over the last 10 years there has been a number of different types of bicycles tried and used but the old saying ‘you get what you pay for’ or indeed ‘you thought you got what you paid for’ have haunted many organisations. There is a lot to know about bikes! You stand a good chance of operating a successful, sustainable operation if you can get these five areas right: 1. Cycle fleet 2. Maintenance schedules 3. Clothing 4. Training/selection 5. Replacement/retraining programme. So what we have learned in the 10 years since the launch of the modern day cycle responder? There are many imitations of what a true ‘bicycle workhorse’ should be, ie not any bike will do in the same way that not any motor vehicle would do either – it seems everyone is a bicycle expert, as most people have ridden one, however not everyone claims to be an expert on motor vehicles but we can drive them. Quality is difficult to assess as most items look the same and can be good copies of high quality components. Also big suppliers can brand anything to look good.
“The bicycle is a part of the organisational fleet not a gimmick – same fleet procedures should apply, ie fleet history, service scheduling and log book.” The bicycle is a part of the organisational fleet not a gimmick – same fleet procedures should apply, ie fleet history, service scheduling and log book. With any new vehicle or way of working brings with it new procedures and training – the same applies with the set up and maintenance of the bicycle and how we actually expect staff to perform their duties on them, ie ‘cycle patrol – respond’ and ‘training needs’. In 10 years no main manufacturer or supplier has provided us with the ‘bicycle workhorse’ we so need, as it has not been a big enough market until now. Over this time many teams have purpose built their own bikes and are really committed to making those success stories you hear of and have made many sacrifices and deals along the way by even buying their own bikes. Helmets off to them all!
Fit for purpose fleet and PPE The bespoke supplier Cycle Responder (www.cycleresponder.co.uk) launched 10 years ago in Emergency Services Times and is still the only bespoke supplier of the fleet ‘bicycle workhorse’ in the UK and will only build for the ‘emergency services’. By doing this, the company has been able to focus squarely on service needs. Cycle Responder is currently building and maintaining the fleets of bikes for the Metropolitan Police, City of London, St John Ambulance, London Ambulance Service
Cycle response has come a long way since 1906.
and the London Fire Brigade. Many organisations have had great success with their cycle teams all over the UK and internationally. The high profile community policing, tactical policing, military mobility, lifesaving ambulance response, coastguard inspection, search and rescue and fire arson prevention have some well-documented stories. All these applications and more can be achieved on the bicycle but procedures and the proper training must be in place as ‘workforce cyclists’ can be victims of serious road accidents and/ or injury. We must also provide them with the best tools possible for their safety and to mitigate this risk to the organisation. In addition to the results these units bring, they are also great role models and a positive presence on our roads to make them safer for everyone. Give the staff the correct clothing for cycling and they will stay mobile for longer and of course be comfortable. By correct clothing I mean using clothing designed and tested for riding bikes but specifically for emergency services. The manufacturer Endura (www.endura.co.uk) has spent time to ensure we have all bases covered in this area and has done for over six years. Key considerations Some key ‘cycle responder’ areas to consider for the duty bicycle: • Frame: high tensile strength aluminium alloy developed specifically for cycling, very stiff, fatigue resistant, corrosion resistant and non-shearing • Fork: a quality named brand Suspension Fork with 80 to 100mm travel and lockout function providing an energy efficient ride or indeed consider a stiff fork for city riding
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• Gearing: 27 to 24 speed Shimano Deore or XT level drivetrain for a reliable smooth gear shifting, consider a single front drive chainring if you not require the full range and don’t forget a good quality chain • Brakes: a quality named brand hydraulic/ mechanical disc brakes or v brakes for the city ride both must provide a consistent and powerful braking performance.
Other duty bicycle key areas include: response tested? Emergency services specific livery; virtually puncture-proof reflective side wall tyres; identifiable rear trunk bag with rack; front and rear lights; heavy duty grip pedals and bar ends; front mudguard; bottle cage; kickstand; fleet number and log book; and does the bicycle have full PDI (pre delivery inspection)? Cycle training Anyone can ride a bike – right? Well this may be, but compare this to motorcycle policing. You need a disciplined and simple approach to training and to be of a certified level of competency both in emergency services ‘cycle patrol’ and ‘cycle instructor’ training. The only training outfit to deliver this kind of certified intense and tactical training is Public Safety Cycling (PSC) (www.publicsafetycycling.co.uk) and it has been doing this for nearly 10 years. A great many services have received ‘cycle patrol’ and ‘cycle instructor’ training all around the UK. PSC as it is known has a dedicated training school in the City
of London with subsidised accommodation with instructor courses throughout the year. Public Safety Cycling has advised many organisations including ACPO on police cycling standards and is now recognised as the ‘emergency services cycling standard’. So potentially a lot of pitfalls for such a simple tool so here’s hoping that after the first 10 years of the modern ‘cycle patrol’ we spend the funds well and create sustainable teams and you don’t even have to worry about any carbon footprint! www.publicsafetycycling.co.uk
Author: Tom Lynch MBE, Public Safety Cycling See us on Stand E30
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10 years of London’s bicycle ambulance team The London Ambulance Service (LAS) cycle response unit is celebrating 10 years of treating patients in the capital. Originally piloted in July 2000 with a single cycle medic treating patients in the West End, the team has expanded over the last decade to a rota of over 100 staff covering the City of London, Hammersmith, Shepherd’s Bush, Kensington, Notting Hill, Bloomsbury, St Pancras, Canary Wharf, all five terminals at Heathrow Airport and at large-scale outdoor events. Over the years cycle response unit (CRU) staff have treated around 50,000 patients and travelled over 400,000 miles on duty: equivalent to more than 16 times round the circumference of Earth. CRU Operations Manager Tom Lynch MBE, who came up with the idea 10 years ago and was the first cycle medic, said, “It’s great to see that all the hard work we’ve put in over the last decade has meant more and more patients are receiving emergency medical care more quickly. What started out as an idea to reach patients faster in central London traffic is now attending thousands of 999 emergency calls a year. We get interest from all over the world, as other big cities want to use our model too. “While the equipment, training and bicycles have evolved over the years the basic purpose of cycle responders remains the same: getting life-saving care to patients as quickly as possible.”
LAS trials a Cycle Response Unit in July 2000.
In 10 years the cycle response unit (CRU) staff have treated around 50,000 patients and travelled over 400,000 miles on duty.
patient doesn’t need to be taken to hospital, the cycle responder can cancel a double-crewed ambulance to be made available for other patients. In the last 10 years the team has saved over 20,000 ambulance journeys, equal to £300,000 of fuel and 400 tonnes of CO2.
currently use mountain bikes to patrol around Weymouth, which are staffed by police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). The CRU will also work closely with Weymouth Street Pastors, a group of volunteers who offer help and guidance to members of the public at weekends.
999 pedal power Similar units already exist in various locations around the UK, including Leeds, York, Salisbury and Brighton. The scheme has also operated successfully for South Western Ambulance Service in previous years, and it is hoped that, following a monitoring of progress of this year’s activity, the project will be rolled out as a permanent resource every summer. With Weymouth-based Paramedic Matt Care in the saddle, the use of the mountain bike contributes as an additional resource in the crowded town centre, harbour and seafront areas. Weymouth’s CRU will benefit from regularly working in a multi-agency approach. Dorset Police
The Cycle Response Unit scheme operates successfully in Weymouth over the Summer months.
All bicycles carry the same essential life-saving equipment as normal ambulances, but can reach patients even faster in congested areas and the unique environment of Heathrow Airport. If a
www.londonambulance.nhs.uk www.swast.nhs.uk
See us on Stand A3
Cycle patrol tackles problems of deliberate fires An innovative scheme to tackle the problem of deliberate fire setting sees Teesside firefighters using bikes as part of Arson Cycle Patrols. In recent weeks Coulby Newham firefighters have been out and about in the community on new Arson Cycle Patrols. The patrols started in an attempt to reduce the high level of deliberate grass and rubbish fires and other similar nuisance problems experienced during the school holidays. Andy Witham, Station Manager at Coulby Newham Fire Station, said, “As well as helping prevent both accidental and deliberate fires as we use the bikes to target hotspot areas, this is also an opportunity for the firefighters to work with our partners and increase their presence and visibility in and around the station area.
“The cycle patrols will give us the chance to meet up with residents in their own communities and discuss the issues that concern them. Being on bikes means that we are far more accessible and approachable for the public, and are in a great position to spot potential problems. Using bikes means we can also reach areas that are difficult to access in fire engines and also cut down on carbon emissions.” The cycles were funded by the Safer Middlesbrough Partnership as part of a multi-agency approach to the problems of deliberate fire setting and anti-social behaviour. www.clevelandfire.gov.uk
(From L to R) Danny Horsman and Eric Storrow of Cleveland Fire Brigade.
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CRASH card goes national The CRASH card scheme, backed by the East of England Ambulance Service and launched in Essex last May, had its national launch recently at the reknowned TT races on the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man ‘s Department of Health is backing the CRASH card scheme, an initiative that helps motorcyclists involved in an accident get the aid they need as quickly as possible. Members of the Ambulance Motorcycle Club came up with the idea of the card. Club chairman, paramedic and Essex biker Ian Burrell, said, “The card has been designed by serving paramedics who have been on both sides of an accident, as the injured rider or attending as medical help. If a biker is injured and unable to talk coherently because of concussion or having been knocked out, how does the ambulance crew find out who the patient is, what medication they take, or medical history? What information does the 999 call centre need?” The CRASH card, which sits inside the rider’s helmet, aims to prompt the rider to think about his or her own safety before getting on a bike, and also what to think about if they have a minor unscheduled stop and need medical help. One side of the card carries the mnemonic CRASH – Caution, Road, Accident, Serious and Help – for hints which will go on to assist the 999 call taker. The other side gives riders space to write their name, date of birth and medication, so when an ambulance crew arrives at the scene of a serious accident and identify an unconscious or seriously ill rider, they can check if the rider has a card by looking for a small green dot at the side of the visor. The card isn’t meant for a passer-by who stops to give aid at a scene – only experienced emergency personnel should ever remove a helmet following an accident.
An information letter is given to all riders with the card, instructing where to place the card and where to place the green dot. The Isle of Man’s Chief Ambulance Officer, Steve Sieling, said, “Sometimes getting vital life saving information is delayed due to either the level of consciousness of the injured riders or sometimes language barriers. This card can definitely be a lifesaver in providing immediate information on current medical conditions and medications being taken by the rider. “The card will also provide important contact details so that further information could be gained from friends and relatives. It’s a simple idea and as we often say it’s the simple ideas that are usually the best.” South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Trust (SECAmb) and the Highways Agency have joined forces to introduce the CRASH card in Kent and Sussex.
The card, funded by the Highways Agency, was handed out to motorcyclists at the annual motorcycle event, Margate Meltdown, held on Bank Holiday Monday, 31 May, and organised by the Ace Cafe, London. Cost-effective and simple Felicity Drewett, Area Safety Coordinator for the Highways Agency in Kent and Sussex, said, “Motorcyclists represent less than one percent of road users, but in terms of those killed or seriously injured road users, they account for 19 percent of the total number of casualties. The CRASH cards are a cost-effective, simple and effective way of letting paramedics know vital information. Anyone requiring a CRASH card should contact the Highways Agency Information Line on Tel: 08457 50 40 30. www.secamb.nhs.uk www.eastamb.nhs.uk
Brake launches online portal for road safety professionals Brake, the road safety charity, has launched a new website – www.roadsafetyforum.org – a ‘one stop shop’ for advice, information and resources for professionals working to promote road safety. The website is the new online home of the charity’s Road Safety Forum, and includes a wealth of information and resources for road safety professionals and others working to prevent road deaths and injuries. The site contains driver reports, including the results of attitudinal and behavioural surveys, details of professional development opportunities available through Brake, news bulletins, access to Brake’s Road Safety Library and fleet resources, and a range of e-guides providing online training on key topics such as working with the media. The site is open to all subscribers to Brake’s Road Safety Forum, a low-cost, not-for-profit service aimed at helping road safety professionals across the globe to adopt best practice. Subscription to the Road Safety Forum costs from just £40 +VAT per year and online subscription is available via the new website at www.roadsafetyforum.org. Caroline Perry, Marketing Manager at Brake,
says, “This new website provides road safety professionals with a valuable range of information and resources to help them in their work to reduce casualties on roads. We urge them to join our growing community of professionals, and share best practice with like-minded individuals and organisations from around the world.” Road to Recovery Conference From road crashes to drownings, from heart attacks to meningitis, from air disasters to terrorist attacks and deaths in war zones, sudden death tears apart families. If you work with families who have been bereaved by sudden death, then the Road to Recovery Conference, which takes place on Tuesday 2 November 2010 at the National Motorcycle Museum Conference Centre (close to Birmingham International train station), is a mustattend event. This event explores latest research and practitioner advice on care and support for these traumatically bereaved and vulnerable people. Confirmed speakers include the Child Death Helpline, discussing best practice and the role of helplines in supporting bereaved families, and Julie
Townsend, Campaigns Director at Brake, who will speak about the needs of families affected by major injuries, including road crash victims. The conference is a low-cost opportunity for Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and will cover a variety of topics including: immediate intervention support, the role of helplines in providing support, and best practice support in the workplace for professionals working with bereaved families. The conference is sponsored by Fentons, Irwin Mitchell, Lyons Davidson and Pannone solicitors, and coordinated by the Sudden Death Forum, a not-for-profit division of Brake. The forum promotes best practice care for people of all ages bereaved suddenly, through the dissemination of international research and best practice. Delegate fees are £110 +VAT for Sudden Death Forum subscribers and £130 +VAT for nonsubscribers. www.brake.org.uk www.roadsafetyforum.org
Emergency Services Times August 2010
See us on Stand E46
46 | ROAD SAFETY
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Staying Rad-safe on the roads
(From L to R) Police officer Martin Dunham; Charlie Harris, of the Environment Agency; Victoria Ashmore, of Shropshire Council; and Fire Officer Rob Corfield carry out radiation checks as part of a training exercise organised by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service is responsible for rescuing road crash victims in the county and would be called to transport accidents involving vehicles carrying radioactive materials. Emergency crews have been trained in how to deal with radiation incidents at a training event organised by the FRS. Fire officers called in the help of experts from the Government’s Health Protection Agency to teach first responders how to deal with any potential radiation leaks in Shropshire. “It was to give us more knowledge about dealing with what are very rare radiation situations. We went through the procedures on how to identify and measure sources of radiation and the methods to deal with any incidents,” said the service’s Training Manager Phil Clarke, who heads the training department at Telford Central Fire Station. “In Shropshire, organisations all work together on major incidents and it was useful to be offered the chance of training from the Health Protection Agency via this Radsafe awareness training course which was put on at no cost to us. It was a very successful multi-agency training day.” The event, held at Tweedale Fire Station in Telford, was attended by representatives from the fire and rescue service, police, Shropshire Council and the Environment Agency.
Free driving session attracts young drivers through Facebook
Free places were offered on the Xccelerate course via Facebook. It was staged at Kempston Fire Station and BLFRS Training Centre.
Bedford Borough Council, in conjunction with Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS), has developed Xccelerate, a comprehensive pre-driver training education programme. Over-confidence, poor hazard perception skills and general inexperience can all lead to making bad decisions and putting driver lives, or the lives of other road users or passengers, at risk. The Xccelerate scheme aims to try and tackle these issues, encouraging responsible attitudes and behaviour whether as a driver or passenger in any vehicle and is targeted at teenagers before they learn to drive. The course offers a selection of workshops including practical driving so young people can experience first hand what it is like to drive a car in safe, controlled surroundings with a professional driving instructor. Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service Northern Area Commander Tony Rogers said, “All too often our crews see at first hand the tragic consequences of road traffic collisions. In fact we rescue seven times as many people from road traffic incidents as we do from fires. A large number of these road accidents involve young drivers. One of our key priorities is working with young people to keep them safe, so we see this as a valuable project to support.”
www.radsafe.org.uk See us on Stand E19
www.bedsfire.com
Degree in road and vehicle safety launched A unique MSc programme focusing on road and vehicle safety has been launched by Loughborough University. The course will be led by the university’s Vehicle Safety Research Centre, part of the Ergonomics and Safety Research Institute (ESRI), and home to the largest crash investigation research group in the world.
The Road and Vehicle MSc programme, which commences in October 2010, is aimed at traffic safety practitioners who wish to extend and deepen their knowledge of this vast and expanding area of research. The course will cover the theory and practice behind the major casualty reduction techniques associated with passive and active
vehicle safety systems, road infrastructure, driver performance and road safety policy. For further information on the Road and Vehicle MSc programme or to apply, please e-mail esri@lboro.ac.uk. www.lboro.ac.uk
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Controlled Simplicity Any light bar
SLC12 Multi Control
Single wire option
Any switch box
Stirling Interface
Stirling products are manufactured in the UK and come with a 10 Year Guarantee
Atrium-Stand 58 Tel: 01702 300999 Fax: 01702 303039 e-mail: info@stirlingevp.com www.stirlingevp.com
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Firefighter Chris Jones completes initial training
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service held their latest pass out ceremony on 30 July at their training centre in Plympton. Recruits from Guernsey, Jersey and Royal Berkshire took part in the ceremony, and included Firefighter Chris Jones, nephew of Emergency Services Times publisher David Brown.
New president for BAWP
Quantitech instrument deal for air pollution incidents Quantitech has been awarded a £1m contract to provide air sampling and analysis equipment to the multi-agency Air Quality Cell (AQC), a team of technical experts that was established after the Buncefield explosion in 2005. The Air Quality in Major Incidents project was created to develop an air monitoring and modelling capability for major pollution incidents in England and Wales. Participants include the Environment Agency, the Health Protection Agency, Public Health Wales, the Met Office, the Health and Safety Laboratory, the Food Standards Agency and local authorities. Quantitech has supplied 18 sets of instrumentation, including Gasmet FTIR portable multi-gas analysers, TCR Tecora high volume Echo and low volume Delta air sampling equipment, as well as providing a thorough training programme covering instrument operation, maintenance, calibration and service. Portable monitoring equipment is
Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner, Cressida Dick, has been chosen as the new president of the British Association for Women in Policing (BAWP). She will take over from Julie Spence when she retires in September. AC Dick has over 26 years of policing experience, joining the Met in 1983 and progressing through the ranks as a constable, sergeant and inspector. After transferring to Thames Valley Police in 1995, she returned to the Met in 2001, joining the Specialist Crime Directorate with responsibility for organised and cross border crime. She also trained as a hostage negotiator and is currently the UK police lead for hostage negotiation. She was promoted to Assistant Commissioner for the Met’s Specialist Crime Directorate in 2009. Julie Spence commented, “As we enter into a new era for women in policing, I cannot think of a better person than Cressida to ensure women’s voices are heard and properly valued in the future.” www.bawp.org
The first female Chief Ambulance Officer has left her MBE medal to London Ambulance Service museum in her will. Audrey Finch, known as Peggy, died in April aged 96. She was awarded her MBE in 1955 for services to the residents of East Ham, after 10 years as Chief Ambulance Officer. During her career, she helped to develop a community transport scheme, known as ‘Dial a Ride’, which was adopted across London. www.londonambulance.nhs.uk
vital to the project’s success as they provide rapid response times that have been established by the project. In an incident, the emergency services will notify the Environment Agency within 30 minutes, who will then convene the AQC. Under the terms of the contract monitoring teams from one or more of eight locations and data will be provided to the AQC within two to six hours. www.quantitech.co.uk
Sector set to reap benefits of Babcock acquisition Babcock International’s acquisition of VT Group has now taken place, creating one of the largest and most focused engineering support services providers in the UK. The seamless transition of the enlarged group has seen business as usual for its customers within the emergency services sector. This includes maintaining and servicing the Metropolitan Police’s 3700 vehicles, Highways Agency’s 200 vehicles with a guaranteed level of availability; operating the regional fire and rescue training centres in Bristol and Cardiff; and managing the National Resilience Assurance Team’s (NRAT) fleet of 650 vehicles and equipment. Working in partnership with customers in the emergency services sector, Babcock delivers new and sustainable ways to deliver essential services that reduces costs of ownership, while allowing customers to focus on their core business. This covers asset provision, fleet management with guaranteed asset availability, facilities and equipment management and training. Austin Lewis, Babcock International’s Managing Director, Critical Assets,
In brief . . .
A paramedic from Greenwich has raised over £3000 for Help for Heroes by cycling 350 miles for the Battlefield Bike Ride 2010. Steve Berry, and 275 others, including ex-service men and women, set off from Portsmouth before crossing the Channel and touring the French battlefields of the first and second World Wars. The seven-day event raised nearly £1m overall. www.helpforheroes.org.uk
Twelve fire and rescue services from the south east of the UK have entered into a new framework agreement for personal protective equipment (PPE). Cosalt International will be supplying kit to Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, Isle of Wight, Oxfordshire, Royal Berkshire, Essex, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire and Luton fire and rescue services. Sean Bone-Knell, Assistant Director from Kent Fire and Rescue Service, who is leading the project, said, “The framework agreement is an excellent example of fire and rescue services working together, to provide a system that will ensure a standard set of PPE for firefighters across the region and reduce procurement costs.” www.cosalt.com
said, “Babcock’s broader capability is great news for our customers within the emergency services sector, particularly in the current economic climate. The level of resources and technical excellence across the organisation means that we can increase the scope and scale of our service delivery, whilst leveraging greater costs savings. We look forward to passing these benefits directly to our customers as we manage their current needs, and help them plan for the future.” Babcock International will be showcasing its emergency services capability and partnering successes at The Emergency Services Show, being held at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry, from 24-25 November. www.babcock.co.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Lion Apparel Asia Pacific, part of the LHD Group, has been awarded the contract to supply personal protective equipment (PPE) to Hong Kong Fire Service Department (HKFSD), one of the world’s largest fire services. The fire fighting suit chosen by HKFSD contains a PBI® Matrix outer layer, which delivers the highest thermal protection and a GoreTex® moisture barrier which enables perspiration to escape and not cause heat build-up within the suit. The design is based on the V-force® suit which is ergonomically designed to minimise physical stress for firefighters. www.lhd-group.com
Northamptonshire Police has appointed Andy Frost as its new Assistant Chief Constable. Andy joins from Bedfordshire Police and will take over from Derek Talbot, who has retired after 11 years in the force’s chief officer team. www.northants.police.uk
52 | CONTRACTS & PEOPLE
In brief . . . South Central Ambulance Service NHS Trust has appointed Trevor Jones as Interim Chair of the Board. Trevor is a Non-Executive Director of South Central Strategic Health Authority and until 2007 held the post of Chairman of Thames Water International.
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Warwickshire FRS selects Bristol Uniforms for PPE needs
www.southcentralambulance.nhs.uk
Gloucestershire Constabulary has appointed Kevin Lambert as Assistant Chief Constable for Protective Services. Kevin, who is currently Acting ACC at Northumbria Police, takes over the role from Steve Ackland. Kevin spent most of his policing career in Gloucestershire, so he says he is ‘delighted’ to be returning to the force. Kevin was awarded an MBE for services to Policing in 2006. www.gloucestershire.police.uk
A police inspector from Blackburn, a leading expert in human rights legislation, has been helping to educate police and council chiefs in Azerbaijan in a bid to help them become human rights compliant. Inspector Gary Crowe, from Eastern Division’s Operations Support Unit, was one of four experts to be invited to present by the Council of Europe. He delivered a presentation about practical policing issues relating to freedom of assembly and electoral campaigns in front of 25 high-ranking police and council officers. www.lancashire.police.uk
Jim Owen has been chosen as the new Deputy County Fire Officer for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. Jim was previously Assistant County Fire Officer for Fire Safety, a post he held since December 2008. He also represents the northwest fire and rescue services on the Chief Fire Officers’ Association’s National Fire Safety Committee.
(From L to R) Councillor Richard Hobbs, Portfolio Holder for Fire & Rescue; Roger Startin, Joint Managing Director of Bristol Uniforms; CFO Graeme Smith, Warwickshire FRS; and Martin Fraser, Firebuy. Foreground is FF Jo Carter and at the rear is FF John McConnachie of Leamington Spa Green Watch, modelling the PPE.
Bristol Uniforms is the new supplier of personal protective equipment (PPE) for Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, a deal done as part of the national Integrated Clothing Project (ICP). Clothing from four bidders was rigorously tested by 16 male and female firefighters over two, four-week periods for heat stress, durability, ease of movement and comfort. Bristol, which supplies uniforms for around 40% of the UK’s fire and rescue ser-
www.sepura.com www.warwickshire.police.uk
Northgate Public Services has acquired Concorde Informatics’ CARM Police Duty Management System. CARM, which is used by more UK police forces than any other resource management system, enables forces to manage their complex shift patterns, allowing them to ensure the right staff coverage to deliver responsive policing to the public at the right time. The system helps forces to deliver more effective policing using their available resources by rostering staff by skills and availability, monitoring shift patterns and overtime management. Colin Meakin, Chief Executive of Concorde Informatics, said, “Northgate Public Services is a leader in public safety solutions, and is ideally placed to further develop the solution and integrate it with its overall service offering. The sale of CARM will allow us to concentrate on developing our nationwide managed IT and security services portfolio.” www.concordeinf.com www.northgate-ispublicservices.com
New CFO appointed for Fife
www.bristoluniforms.com
St John adopts SMS service to improve response times
www.manchesterfire.gov.uk
Following competitive user trials and technical evaluations, Warwickshire Police has selected Sepura STP8038 TETRA hand-portable radios to replace its existing Airwave terminals. Arqiva, Warwickshire Police’s managed service provider, selected the new radios for their water, dust and impact resistance. The force will also benefit from the large, highresolution screen; the range of applications and the introduction of data transfer, which can assist with the search for a missing person, or confirming the identity of drivers against the DVLA database if necessary.
vices, was chosen because the designs took into account the needs of modern firefighters, who can be expected to take part in urban search and rescue. Rather than firefighters being issued two sets of uniform, the new contract sees the supplier carry out maintenance of the kit, hiring out equipment to fire and rescue services when necessary. This saves the service money, and stops kit from being wasted.
Shift change for Northgate
St John Ambulance has selected a web-based SMS solution from Text Messaging Centre, enabling the organisation to contact its volunteers quickly in the event of an emergency. Using this messaging service has seen a significant reduction in time spent calling volunteers to find out their
availability, and has prompted quicker response rates from the volunteers who receive the messages. St John Ambulance will also be using the ‘Campaign’ feature, designed specifically for organisations like St John Ambulance for the recruitment of temporary staff, offering them the ability to fill positions in an instant with minimal input. It works by managing volunteers into groups on the basis of their response given. For example, a message will be sent out saying ‘reply YES if you are available to attend an event this evening’. When the required number of ‘yes’ responses has been met, others are collated in a reserve group, which can be used if last minute replacements are needed. This also allows St John Ambulance to group their volunteers by qualification and training so they can easily contact the necessary people – a useful time saving feature in incidents when a quick response is vital. www.sja.org.uk www.tmcsms.com
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Neil McFarlane has taken up the post of Chief Fire Officer (CFO) for Fife Fire and Rescue Service. Neil, the service’s former Deputy Chief Fire Officer, takes over from Jimmy Campbell who has been appointed CFO of Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service. Neil has worked at Fife Fire and Rescue Service since 1982, progressing through the ranks and gaining lots of experience in several managerial posts for different departments. Ronnie Hinds, Chief Executive of Fife Council, said, “Neil is an excellent appointment as CFO for Fife. He has served Fife Fire and Rescue Service at every level from firefighter upwards and his dedication to the profession and to the area is unquestionable.” www.fifefire.gov.uk
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54 | PROFILE
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Changing times for sports ground safety The World Cup in South Africa may have been full of colour, glamour and excitement (apart from when England played!) but, behind the scenes, there were moments that no doubt caused concern to organisers and safety officials alike. And I’m not referring to that unceasing screech of vuvuzelas.
Police restrain fans prior to the warm-up match between North Korea and Nigeria in Johannesburg, South Africa, 6 June, 2010
Initially, worries were raised before the tournament even began when more than a dozen local football supporters wishing to attend a friendly match between Nigeria and North Korea, and a police officer, were injured in a stampede in Tembisa. With just days to go before one of the world’s great sporting spectaculars was due to begin the incident provoked the question once more of South Africa’s preparedness. Thankfully, there was to be no repetition of the incident during the competition proper. But just four days after the opening fixture came news of stewards demonstrating, fighting with police and refusing to work due to a pay dispute. The BBC reported that the police had taken charge at stadia in Port Elizabeth, Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg. Then, of course, there was the infamous visit to the England dressing room by a supporter following his country’s goalless draw with Algeria. Thousands of miles away, these events fell quickly from the headlines but one wonders how different the reaction would have been had they occurred in the UK, particularly in such quick succession. Working side by side This year two significant anniversaries in British football disasters have been marked. Remarkably, it is already 21 years since the Hillsborough disaster while 11 May represented the 25th anniversary of the Bradford City fire. The shift in standards, qualifications, culture and expectation has been huge. So, too, has been the move from a police-controlled event to a venuemanaged solution. Such was the police domination of football matches that when control rooms were
first introduced during the 1980s club officials were often barred from entering them! Now the club safety officer and senior police officers work side by side and on many occasions club risk assessments determine whether or not the presence of officers inside stadia is even required. The club safety officer was born as a direct consequence of the Hillsborough disaster. One of Lord Justice Taylor’s key recommendations was that each club employ a suitably competent official whose sole match day responsibility should be the safety of the crowd. But what represents competency? Who is suitable for the role? Where do you find a club safety officer? Back in the late 1980s and 90s there was no defined test or benchmark for competency and suitability. More often than not the incumbent would have been known to the club, frequently someone who had recently retired from the police service. The role of safety officer is still largely a second career profession with former senior police officers still forming the bulk of post holders. There is nothing particularly wrong with that and although it is a minority view, there are those, who believe that only former senior police officers should be considered as suitable. Courses and qualifications While the fundamental responsibility of crowd safety and spectator management remains unchanged the standards required in achieving that goal have altered significantly. The Football Safety Officers Association introduced its own competency benchmark qualification in 2002, a voluntary course but one that over 200 candidates successfully completed.
Frank Augstein/AP/Press Association Images
The course was the forerunner to a Level 4 spectator management qualification, which is now compulsory for all sports ground safety officers and nominated deputies. Increased levels of measured competency have brought significant changes to crowd management operations. More are potentially in the pipeline. Although Statements of Intent defined the differing roles of safety officers and the police following Hillsborough, the levels of policing still remained high during the 1990s. Now those levels are substantially reduced, particularly inside stadia where many lower division matches are played ‘police free’. While each match day operation has always been a club responsibility, its content was generally defined by the appropriate local authority. Now continuing deregulation means that previously prescriptive plans, such as spectator medical provisions, have been replaced by more flexible and often much more appropriate, safety officer produced plans. Moving forward, there is now a growing desire in some quarters for clubs to be given the opportunity to write and take complete ownership of all safety certification. Complete consensus on that front is still some way off but illustrates most vividly the esteem in which the sports ground safety officer is now held at the very highest levels. www.fsoa.org.uk
Author: Chris Patzelt, General Secretary, Football Safety Officers’ Association
Emergency Services Times August 2010
See us on Stand F21
ESS 2010 | 55
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The Emergency Services Show 2010 – it’s free to attend! The Emergency Services Show 2010 preparations continue apace, with the event posed to be the best yet. Aimed at anyone involved in an emergency, the event will provide visitors with opportunities to network and improve relationships with other organisations and to learn how you can work together more effectively. The event will take place on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 November at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry. This annual show, sponsored by Community Resilience, is a unique event promoting multiagency collaboration by bringing together everyone in the UK involved in an emergency – a unique mix of commercial and non-commercial exhibitors, from the manufacturers who showcase their latest products to the emergency services who demonstrate how this equipment is actually used. Bigger and better The Emergency Services Show 2010 will provide access to more of the latest technology, ideas and initiatives focused on improving public safety and protecting the environment and the Critical National Infrastructure. The show will be especially relevant in light of the current uncertain political and economic climate, with opportunities to speak to contemporaries and exhibitors to help with framework agreements, income generation/ outsourcing and equipment requirements. All weather display area To reflect the importance and popularity of this event, exhibition space has been increased to meet demand. The new Hall 3 will incorporate the larger displays of specialist equipment and vehicles previously shown outside. Under cover and protected from the elements, exhibitors will show the latest products, innovations and services, including practical demonstrations. Emergency Response Zone Hall 2 includes the growing Blue Light Zone – which brings Police, Fire and Rescue and Ambulance services from around the UK together to showcase initiatives and share examples of best practice and the popular Emergency Response Zone – which is made up of other Category 1 and 2
responders, Professional, Government and Voluntary organisations, offering perfect networking opportunities to affiliated organisations. New for 2010, there will be a dedicated UK Search and Rescue (SAR) Zone featuring British Cave Rescue, Lowland Rescue, Maritime Incident Response Group (MIRG), MCA, Mountain Rescue England & Wales, RAF SAR and the RNLI.
Register online at www.ess2010.com Make every penny count HM Treasury’s Spending Review framework – the results of which will be announced on 20 October 2010 – will set out just how challenging the financial landscape will be for our public services in the coming years. The expected budget reductions will, in very real terms, mean less money for personnel and less money for essential equipment and services.
The challenge for all emergency services and their partner agencies will be to make every single penny of their budgets count. It will become more important than ever to be open to new ideas, to new ways of working and delivery, and to greater flexibility in providing services. More collaboration, cutting waste through greater transparency, sharing good practice and delivering value for money in procurement should become the prime focus as we work together towards a more streamlined sector. David Brown, Show Organiser, comments, “In these uncertain times it is more important than ever for all Category 1 and 2 Responders and associated agencies to talk together to enable them to share resources and make the most of their budgets. The Emergency Services Show offers the unique opportunity to meet with specialist suppliers to facilitate framework agreements and discuss new important innovations and products.” Engage with industry Just as our equipment suppliers are delivering improved kit, year after year, so too must emergency services buy smarter, work in tandem with industry – tell your suppliers what your operational needs are and work together towards the solution – collaborate with neighbouring services if it delivers savings. Both the industry and its suppliers will stand more chance of emerging stronger from the current financial restraints by working together. You can speak to over 350 leading suppliers of the latest protective clothing, vehicles, first response equipment, training courses and communications kit about making your budgets go further at The Emergency Services Show 2010. Come and see the suppliers offering money saving solutions to your operational needs – sign up today and join likeminded professionals at the UK’s only multi-agency event for emergency professionals. Registration is open so visit www.ess2010.com today. www.ess2010.com
Emergency Services Times August 2010
56 | ESS 2010
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ESS2010 Conference programme announced – register now for Early Bird discount The conference programme has been announced for The Emergency Services Show 2010, which takes place from 24-25 November at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry. As the UK’s only event for anyone involved in emergency planning, response or recovery, the supporting conference plays an important part bringing together like-minded professionals to discuss key issues and strategic developments within the industry. New this year, attendees will now also be able to claim Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points for attendance, demonstrating the value of this leading two-day conference, and, if you register before 1 October, an Early Bird discount of 25 percent is available. Olympic focus The first day of this year’s conference will have a special focus on the challenges posed by the forthcoming 2012 Olympics. Featured speakers will include Peter Thorpe, Head of Olympic Planning, London Ambulance Service, and Jim Monks, Chair of the UK FRS Olympic Planning Group, London Fire Brigade, who will be presenting a national perspective of the challenges posed by the 2012 Olympics. As part of a special overview looking at building relationships through training and interaction, there will be a number of presentations, including Chief Fire Officer Roy Wilsher, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, who will be speaking about Exercise Orion, an EU Civil Protection (EUCP) Mechanism exercise.
Day two of the conference will focus on resilience and the national critical infrastructure with high profile speakers including: Dr Dave Sloggett, Centre for Defence Studies, Kings College, London; Mike Granatt, Consultant to Community Resilience; Tony Owen, Head of Incident Management, Environment Agency; alongside Mark Leigh from the Emergency Planning College. Cabinet Office workshops The Cabinet Office will also be hosting a series of focused workshops entitled ‘Improving the Resilience of the Critical Infrastructure’. David Murphy, Assistant Director of the Natural Hazards Team, Cabinet Office, will discuss the consultation on the draft National Resilience Plan for Critical Infrastructure and lead the sessions, with each covering a specific topic on resilience.
Register now for 25 percent Early Bird discount Registration for the free to attend exhibition and two-day conference is now open. 2009 costs have been frozen for this year – Day 1 @ £195 + VAT, Day 2 @ £165+ VAT, Both days @ £290 + VAT. In addition, an Early Bird discount of 25 percent is available to everyone who books a conference place on or before the 1 October 2010 with an additional 10 percent discount available for members of Emergency Planning Society, IFE/FPA, The College of Paramedics, members of Local Resilience Forums and other charitable/voluntary organisations/students on application. Register now via the show’s website at www.ess2010.com/conference.html or visit for the full conference programme and to learn more about this not to be missed event. www.ess2010.com/conference.html
Community Resilience announces ‘Temporary Mortuaries: the practical aspects’ In March 2010 Community Resilience presented a one-day conference, Mass Fatalities: Compliance & Guidance. This event briefly looked at the law, guidance and good practice when establishing and running a temporary mortuary. It also briefly considered utility provision as well as the needs of relatives of the victims. During the two days of The Emergency Services Show 2010, running from 24-25 November, the non for profit organisation plans to look at some of these issues in more practical detail. This will be part one of a two-part forthcoming event programme, ‘Temporary Mortuaries: the practical aspects’. This event will be of particular interest to local authority emergency planning officers though other stakeholders may also gain from attendance. For those who are charged with establishing a temporary mortuary, particularly when managing mass fatalities in a temporary structure or within a pre-designated existing building, the practicalities can be very challenging. Has all been done to ensure the chosen site is suitable and appropriate for its planned use and what consideration has
been given to site recovery at the end of its use? How long does it typically take to have a temporary mortuary ‘up and running’? What are the needs of those who will work there? Where do the utility supplies come from if not already in place and what are the disposal options? Temporary mortuary replicated To address some of these issues Community Resilience plans to replicate part of a temporary mortuary at The Emergency Services Show 2010, with experts addressing these issues from inside the facility. Body storage provision will also be explored. From live and desktop exercises that have taken place the organisation hopes lessons learnt from those can be aired at this event so enabling others to benefit from them. Suppliers of some key equipment will be encouraged to participate too. In an attempt to be as flexible as possible to allow interested delegates the opportunity to attend the presentations will be the same on both days, therefore allowing some choice (subject to space availability) of which day to attend.
To register for further detailed information visit the Community Resilience website, Tel: 0845 465 2004 or e-mail the event organiser, Geoff Gubb, at geoff.gubb@communityresilience.cc If you have a specific area of concern around temporary mortuary planning that you would like to see this event address please e-mail Geoff Gubb at the address above. www.communityresilience.cc
Emergency Services Times August 2010
See us on Stand 274
Digital Photo Competition – win an iPad!
To celebrate 10 years since the launch of Emergency Services Times (EST) magazine, the publishers, who organise The Emergency Services Show, are running a competition to find The EST Digital Photograph of the Year 2010. The Brief: We’re looking for the digital photograph that best depicts multi-agency working between services and support agencies in the UK’s emergency sector, taken in 2010. The Prize: The winner will receive a 32GB Wi-Fi + 3G iPad (worth £600) and the winning image will be used as the cover shot for The Emergency Services Show 2010 Show Guide, 5000 copies of which are printed for visitors to the Stoneleigh Park event in November.
The Rules: The Deadline: Send your entries to the Editor, David Holden, by e-mail: davidholden@mmcpublications.co.uk Closing Date for entries: 1pm GMT on Friday 29th October 2010. The winning entrant will be presented with their iPad at The Emergency Services Show 2010 on 24 November at Stoneleigh Park. Good luck!
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
No age limit to entrants Competition is open to professional and amateur photographers alike. The photograph must have been taken after 31st December 2009. We will only accept one entry per person. You must be the copyright owner and author of the photograph. You must supply your full name, location and date your entry was taken. All images must be high resolution (300dpi minimum) Entrants will retain all copyright for their image. Emergency Services (mmc) Limited will only use these images within its own publications and all images will be credited.
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CIVIL CONTINGENCIES | 59
Summer 2009: Ambulance Victoria’s Emergency Response Plan is ‘Visited by Hell and all its Fury’ In February 2009 an unprecedented heatwave struck the Australian State of Victoria. With temperatures in the range of 46°C for multiple days the effects were crippling on the community, with EMS providers and hospitals stretched to breaking point. Then, all across the state, wild fires began breaking out, ultimately resulting in almost 6000 firefighters being called into service. As the fires grew in intensity multiple factors came together to create a ‘perfect storm’ that eventually took the lives of over 180 victims. Since 2003, Ambulance Victoria (AV) has had a well-developed Emergency Response Plan (ERP), which has been under constant review. The plan has three key principles: protection of normal ‘000’ business, appropriate response to the incident and utilising the resources of the whole organisation. Key features of the plan include: defined levels of response, triggers for escalation, notification of key internal stakeholders and specifications for every key role throughout the organisation in response to a major incident.
Response Plan in addition to its application for these two sentinel events. We will outline the pre-event information that was available, how Ambulance Victoria prepared for each utilising its plan along with the outcomes of each event and the lessons learnt.
Special measures Ambulance Victoria implemented its Emergency Response Plan in preparation for the Victorian heatwave in January 2009. As a result, a range of special measures was put in place including extensive additional resources, changes to call taking and dispatch, increased staff welfare and media messages to the community. The organisation experienced a significant increase in workload and an increased rate of cardiac arrest calls. Of note was the poor outcomes reported for cardiac arrest patients, and the impact on the chronically ill.
“…while organisations must have plans, they also need to have the ability to adapt to the situation at hand.”
A fire truck is seen as a bushfire approaches the town of Labertouche, Victoria, Australia Mick Tsikas / Reuters
The Emergency Response Plan was also implemented in response to the catastrophic ‘Black Saturday’ bushfire event of February 2009. While a range of special measures were put in place, the long duration of the incident impacted heavily on resources, particularly management. Despite this impact, the organisation’s response performance was not impacted. Of note in the bushfire event, was the low number of time critical patients compared to the large number of low acuity, ‘primary care’ style patients and the need for specialist primary care plan. This article will outline the principles and key features of the Ambulance Victoria Emergency
Risks in Victoria The population of Victoria is approximately five million people, mainly centred around large urban areas. More than 70 percent reside in the greater Melbourne area. Victoria has a number of areas of risk that increase the likelihood of mass casualty incidents. These areas of risk include the transport industry, which transports large amounts of hazardous materials through the major population centres, and the hazardous materials manufacturing industry. Hazardous materials are manufactured very close to large residential areas and Ambulance Victoria has responded to a number of incidents over recent years that have highlighted the risk of these industries to the Victorian community. Melbourne is known as the ‘event’ capital of Australia, as such there is a risk that a terrorist attack may target an iconic Melbourne landmark or event. There is also a high
potential for major natural disasters. Bushfires over recent years have highlighted that Victoria is one of the most bushfire prone areas of the world with large numbers of people living within these areas. Flooding is also a major issue in the state, over the past decade a number of flooding incidents have caused significant issues for communities in the affected areas. Emergency Response Plan summary Ambulance Victoria (AV) has established an Emergency Response Plan that utilises a ‘whole of organisation’ approach, while coordinating with key external agencies and groups. Ambulance Victoria is the responsible authority for the provision of pre-hospital care and the coordination of medical treatment at the scene of an emergency occurring within Victoria consistent with the State Emergency Management Arrangements and the State Health Emergency Response Plan (SHERP). In addition, AV is responsible for providing initial and secondary transport for victims of major incidents to facilities charged with providing appropriate medical treatment. AV is also responsible for the transport of any medical teams from their place of origin to the incident site. There are a number of key concepts in the AV Emergency Response Plan: • Separation of incident management from normal business • Levels of response • Escalation process • Structured processes across the organisation. Incident management vs normal business The key concept of the AV Emergency Response Plan is to identify and separate the major incidents from normal business operations. This is to ensure effective management of incidents while minimising the impact on normal operations. Where necessary, AV will adopt a ‘whole of organisation’ approach in order to manage the incident appropriately. This is achieved by clearly defining the roles of the Duty Manager (DM) as resource managers for normal business operations and the Ambulance Emergency Operations Centre (AEOC) as incident managers. The DM will monitor incidents for triggers for escalation and use the ERP ‘Response Matrix’ to escalate the incident to the appropriate emergency
Emergency Services Times August 2010
60 | CIVIL CONTINGENCIES response plan level. This will trigger the notification of the appropriate managers to undertake risk assessments, management and coordination of the incident. The Emergency Management Act 1986 through the EMMV clearly defines the command, control and coordination structure within the state and the roles of each agency. SHERP provides a clear distinction in the roles of the various health agencies response to a major incident. AV plays an integral role in this plan as the delegated Health Commander. Inter agency communication and management is facilitated at various levels through an Emergency Management Team (EMT). Whole of agency communication and external agency communication is undertaken by the Ambulance Emergency Operations Centre (AEOC). Structured processes across all incidents Large mass casualty incidents are an infrequent occurrence; consequently any procedure required to manage these incidents should follow the same basic processes as smaller incidents. To effectively manage a large, mass casualty incident, processes and procedures need to be established and understood. This allows the on site manager(s) to focus on the efficient management of the incident, and clearly defines the activities and references for all incidents. Levels of response Identification and escalation of an incident is essential to ensure that appropriate activations and notifications occur. Once an incident has been escalated it determines certain actions that must be taken by AV. The level of escalation will also determine if the incident is coordinated at a regional or state level. The major variables that govern the type of response from AV include: • Time to respond to incident • The complexity of the incident • The number of patients. AV identified four levels of response, which are colour-coded and relate to the impact that these incidents have on the operations of AV and normal business.
Figure 1. AV Emergency Response Plan Levels of Escalation
Types of incident A key factor when determining the complexity of an incident is the incident type. AV has adopted a set of descriptors for types of incident, which are applicable to all hazards. They relate to the ability to access patients, the involvement of a control agency and the complexity of the response.
Figure 2. Descriptors for Incident Types
The AV Emergency Response Matrix The AV Emergency Response Matrix was originally developed as a tool for AV personnel to quickly assess the level of escalation required for all incidents. It utilises the three major variables relating to incident management. It has been found that the key determinant for escalation is the type of incident, depicted on the horizontal axis (Figure 3). Experiences gained since 2003 have shown that it is best to evaluate the type of incident starting from the worst case scenario and working down (as indicated by the arrow at the bottom of Figure 3). This has been a difficult process in which to educate the workforce as it was a significant change in culture. In order to accommodate regional and remote incidents, the factor of time needs to be considered concurrently with the type of incident. The highest level of escalation indicated by either of these two determinants should be adopted. The number of patients at an incident has been shown to be a poor indicator for escalation. While still important when determining the number of ambulance resources required, the type of incident and time factors are primary.
Figure 3. AV Emergency Response Matrix.
The AV Emergency Response Matrix has undergone both internal and external audit processes and there has been no recommendation for change for the past seven years. Minor changes have been undertaken around the education processes to cater for a state-wide response. January 2009 heatwave During the 2009 Victorian Heatwave, the AV Emergency Response Plan was escalated in preparation for the predicted hot weather. Heatwave is the silent killer impacting on the young, elderly and those with pre-existing illness. Being poor and socially isolated and urban living are key risk factors. There is reduced ability to physiologically deal with heat. The impact on infrastructure and concurrent events, ie bushfire, windstorms, make heatwaves one of the most dangerous weather-related events faced by communities. On 27 January 2009, Melbourne’s temperature climbed to 36°C, marking the first day of a short, intense heatwave. The top temperatures on the following three days in Melbourne were extreme, at 43.4, 44.4 and 45.1°C. Higher temperatures were reached in regional Victoria. Temperatures stayed high at night – on three consecutive nights the lowest temperature in Melbourne was 22.5°C. This high ambient overnight temperature is the cause of most of the exacerbation of illness and death as the body has limited time to recover (Figure 4).
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Figure 4. Minimum and maximum temperature range for Melbourne January-February 2009.
Weather forecasts had predicted the heatwave and AV responded, activating its AEOC. The ERP was escalated to an ‘Orange Response’ the day before. AV commenced rostering extra support staff and extra managers. Training was cancelled in order to free up additional personnel, extra emergency crews were rostered and more non-emergency contractors were made available. The number of communications staff on duty was increased, as was hospital liaison staff. Warning and informing AV also conducted a comprehensive pre-emptive media campaign, encouraging people to stay cool and hydrated, and look after vulnerable neighbours and friends. This was done because the extreme temperatures, with little relief at night, had implications particularly for the chronically ill and the elderly. With a likely increase in use of airconditioners, there was the potential for power blackouts due to supply shortages, exacerbating some medical conditions. Even this concentrated media campaign did not achieve the impact that was needed. It would seem that the community, in a hot country such as Australia, did not appreciate the danger. AV attended many people out running who had, in no way, changed what they would normally be doing. One of the main messages was to check on your neighbours, check on your elderly relatives.
Figure 5. Ambulance Victoria undertaking a media campaign during heatwave.
Although the service believed they were prepared, the heatwave put severe pressure on AV across the state, with a 50 percent increase in the daily emergency workload. In addition, there was a significant increase in non-emergency work, which continued for days afterwards. For patients the outcomes were not good – there was a fourfold increase in cardiac arrest patients, and survival rates fell. AV normally attends approximately 10 cardiac arrests per day with a resuscitation rate of over 50% to hospital, with over 20% leaving hospital. During the heatwave period AV were attending approximately 70 cardiac arrests per day with an extremely low resuscitation rate. These cases alone were resource hungry and predictably most were in the early morning period,
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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when most patients were found deceased or moribund. In the metropolitan region, communications were overloaded by the record demand, and the Referral Service, an ambulance initiative that began in 2003, played a significant role in dealing with callers. This service undertook triage of non-emergency callers. Experienced paramedics and nurses were able to talk to patients with low-acuity conditions and either refer them to other medical options, such as a GP or district nurse, or give them clinical advice over the phone. At some stages, up to 70 low-acuity cases were waiting for an ambulance although the majority were happy to wait when the circumstances were explained. Communications was also overloaded with callers seeking advice or other non-medical related issues. Staff wellbeing The busiest day was Friday 30 January, when paramedics state-wide responded to 1976 emergency dispatches. In the metropolitan area – where the temperature hit 44.4°C at 3:00pm – there was a record of 1456 emergency dispatches. This included 159 patients classified as suffering from heat exposure, where normally approximately 15 cases would be seen. While the event put a strain on the ability of AV to respond, such an event would have put a serious strain on any ambulance service worldwide. AV put in additional measures regarding staff wellbeing that included chilled water at hospitals and managers in the field actively checking on welfare. Preparation, including extra resources, meant AV was able to respond effectively to the unprecedented demand. Lessons learnt A lesson learnt from the experience is that management will be the first resource to be depleted. It was also found that escalation needed to occur more than 24 hours prior to impact. The ERP had been focused on incident management of short duration, without thought to the campaign environment. Media management and messaging is paramount to manage demand and prevention strategies. The impact is not apparent early, however it is severe when it hits and persists post event. A significant gap across the Victorian emergency services was that there was no designated control agency nominated for heatwave, nor integrated emergency management team for managing such an event. Heatwave impacts directly both on major infrastructure and community health and wellbeing. The two combined magnify the total impact on community safety. As a result of the lessons learnt AV have developed a Heatwave Subplan to the AV ERP. This internal plan bases its preparedness activities on warnings. There is a focus on staff availability/maximisation. Maximising logistical capability (fleet/equipment) and early preparedness and escalation. There remains a focus on demand management post the event, due to the latent demand. Black Saturday The week following the heatwave, as AV recovered from that strain on resources and attempted to restore normal operations, it was again advised of excessive temperatures for the weekend, and in
CIVIL CONTINGENCIES | 61 addition high northerly winds, which indicated a significant increased potential for bushfire. This resulted in the most horrific bushfires ever seen. The Black Saturday fires caused 173 deaths, and multiple injuries in all six AV regions. Significant blazes occurred throughout the state, affecting areas including Horsham, Kilmore, Marysville, Churchill, and Beechworth. The AV AEOC became the centre of AV’s bushfire response, operating on a 24-hour basis for over five weeks. On Saturday 7 February, as the full impact of the fires became clear, the AV ERP escalated to a ‘Red Response’. The incident was on an unprecedented scale. The fires were ferocious, like nothing ever seen before. The heat, the wind, the speed of the outbreaks threatened to overwhelm all emergency services early in the day. As fires started, AV established and dispatched ambulance strike teams to evacuate nursing homes in their path. In a short space of time AV was attempting to manage multiple fires across multiple regions across the state. From a multi-agency point of view, a significant issue for AV was the assignment of any health commanders within the logistics cell of the firebased incident management teams they attended. This led to significant blockers and delays in the provision of vital intelligence and safety information. The lack of information severely hampered the ambulance response. AV quickly realised that it needed to run its operations without good intelligence or assistance as the fire services were overwhelmed. State-wide response In the first few hours, the AEOC began coordinating the state-wide response to the fires, first dealing with acute patients, then those less acute. As was experienced the previous week during the heatwave, AV had to quickly adapt its thinking from incident management to campaign operations. This was achieved through the use of the Incident Control System as a methodology and sectoring the incidents, with designated incident managers for each operation. This involved setting up Casualty Clearing Posts, ensuring we had our paramedics and resources in the right place. This was hampered by conflicting reports of large number of casualties in a number of locations, which proved to be inaccurate. The information being received and acted upon in some cases was several hours old. This resulted in a large number of resources being sent to receive patients that never arrived, or may not have been there in the first place. AV transported a number of the acute patients by helicopter to the burns unit within a very short space of time from all over the state. From the post-event reports, it became clear that there were only a small number of severely injured patients managed on the first night, and a large number of minor injuries managed over the weeks that followed. In the following days, the response then shifted to providing primary health care to the local community: dispatching medical equipment, coordinating doctors, providing shelter and setting up medical clinics. While this was being undertaken, AV was still managing the acute phase in other areas where bushfires were still threatening towns. The ERP and the AEOC fulfilled their main aims
– managing incident workload separate to AV’s regular communications centres, allowing ‘normal business’ to continue unaffected. While AV was managing the bushfire response, there were still 800-900 cases per day across the metropolitan area and 500 across rural Victoria that were unrelated to the disaster. The ERP ensured those patients received appropriate care. The impact on service delivery was negligible compared to that experienced during the heatwave of the prior week. Surprisingly, ambulance response performance actually improved across the metropolitan region during the bushfire period. All of the regional managers, general managers, executive general managers and the CEO – everyone – participated to make sure the structure worked properly and, more importantly, the communications plans worked properly. It is a testament to AV that it had an Emergency Response Plan and an Ambulance Emergency Operations Centre. Despite the scale and complexity of this disaster, the plan gave AV a structure to work to – and the plan stood up to the test. Summary The AV Emergency Response Plan has been demonstrated to cater for the variety of incidents that impact on ambulance ability to deliver services since 2003. This is largely due to the incorporated triggers and escalation processes. The plan was significantly tested during both the January 2009 Heatwave and the Black Saturday Bushfire events. While the plan was found to provide a good framework for incident response and was demonstrated to minimise impact on normal ambulance operations, the lessons learnt from these campaign events is worth noting. Both events demonstrated the need to escalate the plan prior to the incident impact, based on the information available. The pre-hospital impact of the heatwave was on much greater scale than the following week’s tragic bushfires (Figure 6).
Figure 6. Melbourne Metropolitan Ambulance Caseload 2009 Heatwave vs Black Saturday.
The one key message from the experiences of Ambulance Victoria from the Summer of 2009 is that while organisations must have plans, they also need to have the ability to adapt to the situation at hand. www.ambulance.vic.gov.au
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Authors: Paul Holman ASM, Operations Manager Specialist Emergency Response Department, Ambulance Victoria (pictured) and Justin Dunlop CStJ, Manager – Emergency Management, Ambulance Victoria.
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Haiti: six months after the earthquake The Caribbean country of Haiti was struck by a devastating earthquake on 12 January 2010 which left 200,000 people dead and 1.3 million people displaced. Thousands of buildings collapsed and were damaged and surviving Haitians took to living on the streets and in internal displacement makeshift camps. The catastrophe pricked the conscience of the world and the British Red Cross Haiti Earthquake Appeal raised £9.8m to help support the survivors of the quake, including donations from Tesco, GlaxoSmithKline and BT Global. Immediately after the earthquake the Red Cross Movement began distributing life-saving relief such as blankets, mosquito nets, tarpaulins, kitchen sets and hygiene parcels along with the provision of water, emergency relief and health assistance. One survivor, mother of three, Choute Eloude, 33, remembers her lucky escape after being trapped in the rubble. She had been learning to read and was in school when the earthquake struck. “The school came crashing down on me and I was trapped underneath for an hour until I was pulled out,” she said. “They had to use a car jack to get the rubble off me and after they pulled me out they took me to the hospital. Thank god all my children were okay and my house was not destroyed. The Red Cross is now taking care of me very well.” Six months on from the earthquake the Red Cross Movement is still hard at work in Haiti helping Haitians to rebuild their lives. Key achievements to date include: 1000 to 2000 patients seen daily by Red Cross basic health care units/ mobile clinics; over 150,000 people vaccinated against measles, diphtheria and rubella; nearly 600,000 people have received emergency shelter material; over 950,000 non-shelter items, eg hygiene kits, kitchen sets, jerry cans, buckets, blankets, mosquito nets distributed to those in need; and the delivery of 2.4 million litres of water to 280,000 people – this amounts to 40 percent of all water distributed in the capital. Sanitation concerns A key concern for the British Red Cross six months on from the earthquake is continuing to raise awareness of sanitation and its importance in Haiti’s reconstruction. Without adequate sanitation the British Red Cross believes there is a risk of a secondary disaster waiting to happen in which people who have survived the earthquake could succumb to preventable waterborne diseases. The Red Cross Movement, led the by the Haitian Red Cross, has already provided basic sanitation to
Mirly Etienne receives clean drinking water from the French Red Cross in Camp Dihautsu, an internally displaced persons camp in Port-au-Prince (27 January 2010). Photo: Talia Frenkel/American Red Cross.
Earthquake in Haiti 2010, People collect water from the Red Cross water tank.
approximately 240,000 people in the form of toilets, hygiene promotion and clean water. But, according to a recent Red Cross Report, despite considerable achievements, at least half of the directly affected population in Haiti are yet to see any improvements in their sanitation and water situation.
The needs remain vast and it is expected that aid agencies like the British Red Cross will be operational in Haiti for years to come. In the report ‘From sustaining lives to sustainable solutions: the challenge of sanitation in Haiti’, the Red Cross states that humanitarian agencies running sanitation services for a prolonged period of time is not a sustainable solution and efforts must be made to support Haitian authorities to take over this role. Haiti is the only country in the world where access to improved sanitation has decreased in recent years: before the earthquake, only 17 percent of the population had access to a toilet. “Six months on, the Red Cross and other humanitarian agencies continues to provide a large proportion of water and sanitation services on behalf of the Haitian authorities,” said Alastair Burnett, British Red Cross Disaster Recovery Manager. “However, sanitation is a much broader urban reconstruction issue that falls outside the capacity and remit of humanitarian agencies. We are all
Photo: Jakob Dall/ IFRC
stretched to our capacity and are simply containing a critical situation, rather than solving it. We need to see the development of innovative, sustainable and appropriate technological systems that, dependent on the availability of land, will give large numbers of Haitian people safe and reliable sanitation for the years to come. “From this moment on sanitation must be integrated into wider plans to rebuild Haiti and long-term solutions must be found.” Needs remain vast The hurricane season is beginning within the region, which could result in poor weather conditions, which will further affect vulnerable households and communities who live in basic shelter. The hurricane season could also lead to the spread of waterborne diseases because of the lack of sanitation infrastructure. In preparation for Haiti’s hurricane season the International Federation of the Red Cross has established a disaster management operation centre and is prepositioning stocks in towns and cities across the country. The stocks include family emergency kits, shelter kits (rope and tools), 3000 family tents and 250 communal multipurpose tents. Unfortunately, for the survivors of Haiti’s earthquake, many of whom have lost loved ones as well as their homes, the needs remain vast and it is expected that aid agencies like the British Red Cross will be operational in Haiti for years to come. To donate to the British Red Cross Haiti Earthquake Appeal, contact: 0845 054 7200. http://tinyurl.com/brc-haiti
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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Exercise Milo: evaluating London’s health and emergency services response How would London’s health and emergency services react to an incident that not only involves mass casualties, a nasty chemical, but also injured patients with a variety of disabilities? This is what Exercise Milo, held by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) in conjunction with NHS London on behalf of the Department of Health, was set up to find out. Exercise Milo, held on 29 June 2010 in east London, was designed specifically to evaluate how fire and rescue, police, ambulance and hospital teams would react to hundreds of casualties, with a few unusual factors thrown in. The scenario centred on a collision of two minibuses with a lorry carrying acetic anhydride; a chemical which can cause burns, blisters, difficulty breathing and permanent damage if victims are not decontaminated as soon as possible. And another factor that was put into the exercise as part of the scenario; the majority of casualties were disabled athletes, on their way to an international sporting event for the disabled.
In total about 300 players, 96 casualty volunteers and 110 support staff were involved in the exercise. The scenario The exercise was divided between the incident site (at the ExCeL London conference centre) where the scripted collision and mass decontamination took place, and Homerton Hospital, where self-presenting casualties as well as casualties transported to the hospital from the incident site were scripted in to appear. Due to a limited timescale, scripts for casualties were
doubled up from the incident site and Homerton Hospital, to avoid casualties having to be transported in ambulances through rush-hour traffic in London. “As we had access to the hospital for the morning only, Exercise Milo did require a very early start from everyone, especially from the volunteer casualties. Make-up for them started at 5am! It is the dedication of our volunteers that have made all this possible.” Participants in the exercise included London Ambulance Service, Homerton Hospital, City and Hackney PCT, NHS London, London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police Service. In total about 300 players, 96 casualty volunteers and 110 support staff were involved in the exercise. Complex planning “Exercises of this nature and complexity require a large amount of planning, not just from ourselves, but also our core planning team, which includes the local emergency services, NHS and hospitals involved,” said Gillian Dacey, Exercise Manager. “For this to work on the day the logistics are quite complex to make sure everything came together, at the right time. We were running at two sites during this exercise, so we had to ensure appropriate linkage between the incident site and the hospital.” The aim of the exercise was to evaluate preparedness of health services in London for a large casualty incident, and Exercise Milo was set up to meet the specifications put forward by NHS London.
“Exercise Milo provided an excellent opportunity for London to rehearse its planned response to a major incident in the capital,” said Andy Wapling, Head of Emergency Preparedness, NHS London. “Nothing on this scale had been attempted before, with the rehearsed decontamination of both disabled and able bodied casualties including the emergency services and a large London Hospital. NHS London will be able to share the good practice and other lessons identified from the exercise across the NHS and with other partner agencies to continue to ensure that London is prepared.” A volunteer’s viewpoint Rosalinda Hardiman, who is a Collections Manager for the Portsmouth Museums and Records Service in real life, was one of the many disabled volunteers who gave up their time to portray a casualty during Exercise Milo. She is a wheelchair user, and was scripted to have a minor eye injury at Homerton Hospital. “I have never done anything like this,” she said. “I was fascinated to be part of it. I was very interested to see how this all worked, and the amount of organisation involved.” Rosalinda is also a former Paralympic athlete and represented Britain at the Atlanta and Sydney Olympic Games. She said, “Especially considering what happened in Atlanta in 1996, I have to say full marks for thinking of this and doing this two years in advance [of the Olympic Games in London], you have time to learn from it.” Lessons learned A report is currently being written about the findings and learning points identified during Exercise Milo. These findings will be used to enhance emergency response procedures to ensure the public gets the best service possible, and our health services are fully prepared for every eventuality. The Health Protection Agency delivers exercises and training, including desktop, command post and an annual field exercise, for health services in the UK. The agency also develops and delivers exercises and training to international customers including the WHO, EU and ECDC. www.hpa.org.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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British Red Cross leads the way in emergency response communications The British Red Cross responds to hundreds of emergencies in the UK every year, working in partnership with emergency services and local authorities to support their work in responding to crisis. Fully trained volunteers are on hand to give practical help and emotional support to those in need. The Red Cross recently launched The National Emergency Communications Programme to provide volunteers and staff with a national communications structure. Following involvement in a number of large-scale UK emergencies such as the London Bombings and flooding across areas of the UK, the Red Cross recognised that their ability to respond to such events was at times constrained by the lack of a uniform national communications system. There was also a reliance on certain forms of communication, such as mobile telephones, which may fail in emergency situations. The National Emergency Communications Programme will improve the ability of volunteers to support other emergency services during a wide-scale emergency. Sharing information “A coordinated emergency response relies on the ability to share information with the right people at the right time,” says Martin Huitson, Emergency Response Manager for Cumbria and the North East. The National Emergency Communications Programme aims to enable more effective communications between Red Cross emergency response teams from across the country, combining resources to mount a more effective response following a major incident; respond more effectively to routine emergencies and local incidents where additional resources are not required; and enable timely communication with key partners and Category 1 responders. Two of the key elements of this programme are Airwave and PageOne. The Red Cross has recently become one of the first voluntary organisations to be approved by Ofcom to use Airwave, the UK’s secure digital voice and data communications service. Airwave’s network can be used for telephony, voice radio and mobile data communications and enables the organisations critical to the country’s security to communicate with each other in a fast and reliable way. The Red Cross will now roll out the use of Airwave nationally following a successful pilot in three areas: Northern Scotland for the marine capability, the North East and Cumbria for an urban environment and Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and
Emergency Command and Control Unit for the North East and Cumbria, Britain – This vehicle is equipped with the latest communications work stations and IT equipment. Sharon Huitson, Services Manager, in the new ERU. Photographer: John Millard (BRC)
Emergency Command and Control Unit for the North East and Cumbria, Britain – This is the first vehicle of its kind in the UK and is designed to cope with complex needs, in emergencies at major events throughout the North East and Cumbria. David Ellis (ER) responding to an asthma attack at Blaydon Races, Newcastle. Photographer: John Millard (BRC)
Somerset as a geographically challenging rural area. A fire in County Durham gave the first opportunity to test Airwave in a live incident. As part of their response, Red Cross staff and volunteers set up a rest centre for the evacuation of people whose homes were close to the fire.
The National Emergency Communications Programme will improve the ability of volunteers to support other emergency services during a wide-scale emergency Judi Evans, Red Cross Operations Director for the North East and Cumbria, said, “Emergency response communications between the command and control room and operational personnel have always been challenging, but this time Airwave provided a reliable and consistent quality of communications to the incident site which would have been poor with conventional radios. Key personnel were all included in the same communications, giving assurance that there was
no information inconsistency.” Effective internal communication is also key. Following a successful pilot, the Red Cross is currently rolling out the use of services from PageOne, a commercial messaging company that provides resilient messaging capability. In an emergency, messages can be composed by way of templates or formatted messages and sent via a centralised call centre, Wap-enabled mobile phones or from an internet-enabled PC, to large groups or individuals. PageOne is accompanied by Pulse, a priority paging channel service dedicated to blue light emergencies. Pulse offers automatic routing and bandwidth control to provide priority to the delivery of emergency messaging in times of exceptional load, helping to maintain critical communications paths. The Red Cross provides vital assistance following major incidents, such as floods, and more personal emergencies, like transport accidents and house fires. It helps people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are and is part of a global voluntary network, responding to conflicts, natural disasters and individual emergencies. The Red Cross enables vulnerable people in the UK and abroad to prepare for and withstand emergencies in their own communities. And when the crisis is over, it helps them to recover and move on with their lives. www.redcross.org.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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Improving information sharing in major incidents using mobile devices and Novel infrastructure In major incidents information and communications technology (ICT) interoperability between blue light services is critical to achieving a coordinated and effective response. It is also important for this interoperability to be achieved quickly and effectively. adaptable and hence more resilient. Commercial developments in industry are very relevant, and we have identified a number of suppliers who have relatively mature solutions that can achieve this capability.
Prototype software development approach that provides the same software capability across different mobile devices.
First responders to major incidents can include a wide variety of organisations that bring different information management practices, policies and information sharing requirements. In some instances these practices may require considerable adjustment and liaison to work collectively. ICT, if used correctly, can play a significant role in addressing the information sharing challenge. Improvements to first responder ICT interoperability are currently ongoing with significant progress being made across Government. The National Resilience Extranet (NRE), for example, is a project sponsored by the Cabinet Office Civil Contingencies Secretariat, providing a means to share information across the first responder community to help prepare for emergency response. Project RADIANCE Through Project RADIANCE, the Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (Dstl), which is part of the Ministry of Defence, has been supporting the National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA) and the Cabinet Office in research into new technologies to improve first responder ICT interoperability and resilience for in-service deployment in 2015. Project RADIANCE consists of a series of year-long research initiatives focused on three areas: core information infrastructure, resilient communication networks, and future mobile device technology. These technology areas are interrelated and applicable to all types of first responder, be they mobile or at a fixed location.
(Photo: Dstl)
The first strand focuses on understanding the current approach to information sharing across the blue light services and identifying areas that can be improved. Information sharing is fundamental to a collaborative response, but it can be challenging to achieve. Complexities include silos of localised information, incompatible information transfer standards between organisations, and the need to share information efficiently and appropriately. Our findings show the types of information exchanged are numerous and complex. Alongside advice on ways information sharing can be improved, we have undertaken research that can help manage information once shared. We have demonstrated core information infrastructure that can present situational awareness information in different ways depending on the organisation concerned. Available technologies Our second area of interest is in determining what communications technologies can be used to enhance first response and improve the overall resilience of the communication network. Demand for new capabilities such as full motion video, live mapping, high resolution imagery, and audio streaming are growing, and this has a knock-on requirement in terms of communications technology. Standards-based mesh networking technology provides self-forming wireless networks with higher levels of bandwidth and adaptive routing characteristics that do not require existing civil communications infrastructure, making them
Use of mobile devices Our final area of research focuses on future mobile devices and anticipating how they can be best used to enhance effectiveness for any first responder, but primarily focused at the mobile first responder level. Our findings have shown that while first responders may have access to advanced technologies such as smart phones, some advanced capabilities (such as video creation) sometimes remain under utilised and access to such technology may be sporadic. Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) smart phones and similar devices provide an opportunity to capitalise on huge capability advances in display screens, interfaces and processing speeds being made within the consumer markets. Working with Durham University, Department of Computer Science, our research has provided an insight into techniques for designing user interfaces suitable for an operator working under stressful, lifethreatening circumstances. Mobile devices evolve quickly due to market pressures, and software platforms seldom remain static creating software development, deployment and maintenance concerns. The research team has demonstrated cross-compilation and web application prototypes and how it could help deliver a more cost effective approach to software procurement. The indications are that COTS mobile devices could be deployed cost-effectively, provided risks are managed. A great deal of technology is now emerging that can assist first response in major incidents. Through the careful combination of technologies and research, there is a great deal of innovation now possible to improve first responder ICT interoperability and deliver effective information sharing. www.dstl.gov.uk
Š Crown copyright 2010. Published with the permission of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory on behalf of the Controller of HMSO. Authors: Dr Richard E Gunstone and Ben P Weston, Information Management Department, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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The National Resilience Assurance Team – “proof of a cost-effective national service.” The work and scope of the National Resilience Assurance Team has grown from significant measures taken in recent times to strengthen civil and national resilience. Increasingly over the past decade, the world has witnessed the consequences of international terrorism, severe weather and other disasters such as major industrial accidents. In July 2001, the UK Government set up the Civil Contingencies Secretariat (CCS) in the Cabinet Office to address serious deficiencies in the civil protection response to flooding and a fuel crisis in 2000, followed by the outbreak of foot-andmouth disease in 2001. The aim was to ensure the UK’s resilience at all levels against disruptive challenge by working with other stakeholders to prepare for and prevent such crises where possible and, where not, to respond and recover. A New Dimension The coordinated terrorist attacks in the USA on 11 September 2001 marked a ‘new dimension’ in terrorism, which led to the New Dimension Programme (NDP) and a transformation in the way UK emergency services and agencies respond to large-scale emergencies. The NDP represents a significant part of the contribution of Communities and Local Government (CLG) and the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA) to the Government’s UK-wide Civil Contingencies Capabilities Programme.
The National Resilience Programme has provided the effective delivery of an extensive fleet of vehicles and national capability assets across the FRSs and continues to review them.
Fire and Rescue National Resilience A National Resilience Board (NRB) delivers strategic direction and leadership to the Fire and Rescue National Resilience Programme and comprises key representatives from CLG, the Local Government Association, CFOA and other stakeholders such as Babcock Critical Services (formerly VT Critical Services) and Firebuy Limited, responsible respectively for vehicle and equipment maintenance and their contract. This programme enables FRSs in England and Wales (while maintaining liaison with equivalent programmes in Scotland and Northern Ireland) to
strengthen response by augmenting existing local and specialist capabilities, based on nationally assessed risk and wider planning assumptions. It has provided the effective delivery of an extensive fleet of vehicles and national capability assets across the FRSs and continues to review them. The ‘capabilities’ – specialised vehicles and equipment, and trained FRS personnel in England and Wales – must remain fit to respond rapidly, efficiently and effectively to a range of large-scale incidents for use in: urban search and rescue; chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) mass decontamination; CBRN detection, identification and monitoring of unknown and potentially hazardous substances; high volume pumping; enhanced command and control support; training; and long-term capability management. Three central projects are vital to resilience operations and assurance: 1. The National Resilience Assurance Team (NRAT – see across) 2. The FireControl network of nine Regional Control Centres (RCCs) designed to improve the capability and resilience of the FRS’s control and mobilisation function in England 3. The Firelink radio communication network for installation in FRS vehicles and in the nine FireControl RCCs. New digital radios and data transfer equipment will enable FRSs to communicate on the same secure network. The NRAT role Through the work of the NRAT, CFOA (National Resilience) Limited provides annual operational assurance, technical advice and support to the Government and the FRSs in their delivery of national resilience.
In 2004, the Fire and Rescue Services Act reflected the wider remit of a modern fire and rescue service (FRS), placing duties upon it to respond to a variety of non-fire emergencies. The London bombings on 7 July 2005 and further transport and flooding incidents tested national resilience and multi-agency working arrangements. The Fire and Rescue Services Framework 200608 placed significant emphasis on promoting a coordinated response from fire and rescue authorities, service delivery at local and regional levels, and long-term management in partnership with CFOA. In 2009, the National Coordination and Advisory Framework (NCAF) set out the Government’s requirements for national coordination during incidents of national significance.
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The National Resilience Officer, Brian Ward, heads the team of nine coordinators and 12 deputies working in all English FRS regions, Wales and Northern Ireland, and the Business Centre ‘hub’ of 10 personnel with specialised roles based at the national Fire Service College in Gloucestershire. This ‘engine room’ of national resilience provides assurance through strategic direction; business management of national policies and procedures; partnership and multi-agency working; preparedness through high-quality centralised training; operational readiness reviews; and asset
refresh. Exercise planning, participation and evaluation of large-scale exercises such as Alpha Resilience in 2009 and the forthcoming multiagency international Exercise Orion in September 2010 are also key elements.
Yorkshire informs the duty officer and alerts the NRAT. Team members then support the FRS; liaise with other agencies at Bronze, Silver and Gold Command locations, CLG Emergency Room and FRSNCC; and also operate as enhanced command support officers at the Strategic Holding Areas where personnel and national assets assemble prior to attending the incident. The proactive, pragmatic approach of the FRS to saving lives, fire safety protection and enforcing fire safety legislation has rightly earned it an enviable reputation, and this is also due to its significant contribution to resilience and multi-agency working. The NRAT and FRS form a critical part of the national resilience infrastructure and UK roundthe-clock emergency response to catastrophic events. “Since taking over the assurance role from CLG some two and a half years ago, I believe that we have come a long way,” says Jon Hall, Deputy Chief Fire Officer of Gloucestershire and Chair of the NRB. “The outcome is that we have constant notification of a nationwide capability ready to roll and all this has been achieved at a cost less than the smallest FRS – proof of a cost-effective national service.” www.fireresilience.org.uk
Author: Jan Wassall, National Resilience Editor, Fire and Rescue National Resilience Assurance Team, The Fire Service College.
National operational cover A rota system ensures year-round 24/7 national operational cover in support of the fire and rescue service response to a national incident and assigns ‘on call’, ‘first recall’ or ‘off call’ duty to each team member. In the case of an incident, the FRS National Coordination Centre (FRSNCC) in West
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Critical Infrastructure Resilience Programme update Guided by Category 1 and 2 responders (and other infrastructure owners) and the findings of Sir Michael Pitt’s report on the 2007 floods, the Natural Hazards Team, part of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat, is preparing the National Resilience Plan for Critical Infrastructure. In the plan the team will aim to address the following key issues: understanding natural hazards; Government’s expectation for resilience standards; sharing of information on infrastructure assets; and understanding dependencies. Responses to Considerations for Economic Regulators On 22 March 2010, the Natural Hazards Team published the ‘Interim Guidance for the Economic Regulated Sectors’ and requested joint development of a response between industry, regulators and lead government departments. Responses were due for 31 July. To date 90% of the requested responses have been received with additional responses coming in from some major users of utilities above and beyond the original request. These are being reviewed and the information will be integrated into the National Resilience Plan. Following the formation of the Coalition
Government the Critical Infrastructure Resilience Programme will now report into the newly formed National Security Council. The Critical Infrastructure Programme Board and Steering Group remain in place to ensure the programme delivers the aims and objectives and to time. Information sharing As part of the National Resilience Plan the Natural Hazards Team has produced guidance on information sharing. This guidance has been developed in conjunction with Category 1 and 2 responders and builds upon current best practice by Local Resilience Forums and industry. In June, the Critical Infrastructure Resilience Programme’s Programme Board agreed this in principle. Since then, detailed discussions have been carried out with the Government’s Cross Sector Working Group to ensure that all concerns are being addressed and details are agreed. Utility Groups and LRFs in England are being approached to pilot the guidance during the autumn. There is also interest in Scotland and Wales. If you would like to be one of these pilots then please contact the team by e-mail: naturalhazards@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk In the coming months, the Natural Hazards Team
is working up the National Resilience Plan for Critical Infrastructure, and associated guidance, in order to publish the draft for consultation later in 2010. Throughout this period, the team will be holding a number of small meetings to discuss the detail of its thinking as it develops with those who may be affected by any chances. Subject to Ministerial approval, the draft National Resilience Plan for Critical Infrastructure will be published for consultation in November 2010. The consultation period will run for three months. During November and December the team will be happy to support discussions on the plan at LRF and RRF meetings, industry and other meetings on infrastructure. If you would like a member of the Natural Hazards Team to present or run a workshop on the National Resilience Plan for Critical Infrastructure at your meeting, please send details to naturalhazards@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk. www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/ukresilience.aspx
This information first appeared as part of the Critical Infrastructure Resilience Programme Summer 2010 Newsletter
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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National Resilience Extranet – enabling multi-agency collaboration across the UK The need to collaborate quickly and securely across multiple agencies operating in disparate locations and on different IT networks has existed for some time. The National Resilience Extranet now in Full Operating Capability (FOC) is the only accredited platform enabling this capability.
In reaching FOC, Christina Scott, Director of the Cabinet Office Civil Contingencies Secretariat, commented that, “The Ultra and BT commitment to deliver the NRE in partnership with our stakeholders has been admirable. During the NRE’s pilot period and throughout its Initial Operating Capability the NRE has demonstrated its ability to support the UK resilience community in collaborating effectively when planning for and responding to emergencies. As the NRE enters Full Operating Capability we anticipate that more members of the resilience community will join the NRE in the coming months and that the NRE will play a game-changing role at the centre of civil resilience for the foreseeable future.” What is the National Resilience Extranet (NRE)? The NRE is a fully managed secure and resilient browser-based collaborative working tool for Category 1 and 2 responders, Government agencies and other key organisations (public, private, voluntary and military) within the UK resilience community. The NRE has been developed to support multi-agency collaboration to enable the efficient and secure exchange of information during both routine planning and response to emergencies. Current Implementation of the NRE The number of NRE Users has grown by 98% since it achieved Initial Operating Capability (IOC) in May 2010, and has already proven to be a strategic civil resilience tool, having been used to support a number of recent high profile exercises
and incidents. At the time of writing this article over 1000 Users are using the NRE across the UK.
How does NRE improve UK Civil Resilience?
The Cabinet Office will be hosting a series of workshops on Thursday 25 November as part of The Emergency Services Show 2010 Conference, entitled, ‘Improving the Resilience of the Critical Infrastructure’. The workshops will be led by David Murphy, Assistant Director of the Natural Hazards Team, and will discuss the consultation on the draft National Resilience Plan for Critical Infrastructure. For further information about the workshop topics please visit www.ess2010.com/conference.html. application. Given that Ultra Electronics, The Cabinet Office and BT continue to respond enthusiastically to feedback, there is full confidence that the NRE and Atlas Collaborate will evolve over time under the management of the Change Advisory Board.” For more information If you are interested in subscribing to the NRE or require further details, this can be found at: www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/nre or alternatively by e-mailing: NREenquiries@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk or Ultra Electronics directly at NRE.marketing@ultra-ccs.com.
Following Exercise Vulcan, Mike Coward, EPO Cumbria Emergency Planning Unit, commented that, “The exercise verified that the essential functionality required to coordinate a multi-agency strategic response is within Atlas Collaborate, available on the NRE. It was agreed during debrief that Atlas Collaborate provides the functionality required to replace our existing bespoke software
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Author: John Harrison, NRE Project Manager, Cabinet Office Civil Contingencies Secretariat See us on Stand E37
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SERM workshop evaluates disaster management response in the EU The second workshop within the framework of the EU co-financed Project ‘European Support for Evacuation, Reception and Movement (SERM)’ took place in Karlstad, Sweden from 1-2 June 2010. It was attended by 53 participants from 27 countries, including four participants from EU and one representative of the UN. The main target of the workshop was to identify possible international cooperation and coordination possibilities. Due to the fact that evacuation and repatriation operations always will be a combined operation with several active partners, the project team (THW and MSB) proposed at an early stage to invite two participants from every participating state to this workshop – one coming from the civil protection authorities and one coming from the consular affairs authorities. To gain a better understanding of which agencies might be called upon in a disaster situation and which structures are already in place in the international disaster management environment, the project team invited different experts from EU and UN to present details on their already existing structures. We know from disasters such as the Tsunami and, most recently, in Haiti that a lot can be gained through more structured European cooperation in assisting EU citizens. The Swedish concept (The Swedish Response Team) could be used as a model for further development in this area.
The SERM workshop was attended by 53 participants from 27 countries, including four participants from EU and one representative of the UN.
Supporting Ministries After a very positive and motivating opening speech from Helena Lindberg, the General Director of MSB, the SERM Project Manager, Klaus Buchmüller (THW), gave a brief update on the project. He highlighted that no responsibilities of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs will be affected by the project, but that the clear aim is focused on the support for the Ministries, effectively the embassies during emergency situations. Due to this ‘service idea’ it was also underlined that this guidance document could lead to a better preparation regarding the identification of needs on the one hand and measures to be taken on the other hand, like a ‘toolbox’ for the Ministries. Recognised need for information sharing Already the results of the working groups on the last day of the workshop show that the need for international cooperation, especially information sharing, is seen by all participants. The detailed results are based on the multiple perspectives and vast experience of the participants of the workshop and are a very good basis for the continuing drafting of the concept. All remarks and recommendations on the draft of the concept made during the workshop will be analysed by the project team and be taken into consideration during further development of this non-binding concept on the support for consular assistance. From the very beginning there was a consensus between all participants – whether members of foreign ministries, the police or civil protection – that the use of the presented structures and also
Helena Lindberg, Generaldirector, MSB, and Klaus Buchmuller, Head of International Division THW.
the use of experiences of former operations in the sense of best practice would result into an improved modus operandi. How other participating states interpret a crisis situation and what action they are going to take (to a limited non-confidential extent) is useful to create a common understanding of the situation. For this reason, coordinated situation reports and a coordinated interpretation of the situation stretching beyond sector boundaries and levels of responsibility, nationally, within the EU, and internationally, are required. The expectations of the project team (THW and MSB) and the participants, with regard to the results, were met, due to a common understanding between the different partners and the use of existing structures and tools. www.msb.se
Author: Fredrika Lindholm, The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency Operations section and Deputy Project Manager - SERM
Resilience leads the way The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust resilience department won the Cabinet Office’s Innovation in Resilience award at the Emergency Planning Society awards, at a special ceremony held in Glasgow on 22 June. The accolade was presented to the service in honour of its great contribution to developing innovative thinking, turning new concepts into practical applications to build improved resilience. Bruce Mann, the former Head of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat, presented the award. Extremely proud Resilience managers Jackie King and Kevin Janney accepted the trophy on behalf of the trust. Head of Resilience and Emergency Planning Robert Flute said, “I am extremely proud of this
achievement. This was the first time a UK ambulance service has been selected as a finalist in these prestigious awards. The professionalism of the award submission and presentation team was highly commended by the judging panel. Resilience may be seen as a behind-the-scenes department, but this award proves that the trust is at the forefront of building and maintaining organisational resilience. Our training courses have now been accredited with national occupational standards for individual competency and our fleet of incident support units are seen as best practice.” www.eastamb.nhs.uk
(From L to R) Matthew Price, World Affairs Correspondent, BBC (Awards Host); Kathy Settle, Deputy Director, Local Response Capability, Civil Contingencies Secretariat, Cabinet Office (Awards Sponsor); and resilience managers Jackie King and Kevin Janney.
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WeKnowIt – collective intelligence To ensure effective decision-making within organisations responding to an emergency it is necessary to have accurate, complete and real-time information about the situation as it evolves. In small-scale emergencies, only a few organisations and people may be involved, typically local authorities such as the city council, police and fire and rescue service. During large-scale emergencies several hundred organisations, and thousands or even millions of individuals can be involved, as was the situation after the Tsunami in the Indian Ocean 2004. As emergencies increase in scale and geographic distribution, acquiring and maintaining situational awareness becomes both increasingly important and challenging; due to communication difficulties and the possibility of information overload. Real-time information With the advent of mobile devices and online social websites citizens are increasingly providing real-time information (text, images and video) directly from the site of incidents, either to friends or broadcast to the general public via new or traditional media outlets. This has been most visible during serious and large-scale incidents, such as the mass-shooting at Virginia Tech in 2007, where social networks quickly identified the 32 victims, or after the 2008 Sichuan and 2010 Haiti earthquake, where individuals provided a crucial source of information due to political or infrastructural constraints upon other channels. However such user-generated content (UGC) could also prove beneficial to the emergency organisations in less serious, smallerscale incidents, offering potentially useful information from the ‘eyes on the ground’.
Moreover, it is increasingly the case that, given the instant publishing capabilities of internet media, individuals expect to receive a constant flow of upto-date information and emergency organisations are expected to respond to this demand.
Potentially misleading While there are many differences in how the information is gathered and used by individual citizens and by the professional emergency organisations, both groups could benefit from sharing this information: emergency organisations will have more information, readily available, from different perspectives and citizens will have confirmed, reliable information, conveyed in realtime by the emergency organisations. However there are issues involved in utilising UGC within organisations, such as veracity, privacy, copyright, etc. Within informal communication the information can be subjective, ambiguous, speculative, or simply incorrect. The obvious danger in using such potentially misleading information is
that it may result in inappropriate resource allocation, endanger life and damage the reputation of an organisation. WeKnowIt is a European Research Project aimed at developing methodologies and tools which enable the synergistic combination of the collective intelligence from the communities involved in emergencies with the specific information generated by professional organisations, and providing appropriate means for both these parties to access this information. The project has developed tools to analyse UGC (text, images and speech) to extract relevant information (locations, times, people, topics), this information can then be aggregated to identify and describe potential incidents which can be further investigated and verified by emergency organisations. The ultimate aim of the project is to facilitate a scenario where situational awareness is developed in a cooperative way, allowing the professional organisations to manage, and trust, the mass of information coming from citizens and ensure, as far as possible, that the responders, and citizens, have the necessary information to make correct decisions. Over the next six months a series of evaluation exercises will examine the effectiveness of the WeKnowIt tools and techniques, if you would like further information please visit the website and if you are interested in participating in the evaluation please join the User Group. www.weknowit.eu
Author: Neil Ireson, Research Associate, University of Sheffield
Monitoring air quality in major incidents Since 1 April, there has been a national, multi-agency Air Quality Cell (AQC) advising on public health impact at the outset of major incidents. The aim of the AQC is to provide regular Sitreps advising Incident Command (Silver/Gold) on evacuation, sheltering, exposure and protecting those most at risk. The Air Quality Cell (AQC) operates 24/7 and virtually, calling on experts from across the country. It covers England and Wales, and is coordinated by the Environment Agency. Other partners include the Health Protection Agency, Food Standards Agency, Met Office and Health and Safety Laboratory. The Cell triggers are: a major incident where a Strategic or Tactical Multi-agency Coordination Group (Silver/Gold Group) has been set up; fire, explosion or chemical release; known hazards with the capability to monitor for them; significant public health risk; or if the duration of an incident is longer than six hours. The service has been activated for eight major incidents since April and as a result regular requests are received by the AQC to activate from the police and fire and rescue services. These services see the AQC as a valued resource in protecting local communities from exposure to hazardous materials. At the Mexborough tyre fire, in late June, residents from Frederick Street were evacuated for 48hours and the Air Quality Cell
provided evidence and advice on when it was safe for people to return home. Analysis and interpretation Typically the deployment involves two incident response teams with hand-held air quality monitors. These teams can be located at any nearby, down-wind sensitive receptors, eg schools, nursing homes, hospitals. A minimum of one hour’s data is collected and downloaded via 3G. Data is compared against the US Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGLs) and similar guides as part of the analysis and interpretation carried out by the AQC. The team can monitor for a range of parameters including particulates, chlorine, hydrogen sulphide and a range of other hazardous inorganics and organics. The cell also provides atmospheric dispersion modelling to forecast the movement of the plume in 3D; monitoring data collected from the ground is used to refine the modelling. The AQC is operational during the response phase of a major incident, usually for between one
to two days. Once the incident has stabilised, the cell then hands over to the Recovery Coordination Group, which is usually led by the local authority. Data and information is shared with the local authority and advice is given on monitoring contractors, if they do not have their own in-house capability. www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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SARbot™ – remotely saving lives Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service have been working with partners in the industrial sector to develop search and rescue equipment and techniques to rescue drowning victims from both the water surface and below without placing the rescuer in danger. The UK fire and rescue service has the ability to be on location in response to an emergency in under 10 minutes, however, they are unable to work below the water. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service approached SeaBotix Inc of San Diego, California to develop a solution to the more than 700 drownings per year. As a result, the company, in cooperation with industry leading companies Tritech International and Marine Simulation LLC, has developed the first specially designed, rapid response underwater rescue system. Until now remotely operated technology has been used to recover drowning victims, not rescue. Improved medical studies have shown that a person experiencing near drowning in water up to 21ºC has the potential for rescue. If the victim can be rescued from the water within approximately 90 minutes there is a good chance that the residual oxygen in their body will keep them alive without permanent damage to their vital organs. The problem has been locating and rescuing the victim in difficult conditions without furthering human risk. SeaBotix worked closely with Derbyshire FRS to develop a new ROV rescue system that would operate in near zero visibility, in poor weather and strong currents, while being simple enough to operate by rescue personnel. The result is a modified LBV system with high definition Tritech Gemini 720i imaging sonar, limb grasping manipulator, video enhancement and a small diameter, low drag tether with a 100kg working load. In addition, the advanced SARbot™ rescue system includes a new high resolution StarFish 990F side scan sonar from Tritech International and a purpose-built LBV training simulator by Marine Simulation.
The tether has 150m of range and provides the means of transfer for the large amount of data which is recorded from the SARbot™.
Side scan sonar The Starfish 990 is a side scan sonar with the ability to capture hundreds of metres of seafloor/riverbed on each side of the moving vessel. Sonar uses sound waves to ‘see’ underwater. Since they do not rely on the optics, sonar will work just as well in zero visibility rivers as they will in crystal clear water. The data produced by the side scan sonar produces real time images of the riverbed displaying all that lies there, from car tyres, cycle frames to sunken boats and human remains.
A screenshot of the Gemini Sonar.
The SARbot Search and Rescue ROV The rescue package comprises the SARbot™, which is equipped with its own multi-beam sonar to allow navigation in zero visibility, cameras that record the entire operation and the necessary tools to rescue the casualty. The tether has 150m of range and provides the means of transfer for the large amount of data which is recorded from the SARbot™. The tether is also strong enough to allow the crew to assist the SARbot™ by pulling once a casualty has been gripped. Although not entirely necessary this allows for the rapid extrication of the casualty.
Another important feature is the ability to map and record the depth and contour of the riverbed. Cruising along the water at about 1.5-2 knots the Starfish scans the water in high resolution and overlays the images onto maps such as Google Earth. The images produced picture everything on the riverbed allowing hazards to be indentified before an incident. As the images are overlaid onto electronic maps the application makes it ideal to load onto mobile data terminals to allow images of the hazards of the area to be viewed en route to or at an incident. Computer training simulator The rescue package also contains a fully configurable computer simulation programme allowing SARbot™ training on a variety of scenarios in a classroom environment. The instructor is able to set the scenario, visibility and the strength of current to provide challenging, realistic rescue situations for the student. The student benefits as the controls and operation are identical to that of the SARbot™.
Rapid response rescue The total package offers rescue teams a large-area search capability and built-in training in a rapid response rescue ROV. Field trials with Derbyshire FRS proved the ROV system can be setup and deployed in less than three minutes providing rescue personnel with time to locate the victim. The system was simplified to reduce technical aspects found in ROV systems requiring care or attention. This allows for rescue personnel to focus on rescue and not setup. A typical scenario is one where a person has consumed alcohol late at night and decides the nearby water looks inviting. Upon entering the water the person is shocked by the coldness and inhales water. This process leads to filling of the lungs and drowning. Upon receiving a call, rescue personnel can set up and deploy at the last seen location of the drowning victim. Utilising the Gemini 720i imaging sonar, the drowning victim is located and the rLBV is navigated to within grasping range. For conditions where visibility is near zero, external ultra bright LED lights and video enhancement are utilised. Upon locating the victim, the specially designed grasping jaws attach to an arm or leg and the rLBV can be pulled back to the shore using its ultra strong tether. Once the rescued victim is to shore, the medical technicians can prepare for transport to a local hospital and ultimate revival.
The SARbot™ is an exciting new technology with tremendous potential for saving lives around the world. www.derbyshire-fire-service.co.uk www.seabotix.com www.tritech.co.uk www.marinesimulation.com
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HART capabilities expanded to include inland water operations Ambulance HART (Hazardous Area Response Teams) are being rolled out to ambulance services across England. A Department of Health initiative, the programme provides pre-hospital care within the inner cordon and initially included two capabilities: Incident Response Unit (IRU) to function at major incidents, hazmat incidents and CBRN incidents; and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) to function within collapsed structures, at height or confined spaces and supporting technical rescue operations. Flooding significantly features on the national risk register and as such the decision was taken to implement a HART capability to provide advanced pre-hospital care at flooding incidents. Inland Water Operations (IWO) therefore forms the third HART capability and will be rolled out to HART teams around England following consultation with London Fire Brigade, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, the Defra National Flood Enhancement Project and the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA). Working alongside flood rescue professionals, for example fire and rescue and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), HART – IWO operatives will be able to deliver clinical care to patients who may have become trapped by a water course or to assist with triage during evacuation. Relevant training In order to provide relevant training to the role, a bespoke three-day training course has been developed to include safety, working with other agencies, wading, self rescue, land-based rescue techniques, working in boats and specific clinical
considerations. This course was developed to align with the training standards detailed in the Defra Flood Rescue Concept of Operations document (draft). This was to ensure interoperability with partner agencies deploying in this environment. Clearly water rescue training courses already exist, however, it is imperative that the training is relevant to the role carried out – as with all HART operations the primary function is clinical care and to support rescue organisations such as fire and rescue during the rescue phase. By tailoring our own course we have been able to produce a manageable skill set relevant to the function – clinical care at such incidents will primarily be carried out from a boat or within the warm zone.
Using the Firebuy framework, initial pilot courses were conducted with Rescue 3 UK to evaluate the objectives and learning outcomes. These courses were extremely well received and are currently being rolled out across England. Trusts are able to identify their own training locations using the objectives written, resulting in the training being tailored to their specific risk environments. For example, trusts with inner cities may choose to train on man-made fast water environments which will be similar to a flooded high street, while trusts with rural risk areas may choose to train on natural water courses. Firebuy procurement Equipment for the role is also being procured using the Firebuy framework and will include: drysuits, water rescue boots, undergarments, gloves, helmets, personal flotation devices, throwlines, rescue knives and whistles. A reserve of this equipment will be held centrally to provide resilience at large-scale or protracted incidents. In addition to training, stakeholder organisations have also been consulted on the development of safe systems of work, standard operating procedures and supporting documentation to ensure smooth implementation with partner agencies. Once fully established, HART IWO (as with the other HART capabilities) will work with and support frontline ambulance crews to deliver timely and effective advanced pre-hospital care with clear benefits to the patient. www.ambulancehart.org
Author: Jamie Fountain, HART USAR Lead See us on Stand A9
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Inflatable workboats, emergency response boats, special forces boats, ribs for commercial and professional use from 4–8.4m. Avon Inflatables Ltd Military and Professional Division Dafen, Llanelli, Camarthenshire, SA18 8NA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1554 882000 Fax: +44 (0)1554 882039 E-mail: workboat@zmp-zodiac.com www.avon-workboats.com
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Craft complete water rescue framework Firebuy’s water rescue framework agreement, let last December, has now been completed with the addition of water rescue craft. The framework can provide the emergency services with a wide range of craft, equipment, protective clothing and training courses to meet the challenges of flooding and water rescue. The framework agreement is available to public sector organisations such as local authorities, emergency services, the MoD and Maritime and Coastguard Agency, as well as registered charities such as the RNLI. It has already proved popular with fire and rescue services across England and Wales as well as Ambulance HART and MCA. The procurement was led by Firebuy and was supported by a number of FRS experts in partnership with Defra, as part of the Flood Rescue National Enhancement Project (FRNEP). The RNLI also played a supporting role in reviewing user requirements. Water rescue craft The framework offers powered and non-powered craft, outboard motors and accessories. Familiarisation training is also available. The suppliers for the water rescue craft lot are: Angloco, Avon, Barnet Marine, E P Barrus, Lomo Industries, MFC Survival, Pioner Boats, Safequip, Versadock and Yamaha Motors (UK) Ltd. The PPE available on the framework includes clothing, footwear and accessories, stowage and
storage. Suppliers on this lot are: Supply 999, Collins Nets, Future Safety, Goliath Footwear, Lomo Industries, Northern Diver, Polar Bears, Safequip and Trelleborg. The water rescue equipment has available inter hose inflation kits, inflation devices, hose protectors, harnesses and karabiners. The suppliers on this lot are: AssetCo, Collins Nets, Lomo Industries, Premier Hose Technologies and Total Worx. Courses include training for flood and water rescue, including water awareness, water rescue
incident commander and water rescue boat operator. Suppliers for this lot are: AS Training, Command UK – Technical Rescue, Fire Service College and Rescue 3. Full details of this framework agreement including specifications and prices is available via the members’ area of the Firebuy website. www.firebuy.gov.uk See us on Stand E29
Body recovery experts take to the locks and lakes West Midlands Police disbanded its Underwater Search Team in November 1999, which at that time was part of the Operations Support Unit. Most of the equipment was given or sold to Nottinghamshire Underwater Search Unit who continued to contract out their services to the West Midlands Police. Aside from the obvious cost implications of this course of action – between October 1999 and September 2003 over £102,000 was spent on a total of 46 searches, 24 of which were ‘wades’ only – there was also the issue of increased waiting times, as water tasks were resourced by Nottinghamshire. These problems were compounded when, in 2002, West Midlands Fire Service withdrew their ‘body recovery from water’ teams. Following a meeting with the Assistant Chief Constable for Crime it was decided to train a small number of Operations Support Unit officers in shallow water operations. The team went operational in March 2004.
system in place via the force control room. The teams are not divers and on the occasions when a dive capability is required Nottinghamshire are still the first point of contact to supply this service. The teams are able to search for and recover submerged bodies or evidence from water with a maximum depth of up to 1.5m. They are able to recover floating bodies or floating evidence from water of any depth. Obviously, within the West Midlands, the teams mainly find themselves working the canal network (including the locks and sluices) that cover the entire force area, but on occasions will operate in lakes, reservoirs and other areas of still water such as ornamental park lakes etc.
Three teams The West Midlands Police Water Search and Recovery Team remains part of the Operations Support Unit and now comprises three teams of a Sergeant (all of whom are Police Search Advisors and Missing Person PolSAs) and seven constables. Each team is based geographically in the Western, Central and Eastern areas of the force but in reality can find themselves operating in any region of the West Midlands force area; on occasions support has been given to colleagues in other forces, notably Staffordshire and West Mercia Constabularies. The teams are available between 8:00am and midnight, with an out-of-hours advice and ‘call out’
Body recovery The main task carried out by the team is the recovery of bodies whether accidental drowning, suicide or suspicious deaths. In these cases the teams are able to offer a full forensic recovery service, working closely alongside SIOs, and Forensic Scene Managers. The teams also undertake crime scene searches where intelligence suggests that evidence has been disposed of in water. The teams average two jobs per month each and undertake regular training exercises. They have recently also started giving ‘water safety’ demonstrations to schools and are currently negotiating with RoSPA to provide this service to
other organisations. Tasks are mostly carried out in duty time resulting in minimal expense and response times are excellent, which in turn equates to less time spent on scene preservation for LPU staff, thus quickly freeing up vital resources. Basic training Prior to joining the team prospective water operatives undergo a swim test to prove their confidence in water and complete a course of inoculations to protect against water-borne ailments. The basic training course is of three-days duration and is delivered by members of the team. It covers safety and risk assessment, water search techniques and practical search exercises in canals, locks, lakes and running water. The team is selfsufficient and now well established – the only regular expenses are minimal and usually involve repairs to equipment such as dry suits and gloves. These are facilitated through commercial dive shops within the force area. www.west-midlands.police.uk
Author: Sergeant Jonathan Reece, Operations Support Unit, West Midlands Police Water Search and Recovery Team
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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Independent lifeboats join forces and set up I-Lifeboats UK When the words ‘MAYDAY’ are heard at sea you can guarantee that HM Coastguard will be coordinating a rescue plan within seconds of the call. What you cannot guarantee is that the lifeboat that attends is part of a National Lifeboat Institution, as around the waters of the UK there are over 60 independent lifeboat organisations that are all selfgoverned but still maintain the high standards that allow them to be a declared facility for rescues by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). The differences between these independent bodies and the national organisation are so negligible that there is a good chance, should you require their assistance, you wouldn’t be aware that this breed of lifeboat was actually coming to your aid – the blue flashing light and orange boat would be enough of a comfort and the competence of the crew onboard would reassure you that the situation was being dealt with in the professional manner that one would expect. Solent Rescue.
Ryde Inshore Rescue.
Often overshadowed Few people realise that just under 25% of all the UK’s lifeboats are independent, and do not receive any funding or support from the RNLI or government. More importantly, the volume of work undertaken by these units and their value within the search and rescue sector is often overshadowed. Last year in The Solent, where there is the highest congregation of independent lifeboats, the SAR taskings by Solent Coastguard almost doubled the number claimed by the RNLI lifeboats in the same area. But how many of the casualty vessels or persons realised that they were being rescued by a local lifeboat?
“Just under 25% of all the UK’s lifeboats are independent, and do not receive any funding or support from the RNLI or government.” Many units have evolved from lifeguards, where it was noticed that swimming casualties were dropping in numbers but the number of watercraft in trouble was rapidly increasing. In other areas national lifeboat units were closed down but the
local communities decided that there was still a need for a rescue craft and set up their own unit. Whatever the reason, all these units have shown that they are essential within their operational areas. These ‘local lifeboats’ are run and managed entirely by volunteers in 99% of all units. Every aspect of putting the rescue craft afloat with a ‘declared’ status is down to the small dedicated team that receive no payment of any kind. The crew and helms of the lifeboats are also responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the vessels, launching vehicles and lifeboat stations with not a paid mechanic in sight! With all the equipment to be maintained and average running costs of between £25,000 and £40,000 a year, fundraising needs to be continuous, with once again the onus being on the same people that do everything else... Busy lifeboat stations tend to use a lot of fuel and everyone knows just how expensive that is at the moment! Even with the best equipment and facilities the crew still have to be trained to the highest levels acceptable to the MCA’s standards and with no big PR or fundraising team, the units rely heavily on the communities in which they operate for financial support, with lottery and other large national grants hard to come by.
public one place to go to learn about all these unsung heroes; and allowed all the crews around the country to have a central meeting place where they could discuss ideas and issues that affected them all. Suddenly these units found that there was a lot more support out there for them, and the saying ‘a problem shared, a problem halved’ proved to be true. It also became apparent that if all 60 or so of these units joined together for certain fundraising events, exhibitions and seminars they could shout a lot louder and be heard! So while retaining their independence, which all units are extremely proud of, a support and information network came about and the I-Lifeboats UK were born. Author: Michaela White, Chairman, Ryde Inshore Rescue and Administrator, I-lifeboat UK website www.i-lifeboat.org.uk
Website portal In 2009 a local crewmen in the Solent area decided to create a website to be used as an information portal and forum for all the independent lifeboats that operated in the UK. The idea was twofold: it gave the
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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86 | WATER RESCUE
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Zodiac: the new leading name in emergency rescue boats UK rescue services have grown to trust emergency rescue boats (ERBs) from Avon Inflatables. Few users would know, or perhaps even care, that the South Wales manufacturer is actually part of the giant Zodiac Military and Professional (MILPRO) group, based in Paris. This company dominates the world for every type of inflatable boat and possesses a product range and expertise that other manufacturers can only dream of.
ERB 400 in rescue drill.
ERB 400 with fire and rescue team.
To streamline operations, the Zodiac name is now being given greater prominence and can be found on a new combined range of Avon and Zodiac ERBs. Buyers can now choose from a bigger lineup of models but still enjoy the same service, support and familiarity with their needs that has been synonymous with Avon. ERBs carrying the Avon brand name are still available to Firebuy purchasers but the Zodiac range now includes the
new 310, 380 and 400 boats that are fast becoming favourites with emergency services in Canada and the US. Zodiac boats are designed to be practical and durable and models in the all-new Zodiac ERB range offer dependable rapid air cylinder inflation. A new lighter inflatable air floor system now reduces the overall weight of all Zodiac ERBs but they are also available with roll-up or solid floors.
Minimal maintenance requirements make Zodiac boats popular with rescue crews throughout the world while their competitive pricing appeals to purchasing departments. www.zodiacrescueboats.com See us on Stand 135
Central Rescue UK is going from strength to strength As well as providing resilience for both West Midlands Fire Service and West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS), Central Rescue UK, formed by number of RYA advanced instructors in October 2006, provides a popular water safety presentation for youth organisations and schools.
The presentation includes the use of a 12ft long working model of a river with some 20 hazards, which is also used at local fund raising events. A youth section teaching first aid, canoeing and power boating is also run for 16 to 18 year olds
prior to them joining the operational team. Thanks to the good work of one of its team, a new Land Rover Defender is soon to be donated by Land Rover at Solihull. This will be fitted with specialist equipment for water rescue and also available to respond to calls for WMAS in the event of inclement weather. Central has some 20 operational staff and 10 support staff, all operational staff are trained, in: RYA power Central Rescue moved to a new station at Shard End in April. boating, Canoeing, SRT 1, Rescue and a quad bike is used in support of this. Advanced First Aid and many other subjects. Central is a registered charity and supported Some of the training staff are well qualified, entirely by voluntary contributions. including paramedics, RYA advanced instructors, BCU coaches and mountain leaders; the team is www.centralrescue.co.uk also a declared facility with Defra. Author: Pete Sherwin MBE, Land search, particularly near water is an Chairman of Central Rescue UK. additional service soon to be provided by Central
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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UK EMERGENCY SERVICES
WALLMAPS Five full colour wall maps are available to help your sales The emergency services wallmaps are 1000mm x 690mm and printed in colour on card paper. Maps feature advertisements around the perimeter and are folded for easy delivery by mail. Each wall map features cities, towns etc plus details of the establishments located on the map: UK Police HQ and boundaries, February 2010 UK Fire & Rescue HQ and boundaries, September 2010 UK Ambulance HQ and boundaries, May 2010 UK AFOA Airports, January 2010 UK Defence Fire Risk Management Organisations establishments, May 2010 All five maps are available at a price of ÂŁ95 (individual price ÂŁ28.00).
To place your order contact: anne@mmcpublications.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1273 453033 Fax: +44 (0)1273 453085 www.emergencyservicestimes.com
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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88 | PROFILE
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Police join forces against gun and knife crime The issues surrounding gun and knife crime, especially where young people are involved, continue to receive national media attention. South Yorkshire Police is committed to reducing the number of youth-related incidents in the region involving guns and knives and, through a combination of prevention, intervention and education has achieved considerable success through its acclaimed ‘Guns and Knives Take Lives’ initiative – success that West Midlands Police and others are hoping to emulate. In 2005, before the ‘Guns and Knives Take Lives’ initiative was introduced, 46 percent of firearms incidents attended by firearms officers in South Yorkshire involved young people, in comparison to just 12 percent of incidents in 2009. The success of the initiative, which has clear links to the PSHE curriculum and the Government’s Every Child Matters agenda, has earned the team local and national awards, including the Cutler’s Company Award and the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals Certificate of Commendation. The work has also generated much interest among other forces such as West Midlands and Nottinghamshire Police and 2010 saw South Yorkshire Police deliver six presentations in four Nottinghamshire schools. The South Yorkshire Police ‘Guns and Knives Take Lives’ education team consists of 10 officers who, alongside their usual core firearms role, deliver the visually impactive, interactive and thought-provoking presentation, primarily to Year 9 schoolchildren. During the 2009/2010 academic year, the team delivered the 90-minute presentation in 65 of the 75 secondary schools in the county.
Education package South Yorkshire Police have now produced a package that is available to every force in the country and West Midlands Police were the first to take advantage, collecting theirs on 14 July 2010. On handing over the product, South Yorkshire Police Chief Superintendent Keith Lumley said, “We are justifiably proud of the ‘Guns and Knives Take Lives’ product that we have developed over the last five years and the success that it has had. So much so, that it is now part of our core Organised Crime Group and Firearms Strategy. As we were receiving more and more interest from other forces to deliver the presentation in their schools, which was not a cost effective or sustainable solution, we decided to produce a package with all the resources needed for other forces to replicate ‘Guns and Knives Take Lives’ in their force area.” West Midlands Police Chief Inspector Paul Minor added, “We have seen the real impact of this approach in reducing the need to deploy firearms officers to incidents involving young people. I am anticipating that we can translate the successes seen in South Yorkshire to the streets of the West Midlands. I personally experienced the full presentation delivered by South Yorkshire officers and I was tremendously impressed by the obvious interest and engagement shown by the young people
PC Kirk Hardwick demonstrates the equipment carried by authorised firearms officers.
and the professional approach taken by the officers.” The ‘Guns and Knives Take Lives’ package is available for £2995 +VAT and includes all the slides used in the presentation, appropriate media, booking matrix and professionally produced artwork. In addition, supporting literature provides guidance on strategy, method, implementation, equipment, media and a step-by-step presentation delivery guide.
(Infer Trust 2009). In South Yorkshire, it has proven to help divert young people from weapon-related offending providing a sustainable engagement strategy with partners, promoting the safety of young people in local communities and reducing crime. For more information on the ‘Guns and Knives Take Lives’ initiative or the available package please e-mail: operationoctave@southyorks.pnn.police.uk.
Model of excellence The pack has everything needed for police forces across the country to replicate the South Yorkshire model, already identified as a model of excellence
www.southyorks.police.uk
(From L to R) PC Matt Birch (SYP), Ch Insp Paul Minor (WMP), Ch Supt Keith Lumley (SYP), PC Jim Hurst (WMP).
Emergency Services Times August 2010
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90 | TECHNOLOGY
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Body-worn video cuts crime across the UK VEEcam, the revolutionary body-worn video system distributed by Persides, has proved to be a huge hit with British police forces as the latest initiative to prevent crime and provide vital evidence for the courts. The innovative video recorders are proving extremely popular with officers in North Wales where the deployment of more than 70 VEEcam cameras has helped to lead to a drastic reduction in crime. Kevin Clark, who heads up the North Wales Police imaging unit, said, “These body-worn video cameras can have a significant impact by providing officers with evidence that can be used in court to bring about successful prosecutions. The cameras are also a useful tool in preventing crime in the first place. If the public are aware that our officers have the ability to film while out on patrol, it will make people think twice before getting involved in criminal behaviour.” British Transport Police (BTP) has deployed VEEcam for high profile football matches, including the Carling Cup Final at Wembley. They have also been used in policing fans travelling to Premier League matches and to fixtures with a
history of keen rivalry between supporters. The BTP in Scotland have experimented with different models of body-worn cameras and have been impressed by the system’s reliability and performance. Detective Constable Ian Banyard, Technical Support Unit representative for the BTP Scotland, said, “We have looked at different systems that are available on the market but some of the cheaper versions do not have the functionality and robustness of VEEcam. Bodyworn videos are excellent in situations where it is difficult for officers to carry hand-held video cameras and for operating in some of our more confined spaces, such as on the Glasgow subway.” The highly durable system, which is waterproof, shockproof and resistant to both high and low temperatures, is able to produce quality video and still photographs that can be replayed or downloaded using an ultra-low power source. Because of its sophistication, yet extremely easy operation, VEEcam has also been adopted by military personnel operating in Afghanistan and is proving to be an invaluable piece of kit. www.persides.com www.vee-cam.com
Rapid deployment ANPR NDI Recognition Systems, the leading designer, manufacturer and solutions provider of automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems, has launched the ST200, a new rapid deployment ANPR system. The system has been designed for use in a wide range of covert and overt applications in both mobile and static modes and can simultaneously process up to two lanes of high speed, high density traffic and multiple units can be networked to provide a ‘ring of steel’ capability. The ST200 is a rugged, compact and portable ANPR system with wireless HSUPA (3G) and Wi-Fi connectivity, which can be deployed and operational within minutes. It features a powerful 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor with a Windows operating system running high-speed frame grabbers and the Talon ANPR software, a proprietary neural network recognition engine that delivers significantly higher performance and accuracy than OCR-based ANPR systems. Talon is Web Services accredited and exceeds National ACPO ANPR Standards (NAAS) for data capture and accuracy. The system can handle four video inputs from two ‘Dual’ ANPR cameras providing full colour contextual overview
imagery and high quality number plate capture using IR at speeds of up to four plates per second, significantly faster than other systems. Over two million time-stamped images and pre and post capture videos can be securely stored on the system along with local hotlists which are managed by direct connection to web-based services such as BOF or VISCE, the back office application from NDI Recognition Systems. As well as having an external high capacity battery, the ST200 offers a range of flexible power options including connection to a DC in-vehicle adaptor or AC mains power outlet. www.ndi-rs.com
Console – rugged, secure and expandable architecture.
SAR app on iPhone and Android Augmentra, the mobile mapping and navigation company, is extending its free software and support for UK search and rescue (SAR) teams to include its recently launched ViewRanger GPS apps for the iPhone and Android platforms. ViewRanger is used by teams across the country and this facility will make it easier for volunteers to turn their own phones into a fully featured ‘off-road sat-nav’. Augmentra has been running a Volunteer search and rescue program since October 2009 and now has a number of teams signed up for free software and support. The first to join were Dartmoor Rescue Group and Sussex Search and Rescue. Feedback from these teams is used to continuously develop the functionality of ViewRanger. ViewRanger offers high resolution 1:25k scale Ordnance Survey mapping for the whole of Great Britain, combining on-road and off-road navigation on one device. All the national parks are available as packages and it is possible to add individual map tiles ‘over the air’ for specific areas. The sharp and clear map display makes it easy to locate and navigate in all weather conditions and continuous GPS tracklog recording helps with the reporting process. ViewRanger’s BuddyBeacon facility enables team leaders to track volunteers’ positions in the field, and photos, notes and POIs can be geo-tagged for later reference. Under the Volunteer Search and Rescue program, ViewRanger can be widely deployed across a team’s members – meaning virtually everyone on the team can have access to this navigation, logging and team-working aid. With traditional dedicated units costing around £300, the cost savings for a team can be enormous. ViewRanger is available on the Symbian, iPhone and Android platforms. www.viewranger.com/sar
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Savings in IT procurement IT represents one of the largest areas of indirect procurement spend and as a volatile marketplace, where price and stock can fluctuate, it tests buyers trying to achieve sustained best value on purchases. Specifying, sourcing and buying products at best value consumes considerable time for IT procurement teams.
Durham Constabulary and Northumbria Police have adopted price-policing tool (IT buying tool) Mercato ITelligence in a joint landmark move to reduce IT procurement costs as part of an overall efficiency drive. The new approach is expected to
save time and money, as well as streamline current processes. Mercato ITelligence informs users in real-time what margin their supplier is offering, so empowering buyers to quickly negotiate better value deals and benchmark against existing agreements. Buyers simply input their preferred supplier product lists or spot checks online, which are compared to trade price and stock of 500,000 product lines within the UK IT supply chain. With management reports and forecasting facilities, it regularly saves 3-24% on IT budgets and cuts time traditionally spent manually carrying out supplier comparisons – credentials that have seen ITelligence accredited for ‘procurement excellence’ by the Chartered Institute of Purchase & Supply (CIPS). Durham Constabulary and Northumbria Police already employ CIPS best practice approaches to buying under government framework agreements and EU Procurement Directives. Both forces’ procurement and IT teams worked collaboratively to assess and engage ITelligence. Marie Dale MCIPS, Contracts Manager at Durham Constabulary, said, “For the first time, we
Marie Dale MCIPS, Contracts Manager at Durham Constabulary.
will have knowledge of our supplier’s actual cost prices. This will provide negotiation from a position of strength and help us quickly save money on buying IT whilst promoting an open and collaborative supplier relationship. On that basis we expect to validate best practice best value on every purchase and ROI within weeks. “Mercato ITelligence will also enable us to track and control spending long-term as well as map our purchasing patterns to market movements for sustained value. The tool’s automated ‘alerts’ indicate when price or stock rise or fall.” www.mercatosolutions.com
Information at our fingertips Web software Police officers in South Yorkshire are now able to check an individual’s identity at the roadside within two minutes, following the introduction of a new mobile fingerprinting device. The Lantern fingerprint devices are available throughout South Yorkshire and allow frontline police officers to scan a person’s fingerprints while out on patrol and check them against the national fingerprint database for matches. This will enable faster identification of those who are known to the police and enable officers to spend more time in the community. For example, rather than having to return to the station to arrest and detain an individual to establish their identity, which can take up to several hours, it will now take a couple of minutes using the device. The Lantern devices have been supplied to South Yorkshire Police by the National Police Improvement Agency (NPIA.) The NPIA previously ran a national pilot of the devices to other forces, including the Met and West Yorkshire. The only downside to the Lantern device is that it’s not effective for foot patrol due to its bulkiness in size. However, Lantern is just an interim
solution until South Yorkshire Police develops the new MobileID service at the end of 2010. This will provide smaller fingerprint scanning devices that will link to the new Blackberrys, which frontline officers are currently being issued with.
accessed in real time making it possible for users to quickly find and identify their current surroundings. Paul McAfee, Head of Business Development at Simunix, says, “The beauty of this mobile service is that every member of an organisation is able to access all this information either at their work place or on the go; anywhere there is internet access including 2G mobile”.
Goss Interactive has launched GOSS iCM (intelligent Content Management) version 9, an upgrade to its web content management solution, which allows local authorities and other public sector organisations to drive efficiency savings by delivering more services online, resulting in potential savings of up to £200,000 for clients. Tom Stirling, New Media Officer at North Yorkshire Police, comments, “We’re delighted with the new features in GOSS iCM v9. The forms designer in particular is very powerful, and is allowing us to create complex, transactional forms. This means that we don’t need to rely on expensive third-party products to provide our forms. “The enhanced media management features help us maintain and improve our image and video libraries – particularly important for a police force where photographs and CCTV play an important part in the fight against crime.” Rob McCarthy, CEO at GOSS Interactive, says, “With GOSS iCM v9, we have looked to enhance the efficiency of client websites by making content creation and editing even simpler. “GOSS iCM v9 is a must-have tool for today’s public sector organisations facing reduced budgets and increased demand to do more with less. We have included a powerful forms capability, this enables clients to reduce the number of products needed to deliver services more efficiently.” GOSS iCM v9 is available as a free upgrade to all current GOSS clients who have a support contract and is the standard version supplied to new clients.
http://ukphonebook.com
www.gossinteractive.com/v9
www.npia.police.uk/en/10046.htm
Communications on the go In response to the increased usage of its Mobile ukphonebook.com service by police forces in recent months, the directory solutions provider Simunix Ltd has launched a corporate version and has provided every UK police force with access. The mobile-optimised site gives users access to over 120 million records, which can be used to look up information on people, businesses, telephone numbers and addresses. The address data can be
upgrade provides savings
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92 | PRODUCT INFORMATION
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A step change in boot technology A revolutionary new firefighter boot, the FIRE HERO® from HAIX®, has taken two years of development and includes no less than nine cutting-edge innovations. With it the Bavarian functional footwear specialist highlights the direction it believes the emergency footwear industry is heading – step in, zip up, fasten the closure system, all in one motion, and you’re ready to fight the fire. A new, patented lace-zipper system ensures the boot can be fitted perfectly and securely in mere seconds. “But the FIRE HERO® from HAIX® is not only the fastest – it is also the safest firefighter boot that has ever been made,” says HAIX® CEO, Ewald Haimerl. HAIX® is also the world’s leading manufacturer of functional footwear for police forces, rescue and military task forces and has also increased its presence in the forestry and leisure/outdoor sector.
Passionate developmental work €600,000 have been invested in development of the FIRE HERO®. “We have thought about it a lot and listened to colleagues all over the world to see what matters to the firefighter when it comes to footwear in action,” says Haimerl. HAIX® incorporated these experiences from daily use on the job into its benchmark during the development of the FIRE HERO®. The result is a fire fighting boot, the like of which has never been seen before. An ingenious system of protectors protects the
ankles, instep and shinbone. Then there is also cut protection up to class 2, which is particularly important when working with chain saws. A sophisticated shock absorption system gently protects the spine. And a choice of three different orthopaedic insoles enables individual fitting for comfort. It won’t just be women in firefighters’ uniforms who will quickly come to appreciate this innovation with their anatomically slimmer feet. There is also a special technology incorporated into the leather, which reflects the rays of the sun instead of heating up the shoe. The HAIX® developers paid particular attention to the soles. Their anti-slip properties are effective on any surface. The CrossTech® membrane, which has been incorporated into the FIRE HERO®, not only prevents the penetration of liquids into the interior, but bacteria or even viruses don’t stand a chance either. The FIRE HERO® therefore fulfils the highest level of safety requirements of fire and rescue services around the world. Munich airport testing Christian Jokisch is thrilled with the FIRE HERO®. He and his crew at the southern fire service at Munich Airport tested the boots for a year in action and during their tough training exercises. They were thus able to make some suggestions for improvement. The brand new, patented lace-zipper system, “Ensures the boot can be fitted perfectly and securely in mere seconds,” confirms Firefighter Wolfram Gerhard. A passionate snowboarder in his free time, Wolfram tested the FIRE HERO® for months directly on the taxiway. He said he only knows of one fastening in the world that works in a similarly brilliant way – and that is in his sport. The system reflects the unique set up of the HAIX® development team around the two brothers Ewald and Franz Haimerl. Innovations in applications from sports science and fire fighting
experience through to materials, shoe technology and tyre treads have influenced the FIRE HERO®. Leading manufacturer With this boot HAIX® confirms once again its major role as the world’s leading manufacturer of functional footwear for fire and rescue services, police forces and military task forces and has also increased its presence in the forestry and leisure/outdoor sector. HAIX® is located in Bavaria where its new headquarters is currently under construction and in 2009 HAIX® invested €5m in Croatia to build a second high-tech facility.
Firefighters all over the world rely on HAIX® boots, from Los Angeles to Moscow, Hong Kong to Mexico City – in fact, wherever firefighters are on duty, wherever people need rescuing, wherever people need to totally rely on their footwear in order to do their job – high quality boots from HAIX® have become an indispensable piece of equipment. The Bavarian functional footwear specialist’s mission statement is ‘Evolution, Revolution, Solution’ – The FIRE HERO® is a revolutionary result of this philosophy. www.haix.com See us on Stand 54
Thirst Aid during floods Pure Hydration, the specialist manufacturer of water purification systems, is distributing its unique Thirst Aid Bags to councils in the UK so that in the event of flooding, stranded householders can have access to clean drinking water. The innovative bags
are fitted with a filter, which kills viruses as well as removing harmful bacteria, dirt, sediments, bad tastes and odours, turning contaminated water into clean drinking water. The filter can treat as much as 350 litres of water before the filter needs replacing. They are ideal for disaster zones and a shipment of the 195g bags was shipped out to Haiti to help victims of the earthquake. Flooding is becoming more commonplace in the UK, and the impact can be devastating on communities. Pure Hydration is making its products available in the UK so that in the event of flooding this winter, residents – particularly the
elderly and those with mobility issues – will have the means to produce drinking water. Minimising the impact One of the councils to be distributing Thirst Aid Bags is Barnsley Metropolitan Council. Derek Bell, Principal Flood Resilience Manager, said, “We see this as an effective way to minimise the impact of a flooding event, as it allows people to quickly get back to their homes to start the recovery and cleanup process as soon as possible.” www.bwtechnologies.com
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103 years of people helping people Europe’s largest private emergency service, Falck, is definitely a business. But it is based on people helping people.
Falck set up an independent division, Fire & Safety, in 2007, providing fire brigades, safety training and safety consultancy to both industrial and public sector clients outside of Denmark.
Appalled by the chaotic rescue work during a devastating fire of the Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark, Sophus Falck established a rescue service business in 1906 based on people helping people in an organised and systematic manner. A hundred years later, millions of people all over the world stand face-to-face with a Falck employee each year when a fire breaks out, when involved in a traffic accident, when getting ill or when being educated in preventing accidents. Falck is a Scandinavian-based organisation with activities in most areas of Europe and with representation on five continents. All Falck’s activities are directed at preventing accidents and disease; providing assistance in situations of emergency, accidents or need; and helping people move on with their lives after illness or accidents. Four business areas In recent years, in particular, Falck has grown vigorously, and now consists of four different business areas – Emergency, Assistance, Healthcare and Training. Of these, Emergency is the largest, mainly comprising ambulance and helicopter emergency medical services, fire fighting activities and patient transportation. Falck provides ambulance services to the general
Within the Emergency business area Falck has recently established Airport Services, offering fire fighting services, assistance to passengers with reduced mobility and healthcare services.
public in seven European countries in close collaboration with the authorities. As the only crossborder ambulance company in Europe, Falck has more than 900 ambulances which respond to as many as one million emergency calls each year: people who are critically ill, women in labour and accident victims. Falck also participates in a large number of other pre-hospital schemes including rapid response units with paramedics, nurses and doctors and including emergency helicopters.
As the only cross-border ambulance company in Europe, Falck has more than 900 ambulances, which respond to as many as one million emergency calls each year.
Falck bought its first ambulance in 1907, and this ambulance was the first automobile ambulance in Scandinavia. Today, Falck provides 85% of all Danish ambulance operations. In the 1990s, Falck ambulances were put into operation in Poland and
In 2006, Falck became the largest ambulance company in Slovakia via an invitation for tenders for Slovakian ambulance services.
Sweden, and after the turn of the millennium also in Belgium, Finland and Norway. In 2006, Falck became the largest ambulance company in Slovakia via an invitation for tenders for Slovakian ambulance services. The company operates helicopter emergency medical services based in Denmark, Sweden and the northern part of Germany. Fire fighting services In 1922, Falck became a fire service and soon Falck’s fire brigades fought fires in most of Denmark. Today Falck provides fire fighting services in two-thirds of the Danish municipalities, closely cooperating with the authorities. Falck set up an independent division, Fire & Safety, in 2007, providing fire brigades, safety training and safety consultancy to both industrial and public sector clients outside of Denmark. Since then Falck has obtained fire fighting contracts in Brazil, the Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom. Within the Emergency business area Falck has recently established Airport Services, offering fire fighting services, assistance to passengers with reduced mobility and healthcare services. “All our business initiatives are still based on our basic vision that Falck is people helping people. Therefore, empathy combined with action is a natural part of the DNA of our employees, and our goal is to contribute to making the world a safer and more secure place to live”, says Falck CEO Allan Søgaard Larsen. Falck is also a world leader in rescue and safety courses, especially for staff in the off shore and maritime sector. In addition, Falck is servicing the chemical industry, fire services, the aviation industry and military defence at more than 30 training centres worldwide. In Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Estonia, Falck provides a wide range of services within roadside assistance and home safety. And in Denmark Falck is the leading private heathcare provider. Each year, Falck’s doctors, nurses, psychologists, physiotherapists and other specialists assist thousands of people in avoiding or overcoming physical or mental problems. www.falck.com
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94 | PRODUCT INFORMATION
Mobile phone evidence recovery device
tified – green for adults and pink for paediatrics. Once opened, the kits can be replenished and resealed as needed. www.proactmedical.co.uk
Medical supply case
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between positive (SCBA) and negative (filter) pressure at the flick of a switch located at the front of the mask. With a compressed air cylinder attached, this saves the wearer time, as a location can be entered and assessed on filter mode, then changed to SCBA on site if necessary. Many accessories are available such as vision correction frames for glasses wearers, various outserts for different lighting situations and a clear voice projection unit for easy communication with others, making the ST53 one of the most advanced respiratory systems on the market.
Patient safety book
www.avon-protection.com
LED Floodlite Radio Tactics, a leading global provider of mobile phone forensics equipment, has released the Aceso v5, an updated version of the existing Aceso device, which enables police to recover evidence from mobile phones, SIM cards and media storage devices. The v5 has many extra benefits including: support for new and popular handsets such as the iPhone 3GS/4; facility for exploitation of handsets without a SIM card; improved speed; increased control over file types to obtain, avoiding downloading files with no evidential value; and greater flexibility and convenience for high-tech crime specialists. The Aceso system requires minimum training, bringing mobile phone forensic examination to the front line, enabling forensic experts to focus their time on more specialist areas. www.radio-tactics.com
A new case from Peli Products has been designed for safely carrying and protecting medical supplies. The 1460EMS case is tough and watertight, and the deep lid opens 180° offering a stable base when in use. The case offers a fully customisable three-tier shelf system, which can be lifted out if necessary. When closed, the top tray and lid work as a seal to prevent anything spilling out during transit. A needle container will soon be available as an accessory so the user can safely dispose of any used needles. www.peliproducts.co.uk
Respiratory system
Emergency medical kits
PROACT Medical has released Patient Transfer Kits, a cost-effective way of providing critical patients with emergency care during transportation. The kits, which come in a carry bag that can be stored at the bottom of all patient transport trolleys, contain a disposable BVM, a selection of anaesthetic masks, guedel airways and a high concentration oxygen mask. The kits are colour-coded so can be easily iden-
The ST53 respiratory system from Avon has gained CE certification, meaning it is now approved for use for police forces, SWAT teams, special forces and security firms. The ST53 has been developed with the unknown elements of a threat scenario in mind, and offers a variety of respiratory possibilities on site without having to leave and change equipment. It uses the FM53 mask at its core, which can easily be switched
Wolf Safety has launched the Wolf LED Floodlite, a high performance, low maintenance, ATEX compliant hazardous area floodlight, using high output, high efficiency LEDs and designed to be transportable specifically for use in temporary applications and installations. The Wolf WF-300 LED Floodlite range is CE marked to the ATEX Directive for use in Zone 1 and 2 potentially explosive gas and dust atmospheres, with 48 ultra bright high power LEDs producing 3300 lumens of brilliant white light, brighter than a 200W halogen incandescent lamp. Cable powered from voltages of 100254V AC or 24-48V AC/DC, the lamp has low power consumption at 58W, is T4 rated and has a low enclosure surface temperature, eliminating the risk of burns. Supplied as standard with 20m of SY Cable, ATEX plug, and integral stainless-steel stand; the LED Floodlite can also be fitted with an ATEX socket, to allow the lamps to be linked together for quick and easy setup of multiple LED units in temporary installations. Constructed from powder-coated marine grade aluminium alloy and sealed dust and watertight to IP66/67, this very low maintenance Wolf LED Floodlite is available with a medium flood as standard, or a wide-angle beam to order. Other accessories include a sacrificial lens protecting films for grit blasting and painting applications, magnet fixings and tripod options. www.wolf-safety.co.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
To reduce healthcare errors and patients being harmed, a second edition of Patient Safety by Charles Vincent is available and provides a stronger emphasis on how healthcare can be improved. The book, which is invaluable for all healthcare professionals, discusses topics on the evolution of patient safety, common hazards, standardisation and practical action on how to reduce healthcare errors when caring for patients. The new edition reviews evidence of risks and harm to patients and offers guidance on implementing safe practices in healthcare. www.wileyblackwell.com
Dual SIM rugged mobile phone
Durrocomm, the communications company behind the LM801 rugged phone, has launched the Ventura Rugged Mobile phone. Not only is the Ventura rugged, water resistant to IP67, has a tough anti-crush construction, and can withstand being dropped from up to two metres, it can also accept two SIM cards. The SIMs can
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be from different network providers on different tariffs, giving the user maximum flexibility, and making it the ideal handset to use for personal and business needs. It also offers GPS, internet access, camera, music and video players, and long battery life.
tilation modes and features include: CMV/DEMAND ventilation, integrated PEEP, manual mode for CPR, tidal volume and frequency control, variable relief valve, luminous pressure gauge, air mix function and oxygen flow control.
response situation. Already used by public safety bodies, it is compact and light enough to be included among the specialist equipment aboard vehicles and mobile laboratories attending incidents where radiation contamination might pose a threat.
www.durrocomm.com
www.smiths-medical.com
www.lablogic.com
Safety boots
Radiation TETRA radio
New website
Management Review (EMR). It is a new peer-reviewed journal in which emergency management researchers and practitioners share their knowledge of good practice in a meaningful and effective way. EMR aims to publish accounts of good practice, innovative ways of delivering effective emergency management and civil protection, relevant case studies, and evidence-based articles that can contribute to the profession. The editorial team welcomes all articles that make a contribution to theory and/or practice of emergency management. Anybody working in resilience or civil protection that would like to contribute to EMR is invited to send abstracts of 500-1000 words or completed articles of 4000-5000 words to the Editor at e.l.coles@lubs.leeds.ac.uk. www.emergencymanagementreview.info
The new Stealth Force 80 CT/CP SZ WPi from Magnum is one of the company’s most revolutionary and technically efficient safety footwear styles. It features a composite safety toecap which is penetration resistant and a revolutionary ion-mask® hydrophobic coating which repels water and prevents the ingress of blood borne pathogens and potentially hazardous substances. The boot contains a side zip for fast application and removal. The athletic-styled boots have been rigorously tested and are certified to EN ISO 20345:2004/A1 2007 standards. www.magnumboots.com
Oxygen treatment platform
Traditionally when administering oxygen in an ambulance many different units had to be used, depending on what type of ventilation was needed. Thanks to the paraPAC plus from the Pneupac range of ventilators, available from Smiths Medical International, one single oxygen treatment platform can offer features of flow controllers, DEMAND valves, CPAP/PEEP and more. This means cost savings, less space being used in the ambulance and a reduced chance of infection. The paraPAC plus offers more features than its predecessor, the paraPAC, but weighs 1kg less. The dimensions are exactly the same and the fixation points are in the same place so the old unit can be replaced in one easy step. It is also certified for use in aircraft. Ven-
Mobile gas detector User safety is at the heart of the THR9 Ex TETRA radio from EADS Defence & Security. The THR Ex has IP65 classification and ATEX/IEC certification for communicating when working in hazardous environments, explosionprone areas and places where flammable materials are present. The THR Ex has a large, clear display which provides vital information to users on the changing field situations, for example if the battery is running low, TETRA signal is diminishing, or whether the radio is operating in trunked or direct mode. If a user becomes injured or falls, the Lifeguard feature triggers an alarm and sends coordinates to a predefined destination when the radio remains immobile or horizontal for a given period. www.eads.com
Leading PPE manufacturer Sperian Protection has launched its improved website – www.sperian.com. The new site offers improved search capabilities by consolidating all Sperian’s brand sites: Sperian, Miller and Howard Leight. The new site offers: improved navigation, which categorises products by brand, industry, hazard and type; a more powerful search; and more detailed product information including technical specifications and relevant certification. New features will be added as the site evolves, including the ‘My Sperian’ section, which will provide updates and industry news to registered users. www.sperian.com
Radiation counter
Emergency management journal
The Triathler portable radiation counter from LabLogic Systems gives accurate on-the-spot readings that could save lives in an emergency
The Emergency Planning Society, with the support of the Cabinet Office Civil Contingencies Unit and Scottish Resilience, has launched emergency
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Draeger has launched the smallest gas detector on the market to measure up to six gases. Combining infrared sensor technology and the latest XXS miniaturised electrochemical sensors, the X-am 5600 can accurately detect a wide variety of toxic gases, including O2, CO, H2S, H2, CO2, C12, HCN, NH3, NO, NO2, PH3, SO2 and organic vapours. With an ergonomic mobile phone design, this light yet robust detector is designed for singlehanded operation in tough industrial environments and is ATEX approved for use in explosive areas classified as Zone 0. The X-am 5600 offers a low cost of ownership, with a sensor life of up to eight years. Additionally, they only require calibration every 12 months, significantly reducing maintenance costs. www.draeger.com
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Cost vs Protection – managing PPE in an age of austerity The emergency services are working in a new era, which will see the strings on the public purse tightened as never before. They are all looking at the financial challenges ahead and how best to provide a service to the public within the context of unprecedented budget restrictions.
In the UK our first responders, be they firefighters, police officers or paramedics, are equipped with some of the best personal protective gear (PPE) in the world. Their safety is regarded as paramount by employers and it comes at a significant financial cost.
“In this new era it will be more important than ever to talk to, and work with, suppliers who have the expertise and experience to be flexible and innovative in finding ways to ensure that protection is not compromised by budget.” There is no doubt that services will do their best to make PPE last longer, which is possible if its maintained properly, but PPE doesn’t last forever and the cost of replacement is substantial. Many services are facing the daunting prospect of several million pounds of capital investment to reequip their staff – capital that they don’t now have available. So what can they do?
Managed service They could look at a ‘managed service’ approach to PPE procurement, which means that there is no one off capital investment and the equipment is funded as revenue expenditure over the life of the contract, which can be for seven years or more. Twelve years ago Lion Apparel was the first company to introduce a managed service in the UK with the contract to supply and manage the kit for firefighters in London. Today some two thirds of fire and rescue services in the UK procure PPE as a managed service and a number of police forces are looking at its potential. Other than the financial advantages, there are a number of additional benefits: • All employees are equipped with kit that is guaranteed fit for purpose for the lifetime of the contract • There is no need for costly stock inventories as this is managed by the supplier • There is a sharing and transfer of risk and liability for PPE. There are those who feel that the managed service approach is more costly than outright purchase, however a true like-for-like comparison would take account of the hidden costs that are inherent in ‘in house’ provision of PPE management. It’s difficult to put a price on some of the added value that comes from managed service contracts in extreme situations. For example, during the 7 July 2005 terrorist attacks Lion Apparel was able to supply more than 100 sets of additional PPE to London firefighters within 24 hours to replace contaminated fire suits and allow firefighters to remain operational. Lion Apparel was also able to supply additional kit to fire and rescue services involved in
the floods of 2009 and 2010, which enabled firefighters to continue their rescue operations. These exceptional circumstance are treated as normal operational incidents and in most cases do not incur additional charges to the fire and rescue service as part of the TotalCare service provision. Flexibility is key The key to meeting PPE needs within a restricted budget is flexibility. For those who have PPE that is in the later stages of life it’s still possible to work with suppliers on potential areas of servicing to extend the life of garments further without compromising protection. Under a managed service contract all of the kit is maintained fit for purpose for the lifetime of the contract. This means that instead of always replacing kit with brand new items, used equipment (fire coat, fire trouser and helmet) would be acceptable. Also retirees and leavers’ equipment can be re-used within the service. The current procurement legislation can at times restrict the dialogue and joint development that used to occur with suppliers, but in this new era it will be more important than ever to talk to, and work with, suppliers who have the expertise and experience to be flexible and innovative in finding ways to ensure that protection is not compromised by budget. www.lionapparel.co.uk
Emergency Services Times August 2010
Author: Joe Lake, Managing Director, Lion Apparel Systems (UK) Ltd. See us on Stand 51