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For subscriptions and advertising enquires, or for further information on the magazine visit our website at: firemiddleeastmag.com
INSIDER’S VIEW
The relentless pace of change in the fire industry is evident in daily news headlines, with AI and other technologies rapidly transforming the sector. This issue of Fire Middle East magazine delves into these advancements, exploring how AI can revolutionise fire detection and enhance response times. Turn to page 76 to hear from Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, VP – Health, Safety and Environment, King Salman International Complex, as he explores advanced fire detection, protection and prevention that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence.
We also turn our attention to the critical role of fire protection in the construction industry. As buildings become increasingly complex, robust fire protection systems are essential to safeguard lives and property. Fire safety solutions expert, Peter Stephenson writes about the need for proactive approaches for safer construction environments on page 33.
Additionally, we examine the environmental impact of construction and explore how sustainable fire protection solutions can contribute to a greener future. On page 36 Mark Fessenden, MD of the International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) highlights how their use can reduce harmful carbon emissions in the construction sector.
In this issue, we also address the mental health challenges faced by first responders, a topic of growing importance.
By shedding light on this issue, we aim to promote understanding, support and well-being within the fire service community. Bob Rea shares his thoughts on this sensitive topic on page 80.
Finally, we invite you to join us at Intersec 2025, the region’s leading trade fair for security, safety and fire protection. Our show guide, starting on page 93, highlights key conference sessions, exhibitor spotlights and why you should be there.
As we embark on a new year, the fire safety industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. The challenges we face are complex, but so too are the solutions we can implement. We hope this issue provides valuable insights and inspires you to embrace the future of fire safety. Myself and the team at Fire Middle East wish you a healthy, happy and prosperous 2025.
Cora Lydon Editor editor@firemiddleeast.co.uk
CONTENTS
REGULARS
03 Up front
Foreword from the Editor
06 Regional news
The latest regional fire safety and protection news
10 International news
Fire-related news and advancements from around the globe
12 Product showcase
Find out about who of the newest products to reach the market
18 Cover story: Bristol Fire Engineering
29 Sky High Safety
Learn more about Bristol Fire Engineering, the leading firefighting and fire protection manufacturer in the Middle East
114 Diary
Diary dates for forthcoming fire safety exhibitions, conferences and events
FEATURES
21 Fire Middle East Conference 2025
Find out who is on the Fire Middle East Conference Advisory Board – tasked with helping us shape and refine the look, feel and content of May’s conference
26 Sustainable Fire Safety in Aviation
John Olav Ottesen, Managing Director at Dafo Fomtec AB looks at fixed systems protecting hangars in the transition to environmentally-friendly firefighting foams
Fire protection and detection has a unique set of challenges when it comes to high-rise buildings. Peter Stephenson explores the solutions
33 Navigating Challenges and Charting a Secure Future
Fire safety solutions expert, Peter Stephenson, covers fire risks, hazards and awareness in the construction sector
36 Building Green, Building Safe
Fire protection systems have a vital role to play in helping to reduce the carbon emissions burden within the construction industry, according to Mark Fessenden, Managing Director of the International Fire Suppression Alliance
41 A Beacon of Safety and Innovation
Fire Middle East magazine speaks to Yousef Al Harmoodi, General Manager at Hassantuk, to find out more about the fire safety initiative six years on from its inception
48 A Century of Innovation
Securiton International’s Dominic Jeff takes us through fire detection technologies through the ages and asks whether the best is yet to come?
52 Trapped: The Perils of Confined Spaces
Find out more about the dangers of confined space rescue and the challenges it presents for responders, from Bob Rea
61 Sustainable Suppression
Stuart Phythian, from FireDos, explains how to navigate the transition to sustainable firefighting foams and how to ensure systems are compatible
65 The Hidden Value of Accessible Design
Oscar Wendel, Chairman, Global Stratalogues, reports from a recent roundtable on accessible design and how it can improve building safety in the UAE and GCC
69 How Codes and Standards and Fire Safety Product Development Work Together
Len Swantek, Director, Global Regulatory Compliance, Victaulic, sheds light on the crucial relationship the development of new fire products and technologies can have on codes and standards
73 Lessons in Flame
On the topic of passive fire protection, Brett Shinn, of Bell-Wright International Consultants, Dubai branch, considers how cladding can help or hinder a fire event
76 AI Ignites Fire Safety
Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, VP – Health, Safety and Environment at King Salman International Complex, looks at the use of artificial intelligence and how it can advance fire detection and prevention
80 Behind the Mask
Bob Rea, alongside his daughter, writes thoughtfully on the sensitive topic of mental health within the first responder community
87 IWMC to Return to the UK
The 24th International Water Mist Association’s Conference returns to the UK on 24-25 September this year
88 Case Study: BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems
We learn more about why the Fontainebleau Tower, in Miami, Florida, US, selected the BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler system
91 Fire Safety: A CustomerCentric Approach
Writing on behalf of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers, Richard King, highlights that customer satisfaction is an often overlooked component of effective fire safety
93 SPECIAL
94 Intersec 2025 preview
Intersec Dubai is the region’s leading trade fair for fire, safety and security, and offers the perfect platform for fire professionals to elevate their knowledge, network with industry leaders and discover cutting-edge technologies
98 Intersec 2025 Conference Sessions
Find out more what’s happening, when at this year’s show
101 Intersec exhibitors
Hear from some of the exhibitors who are at Intersec 2025 in Dubai
THIS ISSUE’S PARTNERS & CONTRIBUTORS
Bob Rea
Director, BR Training Solutions
Bob Rea, QFSM, MBA, MIFireE, MInstLM, TechIOSH, is a recognised and globally respected experienced emergency response professional with over 40 years of experience. He was awarded the Queens Fire Service Medal (QFSM) for his work leading the implementation of the UK National Urban Search and Rescue capability under the UK government’s New Dimension project.
Brett Shinn
Fire Testing Manager, Bell-Wright International Consultants, Dubai branch
Brett Shinn grew up between the US and Canada, before receiving his Engineering degree in Montreal, QC. His career history includes time spent working in Western Canada in Forestry as a tree-planter and in the oil fields doing Hydraulic Fracturing. He has been working in fire protection, specifically testing, for more than nine years and has been in Dubai since 2023.
Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi
VP – Health, Safety and Environment, King Salman International Complex
Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi is the Vice President for Health, Safety and Environment at King Salman International Complex, a large-scale development project in Saudi Arabia. He is a highly qualified professional with extensive experience and knowledge of the application of AI technologies.
Sponsors
INTERSEC 2025
Fire Middle East magazine is delighted to be attending Intersec 2025 in Dubai, the region’s premier event for the safety, security and fire industries. Our team will be on stand 6-A10/6-B09, so come along and chat with us about how we can help you increase your reach in the regional market. We will also be letting people know about our forthcoming conference, taking place in Riyadh in May. We look forward to seeing you there.
24 Advanced
44 Potter Global Technologies
96 Emergency One
SAUDI HOSTS FIRE & RESCUE WORLD CHAMPS
The International Sport Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers has conducted its 25th international conference, held in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia. The conference included visiting the proposed venues for the 2025 World Fire and Rescue Championship, which will be held in the Kingdom. A ceremony took place where Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil
Defense received the organisation’s flag, officially taking over from The People’s Republic of China, which hosted the event in 2024. The federation was established in 2001, has 32 member countries, and has held over 15 world championships. Competitions include tower climbing, 400m relays, 100m sprints and firefighting events.
4TH INTERNATIONAL IFOC IN RIYADH
The 4th International Fire Operations Conference & Exhibition (IFOC) event has been held in Riyadh under the patronage of Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz. The event, which took place at the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh, was organised by the General Directorate of Civil Defense, Saudi Aramco and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. The conference is an exclusive platform to gather leaders and professionals from across industries, government, academia and communities to network and deliberate upon best practices, share knowledge, and showcase advanced technological innovations in the field of fire, emergency response, crisis management and safety.
NFPA names manager for Saudi Arabia fire safety initiatives Sharjah Safety Forum
Zahi Daher has been named as the new Manager of International Business Development for Saudi Arabia with the NFPA. His main role will be advancing the implementation of fire and life safety standards in Saudi Arabia, which will be extensively transformed as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Daher boasts an extensive career history in fire protection, business development and standards management. He worked as Regional Standards Manager for the MENA at UL Standards & Engagement, developing strategic relationships with governmental bodies, regulators and industry associations. He joins Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development for the MENA region.
The launch of the second edition of the Sharjah Facilities Safety Forum has been hailed as a great success. This year carries a slogan of awareness and the latest technologies in the field of fighting and extinguishing fires and annual maintenance.
His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Prevention and Safety Authority, stressed the importance of raising safety levels and stimulating interaction between the government and private sectors. Engineer Saeed Salem Al Tunaiji, Director of Special Projects at Saned, spoke of his happiness in participating in the forum stating that Saned has an important role and a strategic partnership with the Sharjah Prevention and Safety Authority in two prominent projects; the Aman project for early fire detection and the Salama project for preventative training in occupational health and safety.
Low-viscosity Fluorine Free Foams (F3) and C6 based fluorinated eco-friendly foams are just part of our industry leading range of specialist fire-fighting foams. Visit the website to find out more about our complete product range, including Standard and AR type foams suitable for hydrocarbon and polar solvent fires.
INTERSEC AWARDS 2025
Over 1,400 entries have been received for the Intersec Awards 2025. Entries were received across a wide range of 15 categories under the categories of Fire and Safety, Security and Industry.
This will be the 4th consecutive year of the awards, which celebrate and recognise the excellence of individuals, teams and organisations in the security, safety and fire prevention sectors. The winners will be announced at the Intersec 2025 Awards Gala Dinner on the 15th of January, which returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre as part of Intersec 2025.
The Intersec event will run from the 14th – 16th of January and is expected to be the largest edition in its history with over 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries.
Kuwait real estate company conducts emergency fire drill
Mock fire evacuation drills have been carried out by the Al Hamra Real Estate Company, to reinforce safety measures and plans for tenants, employees and visitors to the Al Hamra Tower. The drill focused on certain tower floors under the oversight of the Civil Defense, Kuwait Fire Service Directorate, Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Health.
It simulated an emergency fire scenario, during which over 1,000 individuals were safely evacuated from the building under the supervision of the rapid response team. A spokesman said the drill “underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property in alignment with Kuwait’s national safety regulations and ISO standards, alongside global Quality, Health, Safety and Environment (QHSE) protocols.”
BAHRAIN’S REEL
CINEMAS
UPDATES FIRE SAFETY SYSTEM
Reel Cinemas in Bahrain has upgraded its fire safety system by installing the Axis AX fire alarm system from Advanced. The system is compliant with UL 864 10th Edition, and is designed to address challenges in complex venues. The system boasts the ability to integrate seamlessly with pre-existing systems and is easily scalable. Sargunan Sellamuthu, Advanced’s Business Development Manager for the Middle East, said: “This project highlights the system’s ability to manage complex environments, easily integrating with other critical building systems while offering the flexibility to meet the unique demands of an entertainment venue.”
Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority awarded
The Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority (ADCDA) has been recognised at the HR Excellence Awards 2024 in Singapore. The Silver award for Excellence in Business Transformation highlights ADCDA’s implementation of the T-SAT training initiative, which advances the capabilities and skills of civil defense personnel at all levels, and reflects the authority’s commitment to workforce development and excellence.
The award was received by the Director of the Resources and Support Services Centre at ADCDA, His Excellency Brigadier Suwaidan Saad bin Dhahia Al Ameri. He told the attendees that the award enhances the Authority’s commitment to providing the best training programmes and development initiatives that aim to raise the level of readiness and professionalism among its cadres.
FIREX Egypt’s 4th edition has taken place in Cairo. The event, which aims to connect industry leaders in Egypt’s fire safety industry, explores cutting-edge products and solutions across passive fire protection, prevention and detection, and provides a networking opportunity for manufacturers, distributors, installers, integrators, project managers, consultants and end-users.
NEW REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE SAFETY IN KUWAIT
New requirements will be implemented for investment buildings in Kuwait as announced by Major General Khaled Fahad, Head of the Kuwait Fire Force.
A project is also underway to connect these buildings to the force’s main operations room, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year, according to Al Rai newspaper.
The new requirements being implemented include the installation of fire sprinklers in all new investment housing – previously this only applied to buildings over 10 stories high.
The Major General also observed that there had been a decrease in fires due to increased citizen awareness, as well as changes and adherences to the buildings code.
OMAN SECURITY & SAFETY EXPO
The 8th incarnation of the Oman Security, Safety and Fire Exhibition (OFSEC) has taken place at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. Praise has been given to the diversity of the participating companies from many countries, and the strong representation of Omani youth in the sector. The event was inaugurated by H E Dr Ali bin Masoud al Sunaidi,
Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), who stressed the critical need for training personnel to effectively utilise modern security technologies. Over 80 local companies participated in this year’s event, with companies from 20 other countries participating, showcasing their products to the sector.
Fire at Iran’s Natanz nuclear site
Sabotage has been blamed for a fire at Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, according to a spokesman for Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation.
The Natanz uranium-enrichment site, much of which is underground, is one of several Iranian facilities monitored by inspectors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN nuclear watchdog. “The explosion at Natanz nuclear facility was a result of sabotage operations, security authorities will reveal in due time the reason behind the blast,” Reuters quoted Behrouz Kamalvandi as saying.
Iranian officials said the fire had caused significant damage that could slow the development of advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges.
Graduation for 98 Foundation Firefighter course students
A Class of 98 participants of Abu Dhabi’s Foundation Firefighting course (NFPA) recently graduated at the Civil Defense Academy headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
The internationally recognised programme is accredited by the International Conference on Accreditation of Firefighting Services, and combines theoretical knowledge and practical training in firefighting and rescue operations, and also covers the handling of hazardous materials and responding to natural disasters. Major General Dr Jassim Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Commander-inChief of Civil Defense, presided over the graduation ceremony.
Graduates are equipped with advanced skills and practical expertise to enhance emergency response capabilities and reduce their impact.
ECUADOR WILDFIRES
SOUTH AMERICA
Ecuador has declared a 60-day national emergency due to water shortages, drought and forest fires which have destroyed more than 10,000 hectares in the country’s south. Air support has been provided by Peru and Italy to help manage the fires, with an Italian private enterprise – run by the Italian Embassy – providing a helicopter to join the firefighting teams in the province of Azuay.
STUDY INTO EVACUATION OF BLENDED-WING BODY AIRCRAFT
EUROPE
The University of Greenwich and Cranfield University in the UK have partnered to study the evacuation needs for a prototype Blended-Wing Body (BWB) aircraft. The world recently saw how efficient evacuation of an aircraft saved lives at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan, after a collision with two aircraft caused an Airbus A350 to catch fire on landing.
US fire fighters honoured for bravery
NORTH AMERICA
Twenty-four firefighters from FDNY and New Jersey have been honoured for their response to the Port Newark cargo ship fire, which claimed the lives of two Newark firefighters. The first responders were honoured for their heroism at the 37th Annual Valor Awards hosted by Cooperman Barnabas at The Grove in Cedar Grove. Many of the survivors and firefighters of the fire sustained severe burns, and the event itself helped raise funds for the Burns Unit at Cooperman Barnabas medical centre. The incident took place aboard the Grande Costa D’Avorio in July 2023.
Airline staff carried out a textbook evacuation in this instance – but in BWB aircraft there is no clear divide between the wings and the main body of the plane, so passenger seating will be arranged differently from current established airliner designs.
A series of trials are planned in a full-sized prototype where participants
will take their seats, receive a pre-flight safety briefing from crew and will then be instructed to evacuate due to an unspecified emergency. The study will help improve aircraft evacuations and provide information about how people behave while evacuating, which could be used on standard aircraft, as well as any BWB aircraft which come to market.
AI battery fire detection system
NORTH AMERICA
An AI research team in America has developed an AI that can detect when a lithium-ion battery is about to catch fire. Researchers Wai Cheong Tam and Anthony Putorti from the National Institute of Standards and Technology in America observed the safety valve of a battery lot makes a distinctive ‘click-hiss’ sound, similar to the fizzy pop of a soda bottle, when a battery slot breaks due to excessive heat.
Using this knowledge the researchers developed an algorithm to detect this specific noise. Once the detector is fully developed, it could be used to build a new kind of fire alarm, giving advanced warning for these specific fires, allowing people time to evacuate. The news comes as South Africa fire and rescue teams have mounted their biggest rescue from Table Mountain in 64 years, as a lithium-ion battery fire caused tourists to be trapped in a cable car.
TELEDYNE FLIR LAUNCHES ITS HAZARDOUS LOCATION ACOUSTIC IMAGING PRODUCT
Teledyne FLIR has launched the FLIR Si2xPro Hazardous Location Acoustic Imaging Camera, designed for detecting gas leaks, mechanical faults and partial discharges. This camera is specifically engineered for use in hazardous gas and explosive dust environments, enabling the detection of toxic or flammable gas leaks to improve
safety and reduce costs associated with compressed air or gas leaks in facilities. It offers best-in-class performance, decision support, fleet management capabilities, and enterprise data integration for optimal efficiency and safety. flir.co.uk
Vertiv introduces fully populated, high power density lithium battery cabinets
Vertiv has introduced Vertiv™ EnergyCore battery cabinets, which are factory assembled with LFP (LithiumIron-Phosphate) battery modules along with Vertiv’s internally-powered battery management system.
Vertiv EnergyCore cabinets are available globally for use with most current and legacy three-phase Vertiv™ uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, including the recently launched Vertiv™ Trinergy™.
The cabinets are optimised for five minutes end-oflife runtime at 263kWb per compact, 24" wide (600mm) cabinet, and operate across a wide temperature range, making them suitable for high-density environments.
The integrated battery management system is powered by the Vertiv EnergyCore batteries, removing the requirement for an external power source and simplifying installation.
It provides lifetime onboard data storage, tracking performance over battery charge-discharge cycles, service events, and enables accurate state-of-health reports that can be used for warranty support and predictive analytics.
Remote battery monitoring is also available via Vertiv™ Alber™ Battery Xplorer Enterprise. Vertiv.com
PLUMIS ACHIEVES UL CERTIFICATION FOR AUTOMIST
Plumis has achieved a significant milestone with its Automist system, now the world’s first targeted residential water mist fire protection system to gain thirdparty certification under UL2167A.
This certificate will be officially presented to Plumis by Patrick Abgrall, UL’s Regional General Manager EMEA, Built Environment at the UL Solutions Safety Pavilion at Intersec 2025, held in Dubai on the 14th of January at 10am.
The event provides an ideal platform to celebrate Plumis’ achievement and showcase the groundbreaking research and testing undertaken with UL.
UL Solutions provides independent certifications that demonstrate products meet rigorous safety and quality standards.
This certification for Automist represents a new era in residential fire protection, following seven years of dedicated research and development, plus an investment of US$6 million from Plumis.
It also marks one of the most rigorous testing processes ever undertaken in home fire suppression, paving the way for Automist’s adoption internationally in line with NFPA 750 standards for water mist fire protection.
William Makant, Plumis CEO, said: “We are delighted to be receiving the certificate from UL in a special ceremony which demonstrates the significance of this achievement. We are also very much looking forward to showcasing our new system at UL’s Safety Pavilion during Intersec.” plumis.com
Industrial and marine notification solutions
High output, robust audible and visual warning signals for demanding environments
The AlertAlarm range of alarm horn sounders are the next generation of audible signals for fire alarm notification in industrial and harsh environments
The robust thermoplastic or aluminum enclosures are rated Type 4/4X and capable of alarm tone sound output of up to 124dB(A). The compact Xenon strobe and LED multifunction beacons can be installed as standalone visual signals or combined with an audible alarm device
UL, cUL, ULC and DNV approved for industrial or marine fire applications, the AlertAlarm range is also MED and CPR compliant (EN54-3 & EN54-23). All signals feature low current consumption and E2S auto-synchronization technology.
www.e2s.com
(281) 377 4401
MAGIRUS LAUNCHES NEW FIREFIGHTING AIRPORT VEHICLE
NEO is a new airport firefighting vehicle designed specifically for fire brigades.
With powerful Euro 6 engines and the Magirus DynamicEdge design, the DRAGON X6 NEO aims to set new benchmarks in performance and safety.
The vehicle is equipped with Cursor 13 engines, incorporates a modern electronic braking system and an electronic stability programme (ESP). In addition, the EasyOperator humanmachine interface (HMI) – with larger display – significantly improves driver-friendliness. According to Thomas Hilse, CEO of Magirus, the new HMI allows the vehicle crew to easily access all controls, enhancing overall driver comfort. This interface will be implemented across all Magirus product lines in the future.
The DRAGON X6 NEO features a completely revised front section that emphasises its dynamic appearance and extends to the rear. With the integration of FleetConnect, it provides fleet management options for optimised coordination and maintenance of emergency vehicles.
The new DRAGON X6 NEO will be available for order from Q2 2025.
Marc Kuntz, Director of Sales & Customer Service, stated: “The new design and innovations of the Dragon X6 Neo will be incorporated into the entire airfield firefighting vehicle family starting in the second quarter of 2025.” magirusgroup.com/de/de/home/
Teledyne GFD introduces Teledyne GDCloud™
Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection (Teledyne GFD) has introduced its proprietary Teledyne GDCloud™
This new cloud solution is compatible with the company’s portable gas leak detectors, including the GS700, GS500, and Shipsurveyor models, as well as the PS200 portable four-gas monitor designed for personal safety and confined space applications.
The integration of cloud connectivity significantly improves the gas leak detection process by visualising all instrument data and transforming it into actionable business insights.
Teledyne GDCloud™ elevates gas detection measurement by recording hazardous events, ensuring regulatory compliance, and streamlining safety programmes. One of its most powerful features is the ability to visualise detailed gas sensor readings from field sessions.
Users can track the route taken by each technician during investigations using the advanced location mapping functionality, which enables breadcrumb mapping to show the precise locations corresponding to all gas readings logged by the GS700 detector.
This location intelligence is invaluable for pinpointing leaks, analysing hazards, and documenting sources of emissions.
Additionally, users can interact with dynamic charts and tabulated data displays to gain further insights into field activities and events.
Notably, the system prioritises alarms, allowing ‘important and urgent’ data to be addressed before lower-level risks.
“Stringent record-keeping is crucial for demonstrating regulatory compliance with gas safety protocols,” said Nick Wood, Global Marketing Director at Teledyne GFD.
“Teledyne GDCloud™ securely stores comprehensive calibration data records for every detector. Users can easily access and document an instrument’s recent operational history, including all past calibration readings, bump test status, the technicians involved, and any relevant service notes, creating a meticulous audit trail with simple reporting at the touch of a button.” teledynegasandflamedetection.com/en-us
The new DRAGON X6
Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection unveils the DAF-100 G2
Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection has unveiled the DAF-100 G2, a control unit that functions as both a control panel and an alarm system.
Designed specifically for fire suppression systems on heavyduty vehicles in high-risk industries, the DAF-100 G2 offers an entry-level, all-in-one solution that simplifies installation, enhances performance, and incorporates advanced features to meet the demands of today’s environments.
The DAF-100 G2 is engineered to save installation time while providing reliable backup power through supercapacitors, which can sustain operation for up to 24 hours.
Alphasense launches a new and improved Long-Life LFO2 Oxygen Sensor
Alphasense has announced the launch of the re-engineered Alphasense’s Long-Life LFO2 Oxygen Sensor, delivering enhanced performance for a variety of critical applications. The LFO2 series includes three purpose-built models:
• The LFO2-A1, which measures oxygen concentrations from 0-30 per cent.
• The LFO2-AL, which is optimised to measure oxygen concentrations from 0-95 per cent with lower power consumption.
• The LFO2-AH, which is tailored for detecting minimal oxygen levels, ranging from 0-2 per cent.
The device offers reliable measurements across different oxygen ranges with consistent accuracy plus enhanced durability due to the sensor being redesigned with robust materials for extended performance in demanding environments. The LFO2 sensors work well with industrial processes and environmental monitoring to deliver dependable performance. alphasense.com
With built-in sounder and shutdown relay capabilities, this unit ensures timely alerts and automatic shutdowns in the event of a fire, maximising vehicle safety.
“Our customers require fire suppression solutions that are both easy to install and highly configurable to meet specific needs,” said Marcello Sanchez, Business Line Manager for Mining & Construction at Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection. “The DAF-100 G2 delivers on both fronts with its versatile fieldconfigurable system, robust protection features, and electromagnetic immunity.”
Key features of the DAF-100 G2 include a compact, efficient solution that reduces installation time, powered by supercapacitors, providing up to 24 hours of emergency backup operation; immediate alerts and shutdown capability for enhanced safety; and easy configuration using five external LEDs allowing for up to 32 different settings without the need for hardware changes. Options include motor stop and time delay settings and more. It is designed to withstand harsh conditions, with full protection against dust and water intrusion and along with its exceptional performance in environments with high electromagnetic interference, it is ideal for hybrid and electric vehicles.
dafo-vehicle.com
TYCO LAUNCHES THE DRY-TYPE PENDENT SPRINKLER
Tyco has launched the Model ESFR-25 Dry Type Sprinkler, a solution for ceiling-only fire protection tailored specifically for refrigerated storage areas.
This model offers an effective alternative to traditional in-rack sprinklers, making it ideal for safeguarding solid piled, palletised and rack storage in freezing conditions.
The ESFR-25 is designed to operate under extreme temperatures, providing reliable protection in environments as low as -60°F (-51°C). It is specifically engineered for cold storage protection and has met rigorous safety and quality standards.
Utilising a wet pipe system sourced from outside the refrigerated storage area, the sprinkler ensures optimal performance while maintaining the integrity of stored goods.
It is available in Ordinary (165°F/74°C) and Intermediate (212°F/ 100°C) ratings which are designed with threaded (1 1/4" NPT and ISO 7-1) and grooved (2") connections for easy installation. tyco-fire.com
*selected models
WATER DRIVEN PUMP PROPORTIONERS FOR FIRE FIGHTING
FIREMIKS For Industrial and Sprinkler Firefighting
Piston pumps (-PP) are well suited for systems with wide flow range, for example sprinkler systems. Gear pumps (-GP) are particularly suited for working in deluge installations and with large flow monitors.
FIREMIKS Mobile unit for Fire Brigades
The FIREMIKS system provides firefighters with a versatile and adaptable tool for a wide range of firefighting scenarios. FIREMIKS works within a wide pressure and flow range giving a precise and steady dosing rate.
EASY TO INSTALLEASY TO OPERATEEASY TO TEST
COMPACT DOSING SYSTEM, NO NEED FOR PRESSURE TANK OR ADDITIONAL ENERGY SUPPLY.
RELIABLE MECHANICAL PROPORTIONER, DRIVEN BY THE WATER FLOW ONLY, NO NEED FOR PRESSURE BALANCING OR CALIBRATION.
ECONOMICAL AND ENVIRONMENTALLY BENEFICIAL TESTING WITH A DOSING RETURN VALVE AND TWO SEPARATE FLOW METERS.
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF FIRE SAFETY
As the leading regional event for fire safety professionals we’re committed to delivering cutting-edge insights and practical solutions. Helping us achieve just this is our esteemed advisory board.
To ensure the highest quality content and address the most pressing industry challenges, we’ve assembled a distinguished Advisory Board comprising leading global experts in fire safety. Our board members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, shaping the conference agenda and contributing to insightful discussions.
Each member plays a crucial role in shaping the direction and content of the Fire Middle East Conference. Composed of renowned industry authorities in the fire safety industry, they provide invaluable insights and guidance to ensure the conference remains at the forefront of industry trends.
The Advisory Board will be involved in:
Curating Content
The Advisory Board helps curate a comprehensive agenda, identifying key topics and trends that are relevant to the fire safety community. They draw on many decades of experience within the industry to ensure timely and valuable topics for our audience.
Selecting Speakers
Our board help us in selecting renowned experts and thought leaders to deliver keynote speeches and panel discussions. They give the industry a voice on who they would find most inspirational to see, and who can add real value to the conference.
Ensuring Relevance
The board ensures that the conference content aligns with the latest industry developments and addresses the evolving challenges faced by fire safety professionals.
Fostering Collaboration
By bringing together diverse perspectives, the Advisory Board facilitates networking opportunities and fosters collaboration among attendees. This is a key part of the conference and so a vital role for our board to play.
Setting the Future Agenda
The board helps to identify emerging trends and future challenges, shaping the direction of the fire safety industry. Our goal is to grow the conference year-on-year so it is essential our Advisory Board thinks about the longer journey we are on.
By leveraging the expertise of our Advisory Board, we are committed to delivering a world-class conference that empowers attendees with the knowledge and tools they need to excel in their field.
MEET THIS YEAR’S ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Our Advisory Board is composed of renowned experts from diverse backgrounds, including fire protection engineers, researchers, industry leaders and consultants. They represent a wide range of disciplines, ensuring that the conference covers a comprehensive spectrum of fire safety topics.
Khalid Almandil DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, FIRE & LIFE SAFETY, RED SEA GLOBAL
Khalid Almandil is a Senior Director in the Fire & Life Safety field with vast experience in the oil & gas, construction and project management, handling projects from the Masterplan phase till handover to Operations. He is a professional Engineer and Consultant in the fire protection engineering field accredited by the Saudi Council of Engineers and holds a Master of Engineering degree in Fire Protection Engineering.
Almandil is skilled in emergency management, fire emergency response and leading fire departments from a strategic perspective. He is a strategic planner with various leadership programmes from prestigious institutes including Wharton Business School (US), Royal Military Academy (UK) and the Justice Institute of British Columbia (Canada).
Bob Rea
TRAINING CONSULTANT, BR TRAINING SOLUTIONS LTD
Robert (Bob) Rea, QFSM, MBA, MIFireE, MInstLM, TechIOSH, is a recognised and globally respected experienced emergency response professional with over 40 years of experience. He was awarded the Queens Fire Service Medal (QFSM) for his work leading the implementation of the UK National Urban Search and Rescue capability under the United Kingdom government’s New Dimension project.
He is a recognised and accomplished operational commander, trained and operated to Gold/Strategic level command and holds a portfolio of specialist competences, including: incident command, National Inter-agency Liaison Officer (NILO), Hazardous Materials and Environmental Protection Officer (HMEPO), hazard and risk management, risk assessment and event investigation.
Our sponsors for 2025
Sandy Dweik CEO, THOMAS-BELL WRIGHT INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS
Dweik is an Architectural Engineer with over 25 years of experience in the testing, inspection and certification (TIC) industry.
As the leader of one of the few companies worldwide that provides TIC capabilities of passive fire protection elements, Thomas Bell-Wright, she brings forth a unique technical insight paired with an understanding of the rapidly developing MENA market. Over the past decades, Dweik has contributed to increasing market awareness and engaged with numerous stakeholders to identify the most effective methods for fostering a safer built environment.
Mezher Al-Qahtani
VP FIRE PROTECTION ADVISOR, SAUDI ARAMCO
Mezher Al-Qahtani joined Saudi Aramco in January 1991. Throughout his career he has gained expertise in various areas such as industrial and structural firefighting, hazardous materials handling, rescue operations, critical stress management and scene management. Al-Qahtani is recognised as a Fire Protection Specialist. He has attained the Chief Fire Officer designation and is also a Certified Trauma Responder. He has contributed extensively to the fields of fire protection and training for many years.
He currently holds the position of the Advisor of the Vice President of Fire Protection and the chairman of Fire Protection Governance and is an esteemed member of the Society of Fire Protection Engineering and the National Association of Fire Investigators. His educational achievements include a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Leicester University in the UK, a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Safety Studies from JIBC in Canada, an Associate Degree in Municipal Fire Protection from OSU, and a Fire Leadership Diploma from JIBC in Canada.
Vinay Deshpande
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, FIRE & LIFE SAFETY, WSP MIDDLE EAST LIMITED
Deshpande is a Technical Director at Fire & Life Safety at WSP Middle East Limited. He is a highly experienced Fire Protection Engineer with over 35 years of building systems engineering experience – 30 years of which has been in the fire protection industry with major fire protection companies including reputable multinational fire engineering and multi-disciplinary consulting firms.
For the last 25 years, he has been actively involved in assisting clients and architectural teams in finalising fire strategies for their developments, supporting code compliance and authority approval issues. His vast practical knowledge gained in fire protection systems has helped many projects rationalise system designs that are efficient and effective.
Peter Stephenson FIRE SAFETY EXPERT
Stephenson’s considerable experience in fire safety engineering and rail infrastructure projects include working as a Business Development Manager at Warringtonfire, Associate Director at Buro Happold, Senior Fire Safety Engineer for Network Rail, Fire Safety Officer for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, a Director of Fire Engineering at Stantec, and as a consultant in both large multi-disciplinary and small independent practices.
He is actively involved within the international fire safety community, formerly Treasurer of the Railway Industry Fire Association (RIFA) and former Finance Director of the International Aviation Fire Protection Association (IAFPA). Stephenson regularly contributes to regional journals, including Fire Middle East magazine and is a presenter at Middle East and international conferences.
Faris Alzahrani
HEALTH, SAFETY AND SECURITY MANAGER, NATIONAL WATER COMPANY
Faris Alzahrani is a fire safety professional with 11 years academic and industrial experience, specialising in building codes and standards, design and analysis of life safety, as well as the management of security operations, fire and occupational health and safety.
He is a registered Associate Fire Engineer, Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) and Fire Inspector (CFI-I). He is also an ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 Lead Auditor. His experience encompasses a broad spectrum of projects, ranging from industrial fire protection, to the development of an occupational health and safety management system. He currently holds a record of training 1,055 hours in different subjects.
Cora Lydon EDITOR, FIRE MIDDLE EAST MAGAZINE
Cora Lydon, Editor of Fire Middle East magazine, has been instrumental in shaping the publication into a leading voice for the Fire & Safety industry in the Middle East. With years of experience in journalism and an understanding of the region’s fire and safety landscape, Cora is committed to delivering high-quality content that addresses the evolving needs of c-suite decision makers and industry professionals. As a member of the Advisory Board, Cora will leverage her expertise to help drive the strategic direction of the Fire Middle East Conference, ensuring it remains a premier platform for knowledge sharing and networking.
The Fire Middle East Conference is taking place on May 14 2025 and will be held at the prestigious VOCO Hotel Riyadh.
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Integrated UL Fire Safety Systems Take Centre Stage
With the Middle East’s skyline transforming through the rapid rise in the number of tall buildings, Sasi Kumar, Advanced’s General Manager for the Middle East, explains how UL approved fire safety systems are gaining in popularity providing a solution that suits both high-rise residential applications and large commercial sites, as well as offering vital voice evacuation and smoke control.
Over the past few decades, the Middle East has seen unprecedented development including a significant rise in tall buildings, with the UAE now boasting more than 325 buildings over 150m in height. Alongside this new highrise skyline has come an acceleration in demand for fire alarm systems to protect inhabitants, with UL fire safety systems gaining significant popularity in the region. Fortunately, Advanced’s networked systems are fully scalable to suit virtually any application including high-rise and ‘campus’ style configurations.
A versatile fire alarm system, Advanced’s Axis AX, approved to UL 864 10th Edition, combines addressable panels, the latest in sensor technology meeting 7th Edition, CO devices, audio Systems and command centres delivering high performance, quality and ease of use. Its powerful networking capabilities, extensive configuration options and comprehensive cause-and-effect programming put end-users in complete control of their fire alarm system. Axis AX can deliver fast, reliable communications from a two-panel network up to a large 200-node network. Very few manufacturers can offer the capacity to connect up to 200 panels, making the Axis AX ideal for small and large projects.
The Axis AX was deployed to protect the Marassi Galleria Shopping Mall in Bahrain, with 47 panels integrated with voice evacuation systems, amplifiers and firefighter telephones. This highlights the
demand for high-performance, centralised solutions that combine fire detection, voice evacuation and smoke control in a single system.
Voice Evacuation
The rise of high-rise buildings, often exceeding 80 floors, presents unique fire safety challenges that Axis AX addresses with robust voice evacuation capabilities. The flexible Axis AX therefore offers critical voice evacuation with integrated audio for automatic (and manual) fire alarm signalling and live voice paging during emergencies.
With 16 pre-recorded messages and multilingual support, Axis AX operates autonomously or in tandem with fire brigade communication systems. The fire and emergency telephone system identifies the location of field telephone users during emergencies since users can plug a telephone into an Axis AX fire panel to communicate the situation on a given floor to aid in evacuation.
Audio issues during voice evacuations, such as overlapping messages, are also resolved with the Axis AX’s PerfectSync, which ensures seamless audio synchronisation across the network. This capability delivers fast, clear messaging even across large systems of up to 200 panels, enabling safer, more efficient evacuations in high-rise buildings, shopping centres and universities.
Smoke Control
Smoke control has become another vital feature of fire alarm technology, since smoke inhalation is the primary cause of fire-related deaths. Delivering ultimate peace of mind, Advanced’s Axis AX features an innovative smoke control approach with its DynamixSmoke and is approved to UL864 standards and complies with UUKL requirements.
DynamixSmoke gives complete and active control of fans and dampers from the fire system, simplifying smoke
control with a four-step grid-based configuration process that saves setup time and provides a clear overview. Listed for both dedicated and non-dedicated applications, it provides automatic and manual options for controlling fans and dampers.
Offering quick, clear configuration of smoke compartments across sites, DynamixSmoke also provides autoconfiguration of fan and damper interfaces and simple cause and effect programming. In addition, it offers complete customised control, including post-alarm purge, cascade options, interlocks, sequential fan restart, automatic testing and stairwell pressurisation, helping control smoke and airflow for safe evacuation.
With accelerating high-rise development, demand for integrated fire safety systems has never been higher. Advanced’s Axis AX addresses these needs by combining voice evacuation, fire detection and smoke control into a robust, centralised platform. Offering unparalleled customisation and control, Axis AX is uniquely equipped to support the region’s growing high-rise sector and the complex safety challenges it presents.
To find out more about Advanced’s full range of solutions and live demonstrations, visit us at Intersec, 14-16 January 2025 on stand F22, Hall 4 or visit www.advancedco.com
more.
Effectively protecting people and property from fire can be complex. Advanced simplifies the challenge without compromising on safety.
Whether you need powerful networking, smoke control and fire audio for large-scale UL projects; extinguishing control and fire system redundancy for critical sites; or fast, fuss-free EN solutions for smaller, wireless installations, Advanced brings you fire safety peace of mind.
SUSTAINABLE FIRE SAFETY IN AVIATION
John Olav Ottesen, Managing Director at Dafo Fomtec AB, looks at transitioning to environmentally responsible firefighting foams at airports in the MENA region with a focus on fixed systems protecting hangars
Since my article in the July issue that focused on the Fire & Rescue Services (ARFF), we have seen new EU legislation come into force in September this year restricting PFHxA. EU 2024/2462. In Annex XVII to Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 entries were added in relation to Civil Aviation as follows:
5. Shall not from 10 October 2029 be placed on the market, or used, in firefighting foams and foam concentrates for civil aviation (including in civilian airports) in a concentration equal to or greater than 25 ppb for the sum of PFHxA and its salts, or 1,000 ppb for the sum of PFHxA – related substances.
Clarification on the above point through Germany, Sweden and the UK has indicated that the above covers NOT only the Fire & Rescue Services (ARFF) but also Hangars and Fuel Storage if these sit within the airport boundaries. Whilst the transition deadline was expected for the ARFF mission, for the fixed systems in the hangars and fuel storage this has come earlier than expected as it was thought that these applications would only be covered as part of the pending PFAS in firefighting foam legislation!
For hangars the most common foam agent deployed is AFFF, either in foam deluge plus underwing, or to provide coverage of the floor area when a high-level water (sprinkler) system is deployed. High Expansion foam concentrates typically are not manufactured with fluorochemicals that can degrade to PFHxA, but potential exists for contamination if the original
foam concentrate was blended by the manufacturer in the same tanks as were used for foam concentrates containing the FTS 6:2 fluorotelomer.
Whether a new build or transitioning to fluorine free foam concentrate, effective fire protection should be ensured by selecting appropriate design standards. Factory Mutual (FM) occupancy data sheet 93-7, or UFC 4-211 for US Military Hangars outlines minimum requirements for system design. The most common design standard for hangars is NFPA 409. The latest 2022 edition of NFPA 409, however, does not yet include SFFF as a permitted foam type. There are several foam concentrates, including the Enviro USP from Fomtec, available on the market that meet many of the same standards as the fluorinated foams.
Proving enviro USP as a suitable AFFF alternative in hangar protection
Whilst we are waiting for the 2026 edition of NFPA 409 where we expect the use of SFFF to be addressed, Fomtec, in cooperation with Messrs. Viking, has progressed the testing and approvals for Enviro USP with foam/water sprinklers, monitors and grate nozzles to cover the requirements for foam systems in hangars. UL Listings and FM approvals are in place that allow deployment of Enviro USP under NFPA 11 – 1.2.2.
High-level foam water deluge / closed head foam water systems As per NFPA 409, Foam Water Deluge is a suitable primary protection and is
commonly used in Group I and II Hangars. Minimum application rates of 0.16 gpm/ ft2 (6.5 lpm/m2) are allowed with AFFF and non-aspirated sprinklers, and 0.20 gpm/ ft2 (8.2 lpm/m2) when using aspirating sprinklers. Proving the suitability of Enviro USP required testing and approving the foam concentrate foam water sprinklers from Viking according to UL 162 and FM 5130 test protocols.
Testing to FM 5130 test protocols allows testing and approving on heptane or other hydrocarbons at a minimum test density of 0.20 gpm/ft2 which was carried out successfully, initially on heptane with the K5.6 (K80) heads with the approved details as above. As Jet A1 has a vapour pressure greater than heptane, to get an FM approval on Jet A1 further testing with this fuel is required and testing with K5.6 (K80) pendant sprinklers was also successfully carried out (above).
It is worth noting that a difference between FM 5130 and UL 162 is that testing takes place at both a low and high level with FM, whereas UL uses a fixed height of between 14 ft (4.3 m) and 15 ft (4.6 m) (depending on whether upright or pendant heads being tested).
Obtaining the FM 5130 approvals alone threw up an interesting challenge as most of the Foam Water Deluge systems and Group II hangars with closed head foam systems are designed with an application density of 0.16 gpm/ft2 (6.5 lpm/m2) and the approvals with FM are at 0.20 gpm/ ft2 (8.2 lpm/m2) so additional testing and listing to UL 162 was done. Under UL 162 the test fuel used for any hydrocarbon fuel is heptane and test density is 0.10 gpm/ft2 (4.1 lpm/m2) which upon a successful pass leads to a minimum design density of 0.16 gpm/ft2 (6.5 lpm/m2).
Earlier this year Fomtec and Viking completed the UL 162 testing with heptane with pendant K5.6 (K80) sprinklers so that the Enviro USP along with the Viking VK1021 & VK3021 are listed with a minimum design density of 0.16 gpm/ft2 (6.5 lpm/m2). Aware of the differences between heptane and Jet A1,
Fomtec and Viking carried out the same UL 162 testing on Jet A1 with the same sprinklers leading to a UL listing with Jet A1 at the same minimum design density of 0.16 gpm/ft2 (6.5 lpm/m2).
Fomtec then went further and also ran tests with the UL 162 grid and the K5.6 (K80) pendant sprinklers at approximately 40 ft (14 m) with Jet A1 at the minimum design density to prove extinguishment and burnback closer to the real world elevation of aircraft hangars (the 14m elevation is the maximum height that can be run in the test facility). This is another test outside the standard parameters providing further data that allows Fomtec and Viking to confidently propose Enviro USP with the Viking K5.6 heads at a minimum design density of 0.16 gpm/ft2 (6.5 lpm/m2) for this application.
Low-level secondary foam system for use as underwing coverage or full floor area coverage options:
i. Oscillating Monitors:
As per NFPA 11 although the hazard in a hangar would be regarded as a SPILL fire, minimum application density for a type III application with SFFF is 0.16 gpm/ft2 (6.5 lpm/ft2). This obviously represents a 60% increase over the application density of 0.10 gpm/ft2 (4.1 lpm/m2) allowed with film-forming foams.
Enviro USP has been tested and listed to UL 162 with the 2.5” monitors from KCA / Viking with their KNN nozzles at 100 psi (7 bar inlet) to give flows of 250 gpm (approx. 950 lpm), 350 gpm (approx. 1,325 lpm) or 500 gpm (approx. 1,895 lpm). This testing and listing means that the foam qualities achieved from the monitors and nozzles at the pressure and flow match those tested in a UL 162 Type III top side test.
ii. Grate (Trench Nozzles)
Grate or trench nozzles provide discreet foam application and are typically installed inside drainage trenches. Application densities allowed with AFFF are 0.10 gpm/ft2 (4.1 lpm/m2). Viking has
tested and approved with FM the grate nozzles with USP so systems deploying this system can do so based on the same minimum application density as AFFF.
iii. High Expansion Foam Systems
As mentioned previously, high expansion foam systems should be largely unaffected by PFAS legislation as most high expansion foams deployed in hangars do not contain fluorinated surfactants. For new systems, Fomtec’s LSxMax is UL 139 listed with the Viking High Expansion generators.
Supplementary foam hose reels
The requirement here under NFPA 409 of a minimum of two hose lines flowing 60 gpm (227 lpm) for 20 minutes we anticipate remaining with SFFF, and Enviro USP has been internally tested with both aspirating foam branches and non-aspirating nozzles on fuel in depth fires so we are confident that for correctly designed systems USP will meet the standard.
Foam storage and proportioning
We have focused on the discharge devices and the design standards for deploying SFFF (and specifically the Enviro USP) but proportioning is critical to the performance of the foam system, and we recommend equipment that has been tested and approved with the Enviro USP be used.
Transitioning the foam system in an aircraft hangar is certainly not just about ‘swapping out’ the foam concentrate, and we are not beginning to suggest that the Enviro USP is a ‘drop-in’ replacement. What we can state is that for most of the design options under NFPA 409 Enviro USP can be deployed at the same application densities as the existing AFFF. This statement is backed up by the data obtained through the extensive testing of the Enviro Programme, and the UL listing and on FM approvals gained with the associated Viking hardware. www.fomtec.com
Fire protection and detection in highrise buildings comes with its own unique set of challenges and solutions.
Fire safety solutions expert, Peter Stephenson, shares his thoughts
High-rise buildings present distinct challenges in fire safety due to their vertical design, high occupancy levels and complex evacuation needs, making sophisticated fire protection and detection systems essential to maintaining safety.
As urban landscapes evolve towards the concept of vertical cities, high-rise buildings increasingly serve as selfcontained communities that blend residential, commercial, recreational and even educational spaces within a single structure. This shift maximises the use of limited land in densely populated areas, creating sustainable, high-density
environments that address critical urban needs.
With growing populations and limited urban space, vertical cities represent a practical solution, yet their unique structure presents specific fire safety challenges. Protecting these densely populated spaces requires a layered approach to fire safety, integrating robust means of escape, detection and suppression systems.
Means of Escape in High-Rise Buildings
A key element of fire safety in highrise buildings is establishing clear,
efficient escape routes for all occupants. Due to the building’s height, a twostage evacuation strategy is typically implemented, combining horizontal movement away from the fire on the affected floor with vertical descent to reach safety.
Horizontal Movement (Escape on the Affected Floor)
In the initial phase of an evacuation, the objective is to create physical distance between occupants and the source of the fire. Fire compartmentation and fire-rated materials contain fire and smoke within specific areas, enabling occupants to
move safely along protected horizontal routes.
• Safe Zones and Fire-Rated Corridors: High-rise designs typically include firerated corridors or safe zones that lead to fire-protected stairwells, allowing occupants to distance themselves from the fire.
• Fire Doors and Smoke Control Systems:
To keep escape routes clear, fire doors and advanced smoke control systems prevent smoke from spreading into these corridors. This design ensures that people can reach vertical escape routes without exposure to smoke.
Vertical Movement (Stairwells and Shafts)
After reaching a safe point horizontally, occupants use protected stairwells for vertical evacuation. These stairwells are fire-rated and designed to prevent smoke infiltration, supported by pressurisation systems that keep smoke out.
• Staged Evacuation with Safe Refuges: In high-rise buildings, stairwells may include intermediate refuges on certain floors, allowing occupants to pause if descending multiple floors is difficult. This approach helps reduce congestion in the stairwells, creating a safer, more manageable evacuation.
• Evacuation Elevators: Increasingly, modern high-rises are incorporating evacuation elevators equipped with fire-rated technology and backup power. These elevators are typically reserved for individuals with mobility challenges, adding another layer to the escape strategy.
Integration of Systems for Enhanced Safety
Means of escape in high-rise buildings requires a combination of passive and active fire protection measures, including alarm systems, automated sprinklers and fire compartmentation. In some cases, external rescue by fire services may be
necessary, especially for occupants on upper floors; however, internal evacuation remains the primary method, with the layered approach enhancing both flexibility and effectiveness.
The Importance of Advanced Fire Protection Systems
The complex structure of high-rise buildings demands advanced fire protection systems tailored to the specific risks associated with increased height, high occupancy density and complex layouts. Key components of these systems include:
• Comprehensive Detection and Early Warning Systems: Early detection is critical in high-rise buildings. Advanced smoke and heat detectors that provide rapid alerts across multiple floors allow occupants and responders time to act before the fire escalates. Modern detectors use intelligent sensors that can distinguish between real fires and false triggers, ensuring reliability.
• Effective Fire Suppression Systems: Fire suppression in high-rises requires robust solutions that efficiently cover large areas. Automatic sprinklers, pressurised stairwells and alternative suppression systems (e.g., water mist or clean agents) are often customised based on building layout, purpose and occupancy, ensuring effective control in diverse scenarios.
• Enhanced Smoke Control and Ventilation: Smoke is a significant hazard in a fire, especially in highrise settings where it can spread rapidly through elevator shafts, stairwells and HVAC systems. Advanced smoke control systems, such as pressurised stairwells and zoned smoke extraction, prevent smoke infiltration into escape routes, supporting clear egress paths.
• Intelligent Building Integration: Many modern high-rises integrate
fire protection systems with building management systems (BMS), enabling real-time monitoring and control. These systems provide actionable insights — such as fire location and affected egress routes — that facilitate coordinated responses, enhancing both safety and response time.
• Custom-Tailored Emergency Response Plans: Fire protection systems in high-rises are part of a broader fire safety strategy, which includes emergency response plans tailored to the building’s unique risks, occupancy levels and layout. These plans ensure systems and procedures are in place to address specific hazards effectively.
• Regular Maintenance and Testing: Regular inspections and maintenance are critical for high-rise fire protection systems. Maintenance programmes often use IoT-enabled sensors and automated diagnostics, improving system reliability and reducing the risk of failure.
Fire Safety Challenges and Considerations in High-Rise Buildings
High-rise fire protection systems must account for specific challenges alongside architectural and design goals:
• Structural Challenges: The vertical nature of high-rises poses risks related to fire and smoke spread. Firefighting access becomes more difficult with height, and maintaining structural integrity during a fire becomes critical for safe evacuation.
• Occupancy Factors: Different high-rise types — residential, commercial or mixed-use — affect fire risk profiles. Residential high-rises may have occupants unfamiliar with evacuation plans, while commercial high-rises house complex infrastructure that requires additional protection.
• Smoke Spread and Ventilation Issues: In high-rises, smoke can
travel vertically, impacting multiple floors within minutes. Effective smoke management is essential to keep escape routes safe.
Firefighter Access and Facilities
To facilitate effective emergency response, high-rise buildings must include features that provide firefighters with safe and convenient access to all floors.
• Dedicated Fire Lifts: Firefighter lifts are mandatory in most high-rise structures, allowing responders to reach upper floors quickly and transport equipment. These lifts are specially designed to operate under fire conditions.
• Firefighter Access Points: Designated access points and entry routes help firefighters reach the building and control the fire without interference from evacuating occupants.
• Standpipe and Hose Systems: Standpipe systems with hoses are installed on each floor, allowing firefighters to access water sources for manual firefighting efforts. These systems are often combined with a building’s sprinkler system, enhancing fire suppression capabilities.
• Fire Control Room: High-rise buildings usually feature a dedicated control room, where firefighters can access building layouts, alarm system controls and communication equipment to manage the response effectively.
Regulatory Standards for High-Rise Fire Safety
To meet these challenges, high-rise fire safety design must align with local regulations and international standards, ensuring robust protection. Key international standards include:
1. NFPA 101: Life Safety Code: This standard, developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), sets global benchmarks for fire safety. It covers:
• Egress Requirements: Guidelines for designing safe evacuation routes, stairwells, door widths, lighting and emergency exits.
• Compartmentation: Mandated fireresistant barriers to contain fire and smoke within certain areas.
• Detection and Suppression: Requirements for fire detection, alarms and sprinklers.
• Evacuation Strategies: Phased evacuation plans that prioritise high floors in emergencies.
2. NFPA 5000: Building Construction and Safety Code: Complementing NFPA 101, this code addresses building construction and materials, emphasising non-combustible materials and fire-resistance ratings for structural elements.
3. BS 9999: The UK’s BS 9999 standard offers a performance-based design approach that supports fire safety solutions tailored to a building’s specific uses and risk profile. It includes:
• Risk-Based Approach: Flexible planning for egress and evacuation, adaptable to high-density occupancies.
• Smoke and Ventilation Control: Recommendations for smoke extraction and pressurised escape routes.
• Firefighter Access: Designated routes and protected areas to support emergency response.
Local Fire Safety Codes in the UAE and Saudi Arabia
Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia have advanced regulations for high-rise fire safety, reflecting global best practices and addressing regional needs:
• UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice: The UAE code integrates guidelines inspired by NFPA and the UK, with specific adaptations for the high-rise environment.
• Egress and Evacuation: Protected stairwells, emergency lighting and pressurised corridors facilitate smooth evacuation.
• External Cladding Standards: Stringent cladding regulations address fire risks related to façade materials, requiring fire-resistant options.
• Advanced Detection and Suppression: Automated sprinklers and intelligent alarm systems ensure swift action during fires.
• Saudi Building Code (SBC 801): Fire Protection Requirements: Saudi Arabia’s SBC 801 aligns closely with NFPA standards and the International Building Code (IBC) including high fireresistance ratings, sprinkler systems, phased evacuation protocols and firefighter facilities.
The Role of International Standards in Shaping Local Regulations
Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia actively align their codes with international standards like the IBC, NFPA 101, NFPA 5000, and BS 9999, ensuring comprehensive fire safety while addressing specific regional challenges. For instance, stricter cladding regulations were introduced following several highrise fires to enhance safety and align with international best practices from across the globe.
In addition, initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Smart City projects encourage the adoption of IoTenabled fire systems, allowing real-time monitoring and response, supporting advanced fire safety within sustainable urban growth.
By harmonising these practices and leveraging advanced fire protection systems, high-rise buildings can provide safe, resilient spaces that protect lives and property.
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The Fire Middle East Conference returns bigger than ever before, continuing to deliver the key insights required for businesses of all sizes to align with the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. The conference is an unparalleled networking opportunity featuring giga-project directors, region-leaders and industry influencers. Expand your knowledge, network and prospects with the Fire Middle East Conference.
NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND CHARTING A SECURE FUTURE
Peter Stephenson, fire safety solutions expert, takes a closer look at fire risks, hazards and awareness in the construction industry and the need for proactive approaches for a safer work environment
The construction sector, given its inherent mix of combustible materials, high-temperature equipment and active processes, poses considerable fire hazards. Additionally, the implementation of permanent fire protection systems is often delayed until the final stages of a project, leaving construction sites vulnerable. Fire risk awareness and proactive preventative measures are therefore essential for creating a safe environment. There are some common fire hazards to be aware of on construction sites, with preventive approaches the best way to tackle them. Most importantly,
there is a need for compliance with fire safety regulations.
Data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reveals the potential dangers. Between 2017 and 2021, US fire departments responded to an estimated average of 4,400 fires annually on structures under construction. These incidents led to civilian deaths, injuries and substantial property damage — costing approximately US$376 million each year. In the UK, a similar pattern emerges. From 2015 to 2024 England saw an annual average of 360 construction site fires.
Two-thirds of these fires resulted from accidents stemming from inadequate training, improper material storage, blocked evacuation routes and incorrect fire extinguisher usage. Arson is also a notable risk, accounting for over one-third of these fires.
To effectively mitigate fire risks during construction, international and regional guidance is available that provides guidance on fire safety in construction, advocating for hazard elimination during design and robust preventive measures on site. By adhering to stringent fire protocols and ensuring proper training,
the construction industry can reduce fire incidents and promote worker safety. Guidance includes:
UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice – Chapter 12: Fire & Life Safety During Construction and Maintenance. Saudi Building Code (SBC) 801
– Chapter 33: Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition.
NFPA 241 (2022) – Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations.
UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) –HSG 168: Fire Safety in Construction. UK Fire Protection Association (FPA) –Fire Prevention on Construction Sites.
On many large regional projects the remoteness of some construction sites can limit the fire and emergency response times and level of support from the local Civil Defense, therefore it is critical a robust construction fire strategy is developed to ensure the protection of life, property, equipment, the environment and the project brand.
Design and Planning for Fire Safety
Construction fire safety must be integrated from the earliest stages of design and procurement, addressing risks to both site workers and neighbouring occupants. This may involve reviewing specific construction methods, materials, or the site location to ensure effective fire risk reduction in the planning phase. Where design risk reduction is impractical, designers and the principal designer must identify specific mitigation measures. Fire safety considerations should be embedded throughout all design and procurement stages and implemented effectively during construction.
Risk assessments must identify high-risk activities or methods that could accelerate fire spread and any situations where evacuation planning is complex. As construction conditions evolve, all risk assessments and control measures must be regularly reviewed to remain effective.
Common Fire Hazards on Construction Sites
Construction sites are populated with materials that can increase fire risks if improperly managed. Key combustible materials — wood, insulation and plastics — are essential for building but can contribute to fire spread and intensity. Here is an overview of these materials and effective management strategies:
Wood: Widely used in framing, scaffolding and temporary structures, wood ignites easily, especially if untreated. It can contribute to rapid fire spread and emit significant smoke. Fire-retardant-treated wood can reduce ignition risk, and storing wood away from heat sources is essential to avoid accidental fires.
Insulation: Insulation materials, including expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyurethane foam, are highly flammable and produce toxic gases when burned. For safer construction, fire-resistant insulation like mineral wool should be prioritised, and fire barriers should surround insulation. Additionally, limiting open flames near insulation can help prevent ignition.
Plastics: Found in construction materials like piping, electrical cables, adhesives and coverings, plastics are highly combustible and can release hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide. Proper storage, fire-resistant alternatives and careful handling of plastics are critical in minimising fire hazards.
General Preventative Measures for Combustible Materials
1. Designated Storage Zones: Store combustible materials away from heat sources and maintain specific storage zones with fire-resistant containers for smaller items.
2. Hot Work Control: Processes like welding or cutting that generate heat should be confined to fire-resistant areas and monitored by a fire watch.
3. Portable Fire Extinguishers: Sites should have fire suppression equipment, and workers must be trained in its use.
4. Routine Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to assess fire risks associated with combustible materials, prioritising significant findings from fire risk assessments.
By integrating planning, careful material selection and stringent fire safety protocols, construction sites can effectively manage and mitigate fire risks.
Importance of Controlling Hot Work Risks
Hot work processes, including welding and cutting, can lead to devastating fires if not controlled. The following control measures are essential for minimising
risks associated with hot work on construction sites:
1. Hot Work Permit System: A formal permit system ensures that all hot work areas are inspected, hazards are identified and proper precautions are in place. Permit details typically include activity specifics, location, time limit and emergency contacts.
2. Fire Watchers: Assign trained personnel to monitor hot work areas for any smouldering embers during and after work.
3. Fire-Resistant Barriers and Blankets: These shields protect flammable materials from sparks and molten metal.
4. Clearance of Combustible Materials: Remove all combustibles within a 35-foot radius or cover them with fireresistant tarps.
5. Emergency Preparedness: Fire extinguishers and fire hoses should be nearby, and workers should be trained in evacuation protocols and firefighting equipment use.
6. Ventilation and Gas Detection: Proper ventilation prevents gas accumulation, and gas detectors ensure safe air quality levels.
The potential risk of acetylene equipment used on a construction site should not be underestimated. The use of alternative systems rather than the use of acetylene should be considered by the main contractor during the risk assessment process. A Fire Strategy Impact Assessment for each phase of work will highlight the safety requirements for the use of alternative systems to minimise the overall site risk profile. Controlling hot work risks with these measures can prevent project delays, safeguard property and ensure regulatory compliance.
Temporary Electrical Installations
Temporary electrical installations are critical on construction sites but can introduce fire risks if poorly managed. Overloading circuits, using substandard equipment, and exposing cables to the elements are common issues. Best practices for managing these risks include:
1. Qualified Personnel Only: Only certified electricians should manage temporary installations to ensure compliance and site-specific safety.
2. Routine Inspections: Schedule inspections to identify and address potential hazards.
USA
BETWEEN 2017 AND 2021
4,400
fires annually on structures under construction
3. Fire Extinguishers for Electrical Fires: Ensure that extinguishers rated for electrical fires are accessible and personnel are trained in their use.
4. Clear Layouts and Labelling: Organise setups to avoid accidental overloading and improper connections.
5. Record Keeping: Maintain records of setups, inspections and repairs to uphold safety protocols.
Implementing these best practices helps reduce fire risks related to temporary electrical installations, protecting property and workers.
Storage of Flammable Liquids and Gases
Improperly stored flammable liquids and gases can be a major fire hazard on construction sites. Common substances such as gasoline, diesel and propane require careful handling and storage. Best practices for managing these materials include:
1. Adequate Storage Containers: Use approved containers to prevent leaks or vapour escape. Containers should have self-closing lids, and gas cylinders should have protective caps.
2. Proper Storage Locations: Store flammable materials away from heat sources, direct sunlight and high-traffic areas. Well-ventilated and clearly marked storage zones help reduce accidental exposure.
3. Ventilation: To prevent vapour buildup, ventilate storage areas properly. Outdoor storage is preferred, but
COSTING APPROX
US$ 376M per year
enclosed spaces, if used, should have exhaust fans.
4. Segregation of Incompatible Chemicals: Store flammable substances separately from oxidisers to prevent chemical reactions.
5. Fire-Resistant Storage: Use fire-rated storage cabinets or lockers to contain fires and slow fire spread in case of an incident.
6. Secured Gas Cylinders: Store cylinders upright and secure them to prevent tipping. Protect valves and store cylinders away from heat.
7. Spill Management and Housekeeping: Clean spills immediately and maintain clear storage areas to avoid ignition from stray sparks.
By implementing robust storage practices, construction sites can effectively reduce fire risks and ensure a safer work environment.
Fire Safety Regulations and Compliance
Fire safety regulations set forth guidelines to minimise fire hazards during construction activities. Building codes such as NFPA 241, as well as regional regulations like the UAE Fire Code and Saudi Building Code, guide safe storage practices, hot work protocols as well as emergency planning on construction sites.
Best Practices for Compliance with Fire Safety Codes
As discussed, the importance of
UK
BETWEEN 2015 AND 2024
360 fires annually on structures under construction
preplanning and risk identification during the construction phase is critical to the success of a project. The following should be included in the development of a construction site fire strategy:
1. Develop and Maintain a Fire Safety Plan: A site-specific plan, compliant with NFPA 241 and regional regulations, should cover preventive practices, emergency protocols and responsibilities.
2. Conduct Fire Risk Assessments: Regular assessments are critical for identifying hazards specific to each phase of a construction project and minimising fire risks.
3. Routine Inspections and Audits: Ongoing inspections help spot compliance gaps and potential hazards, reducing fire risks.
4. Fire Safety Training: Educate workers on hot work protocols, flammable material handling and emergency procedures.
5. Temporary Fire Protection Measures: Install standpipes, fire extinguishers and egress routes as the construction project progresses.
6. Coordination with Local Authorities: Engage local Civil Defense Authorities and local fire departments for site inspections and emergency planning guidance.
Through compliance with fire safety regulations, contractors and construction teams can create safer work environments, enhance worker protection, and ensure regulatory adherence.
Source: UK Home Office National Fire Statistics
Source: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Mark Fessenden, Managing Director of the International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA), takes a closer look at the environmental impact of the construction industry and how fire protection systems can help reduce the carbon emissions burden
The construction industry is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. A recent United Nations report, Building Materials and The Climate: Constructing A New Future, highlights that the building and construction industry is by far the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for 37% of global emissions. To address this, many countries have committed to reducing their carbon footprints.
In 2015, 196 countries at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21), committed to an international treaty (the Paris Agreement) to hold “the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels” and “to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.”
Since 2020, countries have been submitting their national climate action
plans, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs). In their NDCs, countries communicate actions they will take to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in order to reach the goals of the Paris Agreement.
As a result, design professionals are increasingly responsible for minimising the environmental impact of buildings throughout their lifecycle. This involves selecting low-carbon materials, optimising building design and incorporating energy-efficient systems. By making informed decisions during the design phase, architects and engineers can significantly reduce a building’s carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Understanding carbon emissions classifications
Greenhouse gas emissions can be quantified and are classified as either ‘embodied’ or ‘operational’.
The term embodied carbon emissions refers to emissions originating from the design, production and deployment of materials (before occupancy). Embodied carbon includes the emissions from extracting materials, manufacturing materials, transporting materials to the construction site, construction practices, maintaining the building, demolishing the building and transporting and recycling the waste. Embodied carbon is largely set before a building is built. In their article, Embodied Carbon 101: Building Materials: How to eliminate the emissions hidden in concrete, steel, insulation, and other building materials, authors Weir, Rempher and Esau explain how embodied carbon is calculated:
“Embodied carbon is calculated as global warming potential (GWP) and expressed in carbon dioxide equivalent units (CO2e). To quantify a product’s embodied carbon, an analysis called life cycle assessment (LCA) is used to assess the environmental impacts associated with each stage of the product lifecycle. The disclosure of LCA results through Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) provides valuable information to consumers about the environmental impact of building products. EPDs are essentially material ‘nutrition labels’ that report a variety of life cycle impacts, including global warming potential, acidification, eutrophication, ozone depletion, and smog formation.”
Organisations like UL Solutions and the Building Research Establishment (BRE) are driving the development of standards and tools to assess the environmental
impact of construction materials and products. Product Category Rules (PCRs) provide a standardised framework for conducting Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and publishing Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). These PCRs are developed by UL through a collaborative process involving various stakeholders, including manufacturers, suppliers and environmental experts. By establishing clear guidelines for data collection, analysis and reporting, PCRs enable transparent and comparable assessments of product environmental performance. This information empowers designers, builders and owners to make informed decisions that minimise the environmental footprint of construction projects.
PCRs are living documents subject to updates and most PCRs expire every five years. They must be reviewed at that time to address relevant changes in the industry. When no existing PCR aligns with a specific product or geographic region, UL collaborates with stakeholders to develop new PCRs or adapt existing ones to meet unique requirements.
Managing greenhouse gas emissions
Globally, the International Standards Organization (ISO), has developed a technical committee, ISO/TC 207/SC 7 Greenhouse gas and climate change management and related activities, to manage greenhouse gas emissions, as well as to adapt to the effects of climate change in support of sustainability. This committee has published 17 standards with an additional 11 in development. Standards in the series that are particularly noteworthy include:
IWA 42 Net zero guidelines: provides guiding principles and recommendations to enable a common, global approach to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions through alignment of voluntary initiatives and adoption of standards, policies and national and international regulation.
ISO 14064 Greenhouse gases: contains three parts, and specifies principles and requirements at the organisation level for the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and removal.
ISO 14065 General principles and requirements for bodies validating and verifying environmental information: specifies principles and requirements for bodies performing validation and verification of environmental information statements.
ISO 21930 Sustainability in buildings and civil engineering works — Core rules for environmental product declarations of construction products and services: provides the principles, specifications and requirements to develop an EPD for construction products and services, construction elements and integrated technical systems used in any type of construction.
In Europe, PCRs are usually developed based on EN 15804 A2 – European standard for generation of EPD for construction products. This standard defines how to collect, report and verify data for EPDs, and how to assess the environmental performance of construction products. BRE has several services and tools to aid a manufacturer in getting their EPDs. Through consultancy or their online LCA tool, LINA, BRE aids manufacturers in both understanding, and being more transparent about, the environmental impact of their products. BRE also has tools like IMPACT, which allow integration into 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and building information management (BIM) software tools to award credit within whole building assessment schemes.
The carbon impact of unplanned fires
Operational carbon emissions are those stemming from heating, cooling and lighting (post occupancy). Because these emissions occur over the lifetime of a building, they are significant when assessing the total environmental impact of construction projects. Design professionals typically reduce operational carbon emissions through energy efficiency measures, the use of renewable energy sources and improved building design that minimises energy consumption. An overlooked, and often unconsidered operational carbon emission, is the impact of an unplanned fire in the built environment.
In 2010 the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC) and FM Global (FM) conducted full-scale testing comparing the environmental impact of sprinklered and non-sprinklered home fires. Studies have shown that sprinkler systems can significantly reduce environmental impact. For example, greenhouse gas emissions can be cut by almost 98%, water usage during firefighting can be reduced by up to 91%, and the levels of pollutants in fire wastewater can be
significantly lower compared to hose water. In addition, the pH levels and pollutant load of non-sprinkler wastewater were significantly higher representing an environmental concern.
FM recently reaffirmed this groundbreaking work, estimating that between 2010 to 2021 in the United States alone, 1,800,215,826 lb (816,564,163 kg) of greenhouse gases were emitted into the atmosphere due to the lack of home fire sprinklers. Installed home fire sprinklers would have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 97% – to 54,006,475 lb (24,496,925 kg).
Tackling modern blazes
In their pursuit of reduced greenhouse gas emissions, design professionals may pursue environmentally sustainable technologies, innovations and materials. Care must be exercised as the introduction of new building materials, methods and techniques changes the way in which fire behaves. These changes have the potential to negatively impact the built environment, occupants and first responders.
A National Fire Protection Association publication, Fire Safety in a Sustainable World as well as Annex D of NFPA 13DStandard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, discusses the fact that many of the firefighting tactics used today are based on historical firefighting experience. When new materials and systems are introduced into the built environment, firefighters must adapt their tactics to both help control the fire and protect themselves. Examples of new materials and systems impacting modern firefighting tactics include: lightweight construction, engineered wood trusses, new insulation methods, increased glazing areas including skylights and light wells, the combustibility of modern furnishings and contents, limits on water availability and discharge into public water sources, natural ventilation impacting smoke movement, combustible and double skinned facades, vegetative roof systems, and the expanded use of photovoltaic (PV) panels.
Sprinkler technology benefits
These emerging technologies reinforce the importance of active fire sprinkler systems as a mitigating measure. An effective automatic sprinkler system can prevent a fire from ever damaging lightweight building materials and causing a collapse.
Automatic sprinkler systems can contain a fire so that firefighters do not need to access rooftop areas to conduct ventilation.
Automatic sprinkler systems are invaluable in a fire by helping occupants evacuate structures safely and giving them time to get out of harm’s way. These systems also save the lives of responding firefighters by mitigating the fire before it gets out of control and threatens vulnerable building systems. Reducing the amount or severity of fires can reduce wasted materials, pollution and save money. During a fire event, building materials are damaged, property is lost, water is wasted and pollutants are released into the environment through the air and water. After a fire event, materials that were damaged are transferred to landfills and new materials are brought in for replacement.
The use of automatic sprinkler systems minimises business interruption costs in the event of an unplanned fire; residential occupants are often displaced at a high cost; and unplanned fire omissions can lead to both short-term and long-term healthcare impacts to first responders and the community. In their 2024 report, Systematic Review of Embodied Carbon Assessment and Reduction in Building Life Cycles - An Integrated Approach to Resilience and Sustainability, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (Zhang, Satter, Cook, Johnson, Fung) postulate that:
“As awareness of the importance of embodied carbon increases, there is a growing consensus that strategies to reduce operational energy use should be complemented by efforts to address embodied energy and GHG emissions. This holistic approach is essential to achieving more comprehensive and sustainable reductions in the overall environmental footprint of buildings. By integrating both operational and embodied considerations, regulations can better support the transition to low-carbon buildings and ultimately contribute to broader climate goals”.
A properly designed, installed and maintained automatic sprinkler system is a powerful tool in fighting the environmental impact of an unplanned building fire. The use of automatic sprinkler systems is a common sense solution to reducing risk and avoidable carbon emissions and should most certainly be included in any greenhouse gas emission reduction strategy. www.ifsaglobal.org
A Beacon of Safety and Innovation
The UAE’s commitment to safety and security is evident in its ambitious initiatives, such as the Hassantuk programme. In an exclusive interview, we delve into the details of the initiative with Yousef Al Harmoodi, Chief Business Development Officer at Core42 and General Manager of Hassantuk
This groundbreaking project, spearheaded by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, has set new standards for fire safety and emergency response in the region. From its inception, Hassantuk has aimed to revolutionise fire safety by leveraging cutting-edge technology and stringent regulations. By connecting private residential villas and residential, public and commercial buildings to a centralised monitoring system, the programme empowers authorities to respond swiftly to fire emergencies.
We explore the programme’s origins, its impact on the UAE’s safety landscape, and its future aspirations with General Manager, Yousef Al Harmoodi.
Q: Can you provide a brief history of the Hassantuk programme and what motivated its creation?
A: Launched in 2018 by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority under the supervision of the UAE Ministry of Interior, the Hassantuk programme was established to enhance fire safety across the UAE. Initially focused on residential, public and commercial buildings, it later expanded to private residential villas to ensure swift response to fire and emergency alerts. Hassantuk’s 24/7 connected fire alarm system links directly to the Civil Defence Integrated Command Centers, enabling prompt detection and response to fire incidents. This initiative
reflects the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, aiming to position the nation as one of the safest globally.
Q: What were the key challenges faced during the initial implementation of the Hassantuk programme?
A: During its initial rollout, the Hassantuk programme faced some challenges, particularly in securing cooperation from building maintenance teams for device installation, which required extensive coordination and adherence to safety standards. Frequent false fire alerts also strained response infrastructure and impacted public confidence.
To address these issues, Core42, a G42 company specialising in sovereign cloud, AI infrastructure and digital services, partnered with the Civil Defence Authority to implement advanced digital solutions, reducing false alarms through realtime data analytics. This enhancement improved accuracy and response efficiency, ensuring only genuine alerts reached the Civil Defence Command Centers. This collaborative effort strengthened the system’s reliability, creating a robust, reliable safety network across the UAE.
“Hassantuk’s 24/7 connected fire alarm system links directly to the Civil Defence Integrated Command Centers, enabling prompt detection and response to fire incidents”
Q: What has the response been by UAE residents to the mandating of the Hassantuk programme?
A: UAE residents have welcomed the Hassantuk programme mandate, viewing it as a vital enhancement to personal and community safety. With over 38,000 installations in Abu Dhabi alone, the system has significantly reduced fire and life risks. Through ongoing updates and smart advancements, Hassantuk now offers real-time data, minimises false alarms, and enables proactive property monitoring, ensuring a controlled and reliable safety framework. This mandate has reinforced public confidence in the UAE’s commitment to safety, showcasing a proactive approach to protecting both people and infrastructure.
Q: What are the most recent developments within the Hassantuk programme?
A: Recently, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority and Core42 launched an advanced digital portal as part of the Hassantuk programme. This portal allows building owners and maintenance companies to register, monitor and update fire and life safety standards in real-time, significantly improving resident safety and reducing property damage. Key features include real-time fault reporting, automated updates and preventative maintenance tracking, which allow for swift identification of noncompliant buildings, accurate assessment of maintenance company performance, and improved transparency in contract adherence. This platform also facilitates seamless communication between building owners, maintenance companies and the Civil Defence, supporting rapid action to prevent safety breaches. Hassantuk has further strengthened its response capabilities by developing an Auto Dialer with Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system for fire incident notification and verification. This system allows designated contacts to confirm or
dismiss alarms and clarify false alarms, minimising false alerts and ensuring precise incident management from the Central Command Center. Additionally, a partnership with du has brought 21 advanced technological enhancements to Hassantuk, including 13 hardware upgrades — such as interactive touchscreens, sensors and AI-powered cameras — and eight application features that elevate fire safety standards. These innovations position Hassantuk as a critical part of the UAE’s commitment to smart city technologies and public safety advancements.
Q: How does the Hassantuk programme contribute to the UAE’s vision for improved safety and security?
A: The Hassantuk programme’s stateof-the-art digital solution elevates fire and safety standards with real-time monitoring, strict adherence to servicelevel agreements, and live tracking of maintenance activities. This proactive approach reduces risks, safeguards property and lives, and strengthens public confidence, aligning with the UAE’s ambition of being one of the world’s safest places to live and work. Through Core42’s innovative digital solutions, Hassantuk demonstrates how technology-driven initiatives can elevate national safety standards, build resilient communities and position the UAE as a global leader in smart city advancements.
Q: Can you quantify the positive impact of the Hassantuk programme on fire safety incidents in the UAE?
A: Since its implementation, the Hassantuk programme has significantly reduced fire-related incidents and improved response times across the UAE. Thousands of buildings are now equipped with real-time monitoring and rapid alert capabilities directly linked to Civil Defence Command Centers, significantly enhancing public safety.
Q: Are there plans to expand the programme to other parts of the Middle East region?
A: While the success of the Hassantuk programme has generated interest across the region, we are currently focused on our mission to make the UAE one of the safest nations in the world. Every effort is directed toward enhancing community safety, implementing advanced fire detection technology and ensuring the highest security and maintenance standards across the UAE. While expansion in the Middle East may be considered in the future, currently our priority remains building a safer, more resilient UAE.
Q: What are the long-term goals for the Hassantuk programme?
A: Our long-term vision focuses on implementing a unified safety network across residential and public properties to minimise risks, protect lives and build a resilient infrastructure for future generations. This goal aligns with the UAE’s commitment to being one of the world’s safest nations, setting new benchmarks in fire safety, emergency readiness and smart city innovation.
Q: Are there any plans to expand the scope of the Hassantuk programme beyond fire safety to encompass other building emergencies?
A: Hassantuk has expanded from its initial focus on fire safety in residential and public buildings as well as commercial establishments, to now include active monitoring of maintenance activities, ensuring compliance with the Civil Defence Authority’s strict safety standards. This integrated system enhances oversight and accountability, reinforcing both fire safety and broader safety protocols. By supporting rigorous compliance, Hassantuk strengthens the UAE’s commitment to world-class safety and security.
Potter Global Technologies: Strengthening Fire Safety Across the Middle East with Local Investment
Tom Goodchild’s career in fire protection spans nearly two decades in the Middle East. Having arrived in Dubai in 2006 with UTC Fire & Security, he later spearheaded the opening of Reliable Sprinklers’ regional hub and led Victaulic’s Fire Protection division.
Now at PGT, Tom sees enormous potential for the brand, emphasising that local support is pivotal to unlocking further growth. “Potter is a globally recognised name in fire safety, and with the right strategic investments and local presence, I am confident we will exceed the expectations of our customers in the Middle East,” Tom stated.
Local Presence & Advantage
The establishment of a local office in Dubai grants PGT a significant edge over competitors. Proximity to customers means products and services are readily accessible, drastically reducing shipping times that, when ordered from the United States, could hinder project schedules. Time zone differences are no longer a barrier, allowing for more efficient communication and swift responses to customer needs.
Tom emphasised; “By being on the ground, we not only showcase our
Potter Global Technologies (PGT) has established itself as a key player by investing heavily in infrastructure and talent. At the heart of this strategy is the recent opening of a new logistics hub in Dubai, which signals PGT’s unwavering commitment to enhancing fire safety services and products across the region. Tom Goodchild, the newly appointed General Manager for the Middle East, leads this transformative effort, whose experience and expertise promise to elevate the company’s impact and reputation.
investment in the region but also improve service delivery and accessibility for our partners.”
PGT’s team draws on firsthand knowledge acquired over 19 years in the Middle Eastern fire protection market to seamlessly navigate complex business practices, documentation requirements and local regulations.
Commitment to the Region
PGT has demonstrated long-term dedication to the Middle East through targeted investments, such as the newly established 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) warehouse in Dubai Logistics City. This strategic move ensures immediate stock availability, benefiting clients who can keep their cash flow unburdened by prolonged shipping waits. The ability to supply manageable, regular stock orders is a game-changer for many regional businesses.
Beyond logistics, PGT actively engages with local consultants to develop collaborative, value-engineered solutions that address the unique challenges of the Middle East. “We aim to partner with regional organisations to elevate fire safety standards while delivering practical, costeffective solutions,” said Tom.
Reliability & Trust
Reliability is at the core of PGT’s operations. The Dubai-based 3PL warehouse expedites shipping and brings a wealth of regional logistics experience. “This capability is a crucial resource,” Tom explained. Furthermore, having an experienced General Manager in Dubai helps solidify trust and build stronger client relationships. As a seasoned professional who deeply understands the local market, Tom adds a personal touch that enhances communication and instills confidence.
Support & Service
PGT is committed to ensuring its fire safety systems’ long-term success and reliability. With a dedicated regional technical support manager, the company provides hands-on, on-site assistance to clients, resolving issues efficiently and effectively. This personalised approach ensures that questions and challenges are addressed more thoroughly than through remote communication.
The Dubai team’s ability to handle complex customer needs is bolstered by close collaboration with PGT’s global logistics and operations network. By leveraging local resources and the company’s wider expertise, the team delivers tailored solutions that meet the region’s unique demands.
Market Position & Vision
PGT is serious about solidifying its status as a market leader in fire safety across the Middle East. Investing in a regional hub and an expanded team in Dubai exemplifies this long-term vision. According to Tom, future developments will be driven by direct customer feedback, ensuring that PGT offers a product range with the right approvals and competitive price points.
“Our goal is clear: to be the first choice for fire safety solutions in the Middle East,” Tom concluded. With strategic investments and a talented team in place, Potter Global Technologies is well-positioned to continue making a significant impact in the region’s fire safety landscape.
Choose Potter for a partnership that understands your fire protection and lifesafety needs.
Discover Cutting-Edge Fire Safety Technology With Potter Fire: Leading The Way In Protection For The Middle East
AN INTERVIEW WITH JEFF KLEIN, PRESIDENT OF THE FIRE DIVISION
In this exclusive interview with Jeff Klein, President of the Fire Division at Potter Global Technologies, it is evident that innovation and commitment to safety remain at the forefront of Potter’s operations. Klein, who has a career spanning over 30 years in the fire protection industry, shares his insights into the company’s longstanding commitment to safety, its innovative approach to fire protection, and what makes Potter Fire a trusted partner, especially for businesses in the Middle East.
Can you start by sharing your background and experience in the fire industry and how it has influenced your work at Potter Fire?
I’ve been in the fire alarm industry since 1993, starting my career at Pitway Corporation, which later became part of Honeywell. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being involved in product development, launches, and even code writing for NFPA 72 committees. This extensive background has given me a deep appreciation for the complexities of fire safety and the need to innovate while meeting rigorous standards. Joining Potter Fire has been a natural extension of that journey, where our mission has always been to deliver reliable, code-compliant products that make a genuine difference in protecting lives.
How has Potter evolved to become a leader in the fire safety industry?
Potter Fire has a rich history of over 125 years. While our fire alarm division is relatively young at 15 years, our legacy in the safety industry is wellestablished, particularly in sprinkler monitoring systems. What sets us apart is our steadfast commitment to quality
and innovation. Over the years, we’ve launched numerous advanced products, always prioritising ease of use for both installers and end users. We believe in the value of simplicity in life safety, which means our systems are intuitive, reliable and adaptable to various environments.
Speaking of innovation, describe some of Potter’s key fire protection solutions, and the technology behind them. Our extensive product lineup includes everything from traditional fire alarm systems to our latest integrated voice alarm technology. For example, our integrated voice systems, launched in 2022, provide clear and actionable
instructions during emergencies, a huge advancement over standard alarms. We’re also leveraging connectivity; our systems can send real-time notifications to phones, enabling building managers to act quickly. This is especially beneficial for multi-site operations, like large retail chains, where central oversight is crucial.
Where are these systems typically used, and what challenges do they address?
Our solutions are predominantly installed in commercial settings, from multifamily residential buildings and office complexes to schools and large retail outlets. One of our notable successes has been with multi-site retail chains. In these
environments, our scalable systems allow for tailored installations across various store sizes while providing centralised monitoring. This capability is critical for ensuring that all locations are protected and can be managed efficiently, especially in emergencies where time is of the essence.
How does Potter Fire ensure that its products meet the highest safety standards?
Safety is non-negotiable. All Potter products meet and often exceed UL and FM approval standards. While these are stringent minimum requirements, we conduct even more rigorous internal testing. Our aim is to ensure our solutions are resilient, reliable and effective in any scenario. The Potter name carries a reputation for excellence built over 125 years, which is a significant factor in why customers trust us. We’ve always prioritised third-party validation to reassure clients that our products aren’t just meeting standards; they’re setting them.
For potential customers in the Middle East, what message of reassurance would you like to convey about Potter Fire’s commitment to safety and reliability?
The Potter brand’s reputation for life safety is something we take very seriously. Our 125-year history is a testament to our unwavering commitment to protecting lives. We have a proven track record, especially in our market-leading position in sprinkler monitoring. When it comes to fire alarms, our systems are built and supported by a team with decades of expertise. Customers in the Middle East can trust that they’re partnering with a company that not only understands international codes and standards but also goes above and beyond to ensure safety and reliability.
What unique challenges or considerations do you take into account when providing solutions in the Middle East?
The Middle East is an exciting market with rapidly evolving safety standards. One of the unique considerations is the extreme heat and arid conditions, which sometimes require additional product robustness. However, the foundational principles remain the same: ensuring our systems are UL and FM approved and compliant with NFPA 72 and other relevant codes. We’ve seen a growing emphasis on
“Our dedication to safety is more than just a mission; it’s a legacy.”
adhering to international safety standards in the region, which aligns perfectly with our product capabilities and company philosophy.
Can you share any success stories from the Middle East market?
One of our proudest achievements is a high-rise residential project in Dubai. For this project we deployed our integrated voice alarm system. This system enhances public safety by delivering precise evacuation instructions in real-time. We also have experienced significant success with large utilities in the region, meeting stringent requirements for critical infrastructure. These projects underscore our ability to deliver cuttingedge solutions that can adapt to the Middle East’s demanding regulatory and environmental landscape.
How does Potter Fire ensure that customer feedback shapes your product development?
We involve our customers throughout the entire development process. Before we even start designing a product, we gather input to understand unmet market needs. We then develop prototypes and bring them back to our clients for feedback, ensuring that we’re on the right track. By the time we launch, the product will not only be rigorously tested but also finetuned to meet customer expectations. It’s a collaborative effort that ensures our
solutions truly address the needs of the market.
Finally, how do you see the future of fire safety evolving, especially in the Middle East, and what role will Potter play?
Technology will be the game-changer in fire safety. We’re looking at smarter, more connected systems that offer better situational awareness and real-time communication. Like the ones we’ve deployed, voice-guided evacuation systems are just the beginning. We’re also heavily involved in code development and research, working to make buildings safer through advancements like fire service access elevators. In rapidly growing regions like the Middle East, our role will be to stay ahead of these trends and bring cutting-edge solutions that protect people and properties effectively.
With a blend of experience, innovation and a commitment to safety, Potter Fire stands out as a trusted partner for businesses looking to safeguard their assets and people. As Klein emphasises, “Our dedication to safety is more than just a mission; it’s a legacy.” Visit
to find out more.
A century of innovation
Fire detection technologies have been evolving for decades – and the best is yet to come, asserts Dominic Jeff of Securiton International
Deaths from fire have been declining steadily for decades, and in no small part that is because of improved fire detection and alarms. Although the core technologies behind modern detection have been around for decades, the systems available to fire planners today are more sophisticated than ever, and further exciting evolutions are likely to help the fire safety industry save even more lives in the decades to come. When looking at the evolution of fire detection technology, we need to consider how far the industry has come in terms of effectiveness. In a typical European country such as Germany, the number of fire-related deaths per 100,000 people has fallen from around 1 in 1980, to just 0.3 today. In Saudi Arabia, the drop is from almost nine deaths per 100,000 people, to around 3.7 today, according to the same Global Burden of Disease study. While building standards have played their part, NFPA figures suggest detection is likely responsible for most of this drop.
Promising results
Recent research by the NFPA in the USA found that the death rate per 1,000 home structure fires is approximately 60% lower in homes with working smoke alarms than in homes with no alarms or none that operated. If both smoke alarms and automatic extinguishing systems (AES) were installed, the rate was 90% lower. Needless to say, improving technology and increased affordability of detection systems mean good quality fire detection is far more common today than it was a few decades ago, both in homes and commercial premises. This accounts for the significant fall in deaths from fire seen in almost every country in the world – and just as deaths have fallen, we can safely say that property damages are also down, although increased values make the financial dimension hard to compare.
Whether detectors have been installed in accordance with growing regulations or as a performance-based design approach intended to reduce human and property losses, the technologies used have been steadily improving in recent decades. However, to look for the real breakthroughs, we must look further into the past.
Early detection methods
In the crowded cities of the industrial revolution, fire detection was initially no more sophisticated than in antiquity –amounting to, at best, regular patrols by a kind of fire police force. However, a fire was generally not reported until flames had taken hold of a building, at which point a fire-fighting force could slowly be assembled. With tightly packed wooden buildings, this approach sometimes meant that a large proportion of the city would be destroyed. Mediaeval London was twice destroyed by fire, for example, and again laid waste in the famous fire of 1666 which started in a bakery. Rome, Constantinople, Moscow, Amsterdam, Copenhagen and many other capitals also suffered multiple catastrophic fires. By the time of US independence, New World cities such as New York and Boston could also be added to the list – New Orleans burned down twice within the space of six years!
Slow progress
Modern building techniques and city planning mean whole districts are unlikely to go up in flames nowadays, but large buildings are still regularly lost to fire. Speed of detection and reaction determine whether an incident grows to catastrophic levels, and the first technologies to really help centered around the ability to raise the alarm quickly: Manual systems with loud alarms ensured people could exit burning
buildings earlier, and early telephony meant fire brigades could be dispatched to a specific address promptly. Although heat and smoke detectors were also devised in the early 20th century, these did not become economically viable until the 1950s and ‘60s – before that, detection was largely visual and alarms were therefore raised only once fires were well developed.
Starting with heat detectors in the 1950s, technological breakthroughs began to allow earlier detection. Batterypowered smoke detectors were developed in 1965, although it took a decade for them to hit the consumer market. Batterypowered carbon monoxide detectors became another staple of domestic fire detection in the 1990s. However, for commercial and more specialist applications, more sophisticated systems were required. Aspirated smoke detectors were devised in the mid-1970s and started gaining traction immediately thanks to their ability to monitor large volumes and still provide exceptionally early warning of a fire.
Technological break-throughs
Linear heat systems, the other staple of commercial fire detection, had at that point been around for several decades both as a simple twin cable system or as a series of heat sensors in a line. The addition of fibre systems in the 1980s, and Securiton’s unique pressure-based system SecuritHeat ADW, added further technological options for linear heat applications. Beam systems for optical smoke detection arrived on the market later still.
The main technologies which are used to detect fire today have therefore been around for over 40 years in most cases. However, over that period we have got a lot better at savings lives in fire, and also at preventing or minimising property loss.
“Devices have also
become much more connected in recent years”
Both these goals come down to detecting early and acting decisively. Detecting a fire at an incipient stage – which modern early warning devices are capable of doing – gives staff the chance to verify the incident and very often, simply to put it out. If necessary, evacuations can be started in an orderly manner before smoke impedes visibility and creates a danger, and fire brigades can arrive at the scene at a point where the building can still be saved.
Look to the future
However, the sensitivity required for early detection is always balanced against the problem of false alarms. Although the staged response approach helps mitigate against this, false alarms are still highly undesirable. Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, systems such as ASD and linear heat became better at recognising a real fire incident, but the process has accelerated in the last couple of decades as data processing became good enough
to analyse the patterns of real fires. For example, advanced linear heat detectors are programmed to discern the heat plume of a door opening to the outside in a hot country, waiting just long enough to check if this is the case before alarming. Similarly, aspirating smoke detectors have got much better at discerning smoke from dust or other airborne particles. ASD has also experienced a more fundamental technological change as some manufacturers switched from laser to LED as the light source in the detection chamber. Although this does not make a vast difference to detection rates, the new tech has helped bring down costs and the power consumption of devices. While this was barely a consideration 20 years ago, modern regulations in energy use for buildings in Europe especially mean that this trend is set to continue.
Devices have also become much more connected in recent years: the ability to get detailed information not just to a central fire alarm panel but
potentially to phones and computers; and even the more visual, intuitive displays that are now available for many fire detection devices; all help to ensure they are used effectively. Potentially, interconnectivity is an area that can deliver even more in years to come, although with it come security fears. It is likely that manufacturers will be able to leverage even more feedback from their devices, learning lessons and making improvements faster than ever before. Therefore, even if no new detection technologies disrupt the market in the years to come, we can expect continued improvement in efficiencies and detection abilities, especially the capacity to filter out false alarms. Ever growing adoption of high quality fire detection in the Middle East, however, is likely to have the biggest impact on safety. Modernisation of legacy systems and buildings mean the rate of death from fire should rapidly drop as the gap with Europe and the US closes. www.securiton.com
TRAPPED: THE PERILS OF CONFINED SPACES
Bob Rea, Director, BR Training Solutions, considers the various aspects surrounding confined space rescue and the challenges it presents for the responder community
I feel quite uniquely positioned to discuss this topic, as during my career in and post- the Fire and Rescue Service I have been involved in both rescues and the development and delivery of training in different countries, hence I have an appreciation of the range of different approaches.
One of the essential elements we must consider when we are developing a response capability is the risk and likelihood of an incident occurring so that an organisation can provide suitable resources to meet the needs of their community. The maxim of: Specialist People, Specialist Training and Specialist Equipment, to provide a safe, effective and efficient response capability. This supports an organisation in its duty to provide a safe
and competent workforce in line with the Safe Person Concept.
To understand and commence the risk assessment, being able to identify what constitutes a ‘Confined Space’ is paramount. Most people will see a confined space as a small space entered via a narrow or restricted opening. Many outside the responder community will be surprised to know that the following is a definition of a confined space.
Combining the thoughts of two health and safety bodies, the Health and Safety Executive UK (HSE) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration USA (OSHA), results in the following definition:
“A confined space is an enclosed or mostly enclosed area that has a foreseeable risk to workers. Confined spaces can be small or large, and
include places like tanks, vessels, silos, and manholes. They have limited or restricted means of entry or exit, not designed for continuous human occupancy and is large enough for an employee to bodily enter and perform work.”
(HSE and OSHA)
The next stage of designing an operational response is to identify the hazards associated with confined spaces as confined spaces present unique challenges that make them among the most dangerous work environments. The hazards broadly fall into the following:
Oxygen Deficiency: Many confined spaces lack adequate ventilation, which can lead to low oxygen levels. Oxygen deficiency can result from chemical reactions, such as rusting or
the presence of gases that displace oxygen, such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
Toxic Atmospheres: Gases such as hydrogen sulphide, methane or carbon monoxide can accumulate in confined spaces, posing severe risks to workers. These gases are often colourless and odourless, making them difficult to detect without specialised equipment.
Flammable or Explosive Atmospheres: The presence of volatile gases or vapours, combined with inadequate ventilation, can lead to explosive or flammable conditions. Any spark or ignition source can trigger a fire or explosion in such environments.
Engulfment: Workers can become engulfed by loose materials such as grain, sand, or other substances in confined spaces, leading to suffocation or crushing injuries.
Temperature Extremes: Confined spaces can experience extreme temperatures due to poor ventilation, leading to heat stress or hypothermia.
Physical Hazards: Confined spaces can present physical hazards such as poor lighting, slippery surfaces, sharp edges and limited mobility, increasing the risk of injury.
Once an organisation has identified these hazards, they need to assess how likely they are to occur and cause injuries or entrapment. This will lead to a quantified assessment of how they intend to provide a response to confined space rescues. The Risk Assessment will allow them to identify the weight of response and the equipment needed, so that they can procure, appoint and train a competent team.
In any organisation, consideration of the fact that confined space rescues are complex and hazardous, often involving life-threatening situations is essential. Workers in confined spaces may be incapacitated due to exposure to toxic gases, lack of oxygen or physical injuries. In many cases, by the time emergency services arrive, it is too late for effective intervention. Therefore, on-site rescue teams equipped with the necessary training and equipment are critical and required in many countries as part of the operators’ safe system of work.
As with any emergency incident a structured approach is vital to maintain control, a safe system of work and an effective outcome. Fire Services globally have their approach to Incident Command with an Incident Command System (ICS),
which allows them to effectively fall into a structured response to confined space rescues. The hierarchical tree of ICS (overleaf) naturally lends itself to the structures required to effect a confined space rescue.
On arrival the Incident Commander will assess if there is a confined space rescue to perform and either request specialist resources (for example in the UK some will deploy their Urban Search and Rescue Teams, who have had specialised training and been provided with specialised equipment to affect the rescue) or identify competent persons in their crew to affect entry. Entry is based on a Risk Assessment against the four categories in the UK:
Category 1 – Low Risk
Category 2 – Medium Risk –
Simple entry
Category 3 – Medium Risk –
Complex entry
Category 4 – High Risk –Breathing Apparatus entry only.
The first risk assessment would be the Dynamic Risk Assessment, which is the default actions of the initial Incident Commander and influences their plan. If time and resources allow, an Analytical Risk Assessment should be completed to
COMMAND SUPPORT
record the hazards, the likelihood of the hazards occurring and the severity of the resulting occurrence. From this, control/ mitigation measures can be identified, implemented and monitored, with a review period set, to ensure all is operating as expected and to capture any changes.
Key response positions within a Confined Space Rescue Team are:
Confined Space Supervisor –
Responsible for establishing, communicating and monitoring the rescue/entry plan. Liaising with specialist responders, including Hazardous Material Specialists.
Maintaining the working environment, including ventilation and atmospheric monitoring.
Confined Space Entry Control Officer
– Responsible for managing the entry into the confined space, overseeing or completing the recording of all relevant information, including entrants and atmospheric monitoring.
Confined Space Entry Team
Leader – Responsible for the team activities, enacting the rescue plan, communicating progress and entry team safety.
Confined Space Operative –
Responsible for enacting the rescue plan and operating within the safety parameters.
A confined space rescue typically involves the following key stages:
Preparation and Pre-entry
Assessment: Before, the rescue team must perform a thorough risk assessment. Identifying hazards, monitoring air quality and determining the safest approach to the rescue.
Personal protective equipment (PPE), gas detectors and communication systems are essential.
Ventilation and Atmosphere
Monitoring: The atmosphere must be
continuously monitored throughout occupation. Ventilation systems may be deployed to improve air quality and atmospheric conditions. Rescue teams must use gas detectors to maintain awareness of the atmosphere they are working in.
Access and Entry: Rescue teams may need to use specialised equipment to safely access the space. In some cases, confined space entry requires the use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to protect rescuers from harmful gases or oxygen-deficient environments, these are level 4 incidents.
Rescue Techniques: The rescue may involve removing an injured worker using rope-based systems, stretchers or mechanical extraction devices. Rescuers must be trained in all equipment and techniques.
Evacuation and First Aid: Casualtycentred extraction is the focus, getting them to definitive medical care. Rescue teams should be trained in basic first aid and CPR to provide immediate care. Post-rescue Debrief: After the rescue, the team should conduct a debrief to evaluate the effectiveness of the operation, identify any challenges or failures, and improve future rescue procedures.
From the identified positions and the stages identified the need for specialist training becomes clear. Confined space rescue training programmes should be comprehensive, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on skills. Some of the essential components of training include:
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: Trainees must learn how to identify the hazards associated with confined spaces, how to assess risks, and develop safe work procedures.
Atmospheric Monitoring and
Ventilation: Proper training on the use of gas detectors and ventilation equipment ensures the safety of the operational crew in the confined spaces.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Use: Confined space rescue may require specialist PPE such as SCBAs, chemical-resistant suits, helmets and gloves.
Rescue Techniques and Equipment: Rescue teams must be proficient in a range of rescue techniques, including rope rescue, vertical extraction and mechanical systems such as winches or tripod.
Non-entry and Entry Rescue Methods: The training should cover nonentry rescue and entry techniques highlighting safe entry procedures and the navigation of confined spaces and hazard management.
First Aid and Emergency Medical Procedures: Confined space rescue training should include first aid, CPR and other life-saving medical procedures to stabilise the casualty until professional medical assistance arrives.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Rescue teams must be familiar with relevant regulations and standards.
The use of realistic simulated environments to best prepare the rescue team is essential. They reinforce theoretical knowledge and practical skills, allowing trainees to perfect rescue techniques in controlled environments. Experiential learning cannot be discounted, training as you operate only improves the capability.
Confined space rescue is a highly specialised and dangerous task that requires rigorous training, the right equipment and careful preparation. The hazards of confined spaces, such as oxygen deficiency, toxic atmospheres and physical entrapment, demand that rescuers are well-prepared to handle emergencies safely and effectively. Comprehensive confined space rescue training programmes equip personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond quickly and efficiently to emergencies, minimising the risk to both workers and rescue teams.
Organisations must prioritise confined space rescue training to ensure compliance with regulations, enhance workplace safety, and protect the lives of those operating in confined spaces and performing rescues.
Figure 1 Building Block/Foundation for ICS 1 Appliance Attendance
FIREFIGHTER
FIREFIGHTER
FIREFIGHTER
How stretch FR fabrics are changing workwear in the Middle East
The Middle East’s industrial sector is synonymous with high-risk environments, particularly in oil and gas production. Workers face hazards such as flash fires, chemical splashes and electric arcs — all within the context of demanding conditions, including sweltering heat and long shifts. In response to these challenges, flame-retardant (FR) fabrics with stretch properties are emerging as the next generation of protective workwear, delivering comfort, safety and durability.
A revolution in comfort and protection
Traditionally, FR fabrics prioritised protection over comfort. However, the increasing demand for ergonomic clothing has driven a shift towards stretch solutions. Thanks to innovations in textile engineering and the influence of modern fashion, these fabrics now combine unparalleled flexibility with the stringent safety standards required in high-risk industries.
Stretch fabrics such as Carrington Textiles’ Flametougher 290AS Flex and Flameflex 300AS demonstrate how this transition is not just a luxury but a necessity. Flametougher 290AS Flex, for example, incorporates 19.5% CORDURA® nylon 6,6 for exceptional durability and strength, blended with 78% cotton for
lightweight comfort. At just 290gsm, it ensures workers maintain mobility without compromising on protection.
Meeting the needs of Middle Eastern workers, Flameflex 300AS, weighing 300gsm, provides a perfect balance of durability, flexibility and flame resistance. Its 83% cotton and 14% polyester composition ensures longevity, while 2% EOL fibres enable enhanced elasticity — critical for workers in physically intensive roles such as oil rig operations or refinery maintenance.
Paul Farrell, Carrington Textiles’ Sales Director, highlighted: “These fabrics are not just about comfort, they’re about enabling workers to perform their duties safely and efficiently in some of the most demanding environments on the planet.”
Driving innovation in worker safety
Flexibility in workwear isn’t just a matter of comfort, it’s a matter of safety. Restricted movement can lead to fatigue, reduced compliance with safety standards and accidents. Stretch FR fabrics excel in adaptability. Whether it’s a worker scaling scaffolding on an oil platform or handling maintenance in a petrochemical plant, garments made with stretch FR textiles allow for the unrestricted movement critical to performing tasks safely.
The rise of these type of fabrics also owes much to the fashion industry. Decades of innovation in stretch garments for everyday use have created a ripple effect in workwear. Workers increasingly expect the same level of comfort and fit in their protective clothing, and manufacturers are responding.
“Modern workers see their uniforms as part of their toolkit. They demand high performance from their workwear, and stretch fabrics deliver that by bridging the gap between comfort and performance,” Paul added.
The future of protective workwear
As the Middle East continues to expand its industrial base, the demand for advanced safety solutions will only grow. Flame-retardant fabrics with stretch properties, such as Flametougher 290AS Flex and Flameflex 300AS, represent the cutting edge of protective clothing. They offer a compelling combination of safety, mobility and comfort, ensuring workers can perform at their best in challenging conditions.
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Sustainable suppression
Stuart Phythian, of FireDos, looks at how to navigate the transition to sustainable firefighting foams and key factors to consider for system compatibility
The global firefighting industry is undergoing a significant transformation as regulatory and environmental pressures drive the transition from traditional aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) to sustainable alternatives, like syntheric fluorine free foam (SFFF). For high-hazard industries reliant on Class B firefighting systems, this change represents a pivotal moment. It introduces the opportunity to adopt safer, environmentally friendly foams as well as the challenge of adapting existing systems to maintain performance and safety.
This comprehensive guide will help explain the critical factors affecting the performance and compatibility of these new foams in existing fire suppression systems. By addressing these factors, end-users can ensure a smooth transition to sustainable foams without compromising fire safety standards.
1. Expansion characteristics: adapting system design and discharge devices
Foam expansion — the ratio of foam volume after expansion to its original liquid volume, after mixing and aerating — is a fundamental property that influences the foam’s ability to cover and suppress fires. Historically, AFFF was designed to produce high expansion ratios, which made it particularly effective in forming a stable, durable foam blanket over flammable liquids.
Impact on discharge devices
Discharge devices such as monitors, nozzles and pourers are designed to operate within specific expansion parameters. When transitioning to environmentally friendly foams, the expansion characteristics may differ significantly, necessitating adjustments to discharge equipment:
• Device compatibility: Many fluorinefree foams, tend to produce lower expansion ratios than AFFF. Existing discharge devices optimised for highexpansion foams may fail to deliver adequate coverage or a sufficiently thick and stable foam blanket.
• Recalibration or replacement: To achieve optimal performance, discharge devices may require recalibration to match the properties of the new foam. In some cases, replacement with equipment specifically designed for low-expansion foams may be necessary, particularly in high-risk applications such as fuel storage facilities or chemical plants.
System-wide design adjustments
The expansion characteristics of environmentally friendly foams influence not just discharge devices but the overall system design:
• Foam coverage: Systems designed for AFFF may deliver insufficient foam coverage with lower-expansion foams, potentially requiring increased foam volumes or reconfiguration of discharge layouts to maintain equivalent performance.
• Water supply demands: Environmentally friendly foams may require more water to achieve similar expansion ratios, which can strain the system’s water supply infrastructure. Upgrading water flow capacity, increasing storage tank sizes, or installing booster pumps may be necessary to meet these higher demands.
• Matching approvals: Systems designed and approved according to standards such as FM, UL, VdS, etc., mean the individual components of the foam concentrate, foam discharge devices and proportioning system must match. Otherwise, the approval is void.
Considering the complete system design, an increase in expansion ratio means the complete system can potentially be addressed by changing to discharge devices providing better expansion rations, where possible, while ensuring any common standards are met (UL, FM etc.). This potentially has the least impact on an overall system if addressed.
2. Viscosity and its influence on proportioning and flow dynamics
Viscosity plays a critical role in foam proportioning and system flow dynamics. Fluorine-free foams often have higher viscosities than AFFF, presenting unique challenges for proportioning equipment and system efficiency.
Impact on proportioning equipment
Proportioning systems mix foam concentrate with water at a precise ratio to ensure consistent foam performance. The higher viscosity of environmentally friendly foams can affect this process:
• Pump performance: Many existing systems use pumps designed for lowviscosity AFFF, which may struggle to handle thicker fluorine-free foams. This can lead to inconsistent proportioning, requiring pump upgrades or adjustments to maintain proper performance.
• Eductor compatibility: In-line eductors, commonly used for foam proportioning, may not function effectively with highviscosity foams. Larger or specifically calibrated eductors may be needed to achieve the correct foam-to-water ratio, necessitating consultation with system manufacturers.
System flow dynamics
The increased viscosity of fluorine-free foams affects how they flow through pipes and hoses:
• Pressure loss: High-viscosity foams create greater friction within pipes, leading to pressure drops and slower foam delivery. Systems originally designed for low-viscosity AFFF may require reconfiguration, such as increased pipe diameters or the addition of booster pumps, to ensure efficient foam delivery.
• Testing and calibration: After transitioning to fluorine-free foams, system testing is essential to identify flow inconsistencies, pressure variations, or bottlenecks that could compromise firefighting effectiveness. Testing with a wide-range proportioner not affected by flow or pressure can provide both peace of mind and a cost-effective solution to increasing the costs of foam concentrate.
The viscosity of foam concentrate affects the proportioning element of the system. This can be addressed using waterdriven foam proportioners due to their adaptability to different foam types. Educted systems relying on a venturi for accurate proportioning are sensitive to flow or pressure fluctuations, leading to inconsistent foam quality. Although historically effective, venturi-based systems may present problems with correct proportioning rates.
Where a single foam system protects multiple hazards, this change in viscosity primarily affects the foam proportioning element of a foam system. FireDos water-driven foam proportioners provide the advantage of a centralised foam system due to their inherent adaptability to multiple foam types with multiple viscosities, such as the non-Newtonian, shear-thinning, and pseudoplastic foam concentrates, sometimes typical properties of SFFF concentrates.
Additionally, as the system automatically proportions at the correct percentage across a broad flow rate range, commissioning and maintenance are inherently very simple, as no calibration is required.
3. Application rate: ensuring effective fire suppression
The application rate – measured in litres per minute per square metre (L/min.m2) or gallons per minute per square foot (gpm/sq.ft) – defines the amount of foam concentrate needed to extinguish a fire effectively while maintaining coverage. With environmentally friendly foams, application rates often differ from those of AFFF, requiring adjustments to meet
performance standards. As AFFF and Alcohol Resistant-AFFF (AR-AFFF) have been used to great effect on multiple petrochemicals and crude oil, the same cannot be said for SFFF as a ‘one size fits all’ solution. This means the onus is on the end user/foam manufacturer to provide test results for specific compounds.
Adjusting
discharge systems
• Increased discharge capacity: Discharge devices, such as monitors and sprinklers, may need recalibration or replacement to meet the higher flow demands of sustainable foams. Additional discharge points or devices with higher output capacities may also be required.
• Foam blanket stability: Maintaining a stable foam blanket is critical for suppressing fires involving flammable liquids. Testing is essential to determine the correct application rate and ensure the foam type can sustain fire suppression over time.
Water supply and system automation
• Water supply enhancements: Increased water demands may necessitate larger storage tanks, higher-capacity pumps, or backup water sources to sustain prolonged firefighting operations.
• Real-time monitoring: Advanced control and monitoring systems can help manage application rates dynamically, ensuring optimal foam output during firefighting operations.
If using a new foam type and the application rate exceeds that of the existing foam type, a check of the complete system is required to ensure the system can meet overall demand, including the pump flows, pipework diameters and foam proportioner capabilities.
Preparing for a sustainable future
The transition to environmentally friendly firefighting foams presents an opportunity to align fire safety systems with modern environmental and regulatory standards. However, this shift requires careful planning, system testing and potential upgrades to equipment and infrastructure.
One major advantage of FireDos water-driven foam proportioners is the ability to test the foam proportioning rate at any time without discharging premix, therefore saving on the replacement costs of foam concentrate. This is done by measuring the flow rates of the respective water flow rate vs the foam concentrate and dividing the foam concentrate into the overall flow rate.
Volumetric foam agent flow rate V 2 [l/min]
Volumetric flow rate (water) V1 [l/min] +
Volumetrc flow rate (foam agent) V2 (l/min]
× 100 = proportioning rate [%]
Companies can ensure that their fire suppression systems maintain high performance while reducing environmental impact by addressing key factors such as foam expansion characteristics, viscosity and application rate. Engaging with system manufacturers and engineers is essential to identify necessary modifications and implement sustainable solutions.
Transitioning to fluorine-free foams is not merely a regulatory obligation but a forward-looking step towards safer, more sustainable firefighting practices. FireDos is committed to assisting engineers, contractors and end users worldwide in achieving their fire protection goals. firedos.com
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The concept of accessible design in real estate and urban planning has gained considerable traction as industry professionals and policymakers begin to recognise its profound impact on building safety and overall quality of life. Oscar Wendel, Chairman, Global Stratalogues, shares more
The recent Global Stratalogues’ roundtables on accessible design, which took place in Dubai, shed light on the value of accessibility. They explored how accessibility influences property value, financing, long-term sustainability and building safety in the UAE and GCC. The session brought together industry leaders from diverse fields, including real estate, banking and fire safety, to discuss how accessible design can unlock hidden value in the real estate sector.
Accessible design is not only a legal requirement in the Middle East but also a strategic imperative for enhancing building and fire safety. By prioritising accessibility, real estate developers and property owners can create environments that are safer, more inclusive and ultimately more valuable.
Accessibility, often associated with inclusivity, plays a crucial role in enhancing building safety and security. By designing spaces that are easy to navigate for everyone, including people with disabilities, we inadvertently improve safety protocols and create a space that can expedite evacuations during emergencies. Additionally, by accommodating diverse user needs, we strengthen overall security measures, making spaces safer for all.
Well-designed buildings with accessible features, such as ramps, elevators and clear signage, facilitate easy evacuation in emergency situations. In the event of a fire, accessible pathways and clear escape routes can significantly reduce the risk of injury or loss of life. Additionally, accessible features like
wider doorways and lower countertops can improve the efficiency of firefighting operations, allowing emergency responders to reach and assist individuals with disabilities more effectively.
Talking at the roundtable, Aaron McDaid, a Middle East leader in Design Confidence, said: “You can’t just design to comply; you’ve got to figure out how to get people out of a building in emergency situations. We looked at areas that would be safe for people with disabilities in the fire stairs. These areas would have communication systems to connect with the fire control room.”
The
growing
demand for accessible design
As Dubai’s demographic shifts, accessible design is critical to attracting high-
net-worth individuals and retirees, groups increasingly focused on ease of access and quality communal facilities. Villa communities, for example, are increasingly prioritising accessible features to accommodate older residents and retirees seeking more comfortable, accessible living environments. This demographic shift towards long-term residency has boosted interest in accessible designs, especially in highdemand communities. Developments that integrate accessibility, such as Town Square, are serving as models for creating inclusive communities that accommodate families, seniors and people with disabilities alike.
Retrofitting older properties for accessibility
One of the crucial points underscored by the panelists at the roundtable was the importance of retrofitting older properties to meet contemporary accessibility standards, especially as newer regional Giga projects set benchmarks for accessible and sustainable design. Retrofitting these older buildings is a financial investment and a way to secure long-term value as demand for inclusive living spaces grows. While new developments incorporate accessibility by design, older buildings often require extensive modifications. Retrofitting older properties will be crucial to remain competitive, especially in an evolving landscape where accessible spaces are increasingly valued.
Leveraging AI to enhance accessibility
The discussions explored how advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance accessibility and improve urban planning. AI technology allows developers to monitor comfort levels and behaviour patterns in real-time, enabling developers to identify and address accessibility needs more effectively. By analysing data from security cameras and sensors, developers can pinpoint areas lacking accessibility and implement timely changes to improve the user experience. This data-driven approach allows city planners and developers to simulate and predict the effects of accessibility decisions, enabling them to adapt spaces to meet users’ needs better.
AI applications, such as those used in Dubai Mall, where visitor satisfaction is gauged through facial expressions and
movement patterns, are examples of how technology can improve user experience. By allowing real-time adjustments based on visitor feedback, AI is helping developers design inclusive and comfortable spaces for all users.
Competitive edge through accessibility and quality design
In an increasingly competitive market, accessibility is seen as a significant advantage. Accessible spaces benefit those with specific needs and enhance the overall experience for all users. Accessibility considerations are becoming points of differentiation in the property market as more buyers and renters prioritise inclusive and high-quality spaces. Accessible and inclusive designs align with a growing market demand for spaces that provide comfort, security and ease of use.
Developers and consultants are encouraged to go beyond governmentmandated accessibility standards, viewing these requirements as a starting point rather than an endpoint. Stakeholders in the real estate sector are beginning to see accessibility as a factor that enhances brand reputation, with accessible
properties seen as more desirable and ultimately more valuable. This approach aligns with a broader vision of creating welcoming, inclusive spaces that offer an improved quality of life for residents.
Accessibility as a long-term investment
Ultimately the roundtable concluded that accessibility should be viewed not as an expense but as an investment in property value and quality of life. In today’s evolving market, incorporating accessibility meets more than just a niche need; it represents a future-oriented approach where buildings cater to everyone, ensuring spaces are usable, safe and welcoming. This commitment to accessible design is poised to shape the future of real estate in Dubai and enhance urban life across the GCC.
Accessible design offers tangible benefits, from attracting a wider audience to maintaining long-term value and fostering inclusive communities. As the real estate market evolves, accessible design is increasingly being recognised as a core aspect of property value, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Above: Maryan Haidar, Accessibility Consultant; Mark Painter, Principal, Design Confidence; and Oscar Wendel, Global Stratalogues
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How codes and standards and fire safety product development work together
Len Swantek, Director, Global Regulatory Compliance at Victaulic, examines how opportunities for the development of new fire safety products and technologies can play a role in the modification of a wide range of codes and standards as well as new safety and performance criteria
The dynamic interplay between technological advancements, evolving building designs and heightened safety concerns necessitates a continuous evolution of fire safety standards. This complex interplay is driven by a multitude of factors, including realworld fire incidents, advancements in materials science and evolving regulatory landscapes.
The important message here is that the need for improvements in fire safety standards has an equally strong influence on the advancement of fire safety technologies. In the same way, the demand for new technology requires codes and standards that can accommodate new product innovations, materials and technologies. There is a cross-collaboration with these two processes and each works closely in parallel to achieve mutually beneficial results.
Real-World Events Drive Change
Real-world events often serve as catalysts for change, driving the need for stricter regulations and improved safety measures. A fire event of any magnitude is quickly communicated regionally and even globally along with photos, video and a multitude of commentary. Yet most people go about their business unaware of the investigations, research and follow-up actions to be taken in the ensuing weeks and months. For those who actively participate on fire safety codes and standards committees, these
events become urgent priority topics to be addressed at both regular committee sessions as well as emergency meetings called by the governing standards organisations.
These tragedies highlight vulnerabilities in existing regulations and spur the development of more stringent requirements. In the wake of such events, standards committees often expedite the review and revision of relevant codes to prevent similar disasters in the future.
The Standards Development Process
The process of developing new standards can be quite time-consuming and the people who dedicate their time and effort to these initiatives can be faced with
numerous, and sometimes overlapping, challenges.
Many new fire codes and related system performance criteria are based on real-world industry events that have resulted in loss of life, personal injury and significant property damage. We too often learn important lessons after a significant event has occurred that may otherwise have been prevented. Having said this, there is continuous effort and priority given to many of these critical topics by way of the standards committees, supporting task groups and manufacturers’ product development initiatives.
When a new standard is being proposed, the governing standards organisations (for example NFPA, CEN
and ISO) organise their members with a specific objective or technical problem that must be evaluated and solved, along with new or modified requirements integrated into existing fire safety codes and standards. Depending on the problem and the overall objective the committee has established, the participating members can be drawn from many disciplines and areas of expertise including building owners, insurance underwriters, AHJs, fire investigators and inspectors, certifying agencies, fire safety design professionals, fire system and component manufacturers, consultants, special interest and lobbying groups as well as the general public.
With the objective established along with preliminary timelines, the standards committees get to work drafting requirements based on the collective input of the participating members of the committee. These early discussions and collaborations can be particularly challenging due to the number of opinions and perspectives being offered across a wide range of inter-related topics. Sorting through the massive amount of information and statistical data being presented can be a challenging task to manage.
Reaching Consensus
Because many of the issues being discussed through each committee and task group are sensitive and often controversial, great care and consideration must be extended by all who participate in these deliberations. Because of the depth of knowledge and experience brought to the code committees through their vast memberships, it is nearly impossible to avoid debate and arguments over certain criteria and code language that is being proposed. Technical language specific to product performance requirements can also be heavily debated between competing manufacturers, especially
when one or both are trying to bring new technology to the market. The detailed and somewhat intricate discussions typically take place in sub-committee or task group meetings, where many hours are consumed analysing data and historical information to bring focus to the most relevant and critically important criteria. Most committee procedures require that these complicated discussions be managed at the task group level outside the main committee meetings, to provide for an efficient and effective means of consensus-building and agreement among the full membership.
Additionally, the fire safety certification agencies play an important role in providing correlating data, analysis and trends in building material and component performance under a wide range of laboratory test conditions, as well as in real-world fire simulations. Literally, hundreds of such tests have been conducted over many years and involve a wide range of fire protection products and systems. While this information and the related design details are the confidential intellectual property of each manufacturer, there are circumstances where the members of a task group may be required to execute non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in order for the relevant and required information, such as detailed test data, material formulations, calculations, computer models and animations and a wide range of performance simulations, to be shared openly and enable the code development process to advance unobstructed. In the case where a single manufacturer has developed a new product or technology however, the scope of the existing standard(s) does not currently address such technology, the committee Chair will call for additional manufacturers’ representatives to participate and provide input to ensure the creation of a fair and balanced set of performance criteria, within the legal bounds of the NDAs.
Improving life safety is the top priority at the forefront of every meeting, and the
committee Chair must ensure that this focus remains in place over many weeks and months of consensus building. Strong opinions in one direction or another can sway the committee’s position on any topic, and this is where the statistics and technical data become increasingly important.
The Balloting Process
When the task groups have finally completed all of their work and all members have provided their input on a new draft standard, the draft document in some cases may be made available for industry review and public comment. While this process is typically managed over a controlled time period, the additional feedback can result in supplemental requirements or changes to the original draft. All changes are then reviewed by the task group and main committee members before the document is made available for official ballot. However, even during the balloting process, there are opportunities for comments and revisions, especially when new technology or a new product innovation is involved. It is not uncommon for the committee’s subject-matter experts (SMEs) to have to prepare technical summaries and detailed justification statements for the voting membership to fully understand the objective and proposed outcome when the new standard is adopted and put into practice.
Throughout these individual and collective steps in the process, the equipment and component manufacturers have many opportunities to adjust their own product development strategies and market direction based on the path the standards committee is taking. This greatly helps in the alignment of test requirements and other criteria that will become a published standard, which in turn will be used for the qualification of the related product and/or technology by each manufacturer. www.victaulic.com
Lessons in flame
Protecting lives, preventing tragedy: Brett Shinn, Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants, Dubai branch, explores the power of passive fire protection and building cladding to avoid future fire catastrophe
The Grenfell Tower Fire in June 2017 has made Grenfell itself a household name in the UK, worldwide, and especially in the fire safety community. That fire, however, was not an isolated incident, nor its causes, and here in the Middle East we have witnessed a few fires which beg a broader understanding of the behaviour of fires in external façades.
The following discussion will delve into important concepts of the different facets of fire protection and how they relate to hypothetical fires; however, it will specifically stray away from offering expert opinion on the cause of any actual fires, the outcome of related investigations, or professional or ethical shortcomings which exist in the scope of liability.
A brief philosophy of fire protection modalities
In order to understand how and why a cladding fire may be allowed to expand to
catastrophic and devastating magnitudes, irrespective of the source, it takes, in part, a brief understanding of passive fire protection. Fire protection, for simple intents and purposes, is broken down in the chart overleaf, and these discussions explore in more depth one part of cladding fires: passive fire protection in cladding systems, focused on in the diagram overleaf.
Passive fire protection, also for simple intents, is broken into three widely agreed upon subcategories:
i. Propagation of Fire: measurements in static pass/fail criteria of a systems proclivity to allow fire to propagate vertically upwards or horizontally outwards. (e.g. cladding systems).
ii. Reaction to Fire: measurements in static classification brackets for a material or system to have its combustibility, calorific value, or other small scale metrics quantified.
iii. Resistance to Fire: measurements in time of a system’s ability to compartmentalise or separate fire (e.g. walls, door, dampers, penetrations).
However, that’s understandably confusing, so let’s look at an example about cladding. If you’re a cladding supplier bidding on a project in the UAE, you need to satisfy a few fire tests outlined in the Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice. Chapter 1, §4.5 outlines General Requirements for Exterior Facades, then Table 1.14a, 1.15a, 1.16a, and 1.17a outline the required fire tests for different types of façades (i.e. metal composite and ACP, EIFS, GRFC, sandwich panels, or other products) based on the application, occupancy and elevation.
Largely, those break out into two categories: reaction to fire testing using various test standards under a broader classifications standard called EN 13501-1,
or American equivalents, and propagation to fire testing under either NFPA 285 or BS 8414-1 & 2. That is to say that in order to get a façade on the side of a building, one needs to (1) demonstrate that the individual components of their façade are not constituently flammable and (2) demonstrate that their façade in a large-scale test will not allow for flame to propagate up the side of the building when assembled as a system. After all, a façade can take many forms as the sum of its parts.
However, those tables from the fire and life safety code also outline requirements for resistance to fire in the event that a façade is being used for compartmentalisation, like an internal wall or an external wall which is in close proximity to another building, finishing the triangle of propagation, reaction and resistance.
Looking at hypothetical fires
Philosophically and to understand the modalities of passive fire protection, we can consider two examples, below. It’s important to remember that the vein of discussing passive protection in a high-rise is that a high-rise building has surfaces and areas which are largely inaccessible to a street-level fire hose, so any appropriate response time grows, or an appropriate response may simply be unavailable.
Example one
In example one, let’s consider a hypothetical high-rise tower of roughly 86 floors. For the sake of discussion and simplicity, it has a square (or rectangular) footprint with four corners and exists in a densely developed city block amongst other similar-height towers, some of which may exist on various lists for the highest residential or commercial towers either in the world or in a given region.
Consider that this building has each of its corners cladded continuously from bottom to top, unbroken, with a material regulated in a life safety code – like Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP). The centres of each side of the building, from bottom to top, are either balconies or glass, or otherwise not a continuous medium of regulated material.
The source of an external fire in this building would, presumably, be on a lower floor and on the exterior, and the actual source could be many things. In any case, something ignites an ACP unit and a fire propagates, uncontrolled, from the source all the way to the top of the building.
- Sprinklers & H2O
- Extinguishers
- Alarm Systems
Fire Safety General Fire & Life Safety
- Egress Strategy - Planning 7 Procedures Passive Fire Protection Active Fire Protection
Example one touches on two parts of the passive fire protection triangle: (1) reaction to fire properties of constituent materials and (2) propagation of fire properties of the system as a whole. The very ability, or characteristic, of a panel (or other material) to ignite and stay ignited indicates inadequacies of constituent properties like ignition temperature, calorific value, or a lack of ability to self-extinguish, or otherwise properties evaluated under the EN 13501-1 classification standard and associated test methods. But, the system is a sum of its parts and the ability of fire to propagate up one corner of the building indicates inadequacies of the system as a whole. One of the largest contributing factors to the fire behaviour of a cladding system is the depth of the cavity behind the panels and where, if any, method of cavity isolation is placed; this is called the chimney effect. In the broader scope of risk evaluation, fire may only propagate up one corner of the building, leaving the risk of the remaining three corners in future fires in the absence of a complete façade retrofit.
Example two
In example two, however, the chief characteristics of example one also apply in as much as there is continuous regulated medium from the bottom to the top of the building. The source of this fire, though, can be internal or external; the scope of this example applies to both, but the internal scenario helps to illustrate
the third part of the passive fire protection triangle: resistance to fire.
In this case, a fire perhaps starts on the interior of a building, travels through the compartments of the building to the outside, then propagates upwards on the exterior. The ability of the fire to travel internally from compartment to compartment may indicate an inadequacy of compartmentalisation abilities of walls, floors, doors and other elements which serve a separating function, which all have their performance evaluated under resistance to fire testing standards. Once it reaches the exterior of the building, the same nuances from example one apply. What’s more, however, is that resistance to fire properties look less at qualities like ignition temperature and self-extinguishment than reaction or propagation and, in a practical case, more at the time an element can separate (resist) fire from one compartment to the other while external systems are activated – like sprinklers and fire crews. If a fire is truly allowed to travel through compartments within a building, it may indicate inadequacies in not just resistance to fire properties, but also active fire protection, highlighted in the diagram above.
Looking ahead in fire protection
For more information on fire safety regulations and compliant building materials, contact Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants at fire@bellwright.com or visit www.bell-wright.com.
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AI IGNITES FIRE SAFETY
Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, VP –
Health, Safety and Environment,
King Salman International Complex, welcomes a new era in fire safety as he takes a closer look at advanced fire detection, protection and prevention using artificial intelligence
In recent years, the landscape of fire safety has experienced a notable evolution, driven by the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI). Conventional fire detection and prevention techniques, although somewhat effective, frequently depend on reactive strategies addressing fires only after they have started. AI has initiated a transformative phase in fire safety by improving early detection, enabling real-time monitoring, facilitating predictive risk assessment and refining firefighting strategies. AI has the capability to transform fire detection, protection and prevention systems, with the goal of enhancing the safeguarding of lives and property.
AI-Enhanced Fire Detection: An Advancement in Early Warning Mechanisms
AI-powered fire detection systems represent a significant advancement over traditional fire alarms and smoke detectors. These systems employ sophisticated algorithms, sensors and real-time data evaluation to detect potential fire hazards prior to their escalation. Essential technologies comprise:
AI-enabled cameras: Capable of real-time monitoring of visual data, identifying smoke, flames or unusual heat signatures. These systems are capable of examining video feeds to detect nuanced indicators of fire hazards, including smoldering materials or gas leaks, significantly ahead of the activation of a traditional alarm.
AI-driven smoke detection: Conventional smoke detectors frequently encounter challenges with false alarms triggered by dust or steam. AI algorithms possess the capability to distinguish between typical environmental smoke and the specific types linked to fire outbreaks. This reduces the occurrence of false alarms and facilitates faster, more precise responses.
Environmental sensors and monitoring: AI can assimilate data from temperature, humidity and gas sensors, systematically evaluating conditions that may lead to fire. The AI system issues warnings when environmental factors approach potentially hazardous thresholds, aiming to prevent fires before they ignite.
Predictive Risk Assessment: Mitigating Fire Incidents
Proactively
One notable benefit of AI lies in its ability to make predictions. Through the analysis of historical data, environmental factors and occupancy trends, AI is capable of evaluating fire risk and determining the priority of preventive measures. This predictive intelligence is essential for enhancing proactive fire safety measures.
Assessment of building and infrastructure: AI systems are capable of evaluating the fire safety of a structure by examining the functionality of fire alarms, sprinklers and the adequacy of escape routes. They can identify weaknesses and verify that safety features operate effectively and adhere to regulatory standards.
Occupancy and traffic patterns: AI is capable of examining human movement and occupancy trends as they occur in real-time. Analysing peak times in a building or specific areas, such as high-traffic corridors, allows AI to forecast when and where fire risks are most likely to arise.
Environmental risk monitoring: AI models evaluate wildfire risks through the analysis of weather conditions, vegetation density and historical fire data. Authorities can implement preventive measures, including the management of flammable vegetation and the issuance of timely alerts to surrounding communities.
Firefighting tactics: AI-driven systems enable firefighters to utilise data to make well-informed decisions during emergencies, which could lead to saving lives and minimising property damage.
Fire spread prediction: AI models are capable of examining real-time data, including wind speed, temperature and fuel loads, to forecast the direction and intensity of a fire. This enables firefighting teams to allocate resources with greater efficiency and anticipate the trajectory of the fire.
Optimisation of resources: AI is capable of assessing the best distribution of firefighting personnel
“AI has the capability to transform fire detection, protection and prevention systems”
and equipment in relation to the intensity of the fire and the resources at hand. This approach optimises the effectiveness of fire containment and extinguishment.
Hazard detection: In the context of firefighting operations, the implementation of AI can facilitate the identification of hazardous materials, assess structural weaknesses and predict potential collapses, thereby providing firefighters with essential information to enhance their safety.
An Examination of the Future of Fire Safety through the Lens of AI
The incorporation of AI into fire detection, prevention and protection systems is transforming the fire safety environment. Utilising AI’s capacity to analyse extensive datasets, identify irregularities and forecast potential hazards allows for
a shift from a reactive approach to a proactive fire safety framework. With the ongoing advancements in AI technology, we can anticipate a range of innovative applications that will enhance our capabilities in fire prevention, property protection and life-saving efforts. AI provides a transformative method for enhancing fire safety, allowing us to identify fires at an earlier stage, assess potential risks and react to emergencies with exceptional insight.
As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more sophisticated applications, such as predictive maintenance for fire safety systems, realtime risk assessment, and autonomous firefighting drones. By embracing AI, we can significantly enhance our ability to protect lives, property and the environment from the devastating impact of fire.
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Drawing on his own personal thoughts and sentiments, Bob Rea, explores the sensitive issue of the mental health toll on first responders
Having recognised the increasing importance of mental health within the fire service and wider emergency services, I am writing about mental health within the emergency services. This personal reflection, written in collaboration with my daughter who has knowledge of this topic, aims to shed light on the challenges faced by those working in these demanding professions.
There are several phases used frequently which are a good opening point:
“It is okay not to be okay!” is one that most of us are familiar with. My question for a starting position is how many individuals and organisations actually believe or live up to supporting this?
I am an avid country music fan (before that stops you reading), and Jelly Roll, a country singer, has a song with the title
I am not okay. It continues with:
I am not okay
I’m barely getting by
I’m losing track of days
And losing sleep at night
I am not okay
I’m hanging on the rails
So if I say I’m fine
Just know I learned to hide it well”
(Gorley A, Brown C, Jelly Roll)
I could not find words better to describe some of the challenges experienced by those who suffer from mental health issues. The song clearly identifies the veneer shield that people develop to project an expected outward image. The stigma of admitting that you are experiencing mental health issues is one that needs to be quashed!
I would go as far as to challenge anyone in the Emergency Services’ global family who states they do not suffer from some form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The saying “I wish my mind could forget the things my eyes have seen”, captures the meaning of my statement. As a human being, we cannot witness the traumas our community experiences without it having an affect on us. We join the services to help people in their times of trouble, but we are human too and as such we have feelings and challenges both within and outside the service.
But what other stressors affect us? What else causes us stress and generates anxiety or depression? It is important to identify that not all stresses are related to incidents, as often during the attendance at an incident the adrenaline is running high and blocks the images from the conscious mind. It is only once the adrenaline has subsided that the images may be relived. The workload, relationships at work and family, along with finances can have a significant and stressful impact.
Meeting basic needs
In my random approach to this, I reflected on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the five levels explaining the basic human needs and how we are motivated.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory proposed by Abraham Maslow in 1943. It suggests that human motivation is driven by the fulfilment of specific needs, organised in a hierarchy.
Physiological Needs (Basic Needs)
These are essential for survival: food, water, air, sleep, shelter, clothing.
Safety Needs (Basic Needs)
Once physiological needs are met, the focus shifts to safety and security: Physical safety (freedom from harm or danger), financial security (steady income or savings), health and well-being, stable living and working environments.
SELFACTUALISATION
Love and Belonging
(Psychological Needs)
This level involves emotional relationships and social connections: Friendship, family bonds, romantic relationships, sense of belonging in groups or communities.
Esteem Needs (Psychological Needs) People seek self-respect and recognition from others: Confidence and achievement, respect from others, status and recognition, independence and competence.
Self-Actualisation
(Self-fulfilment Needs)
This is the highest level, focusing on achieving one’s full potential: Pursuing personal growth, creativity and innovation, fulfilling unique talents or purpose, moral and ethical selfdevelopment.
When we examine the context and content of Maslow’s theory, we can see that key elements of our wellbeing are aligned to belonging and the feeling of self-worth. Which align to the six criteria associated with mental health: self-confidence, self-actualisation, integration, autonomy, reality perception and environmental mastery. (Encyclopedia.com, n.d.)
Damaging potential
But, how easy is it for organisations, individuals or groups to damage that fundamental requirement. A callous remark, an orchestrated campaign of overt or covert bullying and harassment, cronyism, misogynism, prejudice – be it race, religion, gender or other – are but a few of the potentials.
There can also be a destructive pack mentality or individual self-protection, where an individual is singled out and vilified for personal agendas, as George Orwell alluded to pack behaviour and societal breakdown of order in Lord of the Flies. This is something that managers must address or identify and investigate to find the cause.
It is vital they deal with the bullies and liars and protect the individual from the detrimental and often destructive isolating effects and the resulting mental health challenges. Failing to challenge negative or inappropriate behaviours is a causal effect of the deterioration of mental health for the individual who is being targeted. We all have a responsibility to challenge these behaviours and make our colleagues feel a valued part of the team. This, I believe, will help in reducing the occurrences of work-related stress by
Figure 1 Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
supporting the self esteem, and love and belonging elements of Maslow’s Theory.
Boxing it up
I have an analogy which I use to describe everyone’s capacity to deal with these stresses and challenges. I believe everyone has a box in which we place our traumas and bad experiences and close the lid. Some of us have large boxes, some are smaller, so what happens when we keep placing items in the box? If we do not find a way to remove some of the items, eventually the lid bulges until it can no longer be closed and all the past traumas flood out. And so we face a mental health crisis.
I want managers, colleagues, friends and family to understand their role in identifying and helping people who are struggling. We should be able to identify behavioural changes or other indicators. Signs and symptoms of mental health challenges can vary widely depending on the condition, but they generally fall into emotional, behavioural, physical and cognitive categories. Recognising these signs early can help guide individuals to seek appropriate support.
Emotional symptoms
• Persistent sadness, low mood, or feelings of hopelessness.
• Excessive worry, fear, or anxiety.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
• Irritability, anger, or mood swings.
• Detachment or withdrawal from loved ones.
Behavioural symptoms
• Changes in sleeping patterns (insomnia or excessive sleep).
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
• Substance use or abuse (alcohol, drugs, etc.).
• Difficulty managing responsibilities (work or home).
• Avoidance of social interactions or isolation.
• Self-harm behaviours (e.g., cutting, burning).
Physical symptoms
• Unexplained aches, pains, or fatigue.
• Changes in appetite or weight (eating too much or too little).
• Gastrointestinal issues without a clear medical cause.
• Rapid heart rate or shortness of breath (often associated with anxiety).
“The
debilitating symptoms of a mental health crisis are real”
Cognitive symptoms
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
• Racing thoughts or a sense of being overwhelmed.
• Negative thought patterns or excessive self-criticism.
• Suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm.
• Delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations (in severe cases).
Many have and continue to criticise the Watch system used in the UK Fire and Rescue Service, where multiple reports into the culture have identified and highlighted the negatives. However, I do believe that there are many positives, especially in defusing post-incidents, where as a team you are able to support each other through the experience. Consider the effects on officers; they travel to the incident alone, experience the incident with the others there. Then, especially during the night hours, return to a sleeping family alone with their own thoughts.
Seeking help
Most organisations will have access to an Employee Assistance Programme, which will offer a limited number of counselling sessions, but by managers and colleagues recognising symptoms early they can help promote recovery, supporting and understanding individuals through their healing process. Organisations will purport to being Mental Health Champions, but in effect all they are doing is signposting to agencies. They need to improve their education, training and direct support capabilities to prevent and promote recovery from occurrences of mental health crises.
The debilitating symptoms of a mental health crisis are real, from the fears of leaving the house, people not being on time, meeting colleagues, seeing organisations’ uniforms, entering an organisation’s premises, unable to concentrate or cope with pressures and
decision making, changes in verbal capabilities – stuttering and unable to compile sentences. These are just some of the identifiable effects. I know there are many more, but I wanted to give an example to increase awareness.
A friend was beating themselves up recently for missing a message from one of their friends who reached out. Can I please ask those who read this to recognise the benefit of reaching out. Despite the veneer of coping, many are not and are finding it hard. I indulge myself by including some lines from a post I made in 2020.
“Remember, the importance of finding positives in every experience is important, seeing that fate puts us where we are due to be! Difficult I know through experience as much as anyone…
“The lows are personal but suffice to say they hurt and leave scars like we all bear, which helps shape who we are.
“I have learnt about friends’ struggles that I was unaware of, which saddens me! As if I had been a true friend I should have seen through the veneer!
I ask you all to look inside yourselves as I am doing and recognise the times we have not responded to a text or call as these may be the reach out from our friends! Let us make 2021 the year of caring! My phone is always on should you need! Please don’t think I will not listen! I willingly offer my ears and heart.” (Rea R 2020)
I end this piece and remind you that these are my daughter’s and my thoughts on the subject, not based in medical fact but experience and observation. I hope I have stimulated you and raised your awareness of how individuals can be affected and how we can help. Challenge the behaviours that can contribute to a mental health crisis, look for the indicators, support people going through it, help organisations grow into a truly supportive one and have empathy. Thank you for reading and having made it to the end, if you have time listen to the Jelly Roll song I am Not Okay
Viking HLX | Maximizing safety and efficiency for sensitive environments
Adrian Ramirez Cedrés Product manager for the gas product line at Viking EMEA
Viking EMEA will be launching a new gas fire protection system at Intersec Dubai in January 2025. Whether in compact control rooms or expansive data centers, the new Viking HLX1230 ensures comprehensive fire protection that boosts both safety and efficiency. Let’s hear from Adrian Ramirez Cedrés, Product manager for gas product line, about this innovative system.
What is Viking HLX?
Viking HLX1230 is the next generation of Halocarbon Extinguishing system, delivering optimal fire safety by using the FK-5-1-12 agent. While maintaining the same reliable performance, the HLX introduces advanced technology that enhances both safety and efficiency across various spaces, making it particularly suitable for electrical and electronic risks such as data centers, control rooms, as well as for archives.
What is the new technology of the HLX?
Our R&D team has designed a quick release valve with a vertical, upright discharge - the first of its kind on the market. This innovative valve minimizes friction loss, ensuring a smooth, straight-up flow of the agent around the core. This breakthrough brings several advantages, such as the ability to fill cylinders with more agent, reducing the number or size of cylinders needed to cover the same area. With a low minimum nozzle pressure, the HLX enables higher cylinder fill levels and consequently reduces sound emissions. Futhremore, this lower pressure enables greater coverage with fewer nozzles and pipes.
What are the other advantages of this system?
There are many! To name just a few:
• No residual agent left in the cylinder after discharge.
• Quick installation for faster deployment.
• Suitable for spaces of all sizes, from small rooms to vast ones.
• Safe agent release in case of a burst disc rupture into connected downstream pipework, preventing risk and cylinder tilt.
• Easy, tool-free readiness check, accessible even for the end user.
What additional tools do you recommend?
Alongside the HLX, we offer the new Viking Ultrasonic Liquid Level Indicator, providing a quick, non-invasive and accurate way to monitor the agent quantity in a seamless cylinder.
Last few words?
Don’t hesitate to visit our booth during Intersec Dubai, where we will officially launch the Viking HLX. We’ll showcase a prototype of the system and provide in-depth technical information.
Viking Arabia FZE | Jafza Views 19 Office #2007 | Post Box No. 17531 | Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai United Arab Emirates | Tel.: +971 (0)4 8895 561 | vikingdubai@viking-emea.com
Responsible use of C6 Fluorine Chemistry and to providing its products to firefighting foam manufacturers.
Good practices, Life Safety, and Flammable Liquid Protection remain Dynax’s North Star.
As high hazard, flammable liquid emergencies are occurring world-wide, a recap is needed:
C6 AFFFs and AR-AFFFs remain the highest performing firefighting products for flammable liquids.
C6 Foam Concentrates are required for critical uses and major fire events.
C6 Foam Concentrates are proven and e ective with decades of successful extinguishments.
Reminder of Best Practice:
C6 Foam Concentrates should not be used for testing or training. In cases of fire events or accidental release, C6 Foam Concentrate run-o should be controlled and captured. Refer to Dynax SDSs for region specific product use and disposal information.
Recent Specific Updates:
Universal EU PFAS ban proposal does not cover PFAS in Firefighting Foams.
The proposal for PFAS in Firefighting Foam includes a 10 year derogation for Seveso III sites.
IWMC to return to the UK
The 24th International Water Mist Conference (IWMC) is set to return to the UK. The event, organised by the International Water Mist Association (IWMA), will take place in Manchester on 24th and 25th September 2025. The conference hotel will be the Hyatt Regency, with IWMA expecting well over 100 attendees from around the globe.
For the first time, Max Lakkonen (IFAB), the new IWMA President, will declare the event open. The members of IWMA elected their new chairman during the member meeting in September. The former IWMA President, Are Brandt (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), had to step down from this position after two terms (six years) according to the articles of the association.
Some important dates for your diary to be aware of: IWMA began requests for abstracts on the 15th December.
The abstract deadline will be 15th April. Tabletops for the exhibition, which will run alongside the conference, can be booked now. The conference webpage will be activated on 15th April. The programme will be published on 1st July and the early bird period will end on the 1st August.
Bettina McDowell, IWMA’s CEO, explained: “Tradition has it that day one of the event will especially focus on systems in practice. The case studies presented are particularly interesting for first-time attendees who wish to learn more about water mist. Day two will mainly be dedicated to science and research. Day-one only tickets will again be available.”
As always, the winner of the Ragnar Wighus Award will be granted a speaker slot. In 2025, the award will go to the best Ph.D. thesis dedicated to water mist. The deadline to apply is 31st
March. Submissions will be evaluated by the IWMA Scientific Council under the chairmanship of Bogdan Raciega (Baltic Fire Laboratory). Raciega was elected chairman of the council during the member meeting mentioned above, following in Lakkonen’s footsteps.
www.iwma.net
CASE STUDY
BlazeMaster® Fire Protection Systems
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems was the brand of choice for the first commercial CPVC fire sprinkler system in 1990 at the Fontainebleau Hilton Resort, a luxury hi-rise destination in the heart of Millionaires’ Row in Miami, Florida
SCOPE OF PROJECT: 36 storey, 460 unit, residential hi-rise
CONTRACTOR: HINGS, Inc.
The property
In 1990 the fire sprinkler industry witnessed something it had never seen before – the first-ever commercial installation of a CPVC fire sprinkler system from BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems. The installation was at the world-renowned Fontainebleau Hilton Resort, often described as the crown jewel of Millionaires’ Row on Miami Beach. With 920 Grand rooms and more than 50 suites, the Fontainebleau has been the choice of many high-profile guests including movie stars and US presidents.
The decision
The decision to go with a CPVC fire sprinkler system for the Fontainebleau was considered an innovative move given that metallic systems were the standard in the industry. Yet, ongoing problems with corrosion and other job site challenges prompted the Fontainebleau owners to put their faith in BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems: a CPVC system that, since the 1980s, has been used reliably throughout residential properties.
So pleased were the owners with the system that in 2004 they once again choose BlazeMaster CPVC for their next endeavour: the new 36-storey residence addition, known as Fontainebleau Tower (or Fontainebleau II).
The decision to use a BlazeMaster CPVC Fire Sprinkler System came from both the hotel’s owners and its developer. BlazeMaster CPVC pipe and fittings have excellent corrosion resistance. In addition, they are outstanding in their resistance to microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC). This benefit ensures a more reliable, maintenance-free system.
“In South Florida, there is a lot of concern about corrosion, especially near the beach where the Fontainebleau projects were both located. The concern starts already during construction, when the pipe is exposed on the jobsite to the humidity and the salt air.”
The contractor’s opinion
Enrique Suarez, Jr, Mechanical Engineer at Hufsey, Nicolaides, Garcia, Suarez Associates, Inc. (HINGS) was responsible for the engineering and design work at the Fontainebleau Tower.
He said: “BlazeMaster CPVC has become the accepted norm in the engineering design community. Everyone is using BlazeMaster CPVC today. It is definitely used throughout major light hazard projects in this region, more than metal.”
HINGS, which has been providing electrical and mechanical design services for more than 45 years for major office projects, hi-rises and condos along with medical, educational and municipal facilities has a long history of working with BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems.
“We first saw BlazeMaster CPVC pipe and fittings in various Marriott projects,” explained Suarez. “Then more and more engineers started specifying it. In South Florida, there is a lot of concern about
corrosion, especially near the beach where the Fontainebleau projects were both located. The concern starts already during construction, when the pipe is exposed on the jobsite to the humidity and the salt air.”
According to Suarez, economics also drive demand for CPVC systems. “Cost is one of the biggest problems with steel systems,” he noted. “You hear about it from all of the contractors. And with prices of steel, there is even more reason to go with BlazeMaster CPVC. We’ve seen a tremendous growth in its useage in this region. There is hardly an instance where a BlazeMaster CPVC sprinkler system is not specified.”
Benefits of the system
Other benefits that have made Suarez and his company supporters of the BlazeMaster Fire Protection System include ease of installation. “For the contractor, BlazeMaster CPVC pipe and
fittings are much easier to handle,” he said. “They are lighter in weight, easier to cut, fit and make changes on the job site, and allow you to get into tighter spaces with less difficulty.”
Because it is a cemented joint system and the BlazeMaster CPVC piping is somewhat flexible, it can be attached directly to a concrete ceiling. With steel there is a threaded pipe and screwed fitting, which requires a split ring hanger dropping from a ceiling – this limits the finished ceiling height.
Additionally, the BlazeMaster CPVC pipe can be run in return air plenums. And since BlazeMaster CPVC pipe and fittings have less friction loss than steel, contractors can reduce the pipe size being used.
For all of these reasons and many more, BlazeMaster CPVC has remained the material of choice for the luxurious Fontainebleau for several decades. www.blazemaster.com
Over 1000 exhibitors and 120,000 visitors are estimated to come.
Abundant Concurrent Events
2 Fire Forums and 30 Seminars focusing on latest equipment development and new innovation application possibilities.
Innovative Products Rating locking on applicable innovative products which came out in the past 2 years.
20 Live Performance Shows demonstrating real performance of new products in actual fire and rescue application.
10 Fire Safety Training Lessons aiming at improving fire safety awareness among normal people.
Scan the code for more info of Innovative Products 2023
FIRE SAFETY: A CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH
Richard King
AIFSM
BA (Hons), writing on behalf of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM), says customer satisfaction is an often overlooked component of effective fire safety
In the world of fire safety, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards is crucial. However, the focus on these technical aspects often overshadows the importance of customer satisfaction and understanding. Throughout my career in the fire safety industry, I have encountered numerous instances where poor customer-centric approaches have diminished the effectiveness of a company’s services.
Each time I have witnessed these issues, they are typically caused by one or more of the following factors:
Lack of Communication: Effective communication is fundamental to addressing client concerns and ensuring they understand the reasons behind recommended fire safety measures. Clients can feel confused or neglected without clear and transparent communication, which undermines trust and satisfaction.
Lack of Understanding: Service providers sometimes fail to empathise with clients’ perspectives or grasp their specific needs. This can lead to a disconnect where clients feel their concerns are not adequately acknowledged or addressed.
Focus on Conformity Over Client Needs: Rigid adherence to regulations without considering each client’s
unique circumstances can result in solutions that do not effectively meet their needs. Each client has distinct challenges and requirements that should be taken into account to ensure optimal fire safety outcomes.
Far too often, these issues result in clients feeling alienated and frustrated, which can ultimately deter them from using the company’s services in the future. What may appear as an unwillingness to address client concerns is often a reflection of the company’s inability to empathise with the client’s perspective.
Whether it’s a residential homeowner seeking clarification on specific fire safety measures or a business owner navigating new regulatory requirements, some service providers either dismiss concerns outright or inundate clients with extract upon extract of fire safety regulation.
It’s essential to recognise that adequate fire safety solutions should be tailored to meet each client’s individual needs while ensuring compliance with regulations. Here are several approaches that can help achieve this:
Personalised Consultations: Engage clients in personalised consultations to understand their unique requirements and concerns. This demonstrates a commitment to their specific needs
and fosters a collaborative approach to fire safety planning.
Clear and Concise Communication: Explain the rationale behind recommended fire safety measures clearly to clients. Use accessible language and visuals to enhance understanding and ensure clients feel informed and empowered.
Flexible Solutions: Offer flexible solutions that can be adapted to accommodate the evolving needs of clients. This may involve considering alternative approaches or technologies that better align with the client’s operational requirements and budget constraints.
Ongoing Support and Education: Provide ongoing support and education to clients beyond the initial installation or consultation. This includes regular updates on regulatory changes, maintenance tips and additional resources to promote continuous improvement in fire safety practices.
By adopting these customer-centric approaches, fire safety companies can enhance client satisfaction and build long-term relationships based on trust, collaboration and mutual respect. www.ifsm.org.uk
LEADING THE WAY
INSIGHT, INNOVATION, INFLUENCE
The epicentre of global innovation in security, safety and fire protection SHOWCASED
Intersec Dubai takes centre stage in 2025
Explore cuttingedge technologies and solutions shaping the future
A GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR INNOVATION
Intersec 2025, scheduled to take place from 14-16 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is poised to be a pivotal event for the global fire industry. This exciting exhibition and conference brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including fire professionals, government officials, industry experts and technology providers
Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Intersec’s silver jubilee event last year hosted 47,506 trade buyers, convening from 141 countries.
As the leading global platform for the security, safety and fire protection industry, Intersec has been a cornerstone event in the Middle East for over two decades. Since its inception, Intersec has evolved into a premier showcase for cutting-edge technologies, innovative solutions and industry best practices. Attendees have the opportunity to network, collaborate and explore the latest trends shaping the fire sector landscape.
A comprehensive overview of the fire detection and protection landscape
Intersec 2025 offers a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in fire detection and protection technology and solutions. From traditional fire alarm systems to cutting-edge AI-powered tools, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of innovative fire detection and alarm systems, including early warning systems and intelligent sensors.
The exhibition will also feature a wide range of firefighting equipment and
apparatus, from fire trucks and hoses to specialised chemicals and agents. Additionally, industry experts will be on hand to discuss the latest trends in fire safety engineering, consulting, training and emergency response. Attendees can learn about fire-resistant materials, fire doors, emergency lighting and other essential fire safety products and services.
Futuristic technologies are revolutionising the sector, and Intersec aims to be ahead of the curve in showcasing them. Visitors to the show will be immersed into tomorrow’s world, with new technology to explore and consider how it could enhance their roles.
Fire & safety solutions
Intersec 2025 offers a comprehensive showcase of fire safety and security solutions. Visitors can witness the latest advancements in fire detection and suppression systems, ensuring rapid response and minimising damage. The exhibition will also feature innovative emergency response and evacuation systems designed to protect lives and property. Additionally, attendees can explore the latest trends in building security, including access control, video surveillance and perimeter security, to safeguard critical infrastructure and assets.
Networking opportunities
Intersec is renowned for its unparalleled networking opportunities and the Dubai show this year promises more of the same. Attendees can connect with a diverse range of industry professionals, including experts working within the industry, government officials, technology providers and end-users. Engaging in thought-provoking discussions, sharing insights and exploring potential partnerships can lead to valuable collaborations and business opportunities. The event’s strategic networking sessions, dedicated lounges and social events provide ample opportunities to forge new relationships and strengthen existing ones. By attending Intersec 2025, you can position yourself at the forefront of the industry and build a strong professional network.
Intersec awards
The Intersec Awards is an annual event recognising excellence and innovation in
the security and fire industry. The awards celebrate outstanding achievements in various categories, including solutions, projects and companies.
This year, over 1,400 entries were received across the 15 categories, including three new categories for 2025: Excellence in Testing, Evaluation and Certification Award; Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of the Year; and Consulting Leadership in Fire Safety, Security and Cybersecurity Award. Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, show organisers, said: “The Intersec Awards 2025 features a broad range of categories, truly reflecting the diversity and scope of the industry. This year, we are offering even more opportunities for businesses to showcase their innovative services and solutions across multiple sectors, including cutting-edge advancements in cybersecurity, fire protection and perimeter security. The awards highlight the outstanding contributions and
Why Attend Intersec 2025?
• Stay Updated: Be the first to know about the latest trends and innovations in the fire sector.
• Source Innovative Solutions: Discover cutting-edge products and services to enhance your operations.
• Network with Industry Leaders: Connect with key decision-makers and build valuable relationships.
• Gain Industry Insights: Attend insightful conferences and workshops to learn from industry experts.
• Experience Immersive Demonstrations: See the latest technologies in action and learn how they can benefit your organisation.
intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com
achievements that drive the security, safety and fire protection landscape forward.”
The 2025 finalists represent the best and brightest in the industry, game-changers who are setting new benchmarks and innovating like never before. The finalists have all showcased their commitment to advancing fire and safety standards, with the winners being unveiled on the 15 January during the Intersec 2025 Awards Gala Dinner. By attending Intersec 2025, fire sector professionals can gain valuable insights and connect with leading industry experts to enhance fire safety practices and protect lives and property. Register now for Intersec 2025 and experience the cutting-edge innovations that will shape the industry for years to come.
Trusted by UK Fire & Rescue Services –Now in the Middle East
At Emergency One, we’ve been the go-to provider for fire and rescue vehicles in the UK. In the last three years alone, we’re proud to have supplied appliances to over 70% of UK fire and rescue services. Now, we’re bringing our expertise to the Middle East, offering tailored solutions to meet the unique demands of the region. We are already supplying and servicing vehicles across the UAE, KSA, and the wider GCC region.
Designed for Tough Conditions
Whether it’s navigating rough desert terrain, responding in extreme temperatures, or operating in industrial environments, our vehicles are built to perform. We offer a wide product range, including Rapid Intervention Vehicles, 4x4 pumping appliances, and Technical Rescue Vehicles, all available on various chassis types. From airport appliances to industrial vehicles, we’ve got options to suit any challenge.
One standout is the E1 Scorpion with HRET (High Reach Extendable Turret) — a game-changer for tackling fires in hard-to-reach places. With its innovative design and versatile capabilities, it is an ideal solution for industrial and urban
firefighting. The HRET is available in 16m or 20m options, featuring 360-degree rotation for unparalleled manoeuvrability.
Solutions That Work for You
We know every service is different. That’s why we work closely with our clients to design and deliver vehicles that fit their exact needs. Need a bespoke pumping appliance or a vehicle designed with off road applications? Our team has the experience to make it happen.
Our appliances aren’t just tough — they’re smart, too. With advanced features like our cutting-edge e1Fleet telemetry, eCabControl, and ePumpControl systems, along with bespoke stowage configurations and innovative firefighting technologies, our vehicles are designed to be simple, safe, and tailored to meet your unique needs.
A Focus on Partnership
For us, it’s about more than just vehicles. We’re here to build lasting relationships. Whether it’s by tailoring solutions to your challenges, providing local support, or working with you to plan for the future, we’re committed to being a partner you can rely on.
See You at Intersec Dubai
We’re excited to bring our expertise to Intersec Dubai stand 4-H29 and discuss how we can support emergency services across the Middle East. Our team will be there to chat about the challenges you face, explore solutions, and show how our vehicles are designed with you in mind.
Let’s Talk
Ready to learn more? Reach out to us today or meet us at Intersec Dubai. Together, we’ll create vehicles that help you save lives and protect your communities — no matter where the call takes you.
*Emergency One has supplied or is currently supplying vehicles to 74% of the UK Fire and Rescue Services between 2022 and 2024.
INTERSEC CONFERENCE SESSIONS
Fire sector professionals focused on gaining the professional edge would do well to check out the numerous sessions happening at the Intersec Conferences. Every session gives you the chance to earn CPD credits as well as enhance your skills and knowledge in a welcoming, professional manner.
SAFETY & HEALTH CONFERENCE
Intersec is renowned for hosting the world’s foremost experts on their stages, and the 2025 event is no different, with thought leaders and experts drawn from across the globe and all areas of specialism.
Each conference has a different focus, but each will help showcase cutting-edge
The goal of the Intersec Safety & Health Conference is to create environments where individuals thrive, organisations prosper and safety becomes a shared priority. Over the course of two days this conference will take a deep dive into the latest trends, innovative solutions to the most pressing challenges and best practices across the globe to empower organisations to champion workplace safety and wellbeing.
Through a packed agenda of through-provoking panels, inspirational keynotes and visionary best practice guidance, the Safety & Health Conference will bridge the gap between theory and practice. By attending you can be a part of a community that is committed to shaping the future of occupational safety and health excellence.
Day one – 14 January – is hosted by IOSH, while day two – 15 January – is hosted by NEBOSH. Key highlights of the Conference include a closer look at the future of safety and health on a national level; innovative approaches to reinforce workplace HSE culture; the three Cs of safety: consultation, communication and collaboration; and road safety as a sustainability issue.
The thought leaders taking to the stage over the two days include Ahmed Elidrisy, Chief Sustainability & HSE Officer, Qatar Freezones Authority; Ahmed Al-Mamari, Operational Safety Expert, Oman Electrical Transmission Company; NEBOSH CEO, Andy Shenstone; and Kelly Nicoll, President, Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).
solutions, technologies, products and strategies as well as giving attendees the opportunity to network, build beneficial relationships and stay ahead of the curve.
For fire sector professionals the following conferences should be on your list to check out:
DATES: 14-15 JANUARY 2025 VENUE: HALL 7, DWTC
FIRE & RESCUE CONFERENCE
Global leaders in fire and emergency services will come together for this three day event which has already cemented its position as the pivotal annual gathering for the sector. The convergence of dialogues that encompass challenges, prospects, benchmarks, regulations and technological innovations perfectly resonates with the UAE’s unique market dynamics.
The Fire & Rescue Conference offers a well structured avenue for those in the industry to learn, build long-lasting connections and collaborate in an interactive manner. As a result attendees are able to effectively capitalise on the evolving trends to ensure they play their part in advancing fire protection and safety.
The first two days of the conference are devoted to informative keynote addresses, presentations, case studies and panels. Being explored through presentations will be Abu Dhabi guidelines to determine safety requirements in existing buildings; creating champions in emergencies; the role of automated emergency response systems in the oil and gas industry; and the fire hazards of a smart city.
Panel discussions include an insight into emergency management and business continuity programmes and the impact of climate change on fire behaviour. There will also be an onstage conversation on day one covering fire prevention regulations in UAE buildings.
For any Intersec attendee interested in the broader themes of security there are also conferences for:
SECURITY LEADERS’ SUMMIT
DATES: 14-15 JANUARY 2025
VENUE: TRADE CENTRE ARENA, DWTC
The Intersec Security Leaders’ Summit is a high-level forum designed for C-suite executives, government officials and security decision-makers. It offers a unique platform to network with peers, gain insights from industry experts, and explore the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of security.
INTERSEC POLICING CONFERENCE
DATES: 15-16 JANUARY 2025
VENUE: AL MULTAQA BALLROOM, DWTC
New for 2025 is the Intersec Policing Conference, a unique event recognising the need to showcase policing best practice and new approaches to police
DATES: 14-16 JANUARY 2025
VENUE: HALL 2, DWTC
A case study presentation – also on day one – will take a closer examination of international capability building and collaboration, for Ghana, the UK and the UAE.
The conference will fill the room with the world’s leading experts, all willing to share their vast knowledge, honed through decades of experience. They include: Abdullah Faza, Director of Fire & Life Safety – ME, AESG; Adam Batz, Manager Global Consulting, Fike Corporation; Dana Kamal, MENA Director, The National Fire Protection Association, NFPA; and Lt. Col. Dr Essa Ahmed Al Mutawa, Chief AI Officer, Head of Monitoring & Inspection, Directorate General, Dubai Civil Defence.
work. The inaugural event will be opened by a representative from the Ministry of Interior, UAE, and will include leadership talks on diverse topics like redefining digital policing; the future of road safety; transformation in law enforcement; as well as a UK perspective of technologyenabled law enforcement.
CISO BUSINESS BRIEFING
DATE: 14 JAN 2025
VENUE: SHARJAH D MEETING ROOM, DWTC
The region’s top Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and security heads will gather for this pivotal element of Intersec. Over 50,000 people are expected to attend, helping to deliver a unique platform where they can connect with peers, build new working relationships and broaden their knowledge.
THE SIRA FORUM
DATE: 16 JAN 2025
VENUE: TRADE CENTRE ARENA, DWTC
Delivering a global commercial security community for exchanging ideas, sharing knowledge and collaboration, the SIRA
Forum will return once again to Intersec. Taking place over the course of a day, the Forum will be serving up presentations promoting practical implementations and Q&A sessions with audience participation.
THE THOUGHT LEADERSHIP PAVILION
DATE: 14-16 JAN 2025
VENUE: SHEIKH SAEED HALL 2, DWTC
At the Thought Leadership Pavilion, activated by Access Control Brief, global experts will convene for lively discussions, boosted by networking opportunities. The busy sessions will cover a huge range of topics including: mobile access solutions for the Middle East, with Carsten Hoersch, MD, ELATEC Middle East and Sven Jochmann, COO, AUTEC; Reimagining digital business: mobile access as the key to transformation from Sanjit Bardhan, VP and Head of Mobile at HID Global. Plus a use case discussion on critical infrastructure, moderated by Lee Odess, CEO at The Access Control Collective.
Trusted Life-Safety & Emergency Solutions
Industry-Tailored Protection, Decades of Expertise
From high-rise buildings to critical infrastructure, Potter Global Technologies delivers adaptable life-safety and emergency communication solutions for today’s most demanding environments. Choose Potter Global Technologies for a partnership that understands.
BRISTOL FIRE ENGINEERING
MSA SAFETY FIREPRO
MSA Safety will feature its Connected Firefighter Platform, GALLET Head Protection, ALTAIR io 4 Connected Gas Detector and Industrial Head Protection solutions at Intersec 2025. The Connected Firefighter Platform, powered by MSA’s FireGrid software, includes the M1 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA); the MSA HUB, a wireless, cloudconnected gateway for on-scene and remote monitoring; and its Entry Control Board (ECB). The featured firefighter head protection solution is the GALLET® F2XR rescue helmet that is designed to offer firefighters versatile options for different emergency scenarios. For portable detection, the ALTAIR io 4 Connected Gas Detector features a direct-to-cloud design to deliver real-time visibility to help enhance worker safety. Additionally, MSA will feature its full-range of industrial head protection solutions, including the V-Gard C1™ Hard Hat, that can help to alleviate heat stress for workers in industries where heat stress from sun exposure is a concern. ae.msasafety.com
Bristol Fire Engineering stands out as a trusted firefighting company in the UAE. Specialising in cutting-edge fire safety solutions, it offers top-quality fire protection systems and firefighting equipment. Renowned as one of the leading manufacturers and fire safety companies in UAE and globally, it prioritises the utmost safety and protection for its clients. With its expertise and innovative solutions, you can trust the company to safeguard lives and properties effectively. Bristol Fire Engineering; a name synonymous with reliable and comprehensive fire safety solutions. bristol-fire.com
FirePro designs, manufactures and distributes industry-leading, environmentally friendly aerosol fire suppression systems. The core of its technology is its patented condensed aerosol generating solid chemical compound (FPC) consisting of eco-friendly, naturally occurring potassium salts.
The modular, pre-engineered FirePro systems can be installed in a wide range of applications, from small enclosed spaces to large commercial and industrial facilities. The worldwide network of FirePro distributors serves more than 110 countries and currently protects lives and key assets throughout industrial and other sectors. FirePro suppression systems are endorsed by a long list of European, American and International Certificates, Listings, Approvals including UL, BSI, LPCB, KIWA, VDS ACTIVFIRE, KFI, BV, ABS, MCA.
FirePro’s vision is to make the world safer by the use of its environmentally sustainable and highly effective fire suppression technology. firepro.com
With over 60 years of CPVC expertise, BlazeMaster® Fire Protection Systems stands out as a global leader in fire sprinkler systems. BlazeMaster CPVC, a product of Lubrizol (a Berkshire Hathaway company), represents excellence in fire safety technology. Accredited by FM UL and LPCB, its CPVC surpasses industry standards, ensuring optimal performance and sustainability. Embraced by a network of industry professionals for its unmatched quality, BlazeMaster CPVC streamlines installation processes, significantly reducing project timelines. Join them to learn firsthand how BlazeMaster CPVC continues to set the standard in fire safety, backed by Lubrizol’s unwavering commitment to innovation and reliability. blazemaster.com
BRANDSCHUTZTECHNIK MÜLLER GMBH
Safety in perfection:
Brandschutztechnik Müller GmbH Founded in 1980, Brandschutztechnik Müller GmbH is one of the world’s leading fire protection companies. With three locations and 75 qualified employees, the company produces precise equipment for testing services and supplies fire brigades worldwide. Müller’s innovative solutions ensure the highest safety standards, from training devices for door opening to powerful highpressure extinguishers.
Explore its virtual showroom to see the latest products from anywhere, or visit them at upcoming international trade fairs. Experience its state-of-the-art digital testing technology first-hand at the next event in Dubai.
Trust Brandschutztechnik Müller GmbH when it comes to reliable solutions for global fire protection. muellergermany.com
FOMTEC
HYTRANS
Hytrans is THE global market leader in mobile water transport systems used for disaster relief. For over 35 years Hytrans has been developing these systems with hydraulically driven submersible pumps. Its systems deploy within minutes and pump high volumes of water over long distances and height differences under high pressure. With capacities up to 45.000 lpm at 12 bar, it enables fire brigades, civil defense, (petro-) chemical and nuclear industries all over the world to extinguish large fires effectively, reduce the impact of floods or supply cooling water.
With more than 1300 systems installed in over 60 countries, Hytrans is proud to support the most demanding emergency response teams, together with their worldwide network of distributors. hytrans.com
Dafo Fomtec AB is a Swedish, privately owned manufacturer of firefighting foam. It can provide the right foam for your existing facility or combine foam and hardware. Its philosophy is that any foam system must consist of components tested and approved for its intended use as a part of a system proven to work in harmony.
The company supplies products for aviation, industry, marine, fire brigades, oil & gas, etc. Fomtec offers a wide range of synthetic-based and protein-based fluorine-free foam concentrates.
Visit Fomtec together with ESS and FFS at Intersec Dubai to get the opportunity to discuss fire safety solutions with its competent team. fomtec.com
GERMAN PAVILION 2-D21
Optimised sprinkler storage tanks
With over 40 years of experience, Balmoral Tanks specialises in designing, manufacturing and installing fire sprinkler tanks globally. Our state‐of‐the‐art facilities, coupled with unrivalled expertise and exceptional customer service, supports all water storage projects. For these reasons, engineers, investors, designers and contractors choose the Balmoral ‘firetanQ’ brand for their projects.
CARRINGTON TEXTILES
INIM ELECTRONICS
Inim is an italian brand that designs, produces and markets a comprehensive range of Fire & Safety, Security & Comfort systems for residential, commercial and institutional buildings.
Its high-performance product line-up delivers advanced technology, extreme flexibility and, at the same time, ease of use. This winning combination presents important advantages for installers and end users alike.
Inim is the Italian company. From design to production, from testing to marketing, every Inim product is made in Italy. Inim is present in Italy and abroad through authorised distributors.
Inim’s desire is to create products for your total protection. inim.it
Carrington Textiles is a global workwear textile manufacturer with 130 years of expertise, exporting to over 80 countries and producing 130 million metres of fabric annually from its factories in Pakistan, Portugal and the UK. Its extensive experience in the Middle East includes developing flame retardant fabrics tailored to local workplace demands and certified to meet regional
PLUMIS
Discover Automist the world’s only fire suppression system for the home that is able to intelligently detect fires and target them directly at their source fast, using significantly less water than conventional sprinklers to minimise damage. Certified to UL2167, the system is redefining home safety with groundbreaking technology which provides the ultimate protection against fires to save lives and safeguard property.
Automist has installations across the globe and is developed and manufactured
ADVANCED
Join Advanced at Intersec Dubai 2025 (Stand F22, Hall 4) to explore its latest
standards. Known for its innovation, Carrington Textiles specialise in creating high-performance textiles for challenging environments, from light to heavy industry. Its latest breakthrough is a stretch flame-retardant fabric, showcasing a commitment to meeting stringent performance requirements in diverse sectors worldwide.
carrington.co.uk
fire safety innovations. The company will be showcasing the Axis AX and Axis EN fire systems, designed to meet UL and EN standards, offering scalable and reliable solutions for high-rise and large-scale projects. Visitors can also learn about the next-generation MxPro 5, the powerful multi-protocol panel offering enhanced performance and sustainability. From voice evacuation and smoke control to robust false alarm management, discover how Advanced’s systems provide peace of mind and protect lives across diverse applications. advancedco.com
RELYON FIRE ACADEMY
RelyOn Fire Academy is a global leader in fire safety & emergency response training, empowering fire brigades, emergency responders and high-risk industries with top-tier education and consultancy. With training centres worldwide, the academy provides realistic incident simulations that prepare professionals for critical situations. Its modular courses cover industrial firefighting, civil defense, technical rescue and crisis management, ensuring comprehensive preparedness. Accredited by JOIFF and NIPV – RelyOn adheres to the highest standards and best practices.
Beyond training, it offers consultancy services for emergency response planning and crisis management. RelyOn Fire Academy exemplifies safety excellence, fostering resilient, ready teams for any challenge. fire.relyonnutec.com
FIREDOS
As the firefighting industry moves towards sustainable solutions, the transition from AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) to SFFF (synthetic fluorine-free foam) presents both challenges and opportunities. FireDos, a global leader in proportioning technology, is at the forefront of enabling this critical shift.
Its innovative, foam-compatible proportioning systems are designed to seamlessly adapt to various foam types, including the latest SFFF formulations. With precision engineering, FireDos ensures accurate proportioning, reducing waste and environmental impact while maintaining firefighting effectiveness.
The shift to SFFF requires robust, reliable solutions that ensure compliance without compromising safety or performance. FireDos systems are tested extensively for compatibility, delivering optimal results in diverse applications, from industrial sites to municipal firefighting.
With FireDos, the foam transition becomes an opportunity for enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and safety— without compromise. firedos.com
Emergency One has been the go-to provider for fire and rescue vehicles in the UK. In the last three years alone, it is proud to have supplied appliances to over 70% of UK fire and rescue services. Now, Emergency One is bringing its expertise to the Middle East, offering tailored solutions to meet the unique demands of the region. It is already supplying and servicing vehicles across the UAE, KSA and the wider GCC region.
The company is excited to attend Intersec Dubai stand 4-H29 and discuss how it can support emergency services across the Middle East. The team will be there to chat about the challenges you face, explore solutions and show how its vehicles are designed with you in mind. e1group.co.uk
TLX Fire & Security is a pioneer in the design and production of actuation solutions and integrated technologies for the global fire suppression market. All TLX actuators and valves for fire suppression include an integrated supervisory feature to meet regulatory standards for supervision. They are also resettable after activation and can be configured to fit your system. Additionally, TLX Fire & Security’s continuous weight monitoring solutions automatically provide an accurate weight of the extinguishing agent in your cylinders. Stop by its booth to speak with a member of the team about your system’s requirements. tlxfire.com
POTTER GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES
Join Potter Global Technologies, a trusted global leader in life-safety solutions, at Intersec, Dubai. With decades of expertise, Potter Global Technologies provides trusted fire safety and emergency communication systems tailored to safeguard high-rise buildings, critical infrastructure, and complex industrial facilities. At Intersec 2025 you can explore the innovative products designed to meet the most stringent international standards, ensuring reliability when it matters most.
HOCHIKI
There is also the opportunity for you to connect with the experts to learn how Potter Global Technologies can enhance your safety strategy with adaptable, future-ready solutions.
Visit Potter Global Technologies at Stand 3-H20 to see how its established legacy in fire safety drives innovation. Together with its customers, Potter Global Technologies is building on years of expertise to create safer environments for tomorrow.
potterglobaltech.com
Hochiki is a leading provider of innovative, Japanese-designed life safety solutions, specialising in the design, manufacturing and distribution of state-of-the-art fire detection and emergency lighting systems. With a rich heritage spanning over 100 years, Hochiki has established itself as a trusted name in the fire safety industry across the globe.
Its regional office, located in Dubai, UAE, provides advanced fire detection and emergency lighting systems across the Middle Eastern region, serving diverse sectors including commercial, industrial, healthcare, education and transportation. The Dubai team also provide customer product training and on-site consultation for a range of project types, across the region.
With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, Hochiki works closely with clients to understand their unique requirements and develop tailored solutions that ensure optimal fire safety for their premises.
Visit Hochki at Intersec 2025, Hall 4, Stand B20. The team will be displaying a selection of UL, FM and EN approved equipment, including the latest Emergency Lighting System, FIREscape Nepto. hochiki.ae STAND 4-B20
OLYMPIA ELECTRONICS
Olympia Electronics S.A., a Greek organisation and one of the top 10 European largest safety electronics manufacturers with many distinctions and participations in international exhibitions, will participate once again in the international exhibition Intersec 2025, which will take place from 14-16 January 2025 in Dubai. Intersec, the leading and most important global exhibition of security and emergency services returns with a resounding impact and the largest and most comprehensive world-class conference programme ever experienced.
Olympia Electronics S.A. will be represented by the CEO – Mr Dimitrios Lakasas; International Sales Director – Mr Charalampos Karakidis; Export Manager – Mr Pantelis Andar and the Assistant Export Manager – Mr Nikolaos Andar – Mavridis. They will introduce you to the new innovative products of the rich range, such as the addressable emergency lighting, fire detection and wireless emergency lighting system with remote monitoring solutions, and the company’s new product solutions for safety electronics industry.
Olympia Electronics S.A.’s presence at Intersec 2025 will highlight its leading role in the safety industry, and successfully continues its extroversion strategy. olympia-electronics.com
KOMTES
The Spanish company is expanding its presence in key markets with innovation and strategic growth, launching innovative fire protection products, and preparing for its participation in Intersec Dubai.
Komtes Group, a global leader in fire protection systems, is setting new milestones with record participation in international trade fairs and expanding into key markets. The company is gearing up for Intersec Dubai, the industry’s largest trade fair, to showcase its latest innovations.
With new centres in Türkiye, Chile, China and Saudi Arabia, Komtes strengthens its global reach and develops solutions for sectors like petrochemicals and commercial spaces. Recent launches include RG Systems’ water mist noozles and Siex’s
EDGE TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS
EML, Hungary, proudly introduces UL-listed, wirelessly monitored emergency and exit lights to the MENA region, in partnership with EDGE Technical Solutions, Dubai. Approved by UAE Civil Defense, this innovative wireless RF mesh technology minimises cabling, simplifying installation and conduiting. A single Wireless Central Monitoring Panel can oversee up to 99 luminaires and supports panel-to-panel networking. Manufactured in Hungary and with UL listing, the system guarantees exceptional reliability and efficiency, meeting the highest safety standards. EML introduces this solution along with existing Wired Central Monitoring and AC-DC Central Battery
Mobile draining systems and water transport over
Mobile draining systems and water transport over extremely long distances and long deployment times. extremely long distances and long deployment times.
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VIKING
Come to see Viking at Intersec Dubai, Booth Hall 2 B-20! Its team of fire protection experts from Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa will be available to provide comprehensive insights into their wide range of solutions.
Discover the company’s latest innovation, the new Viking HLX, the next generation of Halocarbon Extinguishing system, designed to maximise safety and efficiency for sensitive environments. Additionally, Viking will be showcasing its
PROFOAM
brand new EN-3 nozzle for the EconAqua water mist line and some technologies in Water & Deluge, Foam, and Detection & Control systems.At Intersec 2025 you will have the opportunity to discuss your specific needs with the Viking specialists and experts to find the ideal solution tailored to your requirements.
For updates and more information, follow Viking on LinkedIn (@viking EMEA) or visit their website at viking-emea.com
PROFOAM is specialised in production of fire-fighting foam concentrates. Its full range of superior quality and environment friendly foams not only include Fluorine Free Foams (F3), but also C6 fluorinated foams it continues to produce such as FP, AFFF, FFFP, AR-AFFF, AR-FFFP, etc.
Profoam F3 foams are certified to the latest revision of European Norms EN1568, as well as to French official
Petroleum and Chemical Industries Safety Committee ‘GESIP’.
Quality products, know-how and reliability distinguish PROFOAM as the universal leader of the foam manufacturers, giving the professional end users the quality assurance, they need where matters of safety are paramount.
profoam.fr
Mavili was established in 1987 in İstanbul for the production of fire and gas detection systems. Today, it has two manufacturing facilities. The Maxlogic and Mavigard brands are exported to more than 70 countries. The products are certified by international accredited organisations such as LPCB.
Mavili carries out its meticulous projecting works for different types of spaces, from shopping centres to airports, from cargo ships to passenger ships, from large hotel chains to complex living spaces, hospitals, universities, and risky structures such as industrial facilities.
Thanks to the innovative and userfriendly solutions Mavili has developed for integration with smart building technologies it is the solution partner of many leading brands in the fields of CCTV, IP Camera, VMS/PSIM, Access Control, BMS. mavili.com.tr/en
FIREMIKS
Since Firemiks was founded in Sweden 1979, its focus has been on developing, manufacturing and distributing its proprietary water-driven volumetric pump proportioners globally. Firemiks offers custom solutions tailored to the unique needs of each client’s project while also delivering standardised models that meet rigorous international certifications, such as FM Approvals.
At stand 6-A30 (Solas Fire) the company is exhibiting its FM-approved FIREMIKS “Variable Viscosity Pump Proportioner” which provides accurate dosing with concentrates ranging from 1 cP up to 6422 cP at a shear rate of 5 1/s, incl. SFFF concentrates. firemiks.com
EVERLUX
Everlux will display its products and solutions at Intersec Dubai 2025!
With over 30 years of expertise, Everlux specialises in the design, development, manufacturing and marketing of highquality photoluminescent safety products.
The company is also dedicated to studying and developing technologies for the manufacture of photoluminescent (phosphorescent) products and their applications in the field of safety.
Everlux’s aim is to manufacture highquality safety signage as well as offer the highest levels of customer service and all the Intersec visitors can experience that, from the 14th to the 16th of January.
The Everlux brand-new and attractive stand – 4-H12 – and its dedicated team will be ready to deliver a unique and memorable experience to every visitor! everlux.eu
Weber Rescue Systems, a pioneer in safety and emergency response, is showcasing its cutting-edge, efficient equipment and digital solutions. With over 41 years of expertise in the field, it is committed to developing innovative and powerful rescue tools. Its motto is: “Let’s create future.”
Weber’s mission is to provide value-added solutions and services to its partners and fellow rescuers. Key highlights include the Smart Force Range M18-powered rescue tools, which offer a range of advanced digital features, and the innovative RSC cutter series, designed to effortlessly cut through even the toughest materials. weber-rescue.com/en/
FREE EXPOADVANTAGE™ PASS
INCLUDES ACCESS TO THE LEARNING ANNEX
ATTEND FREE SESSIONS ON THE LATEST ISSUES FACING FIREFIGHTERS
ISSUES FACING FIREFIGHTERS
NFPA® is offering FREE education sessions that address the new and complex challenges that firefighters encounter daily. Sessions are designed for mid-level firefighters and first responders including lieutenants and captains with takeaways that can be implemented immediately in a participant’s professional life.
NFPA® is offering FREE education sessions that address the new and complex challenges that firefighters encounter daily. Sessions are designed for mid-level firefighters and first responders including lieutenants and captains with takeaways that can be implemented immediately in a participant’s professional life.
Reserve your ExpoAdvantage Pass at nfpa.org/conference2025.
Reserve your ExpoAdvantage Pass at nfpa.org/conference2025.
Sessions will be held in the Learning Annex in the Latest Issues Facing Firefighters (LIFF) Theater. The ExpoAdvantage Pass gives you access to all of these activities:
Sessions will be held in the Learning Annex in the Latest Issues Facing Firefighters (LIFF) Theater. The ExpoAdvantage Pass gives you access to all of these activities:
• Education sessions in the LIFF Theater
• Education sessions in the LIFF Theater
• Presentations in the Facility Manager Theater
• Presentations in the Facility Manager Theater
• Sessions in the NFPA Products and Solutions Theater
• Sessions in the NFPA Products and Solutions Theater
• Special sessions in the Exhibitor Presentations Theater
• Special sessions in the Exhibitor Presentations Theater
