A second helmet for non-structural operations: an enduring idea for changing times
A previously published article in this journal1 argued the importance of considering adoption of lighter-weight, more comfortable helmets, more appropriate for extended duration wildland firefighting operations. Whilst the extremely wet weather we…
Fireside chat – ensuring technical robustness in smoke management components and systems for enhanced fire safety
In this edition of Fireside Chat, ESL’s Mrinaal, the Regional Sales Manager, and Abhishek Ojha, the Technical Auditor, engage in a dialogue and pivotal discussion around certification concerning the intricacies of Smoke Management Systems (SMS) in alignment with the UAE…
Exploring the use of insulation materials in building and their fire-resistant properties
In building construction, selecting insulation materials ensures energy efficiency and safety. The chemical composition of these materials significantly influences their fire-resistant characteristics, ultimately contributing to the overall integrity of a structure. This article explores the fascinating interplay between the chemical…
Accreditation decoded: safeguarding tomorrow’s fire and life safety
In a world where safety is paramount, the importance of accreditation cannot be overstated, especially regarding fire and life safety products. Accreditation is a crucial process to validate the reliability and competence of organisations involved in testing and certification. This…
Safety through sound: public address and voice evacuation systems
Safety and effective communication in public spaces cannot be overstated in today’s fast-paced world. public address (PA) and voice evacuation systems stand at the forefront of ensuring the well-being of individuals in diverse environments. This comprehensive guide aims to delve…
Surviving the fire service: a contrast of excellence and mediocrity
The distinction between excellence and mediocrity is as crucial as the survival of the fittest in the wild. This article looks at the paradoxical treatment of personnel within the fire service, drawing parallels with the ruthless nature of the jungle…
How to produce a reliable lithium-ion battery fire for optical flame detector performance assessment
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are widely used in a range of applications, from portable handheld devices, electrical bikes, scooters and vehicles, through to large-scale energy storage systems. Compared to lead acid batteries, the energy density of Li-ion batteries is close to…
Climate ready
As storms, wildfires and other calamities continue to escalate across the globe, big-city fire chiefs offer a road map for how departments should prepare for the worst effects of climate change. Across the world, climate change is leading to weather-driven…
Advancing safety standards
Brian Donovan and Maria Marks of Siemens answer questions on the future of cloud-connected fire alarm systems. What are cloud-connected fire alarms? A cloud-connected fire alarm system is one that utilises a method of communication from a fire alarm control…
Properties of high-viscosity foam agents and their influence on proportioning systems
The success in firefighting depends on various factors. Most important is the right choice of foam agent. In the past AFFF and AFFF-AR foam agents were most widely used. They had in common that they used fluorine as one of…
Hydrogen fire detection – broom test or flame detector?
ydrogen has the potential to help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels; however, its use is not without risk, particularly from a fire-detection perspective. In normal conditions people cannot, see, smell, or taste hydrogen gas leaks. Hydrogen, however, is very…
After the Fires: supporting wellbeing of emergency services personnel in the aftermath of major disasters
Australia’s 2019–20 Black Summer bushfires, which occurred among one of the most widespread, persistent and destructive fire seasons ever, were just one example of an increasing number of global disaster events that are changing the nature of emergency services work.…
Insights and analysis: mapping the bushfire outlook with TracPlus
As Australia braces itself for the Spring 2023 season, the stage seems set for a period of heightened vigilance and preparedness in terms of bushfire outlook. The shift in Australia’s climatic influences since last spring has brought the nation under…
New Directions
Larger and more complex buildings can result in more complicated means of egress in an emergency. To address the problem, new forms of dynamic exit signage – technology that holds great promise for life safety practitioners of the future –…
Ensuring comprehensive fire safety in modern buildings: A Critical analysis
The importance of fire safety in buildings cannot be overstated in the modern architectural landscape. Building fires present numerous challenges, including diverse ignition sources, varied fire-spread mechanisms, and complex evacuation and rescue operations. This article delves into the critical aspects…
Importance of fire detection and alarm system maintenance
Fire alarm systems are the most crucial system that every building should have, and these systems stand vigilant to protect our lives and properties from destruction by fire. Fire alarm systems are used to provide early warnings to the occupants…
Smoke control ducts between regulations and application
While we undertook to build a fireproof room with all non-combustible, fire-resistive and limited or slightly combustible materials, we unintentionally created an unprotected opening through the wall of this room; the question here is whether this compartment is still a…
The case for two staircases in high-rise buildings
When a building is deemed to be tall or high rise, it represents some unique challenges for all fire-safety stakeholders involved in its design, construction, occupation and firefighting. Policy makers must grapple with risk at all stages of the development.…
Sustainable practices in fire testing laboratories: forging a path to environmental responsibility
Fire testing laboratories ensure the safety and reliability of various products and materials exposed to fire. While their focus is on evaluating fire resistance and performance, the importance of sustainability should not be overlooked. As the world is battling climate…
Rethinking turnout gear for the future
Tailoring turnout gear to risk: evolving firefighter safety In a recent podcast discussing firefighter turnout gear, a term used that particularly resonated with me was ‘multi-mission garments’. As an Industrial Firefighter with over four decades in the field, I have…