As part of the Fire Buyer Live Series, this panel brings together leading figures from the International Water Mist Association (IWMA) to explore the evolving role of water mist technology in modern fire protection. Moderated by Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor of International Fire Buyer, the discussion traverses the core strengths of water mist suppression, its environmental benefits, and its increasing relevance in both heritage conservation and emerging fire risk categories, such as lithium-ion battery storage.
The session opens with foundational perspectives on how water mist differentiates itself from conventional sprinkler systems—highlighting technical nuances and misunderstood advantages. The panel then delves into the technology’s alignment with sustainability and ESG targets, as well as current trends in demand from sectors like data centres and commercial real estate.
A spotlight is also placed on one of the most prominent heritage projects to date: the integration of water mist systems within the Notre Dame Cathedral. This case study serves as a springboard for discussion around growing adoption in culturally sensitive environments.
As the dialogue progresses, the panellists examine how the industry is responding to complex new fire safety demands—particularly in energy storage applications. Questions of standardisation, regional guideline disparities, and the role of third-party certification are also tackled, offering insight into the practical realities of specifying and designing water mist systems in global contexts.
The session concludes with forward-looking reflections from each speaker, touching on innovation trajectories, regulatory evolution, and the most promising application areas for the next generation of water mist systems.
This is an essential discussion for fire safety professionals, consultants, system integrators, and industry stakeholders seeking deeper insight into a technology that continues to redefine fire protection for the modern built environment.
Watch the session on-demand here.
Hosted by:
Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer
Panelists:
Dirk Sprakel, Fogtec
Markku Vuorisalo, Marioff
Dirk Laibach, Tyco Fire Protection Products (Johnson Controls)
Robert Mostad, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden
