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London Hotel fined for breaching fire safety

News Desk /

A hotel owner has been ordered to pay £50,000 after he continued to take guests despite being issued with a prohibition notice for serious fire safety failings. He also received custodial sentences, suspended for two years. London Fire Brigade inspectors visited The Bank Hotel on Ripple Road in Barking in May 2018 where they found deficiencies significant enough to warrant a prohibition notice. Fire safety deficiencies included a lack of fire doors, no smoke detectors and no fire alarm system. Concerns around the fire safety failings were heightened due to the fact the first floor of the building was in an obvious state of refurbishment and cigarette butts were found on the floor near a bed, on windowsills and in other areas. After further concerns were raised about the running of the hotel, further inspections carried out during the subsequent two months found the prohibition notice, originally affixed to the door in owner Naveed Mir’s presence, had been removed and there were clearly still guests staying in the hotel. This was exacerbated by the fact that there had been no obvious measures taken to remedy the fire safety deficiencies. Once inspectors were satisfied there were sufficient fire safety measures in place after a final visit in September 2018, the prohibition notice was removed. Mr Mir was subsequently charged with several breaches of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which included the two breaches of the prohibition notice. He pleaded not guilty but was found guilty after a trial and fined £40,000 and ordered to pay £10,000 costs at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday 13th October. He also received custodial sentences, suspended for two years. The Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner, Charlie Pugsley, said: “When our inspectors visited this property, it wasn’t immediately obvious it was a hotel, particularly given the state of the first floor, but it was clear guests had been staying in the building. “The lack of fire safety measures in place, coupled with the refurbishment work and numerous signs of cigarette butts, all could have been a recipe for disaster. “The lack of a fire alarm and insufficient means of escape could have easily led to a fatality if there had been a fire in the premises. “It’s vital for all business owners to be aware of their legal fire safety responsibilities. “There’s no excuse for leaving people’s safety to chance, especially when information is so readily available to those with responsibility for safety in buildings to understand what their duties are and ensure they comply with the law.” Full list of charges and penalties Article 8: (including lack of sufficient fire doors, numerous perforations between the first and second floors and single means of escape neither safe nor effective due to potential hazards along the route) – £4,000 fine+ 6 months custodial sentence Article 13: lack of appropriate fire detectors and alarms – £4,000 fine+ 6 months custodial sentence Article 5: lack of emergency evacuation plans – £4,000 fine+ 6 months custodial sentence Article 31: breach of prohibition notice (May/June) – £14,000 fine+ 12 months custodial sentence Article 31: breach of prohibition notice (June/July) – £14,000 fine+ 12 months custodial sentence The custodial sentences were all suspended for two years. Mr Mir was also ordered to pay a £170 victim surcharge and costs of £10,000. To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Teledyne FLIR to show off products at ADIPEC

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Teledyne FLIR, innovators in gas detection and monitoring technologies will present its newest products and innovative solution for gas detection and monitoring from booth 11600 in Hall 11 at ADIPEC 2022, one of the largest events of its kind from the 31 October to 3rd November at Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates hosting more than 150,000 energy professionals and visitors worldwide.  The oil and gas industry faces many maintenance issues, from invisible gas leaks to failing electrical or mechanical systems. Teledyne products and solutions help survey facilities faster, troubleshoot failures, target the source of leaks, and maintain regulatory compliance and help inspectors, managers, and technicians around the world solve problems quickly and avoid expensive shutdowns.  FLIR optical gas imaging (OGI) cameras are used throughout the Oil and Gas industry to detect methane and other hydrocarbon emissions from the extraction, transmission, and processing of petroleum and natural gas. These cameras visualise hundreds of invisible gases, allowing inspectors, engineers, and maintenance crews to identify leaks safely without having to shut down critical systems.  At the booth will be displayed the FLIR GFx320 representing ground-breaking technology for visualising fugitive hydrocarbon leaks at natural gas well sites, offshore platforms, liquid natural gas terminals, and more. Its certifications for use in hazardous locations allow surveyors to work confidently while maintaining safety. FLIR designed the GFx320 with the user in mind, offering ergonomic features such as the articulating LCD screen to help you avoid fatigue during all-day surveys.  In the spotlight will also be the FLIR GF77 is a ground-breaking uncooled optical gas imaging camera with interchangeable lens options that detect methane, sulphur hexafluoride (SF6), ethylene, ammonia, and other gas emissions. Capable of both gas detection and radiometric temperature measurement for thermal inspections, the GF77 is ideal for electric power utilities, oil and natural gas operations, chemical/manufacturing facilities, the food and agriculture industry, and first responders.  To be showcased are the FLIR T-Series thermal cameras for efficient condition monitoring that offer the flexibility, precision, and features needed to inspect equipment safely and prevent breakdowns. This includes the T865, T518 and T1020 (service Demo).  On the booth, ADIPEC visitors will also view a big range of Extech products including the RH250W, a compact hygro-thermometer and the AN250W, a compact airflow metre with Bluetooth connectivity, which allows building and maintenance professionals to view and share relative humidity, air velocity and temperature data directly from a mobile device using the free ExView app. Others in the range include LT250W, SL250W, RPM250W, HDV640W and many more.  Visitors will also have the great opportunity to view the Teledyne FLIR Test and Measure products from clamp metres, Multimeters, Moisture Metres, IR thermometers and IR windows known for their great accuracy and durability. To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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During disaster, take a breath

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Breathing apparatus has saved so many lives from catastrophe since its inception. Today, we will take a look at past disasters where breathing apparatus could have been instrumental in protecting victims  Fighting fires comes with more risk than just heat exhaustion or fire damage. Firefighting is a monumental undertaking in every facet, exerting a huge demand on teams both physically and mentally. Having to deal with the stress of combating a hostile force of nature hellbent on consuming both you and its surroundings, indiscriminate in the way it exerts this punishment, means that the quality of both training and equipment must be of the highest order to ensure firefighters aren’t conquered by the same thing they strive to rescue people from. Since the dawn of human time we have understood the raw destructive power that fire possesses, but it has taken thousands of years to fully understand the latent harm fire can do. Burning material spews harmful carcinogens into the air around it, which are in turn inhaled by firefighters. In small doses the effect is negligible, but when fighting intense fire regularly is your profession, your exposure to smoke is commonplace. The urbanisation of the modern world also means fumes emitted from burning plastic, chemicals and other artificial compounds are mixed in with the smoke, which bring with them an even greater factor of contracting cancers and other long-term respiratory issues.    This is where breathing apparatus comes in: a technology that has aided in the longevity of fire and rescue services, civilians, pilots and other professionals in every corner of modern industry. The effect it has had on the modern world cannot be overstated, especially as the prevalence of environments with hazardous carcinogens and chemicals is on the upward trend.    Perhaps, then, the best way to understand the importance of breathing apparatus is to look back in time to a time in the technology’s infancy, where it was less readily available. Today, we will be looking at some real-world disaster case studies where breathing apparatus would have been instrumental in saving more lives, both from a professional and civilian point of view.    Before we take a look back, though, it’s important to understand the function of breathing apparatus and the innovative technology that powers it. Respiratory apparatus, also known as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), provides the user with clean and breathable air in environments where such a resource is scarce, without the need for an exterior source. As such, an independent tank or container of fresh air can be carried with the user, allowing for extended periods of operation without a need to refill air. There are two types of SCBA: closed-circuit and open-circuit. The former recycles the air the user exhales, allowing for longer periods of usage than open-circuit. It also forgoes the need for a large and cumbersome supply of air, allowing the user to navigate narrow areas. With these advantages it makes closed-circuit breathing apparatus the preferable option for underwater or underground rescue operations.   To read the rest of this feature, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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London Fire appoints 2 Deputy Commissioners

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London Fire Brigade has appointed Dominic Ellis and Jonathan Smith as the service’s new Deputy Commissioners. Their appointment follows a rigorous recruitment process which involved input from a range of stakeholders including community groups and follows Richard Mills’ decision to retire from the Brigade after 31 years’ service. Dominic has been an Assistant Commissioner since August 2014 and has 33 years’ service with the Brigade. He has attended a number of major incidents, including terrorist attacks, the Grenfell Tower fire and the recent wildfires during the prolonged period of dry weather this summer. Dominic said: “My proudest recent achievement has been working as Head of Operational Policy and Assurance to drive key aspects of our response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations. “I have overseen the implementation of industry leading improvements in high rise firefighting and Fire Survival Guidance (FSG) policies. The hard work of my team has increased safety for residents in tall buildings and ensured all 4,700 firefighters have received the required training and development in these new policies. “There is so much more to do, particularly further improving the training provided to our firefighters which will be a key priority for me.” Jonathan joined the Brigade three and a half years ago from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. His first role involved working to overhaul procedures and practices in Brigade Control, and most recently he was Assistant Commissioner for Fire Stations. Jonathan said: “Every position has shown me the calibre and character of everybody who works in the Brigade and that gives me real optimism. It also reinforces the responsibility and privilege that I now have as Deputy Commissioner, something I do not take lightly. “I look forward to working with senior managers and teams across the organisation so that the Brigade continues to improve not only the benefit of everyone who works in the organisation, but crucially for London and Londoners.” London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said: “I congratulate Jonathan and Dominic on their appointments, which are vital as the Brigade prepares to further change and improve for the benefit of Londoners.” They will support the Brigade’s transformation as set out in the draft Community Risk Management Plan and supports succession planning. To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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The current climate of wildfires

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The unfolding climate change crisis has the planet in a stranglehold. How did we get here? What can we do to stop the relentless march of wildfires?   Wildfires are some of the biggest threats to the human world that can come from mother nature. Something as small and insignificant as a lit cigarette can be the cause of an uncontrollable blaze that stretches for miles, causing immeasurable damage to crops, nature and man-made infrastructure. Since records began in 2003, wildfires have become increasingly commonplace and violent due to the ongoing climate change crisis. Fire services across the globe are beginning to feel the effects of this wildfire epidemic and are spread thin in both manpower and resources as they struggle to keep up with this new demand. But as the famous saying goes, it is important to know your enemy to begin to understand the signs and conditions necessary for a wildfire to break out. It would be unrealistic to assume you can stop them all, but understanding how to effectively contain one to ensure it does as little damage as possible is necessary to keep people safe from them. Climate change isn’t going anywhere anytime soon and so we as a society must come to terms with our changing world and adapt.    Wildfires can occur in any place in the world so long as three criteria are met, known colloquially as the “fire triangle” – there must be a source of heat, a source of fuel, and sufficient oxygen for one to take hold. These prerequisites can be met in most of the natural world save for the few areas which see extreme cold, such as at the poles. Once a fire takes place, it can be hard to stop: dry vegetation such as leaves or grasses are the perfect kindling to initiate a wildfire, while evergreen trees such as pines contain natural oils that are very flammable. With such a dense and rich resource available to the fire, it is very easy for it to begin running rampant. Other natural variables such as wind play a huge role in the spread of wildfires, and even a light breeze can be sufficient to cause spread. While this has the obvious long–term effect of damage to wildlife, the environment and local settlements, it can also have more insidious effects. It is theorised that nearly 20% of the world’s carbon reserves can be found in trees: when carbon burns, it releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Misery loves company – this pollutes the air and creates a deadly greenhouse effect which in turn heats up the surrounding area further, allowing for easier conditions for further fires to start.  To read the rest of this feature, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Ask the Expert – Dafo

Exclusives, Technology /

Fire Buyer quizzes foam whizzes Dafo Fomtec about reinventing foams at the height of its renaissance  Could you introduce yourself and what you do?   My name is John-Olav Ottesen and I am the Managing Director and Owner of Dafo Fomtec, a manufacturer of firefighting foam and foam equipment. Nowadays, I manage a professional team involved in the development, production, sales and supply of high-quality foam solutions to more than 65 countries around the world.   What is the history of Dafo Fomtec?   The company was established 21 years ago as a partnership between myself and Dafo Brand after I left my previous role with Total Walther (now part of JCI) in Germany. 3M had just left the firefighting foam market and I believed that their departure created an opportunity for a new manufacturer of firefighting foam.   We offer a complete range of Class A and Class B firefighting foams and have established a reputation for innovation and customer service in terms of developing products for specific applications or markets, and meeting client delivery requirements. We have developed, tested and approved products for use by municipal firefighters through to US Mil Spec, and UL/FM approved products for use with fixed foam systems.   In the last 10 years the strategic partnership with hardware manufacturer Viking has allowed accelerated development work as industry transitions away from C8 to C6 based foams, and now to fluorine free foams. Fomtec was proud to be one of the first foam manufacturers to complete the transition to C6 foam offerings, and now the Enviro Programme has brought more than 15 high performance fluorine free foams to market. This includes the first FM approved alcohol resistant fluorine free foam for use on polar solvent fuel fires with standard sprinklers!   The foam industry is seeing an increased focus towards sustainability. How do you ensure the sustainability of your own products?   Sustainability for Fomtec starts with the raw materials that we use in the production of our foam concentrates. All our suppliers must meet Fomtec ‘s standards and commit to regular testing to check levels of any potential impurities.   The other major area that impacts our contribution to sustainability is the collection, monitoring and control of all our waste from production and packaging. This year we have invested further in our main manufacturing facility in Helsingborg, Sweden to completely separate the production of PFAS based and Fluorine Free foams!   The long-term environmental concerns with older foams are what sparked this draw towards sustainability. Could you talk more about the environmental issues associated with older foams?   As mentioned, Fomtec was established shortly after 3M withdrew from the business of manufacturing firefighting foam. 3M exited the market due to their manufacture and use of a compound known as PFOS (Per-fluorooctane sulfonate) in their products. This substance is now identified as a POP (Persistent Organic Pollutant) and must be disposed through incineration.  To read the rest of this feature, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Magirus presents the Wolf C1 

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When every minute counts or long distances must be covered in rough terrain, transporting heavy loads and equipment can become a real challenge. The innovative Wolf C1 tactical logistics platform from Magirus supports the fire department and disaster control in precisely this situation. The reliable swap body system with airline rails is fully compatible with common equipment or can be individually equipped for special purposes. Because even with maximum payload, the Wolf C1 always remains manoeuvrable and safe to use. Its outstanding flexibility and versatility make it the ideal vehicle for a wide range of tasks.  Having already handed over the first Wolf R1 to a customer this year, the story of Magirus’ remote-operated tactical units continues with the launch of the Wolf C1 at the Florian trade fair in Dresden. This is the next generation of mission support and logistics.  The Magirus Wolf C1 is part of Magirus’ innovative and modern Next Generation Firefighting product portfolio. The interplay of networking, robotics and the continuous development of practical innovations is also reflected in this product. The Wolf C1, as a flexible, supportive transport and logistics robot with its universal swap body system, meets the motto of finding the right solution for every context in every respect. Particularly with the current effects of the climate disaster with extreme forest and wildfires, it is crucial that it has extremely high off-road capability as a powerful tracked vehicle, just like the Wolf R1.  The easy-to-use lift table design ensures simple lifting and picking up of various loads. The application possibilities are very versatile and simple due to its adaptability and the connection possibility with modular accessories. From pure transport tasks to a mobile lighting mast, as a manual large thrower to support in hose laying. Depending on the requirements, the emergency command can transport or directly mount various elements such as fans, hoses, water monitors or light masts with the Wolf C1. The Wolf C1 can also be used for direct human rescue, because it can transport injured people safely and gently with its spring-mounted chassis and the structure of a slider basket stretcher. Magirus is thus also a leader in the field of applied rescue robotics. The Wolf C1 is controlled via a radio remote control or a Magirus VCU.  With TacticNet, those responsible on site can determine the optimal deployment tactics based on comprehensive, up-to-date, and unfiltered information. This is the basis for fast, targeted, and efficient operations in a hazardous situation. The Wolf C1 will be the next component of this advantageous control support. As a professional logistics partner, the Magirus Wolf C1 is equipped with a trailer coupling and has enormous tractive power with its drive output of 15 kW.  To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Teledyne Exhibiting at Adipec 2022

News Desk /

One of the largest events of its kind, ADIPEC 2022 (31 October – 3 November, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates) will host more than 150,000 energy professionals and visitors worldwide.  With over 140,000 gross square metres of exhibition space across sixteen halls, there will be plenty to see, especially for any companies seeking reliable, high-quality, proven gas detection and monitoring technologies. From Booth 9413 in Hall 9, Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection will shine the spotlight on several proven products that enhance safety and bring even more capabilities to the oil and gas sector.  Visitors to the booth will also discover how Teledyne will meet the gas detection demands of the giant Hail and Ghasha sour gas project that is currently in development off the UAE coastline.  Among the class-leading products on display from Teledyne GFD will be the GD1 hydrogen sulphide (H2S) laser detector, which features a unique, customisable laser diode that, rather than emitting a conventional straight beam of light, travels as a cone from one point to another. In other words, the beam expands after transmission and is almost a metre in diameter when it reaches the receiver. As a result, the beam can penetrate harsh environments that competitor solutions may find difficult. The GD1 also performs real-time auto-calibration and auto-proof testing, and provides a very high sampling or detection rate i.e., 8000 times/sec. Well over 800 units have been deployed in the field since 2011.  Also in the spotlight will be the GD10P infrared gas detector with full firmware upgrade, enhancing the product’s performance in high demand mode SIL2 approved applications. In comparison with other infrared gas detectors, the new firmware adds further to GD10P’s differentiating factors, which include a solid-state infrared source and a 15-year warranty.  Moreover, despite the shortages experienced in the global semiconductor industry, we have been able to ensure business continuity for most of our products. As such we demonstrate our operational excellence and continue to respond quickly to almost any need. With GD10P, we prove our product leadership, offering to our partners leading-edge products and services. In fact, we have recently sold our 100,000th. Elsewhere on the booth, ADIPEC visitors will find the GD10PE infrared point gas detector, which is ideal when users need fast, reliable detection of low gas concentrations. With a measuring range of 0-20% LEL, the GD10PE is five times more sensitive than standard point detectors.  Another exciting innovation launching at the show is Spyglass, a brand-new range of flame detectors offering integrated high-definition CCTV video that facilitates the clear, rapid imaging of fire and people at unprecedented distances. When connected to a DVR/NVR, the rescue team becomes aware of the exact situation before entering the hazardous area. A range of high-capability models is available offering a selection of different detectors. Visitors should head for the booth to find out more.  Teledyne’s product portfolio houses a variety of detection technologies, including fixed, portable and wireless, as well as area monitors. Sometimes a mix of solutions can improve reliability and availability, as evidenced in the company’s proposal for the enormous Hail and Ghasha sour gas development, which is set to go live in 2024.  To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Big Interview – Fiona Perrin

Big Interview /

Fire Buyer speaks to Fiona Perrin, fire safety pioneer, to address the most pressing issues in the fire industry and how inclusivity can lead to innovation  Can you introduce yourself and what you do?   I’m Fiona Perrin. I am an experienced safety leader with nearly 20 years’ experience across numerous industries.  Over the last 10 years I have been increasing my knowledge in fire safety and most recently I graduated with first class honours from a fire engineering degree.  I am a Chartered Fellow with IOSH and a Member of IFE.  I am currently working for the Royal Academy of Arts where I help protect our staff, visitors and art safe.  I also have a passion for supporting women in the industry and mentor a number of women in both safety and fire sectors.   Margaret Law once described fire safety engineers as needing to be “tough enough to stand up to a good deal of questioning” and in turn “to be able to push other people in the same way: justify what you are saying if you expect to be taken seriously”.  What are your thoughts on this?   Margaret Law was an international pioneer and a major influence in our professional world of fire science and fire safety engineering as well as being an all round pretty awesome woman.     Margaret believed profoundly in what she termed measurement and how it was fundamental to proper engineering design.  Her research led to many changes in the modern building codes.  Her research interests included how fires start and spread through high-rise buildings, heat radiation from fires and requirements for building separation for fire protection.   There are many different voices at the moment in the world of fire engineering and many of them shouting about their interests – but if this isn’t backed up in research and hard evidence then it shouldn’t be allowed into the arena.  Margaret believed Fire Engineers need to be able to be tested and challenged in a vigorous way.    I graduated from my Fire Engineering degree at the age of 40.  I don’t think I would have been as good at what I do now if I had done it 20 years ago.  You not only have to be tough, but you also have to be confident – in your assumptions and also in yourself.  We must be able to face being challenged but we also must be able to challenge the status quo.   Margaret was the first woman to become a member of the Institution of Fire Engineers back in 1971.  I am now Chair of the IFE Women in Fire Engineering Networking Group where we have over 600 members of our LinkedIn Group.  Yet still only 7% of members of the IFE are female.  This decreases to just 4% when looking at Member grade.   How will inclusivity of women and minority groups in fire safety aid in the prosperity of the industry?  I’m a big believer in diversity of thought.  That is, including more women and those from minority groups broadens the range of experiences, perspectives and thought processes.  The benefits associated with diversity of thought in the workplace are especially notable at the leadership level, where excessive homogeneity (i.e. too many old white men) can stifle innovation, and leave critical blind spots.  A recent study found that companies with the most women board directors outperformed those with the least by up to 26%.  To read the rest of this interview, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Quick Fire – Alex Harvey

Exclusives /

Alex Harvey, Co-Founder and Creative Director, RiVR   What does fire protection mean to you?  When I hear the words ‘fire protection’, it makes me instantly think about the power of virtual reality to deliver amazing immersive fire protection training, like we are doing for the UK fire service currently.  What made you want to work in the industry?  I was first introduced to the fire industry and how virtual reality can help the training by Paul Speight, at the Emergency Services Show 2017. Since then, we’ve been working on a number of immersive experiences that are now being used by lots of UK fire departments to deliver synchronised virtual reality training. We are currently working on a new immersive experience which is solely based on fire protection, and we are doing this with Paul Speight and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.   If you could talk to your younger self, what would you say?  If I had the chance to talk to my younger self, I would tell him to be patient – it takes a long time for immersive mediums to mature enough to be ready for everyday training use.   Describe a funny thing that happened to you recently.  I was eating my dinner with my children watching television, when I popped up on the screen talking about the work we have been doing. I didn’t know the piece was going to be on television so quickly, so we all had quite a good laugh at my television voice!  What three traits define you?  Ambitious. Driven. Addicted to virtual reality.   What’s the most important trend you see today?  The most important trend I see today is firefighters are being trained with four times more efficiency using virtual reality. Lots of fire stations are seeing what other stations are doing and are implementing the same techniques.  If you didn’t work in the fire industry, what would you be doing?  If I wasn’t working in the fire industry in so much detail with immersive technologies, I would be doing entertainment experiences in virtual reality for the film and TV industry.  What’s the most interesting thing you wouldn’t find out about you on your CV?  The fact that I scan, using photogrammetry, about four different objects every day for my own personal collection. These can be found on my Sketchfab channel!  To read more news and exclusive features see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on:  International Fire Buyer @Firebuyer Fire Buyer Media Contact Louis Curtis Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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