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The front line of fire safety

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Fire alarms are the first early warning signals of a fire. Fire Buyer takes you through how to choose the best standardised system for your organisation In order for you to have fire safety there must be a way for you to have an early fire warning. In case an untoward fire happens when you have a fire alarm this can immediately be put off because people are immediately alerted about it. Thus it will be prevented from wreaking more havoc in one’s home.  When it comes to fire alarms people often think that such a small alarm is only necessary inside the home. But actually you also need to install an external smoke detector. This will make sure that if the untoward fire happens outside your home it can be contained immediately so that it doesn’t get to your house.  Because we are living in a high-tech world now it has become easy to purchase systems or gadgets that we can use in our home or establishment. This is the same with the fire prevention system that includes the external smoke detector. You can easily look at the websites online of the companies that supply such systems and make a comparison of their features. Of course it is also crucial that you compare the price that they charge for such kinds of systems. This is what you need to do when you are getting a fire prevention system for your home or establishment. There are so many different alarm systems that are available in the market, and choosing the right one for your premises might not be an easy task. Choosing the right external smoke detector, or even a combination of detectors will be very important to ensure that fire will be detected at the earliest point in case of break out.  However, you will also need to make sure that you consider other factors like minimising the risk of having a false alarm. Fire detectors are designed in such a way that they will detect at least one of the four characteristics of fire which are smoke, fire, combustion gas as well as infrared or the ultraviolet radiation. In case one of these characteristics is identified, then the detector will trigger an alarm. There are several different fire alarm systems that you will come across in the market, and they are all designed to trigger an alarm. One of the most common fire alarm systems is the smoke detector.  When you are choosing an outside camera system, then you will need to make sure that you chose one according to the environment where it is being used. Ensure that you have conducted adequate research about the kind of fire alarm system that will suit your needs. Not every fire alarm system that you will come across will be the right one for you as they will depend on several factors. There are some considerations that you will need to keep in mind when you are looking for a fire alarm system so that you make the right choice. You want to make sure that the fire will be detected at the earliest point and this will only be possible when you have the right alarm system in place.  When you are thinking of installing an external fire detection system in your home, it will be an important thing for you to ensure that you work with a professional who well understands these detectors. If you don’t know exactly what you are supposed to check, ensure that you look for an expert who will assess your place and determine which will be the right fire alarm system for you. Seeking the help of a professional will also ensure that you are not confused and it will even make the process easier and less stressful for you, and you shall also achieve the best fire alarm system for you. The necessities Many people do not have fire alarm systems installed in their homes. Many assume that they are able to smell smoke when they are asleep and wake up in time to escape in case of a fire emergency. Well, this is not true at all. Studies have been conducted and it has been proven that people’s sleep is disrupted when there is sound or noise, but it is NOT the case with smell. Our sense of smell is lost when we are asleep, and we will not wake up no matter how strong the smell of smoke is. Many people do not take fire alarms seriously, and many do not test or check their alarm systems regularly. The only thing that can alert you, your family and colleagues 24/7 from a fire is the sound of a well installed and maintained fire alarm system. Fire alarms are important because they can give you an early signal to something that could be tragic – basically saving your lives. A fire alarm alerts you when you are busy, working or sleeping. You can therefore take action before major damage takes place, thus saving you the cost of property loss- also saving insurance companies a lot of damage cost. More than half of house fires take place in homes that do not have fire alarms, and mostly at night, resulting in a high number of deaths. It is easy to get trapped in the start of a fire. An early detection can get you out of a situation that would potentially turn into a tragedy. Make sure to also alert your family and friends on the importance of installing fire alarm systems. Here are a few safety and maintenance tips for you to keep in mind: Install a fire alarm in every room of a house especially where you sleep, and in every office of an organisation. Check your batteries of signs of corrosion or battery life. Replace the batteries once a year. Make sure you teach your children what to do when they hear the sound of a fire alarm.

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Quick Fire: Kevin Swann, Managing Director of Kentec Electronics

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Our latest Quick Fire Questions personality interview was with Kevin Swann, Managing director of Kentec electronics What does ‘fire protection’ mean to you? It is great to work for an industry that protects infrastructure, commercial, historic buildings and homes, but an honour to work in an industry that really does save lives all around the world every day! What made you want to work in the industry? When in the semiconductor industry, I worked with a fire detector company on a world leading protocol device, this led me to the fire industry. If you could change anything in the industry, what would it be? Legislation/regulation – the industry needs to be taken more seriously, drive standards of installation and products to higher levels and recognition. Describe a funny thing that happened to you recently? Being asked by security in an airport lounge why I was looking at their cameras – I was actually looking at the fire detector which was placed right next to the camera!  What three traits define you? Optimistic, enthusiastic and encouraging  What’s the most important trend you see today? The move to systems that include self-healing wireless mesh technology, now that complete sets have RED DOT and LPCB approval. If you didn’t work in the fire industry, what would you be doing? Semiconductor industry – the variety of industry exposure is amazing. What’s the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn’t learn from your CV? My wife and I love and miss Ronnie Scott’s Jazz club and the weekends in London. I travel a lot and am often away from home, but in fact I’m a real family man.  What is one thing you would make compulsory in the office and one thing you would ban? Compulsory, do what you commit to or let us know in advance so we can adjust. Ban Ties and jackets  Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Contributing more to the success and long term sustainability of Kentec/Hochiki and our great employees . I’m not stupidly ambitious, I’m not looking to be emperor of the universe or anything like that – but you can always do more – and you should!     To stay up to date on the latest, trends, innovations, people news and company updates within the global fire market please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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E2S launches major upgrade to its AlertAlight

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E2S Warning Signals is pleased to announce that the latest iteration of the AlertAlarm, the AlertAlight and the Sonora families are available from 01 June 2021. The alarm horn sounders, beacons and combined units have become synonymous with providing reliable and effective alarm notification in the harshest of environments since the original A100, A105, A110 and A120 product range was launched nearly 30 years ago. E2S have continued to innovate, providing improvements in features, performance and approvals. Upgrades have been introduced to both the enclosures and electronics to create the universal solution for industrial, marine and ordinary location applications. The AlertAlarm and AlertAlight products now contain the standard E2S set of 64 international alarm tones and 4 remotely activated stages/channels. First and second stage tones can be set individually, permitting greater flexibility in tone choice. Voltage supply ranges have been extended to assist with product selection whilst current in-rush has been minimised. Pluggable, duplicated terminals facilitate Class A wiring and reduce installation time. The A100 sounders and the AL100 combined units now produce up to 110dBA, whilst the industry standard A105N/AL105N now utilises a new enclosure design with threaded cable entries to simplify installation. A112N/AL112N and A121/AL121 type products now contain the latest in Class D amplification and feature additional methods of stage control along with up to 124dB(A) sound level output. A choice of two power modes is available during installation, enabling the optimum level of current consumption and sound output to be selected for the application. The L101H has been upgraded to include a new electronic sub-assembly using an array of 18 super bright Cree LED’s and offering a choice of steady mode and seven flashing modes, including a new highly effective temporal pattern. The L101H LED upgrade includes UL and ULC private mode fire approval and is available as a combination signal with any of the AlertAlarm or Sonora type alarm horn sounders. Globally approved to UL and EN standards for fire and general signalling, core products are also now DNV approved and MED compliant to the latest directive for marine applications across all voltages. Third party approvals are provided by default across the ranges to ensure compliance with the latest standards and directives wherever the application is located.   To stay up to date on the latest, trends, innovations, people news and company updates within the global fire market please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Fire Services launch Capita’s emergency video software

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Surrey and West Sussex are the two latest Fire and Rescue Services planning to go live with Capita’s 999eye live video-streaming and location-finding service.  Supporting 50 fire stations across both counties and covering an area of almost 1,400 square miles, 999eye enables emergency operators to have ‘eyes’ on the scene to help assess the severity of the incident and ensure the most appropriate response is quickly mobilised.  When a 999 call is received, the caller will be asked if they would like to provide a live video stream of the scene using their smartphone. Using 999eye, the control room operator will send a text message with a secure, one-time-use link that opens a live stream direct from the smartphone to the control room.  The software will then send the caller’s GPS to the emergency control room to pinpoint their exact location. In the case of some fire emergencies, due to distress or uncertainty, the location and circumstances can be unclear when communicated over the phone to an operator. 999eye reduces the potential for confusion by providing a real-time picture of the incident and its whereabouts.  Multiple users can view the 999eye live streams, if required, including control room supervisors, senior officers and the responding crew attending the scene. As such, the software will also enable emergency operators to advise on public safety and warn people away from potential danger.  Paul Eggleton, managing director of Capita Secure Solutions and Services, said: “It’s great news for the people of Surrey and West Sussex that their fire and rescue services will go live with our game-changing location-finding and video-streaming software. 999eye is an example of digital innovation working hand-in-hand with local fire and rescue personnel to facilitate the quickest and safest response possible in the event of an emergency.”   To stay up to date on the latest, trends, innovations, people news and company updates within the global fire market please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Airport adds three new Rosenbauer Panthers

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Rosenbauer America announced the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has ordered three new Rosenbauer 6×6 Panthers. These new Panther vehicles will join the existing fleet of six Panthers that have been working the front lines for the past two years at one of the world’s busiest airports. “We are truly honored to be providing these specialized apparatus to protect the Atlanta International Airport,” said John Slawson, CEO and President of Rosenbauer America. “Receiving an order for three more Rosenbauer ARFF vehicles means we are meeting the needs of firefighters in both production and service.” The capabilities of the Rosenbauer Panthers are second to none. These state-of-the-art firefighting vehicles pack a punch with 700 hp, reaching speeds of 70 mph combined with the ability to throw 2,100 gpm of foam more than 300 feet. These Panthers are also loaded with new safety enhancements, combined with a multitude of agents and capabilities to attack any fire. Cameras and lighting surround these vehicles, so the operator has full visibility day and night. Thermal imaging cameras identify victims and expose hidden fires for the Panthers with Stinger piercing tips to make the best strategic interior attack, all from inside the cabs. The entire fleet is remotely monitored 24 hours a day to ensure the trucks are always operating at peak performance.   “Having a front-line of nine Rosenbauer Panthers will be a game changer for the men and women of Atlanta Fire Rescue,” said Slawson. “This will allow for more intensive training and the use of muscle memory when seconds matter.” The three newest Panthers will be delivered in the spring of 2022.   To stay up to date on the latest, trends, innovations, people news and company updates within the global fire market please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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TFT announces new partnership

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Task Force Tips (TFT), a fire service leader in innovative and life-saving firefighting equipment, is excited to announce a new partnership with Hoosier Burn Camp (HBC). The partnership is a natural fit for TFT, which was founded on the legacy of firefighter Clyde McMillian, who was severely burned in the line of duty. TFT has committed to a significant, multi-year sponsorship to bolster the important work Hoosier Burn Camp is already doing to improve the lives of young burn survivors and their families.  “Task Force Tips is proud to forge a long-term strategic partnership with Hoosier Burn Camp. Our leadership team, as well as our employees, welcome the opportunity to work together with Hoosier Burn Camp to continue their mission of building hope for young individuals traumatized by fire-related injuries. Hoosier Burn Camp provides purpose that aligns with the values of our life-saving mission as well as our goals to make the world safer, healthier and more productive. Together, we will greatly multiply the efforts of fundraising and hands-on philanthropy to serve more burn survivors than ever before, “said Task Force Tips CEO, Chris Vazzana. Hoosier Burn Camp provides year-round, life-changing programs for burn survivors free of charge, including a week-long summer camp near Lafayette, Indiana. “We are humbled to partner with Task Force Tips and their team to help further the important work that’s happening within the HBC family. These funds will expand our reach and services that we offer to young burn survivors in the state of Indiana,” said HBC Executive Director Mark Koopman.   To stay up to date on the latest, trends, innovations, people news and company updates within the global fire market please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Seek Thermal introduces Reveal FirePRO X

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Seek Thermal, supplier of thermal sensors for the public safety market, announced the Reveal FirePRO X, the latest version of its high-resolution personal thermal imaging camera (TIC) for firefighters. The upgraded, handheld thermal imaging camera features a new charging port, which makes it even more durable and easier to access when needed. Additionally, a new four bay multi-charger is available, allowing for compact housing and versatile mounting options for placement in the fire station, mounted on a wall, or anywhere appropriate power is available. With a high-performance 320 x 240 thermal sensor, durable IP67 rating, a wide, 32-degree field of view, and a powerful 300-lumen LED light, the Reveal FirePRO was already ideal for locating victims, personal navigation, and identifying hazards in seconds. The new Reveal FirePRO X combines the same impeccable thermal functionality with an improved seal for the charging port, a magnetic quick attach cable for easier connection than micro-USB and a multiple unit charging capability with the new Seek Thermal Multi-Charge dock. The Multi-Charge dock charges one to four FirePRO X TICs simultaneously and allows for desktop or wall mounting to help fire departments keep its units organized, secured and charged so they’re ready whenever – and wherever – they’re needed at a moment’s notice. “The Seek Thermal Reveal FirePRO is the fastest-growing personal fire TIC in the world, and now – based on feedback from firefighters on the job – we are excited to unveil the FirePRO X, which includes upgraded charging features to make it more durable than ever,” said Matt Nelson, Senior Product Manager, Seek Thermal. “We’re proud to offer firefighters across the country with the smallest, lightest, highest-resolution firefighting TIC on the market for under $1,000.” When every second counts and lives are on the line, firefighters need every tool possible to increase their operation speed and enhance their situational awareness to plan and execute their missions. The compact size of the lightweight Reveal FirePRO X makes it easy to carry and manage in tough conditions, while its high resolution and fast frame rate deliver images superior to any other camera in its price point, making it the go-to TIC for firefighters everywhere.   To stay up to date on the latest, trends, innovations, people news and company updates within the global fire market please register to receive our newsletter here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: editor@firebuyer.com    

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FIREX 2021, in-person and online

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FIREX International is seizing the opportunity for digital event avenues with a month long event throughout June in the lead up to their in person event in July FIREX International Connect 2021 is a brand-new, month-long digital event running throughout June. The upcoming FIREX International in-person event will take place at ExCeL London from 12-14 July, providing one of the first opportunities for the fire safety industry to unite face-to-face. “Both events present unmissable opportunities for the industry to reconnect and explore the innovative approaches to fire safety that have been born out of a challenging year,” said Chris Edwards, Group Director at Informa Markets. “Attendees will get to grips with the newest fire safety solutions, product launches and the impacts of the latest guidance and legislation.” FIREX Connect 2021: 1-30 June, Online The month-long online event running from 1-30 June will provide visitors with the opportunity to connect with new and international audiences through video calls and messaging, browse fire safety solutions and products, connect with suppliers and access thought-leadership content from any location. Visitors can plan meetings using the tailored 1.2.1 meeting service or the Connect 2021 AI-augmented platform, which will make intelligent recommendations based on their online profile. A series of tech-based presentations and thought-leadership panel discussions focusing on the industry’s most important topics, including building safety and tall building evacuations, are scheduled throughout June. Over 32,000 visitors from 120+ countries are expected to attend both events to connect with and view thousands of innovative products brand new to the market from more than 600 of the biggest names in the industry, including AICO, Coopers, Quelfire, Vimpex and Independent Fire Inspections. FIREX International in-person: 12-14 July, ExCeL London Learning, understanding and complying with the latest changes in fire and building safety regulations has never been more important. With incoming legislative reforms from the ‘Fire Safety Bill’ and ‘Building Safety Bill’, and a growing focus on safety culture within construction, the return to live events at FIREX International could not be timelier. Attendees will have the opportunity to share learnings in-person on the latest guidance and standards whilst being able to source, demo and procure innovative fire and building safety solutions from over 600 of the industry’s leading suppliers. FIREX International is supported by key fire safety associations the FIA, ASFP, FPA and more. FIREX International in-person will be delivered in line with the industry recognised, and Government approved, Informa AllSecure standard – designed to ensure the safety of all attendees. Informa AllSecure was piloted in September 2020 and approved by the UK Government on 19 November 2020 as a model for running large events safely. It involves several health and safety measures, including deep cleaning, social distancing onsite, staggered arrival times and PPE, including face masks.    

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The evolution of fire service vehicles

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Fire Buyer takes a look at the history of vehicles in the fire service and presents how technological innovation and the changing environment effects design There is no doubt about the fact that fires are as old as the entire human civilization which is why communities and societies have always felt the need to come up with organised ways to protect themselves from unpredictable fires. Also, considering how the world itself and populations have expanded so rapidly with rural areas and urban areas becoming so densely-packed, the need to come up with fire protection strategies at a civic level has increased a great deal. This was particularly evident during the formation of numerous American colonies when people realised that something had to be done to protect the new settlements from getting destroyed by these fires. Water pumps on wagon wheels The first ever fire apparatus that came into existence was the pumps-on-wheels equipment, which basically included a water supply pump that was mounted onto a wooden chassis. There was also a large lever attached to this framework whose main purpose was to provide a place to the firefighters to rest their feet. Although pumps on their own had existed since Roman times, they proved to be slightly difficult when used for the purpose of fire extinguishing. This is primarily because most of the early types of pumps simply spurted water rather than spraying it which made it quite challenging to generate an adequate stream of water. This equipment was called “bucket brigades” and was even used to put out fires in Europe. Horse-drawn pumpers Soon enough, as a result of the technological advancements post-Industrial Revolution, the pumps-on-wheels apparatus was replaced by horse-drawn steam pumpers. Groups of horses were used to pull steam trucks in order to pump water at the fire scene. This went on from the 1840s all the way until the First World War, especially in the United States. There were large horses that pulled heavy steam-powered fire trucks along with a team of three to four men who had to be present at the scene in order to operate the pump. Gasoline engines While horse-led steam trucks did solve quite a few issues, there were still big problems faced by firefighters in terms of logistics. The large teams of horses had to be watered, fed and stabled which proved to be quite time-consuming and costly. With the advent of the 19th century, these horse-driven trucks were taken over by gasoline engines. From the First World War until the 1920s, gasoline engines were used to power the fire trucks. A gradual increase in efficiency was noticed by people as gasoline completely superseded the use of steam. These engines proved to be faster and more efficient than horse-drawn steam powered trucks because the water pumps were much better able to create a powerful stream of water. Modern fire trucks and technology The fire trucks that you see today are mainly the result of technological advancement in materials, technology and environmental impact, in addition to innovation and adapting to a changing environment, particularly urbanisation. The modern fire truck is based on ladder trucks that were developed in the first half of the twentieth century. These trucks were specially created because cities were expanding both upwards and outwards rapidly and one of their most defining features during that century was the growth of the skyscraper. The firefighters sensed an imminent need for a firefighting apparatus that was durable, effective and ensured ultimate protection. The fires were also more common at greater heights which strongly called out for a ladder truck. A pivotal invention that incorporated the ladder technology was the “Hayes Ladder” which was very different from the previously used traditional kind of ladders. The main difference was that this one had the ladder mounted to the truck with a spring mechanism that allowed firefighters to raise or elevate the ladder at tall buildings. This further allowed them to rescue people from upper-level windows and even enter the building from a particular height. This particular fire equipment gained significant popularity and the idea of a ladder mounted to the fire trucks was carried forward to the 21st century, resulting in the much-similar modern-day fire truck. Ever since the idea of using a fire truck was formulated for fire protection, it has undergone several transformations that have resulted in a variety of different types of fire trucks. Some of these are still used quite commonly while others have faced great decline in their popularity. Conventional fire truck This is a standard type of fire truck with an engine which has been mainly developed for firefighting operations. It serves the purpose of taking the firefighters to the fire scene as well as carrying essential tools, hoses and equipment to the scene along with a limited water supply. The kind of tools carried by the conventional fire apparatus greatly depend on factors like the size of the vehicle and the type of terrain it has to handle. The latter can range from rough terrain to a smoother one. Pumper truck These are one of the most commonly used fire apparatus by most fire departments and are also often called ‘triple combination pumpers’. They are similar to wagons and are typically fitted with a hose body, fire pump and a water tank. A pumper is seen at any fire scene where it is basically used to provide firefighters with important tools to help contain the fire and also to save the victims. Turntable ladder truck This is a special aerial apparatus that makes use of a large ladder in order to gain access to those areas that are at quite a height. The unique name of this fire truck comes from the fact that there is a turntable present at the back of the truck which mounts a large ladder. The turntable allows the ladder to pivot which makes it easier to spray water in the desired direction. Many modern day turntable ladders come

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Ask the Expert: Evacuation for all

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Ges Wallace, Managing Director, Evac+Chair sits down virtually with Fire Buyer to discuss the importance of inclusivity, adherence to standards and evacuation processes Evac+Chair is the recognised global leader in stairway evacuation for people with disabilities or mobility impairments.Established for more than 35 years’, the company has a dedicated research and development team who continuously innovate to ensure people with disabilities and mobility impairments, can be safely evacuated from buildings in the event of a fire, or as a result of other emergencies. Ges Wallace, Managing Director, Evac+Chair has 30 years’ experience in the fire and security industry, qualifying as an Electrical Contracting Engineer with an engineering background. Ges’ experience and company places him as the ideal expert to discuss evacuation processes. How has the importance of inclusivity in evacuation grown over recent years, does it encompass more than physical disability? It is important to recognise that everyone has the right to a quick, safe means of escape from any commercial building. Whether mobility impaired or able-bodied, we could all experience circumstances in our life time when it might be more difficult to exit a building in an emergency. Grenfell sadly has highlighted the need for a more inclusive approach to the evacuation of the mobility impaired, the tragic incident resulted in 71 deaths including more than 20 who had a mobility impairment. It’s sad, but so often true, that we have to wait for a disaster to occur before we look at legislation and make improvements for a safer environment for us all. Evacuation is for everyone, including the most vulnerable. Historically, protest groups including the Direct Action Network, campaigned for the civil rights of disabled people and to end discrimination. Overall, more than 100,000 people took part in protests in some way, which included demonstrations outside the houses of Parliament. There were 14 attempts to push civil rights legislation for disabled people through Parliament between the early 1980s and mid-1990s. In 1995, the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) was finally passed. It made it illegal for employers and service providers such as shops and restaurants to discriminate against someone because they were disabled. Undoubtedly, there is also a need for evacuation chairs due to the increased age of the workforce. An ever-growing proportion of the workforce is over 65, and accommodations need to be made in light of this. One estimate shows that one third of the total UK workforce is over 50, among whom will undoubtedly be many mobility-impaired. In addition to this, it is already the case that nearly 7 million UK citizens of working age are disabled. These demographic factors must be considered, when we strive for the means of evacuation for everyone. Can you explain how your solutions benefit the mobility impaired? Our Evac+Chair has been proven to provide the safest, quickest means of escape for the mobility impaired. We have been manufacturing the Evac+Chair for over 35 years and have made several design changes over the years to make the current Evac+Chair Mk5 the safest means of escape for those not able to follow procedures, which are often written without the mobility impaired in mind. The paper (“An analysis and numerical simulation of the performance of trained hospital staff using movement assist devices to evacuate people with reduced mobility”. Aoife Hunt, Edwin R Galea and Peter J Lawrence – Fire Safety Engineering Group, University of Greenwich, London UK) describes work undertaken to quantify the performance of trained hospital staff in evacuating people with reduced mobility. Data was collected from 32 trials in which a test subject was evacuated through 11 floors of Ghent University Hospital using four commonly used movement assistance devices; stretcher, carry chair, evacuation chair and rescue sheet. Presented in the paper are performance results for both male and female assist teams, including device preparation time, horizontal speeds, vertical speeds and overtaking potential in stairwells. The data forms the basis of the device performance evaluation presented in the paper. With Covid-19, has evacuation and fire assessment processes been more difficult with government restrictions? During the pandemic this of course has been made all the more difficult. Evac+Chair have worked continuously taking every precaution possible to carry out our Evacuation Surveys in person or where this has not been possible, virtually. Ensuring that we can all escape in an emergency is vital whether in a pandemic or not. How do you ensure innovation in a continuously evolving market? Our biggest assets for continuous improvement are our customers and staff, we spend many hours listening to their views and particular issues which very often result in future enhancements, features and improvements to our range of chairs. We have been doing this for over 35 years’, we first produced an evacuation chair in 1982, the principle of which was invented by David Egan. The Evac+Chair was invented with the specific aim of helping to save the lives of disabled people in an emergency and has earned its place in the 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York for doing just that. David Egen designed the chair for his wife, who had polio as a child, after she had needed to be evacuated from the 38th floor of a building in Manhattan, New York. He realised the urgent need for a dedicated piece of lifesaving equipment for disabled people to enable them to be easily evacuated from tall buildings. He wanted to develop a hybrid of a cart, stretcher and chair that could go downstairs easily and be controlled by one person. How important is it for organisations to ensure that everybody in their building has the ability to escape successfully? Everyone should have the right to a safe exit from a building including the most vulnerable. Providing the most appropriate evacuation chair for a building environment is often not straightforward and so we recommend an evacuation chair site survey, this is something that we have been doing with our expert consultants, free of charge for more than 35 years. We would also recommend that every commercial

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