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Interfacing of fire protection systems in commercial kitchens

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Interfacing of fire protection systems in commercial kitchens FIA Technical Manager, Rob Thilthorpe examines the importance of interfacing fire protection systems in commercial kitchens What you need to know Commercial kitchens can have a lot of fire hazards and risks than need to be minimised, which is why it may be necessary for various fire protection methods to integrate with other systems within the kitchen environment and the building in general.  These may include building management systems, kitchen extract fans, and fuel supplies (which often need to be shut off in the event of a fire). The key issue that often arises is that in this situation, it can be difficult to get all of the systems to connect.  This may be down to a number of reasons, such as fear of setting off the fire protection system when working on another system.  This could be fuelled by a lack of understanding blended with poor communication about both the relevance and importance of inter-connections between systems. In order to help solve the ‘whys’ and ‘hows’ of connecting the various systems, the Fire Industry Association teamed up with CEDA, another association whose members are specialists in design, projects and equipment for the foodservice, catering and hospitality industry. Collaboration between the FIA’s Services Council and CEDA lead to the creation of a helpful Guidance Note entitled ‘Interface between firefighting systems and other systems in commercial kitchens’, which details the definitions of key terms, the types of systems, how shut down functions should be used, relevant standards, and information about service and maintenance. The document will help anyone involved in the service and maintenance of systems within a commercial kitchen setting. Download now>> http://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/fia-guidance—interface-between-fire-fighting-systems-and-other-systems-in-commercial-kitchens-pdf.html Visit resources library>> https://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/searchResults/?q=

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The E2S GNEx GRP explosion proof signalling and call point family with global approvals

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The E2S GNEx GRP explosion proof signalling and call point family with global approvals E2S Warning Signals, the world’s leading independent signalling manufacturer, offers a comprehensive range hazardous location and explosion proof alarm horn sounders, Xenon strobes, LED beacons, loudspeakers, push buttons and call points. The GNEx family, which features GRP housings and sealing to IP66, is approved by IECEx and ATEX for Zone 1, 2, 21 and 22 use.   The visual signals in the GNEx family feature a 5, 10, 15 or 21 Joule Xenon strobe light source, giving an industry leading, effective intensity light output, of more than 900 cd for high ambient light or long-distance signalling. The LED variant contains a light source that has five flash rates: 1, 1.5, 2 Hz and double and triple flashes. High and low power steady modes for status indicator uses can also be user selected. The Cree® LEDs employed in the GNExB2LD2 beacon have a life of more than 60,000 hours. DC voltage versions feature three remotely selectable stages enabling multiple warnings to be signalled from one device. All the GNEx visual signals utilise a polycarbonate UV stable prismatic lens which are available in Amber, Blue, Clear, Green, Magenta, Red and Yellow and are field-replaceable. Installation time for both sounders and beacons is minimised as the GRP enclosure has a threaded flame path, multiple cable entries and a large termination area.   The alarm horn sounders have outputs up to 123dB(A) @ 1m, are available with either flared or radial horns, have 64 embedded tones, including the PFEER and major national tones, and offer four stages with the first two independently selectable. 15 and 25W loudspeaker versions are available in 8 Ohm, 16 Ohm and 70/100V Line versions for clear and powerful voice messaging in hazardous areas.   Designed for the manual activation of fire alarms, gas detection and emergency shutdown systems, the GNEx manual call points are available with break glass, push button and push button with tool reset operation, and a comprehensive range of standard accessories. Series and EOL resistors in a range of different values can be fitted to all models as required and DPDT switching and LED indicators can also be specified.   The GNEx family of signals provide the most comprehensive and robust solution for both onshore and offshore environments. Visit ww.e2s.com for further information.

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Arsonists spotted starting fires on Saddleworth Moor

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Arsonists spotted starting fires on Saddleworth Moor A police helicopter is understood to have spotted arsonists setting fresh fires on Saddleworth Moor close to where a large wildfire continues to burn. A group of people were reportedly seen starting fresh blazes at a grassland called Healey Nab, just four miles away from where firefighters are currently tackling a huge fire. Tony Crook, from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said the incident was “absolutely heart-breaking and unbelievable”. He also added that “police are now attending the scene to try to apprehend the arsonists”. The original wildfire in the area is still raging on after it began on Thursday. A major incident was declared on Saturday after high winds caused two fires to merge which led to more than 120 firefighters launching a large scale attack on the fire on Sunday. Authorities have warned pedestrians and motorists to stay away from the scene with people also being urged not to fly drones in the area due to the risk they pose to police helicopters. The Met Office has reported that no significant rain is forecast throughout the next week which will mean firefighters will be working in hot and dry conditions.

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Soldiers drafted in to assist firefighters on the ground at Saddleworth Moor, UK

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Soldiers drafted in to assist firefighters on the ground at Saddleworth Moor, UK Firefighters in Greater Manchester, UK, have been assisted by soldiers for a 48 hour period to help tackle the Saddleworth Moor fire that could rage “for weeks” to come. On the 28th June, close to 100 4th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland, troops were sent from their barracks in Catterick, North Yorkshire to assist firefighters on the ground. At this current moment in time, firefighters have the blaze under control, but the fire service have warned that it could flare up at any given moment. Jonathan Reynolds, the MP for Stalybridge, has heaped praise on the community for their “Blitz spirit” during a hugely difficult time. The blaze near Saddleworth Moor has spread across seven square miles in six different areas, and as such, military assistance was requested to take the fire on. Soldiers assisted by managing water lines and helping with the fire beating on the moorland, located just above Stalybridge. Local shops and residents have done all they can to assist the emergency services, by ensuring that they are both watered and fed. The fire has been hugely problematic for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), and have had to overcome a number of hurdles to get the situation into where it is now. Frequent wind direction changes have caused chaos, while the heavy concentration of flammable peat in the ground, and the tinder-dry foliage, has baked in searing temperatures. GMFRS also stated that the soldiers’ help will allow them to deal with other emergency calls.

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Comelit Fires Up New Division With FIA Membership

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Comelit Fires Up New Division With FIA Membership Comelit UK has become a member of the prominent Fire Industry Association (FIA) following the introduction of its new fire division, designed to complement its renowned security portfolio. The Italian door entry manufacturer, known for its high specification solutions, now offers a range of automatic fire detection systems, including conventional and addressable panels, that have proven successful across Europe. And pledging its commitment to the sector, Comelit has become a member of the FIA, as the largest fire protection trade association in the UK and influential in helping to promote and shape legislation and professional standards in the fire industry. Says Colin Smith, Fire Manager Comelit UK: “One of my first priorities in my new role was to ensure Comelit joined the FIA.  This was not only to cement our commitment to the fire industry but also define our position in alignment with an organisation that can set industry best practice, shape standards and influence legislation. “I am looking forward to attending the FIA networking events and conference opportunities, to raise awareness of our new fire division, and with an ability to present a portfolio of products that achieves the highest safety standards, without compromising on the style and aesthetic that is synonymous with the Comelit brand.” Comelit will now be able to present its membership of FIA with use of its logo on all printed and digital media; to demonstrate its dedication to an organisation associated with quality, credibility and raising industry standards. Kat Schabowska, Marketing Executive at Fire Industry Association added: “The FIA has a duty to inform the public about good practice. Employers in particular are often confused about their responsibilities, and it is our duty to provide the necessary guidance and requirements to achieve the standards. “We are delighted to welcome Comelit UK on board as it launches into the fire industry.  What this demonstrates is a commitment to offering products and services to the highest standards,  which achieve our strict membership criteria.  We look forward to working with Colin and the team.” To find out more about Comelit’s Fire Division, please visit https://www.comelitgroup.com/en-gb/ To find out more about the FIA and becoming a member, please visit www.fia.uk.com

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25 people injured following explosion at apartment building in Germany

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25 people injured following explosion at apartment building in Germany At least 25 people have been injured with four being described as “severely injured” after an explosion at an apartment building in Wuppertal, a Western city in Germany. Several fires broke out around the building following the fire with the efforts of firefighters frustrated as parts of the structure continued to collapse. Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise which prompted them to run out onto the street in panic, however some residents were trapped inside and were later rescued by firefighters. The Wuppertal police described the scene as a “picture of devastation” with large parts of the building’s façade crumbling onto the street. A police investigation has now been launched into the cause of the explosion with police refusing to comment on whether it was terror related.

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HAIX to showcase elite emergency services footwear range at ESS 2018

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HAIX to showcase elite emergency services footwear range at ESS 2018 Attendees of The Emergency Services Show 2018 will be searching for high specification safety footwear that supports them at work.  HAIX, global safety boot manufacturer, will be showcasing its latest innovations in emergency services footwear at this year’s show, stand L77. The HAIX tent will be exhibiting a range of exciting products, including the Airpower XR1, Black Eagle Safety 50, and Black Eagle Tactical 2.0 GTX; boots created for emergency services professionals, adaptable to various environments. For firefighters and the challenging conditions they continually encounter, the Fire Eagle Vario will be on display. The knowledgeable HAIX team will be on hand to answer any questions and advise visitors first hand. AIRPOWER XR1 With high-slip resistance and superior comfort, the Airpower XR1 is the ideal choice for rescue and emergency services professionals. The waterproof and breathable boots are designed to provide optimum levels of safety whilst offering the wearer comfort all day long. This high specification boot fulfils the requirements of safety category S3 and has an oil and petrol resistant sole, providing all terrain grip,  and a protective, composite toe cap with steel puncture resistant midsoles. The Airpower XR1 is also equipped with cutting edge GORE CROSSTECH® laminate technology, abrasion-resistant lining, Sun-Reflect system and essential bacteria protection. This prevents the safety boots from getting too hot and ensures they are suitable for all weathers; a vital feature for the emergency services sector. BLACK EAGLE SAFETY 50 MID The Black Eagle Safety 50 continuously exceeds expectations by performing well on different surfaces and environments; the ideal boot for paramedics or for use in fire stations. The moisture resistant and waterproof boot provides superior comfort with its well cushioned and anti-bacterial insoles, for all day support. The Black Eagle Safety 50’s extra light protective toe cap and rubber compound provides agility, durability and strong grip on different terrains; crucial for the police force. HAIX have also incorporated sophisticated fabric technology into the boot, including a breathable GORETEX® layer and HAIX Climate System, to deliver an excellent foot climate keeping feet fresh and cool. BLACK EAGLE TACTICAL 2.0 GTX HIGH The Black Eagle Tactical 2.0 black GTX is the ultimate police boot with weatherproof leather providing optimum comfort and protection to the wearer. The robust and extremely light shoe is ideal for police officers whose working day consists of long strenuous hours on their feet. The innovatively designed shoe is equipped with 2-layer PU midsole, with shock absorption eliminating any pressure on the joints and spine. The high specification shoe is also designed with fabric technology with a strong sole resistant to oil or petrol, GORE-TEX® technology and material isolated against the heat or cold. Features of the Black Eagle Tactical 2.0 black GTX also includes a special lacing system which moulds the shoe to the foot to avoid any pressure points or slipping and weatherproof properties which make these shoes effortlessly suitable for all weather. FIRE EAGLE VARIO The dynamic Fire Eagle Vario is the newcomer in slip-in design ideal for firefighters due to ease of application and remarkable protection. The safety features integrated into the boot ensures the boot is able to withstand gruelling environments, temperatures and all-weather conditions; making this work shoe the perfect aid for every firefighter. The fire safety boot, designed with low light reflective strips, has excellent wear-resistance and anti-slip properties effectively reducing user wear and tear, as well as maximising overall safety. Safety is further amplified through the steel puncture resistant midsoles which prevents nails or sharp objects penetrating the boot at the scene of the incident. The Fire Eagle Vario boot is also equipped with GORE CROSSTECH® 4-layer technology for watertight protection eliminating the risk of user infection. They are also crafted with optimal ankle support, shock absorption and moisture wicking cushioning to provide elite pressure relief and antibacterial protection. Representatives and attendees will be able to experience the innovative technology behind HAIX footwear at ESS 2018. When visiting the HAIX tent, attendees can witness first-hand HAIX’s technical expertise which exceeds safety standards and supports uniformed professionals throughout the emergency services sector. For more information, visit www.haix.co.uk/ems/ About HAIX® Based in Bavaria/Germany, HAIX® is a functional footwear specialist with a worldwide reputation as a “safe brand”. Wherever people need high performance footwear that will not let them down, HAIX® has become the brand of choice – in Europe, North America and Asia. At the company’s headquarters and main sales office, HAIX® has established dedicated R&D, design and marketing departments. In the high-tech research and test lab, HAIX® engineers develop new functional features and set new trends and standards for safety footwear. For the production of its top-quality functional boots, HAIX® operates factories in Germany and in Croatia where the company built one of the most modern shoe manufacturing plants in the world. The HAIX® Group has set up a sales office in Lexington, Kentucky (USA) and employs more than 1150 people all over the world. In 2016, the company produced more than one million pairs of boots, achieving a turnover of € 102 million. For more information, visit www.haix.com

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Hochiki Europe launches new sensors to ease legislation concerns

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Hochiki Europe launches new sensors to ease legislation concerns Hochiki Europe, the leading manufacturer of life safety systems, has launched a new range of innovative sensors which incorporate short circuit isolators (SCI). With the ability to identify and divert power from devices which have short circuited, the SCI-integrated range will benefit specifiers and consultants across Europe with ultra-efficient and cost-effective technology. In some parts of Europe, legislation dictates that when a device on a life safety system is changed, the network must also be fitted with another isolator simultaneously. By having short circuit isolator technology built into the actual devices rather than in an SCI base, Hochiki Europe’s new range offers a more efficient solution for specifiers and end-users, as additional bases don’t need to be purchased. The SCI sensor collection is a fully addressable range that includes a heat (ATJ-EN(SCI)) and multi sensor (ACC-EN(SCI)). The solutions provide end-users with real-time updates on performance, with LED status indicators clearly displaying when a sensor is polling, isolating, or in alarm. As well as SCI technology, Hochiki Europe’s new range features a number of additional benefits. The ATJ-EN (SCI) heat sensor, for example, combines both fixed temperature and rate of rise detectors for added reliability. To give specifiers a greater range of options when selecting life safety solutions, the ACC-EN (SCI) features user-selectable modes. This means the sensors can be programmed to allow either the optical or thermal element to be active when detecting a fire. The sensor can be programmed to use both elements at the same time. The SCI range will be enhanced further with the addition of a smoke sensor (ALN-EN), due to launch later this year. Paul Adams, Marketing Manager at Hochiki Europe commented: “When it comes to life safety solutions, we know our customers in Europe need products which have been designed with efficiency and dependability in mind.” “Our competitively-priced SCI sensors offer a reliable and efficient solution for specifiers and consultants, helping them meet legislative challenges and budget considerations. This launch is the latest step in our ongoing commitment to providing our customers with the most effective life safety technology.” Hochiki Europe’s SCI sensors are compatible with the company’s comprehensive enhanced systems protocol (ESP) intelligent range. This open protocol, supported by many leading control panel manufacturers, offers further reliability and compliance to the highest international standards. For more information on Hochiki Europe’s range of SCI sensors, and its ESP intelligent products, visit: www.hochikieurope.com/esp

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Kentec launches next generation Taktis fire panel for largest sites

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Kentec launches next generation Taktis fire panel for largest sites Kentec, the leading manufacturer of life-critical control systems, has launched the next generation of Taktis analogue addressable fire panel with an increased number of loops and enhanced integration and networking capabilities to meet the current and future needs of larger buildings and installations.   The Taktis 16L extends the current Taktis fire panel to 16 detection loops to provide up to 144 zone indications. It supports more than 2,000 detection devices and can network up to 128 panels, making it ideal for the largest sites such as schools, hospitals, multi-site retail/supermarkets, critical infrastructure and major commercial and industrial facilities.   Multiple protocols can be supported on each panel to give installers and end-users maximum choice in their systems’ design, and the scalable nature of the product provides the highest level of future-proofing and networking possibilities.   A key feature of the Taktis range, and continued with the Taktis 16L, is its ease of use. A 7” full colour resistive touch screen display and a clear, uncluttered intuitive user interface makes it easy to use even for those with minimal or no training, essential in the event of an emergency. The display can also be customised with client branding and logos.   Kevin Swann, Managing Diector of Kentec, says that the new generation panel is already being well received: “As a truly Open Protocol panel it offers installers and their customers maximum flexibility in systems’ design, site-customisation and in the third-party devices that they use.   “It also protects both their legacy and future investment since the panel is future proofed with a highly impressive road map of additional functions, features and integration possibilities.”   In terms of features, the Taktis 16L has four programmable sounder outputs, five programmable relays, and three programmable inputs. It also has 24 programmable soft ‘key functions’, and further connectivity is possible via a Media Gateway Card. The panel supports up to 45Ah batteries and a 10.25A power supply, and has a front-loading printer option.   EN-54-2/EN-54-4 certified, Taktis is designed with pan-European/international customers in mind and is currently available in numerous languages.   Kentec is an end-to-end manufacturer, with everything sold being made in the UK. It employs approximately 230 members of staff in its production facility, head office and research and development department. It has a global reach of 90 countries.  

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Grenfell…One year on

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Grenfell…One year on A ceremony was held on 14th June to mark the one-year anniversary of the Grenfell tower fire. Survivors and bereaved relatives came together on the streets surrounding Grenfell to remember the tragedy which claimed 72 lives. Many of the crowd were dressed in green which is the colour that has come to symbolise the tragedy and a minute’s silence was held across the nation as a mark of respect. The ceremony in North Kensington began with a voiceover saying: “Seventy-two people lost their lives who were our family, friends and community. We gather here today to remember them.” The names of all the victims were then read out by different members of the community. The skeleton of the Grenfell tower is still fenced off and covered in white scaffolding 12 months after the event. The walls around the area are now covered in handwritten tributes to the victims. The anniversary comes shortly after Dame Judith Hackitt announced her review into fire safety and building regulations. The Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety was announced by the UK government in July 2017 with Dame Judith Hackitt appointed to lead it. The purpose of the report was to make recommendations that will ensure a sufficiently robust regulatory system for the future and to make residents feel that the buildings they live in are safe and remain so. The report found that the current system of building regulations and fire safety is not fit for purpose and that a culture change is required to support the delivery of buildings that are safe, both now and in the future. This prompted Dame Hackitt to recommend that a new regulatory framework is introduced which will address the weaknesses in the current system. The new framework is designed to achieve three main results: create a more simple and effective mechanism for driving building safety, provide stronger oversight of dutyholders with incentives for the right behaviours and reassert the role of residents. The public inquiry into the tragedy will continue after this week’s commemorations have ended.

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