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Picture of Rescue Intellitech PPE drying cabinets - Photo by Rescue Intellitech - Fire Buyer

Rescue Intellitech launches specialist PPE drying cabinets for UK FRSs

News Desk, Technology /

Rescue Intellitech has launched advanced, dual-drying cabinets for PPE which will help fire and rescue services in the UK improve firefighter safety and operational efficiency. Many UK fire and rescue services, including Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and Avon Fire and Rescue Service, already use Rescue Intellitech’s highly acclaimed Solo Rescue or DeconWasher Pro S machines, which make the important process of cleaning equipment such as boots, gloves, helmets and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), safe, easy and effective. The new fast and efficient drying cabinets, which will be showcased at the Blue Light Show in London Olympia on 18 and 19 June, will further enhance firefighter safety by drying this critical PPE quickly, thoroughly and safely after washing. The dryers have been tried and tested across Europe and the US and are manufactured in Sweden for superior quality. Fire and rescue services can choose between two different sizes, the larger DC20 and the smaller DC8, to suit their requirements and space. Gentle and energy-efficient drying technology operates without mechanical action to prevent damage and help prolong the life of the kit. Both the interior and exterior of the PPE is dried simultaneously, so kit is quickly ready for use. The dryers can be specifically configured to accommodate bulky kit and specialised equipment. They also have automatic and manual programs, plus a preset start-time feature.  To ensure kit is ready to handle immediately after drying, programmes end with a ‘cool down’ mode. Martin Valfridsson, CEO of Rescue Intellitech, is excited to be expanding its offering in the UK and enhancing its range of PPE decontamination solutions for UK fire and rescue services: “Our mission is to help improve the health, safety and wellbeing of firefighters, by providing effective decontamination and drying equipment for SCBA, boots, gloves, helmets and masks. “With the introduction of drying cabinets to our product portfolio, we can now offer a suite of decontamination solutions for fire stations, demonstrating our commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. “The newly launched drying cabinets help minimise the health risks associated with damp kit. They are durable and efficient and make the PPE decontamination process quick and easy.” Contaminated PPE poses significant health risks due to lingering toxins, carcinogens, and pathogens. Rescue Intellitech’s range of PPE decontamination solutions help to clean equipment swiftly and effectively safeguarding firefighters from long-term health issues such as cancer and respiratory diseases. Nick Croad, Sales Manager for UK and Ireland, explains why Rescue Intellitech’s drying cabinets are a game changer for fire and rescue services. “Air drying PPE equipment is not efficient and often results in equipment being out of service for too long or firefighters having to use damp PPE, which isn’t good for their health. “The new drying cabinets are compact and very easy to install so can effortlessly be incorporated into existing fire and rescue services’ decontamination facilities. They dry PPE quickly and efficiently and are flexible to suit all drying needs – ideal for busy fire and rescue services striving to improve firefighter health and well-being.”

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Picture of ROCKWOOL factiry - Photo by ROCKWOOL - Fire Buyer

ROCKWOOL Invests in Global Fire-Stopping Hub

News Desk, Project News /

Insulation manufacturer ROCKWOOL has launched a new global centre of excellence for fire-stopping at Hams Hall, on the outskirts of Birmingham, where it will manufacture a new best-in-class range of products. Already well-known for its Euroclass A1 non-combustible stone wool insulation, this new multi-million pound investment builds ROCKWOOL’s in-house expertise on fire safety. ROCKWOOL’s new fire-stopping range, which is due to launch this summer, will include coated batt, sealants, collars, wraps, pillows and socket boxes. With state-of-the-art equipment, the facility will enable ROCKWOOL to manage the product line from conception to delivery, and support ongoing innovation and the pursuit of industry-leading performance and sustainability. Later this year, ROCKWOOL will also open a specialist training centre at the Hams Hall site to support partners in the construction industry. This will provide ROCKWOOL’s clients with the opportunity to experience product demonstrations, as well as having the chance to install ROCKWOOL’s fire-stopping, HVAC and fire protection products across a series of rigs set up to mirror a variety of common building applications. Visitors to the centre will be able to bank these learning sessions as credits towards their Continual Professional Development (CPD). This complements the company’s existing e-Learning platform for industry – ROCKWOOL Learning – which provides industry professionals with easy access to self-guided training modules, automatic CPD tracking and digital certification, all within a centralised hub for learning and development. As the industry continues to adapt to the changes brought in by the Building Safety Act, ROCKWOOL believes this emphasis on supporting industry skills and competence is critical for supporting building performance and public safety. To lead the centre of excellence as well as driving the company’s product and technical strategy across its full portfolio of services and solutions, ROCKWOOL is delighted to have hired industry expert Ben Peach, who has 20 years’ senior experience at the forefront of the UK’s fire-stopping industry. Ben, who has taken up the role of Product and Technical Solutions Director at ROCKWOOL Ltd, said: “I’m delighted to have joined ROCKWOOL at this critical time for fire safety in the UK. During my career, I have had the pleasure of working alongside the company and have seen first-hand the expertise and dedication across the team. Building on this with our new centre of excellence will support fire safety in the UK and further enhance ROCKWOOL’s ability to innovate and develop best-in-class products.” This latest investment follows ROCKWOOL’s recent announcement of a land purchase in Peddimore, north east of Birmingham, with the aim of creating an additional UK stone wool insulation production site. Nick Wilson, Managing Director of ROCKWOOL UK and Ireland, said: “Our new global centre of excellence heralds an exciting phase for ROCKWOOL. As well as furthering our ongoing commitment to industry best practice in fire safety, we are excited to be creating highly skilled jobs in this important sector. “During the past 45 years, we have built a strong foundation at our site in South Wales, where we continue to manufacture and invest for the long-term, and we’re excited about what the future holds as we expand and invest into the West Midlands.”

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Picture of firefighter wearing non-PFAS turnout gear - Photo by FIre-Dex - FIre Buyer

East Providence Firefighters Receive Non-PFAS Turnout Gear

News Desk, Technology /

The East Providence Fire Department has become the first in the United States to purchase and use non-PFAS turnout gear department-wide—an industry milestone achieved through a collaborative partnership with protective gear manufacturer Fire-Dex and textile innovator Milliken & Company. The gear, which includes Milliken Assure™—North America’s first non-PFAS, non-halogenated flame-resistant moisture barrier—was purchased as part of a $658,000 investment by the City of East Providence. The delivery of 170 sets of turnout gear will provide all 125 full-time firefighters with a new set of turnout gear. “This is about progress, partnership, and making deliberate decisions that reflect our department’s values,” said East Providence Fire Chief Michael Carey. “We’re proud to work with U.S. suppliers who share our vision and respond with innovation and accountability.” The decision comes amid growing momentum around PFAS alternatives in firefighting gear across the country, including H.B. 5019, a Rhode Island bill that was signed into law on June 10, 2025 that prohibits the use of intentionally added PFAS in firefighter turnout gear sold or used in the state. The ban goes into effect on January 1, 2027. “Fire-Dex and Milliken listened closely to what we wanted and worked with us every step of the way,” said East Providence Mayor Roberto DaSilva. “This gear delivery represents more than new uniforms—it represents a commitment to keep our firefighters protected when they put their lives in danger to keep our communities safe.” The transition marks the culmination of a co-led effort that began in early 2024. The result is a complete turnout gear solution that does not rely on fluorinated chemistry across any of its three protective layers: outer shell, thermal liner, and moisture barrier. While non-fluorinated fabrics have existed for outer shells and thermal liners, the moisture barrier has historically relied on fluorochemicals for repellency and pathogen resistance. The introduction of Assure™ in October 2024 made it possible for Fire-Dex to provide a solution where all three layers meet performance expectations without the use of PFAS chemistry. The gear went through rigorous performance and safety testing and is UL certified and meets the NFPA 1971-2018 standard. Fire-Dex has provided turnout gear to East Providence firefighters for more than 20 years, growing into a trusted partnership rooted in respect and responsiveness to support firefighter safety. Strengthening the value chain, Milliken and Fire-Dex have maintained a decade of strategic collaboration that delivers innovation and advancement through U.S. research and manufacturing.

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Fire-Dex Appoints New Chief Information Officer

News Desk, People News /

Fire-Dex has announced the appointment of Ben Pfahl as its Chief Information Officer (CIO), putting weight behind its promise to lead with tech, execute with excellence and grow with intention in shaping the next generation of gear designed to serve those who serve. As CIO, Pfahl will lead Fire-Dex’s enterprise technology strategy and oversee the Information Technology team as it aims to accelerate digital transformation, enhance data security and ensure seamless integration of business systems across Fire-Dex and its subsidiary Gear Wash. Pfahl brings over two decades of IT and digital leadership experience, most recently serving as Vice President of IT & Digitalisation and Regional CIO – Americas at global automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler Group. During his 21-year tenure, Pfahl led major technology transformation initiatives, implemented enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems such as SAP, and spearheaded cross-regional integration of IT operations across North and South America. “Ben’s appointment marks an important milestone as Fire-Dex continues to scale its operations and invest in forward-thinking solutions,” said Lauren Burke DeVere, President of Fire-Dex. “His track record of aligning technology with business strategy, leading high-performing teams and driving measurable results will be instrumental as we build the next generation of tools and services for our customers.” This leadership addition follows a period of meaningful executive transition at Fire-Dex. Earlier this year, longtime CEO Steve Allison announced his upcoming retirement, with Lauren Burke DeVere set to become CEO in 2026. At the same time, John Karban, current VP of Operations, will step into the role of President, bringing decades of operational expertise to the mix. Together with Pfahl, DeVere and Karban represent the next generation of Fire-Dex leadership that balances continuity, fresh perspective and the addition of a CIO role to accelerate innovation. “I’m honoured to join a mission-driven organization like Fire-Dex, whose values of protection, service and ingenuity strongly resonate with me,” said Pfahl. “I look forward to working alongside the executive team and our dedicated IT professionals to deliver solutions that support our people, partners and customers.” The appointment of a CIO further builds on Fire-Dex’s recent momentum in the digital space, including the launch of its Virtual Sizer. This AI-powered tool is the first to simplify the firefighter gear-fitting process by using a few simple inputs to generate a precise digital profile. For departments and dealers, less fumbling with tape measures and numbers means faster fittings, fewer sizing errors and a better experience for the wearer. Because Fire-Dex believes in tech with a mission: to put confidence in the hands of the people who need it most. With the CIO role now in place, the company is poised to accelerate this kind of forward-thinking development across the business. Pfahl holds an MBA from Ashland University and a bachelor’s degree in management information systems and international business from Bowling Green State University. He resides in Medina, Ohio, with his wife and three children, and volunteers as head coach of the Medina High School Girls Rugby Team.

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Product Spotlight – FFE

Exclusives, Technology /

Early, reliable fire detection is critical to protecting people, assets, and infrastructure in demanding settings – an evolving challenge that FFE continues to address globally. FFE has long been known for its specialist fire detection solutions, with products trusted in critical environments worldwide. With a refreshed brand identity and expanded product focus, the company is entering a bold new chapter. Managing Director Karl Westhead shares insight into FFE’s direction, innovation, and continued specialisation.   Can you briefly introduce yourself and your role at FFE?  I’m Karl Westhead, Managing Director at FFE since 2022. With over 18 years in the Halma group, including six years as an FFE customer, I have a deep understanding of our technologies and the industries we serve. My role is to drive strategic growth and innovation, ensuring we deliver reliable fire detection solutions that meet evolving customer needs.   What does FFE do and who uses your products?  We design and manufacture advanced fire detection systems – including beam smoke detectors, flame detectors, and linear heat detection. Our products are used across sectors where early, dependable detection is essential – from logistics and transport hubs to industrial sites, tunnels, and energy infrastructure.   What are your core product lines?   Fireray beam smoke detectors, which are ideal for wide, open indoor areas; Talentum flame detectors, designed for hazardous environments; Proreact linear heat detection, for continuous thermal monitoring; and Aspirating smoke detection, our latest addition, ideal for sensitive spaces such as data centres.   How do you ensure product performance?  Every solution is engineered around quality and real-world application. We collaborate with customers to understand their challenges and design solutions that are fit for purpose. Over the last three years, we’ve expanded our R&D team and increased investment in testing and certification to meet global standards.   Why did you update the FFE brand?  Our portfolio has evolved, and it was important our brand reflected this. While we’re well known for beam and flame detection, we now offer a broader range of technologies. The updated identity reinforces our mission and signals our ongoing focus on safety, performance, and innovation.   What’s been the response so far? Very positive. Customers welcome the clear positioning and updated look. It’s helped us strengthen relationships and opened the door to new opportunities. It also sets the tone for future product launches.   Where do you see change coming in fire detection?  We’re seeing demand driven by stricter regulations, sustainability goals, and the need for earlier, smarter detection. Technologies like thermal imaging, aspirating detection, and AI-based systems allow us to detect faster and reduce false alarms. Our investment in a Technical Engineering Centre of Excellence supports development in AI, MEMS, and advanced gas sensing to build connected, intelligent detection systems.   How are you tackling sustainability?  Sustainability is a core priority. We’ve achieved zero waste to landfill and use 100% renewable energy in our UK operations. We’re also targeting a 50% reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2030 and helping customers understand the carbon impact of their systems.  To read the full interview see our latest issue here.

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From the Expert – Stat-X

Exclusives, Technology /

Ultrasense from Fireaway, a new generation of fire protection combines early anomaly detection and advanced aerosol suppression to safeguard critical infrastructure from catastrophic loss. As the world evolves into a more technology-driven society, the production and management of electrical power and protection of information resources increasingly moves to the forefront of business and industry. Innovations in renewable energy, data centers, and power-handling equipment are being introduced at a pace never before seen. With all of these new technologies entering the landscape, the need to protect these mission-critical assets from fire is becoming readily apparent. Recent events have dramatically demonstrated that installations such as lithium-ion battery energy storage systems (BESS), data centers, and power-handling equipment are prone to anomalies which, if not quickly addressed, can lead to catastrophic events with devastating consequences. Companies using these assets have taken notice and want to take steps to mitigate the hazards. Status Quo Fire Protection When seeking a fire protection solution for vital infrastructure, the choices have been fairly static for years. The standard is typically a system that detects a fire and then activates a system to suppress it. While not necessarily a bad choice and imminently better than no protection, it is far from ideal. This is because for the system to operate implies that a fire has occurred and is actively damaging equipment before the fire suppression system activates to extinguish or contain the fire. Even with successful extinguishment, the operator is left with damaged gear needing to be repaired or replaced. This can lead to further indirect, but still substantial, losses such as downtime, loss of revenue, and reputational damage. Compounding the problem, after discharge, the fire suppression system is likely to be out of action until it is serviced. For many businesses, this approach has represented just about their only option—until now. Next Gen Fire Protection Working on the principle that it is better to prevent a fire than fight one, with its line of UltraSense™ sensors, Fireaway now offers companies the ideal outcome—a means to detect anomalies and take proactive steps to mitigate problems before a fire or outage occurs. Understanding that problems may escalate rapidly before preventative actions can be taken, Fireaway’s fire suppression product Stat-X®, a condensed aerosol firefighting agent, can rapidly discharge to suppress the fire and limit any associated damage. By combining early detection of problems with effective fire suppression, Fireaway provides the most comprehensive fire protection solution available for essential systems and equipment. Fireaway offers completely customisable systems with wide applications for wherever the protection of power and information components is required. While the equipment being monitored and protected is typically sensitive and delicate, UltraSense sensors and Stat-X systems are anything but. All are of robust construction designed for use in the harshest of environments and, once installed, require minimal interaction. UltraSense sensors meet American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards and contain UL-listed components. Stat-X units are UL and EN-UL listed and additionally are United States Coast Guard approved. This all translates into unmatched reliability and performance. To read the full article see our latest issue here.

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Feature Sponsor – IWMA

Exclusives, Technology /

As fire safety technologies evolve, how do water mist systems compare to traditional sprinklers? New UK data sheds light on performance, reliability, and real-world outcomes. When it comes to water-based fire extinguishing methods, there are sprinkler systems and water mist systems. Sprinkler systems have been around for over 100 years, whereas water mist systems – as we know them today – only arrived on the market about 35 years ago. Could this be why some still view water mist as a new technology? It’s worth highlighting that in the marine sector water mist has nearly a 100% market share with certain types of vessel. Many spend their holidays on cruise ships or work on container ships. On board ships, water mist makes a lot of sense, and there are few who dispute its value. On land, the story is quite different Although the technology has steadily gained traction, its adoption has been slower. That said, the list of applications has grown significantly over the years and now includes hospitals, cable tunnels, data centres, archives, and parking garages, to name just a few. All water mist systems which are installed have to undergo real-scale fire tests. Any system is always a bespoke system. Water mist systems have to perform equal to or better than sprinkler systems. But still, the discussion is on-going. Or is it about to end? Newly published UK fire statistics covering the years 2018 to 2024 confirm the high reliability of both water mist and sprinkler systems – while showing that water mist outperformed sprinklers in controlling and extinguishing real fires. Analysing over 4,000 fire incidents in England, the data from the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government shows water mist systems controlled fires in 95.3%  of cases and extinguished them in 58.6% – compared to 90.7% and 27.6%, respectively, for sprinklers. In residential settings, both systems performed strongly, with near-identical extinguishment rates (around 37% and control rates of 95.8% for mist and 91.4% for sprinklers. While extinguishment is not the primary design goal of most suppression systems – mist or sprinklers – these figures offer useful insights into their true effectiveness. “This confirms what professionals already know – well-designed suppression systems save lives,” said Max Lakkonen, President of the International Water Mist Association (IWMA). “Water mist’s edge in performance, combined with its low water usage, makes it a powerful fire safety solution.” Both technologies demonstrated high reliability, with system fault rates below 3% (2.9% for mist, 1.9% for sprinklers). Failures were mostly linked to fires starting outside the protected area or known faults. Systems installed in the fire’s room of origin were far more effective, underlining the importance of proper design and coverage. IWMA is further addressing reliability through updated guidelines and training initiatives focused on installation and maintenance quality. “This is good news for the entire fire protection sector,” added Lakkonen. “Both systems work. With smarter design and better training, performance will only keep improving.” IWMA remains committed to evidence-based fire safety and will continue supporting industry-wide improvements in system performance and standards. Referred data is publicly available from the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. To read the full article see our latest issue here.

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Magazine - ask the expert - Bridging Standards

Ask the Expert – Sensitron

Exclusives, Technology /

Marco Penso, R&D Manager at Sensitron, explores the evolving regulatory landscape, innovation challenges, and sustainability efforts shaping gas detection technologies. As the regulatory environment for gas detection systems becomes increasingly complex and globally interconnected, manufacturers must navigate evolving standards, growing safety expectations, and demands for innovation across diverse industrial sectors. In this context, Sensitron—a company specialising in the design and production of gas detection solutions—has positioned itself at the forefront of regulatory compliance and product development. Leading this charge is Marco Penso, R&D Manager at Sensitron since 2022. With over 20 years of experience in electronics development for safety-related systems, Penso oversees the design of gas detection technologies that serve high-risk and regulated environments. His role also encompasses responsibilities as an Ex Authorized Person, and he contributes to international standardisation efforts through his position in expert working groups focused on explosive atmospheres and gas detection protocols. In this exclusive interview, Penso discusses the multifaceted challenges of regulatory compliance, the impact of directives such as ATEX and IECEx, and how Sensitron ensures product conformity from concept to installation. He also explores the implications of emerging technologies, upcoming regulatory changes, and the growing influence of sustainability on product design—offering valuable insights into how manufacturers can balance innovation with robust adherence to safety standards. # To begin, how would you define the current regulatory framework governing gas detection systems in Europe and internationally? At present, there is considerable confusion and uncertainty, driven by several factors that are fundamentally reshaping the role of gas detection. These include evolving system requirements, its integration into increasingly complex solutions, and a growing interest in detecting a wider range of gases than in the past. The importance of gas detection is also increasing in environments where it was once considered secondary—such as small refrigeration systems. Originally viewed as an optional function to support system performance by limiting gas losses and minimising environmental impact, gas detection is now becoming essential. Today, the widespread use of flammable refrigerant gases has shifted the focus toward safety. This shift has led to overlaps among various standards, which are often interpreted and applied differently by specialists in each domain. Similarly, the rising significance of hydrogen detection—typically overseen by ISO experts as part of broader hydrogen management systems—risks conflicting with gas detection standards managed under the IEC framework. As a result, and due to the ongoing need to align European and international regulations where harmonised standards are still lacking, progress remains slow. Efforts are being made to establish links between experts from different technical backgrounds, fostering collaboration and coherence across disciplines. To read the full interview see our latest issue here.

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Drager

Dräger Showcase Lifesaving Lineup at Blue Light Show

Event News /

Dräger, an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology will be exhibiting at the Blue Light Show to showcase a wide range of technologies that support emergency responders to perform their critical roles safely and effectively. Taking centre stage will be Dräger’s next generation Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), the PSS AirBoss. The apparatus combines best in class ergonomics and an ultra-light design for optimal firefighter comfort and uncompromising safety. Dräger will also show how its FireGround accountability system enables teams to monitor, communicate and report incidents involving active SCBA users through its sophisticated Entry Control Board (ECB). Another important element to Dräger’s lineup is the UCF® FireCore hands-free thermal imaging camera which improves firefighters’ situational awareness by feeding live action imagery to Dräger’s FPS 7000 full face mask. The camera gives firefighters continuous vision in low-visibility, high-risk, and unfamiliar environments – this allows them to assess the situation and any potential hazards that may arise. The new lightweight HPS AquaRescue helmet will be on Dräger’s stand to demonstrate how its one-size-fits-all functionality balances comfort and protection in a range of marine and technical rescue operations. Also for the first time, Dräger’s FPS-COM Voice will be showcased to demonstrate how the mask-integrated, hands-free communication technology significantly improves voice communications. It is designed for emergency personnel wearing SCBA and full-face masks, where wearers have a reduced ability to communicate with team members. The device provides excellent voice quality by removing interfering sounds, and optimises voice capture and output. The communication unit is simple to use, easy to retrofit on the mask, and maintenance free. Dräger will also be showcasing its broad range of drug and alcohol testing equipment. The screening devices produce fast and reliable results, providing police with consistent and timely evidence to support effective and efficient testing procedures. Elizabeth Millward, Marketing Manager for Emergency and Rescue Services at Dräger, says the lineup is an exciting opportunity to showcase the breadth of Dräger’s expertise: “We are proud of our experience and long-standing heritage in supplying critical medical and safety technology to emergency responders. The show is a great opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to protecting, supporting, and saving lives through our designs. “Ultimately, supporting our emergency services to enter a situation prepared and protected means we can help ensure they return home safely after performing their essential duties.” Drager’s stand number is N30.

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Ask the Expert – F&G Detection

Exclusives, Technology /

Eliot Sizeland, Vice President of Business Development at Fire & Gas Detection Technologies Inc., discusses the challenges of flame detection in hangars. When it comes to safeguarding high-value aircraft and personnel, conventional fire detection systems often fall short in the unique and high-risk environments of aviation shelters. Hangars, in particular, pose a significant challenge for traditional optical flame detectors due to the presence of hot exhaust gases that can easily trigger false alarms. Recognising this gap in the market, Fire & Gas Detection Technologies Inc. (FGD) developed the FlameSpec CO2L—a breakthrough solution designed to eliminate false alarms without compromising response time. In this exclusive interview, International Fire Buyer speaks with Eliot Sizeland, Vice President of Business Development at Fire & Gas Detection Technologies (FGD), to discuss the technology behind the FlameSpec CO2L, the challenges it addresses, and the results of rigorous real-world testing in Southeast Asia. Sizeland shares insights into why precision detection is essential in hangar environments and how FGD is shaping the future of flame detection for military and commercial aviation facilities alike. What makes hangars such a challenge for traditional flame detectors? Hangars present a uniquely difficult environment for flame detection technologies. Unlike typical hangars where aircraft are towed or pushed into position, Hardened aircraft shelters (HAS) often use a ‘flow-through’ design, allowing aircraft to taxi in and out under their own power. This creates a setting where combustion gases from aviation fuel—particularly hot carbon dioxide (CO₂) emitted from exhaust plumes—can trigger false alarms in traditional infrared (IR) flame detectors. Standard triple infrared (IR3) flame detectors are designed to identify hydrocarbon fires by detecting IR emissions around the 4.5-micron wavelength, which corresponds to hot CO₂. While this makes them highly effective in most environments, it becomes a liability in settings like HAS, where non-fire sources of CO₂ are common. As a result, conventional detectors may struggle to differentiate between a real fire and the exhaust from a taxiing aircraft. The implications of false alarms in such mission-critical environments are significant. They can lead to unnecessary discharge of suppression systems, operational delays, and eroded trust in safety systems—all of which are unacceptable in high-security military and aviation operations. What limitations in industry standards prompted FGD to develop the FlameSpec CO2L detector? The turning point came from specific guidance within UFC 4-211-01, a document issued by the U.S. Department of Defence, which clearly stated that no commercial optical flame detector—including widely used models—was suitable for environments like HAS and aircraft refuelling shelters. The primary reason was the high probability of false alarms when exhaust gases were misidentified as fires. Rather than accept this as an industry limitation, Fire & Gas Detection Technologies (FGD) saw it as an opportunity to innovate. The result was the FlameSpec CO2L detector—a new IR3 flame detector specifically designed to filter out false positives caused by CO₂ plumes from aircraft exhausts. Its development was grounded in a substantial database of flame signatures recorded over time, allowing engineers to refine the spectral analysis algorithms that underpin the detector’s functionality. To read the full interview see our latest issue here.

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