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PODAB celebrates 80 years

This year, PODAB celebrates 80 years as specialists in professional laundry equipment. To mark this milestone, the company is introducing a refreshed brand identity and an updated product design. With a modern and customer-centric visual profile, PODAB is aiming to further strengthen its position in the global market. “Reaching 80 years is a significant achievement for all of us at PODAB, and we are excited to continue our journey with a brand that reflects our growth and forward-thinking vision,” says Jimmy Nilsson, CEO of PODAB. “Our new identity is both modern and welcoming, allowing us to create a unified and strong brand for the future.” As part of the rebranding, PODAB has updated the design of its in-house manufactured drying cabinets to better align with the company’s other product lines and new visual identity. The updated design showcases PODAB’s commitment to quality and innovation while honouring the company’s Scandinavian heritage and dedication to sustainable solutions. In addition, PODAB is launching a completely redesigned website that prioritises the customer experience. The new site makes it easier than ever for customers and partners to explore PODAB’s products and services in an intuitive and user-friendly way. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Abu Dhabi takes a leap to build safer cities

With a steadfast commitment to protecting lives and shaping a safer future, Abu Dhabi is fast emerging as the regional epicenter of fire and life safety excellence. As the emirate intensifies efforts to upskill safety professionals and reinforce its emergency preparedness, it is setting a bold precedent for the wider Middle East. Supporting this ambitious vision, SIBCA, a leading provider of Fire, Life Safety, and ICT Solutions, has inaugurated Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Center in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Designed to serve as a hub for advanced learning and hands-on training, the new facility represents a major leap forward in strengthening the regional fire and life safety capabilities. The launch event was attended by Ibrahim Lari, Chairman and CEO of SIBCA; Michael Brunzell, NFPA Vice President of Global Business Development; Eng. Dana Kamal, NFPA MENA Director of International Business Development; alongside other distinguished partners and dignitaries. The new academy, officially recognized as an approved training center under the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) network, is designed to deliver internationally accredited training programs. These programs aim to empower fire and life safety professionals across the UAE with critical skills and up-to-date knowledge to safeguard lives and assets. Positioned as a future hub for fire education in the region, the academy will offer a wide range of NFPA-certified courses led by qualified instructors, covering essential topics such as fire protection systems, building integrity, electrical risks, and industrial risk management. Ibrahim Lari, Chairman & CEO of SIBCA celebrated the opening and thanked partners for their ongoing support: “We are honored to launch Trainovation, a significant milestone in our ongoing mission and commitment to strengthen the capabilities of fire and life safety professionals across the UAE and region I extend my sincere thanks to our partners at NFPA for designing the programs and Abu Dhabi Civil Defence for their continued support. Through world-class training, we aim to build a safer future for our communities by equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to protect lives and strengthen resilience across the nation.” Michael Brunzell, Vice President of Global Business Development at NFPA added: “We are delighted to welcome the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Center to the NFPA network of approved training facilities. As cities expand and industries grow more complex, the need for skilled fire and life safety professionals becomes increasingly essential. This new center in Abu Dhabi has been set to become a key resource for delivering high-caliber, customized training across the region. We applaud SIBCA’s commitment to raising the bar in safety education and are proud to support their efforts in fostering safer, more resilient communities.” Each course is carefully designed to align with both international NFPA standards and local UAE safety regulations, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and practical skills necessary to protect lives, property, and communities. The launch of the center comes at a time when the UAE is intensifying its focus on enhancing infrastructure and safety standards, with a growing priority on equipping professionals with skills aligned to international standards. As a certified NFPA training provider, Trainovation, through SIBCA, reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional leader in fire and safety education.

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C-TEC announces 5-year warranty on CAST-powered products

C-TEC has announced that all its CAST-powered products will have a new 5-year warranty from 1 May 2025. CAST (C-TEC Addressable System Technology) is C-TEC’s own proprietary life-safety system protocol. Hailed as the world’s most-advanced distributed intelligence fire alarm system protocol with features designed to facilitate fast installation, servicing, maintenance and operation, CAST powers all the manufacturer’s flagship systems. Hence the new warranty will cover not only its XFP and ZFP CAST addressable fire systems but its EVAC-ALERT BS 8629 evacuation alert system, its HUSH-PRO BS 5839-6 Grade C residential fire alarm systems and its new range of CAST-PRO combined detection and alarm devices.. Peter Butterworth, C-TEC’s Manufacturing Director said: “We are incredibly proud of our manufacturing capabilities and our continued investment in cutting-edge technology and third-party certification. The decision to offer a 5-year warranty on our CAST-powered systems stems from the confidence we have in our manufacturing process quality and employee expertise. Every single one of our products is designed, manufactured and tested here at C-TEC to give us complete control over our processes and give our customers the confidence that our systems will work seamlessly in any situation.” Added Charlotte Manley, C-TEC’s Sales Director: “Our CAST powered life-safety systems are proving to be a huge success not just in the UK but overseas too. The addition of a 5-year warranty across the entire range, combined with the EN54-13 system certification we have had on our XFP and ZFP CAST fire systems for some time, will hopefully provide the reassurance everyone in the supply chain needs that our systems are the right choice for multiple applications. Whatever the situation, CAST can help and I would urge anyone with an upcoming original project to get in touch as we have some very special project pricing available for first time CAST purchasers.” Established in 1981 and currently trading in over 80 countries, C-TEC is a UK manufacturer of world-class open-protocol fire detection and fire alarm system solutions for commercial and residential buildings. In addition to fire systems, the company also manufactures some of the UK’s most-respected call systems, disabled refuge systems and hearing loop systems. The 5-year warranty will apply to all CAST products manufactured after 1 May 2025.

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Vallfirest Inflatable Tank

Vallfirest presents its inflatable tank that optimises water supply for wildfire suppression. The product designed for both ground and aerial refilling  Ensuring a reliable water supply is one of the greatest challenges in wildfire suppression. In remote areas where access to natural water sources is limited, inflatable water tanks provide a strategic advantage. Their rapid deployment, high storage capacity, and mobility make them an essential tool for modern firefighting operations. Designed for both ground-based and aerial refilling, these tanks enhance operational efficiency, ensuring water is available where and when it is needed most.  The Only Inflatable Tank Designed to Withstand Bucket Impacts  When wildfires strike, resilience matters. Vallfirest Inflatable Tank is the first and only in the world specifically designed to handle large bucket loads and endure their impacts, ensuring unmatched durability and performance in real wildfire conditions. This unique capability makes it a game-changer for aerial firefighting, allowing helicopters to refill quickly and efficiently without compromising the integrity of the tank.  Rapid Deployment and Maximum Efficiency  Vallfirest Inflatable Tank provides on-demand water reserves where permanent infrastructure is unavailable. Its compact storage and ease of transportation make it an optimal solution for emergency response teams. Compared to rigid tanks, Vallfirest Inflatable Tank offers significant advantages in terms of weight, portability, and setup time. Built with high-strength PVC (2,600 g/m²) and a reinforced double-layer base, it ensures durability in extreme conditions.  Key Features and Specifications:  Capacities: Available in 7,000 L (1,850 gal), 12,000 L (3,170 gal), 25,000 L (6,600 gal), and 56,000 L (14,800 gal).  Deployment Time: Fully operational in 1.5 to 4 minutes  Operational Features: Two 3″ BSP fittings with plastic 3″ Male Camlock (type F) connectors with caps for efficient filling and draining.  Portability: Lightweight and compact, with a transport bag included for easy handling.  Handling: Equipped with 4 reinforced perimeter handles for safe movement and positioning.  Anchoring Points: 6 to 8 perimeter metal rings, ensuring stability in challenging terrain.  Enhancing Firefighting Operations:  Inflatable tanks are a key component in wildfire response strategies:  Ground-Based Firefighting: Acts as a water reservoir for hose lines, portable pumps, and suppression efforts.  Aerial Firefighting Support: Positioned for rapid helicopter bucket refilling, ensuring continuous drops.  Water Relay and Tactical Staging: Used as intermediate storage points, improving coordination between water sources and mobile units.  Strategic placement near fire perimeters, base camps, or high-risk zones ensures water availability where it is needed most.  Why Fire Departments Choose Vallfirest Inflatable Tank:  Durability in Extreme Conditions – Built with reinforced UV-resistant materials to withstand harsh environments.  Fast Setup and Logistics Efficiency – Deployable in minutes.  Lightweight and Portable – Easier to transport and store than metal-frame tanks.  Customisable Configurations – Multiple sizes for different suppression needs.  Optional Accessories – Metallic 3” Camlock valve, 3” Storz 75-B valve, Camlock-Storz 75-B converter.  Smarter Water Storage for Wildfire Suppression  As wildfires become more intense, ensuring a reliable water supply is critical. Vallfirest Inflatable Tank offers a modern, adaptable solution for maintaining water availability in remote and high-risk zones. With a focus on innovation and real-world performance, Vallfirest continues to develop advanced water storage solutions that enhance mobility, efficiency, and preparedness. By integrating inflatable tanks into fire response strategies, agencies can improve operational effectiveness, protecting communities and natural resources.  To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Cutting-Edge PPE Drying Methods

Proper cleaning and drying of personal protective equipment are crucial for safeguarding firefighters. Traditional air-drying methods are inefficient   PODAB’s innovative drying cabinets, specifically developed for PPE and SCBA, offer safe and efficient solutions. These cabinets address key concerns with conventional drying methods by utilising specialised technology to ensure thorough and safe drying of firefighting gear, thereby minimising the risk of contamination.  Redefining Firefighter Gear Care  PODAB’s PPE drying cabinet, the ProLine FC20, represents a significant advancement in firefighter equipment maintenance. Equipped with specially designed hangers, it engages in a dual drying process that gently and simultaneously dries PPE from both the inside and outside.   The ProLine FC20 offers maximum flexibility with versatile drying options and a customisable interior. The unique PPE hangers can be replaced with glove and boot attachments, adapting to firefighting professionals’ specific needs. It can efficiently dry up to six PPE suits simultaneously, maintaining structural integrity thanks to its gentle drying process. Door-mounted hook racks provide additional options for drying smaller accessories, enhancing the cabinet’s adaptability to various equipment types.  The Ultimate PPE Drying Kit  The ProLine TS63 E complements the FC20 by providing a versatile interior tailored to diverse drying requirements. The ventilated shelves offer ideal space for drying helmets, boots, hoses, gloves, and masks, with an option to accommodate a single bar for drying gear using hooks or hangers. This adaptable design ensures maximum flexibility, meeting specific PPE and SCBA drying needs effortlessly.  Together, these drying cabinets provide a streamlined solution for safe and efficient PPE drying in fire stations. The FC20 can dry up to six firefighting suits or a combination of suits, boots, and gloves, while the TS63 E efficiently dries other accessories and textiles, including helmets, hoses, masks, and jackets. Combined, they ensure every piece of firefighting gear is thoroughly dried and ready for duty.  Highlighting PODAB’s commitment to safety and compliance, the ProLine FC20 and ProLine TS63 E are NFPA 1951 compliant, assuring users of the cabinets’ reliability and suitability for critical firefighting operations.  Innovative Technology and Effortless Operation  PODAB’s cutting-edge drying cabinets feature a smart air circulation system that intelligently reuses existing air, enhancing energy efficiency by minimising the need for new air. The elimination of mechanical action in the drying process not only contributes to energy savings but also ensures quieter operation and reduces wear on both the appliance and textiles. User-friendly controls and seamless program selection simplify operation, making these cabinets accessible and efficient for users across various industries. Designed with ergonomics in mind, the ProLine series includes a clean display panel and easy-to-navigate preset programs. Large doors facilitate easy loading and unloading, and various preset automatic drying programs offer both fast and gentle options to suit nearly all drying needs.  Maintenance-Free and Gentle Drying  PODAB drying cabinets require minimal maintenance, significantly reducing overall costs. Operating without mechanical action eliminates the need for a lint filter, further reducing maintenance requirements. Utilising electrically heated air, these cabinets reduce energy consumption and costs. By drying without mechanical action, ProLine cabinets provide gentle drying without friction, prolonging textiles’ lifespan. The controlled and consistent drying environment is achieved through efficient heat and air circulation. Tests indicate that textiles dried without mechanical action experience 64% less wear and tear compared to those dried with mechanical action, making the ProLine series an essential solution for maintaining the effectiveness and longevity of PPE.  Find out more: podab.com  To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Sabrina Cohen-Hatton appointed as new Chief Fire Officer

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton has been appointed as the new Chief Fire Officer to lead Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, becoming the organisation’s first female chief. Set to start her new role later this year following a handover period with current Chief Fire Officer, Neil Odin, Sabrina joins us from her position as chief of the neighbouring fire service in West Sussex. Sabrina, who has previously held senior fire service roles with London Fire Brigade and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service prior to joining West Sussex in 2019, was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal for distinguished service and gallantry in the 2023 Birthday Honours. Speaking of her appointment, Sabrina said: “I am truly honoured to have been appointed to lead Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and am incredibly excited to begin this new role to ensure that the Service continues to deliver for the residents of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. “I would like to formally put on record my thanks to the Service’s current Chief Fire Officer, Neil Odin, who I have been privileged to work alongside for many years. I know that his time leading the Service will leave a lasting legacy that I will work with to ensure that residents in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are kept safe from the risk of fire and emergencies. “I am incredibly proud of the time that I spent at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, where I was equally as privileged to work with some incredible people as we worked together to deliver the Service’s improvement plan. It is with a heavy heart that I leave the Service, but know that I am leaving the Service in safe hands and I take with me many fond memories and friendships. “I am very much looking forward to working with all colleagues at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service to uphold all of the fantastic work that all of its teams deliver each and every day to keep the residents living and working in its communities safe.” Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire Authority Chairman, Cllr Rhydian Vaughan MBE said: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Sabrina as our new chief fire officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight. “The role of chief fire officer is one of huge responsibility, and following our rigorous recruitment process, I am certain Sabrina is the right person to lead us forward.” “I am very much looking forward to welcoming Sabrina when she formally joins us later this year. As a fire authority we look forward to working with her and to support her in being at the helm of this incredible organisation.” Sabrina joined South Wales Fire and Rescue at 18-years-old in 2001 after experiencing homelessness from the age of 15. Selling the Big Issue, she developed a curiosity to serve in the fire service in the hope of being able to help people when they needed it most. As well as being an ambassador for The Big Issue, she is also an advocate of Prince William’s Homewards foundation, and during her time at South Wales, led a partnership of uniformed youth groups of which HRH King Charles (then The Prince of Wales) was patron. In her time working in the fire sector, Sabrina has completed numerous secondments, including to the Welsh Government, HMICFRS, interim Deputy Chief Fire Officer in Surrey and currently serves as the NFCC’s Improvement Chair and National Lead for Working Dogs. Alongside serving, Sabrina has studied psychology at both the Open University and Cardiff University, completing a PhD in Behavioural Neuroscience, and has since been awarded numerous honorary doctorates. As well being a published author, her research into the decision-making of incident commanders has received many academic accolades and influenced policy change across the world. In 2015 Sabrina was appointed as a Deputy Assistant Commissioner in London Fire Brigade, where she was a commander in the response to several significant incidents, including the Westminster Bridge and Finsbury Park terror attacks, and in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire. Following a 34-year career in the fire service, Neil Odin is due to retire after more than seven years in the top job. Neil said: “As well as her commendable and notable professional successes over more than two decades, I have also had the privilege of working with Sabrina for many years. Embodying our Service Values, Sabrina will bring a fresh outlook, strong leadership skills, and invaluable experience, ensuring the Service continues to adapt, improve and thrive. I know that she will find Hampshire and Isle of Wight a great place to work, and receive a warm welcome from the staff, partners and communities.” To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Flow Fire Protection completes first US installation

Flow Fire Protection, a fire safety company based in Colorado, has made history by completing the first-ever US installation of Plumis’ Automist system which recently achieved UL Certification. The innovative water mist fire suppression system was installed in an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on a private property in Boulder, Colorado, owned by Ian Williamson. This milestone installation marks the next stage of Plumis’ expansion into the US market and comes after Automist received its prestigious certification from UL, a critical step in meeting the rigorous safety standards required in the United States. Automist is a water mist fire suppression system that is designed to activate more quickly than traditional sprinklers, using significantly less water to reduce potential property damage. Its unique technology means that is the only system of its kind for the home, that can target fires directly at their source. Designed to integrate seamlessly into modern homes, Automist provides an ideal solution for projects requiring efficient, non-invasive fire protection. Its discreet wall-mounted spray heads minimise disruption during installation and maintain the aesthetic appeal of modern properties. The location of Ian’s ADU posed challenges for traditional sprinklers, including high costs for connecting to the main water supply and invasive installation requirements due to spray foam insulation and structural beams. Automist provided a seamless and cost-effective alternative, highlighting its potential to address modern fire safety challenges in the US. Brannan Fix, the lead installer on the project, said: “Automist was a perfect fit for this project. It allowed us to avoid drilling into structural beams, simplified the installation, and preserved the ADU’s design. It’s great to work with a system that offers such a modern and effective solution.” Ian Williamson, the homeowner, commented: “I wanted a fire protection system that didn’t compromise the look and feel of my home while ensuring the safety of my family. Automist exceeded my expectations – it’s unobtrusive, innovative, and gives me peace of mind.” William Makant, CEO of Plumis, added: “UL Certification represents a significant achievement for Automist and paves the way for its adoption in the US market. We are excited to see our technology now being used to protect lives and homes in the United States, following its success in the UK.” To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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Fireaway’s Stat-X Expands Sales Opportunities in Europe

Fireaway Inc. is proud to announce that its Stat-X electrically operated fire suppression generator product line has received UL-EU certification from UL Solutions to the EN 15276-1 standard—marking a significant milestone in safety, performance, and global market access. Achieving compliance with stringent international standards like EN 15276-1 demonstrates Fireaway’s unwavering commitment to technical excellence and regulatory rigor. “This certification is a testament to our team’s relentless pursuit of quality, safety, and innovation. Meeting the EN 15276-1 standard through UL Solutions not only validates our technology—it strengthens our promise to customers worldwide who rely on Stat-X for critical fire suppression needs,” says Lance Harry, P.E., President and CEO of Fireaway. “While many fire suppression systems claim efficacy, only those that meet the most demanding third-party testing benchmarks earn this level of recognition. UL Solutions is proud to support efforts in delivering trusted fire suppression solutions to the global market,” says Karine Johnfroe, vice president and general manager of the Built Environment group at UL Solutions. The Significance of EN 15276-1 Certification EN 15276-1 is the European standard governing the design, testing, and performance of condensed aerosol fire suppression systems. Certification validates that a system can reliably suppress Class A, Class B, and Class C fires while ensuring safety for both humans and the environment. For Stat-X, this certification brings: Expanded global market access: Compliance with EN standards facilitates entry into Europe’s multi-billion-euro fire suppression market. Enhanced industry credibility: Neutral, third-party validation reinforces the performance safety claims of Stat-X systems. Competitive differentiation: Stat-X is currently the only aerosol system worldwide to achieve this certification through the globally recognized processes of UL Solutions. This new certification meets existing customer demands while unlocking additional sales opportunities for our European distributor partners across a range of commercial and industrial applications. Some of our top performing distributors and customers specifically requested this approval to support projects that require EN certification, empowering them to further expand their market presence. Although the approved generators retain the same core functionality as our current Stat-X product line, this new designation affirms our ongoing commitment to innovation and adaptability in the face of evolving industry standards. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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STI Launches G3 and GF Multipurpose Push Buttons Across EMEA

Safety Technology International (STI) has announced the EMEA launch of its latest innovation: the G3 and GF Multipurpose Push Button Series. Initially unveiled at Intersec in early 2025, the launch has generated widespread interest across the Middle East, with major infrastructure projects, such as airports and sports stadiums, among the early adopters. These push buttons mark a significant advancement in fire safety, access control and intrusion detection. Uniting robust physical activation with optional integrated surveillance, the series is tailored to help reduce false activations, deter misuse and enhance on-site accountability. Already successfully introduced in the United States, the G3 and GF series is now available to customers globally. A defining feature of the new series is the industry-first optional built-in IP camera, this innovation enables real-time visual identification of individuals interacting with the device. Unlike traditional overhead CCTV, the G3’s eye-level capture provides face-on footage of each activation, overcoming common obstructions like hoods or caps. Footage is captured before, during and after activation, providing crucial evidence for facility managers and security teams. Particularly in high-traffic environments where repeated false activations are a costly problem, this added layer of visual accountability helps deter misuse and supports more informed incident management. STI’s Head of Marketing & Product Management, Sibtain Naqvi, said: “We designed these buttons not just to perform a function, but to address a real issue in the industry: the growing challenge of malicious activations and alarm fatigue. The optional camera delivers an immediate step-change in accountability and deterrence.” Constructed from impact-resistant polycarbonate, the devices are highly durable and built for reliability in demanding settings. The G3 series is intended for general use in access control and security systems, while the GF is purpose-built for fire alarm integration. Both feature a range of operational configurations, including Momentary, Key-to-Reset and Turn-to-Reset, with optional protective covers available with or without a built-in sounder. These covers offer added protection and are aligned with the recommendations of BS 5839-1:2017, which advocates for the use of protective covers to reduce false fire alarms. The G3 is also available in a choice of colours and with customisable text options, allowing it to be tailored to different applications or site protocols. The GF model has been UL-listed, ensuring compliance with stringent global fire safety standards. This certification has proven especially important in the Middle East market, where adherence to UL requirements is a standard. The product has already been met with enthusiasm by fire and security professionals in the region, with Intersec attendees praising the device’s ability to strengthen fire alarm systems and reduce call point misuse. The G3 and GF push buttons each offer a high-performance contact switch—DPDT (2 Form C) in the G3, SPDT (Form C) in the GF—rated at 30 VAC/VDC and 5 A. The optional IP camera offers a 180-degree diagonal field of view and supports up to 5MP HD resolution at 30 frames per second, powered via 12VDC. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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ROCKWOOL secures initial approval for West Midlands manufacturing facility

ROCKWOOL has secured approval for its first planning submission for a new manufacturing facility that would support hundreds of jobs in the West Midlands. The leading global non-combustible insulation manufacturer ROCKWOOL submitted a Section 73 application to Birmingham City Council requesting permission to vary some of the details in the current planning permission for the Peddimore site, north east of Birmingham. Now approval has been secured, ROCKWOOL plans to submit a more detailed Reserved Matters application later in 2025 or early 2026, which will provide specifics about the design of the facility. If the Reserved Matters application is approved, construction could begin later in 2026 with the facility becoming operational in 2029. ROCKWOOL, which has operated from South Wales since 1979, has strong foundations in the UK and the Peddimore facility would be the company’s second local site, supporting hundreds of construction jobs and creating new, long-term skilled roles. The proposed state-of-the-art insulation manufacturing facility would boost supply capacity for UK and Republic of Ireland customers, whilst also supporting the company’s ambitious global sustainability plans. Engaging with the local community Since plans for the new facility were announced in November 2024, ROCKWOOL has carried out the first phase of a community engagement programme to share initial information and listen to feedback. ROCKWOOL plans to carry out a second phase of engagement once more detailed plans and designs have been developed. Information about the plans is available to view at www.rockwool.com/uk/peddimore and will be updated as the proposal develops. Nick Wilson, Managing Director of ROCKWOOL UK & Ireland, said: “We are very pleased to have received approval for our Section 73 application and look forward to developing the plans further and sharing them with the community in the months ahead. “We are grateful to everyone who took the time to provide feedback on our initial plans, which we will be considering as we progress. The West Midlands has a skilled, local workforce, a strong manufacturing tradition, and excellent transport links, so we believe the Peddimore site is an ideal location for us to expand our business and bolster our service to customers across the UK and Ireland.” To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@firebuyer.com

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