FME Issue 66

firemiddleeastmag.com

ISSUE 66

JULY 2025 THE MAGAZINE FOR FIRE PREVENTION, FIREFIGHTING & RESCUE

FORGING FIRE PARTNERSHIPS: REACTON AND AL ASWAD UNITE The Fire Middle East Conference served as a powerful platform for forging connections in the sector

CONTACT US EDITORIAL Publisher Mike Dingle +44 1752 267330 mike@firemiddleeast.co.uk

Editor Cora Lydon +44 7834 244613 editor@firemiddleeast.co.uk

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PUBLISHED BY MDC Middle East Ltd +44 (0)1752 267 330 6 Woodside Lane, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8QE, UK This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the written consent of the publishers. ©MDC Middle East Ltd. 2025 For subscriptions and advertising enquires, or for further information on the magazine visit our website at: firemiddleeastmag.com

INSIDER’S VIEW Hello and welcome to a packed new issue of Fire Middle East magazine! We’re thrilled to bring you extensive coverage from the recent Fire Middle East Conference (from page 17), an event that truly delivered on its promise to delegates. Throughout the conference we saw incredible opportunities for networking, invaluable sessions focused on education and vital discussions dedicated to future-proofing our industry. In fact, you’ll see a powerful example of this synergy right on our front cover, highlighting the significant connection forged between Reacton and Al Aswad.

This issue dives deeper into just some of the critical topics that are shaping fire and life safety in the region. We explore the essential role of fire and life safety audits in data centres, a rapidly growing sector with unique challenges (turn to page 28).

With the 2024 edition of the Saudi Building

Code becoming mandatory at the end of June 2025, we also provide a crucial look at SBC 201 and SBC 801, detailing what these updates mean for fire safety across Saudi Arabia (over on page 48). Finally, we bring you an insightful feature on smoke control and its paramount importance in being seamlessly integrated with building fire alarm systems (take a look over on page 32).

We hope you find this issue informative and engaging.

Cora Lydon Editor editor@firemiddleeast.co.uk firemiddleeast Fire Middle East Magazine

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 3

CONTENTS REGULARS 03 Up front

Foreword from the Editor

07 Regional news

The latest regional fire safety and protection news

ISSUE 66 JULY 2025

28 Fireproof your digital core

As the digital backbone of our world continues to expand, the stakes for protecting critical data infrastructure from the devastating impact of fire have never been higher, says Roy Savio Fernandes, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy

36

55

11 International news

Fire-related news and advancements from around the globe

12 Product showcase

Find out about some of the newest products to reach the market

FEATURES 17 The golden thread

Bob Rea shares his personal reflections on his experience of Chairing the Fire Middle East Conference in Riyadh in May

22 Fire Middle East Conference

The Fire Middle East Conference was a resounding success for all of our speakers, sponsors and attendees and has played a vital role in igniting the path to a safer future

52

32 Where there’s smoke, there’s a solution

Yasser Amer Ahmed, a Fire Protection Specialist and Registered Fire Protection Consultant, explores the fundamentals of smoke control

36 Minimising risk

Jesper Olavi, Global Product Manager at Axis Communications, looks at how smart surveillance and explosion-protected cameras can transform hazardous areas

50

39 Data-driven defence

The ability to harness data is transforming Middle East airport fire safety from reactive response to predictive protection. Fire Middle East takes a closer look

48 Building safer futures

On 30 June 2025, the new 2024 edition of the Saudi Building Code (SBC) became mandatory. Peter Stephenson, fire safety solutions expert, explores what SBC 201 and SBC 801 mean for fire and life safety in Saudi Arabia

28 4 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

THIS ISSUE’S PARTNERS & CONTRIBUTORS

32

Roy Savio Fernandes

International Projects Director, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy

Roy Savio Fernandes’ areas of expertise include FLS code consulting, subject matter expert on NFPA 72 and FLS audits. He is currently supporting several giga projects in the region.

Yasser Amer Ahmed

Fire Protection Specialist & Consultant Engineer

50 Strengthening emergency response

Peter Stephenson looks at how emergency response in the region can be strengthened by integrating it with NFPA 1710 and Saudi Arabia’s private firefighting regulations

52 Delivering water where it is needed

Len Swantek, Director of Global Regulatory Compliance at Victaulic, explores sprinkler fitting connections and the attributes that impact the amount of water available at each sprinkler

Yasser Amer Ahmed has a diversified experience in the design, design review and coordination of fire protection installations and systems including for mixed-use complexes, residential and commercial towers, airport facilities and more.

Bob Rea

Director, BR Training Solutions

Bob Rea, QFSM, MBA, MIFireE, MInstLM, TechIOSH, is a recognised and globally respected experienced emergency response professional with over 40 years of experience. He recently expertly chaired the Fire Middle East Conference.

Sponsors & Supporters

56 Intersec Saudi Arabia preview Find out more about the forthcoming Intersec Saudi Arabia exhibition

58 Stats reveal efficacy of water mist systems

The International Water Mist Association shares important news about the efficacy of water mist systems for fire suppression

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REGIONAL NEWS

NFPA CELEBRATES ACHIEVEMENTS The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recognised outstanding achievements in fire, electrical and life safety during its Stars at Night awards gala. Amongst the recipients were: Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority – 2025 NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award: for its system-wide commitment to fire and life safety, resulting in measurable improvements in public safety across the United Arab Emirates.

Shmuel Netanel of Israel – 2025 NFPA Distinguished Service Award: for his decades of leadership, engineering innovation and successful advancement of NFPA codes and standards throughout the Middle East.

International standards

MOU SIGNING

A new testing and certification programme for battery containment enclosures, including battery charging or storage cabinets, has been launched by UL Solutions to address growing concerns about the hazards of Lithium-Ion batteries for e-bikes.

These tests, per UL 1487, evaluate a battery containment enclosure’s ability to withstand battery thermal runaway

At the 10th UAE Fire and Safety Forum held under the patronage of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chief of Police and General Security in Dubai, and Chairman of the Emirates Association for the Talented, and organised by the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed. This MoU, signed by the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense, the Emirates Association for the Talented, and NAFFCO, reflects the parties’ shared commitment to strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovation, reinforcing innovation as a cultural value, as it aligns with the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense’s vision to make Dubai the world’s leading city in safeguarding lives and property. The MoU also aims to empower and support talented individuals in the fields of safety and prevention.

events, including fire, explosion and shrapnel. UL Solutions also evaluates and tests micromobility charging equipment per UL 4900, the Standard for Micromobility Charging Equipment.

Firefighting drone unveiled As part of the UAE pavilion at Expo 2025 in Japan, Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority unveiled Suhail, the world’s first jetpowered firefighting drone, a significant UAE innovation that anticipates the future of smart and safe emergency response.

The drone, equipped with smart systems, allows access to hotspots that cannot be reached manually, and enhances the speed and effectiveness of fire response.

The Suhail drone represents a UAE breakthrough as the world’s first jetpowered unmanned aircraft designed exclusively for firefighting operations.

It features cutting-edge computer

vision and LiDAR-based 3D scanning for precise mapping, target detection and obstacle avoidance and is equipped with integrated smart systems that enable vertical flight, precise manoeuvring and efficient performance in difficult conditions.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 7

REGIONAL NEWS

Collaboration for Dubai ENOC Group and DP World have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance emergency and fire response capabilities across Dubai’s key energy and logistics infrastructure. The MoU mandates an annual joint exercise to enhance training, preparedness and response times, spearheaded by ENOC and DP World’s emergency teams. It also outlines regular updates to emergency response plans and a shared protocol for engaging external parties to ensure swift and coordinated action.

Lithium-Ion Fire Programme The Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Test and Training Programme, organised under the coordination of the Union of Municipalities of Türkiye, was held in Istanbul. The aim was to better prepare firefighters for fires that may be caused by Lithium-Ion batteries.

The programme was planned in two stages, theoretical and practical, covering the causes of Lithium-Ion battery-related fires, the risks they may pose, intervention methods and new generation fire extinguishing agents as part of the event. In the application area, real fire tests conducted with the developed extinguishing agents were carefully monitored.

Reducing wildfires The National Centre for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has completed a study to explore enhancing forest protection and reducing wildfire risks in support of environmental sustainability goals.

‘Forest Fire Prevention and PostFire Recovery in the Southern and Southwestern Regions of Saudi Arabia’ was conducted in collaboration with King Khalid University and Monash University in Australia.

It includes an assessment of forest conditions and risk factors, the development of a digital database, and

a review of preventive measures and community practices. The study proposes an integrated response plan involving relevant agencies, with defined roles and the use of modern tools, such as early warning systems and drones.

It also offers field designs and sustainable alternatives for strategic firebreaks, a post-fire recovery guide, a performance evaluation tool, and a framework for joint operations, and reflects Saudi Arabia’s efforts to preserve natural resources and address climate-related challenges while balancing development with ecosystem conservation.

PRAISE FOR EMERGENCY TEAMS During a reception at the Ruler’s Office, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, affirmed that crises and emergencies serve as a true test of the high readiness and excellence of national teams. Their quick preparedness and effective response played a crucial role in preventing human casualties and reducing environmental, technical and infrastructural damage during the recent fire at Al Hamriyah Port.

At the end of the event the Crown Prince recognised the organisations involved in the fire response efforts and conveyed his sincere gratitude to all individuals for their contributions.

Fire extinguished Specialised teams were able to evacuate 764 apartments, with 3,820 residents being led to safety, when a fire in the 67-storey Marina Pinnacle Tower broke out. Firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze within six hours.

The relevant authorities coordinated with the building’s developers to provide temporary housing to the affected residents.

8 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS INDIA

CANADA The ongoing 2025 Canadian wildfire season has erupted into a devastating crisis that highlights the failure of finding solutions to protect working people from the worsening impacts of climate change.

At least 33,400 people have been forced to evacuate their homes across three provinces, with two residents confirmed dead in the small town of Lac du Bonnet, northeast of Winnipeg, marking the first civilian casualties from wildfires in Manitoba’s recent history.

The scale of destruction continues to mount as hundreds of structures have been destroyed and toxic smoke now blankets vast swathes of North America, creating a public health emergency that extends from the Canadian prairies to the eastern United States.

ENGLAND The English government has released the Terms of Reference for the new Building Control Independent Panel (BCIP) – an independent expert advisory panel tasked to examine the future of the building control system as recommended by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report. It specifically considers the removal of commercial interest from building control and whether to move to a national authority decision model.

The Chinese Embassy in India has thanked the Indian Navy and Mumbai Coast Guard after they successfully rescued 18 crew members from the Singaporeflagged container ship MV Wan Hai 503, which caught fire off the coast of Kerala.

The Indian Coast Guard deployed two Dornier aircraft equipped with life rafts for aerial surveillance and situational assessment. Five ICG ships, including specialised firefighting and pollution response vessels, were also mobilised, plus two Indian Coast Guard ships, which assisted in firefighting and rescue operations.

USA An Anker power bank widely sold in the US has been recalled over the risk its Lithium-Ion batteries can overheat and explode or cause a fire. The recall by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) involves the Anker PowerCore 10000, model number A1263. It covers 1,158,000 units that were sold in the US for about $27 between June 2016 and December 2022.

CHINA A total of 49 people were killed and 67 others injured in fire-related incidents across Myanmar during the first five months of 2025, with 610 fire accidents being reported, a decrease from 751 incidents during the same period last year.

The main causes of the fires included negligence, faulty electrical wiring and forest fires. In an effort to reduce fire accidents, Myanmar’s Fire Services Department is conducting an awareness campaign in schools and factories.

COLUMBIA FM Approvals has announced that counterfeit GL5651 glass bulb sprinklers with pendent-style deflectors have been found in Colombia bearing the FM Approvals mark. Counterfeit sprinklers similar in appearance were also reported in Dubai. FM Approvals has not certified or tested these sprinklers.

The manufacturer of these products is unknown and although ‘GLOBE’ is marked on the sprinklers, they were not manufactured by Globe Fire Sprinkler Corp. or Victaulic.

Anyone in possession of these counterfeit sprinklers bearing the FM Approvals certification marking or who has information relevant to these products, should contact FM Approvals.

NEW ZEALAND New Zealand Police announced that three people had been charged with manslaughter over a May 2023 boarding house fire in Wellington that killed five people.

The two men and one woman are alleged to have failed to take reasonable precautions and care to avoid danger to life.

They face an alternative set of manslaughter charges alleging failure to comply with duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act. A fourth person charged, a 72-year-old man, also entered no plea when he appeared in court on June 9.

The charges are the first of their kind in New Zealand – it is the first time that police have charged anyone involved in maintaining a building with manslaughter.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 11

PRODUCT NEWS

Marioff creates IoT solution for water mist fire protection JOHNSON CONTROLS ANNOUNCES NEW PRODUCT The new Hygood® Inert Gas System 300, from Johnson Controls, helps protect a diverse array of buildings with valuable or sensitive assets and provides several capabilities that align with market and customer expectations for performance, cost and lead time.

“We expect our specifying customers will leverage the simplified design and installation features to be more competitive in winning projects,” said Beth Bjorlo, Product Management Director at Johnson Controls. “This system represents a significant step forward in both fire protection safety and efficiency, providing our end users with peace of mind and dependable protection for their assets.” www.johnsoncontrols.com

Rosenbauer reveals its new PANTHER electric Rosenbauer presented the fully electric vehicle of the Rosenbauer fleet – the PANTHER electric – to 300 customers, sales partners and representatives from airports around the world at the Salzburgring.

The PANTHER electric delivers full power in all-electric mode and achieves faster acceleration and a higher top speed compared to conventionally powered vehicles, with significantly reduced CO2 emissions.

Designed to handle daily operations, it also features high-voltage batteries to supply enough energy to handle multiple typical emergency assignments (drive to location, fire extinguishing operation, return journey) on a single battery charge. www.rosenbauer.com

12 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

Marioff has announced a new IoT solution which integrates with its existing HI-FOG systems to provide continuous visibility, real-time alerts and smarter system management.

The fire protection technology is built to protect water mist systems, ensuring that customers have constant access to their performance statuses.

“Our IoT solution marks a significant step forward in fire safety,” said Juha Ilvonen, CEO of Marioff. “It helps ensure

systems are always monitored and ready – protecting people, property and business continuity.”

The new system features remote access and centralised control across multiple sites, which gives customers full visibility of their HI-FOG system at all times. www.marioff.com/smart

Viking’s Ultrasonic Liquid Level Indicator supports easy inspections

To support faster and more straightforward inspections, Viking has developed the Ultrasonic Liquid Level Indicator – a compact device that allows users to check agent storage contents easily and in a cost-effective manner, without dismantling equipment or interrupting operations.

Designed to accommodate various cylinder types and suppression agents, this device offers a practical solution for routine maintenance and verification tasks. The device utilises an ultrasonic sensor to accurately detect the liquid level within the cylinder.

By applying a small amount of coupling gel and positioning the sensor onto the cylinder surface, an LED indicator will immediately illuminate when positioned at or below the liquid level and will turn off when placed above it. www.viking-emea.com

LINCAD TO SUPPLY SPECIALIST BATTERY SYSTEMS FOR PHASA-35 HAPS UAS Lincad has secured a contract with BAE Systems’ subsidiary company, Prismatic, to develop high voltage Lithium-Ion battery packs to power PHASA-35.

It has been working collaboratively with Prismatic to increase the battery capacity to power Prismatic’s ultralight, solar-electric, high altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) unmanned aerial system (UAS).

PHASA-35 is fitted with advanced solar photovoltaic technology that provides

power for the electric motors and for recharging the battery packs during the day. www.lincad.co.uk

Signalling for your safety SIL1 and SIL2 compliant, globally approved explosion proof warning signals and manual call points for the harshest of environments

The D1x range of audible and visual signals and pull stations feature robust enclosures employing corrosion proof marine grade aluminum and borosilicate glass, ensuring suitability for the harshest of environments requiring explosion or flameproof equipment.

Certified for ambient temperatures from -67F to +185F and approved to UL, cUL, ULC for Class I Division 1, Zone 1, 20 and IECEx, ATEX for Zone 1, 21, the D1x range can be specified irrespective of the installation location. The D1xS alarm horn sounders employ D class amplifier technology to create sound level outputs of up to 127db(A). Select models can be combined with Xenon strobe lights to create the D1xC audio-visual signal.

The D1xB2 Xenon strobe beacon signals provide a range of light outputs up to 1,250 Candela and are available for both private and public mode fire applications. Lens color is generated via a UV stable PC filter that is field changeable, a 316 grade stainless steel lens guard is supplied as standard. All D1x signals feature low current consumption and E2S auto-synchronization technology.

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Advanced’s Axis AX delivers reliable fire safety Oman’s complex Bidbid Tunnel, a major infrastructure development along the Bidbid-Sur road, is now safeguarded by a robust Axis AX fire protection system from Advanced Installed by Middle East Wealth LLC, the system was designed to tackle the tunnel’s unique operational challenges, including fluctuating humidity and long-distance coverage. Due to these conditions, a hybrid fire detection system was installed, combining addressable and non-addressable technology, with IP67-rated components providing high resistance to moisture.

Covering two tunnels and associated control buildings, the installation includes three Axis AX panels and 25 stainless steel PENN integration boxes. The system manages vital safety infrastructure, including service buildings, tunnel control rooms, smoke extraction systems, and jet fans, some designed using aircraft engine technology, to regulate airflow and direct smoke away from evacuation routes.

An integrated water deluge system, combining sprinkler activation and jet fan coordination, ensures smoke is effectively managed without impacting neighbouring tunnel sections. During testing, the system achieved signal responses in under three seconds across distances of up to nine kilometres.

Sanjay Sebastian, Project Manager at Middle East Wealth, said: “To protect vital infrastructure, this project demanded a highly reliable, integrated solution.

Axis AX delivered the resilience and functionality we needed.”

Mark Taylor, Senior Technical Support Engineer at Advanced, added: “The Bidbid-Sur Tunnel installation showcases the strength of Axis AX in complex, highrisk environments, integrating seamlessly with tunnel systems to deliver fast, effective fire response.”

Raj Narayanan, General Manager at Middle East Wealth LLC, added: “This

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FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 15

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| REVIEW

THE GOLDEN THREAD Bob Rea shares his personal reflections on his experience of Chairing the Fire Middle East Conference in Riyadh in May

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 17

REVIEW |

Chairing the second Fire Middle East Conference in Riyadh on 14 May 2025 at the Voco Hotel was an extraordinary honour and opportunity for me. As I reflect on the event, I recognise that the conference allowed me to engage with industry leaders, policymakers and innovators in the field of fire safety and emergency management.

I took the stage early and gazed out over the quiet, empty room, waiting for the doors to open and the eager delegates to enter. You could hear a quiet hum of voices, as the delegates engaged in the pre-conference networking opportunity, which made me realise how it is not just a conference but an opportunity for delegates to meet old and new industry colleagues and share experiences. The sense of anticipation and a few nerves raised their head. The doors opened and the audience flowed in, finding their seats at the immaculate white tables. The floor was soon full and the conference began in earnest.

The previous year my main takeaways were the three Cs: • Communication, • Collaboration, and • Cooperation.

I wondered what I would take away this year, with a diverse, challenging but engaging programme on offer. The Advisory Board had set the conference

18 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

vision to build from last year’s success, aiming to be bigger, better and bolder!

They established the core pillars as: • Networking, • Education, and • Futureproofing.

These set the conference on the journey to offer a pivotal platform for advancing knowledge, standards and emergency preparedness in a rapidly developing visionary region.

Taking to the stage

Opening the conference I welcomed the audience, thanking the generosity of the sponsors and venue, before setting the scene for the day. The audience, who were widely travelled and a true representation of the diverse make-up of the industry’s professionals, settled in for the opening keynote speaker.

Saleh Alzahrani, engineering and consulting expert for Saudi Arabia Accreditation Center, explored the critical role of inspections to strengthen fire prevention and response systems.

He delivered a thought-provoking presentation, highlighting the essential need for standards and quality control, with the key message that “Inspectors are the upholders of standards” and they need to maintain impartiality and professional integrity.

I followed up by moderating the first panel discussion on the challenges

faced by the evolution of high-risk facilities. I was joined by Amer Al Merabi, P.Eng., Senior Associate FLS Engineer, AESG; Turki Tammar, Director of Fire Protection Department, Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority; Rob Brittain, Staff Engineer, Jensen Hughes; and Abdulaziz Al Sulayyim, Head of FM & HSSE, Academy of Defense Industries.

A stimulating discussion took place, where we explored both the heavily regulated environments of the nuclear industry to the unregulated and newer technologies and the challenges around maintaining a safer environment.

The panel recognised that the built environment is safe until we allow people to enter and it is their behaviours which can compromise safe design.

Discussions abound

Peter Stephenson, my long standing friend and Associate Director, Fire & Life Safety for Qiddiya, was then welcomed to the stage to moderate the next panel discussion, which explored the new and evolving challenges for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its 2030 Vision and its bid to attract and welcome tourists to the Kingdom.

Also up on the stage and taking part in the discussions were: Majed Almejmaj, Fire Prevention & Rescue Director, King Abdullah Financial District; Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, Vice President – HSE, International Maritime Industries; Eiad

| REVIEW

Shami, Principal Consultant FLS, WSP Middle East and Yaser Mohammed, FLS Design Manager, Diriyah Company.

Peter led the discussion which examined many areas, including how human behaviours and expectations can differ from the planning assumptions, but that safety was the key priority and sharing lessons learned.

Industry experts

Ayman Eid, Senior Fire and Life Safety Specialist at Egis, delivered our next keynote presentation on fire and life safety in Metro stations and rail tunnels.

A huge and interesting topic, one that was timely for the region, with the wide array of developments. He covered the challenges of managing and designing from mixed uses opening onto the same space and how many differing codes and standards are utilised in the design stages. He also continued the theme of human behaviour challenges and their understanding of the hazards and risks.

This year’s TED-style talk was given by Tomasz Kielbasa, Certification Manager at Emirates Safety Laboratory. He raised the need for smoke control systems to be fit for purpose and tested as designed to be truly fire rated. The talk reminded me of an incident where a fire hood had deflected due to the heat of the fire and allowed the fire to penetrate the floor void of a 400-year-old property and run laterally in the floor voids.

It was while I was listening to Tomasz, that I noticed how one of the decorative lights was shining on the national flag of the Kingdom, causing a golden light to rotate round the fringe, giving me the impression of golden threads. I saw this as a magic and poetic illustration of how the conference was supporting the industry.

presentation, examining the emotive topic of Lithium-Ion batteries and the significant challenges they present. He reminded the audience of the need to consider where and how they recharge the batteries, especially in the domestic environment. He noted if placed in an entrance way, they could compromise exit from the property in the event of fire.

Live podcast highlight

Raising the bar

A highlight for me followed, when we had two influential ladies from the industry join us on stage. Sandy Dweik, CEO of Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultancy and Sawsan Dahham, Founder and CEO of Siena Fire, took part in a live podcast, discussing personal experiences and feelings of their journey in the industry, examining attracting, recruiting and retaining females in the industry. They also shared their views on becoming role models and how organisations can become employers of choice, by demonstrating their commitment to diversity, development and making a difference. It is important to remember when building teams, that a diverse team makeup brings diverse experience and knowledge, which can better inform decisions and outcomes, offering greater access to the wider community.

Ghaith Bakir, Senior Regulatory Engineer, UL Solutions, led our next

With one of the threads of the day being Codes and Standards, Olga Caledonia, International Director of the NFPA, led a really informative presentation and discussion on the NFPA Codes and Standards and how they play a vital role in supporting design, development and operation of new and existing facilities.

Also weighing in on the discussions on stage were: Zahi Daher, International Business Development Manager, NFPA; Khalid Almandil, Fire Commissioner, Red Sea Global and Operational General Manager, Red Sea Fire & Rescue; Mark Finn, General Manager, FEC International Ltd; and Abdulhadi Algarni, CEO, CRASH Group.

They identified that Fire and Life Safety is an ecosystem, a symbiotic relationship, where joined up working delivers a holistic result. Using the NFPA Codes and Standards supports a consistent application and development of understanding through knowledge

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 19

REVIEW |

sharing. The key message was to work together for the best results.

Our final presentation was from Andrew Birch, Director of Competitions and Sport, World Firefighter Games 2026, where he engaged us with his introduction and history of the Firefighter Games, which are taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2026. Taking us on the inclusive journey and how the games bring together the global fire service family in a competitive yet supportive environment, building lifelong relationships.

Further education opportunities

Alongside the conference formal presentations ran a series of workshops in the networking area, providing outstanding informative opportunities for the delegates. A new addition to the conference was the mobile App, which gave live information on the conference and workshops. The last workshop of the day was a certified Incident Command workshop from Timothy Zupko, where he went through the history and application of the Incident Command System.

“I asked if we had met our goals – which I believe we did, and how this year’s conference is building on last year and setting a hard task to better.”

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As the chair, my role involved steering the day, finding threads and key takeaways from each session. The calibre of the speakers and their insights made this task both rewarding and challenging (when it came to keeping them to time!).

Drawing the conference to a close, I reminded the delegates of the three pillars: • Networking, • Education, and • Futureproofing.

I asked if we had met our goals – which I believe we did, and how this year’s conference is building on last year and setting a hard task to better.

I asked the delegates to depart the conference and remember that they are: • Ambassadors for the fire industry; • Role models for colleagues and future generations; and • Are the upholders of standards.

Thank you to the Fire Middle East Conference for the honour of being the chair of such a successful conference.

Onwards to 2026.

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THE SPARK OF PROGRESS The Fire Middle East Conference, held in May, was a resounding success for all of our speakers, sponsors and attendees and has played a vital role in igniting the path to a safer future

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Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The air within the conference halls on May 14th hummed with an undeniable energy as industry leaders, innovators and dedicated professionals gathered for what proved to be a landmark event: the Fire Middle East Conference 2025. Observing the day unfold offered a compelling immersion into the collective ambition and strategic foresight driving the region’s fire safety sector. From insightful keynotes that set the strategic agenda, to groundbreaking technological showcases and collaborative workshops, the conference unequivocally delivered on its three core promises: Education, Networking and Future-proofing. It was, without doubt, a fantastic event for the industry, perfectly aligned with the transformative goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to foster safer, smarter and more resilient communities.

Guiding the day’s diverse and engaging sessions with expertise and a keen sense of flow was Bob Rea, Director of BR Training Solutions Ltd.

A morning of insight and dialogue

The early morning hours were a vibrant tapestry of reconnections and initial exchanges, setting a dynamic tone for the high-level discussions that were to follow. The prevalent atmosphere was one of anticipation and a shared commitment to elevating safety standards across the Kingdom.

The main stage quickly became the focal point, hosting a distinguished lineup of thought leaders whose expertise resonated deeply with the audience.

The day’s proceedings commenced with a compelling presentation by Saleh Alzahrani, General Manager at the Saudi Accreditation Center.

Alzahrani highlighted the significance of confidentiality and diligent monitoring during inspections, expertly outlining strategies to ensure their effectiveness in improving safety and operational efficiency. His insights underscored the benefits of accreditation in enhancing credibility and compliance, setting a foundational tone for the conference.

The morning also featured compelling panel discussions that fostered critical dialogue. The first panel discussion of the day, expertly moderated by Bob Rea, delved into ‘Fire Programmes in High-Risk Facilities’. With Saudi Arabia’s booming investments in high-risk technologies such as renewable energy and nuclear areas, this session was crucial. Panellists included Amer Al Merabi, Senior Associate FLS Engineer: AESG; Turki Tammar, Director of Fire Protection Department: Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority; Rob Brittain, Staff Engineer, Jensen Hughes; and Abdulaziz Al Sulayyim, Head of FM & HSSE, Academy of Defense Industries.

Brittain stressed the financial imperative of embedding fire and life safety from the outset in such projects, a point Al Sulayyim echoed regarding insurance costs. Rea made a thought-provoking remark: “Every building is safe. Until you put people in them,” to which Tammar added that fire protection should be seen as a strategic priority, not just a regulation. The discussion underscored issues like a lack of experience and the need for specialised training programmes as well as the possibility of a contractual obligation for a level of knowledge.

Al Merabi emphasised the vital role of conferences like this in knowledge transfer and transparent communication.

Another pivotal panel discussion of the day focused on ‘Fire Safety

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 23

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Empowering attendees

and Risk Management with a New Wave of Tourism’. Moderated by Peter Stephenson, Associate Director FLS, Qiddiya, this session brought together Majed Almejmaj, Fire Prevention & Rescue Director, King Abdullah Financial District; Dr. Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, Vice President, HSE, International Maritime Industries; Eiad Shami, Principal Consultant FLS, WSP Middle East; and Yaser Mohammed, FLS Design Manager, Diriyah Company. As global mega-events and hospitality initiatives rapidly attract tourists to the Kingdom, the panel explored how the fire safety industry can best prepare for managing large crowds, mass events, and effectively take human behaviours into consideration – a crucial aspect of future-proofing the region’s burgeoning tourism sector.

Expert insights

We also had Ayman Eid, Senior Fire & Life Safety Specialist at Egis Middle East, take to the stage. His timely talk focused on crucial aspects of fire and life safety in metro stations and rail tunnels, delving into the unique challenges and best practices for these vital urban infrastructures. Eid’s presentation meticulously covered key compliance requirements from both international and local fire codes, outlining passive and active fire protection systems essential for ensuring safety in underground and elevated transit systems, a pertinent discussion given Saudi Arabia’s expanding transportation networks.

Later in the morning, Tomasz Kielbasa from Emirates Safety Laboratory delivered

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a fascinating session exploring the critical role of smoke control systems in fire safety. Kielbasa meticulously broke down types of products and the standards used to test them, emphasising the importance of robust equipment that can withstand rigorous testing. “My recommendation is always to ask for specifics. Never settle for generalisations,” he advised, while also warning against cost-cutting measures that could compromise safety, urging “sometimes you will want to use cheaper insulation, but think about the practical applications.”

The depth and specificity of these early sessions were fundamental in delivering on the conference’s Education pillar, providing attendees with strategic insights into both current realities and future demands.

A particularly significant session, presented in a live podcast format, focused on ‘Empowering Diversity and Inclusivity in the FLS industry’, with Sawsan Dahham, CEO, Siena Fire and Sandy Dweik, CEO, Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants.

This critical topic saw Dahham take a proactive approach, stressing the need for “knowledge, understanding and education” in a field often not highlighted in traditional university curricula. Dweik shared her own pioneering history, recalling bringing the first accredited furnace into the Middle East in 2003 as codes were evolving, and underscored the necessity to “balance self-growing whilst the market is growing.”

Addressing the challenges for women in a traditionally male-dominated engineering field, Dahham highlighted that collaboration between men and women is key to creating a better environment. Dweik noted how qualities like being “detail-oriented” and “protective of their family and loved ones” make women intrinsically suited for the domain of safety. Both champions unanimously agreed that more can be done to shake up the sector with an improved focus on diversity and inclusivity.

Ghaith Bakir, Senior Regulatory Engineer at UL Solutions, further enlightened the audience with his critical expertise on the burgeoning risks of Lithium-Ion batteries. He detailed

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“A magnetic draw throughout the day was the Tech Innovation Stage, a dynamic platform where the very future of fire safety was brought to life”

how these ubiquitous power sources, often containing multiple combustible components, can escalate into a “complete fire with Thermal Runaway within less than 20 seconds” from ignition, even with fewer than 25 cells.

Citing over 15,946 reported incidents, Bakir underscored the urgent need for public education and community engagement, highlighting UL’s LithiumIon Battery Reporting platform for sharing vital incident data. He also introduced UL1487, aimed at safer storage and charging of devices including e-scooters, reinforcing the imperative of adapting safety measures to new technologies.

Detailed discussions

A central discussion shaping the middle part of the day was the insightful panel: ‘Strengthening Fire Safety in Saudi Arabia: Navigating NFPA Codes and Standards for a Safer Future’. Moderated by Olga Caledonia, Executive Director, NFPA, it featured a formidable lineup including Zahi Daher, International Business Development Manager, NFPA; Khalid Almandil, Fire Commissioner, Red Sea Global; Mark Finn, General Manager, FEC International Ltd; and Abdulhadi Algarni, CEO, Crash Group. The panel delved into the vital role of NFPA codes

and standards in mitigating fire risks and enhancing emergency response as Saudi Arabia progresses towards Vision 2030. Daher emphasised, “Adopting codes and standards is a crucial first step… the proper implementation is the real challenge.” Caledonia keenly observed: “Keeping up is not enough. We need to stay ahead,” encapsulating the panel’s forward-looking message. This dynamic exchange provided deep insights into aligning global best practices with regional ambitions.

Last of all, the conference welcomed our final speaker of the day Andrew Birch, Director of Sports & Competitions at the World Firefighters Games 2026.

His talk provided a thrilling preview of the 16th World Firefighters Games, set to take place for the first time ever in the Middle East. Often referred to as the ‘mini Olympics for firefighters,’ this highly competitive event gathers 7,000 athletes from across continents. Birch underscored the profound focus beyond just competition, sharing, “Saudi Arabia is ready. However, the event is focused more on what we leave behind. What truly matters will be the legacy,” linking the games to lasting impact and community engagement.

of their businesses and the broader industry. The hum of conversation, punctuated by animated discussions, painted a clear picture of an industry united in its pursuit of excellence.

A magnetic draw throughout the day was the Tech Innovation Stage, a dynamic platform where the very future of fire safety was brought to life. This stage served as a compelling testament to the conference’s dedication to futureproofing the industry by showcasing next-generation solutions poised to revolutionise safety protocols. Here, leading organisations unveiled their latest technological breakthroughs, offering delegates a practical, hands-on understanding of what’s emerging on the horizon.

Innovation, connectivity and inclusivity

Throughout the morning the conference transitioned into its vibrant networking sessions. These designated breaks were far more than mere intervals; they transformed into dynamic hubs of collaboration, underscoring the conference’s unwavering commitment to fostering essential networking.

Professionals seized the opportunity to engage directly with peers, forge invaluable partnerships and exchange ideas that promise to shape the trajectory

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 25

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RelyOn Fire Academy was among the first to present, highlighting its cuttingedge solutions and providing a glimpse into the future of fire safety. Kidde Global Solutions similarly captivated the audience with its advanced fire safety technologies, demonstrating solutions poised to transform traditional approaches to fire detection, suppression and emergency response. Bauer Kompressoren GmbH had its turn to take centre stage, immersing attendees in its latest innovations, with representatives explaining how its advancements in high-pressure air systems could be seamlessly integrated into real-world scenarios. Mimar Tools also provided invaluable insights from the Tech Innovation Stage, showcasing tools and solutions driving the next wave of fire detection, suppression and prevention advancements. Further enhancing the stage’s diverse offerings, Lubrizol BlazeMaster was live, highlighting the practical installation procedure for CPVC

BlazeMaster fire sprinkler piping systems.

Delegates also had the opportunity to learn from Intertek, whose presentation provided essential insights into gaining market access through certification, helping companies navigate complex regulatory landscapes globally and locally.

SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSOR

KNOWLEDGE PARTNER

BRONZE SPONSORS

EXHIBITORS

The support from our esteemed sponsors was evident throughout the conference, reflecting their crucial role in nurturing innovation and driving industry growth. As the Knowledge Partner, NFPA provided invaluable intellectual leadership. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our 2025 sponsors including Relyon, Reacton, Jensen Hughes, BlazeMaster, FSA KSA, Intertek, Bauer Compressors, Mimar, Tema Sistemi, Kidde Global Solutions and Apollo, whose commitment made such a comprehensive and impactful event possible.

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The immediate applicability and forward-thinking nature of these demonstrations underlined the industry’s rapid evolution.

Practical application and collaborative futures

The afternoon portion of the conference continued to solidify its pillars, pushing into more practical applications and strategic foresight. The commitment to Education was profoundly underscored by an exclusive and highly anticipated 1-hour interactive workshop hosted by the esteemed Fire Science Academy – KSA. This session provided participants with core knowledge and Best Practice approaches for successful disaster management of major incidents. It thoroughly covered the incident command process, its structure and effective use to minimise community, environmental and economic impact while maintaining personnel safety. The workshop also explored executive sponsorship’s influence on Incident Command System implementation and optimising business continuity through efficient use of training, equipment, personnel and resources, proving a key component in Future-proofing professional careers with tangible expertise.

Further reinforcing the strategic drive for innovation and collaborative learning, the conference also celebrated a significant new partnership between Fire Middle East and NFPA. This collaboration is poised to strategically enhance and strengthen fire safety across the region for everyone, demonstrating a shared commitment to elevating standards and practices. This pivotal partnership builds on NFPA’s role as the conference’s

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Knowledge Partner, deepening the collective effort to empower fire professionals with the best possible resources and fostering a more resilient fire safety landscape.

In another exciting development, the conference highlighted a new collaboration between Fire Middle East and QHSSE Platform. This partnership is set to provide groundbreaking Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) training solutions specifically designed to upskill the region’s fire professionals.

By leveraging the power of advanced immersive technologies, learners will be able to fully immerse themselves in their training, delivering better outcomes and increased confidence – a truly innovative approach to fire safety education and a clear marker of the conference’s goal towards Future-proofing.

A resounding success for regional fire safety

As the Fire Middle East Conference 2025 drew to a close, a sense of collective accomplishment and renewed purpose filled the air. The high-level discussions throughout the day, the vibrant networking exchanges, and the clear focus on next-generation technologies painted a vivid picture of an industry not just responding to challenges, but actively shaping its future.

The event powerfully achieved its three core promises: providing unparalleled education through expert presentations, engaging panels and specialised workshops; fostering invaluable networking opportunities that sparked vital collaborations and knowledge transfer; and actively driving futureproofing by showcasing transformative

technologies and forging strategic partnerships essential for regional development. The Fire Middle East Conference was unequivocally a fantastic event for the industry, leaving delegates inspired, better informed and powerfully connected, ready to contribute to a safer, more resilient Middle East.

“The depth and specificity of these early sessions were fundamental in delivering on the conference’s Education pillar” FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 27

FLS AUDITS | DATA CENTRES

As the digital backbone of our world continues to expand, the stakes for protecting critical data infrastructure from the devastating impact of fire have never been higher, explains Roy Savio Fernandes, Project Director, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy, B.E (Hons), MBA

28 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

FLS AUDITS | DATA CENTRES

Prevention is better than cure! As the age old saying goes, which couldn’t be more applicable to the latest emerging need of the hour – data centres. In the blink of an eye, the world can come to a standstill when there is a downtime or a breakdown at a major data centre. From e-commerce to social media, such an emergency event could lead to grave consequences depending on the extent of damage.

History has taught us that such service outages have cost thousands of dollars, if not more. However, the need for data centres continues to grow as technology has a direct or indirect increased dependence on its associated IT capacity.

Building codes

Building codes, both local and international, provide the minimum fire protection requirements as a legal responsibility for these unique environments. International standards, such as the NFPA 75, Standard for the Fire Protection of Information Technology Equipment, provide minimum guidelines for active and passive protection in such facilities. NFPA 76, Standard for the Fire Protection of Telecommunication Facilities dictates the requirements for data centres that include telecommunication equipment, which are typically part of a public network.

During any inspection or fire life safety audit, it is important to review the existing fire protection systems in place and provide recommendations for hazards that may arise or already exist.

As defined in Chapter 4, NFPA 75, the fire protection approach shall be established with consideration given to the following factors: (1) Exposure threat to facility occupants, the general public, emergency responders and exposed property from a fire occurring at the facility, adjacent to or within Information Technology Equipment (ITE) areas.

(2) The importance of the continuity of the data being stored or processed by the ITE. (3) Methods and equipment employed as part of a risk management or business continuity strategy that allow data to remain viable during and after an event or to be replaced or restored.

(4) The potential for a given protection strategy to result in a service or data disruption or inhibit the ability of the data provider to restore operation and access to the data promptly post-event

Compartmentation

Fire compartmentation for the ITE area requires separation from the rest of the building areas by a minimum of 1-hour fire-rated construction. Doors present as part of this ITE enclosure protection would need to be inspected for appropriate fire rating. Doors must be fire-rated for a minimum of 45 minutes.

The fire-resistant-rated enclosures should extend from the structural floor to the structural floor above or the roof. Penetrations for cables or other penetrations must be suitably fire-sealed with a listed fire stop assembly.

Any gaps or penetrations observed during audits would need to be immediately highlighted and firesealed. Likewise, all air ducts and air transfer openings passing through ITE room enclosures shall be provided with automatic fire and smoke dampers.

Fire dampers have to be inspected and witness-tested per NFPA 80. Smoke dampers shall be witness-tested per NFPA 105 and NFPA 72. Both these dampers must close on activation.

The ITE area should also be inspected for the location of the room itself, and its proximity to adjacent areas or other structures where hazardous processes are present. Spaces above suspended ceilings have to be clear of any horizontal water supply or drainage piping other than sprinkler piping. The ITE area, in principle, should be inspected to ensure it is clear from exposure to fire, water, corrosive fumes, heat and smoke from adjacent areas.

Regular inspections

ITE areas must be inspected to ensure full-time workstations are not present within the room. Small work areas, where permitted, are required to comply with all the requirements dictated in NFPA 75, Section 7.1. Paper records, manuals, drawings and all other combustible materials should be inspected to ensure they are stored in fully enclosed noncombustible cabinets or cases. Case furniture, including desks, should be constructed of non-combustible material (e.g., metal). In addition,it’s vital that raised floors are inspected to ensure there is no storage of combustibles. Paper stock, inks, unused recording media and other combustibles within the ITE room are restricted to the absolute minimum necessary for efficient operation.

Consider the equipment

In terms of the equipment present within the ITE area, any equipment and replacement parts should meet the requirements of UL 60950-1, Information Technology Equipment – Safety – Part 1: General Requirements, or UL 623681, Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment – Part 1: Safety Requirements. A visual inspection of relevant documentation can be carried out for the above test standards compliance. ITE that includes integral battery backup – typically to reduce the effects of instantaneous power shutdowns and to provide orderly shutdown of the server – will ensure that the integral battery backup is part of the product listing.

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FLS AUDITS | DATA CENTRES

A system designed for the purpose of single-phase immersion cooling of ITE using insulating liquids needs to comply with the following per NFPA 75, Section 8.2.1: (1) Have a lid or access point, (2) Use closed piping, (3) Be listed or approved.

“Data centres are critical for the smooth flow of operations in various industries worldwide. Any inadvertent outage can have a significant impact.”

Active fire systems

Likewise, on the active fire systems, the fire suppression system must be witness-tested for functionality per the standard it was designed, installed and tested. Room integrity test reports, where present, should be reviewed. Annual maintenance records of these systems must be thoroughly documented and made available. Interfacing of the fire protection systems with the building fire detection and alarm system will be inspected and witness-tested per NFPA 72. Any deviations noticed in terms of monitoring and status signal receipt for Alarm, Trouble and Supervisory signals should be highlighted, and the same corrected by certified personnel.

NFPA 75, Chapter 9, dictates that smoke detection should be installed to provide early warning of fire. Typically, to meet this requirement, air sampling systems are considered. Where air sampling systems are present, they must be functionally tested through the test points. Detection coverage is assessed both at the ceiling level and below raised floor areas, where present. Although NFPA 72 permits aspirated smoke detector transport time of up to 120 seconds, keeping the transport time below 90 seconds for earlier warning in ITE areas should be considered. If smoke dampers are present as part of the room enclosure, the functional witness test of the smoke detector interface with the smoke damper operation should be performed.

To ensure that the existing evacuation methodology and interface responses are in accordance with the approved cause and effect matrix for the facility, the sequence of operation can be witnesstested. Audibility and visual notification coverage shall be evaluated during such FLS audits, and areas within the facility where required coverage is missing or inadequate per NFPA 72 standards, should be addressed.

Portable fire extinguishers are another element that needs inspection through review of the annual maintenance records, showcasing their service and maintenance per NFPA 10. Listed portable fire extinguishers of the carbon

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dioxide type or a halogenated agent type should be provided for the protection of electronic equipment. Dry chemical extinguishers are not permitted.

Final considerations

Last but not least, all electrical services need to comply with NFPA 70, National Electrical Code. Articles 645 and 646 can be adopted and followed for electrical circuitry. If a separate coolant system is required for operation of an ITE installation, the system can be provided with an approved alarm to indicate loss of liquid. During an audit, emergency lighting should undergo witness-testing to ensure adequate levels of illumination are maintained in the event of a power loss.

Under NFPA 72, an approved automatic smoke detection system should be installed in rooms containing stationary battery storage systems. In addition, for vented lead-acid batteries, flooded nickelcadmium and VRLA batteries, ventilation can be provided for rooms and cabinets in accordance with the mechanical code and one of the following: (1) The ventilation system shall be designed to limit the maximum concentration of hydrogen to 1.0 percent of the total volume of the room during the worst-case event of simultaneous ‘boost’ charging of all the batteries, in accordance with nationally recognised standards.

(2) Continuous ventilation shall be provided at a rate of not less than

1 ft3/min/ft2 (5.1 L/sec/m2) of floor area of the room or cabinet.

Tracking changes

Whenever modifications or refurbishments are made to the ITE area – such as size, installation of new partitions, modification of the airhandling systems, or revised ITE layout — the potential impact on existing fire detection and extinguishing systems must be evaluated and, if necessary, corrective changes made. Any changes would of course be subject to the local Fire Department authorities or Local Civil Defence for approval.

Data centres are critical for the smooth flow of operations in various industries worldwide. Any inadvertent outage can have a significant impact. Ensuring the prescribed level of compliance in design has been met and further ensuring that the running of such facilities remains compliant is of paramount importance.

Therefore it is important that Fire Life Safety audits at data centres are conducted annually to ensure that the hazards, changes or modifications to ITE area or existing fire protection systems are continually assessed, and potential fire risks are mitigated with updated emergency and recovery procedures. At the same time, existing strategies can be evaluated and improved upon to reduce downtime and any further risks. tenablefec.com

GUIDE TO | SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE, THERE’S A SOLUTION Often perceived as a complex specialist discipline, understanding the fundamentals of smoke control is vital for effective fire safety, particularly grasping how these systems seamlessly integrate with building fire alarm systems and the various methodologies employed to protect occupants and property, explains Yasser Amer Ahmed, a Fire Protection Specialist and Registered Fire Protection Consultant Smoke control is a crucial aspect of fire safety engineering. It is designed to minimise the spread of smoke and toxic gases in buildings during fire incidents.

These systems operate using various techniques, including mechanical ventilation, pressure differentials and compartmentation, to manage smoke movement, thus ensuring the safety of both occupants and property. Here, we

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will cover the principles, design aspects and applications of smoke control systems. Additionally, we will highlight the regulations and standards governing their implementation.

Integration of fire alarm systems with smoke control Fire alarm systems play an essential role in the activation and operation

of smoke control mechanisms. These systems identify the presence of smoke and fire, alert individuals and emergency responders and trigger necessary smoke management actions. Additionally, fire alarms continuously monitor smoke control system performance, relaying crucial status updates to building management systems. For these systems to work effectively, they must be properly

GUIDE TO | SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS

listed, compatible and integrated to provide a coordinated response during fire emergencies.

Designing and maintaining smoke control systems

Smoke control systems are highly complex and require meticulous planning, installation and maintenance. Their design should be based on a thorough analysis of fire hazards, building characteristics, occupant needs and firefighting operations. This process involves creating a detailed report known as a smoke control report or ‘rational analysis’, which must be completed by a registered fire protection engineer (FPE) under the International Building Code (IBC) 2021 Section 909.4.

The rational analysis outlines several key aspects: Selection between passive and mechanical smoke control systems.

Identification of the most effective smoke management technique (pressurisation, exhaust or airflow).

Construction methodology, sequence of operation and testing protocols.

Considerations for factors such as stack effect, fire-induced temperature variations, wind influence, climate conditions and system operational duration.

Integration with firefighting operations and evacuation strategies.

Compliance with local, national and international building and fire safety regulations.

Adopting this thorough approach ensures that smoke control strategies are tailored to the specific requirements of a building and its occupants.

Codes and standards governing smoke control

Smoke control systems are mandated and regulated by specific codes and standards that define performance requirements, design criteria, installation methods and testing protocols for different types of buildings and occupancies. Some of the key documents include: 2021 International Building Code (IBC), Chapter 9: Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems.

ASHRAE Handbook of Smoke Control Engineering.

NFPA 92: Standard for Smoke Control Systems.

NFPA 101: Life Safety Code.

NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL): Smoke Control Equipment (ANSI/864 units for fire protective signaling systems).

These codes and standards ensure that smoke control systems are designed, installed and maintained to meet safety requirements and perform effectively during emergencies.

Where are smoke control systems mandatory to install?

According to the International Building Code IBC 2021, smoke control systems are required in the following scenarios: Atriums (three storeys or more) within covered malls (Section 402.7.2).

High-rise buildings (Section 403.4.7).

Atriums (three connected storeys or more) (Section 404.5).

Underground buildings (Section 405.5).

Enclosed parking garages with mechanical access (Section 406.6.4.2).

Windowless buildings classified as Group I-3 (Section 408.9).

Large stages (greater than 1,000 square feet in area or 50 feet in height) (Section 410.2.7).

These requirements are designed to address the unique challenges posed by these building types and ensure the safety of occupants during fire emergencies.

Regular types of smoke control systems Smoke control systems can be broadly classified into two main categories: passive type systems and mechanical type systems.

STAIR PRESSURE FAN #1

Passive Smoke Control Systems: These systems rely on natural forces like buoyancy and pressure differences to create ventilation openings that allow smoke to escape and fresh air to enter. Examples include automatic opening vents (AOVs), atrium exhausts, opposed airflow systems and smoke reservoirs. Passive systems often incorporate devices such as fire dampers, combination fire-smoke dampers and fire-rated doors with magnetic hold-open mechanisms. Activation depends on the approved rational analysis or smoke control report and may involve smoke detectors, heat detectors or duct smoke detectors. Positive status verification is not mandatory under the International Building Code IBC 2021 Section 909.12.1 unless specified in the rational analysis.

Wiring must comply with the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code NFPA 70 and be enclosed in continuous raceways.

Mechanical Smoke Control Systems: These systems use fans, dampers, ducts and other equipment to manipulate pressure and airflow patterns to control smoke movement. Common methods include: 1. Pressurisation Method (IBC 2021 Section 909.6): This approach generates pressure differentials across smoke barriers to contain smoke movement.

Minimum pressure requirement: 0.05" water gauge (IBC 2021 Section 909.6.1).

Maximum door opening force: 30lbs to initiate motion, 15lbs for full opening (IBC 2021 Section 1010.1.3 #2).

SMOKE EXHAUST FAN

CORRIDOR SUPPLY FAN

FSD CLOSED

STAIR PRESSURE FAN #2

FSD OPEN

PRESSURISED EXHAUSTED FSD OPEN

FSD CLOSED

FSD CLOSED

PRESSURISED

STAIRWELL 1

FSD OPEN STAIRWELL 2

Smoke Control Pressurisation Method Detail

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 33

GUIDE TO | SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Full automation is mandatory, and electrical wiring must comply with NFPA 70 regulations.

Full automation and NFPA 70-compliant wiring are necessary.

2. Exhaust Method (IBC 2021 Section 909.8): Uses large exhaust fans to remove smoke from designated areas (e.g., atriums, malls).

Replacement air may be supplied via mechanical systems, automatic windows or doors.

Smoke levels must remain at least six feet above evacuation pathways.

Designed per NFPA 92, requiring full automation and NFPA 70-compliant wiring.

According to IBC 2021 Section 909.4.6, all active components of smoke control systems must function for a minimum of 20 minutes or 1.5 times the calculated evacuation time, whichever is longer.

This requirement ensures that the system remains operational long enough to support safe evacuation and firefighting efforts.

The role of emerging technologies in smoke control

3. Airflow Method (IBC 2021 Section 909.7): Utilises airflow direction to control smoke migration.

Air velocity must not exceed 200 feet per minute.

System design must not negatively impact other smoke control measures, intensify the fire or obstruct egress routes.

Hybrid Smoke Control Systems: Combining passive and mechanical approaches to optimise smoke management in complex structures.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Modelling: Advanced simulation techniques to predict smoke movement and optimise system performance.

Smart Control Systems: Integration of artificial intelligence and real-time monitoring for dynamic response to fire incidents.

ATRIUM EXHAUST FAN

SMOKE LAYER

LEVEL 5

LEVEL 5

LEVEL 4

LEVEL 4

PLUME

LEVEL 3

LEVEL 3

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 2 MAKEUP AIR

MAKEUP AIR

Smoke Control Exhaust Method Detail

AIRFLOW NOT GREATER THAN 200 CFM

Smoke Control Air Flow Detail

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SMOKE

IoT Integration: Enhancing smoke control monitoring through cloud-based analytics and automation.

Advanced Materials: Innovations in fire-resistant materials and coatings are improving the efficiency of smoke barriers.

Verification and positive status

Smoke control equipment in mechanical systems must comply with IBC 2021 Section 909.12.1, which mandates “verification” or “positive status”. This involves using fire alarm monitoring modules to supervise the activation of fans, dampers and doors during a smoke control event. Components such as variable frequency drives (VFDs), end switches, pressure differential switches and current switches provide contact closure to trip the associated fire alarm monitoring module, proving that the fan, damper or door has activated as intended per the approved rational analysis or smoke control report.

But there are some exceptions. If individual components tested during the pre-programmed weekly test interfere with normal building operations, they may be bypassed if approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). However, the presence of power downstream of all disconnects must be verified weekly by a listed control unit, and all bypassed components must be tested according to International Fire Code IFC Section 909.20.6.

Be prepared

Smoke control systems are a vital component of fire safety, mitigating risks associated with smoke inhalation and fire spread. Understanding their principles, design and regulatory requirements ensures their effective implementation.

By following proper planning, installation and maintenance procedures, these systems can significantly enhance occupant safety and property protection during fire emergencies. Continuous advancements in smoke control technology, including hybrid systems, AI integration and IoT advancements, further improve fire safety measures, ensuring buildings remain well-prepared for firerelated emergencies.

The future of smoke control is moving towards more intelligent, predictive and adaptive systems, providing greater reliability and efficiency in safeguarding lives and property.

FLS | EXPLOSION-PROOF CAMERAS

Minimising risk

Jesper Olavi, Global Product Manager at Axis Communications, looks at how smart surveillance and explosion-protected cameras can transform hazardous areas No two workplace environments are the same. For fire and life safety professionals operating within the complex arenas of critical infrastructure and industrial operations, particularly across the dynamic landscapes of the Middle East, the challenge is clear: how to proactively safeguard against fire and explosion risks while maintaining operational continuity.

These hazardous environments, often containing flammable gases, vapours, or combustible dusts, demand an uncompromising approach to personnel protection and incident prevention.

Traditional surveillance methods, however, can inadvertently become an ignition source in such volatile atmospheres, creating a significant dilemma for those tasked with ensuring safety. Yet, the

36 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

imperative for continuous, reliable monitoring and comprehensive situational awareness in these high-risk zones does not have to come with compromises, thanks to the remarkable advancements in network surveillance and the proliferation of explosion-protected devices

All it takes is one spark

Whether in a factory, mine, farm or industrial installation, there can be a risk of an explosion caused by combustible or flammable material in the presence of air being ignited. This includes typical gases and vapours that are extracted and processed, a by-product of operations, or a production additive, across all sectors.

The risk extends beyond just gases and vapours. Environments where large

FLS | EXPLOSION-PROOF CAMERAS

“Operators need to think beyond the immediate results and consider the possibilities that come with today’s network surveillance solutions” amounts of dust or fibres are present in the air, like in industries such as farming and manufacturing, can lead to serious explosions. The potential ignition sources also greatly vary. Electrical sparks caused by friction, high surface temperatures, even lightning strikes, as well as open flames and fires resulting from electrical incidents, can lead to a devastating explosion.

How EX cameras mitigate risk

The need for explosion-protected security and surveillance solutions has given birth to an entire portfolio of devices built for that purpose. Regulations have also played a role in reinforcing this need, with today’s regulations – including the globally recognised IEC Zone system described in the IEC 60079 set of standards – specifying hazardous areas and what equipment, electronic and otherwise, is authorised to be placed and used in them.

Explosion-protected cameras have traditionally been enclosed in a heavy-duty housing, typically made from aluminium or stainless steel, that prevents sparks from igniting a potentially combustible environment. Another method of explosion-protection has recently gained a lot of interest, where the cameras have been designed, tested and certified to ensure that the electronics cannot emit any sparks or overheat, meaning that there is no need for an external enclosure, which makes them far lighter, more cost efficient and easier to install. This type of camera can be installed in the less hazardous Zone 2, which makes up the majority of a hazardous site. These cameras can be placed in hazardous environments or areas where personnel should spend as little time as possible, owing to the risk of combustion, from which they can transmit high-quality images for remote visual monitoring.

Explosion-protected cameras have also benefited from the integration of data analytics, adding a new layer to traditional monitoring and enabling operators to unlock new insights into their operations.

They can be integrated with other monitoring technologies, such as heat and

thermal sensors, which can detect where environmental temperatures are too high or if a piece of equipment is running too hot. All combined, these technologies and solutions can help operators optimise their operations and carry out proactive tasks such as predictive maintenance and safety enhancements.

Adding value through smart surveillance

At a time when industry operators are working to extract as much value from any business investment as possible, many do not realise that the same can be said for their security and network surveillance infrastructure. Operators need to think long-term. For example, many may decide to place standard surveillance cameras outside the hazardous area they are monitoring. This may result in short-term savings, but it compromises accuracy by reducing the amount of detail those cameras can capture.

Operators need to think beyond the immediate results and consider the possibilities that come with today’s network surveillance solutions. They are a chance to create new efficiencies when it comes to their businesses, increasing their return on their initial investment

and adopting a proactive stance to security and safety in hazardous working environments. The integration of data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI)based technologies takes this a step further, as we have seen across all sectors, including critical infrastructure and smart city initiatives, where intelligent systems are opening up new avenues for efficiency.

The solutions can be further enhanced by adding explosion-protected network speakers, that can be triggered by events detected by the advanced algorithms in the cameras, alerting personnel on site of possible incidents.

The global market for explosionprotected cameras is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% through 2030, culminating in a value of $2.5 billion and driven by factors such as increased industrial automation, an emphasis on workplace safety and the need to comply with global safety standards. With the Middle East home to many critical industries where personnel work in hazardous environments, businesses can seize the opportunity to enhance their health and safety with proactive surveillance solutions that take their operations forward. axis.com

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 37

SAFEGUARDING DUBAI’S METRO NETWORK AGAINST lithium-ion battery fires

After an incident 14th February 2024 involving an e-scooter Fire on the metro, Keolis has been driven to mitigate the risks caused by lithium battery fires.

Keolis found AVD Fire’s products to be best suited for lithium battery fire containment.

300 AVD Lithium-ion battery fire blankets installed in all driverless trainsets Split across 51 stations that connect Dubai over 90km of track Transporting 150 million passengers per year

For further information on the full AVD range of lithium-ion battery fire solutions

www.avdfire.com

DATA ANALYTICS | AIRPORTS

DATA-DRIVEN DEFENCE The ability to harness data is transforming Middle East airport fire safety from reactive response to predictive protection

The Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) services stand as the first and last line of defence at any airport, a critical bastion against aviation disaster. Their very existence hinges on readiness and rapid response, ensuring that any incident is met with immediate, decisive action. Yet, in an era defined by vast amounts of information and sophisticated analytics, the role of ARFF is evolving beyond mere reaction.

Today, the focus is increasingly shifting towards leveraging data for predictive safety, a transformation particularly pertinent and impactful within the rapidly expanding and highly modernised aviation sector of the Middle East.

Historically, ARFF operations have been defined by their impressive ability to respond to and mitigate active incidents. However, as air traffic volumes surge, aircraft become larger and more complex, and airport infrastructures grow exponentially, the capacity for purely reactive measures begins to strain.

The imperative now is to use the rich tapestry of operational data to anticipate, prevent and continually refine response capabilities.

Actionable insights

The daily operations of an ARFF department generate a goldmine of information.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 39

DATA ANALYTICS | AIRPORTS

This data encompasses everything from detailed incident logs to comprehensive training records. Added to this are meticulous equipment maintenance logs for specialised vehicles and tools, realtime response times from initial alert to first action, detailed staffing levels, and even environmental factors like weather conditions. When systematically collected and analysed, these seemingly disparate data points begin to tell a powerful story, revealing patterns and insights crucial for enhancing overall airport safety.

Transforming this raw data into actionable intelligence is where the true power of a data-driven approach lies. By analysing historical incident data, ARFF management can identify recurring trends – perhaps specific types of alarms are more frequent in certain zones, or particular equipment models show a higher incidence of failure. This trend identification allows for targeted interventions, such as enhanced surveillance in identified hotspots or preventive maintenance schedules for vulnerable equipment, long before a critical failure occurs.

Smart resource deployment

Furthermore, data offers invaluable insights for resource optimisation. By understanding historical activity patterns, ARFF departments can make informed decisions about where to strategically position assets, allocate personnel, and even adjust staffing levels to match periods of higher risk or activity. For instance, knowing that specific aircraft types or peak traffic hours correlate with certain incident profiles enables more efficient pre-positioning of resources.

This approach also extends to predictive maintenance: leveraging equipment logs to identify components nearing their lifespan or units requiring proactive servicing, thereby ensuring optimal readiness and preventing costly, potentially dangerous, in-service failures.

The impact on training enhancement is also profound. Analysis can pinpoint gaps in current training programmes or highlight areas where crew members collectively struggle during exercises.

This enables the development of highly targeted, realistic drills and simulations that address identified weaknesses, fostering continuous improvement in team performance and individual competency.

Step up the challenge

Implementing a truly data-driven ARFF strategy is not without its challenges.

The sheer volume of data, ensuring its

“in an era defined by vast amounts of information and sophisticated analytics, the role of ARFF is evolving beyond mere reaction” 40 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

accuracy and consistency, and integrating it from disparate systems can be complex.

Moreover, the need for skilled analysts to interpret this data effectively is growing.

However, in the Middle East, these challenges are being met with proactive solutions. The region’s rapid aviation expansion, with new mega-airports and burgeoning air traffic, necessitates building robust data strategies from inception. The prevailing commitment to cutting-edge technology and adherence to the highest international safety standards also means that ARFF departments in the Middle East are uniquely positioned to embrace and lead in this data-driven revolution. The extreme climate and unique operational demands further underscore the value of data-driven insights for optimising resource utilisation and maintaining peak readiness.

The future of aviation fire safety is undeniably data-centric. This evolution from responding to predicting is not merely about enhancing efficiency; it represents a fundamental shift towards a more proactive, intelligent and ultimately safer future for airports and the millions who travel through them.

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Critical cover Lithium-Ion battery fires are an invisible but growing threat in airports. We find out more about the solution with AVD Fire Lithium-Ion batteries are becoming the majority power source of choice for countless devices, from e-scooters and mobility aids to airport transporters for both passengers and aircraft, this on top of the vast amounts of personal electronics carried by passengers each day. While efficient, these batteries carry the risk of fire. When they overheat or become damaged, Lithium-Ion batteries can enter what is known as ‘Thermal Runaway’ which can lead to the battery catching fire and causing severe damage to surroundings and even potential explosions.

This is not hypothetical.

On 14 February 2024, a Lithium-Ion battery inside an electric scooter caused a disruptive fire at one of the many Dubai Metro stations. The incident forced evacuations, delayed operations and raised awareness about the serious risks lithium batteries can cause in public transport.

Now, imagine this same scenario happening inside a busy international airport terminal.

From electric wheelchairs, EV charging points and charging scooters, mobility devices reliant on Lithium-Ion technology are increasingly present in airport terminals, lounges and gates. With no standardised containment measures in place, a single failure could put thousands of lives at risk.

What are the associated risks around the airport?

Airports represent critical infrastructure.

A single fire caused by a faulty LithiumIon battery can unleash a cascade of consequences: Toxic gas, fire & smoke: Lithium Ion battery fires burn far hotter and longer than conventional fires, potentially reaching over 1,000°C and producing toxic fumes. Lithium Ion batteries also generate their own oxygen, fuelling the fire for a longer burning time.

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Health risks: Passengers and staff exposed to smoke risk serious respiratory complications.

Operational shutdowns: Gate closures, emergency landings and even terminal evacuations.

Reputational damage: Viral footage of an uncontrolled airport fire can irreparably harm your brand image.

Environmental impact: Fires can damage HVAC systems, interior fittings and even contaminate the terminal air system.

What’s worse, many Lithium-Ion battery fires happen while devices are charging.

Without immediate containment, these fires spread quickly, often before fire crews can arrive.

AVD Fire Blankets – purpose-built for Lithium-Ion containment

AVD Fire Blankets are not just another fire safety product — they are an engineered fire containment solution. Specially designed for Lithium-Ion battery fires, AVD

Fire Blankets meet the extreme and prolonged heat demands caused by thermal runaway.

Recently deployed across the Dubai Metro network, AVD Fire supplied Lithium-Ion battery fire blankets to protect passengers, infrastructure and operational continuity in one of the most advanced rail systems in the world. This proven track record shows how transit leaders are turning to AVD to meet the growing threat of battery fires.

How AVD Fire Blankets work

When a fire erupts, time is critical.

AVD Fire Blankets are: Instantly deployable: Supplied in carry bags for rapid access by trained personnel.

Heat-resistant: Withstands extreme temperatures from Lithium-Ion battery fires.

Fire-suppressing: Smothers flames, contains the spread and limits oxygen intake.

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

AVD Lithium battery fire blankets offer a safe, effective and most importantly, a fast approach to mitigating the danger that a Lithium-Ion battery fire can cause.

Blankets are available in small, medium and large sizes, making them ideal for: Electric wheelchairs and scooters; Baggage transporters; Charging bays in lounges and terminals; Ground service vehicles; EVs used by airport security or logistics.

Why airports need AVD Fire Blankets — especially at charging bays Airport charging stations are often placed in: Lounges with limited airflow; Gate waiting areas filled with passengers; Mobility service zones with vulnerable users.

Each of these locations is considered a high-risk zone when Lithium-Ion batteries are left unattended while charging.

By placing AVD Fire Blankets around charging bays, you can create an immediate and passive fire suppression barrier. Trained staff can quickly contain the device, protect nearby people, and reduce the spread of flames and smoke before emergency teams arrive.

This approach is low-cost, fast to deploy and proven to be effective, offering a greater risk reduction with minimal disruption.

Dubai airport sees 250,000+ passengers every day, a passenger is likely to have multiple Lithium-Ion batteries with them, whether it be phones, tablets, laptops, headphones, or battery banks. It takes one battery to start what could result in a major incident.

You only need one incident to realise the risk

Dubai Metro’s decision came after a Lithium-Ion battery fire exposed vulnerability in their system. Fortunately, the damage was contained — but what if it hadn’t been?

In high-density environments like airports, you don’t get second chances.

Passenger transporters with limited mobility cannot be evacuated quickly.

Aircraft boarding and departures are tightly timed — one disruption causes a ripple.

Fire crews may not reach the source before the damage spreads.

Investing in AVD Fire Blankets now means you’re ahead of the threat, not reacting to it too late.

Smart investment, safer infrastructure

AVD isn’t just supplying a product — we’re delivering a complete fire safety solution: On-site training for your staff; Easy logistics with mobile carry kits; Scalable deployment across terminals and depots; Proven performance from one of the world’s most advanced metro networks.

Your airport isn’t generic. Your fire safety shouldn’t be either.

Designed for the demands of public transport environments AVD Fire Blankets are used by: Transit authorities; Aviation safety teams; Emergency responders; EV fleet operators; Public venue safety managers.

They are especially relevant in areas where battery-powered mobility aids are used, such as: Assisted boarding services; Long-haul gate transporters; Disabled passenger areas.

Airports must be inclusive. But inclusion must also be safe. Ensuring that LithiumIon battery fires from mobility devices can be contained without harming passengers is critical to modern airport operations.

Why you should act now AVD Fire Blankets are fieldproven in one of the world’s most modern rail systems.

Designed for Lithium-Ion fires, not retrofitted from generalpurpose solutions.

Scalable for airports, stations, and terminals.

Immediate protection, with rapid deployment and smoke suppression.

Protect vulnerable passengers, critical infrastructure and operations.

Don’t let your airport be the next headline. Equip your staff.

Safeguard your terminals. Trust AVD.

Contact AVD Fire – be prepared, be protected Want to discuss how AVD Fire Blankets can be deployed across your airport terminals, EV stations or transport hubs?

Phone: +44 (0)1782 209538 Email: info@avdfire.com Website: www.avdfire.com

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 43

MAXIMISING EFFICIENCY, MINIMISING LIFETIME COSTS Not all foam proportioners are the same. The requirements for use in an extinguishing system depend on many individual factors. Those who plan with foresight can save considerable costs in the long term.

Check out our Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Calculator to find out how a FireDos foam proportioner can become your cost saver, minimising direct and indirect costs over its lifetime.

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Engineering efficiency in fire protection: the role of value engineering in smarter solutions

By Anoop Premalal, Sales & Service Manager Middle East, FireDos In today’s dynamic and evolving economic landscape, smart investment decisions are more important than ever. Organisations continuously seek innovative and cost-effective solutions to maximise financial efficiency and drive sustainable value. At the heart of this strategy lies value engineering – a structured methodology that optimises functionality while minimising costs, ensuring businesses achieve their objectives without compromising quality or performance.

Far from being merely a cost-cutting strategy, value engineering focuses on enhancing return on investment while maintaining optimal performance and longevity. In the firefighting industry, this concept has gained significant relevance, as firefighting systems must meet stringent safety standards without inflating operational expenses.

Understanding value engineering in firefighting

Value, in simple terms, can be defined as:

Function+Quality Value = Total Cost of Operation (TCO) Function refers to the intended purpose and effectiveness of a product or service.

Quality measures its reliability and user satisfaction.

Total Cost of Operation (TCO) accounts for initial investment costs, operational expenses and maintenance costs over the product’s lifecycle.

Figure 1: FireDos proportioner operating principle

The fundamental objective of value engineering is to achieve the required function at the lowest possible cost while maintaining quality, reliability and performance. Originally rooted in manufacturing, this approach has evolved and found applications in various industries, including fire protection systems, where it plays a pivotal role in optimising firefighting technology. By applying these principles, fire protection solutions can reduce expenses while maintaining strict compliance with fire codes, industry standards and client requirements without compromising safety or operational efficiency.

This process involves a comprehensive analysis of fire protection systems, identification of potential cost-saving opportunities, and implementing alternative solutions that maintain or improve performance and safety standards.

Foam proportioning systems and value engineering To combat various fire hazards, businesses globally have been utilising

foam as an extinguishing agent.

Traditionally, they have relied on conventional foam proportioning systems, such as bladder tanks with wide-range proportioners or gear-driven pumps, which return excess foam agent to the storage tank.

In 1994, FireDos pioneered a revolutionary proportioning system powered by firefighting water, utilising a water motor-driven piston pump (figure 1). This innovative design offers several added benefits: • Fully mechanical operation: Eliminates reliance on electric or dieselpowered drives, ensuring reliability in emergencies.

• No calibration required: FireDos proportioners can handle both low and high viscosity foam concentrates without any requirement for calibration, unlike venturi-designed proportioners that require adjustments when there is a change in the foam concentrate type.

• Consistent performance: The proportioning rate remains steady across varying flow rates and back

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 45

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Figure 2: FireDos monitor

•

•

• •

•

pressures, unaffected by intermittent operation of output devices. The latest FM approvals for FireDos validate their suitability for fluorine-free, highviscosity foam concentrates.

Eco-friendly testing: Equipped with foam agent return lines for costeffective and environmental friendly testing of the proportioning rate without producing foam or premix.

Unpressurised foam tank: Enables continuous firefighting operations, as users can refill the tank whenever needed.

Simple installation: The unit comes fully assembled and engineered for effortless on-site installation.

Efficient commissioning and maintenance friendly: Commissioning requires only a few hours from initial priming to comprehensive testing, regardless of flow rate. Likewise, maintenance is minimal, consisting of a few essential steps that can be readily executed by a qualified professional, thereby reducing the need for significant maintenance investment.

Approvals: The FireDos stationary units are FM approved as a variable viscosity water driven foam proportioner.

This provides the clients a distinct advantage when comparing to the traditional venturi proportioners where the foam type must be matched to proportioner and discharge device.

This means any changes would need re-approval.

These functions and design efficiencies contribute to significantly lower TCO, making FireDos’ water-driven foam proportioners a value-engineered, longterm solution in foam firefighting system.

Innovations in fire monitor design Another vital product in the field of fire safety and prevention are the fire

46 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

Figure 3: ‘Oval Flat Design’ significantly optimises the flow leading to a more consistent flow pattern

monitors which have an integral role in protecting people, property and the environment. Engineered to deliver large volumes of water or firefighting foam over long distances, fire monitors enable effective firefighting in high-risk or hardto-reach areas while keeping operators at a safe distance.

However, not all fire monitors perform equally, as design variations significantly impact their efficiency. The key measure of effectiveness is the throw range of the jet, which depends on the available inlet flow and pressure.

FireDos has revolutionised this aspect with its innovative, flow-optimised ‘Oval Flat Design’ (figure 3), engineered to minimise pressure loss while maximising throw distance and reach. This superior efficiency means that, at the same inlet pressure, FireDos monitors outperform conventional designs, delivering extended coverage.

From a value engineering perspective, this optimisation translates into tangible benefits for clients. With reduced pressure loss, the required inlet pressure for these monitors is lower, allowing for the selection of fire pumps with lower rated pressures. The enhanced throw range allows monitors to be positioned further from the hazard, reducing the risk to firefighting operators during fire emergencies.

FireDos monitors are also available with adjustable nozzles that enable seamless flow rate transition during operation. This allows operators to modify application rates in real time

without needing to shut down the system to adjust the nozzle orifice. As a result, critical firefighting response time is significantly reduced, ensuring rapid and efficient fire suppression in emergency situations.

FireDos monitors are engineered for durability, featuring a robust design constructed from cast seawater-resistant aluminium alloy with an additional hard coating to enhance longevity. Designed for minimal maintenance, all seals are permanently lubricated, ensuring longterm reliability. The low friction resistance on the seals allows for effortless operation, even after extended periods of inactivity, making these monitors highly dependable in demanding firefighting scenarios.

In an industry where safety, reliability and cost-effectiveness are paramount, value engineering has emerged as a vital approach in shaping more effective firefighting solutions. By integrating strategic engineering principles, businesses can enhance system efficiency without compromising performance or safety. FireDos exemplifies this innovation, offering advanced solutions that optimise firefighting technology while reducing operational costs and extending system longevity. As fire protection continues to evolve, embracing valueengineered advancements will be key to ensuring sustainable, high-performance systems that meet the demands of modern firefighting. firedos.com

SAUDI BUILDING CODE | MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

Building Safer Futures On 30 June 2025, the new 2024 edition of the Saudi Building Code (SBC) became mandatory. Peter Stephenson, fire safety solutions expert, explores what SBC 201 and SBC 801 mean for fire and life safety in Saudi Arabia For design teams working in the construction, design and fire safety sectors across the Kingdom, this update marks more than just a regulatory shift — it’s a real opportunity to raise the bar for how we protect people, property and progress. The Saudi Building Code National Committee released the 2024 edition of the Building Code based on Ministerial Decision No. (181) dated 31/12/2024, as a reference version until 30/6/2025. If a project had received approvals (e.g., schematic design, building permits, or Civil Defense endorsement) based on SBC 2018, it could proceed without needing to revise designs to comply with SBC 2024 – even if construction continues beyond 30 June 2025 — provided that approval was obtained prior to that date.

48 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

Two of the most important volumes impacting on fire safety in both the 2018 and the new suite of codes are SBC 201 – General Building Code and SBC 801 – Fire Protection Code. These codes are central to ensuring fire and life safety in our built environment, and they reflect both international best practices and the unique risks and needs of construction in Saudi Arabia.

Let’s walk through the changes – and why it matters.

massive engineering and urban planning undertakings. To support this vision safely, the building codes need to evolve, too.

The new SBC 2024 is a leap forward in aligning with updated international codes (like the IBC and IFC) while tailoring provisions to local challenges: harsh climate conditions, mixed-use mega developments, complex high-rise structures and fast-paced urban expansion.

Why the update?

Starting with the foundation: SBC 201 – General Building Code

Saudi Arabia is growing fast. Giga-projects like the Red Sea Project & Amaala, NEOM (The Line, Trojena, Sindalah & Oxagon), Qiddiya, Diriyah Gate & New Murabba, Jeddah Central and Rua Al Madinah aren’t just headlines – they’re

SBC 201 lays the groundwork.

It’s the go-to document for anyone designing or constructing a building, and many of its chapters directly impact fire and life safety.

SAUDI BUILDING CODE | MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

Occupancy Matters (Chapter 3) Every building is different – a hospital doesn’t face the same risks as a warehouse. That’s why SBC 201 starts by classifying buildings by use (assembly, residential, business, etc.).

This classification isn’t just administrative – it drives key fire protection decisions, like what systems are required and how people need to be evacuated.

Types of Construction and Fire Resistance (Chapters 6 & 7) Here, it’s all about how a building is built – what materials are used and how they hold up in a fire. The new code refines construction types (Types I through V) and links them directly to fire-resistance ratings. For high-rises, critical infrastructure or public venues, expect a push toward non-combustible construction and more robust compartmentation strategies.

Interior Finishes and Smoke Control (Chapter 8) In a fire, the internal wall and ceiling linings can impact fire development and spread just as much as the structure itself.

Materials now need to meet stricter flamespread and smoke-development criteria, especially in public areas like lobbies, corridors and stairwells.

Fire Protection Systems (Chapter 9) Automatic sprinklers, smoke detectors, standpipe systems, fire alarms – SBC 201 defines when and where these systems are required. The updated code strengthens requirements for larger buildings, mixed-use occupancies and special facilities like healthcare and hospitality.

“Saudi Arabia is growing fast ... to support this vision safely, the building codes need to evolve, too.”

System Design and Maintenance (Chapters 9 & 10) Where SBC 201 says “you need a sprinkler system,” SBC 801 says how to install it, what standards it must meet and how often it must be tested and maintained.

Expect more detailed mandates around fire alarm zones, monitoring, emergency voice systems and fire pump performance.

Fire Department Access (Chapter 5) Fire safety isn’t just what happens inside — responders need safe, reliable access to buildings. SBC 801 adds clearer guidance on fire lanes, turning radii, building access points and onsite water supply requirements.

This is particularly relevant in large developments or remote areas.

Special Risks and Hazardous Uses (Chapters 50–67) SBC 801 tackles high-risk occupancies head-on. That includes industrial processes, flammable storage, laboratories and places of public assembly. Whether you’re dealing with a lithium battery warehouse or a fireworks event space, you’ll find specific provisions to mitigate risk.

Getting Out Safely (Chapter 10) Perhaps the most human-centred part of the code – means of egress – lays out how people can safely leave a building in an emergency. The new edition refines calculations for occupant load, stair width, travel distance and redundancy, with a renewed emphasis on ensuring accessible routes for all users.

Performance-Based Design (Chapter 13) For projects that don’t fit neatly into prescriptive rules – such as those pushing architectural boundaries or creating new building typologies – SBC 801 allows for performance-based alternatives.

This opens the door to fire engineering approaches where you can demonstrate, through modelling and risk analysis, that your design is as safe (or safer) than prescriptive compliance.

Going deeper: SBC 801 – Fire Code

What it means in practice

While SBC 201 gives us the framework, SBC 801 is the fire safety deep-dive. It mirrors much of the IFC but is tailored for Saudi applications, and it’s where system designers and fire engineers will find the technical backbone of protection.

With these updates, we’ll see: More robust fire protection systems in high-rise and mixed-use buildings.

Stronger compartmentation and fireresistance standards, particularly for critical infrastructure.

Improved egress planning, including accessible evacuation routes.

Greater emphasis on system testing and maintenance, placing responsibility on building owners and facility managers.

Better coordination with Civil Defense authorities, who will play a key role in code enforcement and approvals.

For engineers and architects, the new code means earlier integration of fire safety into conceptual design.

For contractors, it demands tighter control over materials and installations.

And for developers, compliance becomes a matter of not just ticking boxes, but building reputational and operational resilience.

Looking ahead

Change is never easy, but it’s necessary.

The new Saudi Building Code 2024 represents a maturing of the industry and a national commitment to safety and sustainability.

Now it is time to implement the new code, and be prepared by: Training design and construction teams on the new requirements.

Reviewing existing projects in design to assess code alignment.

Engaging early with authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) for guidance and approvals.

Embracing digital tools that support code compliance, documentation and system monitoring.

These aren’t just codes – they’re the blueprint for protecting lives. In a region with so much visionary growth, getting fire and life safety right is a shared responsibility.

SBC 201 and SBC 801 give us the framework; it’s now up to us to bring it to life, building safer, smarter and more resilient communities across Saudi Arabia.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 49

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS | CODE COMPLIANCE

Strengthening Emergency Response Peter Stephenson, fire safety solutions expert, looks at how emergency response in the region can be strengthened by integrating it with NFPA 1710 and Saudi Arabia’s private firefighting regulations A critical part of fire and life safety is not just prevention – it’s response.

While building codes like SBC 201 and SBC 801 (see overleaf) focus on design, construction and systems, a fire-safe city also relies on fast, professional emergency response capabilities.

This is where the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 1710 and Saudi Arabia’s evolving private firefighting regulations come into play.

Deployment model: Fire stations should be distributed to provide overlapping coverage and account for traffic, geography and occupancy risk.

For design teams working on both giga and mega projects, or large industrial zones, NFPA 1710 provides a benchmark to assess whether onsite firefighting teams and infrastructure are truly prepared to respond to incidents in line with international best practice.

NFPA 1710: Setting the standard for fire department operations

Private firefighting in Saudi Arabia: A growing mandate

NFPA 1710 sets performance benchmarks for career fire departments, covering everything from response times and crew staffing to training and deployment.

Although it’s a US-based standard, it’s increasingly being used as a best practice reference in Saudi Arabia, particularly in new city developments and industrial zones where emergency response must be tightly integrated with fire safety design.

Key principles of NFPA 1710 that are relevant for Saudi projects include: Response time goals: 4 minutes for the first engine company, and 8 minutes for a full effective response force.

Crew configuration: Minimum of 4 firefighters per engine (5–6 in high-risk areas).

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Alongside civil defense authorities, many large developments and industrial entities in Saudi Arabia are now required – or are choosing – to establish private firefighting teams. These teams are typically licensed under Saudi Civil Defense regulations and are governed by strict rules for: Staffing levels and qualifications.

Training frequency and curriculum.

Apparatus and equipment standards.

Inspection and reporting to authorities.

For instance, a large project, facility, or mixed-use development may need to maintain its own fully staffed and equipped fire station and emergency response teams, operating under Civil Defense supervision. These teams may

serve as first responders, providing initial suppression and rescue before government fire services arrive.

As of 2024, regulatory guidance increasingly references NFPA standards (such as 1710 and 1550) for: Occupational safety of firefighters.

Emergency medical services.

Command structure and incident management.

Merging code compliance with emergency preparedness

The real synergy happens when the building codes (SBC 201/801) and response frameworks (NFPA 1710/private teams) are coordinated from day one.

Key considerations include: Hydrant placement, fire lanes and access roads must support both SBC 801 and operational response standards.

Pre-incident planning – often overlooked – becomes a critical bridge between design documents and operational readiness.

Joint exercises between private firefighting teams and Civil Defense can test how well systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control) integrate with real-world response.

As Saudi Arabia’s built environment embraces the implementation of the Saudi Building Code 2024 with projects and buildings becoming more complex, this integration of passive, active and operational fire protection will be a major differentiator between merely compliant buildings and truly resilient developments.

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SPRINKLERS | PERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Delivering water where it is needed While it may seem like a simple statement, it is not at all simple to ensure the right amount of water reaches every sprinkler in a fire suppression system. Len Swantek, Director of Global Regulatory Compliance at Victaulic, explores sprinkler fitting connections and the attributes that impact the amount of water available at each sprinkler

In fire protection system design, there are many factors that must be evaluated to ensure adequate protection for each building space. These include, but are not limited to: occupancy type; size (volume) of the area to be protected; type of furnishings; commodity being stored; and special hazards in addition to material flammability ratings. The system designer examines the available water supply and source and performs hydraulic calculations to verify the pipe and pump sizing, required pressures and inherent friction losses throughout each zone in the system.

NFPA-13 – Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems is one of the most

52 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

commonly used fire safety technical specifications for sprinkler system design. Referring to paragraph 28.2.4.2, which specifies the hydraulic calculation procedures specific to the density/ area design method: “The density/ area method can be generally defined as a given amount of water (sprinkler discharge rate) over a specified area.

This given amount of water is known as the design density, which is intended to provide cooling and wet adjacent surfaces with the goal of controlling an unintended fire until it can be fully extinguished by emergency services. The area is the expected area of sprinkler operation, or remote area for which the given

amount of water (design density) must be applied. For water demand calculations, it’s assumed all sprinklers in this area will operate. This area is often adjusted for things like quick-response sprinklers, sloped ceilings, dry-pipe, double interlock systems, and hightemperature sprinklers.”

Measuring flow characteristics

In sprinkler system design, the K-Factor (or discharge coefficient) is a critical value that represents the flow of water through a fire sprinkler at a given pressure.

K-Factor is defined by the equation Q = K x √P, where Q is the flow rate (in units of gallons per minute or litres per minute), K is the K-Factor (a constant specific to the sprinkler) and P is the system pressure (in units of pounds per square inch or bar). Essentially, the K-Factor determines how much water will discharge based on the system pressure.

The K-Factor is critically important because it helps the fire system designer select the correct sprinkler to meet specific fire protection requirements.

Choosing a sprinkler with the appropriate K-Factor ensures that sufficient water will be delivered to suppress or control a fire, without overwhelming the system or causing unnecessary water damage.

Sprinklers having a higher K-Factor value will deliver more water at lower

SPRINKLERS | PERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

pressures, which is useful in systems designed to protect larger areas or where higher hazards are involved. Conversely, sprinklers having a lower K-Factor are more suited to lighter hazards where less water is required to suppress or control a fire. Properly balancing the K-Factor across an entire system is crucial for maintaining effective coverage, system efficiency, compliance with local and regional codes and ultimately ensuring the safety and protection of lives and property.

Other performance factors

The performance of a fire sprinkler system can be significantly impacted by the type of fittings used to connect the sprinklers to the piping system. Fittings such as elbows, tees, reducers and couplings introduce additional friction losses into the system. The term friction loss refers to the loss of pressure that occurs as water flows through pipes, fittings, valves and other components.

As water moves through the system, it passes over the internal surfaces of the piping and any obstacles it encounters, such as bends, tees, rough surfaces and weld seams. The resulting resistance reduces the flow velocity and reduces the pressure available at the point of discharge at the sprinkler waterway.

Friction loss affects the pressure and flow available at each sprinkler, which are critical factors in ensuring the system delivers sufficient water to control or suppress a fire effectively.

Each type of fitting inherently causes a minor friction loss that accumulates in the system, measured in terms of equivalent length of straight pipe. Some fittings, particularly tight radius elbows or abrupt reducers, create more turbulence and resistance to water flow than smoother and more gradual transition fittings. Over time, if a system uses a large number of

high-resistance fittings, the cumulative friction loss can significantly reduce the pressure at the sprinklers, leading to lower discharge rates and potentially inadequate fire protection performance.

The material and internal design of fittings also matter. For example, traditional cast iron fittings may have a coarse or rough internal surface, which inherently increases friction loss compared to grooved or stainless-steel fittings. Additionally, improperly installed or poorly maintained fittings can leak or fail over time, further compromising system reliability.

System designers must account for all fittings when performing their hydraulic calculations to ensure that the system maintains sufficient pressure and flow across all operating sprinklers. Using high-quality, low-resistance fittings, minimising unnecessary changes in direction and carefully selecting the pipe sizes can help optimise system performance. Proper fitting selection and installation are crucial steps in maintaining the integrity, efficiency and effectiveness of a fire sprinkler system.

Examples of common sprinkler connections

Regulatory oversight

The testing and certification agencies (for example, UL LLC and FM Approvals) also evaluate the amount of water available at each sprinkler. Through extensive product testing and follow-up examinations, these laboratories conduct a series of flow tests separately with each sprinkler model and stated K-Factor rating in accordance with sprinkler performance standards (UL-199: Standard for Safety of Automatic Sprinklers for Fire Protection and FM-2000: Examination Standard for Automatic Sprinklers for Fire Protection), as well as with each fitting manufacturer’s products in accordance with established standards (UL-213: Standard for Rubber Gasketed Fittings for Fire-Protection Service and FM-1920: Approval Standard for Pipe Couplings and Fittings for Aboveground Fire Protection Systems). This ensures the fitting connection at each sprinkler will not produce significant flow restrictions or accumulative losses. In recent years, these governing fire protection testing and certification standards have undergone revisions to include additional water flow requirements for K-Factor and friction loss measurements.

As a result of these revisions, the fitting manufacturers submitted their products for re-qualification testing to validate compliance with the revised flow requirements to maintain their active Listing status. It is through these rigorous testing protocols that the sprinkler and fitting manufacturers have the best opportunity to fine-tune their product designs and demonstrate their enhanced performance in the agencies’ laboratories. victaulic.com

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 53

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EVENTS | INTERSEC SAUDI ARABIA

INTERSEC SAUDI ARABIA PREVIEW Intersec Saudi Arabia returns with record exhibition space showcasing the innovations securing the Kingdom’s future

7

The seventh edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia, featuring increased government support, will be held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) from 29 September to 1 October.

This market-leading exhibition will showcase innovations in security, safety and fire protection, hosting industry experts from around the world.

+25%

The size of the exhibition has increased by 25% following a record-breaking edition in 2024.

27,000+ Over 27,000 visitors expected to attend in 2025.

56 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

Intersec Saudi Arabia, the premier industry platform for security, safety and fire protection, will return to the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) from 29 September to 1 October.

Aligning global innovation with national priorities, Intersec Saudi Arabia brings together government authorities, industrial leaders and international solution providers to secure the infrastructure, environments and communities building the nation’s prosperous future.

Organised by 1st Arabia and licensed

by Messe Frankfurt, Intersec Saudi Arabia will be held in association with a range of government entities under the theme ‘Securing progress, igniting safety: Unveiling tomorrow’s solutions for Saudi Arabia’.

With a series of giga-projects underway in Saudi Arabia, including Neom, Qiddiya and Red Sea Global, and major global events on the horizon, such as Expo 2030

and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the Kingdom is undergoing a significant transformation.

Together, these developments mark a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s evolution, positioning it as a key player in global tourism, sports and industry.

Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “Intersec Saudi Arabia provides an important platform for decision makers across Saudi Arabia’s major projects to connect with global innovators and work together to build a secure, futureready environment. We look forward to facilitating important business connections that support the country’s growth and long-term success.”

After a record-breaking edition in 2024, this year, Intersec Saudi Arabia will showcase over 370 exhibitors from more than 35 countries, with over 27,000 visitors anticipated to attend. Intersec Saudi Arabia will feature over 1,000 brands across seven halls, and the exhibition space has been extended by

EVENTS | INTERSEC SAUDI ARABIA

25% this year to cover 13,908 net square metres, reflecting the growing interest in the event.

Intersec Saudi Arabia now features CPD-certified content theatres, including the Future Security and Safety Summit Powered by ASIS, and the Fire Protection & Technology Summit. The event will also introduce a Thought Leadership Pavilion and see the return of The Premium Club, providing a host of benefits for select buyers and influencers.

The Future Security and Safety Summit will feature the latest insights and engaging discussions on emerging global threats, crisis response strategies and responsible AI innovation among other vital industry topics. The highlevel speakers for the summit include representatives from FIFA, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Company, Kearney and Saudi Aramco, among many others.

The Fire Protection and Technology Summit at Intersec Saudi Arabia will gather the most prominent fire and emergency service leaders from across the region to address key challenges, opportunities, standards, policies and technologies. During the summit, attendees will gain valuable insights from Saudi Civil Defense,

“The conference and events element of Intersec Saudi Arabia continues to grow each year and will once again bring together the brightest minds in security, safety and fire protection from around the world” International Maritime Industries and AESG alongside other industry experts.

Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director, Intersec Saudi Arabia, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “The conference and events element of Intersec Saudi Arabia continues to grow each year and will once again bring together the brightest minds in security, safety and fire protection from around the world. The event will offer interactive showcases, live demonstrations and engaging panel discussions, all tailored to the unique needs of the Kingdom.”

Intersec Saudi Arabia will be held in Halls 1-7 at RICEC and a purpose-built outdoor area. The event comprises five product sectors, which include Commercial & Perimeter Security, Homeland Security & Policing, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health and Cybersecurity.

CONTACT Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director riham.sedik@uae.messefrankfurt.com For more information visit: www.intersec-ksa.com

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025 | 57

IWMA | WATER MIST SYSTEMS

Statistics reveal efficacy of water mist systems UK statistics spanning 2018-2024 underline just how valuable water mist systems can be in controlling fires.

Analysing over 4,000 fire incidents in England (2018–2024), the data* from the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government shows water mist systems have 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 real 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 addressing reliability further 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 evidencebased fire safety and will continue supporting industry-wide improvements in system performance and standards. www.iwma.net *Referred data is publicly available from the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

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www.iwma.net/iwmc 58 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | JULY 2025

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