Issue 71 2026|Q3 by Fire Middle East Magazine

ISSUE 71 • 2026|Q3

FIREMIDDLEEASTMAG.COM

THE MAGAZINE FOR FIRE PREVENTION, FIREFIGHTING & RESCUE

THE FIREFIGHTING STANDARD THAT CAME ASHORE

The global leader in marine firefighting, bringing offshore-grade reliability to the mainland

THE NEXT FIRE SERVICE

BREATHING SPACE

LESSONS FROM THE FIRELINE

Inside the UAE’s drive to put AI into operation

Integrating air replenishment into building design

What the Middle East can learn from Europe’s wildfire response

Well prepared for the heat of the moment

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Industrial Fire Team Leader 16-20 November 2026 07-11 June 2027 18-22 October 2027

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. 2026 For subscriptions and advertising enquires, or for further information on the magazine visit our website at: firemiddleeastmag.com

COMING TOGETHER IN CHALLENGING TIMES The recent events in Riyadh and across the Middle East have brought a period of uncertainty for our region and our industry. The resulting cancellation of Intersec Saudi Arabia and the postponement of the Fire Middle East Conference are disappointing developments, representing a significant loss of opportunities for our community to come together, share knowledge and strengthen the relationships that help drive our sector forward. These events are more than dates in the industry calendar. They provide a valuable space for professionals to exchange ideas, discuss challenges and work collectively towards a safer built environment. While we are saddened that these gatherings cannot take place as planned, the importance of our industry’s work remains unchanged. Fire safety depends on collaboration, shared expertise and a continued commitment to protecting people and property.

We stand with our colleagues, partners and readers across the region during this challenging time. When circumstances allow us to come together again, I hope we will do so with renewed determination, stronger connections and a shared ambition to move our industry forward. In the meantime, Fire Middle East remains committed to keeping our community informed, connected and engaged.

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

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 3

CONTENTS ISSUE 71 • 2026 | Q3

REGULARS Foreword from the Editor

07 Regional news

The latest fire safety and protection news

12 International news

23 Fire Middle East Conference

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

The Fire Middle East Conference has been postponed to 1 June 2027 – but with more time to plan and perfect the event it’s set to be a date worth the wait

95 A day in the life

27 Commanding the agent

14 Product showcase

Faris Alzahrani speaks with Salman Al Qahtani, Head of the Safety Engineering Division, Saudi Council of Engineers, about the gap between fire-safety design and reality on site

100 Diary

Diary dates for forthcoming fire safety exhibitions, conferences and events

FEATURES 16 Cover story

David Jackson, Land-Based Director at Fire Fighting Systems (FFS), spoke with us about how decades of offshore engineering continue to shape the company’s approach to industrial firefighting

21 SFPE relaunches in Saudi Arabia

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) KSA Chapter has officially relaunched in Saudi Arabia, marking an exciting new chapter for the Kingdom’s growing fire and life safety community

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Dr Ing Holger de Vries reports from Sicily on what Italy’s experience of vegetation fires could teach fire and emergency services elsewhere

58 How space is changing wildfire response

03 Up front

Fire-related news and advancements from around the globe

52 Lessons from the fireline

Dr Humaid Al Ali, Deputy Director of Fire Affairs at UAE’s Ministry of Interior, examines the landmark national directive to shift half of government services to Agentic AI within two years – and sets out how fire leaders can turn a mandate into operational transformation

40 The human element

Bob Rea, QFSM, fire service veteran considers how to build a healthier, more resilient fire service

47 Can digital monitoring improve confidence in foam proportioning systems?

Stuart Phythian, Regional Director Middle East, Africa, SE Asia, Oceania at FireDos, discusses the growing focus on system testing, operational readiness and digital records in foam proportioning systems, and the development of a digital monitoring layer for mechanical proportioners

How can fire agencies stay ahead of wildfires across the Middle East’s vast and difficult terrain? Thomas Gruebler, Co-Founder of OroraTech and CEO of OroraTechUSA, looks at how satellite intelligence is moving the focus from simply detecting fires to understanding what happens next

62 When the air runs outs

Megan von Wedell, Business Development & Sales Manager at Johnson Controls, says it’s time to rethink firefighter breathing air as essential infrastructure in tall and complex buildings

66 Keeping the lights on

When fire strikes a power station, data centre or transit tunnel, the consequences reach far beyond the site boundary. Designing for resilience means planning for continuity of service as well as life safety. By Peter Stephenson, Beng (Hons), FIFireE, international Fire and Life Safety Engineer

71 CFD: Risk tool or tick box?

Are we using CFD to understand fire risk – or simply to obtain approval? asks Vinay Deshpande, Founder and Managing Director, Vitruvius Fire Safety Consulting FZ-LLC

62 76 Technical expert. Effective trainer?

In fire and life-safety teams, the most experienced technical specialist is often asked to train others. That can work well – but only if technical credibility is matched by the ability to structure learning, check understanding and turn procedures into reliable performance says Matthew Reynolds, Education and Training Academy Group Ltd

81 A new dimension in fire safety training

Emerging technology is showing how the sector can reduce fire risk and increase capability. The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) takes a closer look at how virtual reality in fire safety training could lead to a better fire future

THIS ISSUE’S PARTNERS & CONTRIBUTORS Dr Holger de Vries Operational Fire Officer

Dr Holger de Vries has been an Operational Fire Officer in Germany since 1986, mainly with Hamburg F&RS.

Thomas Gruebler Co-Founder, OroraTech

Thomas Gruebler is the Co-Founder of OroraTech with the mission of improving global wildfire resilience through satellite-based infrared monitoring and real-time data services.

Vinay Deshpande

Founder and Managing Director of Vitruvius Fire Safety Consulting FZ LLC

Vinay Deshpande has over 30 years of international experience in fire protection engineering, code consultancy and life safety strategy.

85 Beyond the first day

Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi explores how organisations can transform onboarding from a “tick-the-box” exercise into a competitive advantage by aligning it with ESG principles, digital transformation and behavioural safety

VOCO HOTEL, RIYADH | 01.06.2027

89 Building the evidence

Donel Dippi, Head of Technical and Compliance for Siderise Middle East, India and Asia Pacific, looks at how manufacturer inspections can support approvals

93 Review: Milipol Qatar

SILVER SPONSOR

All the news from Milipol Qatar, held this October

99 Review: International Water Mist Conference

BRONZE SPONSOR

Find out more about the recent annual conference from IWMA

BRONZE SPONSOR

PROMOTIONAL FEATURES 19 Advanced 25 Godiva 32 Potter 36 Kidde Fenwal 57 Apollo

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FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 5

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REGIONAL NEWS

IN BRIEF OMAN Oman recorded 5,560 fire incidents in 2025, an increase of approximately 12% compared with the previous year, according to figures from the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

KUWAIT Kuwait Fire Force received 2,159 fire reports during the first half of 2026, as part of 8,751 emergency calls recorded nationwide. The fire reports comprised: 629 incidents in residential areas; 314 in non-residential areas; 432 involving land transport; 778 in other locations; five air incidents and one land incident.

DUBAI

Intersec postponed to 2027 Messe Frankfurt Saudi Arabia has postponed Intersec Saudi Arabia 2026, which was due to take place from 16-18 November, with the next edition now planned for October 2027. Exact dates for next year are to be announced shortly. The organisers said the decision followed ongoing assessment of the evolving situation, in consultation with government partners and stakeholders locally and internationally. They cited the safety and wellbeing of customers, partners and staff, as well as the need to ensure the event delivers the international scale and quality expected of the Intersec brand. The event’s organisers said: “The focus now moves to returning with a stronger, larger and more impactful event in 2027, reflecting the ambition of the Saudi market and creating the right conditions for global participation, strong business outcomes and a high-quality event experience.” Other regional events have also had to postpone their events, including the Fire Middle East Conference – which has been rescheduled to June 2027 – and the World Firefighters Games 2026 which was due to take place in Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia in November.

Authorities in the UAE have completed the installation of large wire cages around fuel tanks at Dubai International Airport (DXB), adding a physical protection measure around critical aviation fuel infrastructure.

ABU DHABI Bronto Skylift is set to deliver seven new firefighting aerial platforms to Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority, working with its UAE partner, Bristol Fire Engineering Industries. The order – which includes a 60-metre aerial platform and six water and foam towers – is set to be delivered in 2027.

UAE The World Fire Congress 2026 concluded in London early September, with the reaffirmation and signing of its Statement of Founding Principles and the formal handover to the United Arab Emirates, which will host the next Congress in 2028.

SHARJAH’S AMAN SYSTEM PROCESSES MORE THAN 231,000 FIRE ALARMS IN ONE QUARTER Sharjah’s Aman Early Warning System processed 231,698 fire alarm signals during the first quarter of 2026, including 41 confirmed fire incidents, according to SANED Facility Management. The system is a smart fire-safety network that connects building fire alarm systems to a central monitoring platform, enabling alerts to be transmitted to the relevant authorities to support faster emergency response.

Hamid Al Zarouni, Managing Director of SANED, said the firstquarter figures demonstrated the system’s role in supporting early response and protecting lives and property: “At SANED, we continue to develop the Aman system and strengthen its integration with relevant authorities through the adoption of the latest smart solutions and advanced technologies,” with upgrades intended to improve response efficiency and its contribution to Sharjah’s preventive safety infrastructure.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 7

REGIONAL NEWS

UAE FRAMEWORK AIMS TO MEASURE THE WIDER IMPACT OF FIRES The UAE’s Federal Authority for Ambulance and Civil Defence has presented a new framework designed to measure the direct and indirect consequences of fires, extending assessment beyond conventional operational indicators such as response times and the time taken to bring incidents under control. The Global Fire Incident Footprint Framework was presented at a specialised forum in the UAE on 8 October. The framework is intended to provide a more comprehensive picture of how fires affect individuals, communities, businesses and essential services. It covers four dimensions: economic impact; human and environmental impact; critical systems; and trust and global reputation. Under this approach, the assessment of a fire would extend beyond the immediate incident to consider longer-term

consequences. These include financial losses, health and environmental effects, disruption to business continuity and critical services, as well as the impact on public confidence. The framework aims to support more effective prevention, response and recovery policies by helping authorities understand the broader consequences of fire incidents. It reflects an approach that considers not only how quickly an emergency service responds, but also the wider effects of an incident on society and the economy. The Authority said the framework forms part of wider efforts to strengthen national preparedness and develop a proactive civil defence system through investment in technology, human capabilities and international expertise.

Qatar expands Civil Defence network to improve fire response Qatar recorded an average response time of six minutes and 45 seconds for fire and rescue incidents in 2025, as the country’s General Directorate of Civil Defence expands its network of centres and upgrades its operational capabilities. Major Mohammed Ali Al Suwaidi of the General Directorate, part of the Ministry of Interior, outlined the measures during a presentation at Milipol Qatar 2026, held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center. The initiatives form part of a wider strategy to improve emergency readiness and protect lives and property. Expanding the coverage of Civil Defence centres is a key priority, with locations guided by analysis of incident patterns, risk levels and the time required to reach emergencies. Construction and preparations for the opening of a new centre are nearing completion, with further centres planned. The directorate has also added more than 20 vehicles and items of equipment over the past four years, including drones, robots and motorcycles, to strengthen firefighting and rescue operations.

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Key operational developments include: • New technology: Drones were introduced for firefighting operations in 2026, alongside a robot designed to help manage fire incidents. • Emerging risks: Civil Defence is strengthening its ability to respond to electric vehicle incidents and emergencies in high-rise buildings, which require specialised equipment and updated procedures. • Training and coordination: Personnel receive specialist instruction, including courses at Ras Laffan Emergency and Safety College. The directorate also works with government and privatesector organisations on evacuation drills, joint exercises and safety training.

Alongside response capabilities, the directorate is working to strengthen safety requirements for buildings and facilities, improve technical standards for equipment and enhance the role of safety officers at critical sites. Performance is monitored through indicators including response times, firerelated fatalities and serious injuries, and the incidence of fires in establishments subject to safety requirements. The measures support Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy, with continued investment in resources, training and public awareness intended to improve emergency response as fire and rescue challenges evolve.

REGIONAL NEWS

Saudi Civil Defence showcases digital safety platforms Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defence has showcased digital safety and emergency warning technologies at LEAP 2026, highlighting tools designed to support public protection and streamline safety licensing. The exhibition, held at the Ministry of Interior’s pavilion, featured the National

Early Warning Platform, which sends mobile phone alerts to help people take prompt preventive action during emergencies. Another featured service was the Salamah portal, which allows establishments to issue, renew and manage safety licences digitally.

KUWAIT AMENDS FIRE FORCE LAW Kuwait has amended its Public Fire Force law to allow certain fire safety violations to be settled without proceeding through a full criminal case, subject to specified conditions. Decree-Law No. 85 of 2026 amends Law No. 13 of 2020 governing the Public Fire Force. Signed on 6 September and published in the official gazette on 13 September, it introduces a conciliation mechanism for eligible violations. Under the new provision, establishments may be able to settle a violation by paying up to KD10,000 and addressing the cause of the breach. The route can apply before a criminal case is filed or while proceedings are under way, provided the violation has not resulted in death or injury. The legislation also provides for changes to the Public Fire Force’s internal disciplinary framework; introduces a training stipend for Kuwaiti nationals studying at the Force’s educational institutes; and, in addition, creates a route for specialist doctors to be appointed directly at specified ranks. The amendment is intended to address issues identified through practical experience and strengthen institutional performance, discipline and fire prevention.

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The directorate also highlighted a smart helmet as part of its wider display of safety and incident response technologies. LEAP 2026 took place in Malham, from 31 August to 3 September.

Qatar develops airto-water system for emergency use Qatar’s Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) has developed a solar-powered system capable of producing drinking water from atmospheric moisture, potentially providing an alternative water supply during emergencies or in locations where conventional infrastructure is unavailable. The system, named Badr, was developed by Lekhwiya’s Security Technologies Department. It draws moisture from the atmosphere and processes it into potable water, with the force saying it was designed to meet international safety and quality standards. Badr is available in two configurations. A smaller model designed for indoor use can produce up to 200 litres per day, while a larger system intended for sites requiring higher capacity can produce up to 5,000 litres per day. One of the system’s notable features is its ability to operate in environments affected by chemical and radioactive contaminants. This could make independent water generation particularly relevant to emergency operations where conventional water supplies have been disrupted or where contamination presents an additional challenge. The system is also solar-powered, reducing its dependence on conventional electricity infrastructure and potentially allowing it to be deployed in remote locations or temporary operational sites. The system has been named Badr in memory of Badr Saad Mohammed Al Humaidi Al Dosari, an Internal Security Force officer killed while performing his duties during the Israeli attack on Doha on 9 September 2025.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

GREECE Greece is deploying a satellite-based wildfire detection system designed to identify heat sources and provide earlier warnings of emerging fires. The system uses low-orbit thermal satellites to monitor high-risk areas and detect potential fire outbreaks. The technology is intended to give firefighters earlier intelligence on wildfire ignition and spread, supporting faster intervention during increasingly challenging fire seasons.

ENGLAND New guidance requiring a second staircase in new residential buildings with a storey 18 metres or more in height came into effect in England on 30 September 2026. The change to Approved Document B is intended to provide an additional escape route and support firefighter access in taller residential buildings, with transitional arrangements applying to some projects already underway.

INDIA A suspected high-intensity blast at a 220kV electrical substation in Chinchwad, Maharashtra, triggered a major fire on 5 September. Fire crews tackled flames at the facility while power was cut to surrounding areas. The incident disrupted electricity supplies to residential and industrial areas, demonstrating the fire and resilience challenges associated with critical power infrastructure.

UNITED STATES Researchers in the US are using a new test rig, known as DREW, to investigate how firefighter helmets perform when exposed to rotational forces as well as direct impacts. The research aims to improve understanding of helmet-related injury risks and could help inform future approaches to the design and testing of firefighter head protection.

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PAKISTAN Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority has sealed 14 buildings following a citywide fire-safety crackdown. The action follows the deaths of 14 newborn babies in a fire at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences. Inspections reportedly identified firesafety violations at multiple buildings, with authorities now taking enforcement action against premises found to be non-compliant.

SOUTH KOREA A major fire at South Korea’s National Information Resources Service data centre has been linked to battery replacement work carried out by unregistered subcontractors. An investigation found that basic safety measures, including power isolation, were not followed. The incident damaged servers and disrupted hundreds of government information systems, highlighting the fire risks surrounding battery maintenance in critical facilities.

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PRODUCT NEWS

Teledyne launches gas detectors with hot-swap capability

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection has introduced three industrial gas detectors designed to simplify maintenance and reduce disruption in demanding operating environments. The FREEDOM GP, XP and Xi models share an electronic architecture intended to standardise components and simplify servicing. A key feature is hot-swappable cartridges, which can be replaced while the detector remains powered in hazardous areas, according to the manufacturer. The range is aimed at applications including oil and gas, utilities, water treatment and laboratories. The FREEDOM XP is designed for explosive atmospheres and carries SIL 2/SC 3 High Demand certification, while the Xi is intended for harsh operating conditions. Bluetooth connectivity enables configuration, calibration and diagnostics through Teledyne’s GF Sync mobile app. The software can also generate maintenance certificates automatically, helping users manage service records and compliance documentation. teledyne.com

CI DIGITAL TWIN CONNECTS FIRE PREVENTION WITH BUILDING DATA Ci Global’s Digital Twin platform is designed to bring fire prevention and other building systems into a connected operational view, combining data from technologies such as CCTV analytics, building management systems, automatic number plate recognition and occupancy detection. The platform uses AI to help interpret activity and identify developing situations, while its two-way functionality is intended to enable authorised actions through connected systems and devices. The aim is to give building operators more context when assessing risks and responding to incidents, rather than requiring them to monitor separate systems independently. The approach could be relevant to complex buildings and connected developments where fire safety, security and building operations increasingly overlap. Ci Global has also described integrations with Hassantuk in the UAE and SAGA in Saudi Arabia, positioning its wider technology within the region’s existing fire safety infrastructure. ci.global

Johnson Controls updates fire safety workstations Johnson Controls has launched updated versions of its Simplex Incident Manager and Autocall Fire Site Administrator workstations, designed to centralise fire alarm monitoring and control across large and complex facilities. The platforms bring fire system information into a unified interface, using graphical floor plans, alarm notifications and centralised controls to help operators assess incidents and coordinate responses. They are intended for applications including hospitals, data centres, commercial buildings, campuses and sports venues.

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Each workstation can monitor up to 250,000 devices and connect up to 687 fire alarm control units. The systems also support up to 60 remote client users simultaneously, providing real-time status and event information through desktop or mobile applications. Additional features include configurable notifications, integration options for connected cameras and cybersecurityfocused software architecture aligned with ISA/IEC 62443. Both platforms support Arabic, alongside four other languages, and are designed to accommodate multisite operations as facilities expand.

Anil Konjalwar, Director of Product Management, Fire Detection, Johnson Controls, said: “The next generation fire safety workstations give facility teams greater insights across their fire systems, helping them to respond more quickly to alerts, make informed decisions in the event of an emergency and maintain confidence that critical facilities, operations and occupants are protected.”

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PRODUCT NEWS

TLX and Redline partner on lithium-ion fire suppression TLX Fire & Security has partnered with Redline Fire Solutions to bring a range of PFAS-free, bio-based firefighting agents to market, beginning with products designed for lithium-ion battery fires. The companies said the agents are formulated for rapid extinguishment across multiple fire classes. They are described as non-corrosive, non-toxic and biodegradable, with all ingredients included on the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Chemical Ingredients List. The partnership aims to address the challenges of lithium-ion battery fires, including thermal runaway and reignition, while offering an alternative to PFAS-based products that face increasing regulatory scrutiny. The initial range comprises two products: Thermal Stop and Thermal Shield. Thermal Stop is a patented wetting agent designed to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires and stop thermal runaway in seconds or minutes, using minimal water. It is also intended for use on Class A, B, D and K fires. Thermal Shield is designed to stabilise batteries following extinguishment, for their safe transport and storage. Both products are PFAS-free, non-toxic and biodegradable, and are independently certified to NFPA 18, the standard covering wetting agents.

TLX Fire & Security will contribute to product development, manufacturing, marketing and sales, drawing on its international market presence to expand access to the agents. Redline Fire Solutions will bring its firefighting experience and expertise in developing formulations for practical fireground applications. Phil Worsman of Redline Fire Solutions said: “The most effective fire protection solutions are born from the experience of those who face these dangers firsthand. As firefighters, we understand that innovation isn’t just about developing new technology. It’s about solving real-world problems, improving firefighter safety, and protecting lives, property, and the environment. Our mission is to bridge the gap between frontline experience and advanced fire suppression technology, ensuring the solutions we develop meet the demands of those who depend on them.” tlxfire.com

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

SCBA mounting solutions For decades, departments across the US have trusted Zico for storage and retrieval of SCBA. Its offerings include NFPA-compliant solutions for cabs and compartments and provide a range of accessibility options that allow for easy access and reliable retention. The EZ-LOC line of in-seat brackets retrofit easily into most seats to provide strapless storage and quick retrieval. The QUIC-SLIDE range of brackets store compactly and slide out, down and even flip 180% to provide quick access to SCBA that would otherwise be hard to reach. When space is limited, the MBH multiple bracket holder stores four SCBA and rotates for easy access. In addition to this variety of formats, Zico provides clips in various sizes and with a selection of coatings that suit the individual needs of the department. Zico’s trusted customer service experts can recommend configurations and advise on installation. Its solutions are

offered by OEMs and through dealers throughout the US. Internationally, Zico products are available from Sliding Systems Group (info@gsfslides.com) with offices throughout the Middle East and Europe. Developing essential equipment for fire and EMS vehicles for over 50 years, Zico is trusted by departments worldwide.

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FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 15

COVER STORY | FFS

The firefighting standard that came ashore Fire Middle East spoke with David Jackson, Land-Based Director at Fire Fighting Systems (FFS), about how decades of offshore engineering continue to shape the company’s approach to industrial firefighting At sea, a firefighting system is often the last line of defence between an incident and a major disaster. It is in these uncompromising conditions that Norwegian manufacturer FFS built its reputation as the global leader in marine firefighting. Today, those same engineering standards are being applied to major industrial firefighting projects worldwide, protecting critical infrastructure from refineries and tank farms to municipalities and commercial space recovery operations.

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Marine firefighting demands exceptional reliability and performance. How has that experience influenced the way FFS approaches industrial firefighting?

Working at sea teaches you very quickly that absolute reliability isn’t a feature; it’s a requirement. There are no fallbacks. When a firefighting system is called upon, it can be the difference between containing an incident and a disaster.

That doesn’t change from sea to shore. On land, you’re protecting refineries, tank farms and other critical infrastructure where failure can quickly escalate into site-wide loss. Whilst the environments differ, the expectation is the same: when the system is needed, it has to perform. That responsibility shaped FFS long before we entered the land-based market. Reliability and performance aren’t targets we work towards at the end of a project; they’re the starting point for every engineering decision.

COVER STORY | FFS

Which lessons from marine and offshore engineering proved most valuable when FFS expanded into industrial firefighting?

Engineering for vessels forces you to think differently because every design decision has consequences. Weight matters. Space is limited. Equipment has to withstand constant vibration, corrosive seawater and years of inactivity before operating exactly as intended. Those constraints taught us to achieve high performance without adding unnecessary complexity. That means intelligent engineering, reducing interfaces and eliminating potential points of failure wherever possible. The same disciplines translated naturally to industrial firefighting. We already knew how to engineer compact, high-performance systems within demanding physical and operational constraints. On land, that can mean equipment that is easier to transport, faster to deploy and simpler to maintain, without compromising the required performance.

What did FFS recognise early on was needed to succeed in industrial firefighting?

We recognised that understanding the incident is just as important as understanding the engineering. Whilst engineering provides the solution, operational experience defines the requirement. Some of the most valuable ideas come from people who have stood in front of countless fires, deployed equipment, seen equipment fail and experienced how quickly an incident can escalate. That’s why former industrial firefighters and fire chiefs became part of the business, working side by side with our engineers throughout the development process. That creates a very short path between operational experience and engineering. Practical challenges can be identified earlier, feedback goes directly to the people designing the equipment, and products are developed around operational requirements rather than assumptions.

FFS engineers, manufactures and tests its systems under one roof. Why has this remained so important?

Keeping those capabilities together gives us control over how the complete system

“At sea or on land, there is one expectation that never changes: when a firefighting system is needed, it has to perform” is developed. Rather than assembling a solution from components sourced from multiple suppliers, we can engineer the critical elements to work together from the outset. Every interface, connection and function can therefore be considered as part of the overall system. It reduces unnecessary complexity and ensures each element is designed to complement the next. It also gives customers a single partner throughout the life of the equipment. From access to OEM parts and technical support to future upgrades, the engineering knowledge behind the original system remains available long after commissioning.

How do you ensure a firefighting system will perform when it’s called upon?

The reality is that no firefighting incident is ever the same, and there are countless variables you can’t control. What you can control is how well prepared the equipment is before that day comes. Our job is to remove as many opportunities for failure as possible. Engineering has to be backed up by validation. We test complete systems because that’s how they’ll operate during an incident. Our pump test facilities, diesel engine test hall and outdoor test site allow us to prove the required performance before delivery. Long-term operation is equally important. Firefighting equipment may spend years on standby, so accessibility for maintenance, durability and serviceability are considered from the beginning. The easier a system is to inspect, maintain

and support, the greater the confidence it will be ready when required. Ultimately, you can’t eliminate every risk surrounding an emergency, but you can eliminate unnecessary risk within the firefighting system itself. That’s what we’re focused on every day.

FFS is protecting everything from refineries and tank farms to commercial space recovery operations. What has enabled the company to succeed across such diverse applications?

While the applications are very different, customers ultimately need the same thing: confidence in the equipment they are relying on. The engineering is tailored to each application, but the standards we set for ourselves don’t change. The range of major projects we’ve delivered shows how that approach can be adapted to very different operational environments. We work closely with our customers to understand the specific risks and requirements of each site before developing the right firefighting solution. It’s the approach that established FFS as a global leader in marine firefighting, and one we continue to bring to major industrial firefighting projects worldwide. Preparing for scenarios beyond the capabilities of your fixed firefighting infrastructure? Contact FFS to discuss rapidly deployable, high-capacity pumping and monitor systems designed to strengthen your response to major incidents.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 17

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Advanced fire safety solutions supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambitious developments By Sasi Kumar, General Manager for Middle East & Africa at Advanced

Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in transformative projects across hospitality, healthcare, education, transport, commercial real estate and critical infrastructure. From high-rise towers and mixed-use developments to airports, data centres and industrial facilities, these projects require fire protection systems that combine reliability, flexibility and long-term performance. As the scale and complexity of developments across the Kingdom continue to grow, fire safety strategies must evolve alongside them. Systems need to provide dependable protection today while offering the flexibility and scalability required to accommodate changing building requirements and future expansion.

Clear communication when it matters most

Supporting complex and largescale developments

More than fire detection

A key part of Advanced’s offering for projects across the region is the Axis AX fire system. Engineered to support everything from standalone buildings through to large-scale networked installations, the platform combines UL 864 10th Edition-approved fire panels, command centres, audio solutions and UL 268 7th Edition-approved field devices within a single, highly scalable solution. Extensive networking capabilities, advanced cause-and-effect programming and intuitive software tools make Axis AX particularly well suited to the complex environments increasingly common throughout the Kingdom. Whether it is protecting a single building or connecting multiple systems across a large development, this scalability allows fire protection infrastructure to adapt as requirements evolve over time, without compromising the performance and reliability expected from a life safety system.

As buildings grow larger and more sophisticated, effective emergency communication becomes even more important. Axis AX includes integrated voice evacuation capabilities supporting both live and pre-recorded announcements, while multiple audio channels enable targeted messaging to different areas of a building. The system also features Advanced’s PerfectSync technology, ensuring audio and strobes remain synchronised across extensive networks. This coordinated approach helps support clear and effective emergency communication, particularly in high-rise and complex multi-use developments. Modern life safety strategies extend beyond basic fire detection. Building operators are increasingly seeking technologies that improve operational efficiency, reduce disruption and simplify ongoing management. Advanced offers a range of complementary solutions designed to address these challenges. AlarmCalm helps reduce unwanted alarms through configurable investigation delays and verification strategies, while DynamixSmoke provides straightforward configuration of smoke control systems, including fans, dampers and pressurisation systems. Advanced’s redundant fire panel solutions offer enhanced resilience for mission-critical facilities where maintaining system availability is essential. ExGo, Advanced’s EN-approved gas extinguishing control solution, extends protection to environments where water-based suppression may not be

appropriate. It delivers dependable extinguishing control for sensitive equipment and valuable assets, either as a standalone solution or as part of wider fire protection infrastructure. For smaller applications, AxisGo provides a compact, single-loop, nonnetworkable panel delivering many of the benefits of the Axis EN platform. QuickZone provides dependable conventional fire detection for a broad range of installations.

Building long-term partnerships

Technology is only one part of delivering effective fire protection. Complex projects also depend on strong relationships between manufacturers, consultants, system integrators, contractors and end users to ensure solutions meet the specific requirements of each application. As Saudi Arabia continues its ambitious development journey, Advanced remains committed to supporting customers throughout the Kingdom with high-performance fire protection technologies, backed by engineering expertise and strong regional partnerships. By providing solutions spanning fire detection, networking, emergency communication, false alarm management, smoke control and extinguishing control, Advanced can support projects of different sizes and complexities while giving customers the flexibility to respond to evolving requirements. This combination of technology, scalability and long-term support will become increasingly important as the Kingdom’s built environment continues to develop. Visit the Advanced website to learn more: www.advancedco.com

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INDUSTRY MONITOR | SFPE

SFPE relaunches in Saudi Arabia The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) KSA Chapter has officially relaunched in Saudi Arabia, marking an exciting new chapter for the Kingdom’s growing fire and life safety community The Chapter celebrated its relaunch with an inaugural event held at the Courtyard by Marriott in Olaya, Riyadh, bringing together more than 80 attendees from across the fire and life safety industry. The strong turnout reflected the enthusiasm surrounding the Chapter’s return, with professionals travelling from cities including Jeddah, Khobar and Dammam to participate. Their presence demonstrated not only the growing interest in SFPE within Saudi Arabia, but also the commitment of fire safety professionals to strengthen collaboration and knowledge sharing across the Kingdom.

Welcome address

Opening the event, SFPE KSA Chapter President Amer Al Merabi welcomed attendees and outlined the objectives behind relaunching the Chapter. Central to this vision is the creation of an accessible platform where engineers, consultants, authorities, contractors, academics, students and other industry professionals can come together to learn, exchange experience and advocate for the continued advancement of fire and life safety across Saudi Arabia’s rapidly developing market. The Chapter was also honoured to welcome special guest Shamim RashidSumar, who joined the inaugural event virtually and delivered a warm welcoming message to the newly relaunched SFPE KSA Chapter. She shared her support and encouragement for the Chapter, together

with her high hopes for its future success and positive contribution to the fire safety profession in Saudi Arabia. Her message provided a meaningful connection to the wider SFPE community and reinforced the spirit of collaboration that the KSA Chapter hopes to foster.

International voice

Furthermore, Chapter Secretary Mohamed Mohamed introduced attendees to SFPE International, highlighting the strength of its global network and outlining the various ways professionals can engage with and contribute to the KSA Chapter. Building on this, Marketing Officer Mohamed Abdelfattah introduced the SFPE KSA Chapter Board and shared the Chapter’s vision for future growth. This vision focuses on expanding engagement across the Kingdom, delivering a diverse programme of activities, and creating meaningful opportunities for professionals from different disciplines and organisations to participate in and help shape the Chapter’s future. The Chapter’s ambition extends beyond formal technical events. Its future programme is anticipated to include practical workshops, technical training, knowledge-sharing sessions and friendly professional gatherings in different cities across the Kingdom. Through these activities, the Chapter aims to make participation accessible to the wider fire safety community and create opportunities for both experienced

professionals and emerging talent to connect and learn from one another.

Uniting the sector

At its core, the SFPE KSA Chapter is intended to support the fire safety community in Saudi Arabia by establishing stronger professional networks, providing practical opportunities to exchange technical knowledge and experience, and building a robust, welcoming and collaborative community for everyone with an interest in fire and life safety. The inaugural event was an important first step, but it represents only the beginning. As Saudi Arabia continues its remarkable development, collaboration and knowledge sharing within the fire and life safety profession will remain increasingly important. Fire safety professionals, students and interested industry members are encouraged to follow the ‘SFPE KSA Chapter’ on LinkedIn and watch for upcoming workshops, networking gatherings and technical events across cities throughout Saudi Arabia.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 21

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FIRE MIDDLE EAST CONFERENCE: AN EVENT WORTH WAITING FOR The Fire Middle East Conference will now take place on 1 June 2027. While the decision to postpone was difficult, the additional time will allow us to develop an even stronger event for the region’s fire safety community Following recent concerning incidents in Riyadh, we have taken the difficult decision to postpone the Fire Middle East Conference, moving the event to 1 June 2027. We have been monitoring the situation closely, working alongside our government partners and key stakeholders in the region. Ultimately, the safety and wellbeing of our speakers, sponsors, delegates and organising team must come first. While we are disappointed that the conference will not take place as originally planned, we believe postponement is the right decision. But while the date has changed, our ambition for the event has not.

More time to build something stronger

A conference should be more than a date in the diary. It should be an opportunity for the industry to come together, exchange ideas, challenge established thinking and build relationships that continue long after the event itself. That is what we want the Fire Middle East Conference to deliver. The additional time gives us an opportunity to strengthen the programme, develop the conversations we want to bring to the stage and ensure that the event reflects the priorities and experiences of those working across the region’s fire safety sector.

Fire safety is an industry where knowledge-sharing and collaboration can have a lasting impact. From the development and application of codes and standards to the practical challenges of designing, installing and maintaining effective fire protection systems, there is enormous value in bringing professionals together to share experiences and learn from one another. We want our conference to encourage these exchanges, giving delegates the opportunity to explore new approaches, discuss common challenges and take away ideas they can apply in their own work. We also want to make the most of the opportunity to build connections between people and organisations that might not otherwise have the chance to meet. The conversations that take place between sessions, the exchange of perspectives and the relationships formed can be just as valuable as the presentations themselves. Our aim is to create an event that makes the time and investment of attending worthwhile, whether delegates come to gain new insights, explore emerging ideas, meet peers or develop partnerships.

be able to welcome our community with greater confidence. Our vision for the conference remains unchanged, and we remain committed to delivering an event of the highest quality for the Middle East fire safety industry. The coming months will give us more time to work with speakers, sponsors, partners and stakeholders to shape an experience that delivers real value. We know that postponing an event can be disappointing for everyone who has committed time and resources to it. We are grateful for the understanding and continued support of our community, and we look forward to sharing further details as plans develop. For now, the message is simple: the conference has moved, but the ambition behind it has not. We intend to use this additional time well and bring the industry together for an event worth waiting for. Registration remains open for the rescheduled Fire Middle East Conference on 1 June 2027.

Looking ahead to June 2027

We hope that, by the time we come together on 1 June 2027, the regional situation will be more stable and we will

firemiddleeastconference.com

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE Vetter Safety Cushion

Expanding rescue possibilities when every second counts The Vetter Safety Cushion has long been recognised as a valuable addition to the rescue toolkit, providing incident commanders with an alternative lifesaving solution when conventional methods are not immediately possible. It strengthens operational capability by providing an additional tactical option when circumstances demand rapid and decisive action. The Vetter Safety Cushion provides an emergency landing area to reduce fall consequences and give trapped occupants a chance of survival.

Engineered for rapid deployment

Vetter Safety Cushions are engineered for rapid inflation using compressed air cylinders or high-performance blower systems, enabling crews to establish an effective rescue capability within minutes. Its highly visible target area provides a clear landing zone, while the robust construction and proven design ensure dependable performance in demanding emergency environments.

A standard feature

While hydraulic platforms and turntable ladders remain among the most effective tools for rescue from height, experienced emergency

services recognise that building design, restricted access, environmental conditions or rapidly evolving incidents can limit deployment options. With a safety cushion, firefighters gain another valuable resource that can be deployed immediately when conditions require.

Ideal for urban and industrial environments

The Vetter Safety Cushion offers a practical and highly mobile ground-based rescue capability that can be deployed in locations where larger rescue assets may face limitations. This flexibility makes it an invaluable resource for municipal fire brigades, civil defence organisations, airport rescue services, industrial emergency response teams and specialist rescue units.

Prepared for the unexpected

Many specialist rescue assets are acquired not because they are used every day, but because their availability can prove critical during rare incidents where lives depend on having the right capability immediately available. The safety cushion provides readiness for those exceptional situations where conventional rescue methods cannot be implemented quickly enough.

Supporting life safety objectives

Every rescue operation has one primary objective: saving lives. While no rescue method can eliminate risk entirely, the Vetter Safety Cushion provides a controlled rescue option designed to improve outcomes during some of the most challenging incidents emergency responders may encounter. It expands tactical choices, strengthens operational resilience and supports a comprehensive life-safety strategy.

Trusted worldwide

Vetter has earned a global reputation for developing high-quality pneumatic rescue equipment relied upon by professional emergency responders across the world. The Safety Cushion reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to innovation, reliability and operational excellence. Today, fire and rescue organisations across many countries continue to trust the Vetter Safety Cushion as an essential component of their rescue capability. For Fire and Rescue Services throughout the Middle East, the Vetter Safety Cushion represents more than a piece of equipment. It represents readiness, resilience and an unwavering commitment to providing every possible opportunity to save a life. Vetter Safety Cushion. Trusted worldwide. Ready when it matters most. vetter.de

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OPERATIONALTRANSFORMATION TRANSFORMATION | | AGENTIC AI OPERATIONAL

Commanding the agent Dr Humaid Al Ali, Deputy Director of Fire Affairs at UAE’s Ministry of Interior, examines the landmark national directive to shift half of government services to Agentic AI within two years – and sets out how fire leaders can turn a mandate into operational transformation In April 2026, the United Arab Emirates announced a framework, under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to deploy Agentic AI across 50 per cent of federal sectors, services and operations within two years – an initiative unprecedented in government. Oversight rests with His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, while execution is coordinated by a taskforce chaired by His Excellency Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs. Weeks later, the Cabinet moved from ambition to architecture. It approved the governance framework defining the roles of every ministry and federal entity; the first list of services to transition under Phase One; and the largest training programme in the government’s history

– equipping 80,000 federal employees with Agentic AI skills. Sheikh Mohammed declared that the journey to “UAE Government 4.0” had begun. For the fire service, this is not a distant policy headline. Every federal entity, including the Civil Defence, must now form an implementation team headed by its leadership and begin transitioning services and operations to agentic models. In my previous article, I argued that fire leaders weighing AI investments should ask whether their strategy encompasses critical adoption phases. Now, the Cabinet has answered the question of national commitment. But more questions arise for the fire industry: Does the current infrastructure truly have the capacity for this transformation into AI agents? Do you have the required staff skills to support this journey? Both of these are critical questions. The question that remains belongs to us: When the agent arrives, will your people know how to command it?

From digital to agentic: what actually changes

Agentic AI marks a categorical shift from the systems most fire services know today. Conventional digital tools, dashboards, alerts and records, inform a human who then decides and acts. An agentic system plans, decides, executes and improves towards a defined goal, escalating to a human only where judgement or authority is required. As Sheikh Mohammed put it, AI is no longer a tool – it analyses, decides, executes and improves in real time, acting as an executive partner to government. Unlike traditional AI systems that primarily generate predictions, recommendations or content in response to prompts, agentic AI can plan, execute multi step tasks, interact with external systems and evaluate outcomes with limited human intervention. In practical terms, an AI agent moves beyond informing decision makers to actively supporting the execution and

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OPERATIONAL TRANSFORMATION | AGENTIC AI

management of operational processes within defined governance and oversight frameworks. Despite increasing levels of autonomy, successful AI implementation remains fundamentally human centred. Humans define objectives, establish operational boundaries, validate outcomes and retain accountability for decisions. The most effective model is not human versus machine, but human and machine working together, combining the speed and analytical capability of AI with human judgement, experience and leadership. The distinction is important. Traditional digital systems provide information for firefighters and officers to act upon; agentic systems can perceive conditions, evaluate options, initiate actions and continuously learn while operating within defined command, policy and governance boundaries.

Preparing for tomorrow

Consider a practical contrast. Today, a building monitoring dashboard alerts a duty officer that a water tank or fire pump in an industrial facility has developed a fault. The officer must then investigate the issue, assess the level of risk, and determine the appropriate course of action based on experience, operational judgement and established procedures. Tomorrow, an AI agent detects the anomaly automatically, cross-references it against occupancy risk, inspection history and asset criticality, schedules the maintenance crew, issues the work order, verifies completion, updates the pre-incident plan and reports the closedloop outcome to the officer. The human role shifts from processing information and coordinating actions to supervising

outcomes and exercising command oversight. The UAE is not starting from zero. Two decades of digital government, from early e-services to integrated identity systems and proactive service design, have built the data foundations agentic systems require. In the fire domain, the national smart alarm monitoring system Hassantuk already demonstrates the precursor logic: sensors that detect, verify and dispatch with minimal human latency. Agentic AI extends that logic from a single life-safety function to the management of the fire service itself.

The research lens: insights for accelerating agentic AI adoption

The Cabinet’s commitment to developing Agentic AI capabilities across 80,000 federal employees represents one of the most ambitious public sector workforce transformation initiatives undertaken globally. As organisations across government begin this journey, the findings of my doctoral research offer evidence-based insights that can help maximise the impact of these investments and support successful AI adoption. The research found that facilitating conditions including infrastructure, technical support, data accessibility and leadership commitment play a critical role in enabling the successful adoption and integration of AI technologies. These findings suggest that training programmes achieve their greatest impact when delivered within an environment where personnel have access to the tools, resources and organisational support needed to apply new capabilities in practice.

“The question that remains for every fire chief is readiness: when the agent arrives, will your people know how to command it?” 28 46 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71

The research also highlighted the importance of linking capability development with operational application. While formal training plays a vital role in building awareness, knowledge and confidence, the transition from learning to sustained use is strengthened when personnel are provided opportunities to apply AI tools within real operational environments. Officers who gain handson experience with AI-enabled systems are more likely to integrate these technologies into routine decision-making and become advocates for innovation within their organisations. For fire service leaders implementing the national directive, the implication is clear: training, technology, leadership and operational application should be viewed as complementary components of transformation. Pilot projects, operational demonstrations and structured exposure to AI-enabled workflows can reinforce learning outcomes, build trust and accelerate adoption. In this context, the national skills programme provides a critical foundation upon which operational transformation can be built, helping organisations move from understanding AI to confidently applying it in support of their mission.

Examples of the functions ready for agentic transformation

Where should a fire and rescue service begin? Before considering specific use cases, fire service leaders should recognise that successful agentic transformation is built upon digital maturity. Organisations that have already invested in digital platforms, integrated data environments, connected operational systems and data-driven decision-making are generally better positioned to realise value from AI investments. In many respects, agentic AI should be viewed not as a separate initiative, but as the next stage in the broader digital transformation journey. While every organisation will have different priorities, several functions share common characteristics that make them well suited for agentic transformation: they are data-rich, process-driven, measurable and require continuous decision-making. These are the environments in which agentic systems can deliver the greatest value.

OPERATIONAL TRANSFORMATION | AGENTIC AI

Agentic transformation at a glance Function

Today (digital)

Tomorrow (agentic)

Expected gain

Plan review

Engineers check drawings against code manually

Agent screens submissions, flags deviations, routes approvals

Faster permits, fewer backlogs

Inspection targeting

Fixed cycles and static priority lists

Dynamic risk-based scheduling generated continuously

Better risk reduction and resource utilisation

Station readiness

Platforms report gaps; officers initiate actions

Platform detects, initiates and verifies corrective action

Continuous readiness assurance

Dispatch and coverage

Static response zones and predetermined deployment models

Coverage repositions dynamically with modelled risk

Faster response times and improved coverage

Firefighter health and wellbeing

Periodic assessments and manual monitoring

Agent monitors trends, schedules interventions early

Improved wellbeing, fitness and injury prevention

Incident management and decision support

Commanders manually gather and assess information

Agent integrates data sources and provides real-time recommendations

Enhanced situational awareness and decision quality

1. Plan review and permitting AI-powered plan review platforms can assess building submissions against applicable fire and life safety codes, identify deviations, request additional information and route approvals to the appropriate authority. This can significantly reduce review times while allowing engineers and inspectors to focus on complex technical and judgement-based decisions. 2. Risk-based inspection targeting Agentic systems can continuously assess risk by analysing factors such as occupancy changes, compliance history, inspection findings, sensor data, environmental conditions and community risk indicators. Inspection schedules can then be dynamically prioritised, ensuring that resources are directed towards the highest-risk occupancies. 3. Station readiness and resource management Many fire services already use digital platforms to monitor staffing levels, apparatus availability, equipment status and operational readiness. An agentic layer can proactively identify gaps, initiate

corrective actions, schedule maintenance activities, recommend resource substitutions and verify readiness before operational impacts occur. 4. Predictive dispatch and dynamic coverage By analysing historical incident data, realtime risk indicators, weather conditions, traffic patterns and special events, agentic systems can model incident probability and recommend – or within approved parameters, execute – strategic resource repositioning. This allows operational coverage to adapt dynamically to changing risk conditions rather than relying solely on fixed response boundaries. 5. Firefighter health, safety and wellbeing Digital health and fitness monitoring systems increasingly track indicators such as physical fitness, medical assessments, fatigue and wellbeing metrics. Agentic systems can support workforce resilience by scheduling assessments, personalising fitness and wellness programmes, identifying emerging trends and alerting supervisors to potential risks before they affect operational performance.

6. Incident management and decision support One of the most significant opportunities for agentic AI lies in incident management. By integrating operational resources, staffing information, apparatus status, building intelligence, geographic information systems, community risk data, weather conditions and live incident inputs, agentic systems can support commanders through real-time situational awareness, tactical recommendations, resource allocation, escalation planning and mutual-aid coordination. Human commanders retain authority and accountability, while agents provide continuous analysis and decision support throughout the incident lifecycle.

Critical considerations for fire leaders

While every fire and rescue organisation will progress at a different pace, several factors are likely to influence the success of agentic AI adoption. The findings from both practice and research suggest that fire leaders should consider the following: •

Establish clear governance and accountability.

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OPERATIONAL TRANSFORMATION | AGENTIC AI

•

Agentic systems require defined authority levels, escalation pathways, audit mechanisms and human oversight. Leaders should ensure that responsibility for decisions remains clear, particularly in high-consequence operational environments. Define measurable operational outcomes. Technology initiatives should be linked to mission outcomes rather than technical capabilities. Whether the objective is reducing inspection backlogs, improving response times, enhancing firefighter safety or increasing operational readiness, success should be measured in operational terms. Start with targeted, low-risk use cases. Early implementation efforts should focus on functions where processes are well understood, data is available and outcomes can be measured. Demonstrating value in controlled environments helps build confidence and organisational trust. Invest in enabling conditions. Successful adoption depends on more than technology. Leadership support, data quality, infrastructure, interoperability, cybersecurity and access to technical expertise all play important roles in enabling operational use. Connect training with operational application. Capability development is most effective when personnel can apply newly acquired knowledge in real-world environments. Exposure to live systems, pilot projects and operational use cases helps transform learning into sustained practice. Build trust through transparency. Personnel are more likely to embrace agentic systems when they understand how recommendations are generated, what authority the system possesses, and when human intervention is required. Transparency supports confidence, accountability and responsible use. Maintain human command and oversight. Agentic systems should enhance decision-making, not replace professional judgement. Firefighters, officers and incident commanders remain responsible for operational decisions, while AI agents provide analysis, recommendations and process automation within defined boundaries.

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•

Scale based on evidence. Organisations should continuously evaluate outcomes, capture lessons learned and expand deployment where measurable benefits have been demonstrated. Successful transformation is typically achieved through iterative improvement rather than large-scale implementation at once.

Lessons for the region

History suggests that transformative technologies rarely change organisations overnight. Agentic AI has the potential to become the next general-purpose technology, fundamentally reshaping how organisations plan, decide and act. The challenge for fire service leaders is not whether this transformation will occur but how prepared their organisations will be to guide and govern it. The UAE has volunteered to be the live laboratory of agentic government, and its fire and rescue services will be among

the most scrutinised testbeds because nowhere are the stakes of autonomous decision making clearer than where seconds decide survival. Fire leaders across the Middle East should watch three things: how authority thresholds between agent and officer are drawn; how training is sequenced against live deployment; and how outcome metrics are reported. The lesson of the research holds at national scale: AI enhances missions, it does not replace grit. The agent will run the process. The human will command the incident. Departments that internalise that division of labour will find that the mandate was never a burden – it was a head start.

Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Humaid Al Ali is the Deputy Director of Fire Affairs at the UAE General Command of Civil Defence and holds a DBA specialising in AI in public safety.

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A fire sprinkler system is a substantial investment in a building’s future. Once installed, it is expected to remain in place for decades, protecting the people, property and operations inside. An owner looking 25 years ahead wants confidence that the system will still be dependable when it is needed. That confidence depends on more than the system working on the day it is commissioned. It depends on the condition of the pipework throughout the building’s life. Yet one of the greatest threats to that pipework develops where no one can see it: on the inside. Corrosion can progress for years before its first visible sign appears. It may begin with a pinhole leak above a ceiling or in another difficult-to-access location. A section of pipe is repaired, but if the conditions that caused the corrosion remain, another leak may follow. What starts as occasional maintenance can become repeated repair work and, eventually, premature pipe replacement.

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Replacing sprinkler pipe during construction is one thing. Replacing it in an occupied building is another. A repair may require ceilings to be opened, equipment to be covered or moved, stock to be relocated and access to be restricted. Contractors have to work around the activities of the building. The affected part of the sprinkler system may need to be taken out of service while work is completed, creating a temporary impairment that must be carefully managed. The cost is therefore much greater than the pipe itself. It includes labour, investigation, reinstatement, interruption to normal operations and the time facilities teams spend coordinating it all. Repeated leaks also make future expenditure harder to predict. If extensive replacement becomes necessary, the owner may be paying again for a system that was expected to last far longer. The impact is particularly clear in buildings where continuity matters. In a data centre, work near critical infrastructure needs careful planning. In a warehouse, repairs can disrupt storage and distribution. In an industrial facility, access restrictions may affect production. In a commercial building, leaks and ceiling works can interrupt occupants and tenants.

THE HIDDEN THREAT

There is also a more serious question behind every repair: what is happening elsewhere inside the system? Corrosion can weaken pipework and contribute to internal obstructions. A visible leak may be a warning of deterioration that has not yet been found. Because the sprinkler system exists to respond to a fire, its long-term condition is a safety concern as well as a financial one.

Why “dry” does not mean corrosion-free Dry and preaction sprinkler systems are used where the application calls for water to be kept out of the pipework during normal operation. That can include data centres and other spaces with sensitive equipment, refrigerated areas, and facilities where the system design must account for freezing conditions or the consequences of an unwanted water release.

Despite the name, a dry system can still contain residual water after testing or operation. Conventional compressed air also brings oxygen and moisture into the pipework. Where oxygen, water and metal meet, corrosion can develop. A leak can compound the problem. When the system loses pressure, the compressor runs to restore it, introducing more oxygen-rich air. Repairing the leaking section addresses the immediate damage, but it does not necessarily change the environment inside the rest of the pipes. For owners, consultants and contractors, that is the reason to consider corrosion control before the first leak. The objective is to protect the system’s useful life, rather than wait until deterioration forces an intrusive repair programme.

Change the environment inside the pipe

Potter IntelliGen® nitrogen generators are designed specifically for dry and preaction fire sprinkler systems. In place of ordinary compressed air, they supply high-purity, dry nitrogen generated on site. The generator takes in ambient air and uses membrane technology to separate nitrogen from oxygen and water vapour. Used with Potter’s IntelliPurge® valve, the system can expel remaining oxygen-rich air from the sprinkler pipework and monitor nitrogen purity within it. By reducing the oxygen and moisture available inside the pipes, nitrogen helps slow oxygen-related corrosion. That supports the long-term condition of the pipework and can reduce the likelihood of corrosion-related leaks, repeated repairs and premature replacement. This is where the value reaches beyond the generator itself. Protecting the sprinkler system helps preserve the building owner’s original capital investment. It can also help avoid the far more disruptive cost of replacing pipework after a data centre, warehouse or industrial facility is fully operational.

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Potter’s solution combines nitrogen generation with intelligent control and monitoring. The IntelliGen controller automates the air-fill and nitrogen-purge process. It monitors information including system pressure and generator runtime, while leak rate detection can alert users to unexpected pressure loss. A facilities team can investigate a developing issue instead of discovering it only when water appears. Where connected, Potter’s IntelliView® dashboard provides remote access to generator status, historical information, trouble alerts and maintenance reminders. For teams responsible for multiple systems or buildings, that visibility helps them keep track of the equipment protecting their sprinkler pipework. The IntelliGen range includes wall-mounted, integrated and modular options for systems of different sizes. Selecting a generator involves the required supervisory pressure, the volume of the largest riser and the total system capacity. Potter works with project teams to identify a suitable solution for a new installation or an existing dry or preaction system.

PROTECT THE PROTECTION

Nitrogen does not replace good system design, inspection, testing or maintenance. Nor can any single product eliminate every cause of sprinkler system failure. Its value is in addressing a major cause of internal corrosion before the damage leads to leaks, costly downtime or premature pipe replacement. A building owner invests in a sprinkler system because it must be ready to protect the building when called upon. Potter IntelliGen helps look after that system in the years between installation and activation: supporting pipework longevity, giving teams greater insight into its operation and helping preserve confidence in the protection behind the scenes.

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Fire protection shouldn’t drench your critical infrastructure Data centres require early fire detection and waterless suppression to preserve costly assets and ensure business continuity Among data centre professionals, the threat of fire remains an unthinkable nightmare — potentially catastrophic not just because of intense heat and flames, but also devastating collateral damage caused by the very sprinklers mandated to prevent their spread. Even the latest water mist systems can cause immense asset destruction and business disruption, spraying gallons of liquid on sensitive equipment. This can result in losses into the millions from lost revenue, replacements and repairs, reputational issues and system downtime.

A high-pressure water mist system designed for a 10,000 square foot (930 square metre) data hall is required by insurance standards to release 2,7004,200 gallons (10,200-15,800 litres) of water during 60 minutes of mandatory operation. That is the equivalent of 135210 twenty-gallon car wash cycles. To better mitigate these risks, data centres’ fire protection strategies should include early detection and waterless suppression. These elements don’t replace sprinklers, which remain essential for building structures, hydrocarbon applications and tunnels. Rather, they provide an added layer of protection, best ensuring water is never deployed. Conventional and water mist sprinklers take several minutes to activate as heat from burning objects intensifies and rises to the ceiling. More cutting-edge technologies interrupt this process, using the incipient stage of smoke formation as part of the trigger for a chemical clean agent release. These agents then absorb heat from burning materials and lower their temperature below the ignition point within seconds, suppressing fire

before heat and flames have damaged equipment or activated sprinklers. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approves these agents for normally occupied spaces when used in accordance with their guidelines and those in NFPA 2001. Other advanced systems utilise inert gases that lower the oxygen content in the room to a level where the process of combustion is no longer supported, all without leaving residue or producing by-products. The gases are natural, environmentally responsible and reduce risk to public health, according to the US EPA. They have an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero and a global warming potential (GWP) of zero. Those involved in the building and operations of mega-sized data centres are increasingly becoming adopters of these technologies. Once confident that ‘mirror’ sites in other geographies would eliminate risks surrounding downtime and disruption, these behemoths have begun adding clean agent and inert gas systems to augment sprinklers, protecting their

uptime and the value of highcost components. As power needs of data centres escalate and GPUs run hotter than ever, their intense energy loads create an exponentially higher fire risk. Owners and developers would be wise to consider the addition of clean agent and inert gas systems, an investment that makes all the difference in the event of fire. Please consult a qualified fire suppression expert for more information.

“Since 2014, there have been 24 documented reports of data centre fires, with 14 taking place since 2022.” Source: Dgtl Infra.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 37

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FIRE SERVICE | HEALTH & WELLBEING

The human element Bob Rea, QFSM, fire service veteran considers how to build a healthier, more resilient fire service

For years, firefighter readiness meant the ladder climb, the hose run and the confined-space crawl. Those remain important tests, but they no longer answer the whole question. I have spent more than 30 years around operational fire and rescue services, and the crews who perform best under pressure are not always simply the fittest on paper. They arrive rested, supported and psychologically ready for what the shift may ask of them. That is the shift modern services must make: not wellbeing as a separate conversation about the mind, but operational readiness as one continuous system. Equipment fails and is replaced. People are the constant. If their physical and psychological condition is treated as an afterthought, the capability protected by training, technology and expensive equipment is quietly eroded.

Physical readiness under operational load

Firefighting places exceptional demands on the cardiovascular and thermal systems. In one study of repeated firefighting activity over about three hours, firefighters’ core temperatures rose by an average of 1.9°C and continued to climb during later work cycles, despite breaks exceeding 30 minutes. This is a particularly important lesson for Civil Defence organisations operating in Gulf heat: a rest period does not automatically mean physiological recovery.

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Preparation therefore begins before mobilisation. Balanced nutrition, hydration and role-specific conditioning create the reserve needed for equipment carries, casualty evacuation, ladder work and prolonged operations. Strength and aerobic capacity matter, but so do mobility, heat acclimatisation and recovery. The practical controls are familiar: protected training time; ready access to water and electrolytes; urinecolour self-checks; work-rest rotation; active cooling; and supervisors who recognise altered movement, confusion or unusual quietness as possible early signs of heat illness. Hydration policy should be based on conditions, work rate, PPE and individual needs, not a single daily volume. Caffeine in moderate amounts need not be demonised, but it is not a substitute for water, food or sleep. Simple advice is more likely to be followed when it is built into watch routines rather than left on a poster. Each firefighter has a personal responsibility to monitor their condition and make sure they are well hydrated before attending their shift as demands of an incident can soon compromise their condition.

Sleep is a safety control

Fatigue is sometimes treated as an unavoidable feature of station life. The evidence says it should be treated as an operational hazard. A study of 6,933 firefighters across 66 US departments

found that 37.2% screened positive for at least one common sleep disorder. Those who screened positive had twice the odds of reporting a motor-vehicle crash and were also more likely to report cardiovascular disease, depression and anxiety. Services cannot guarantee uninterrupted nights, but they can screen for sleep disorders, educate crews and families, review shift patterns and avoid rewarding exhaustion as commitment. After a demanding night incident, leaders should consider whether the person is fit to drive, train or immediately return to high-risk duties. Fatigue reporting must be treated like equipment-defect reporting: useful safety information, not weakness. Each firefighter has the responsibility to ensure they are sufficiently rested to be ‘fit for duty’.

The cumulative bill

A well-trained body buys resilience, but it does not make anyone immune to what the job asks of the mind. Every difficult

FIRE SERVICE | HEALTH & WELLBEING

incident can leave something behind. I use an analogy with colleagues: everyone carries a box in which they place things they cannot immediately process, then close the lid. Keep adding without taking anything out and eventually the lid will not close. That is not weakness; it is capacity, both physical and mental. The consequences can be operational: reduced concentration, poorer judgement, irritability, disrupted sleep and withdrawal from the crew. Research involving 1,768 firefighters found fatigue, loss of interest and feelings of emptiness among the central links between post-traumatic stress and depressive symptoms. Leaders and watch officers need enough physiological and psychological literacy to recognise change early, without attempting to become clinicians.

Recovery after the incident

Post-incident support needs a clear pathway: an operational debrief to capture safety and learning; an immediate welfare check and practical support;

protected rest; discreet peer contact; follow-up after 24-72 hours and again later where exposure was significant; and rapid access to a qualified professional when symptoms persist or risk is identified. The distinction matters. People should not be compelled to recount emotions in a single-session psychological debrief. NICE advises against psychologically focused debriefing for preventing or treating PTSD because evidence shows no benefit and suggests possible worse outcomes. Good recovery practice offers information, observation, choice and continuing contact. It normalises expected reactions while ensuring that anyone who needs specialist care reaches it early.

Peer support, resilience and family

An Employee Assistance Programme is a route to help, not a complete strategy. Trained peer supporters can provide confidential first contact, listen without judgement and bridge a colleague to professional treatment. The International

Association of Fire Fighters’ programme, designed and delivered by firefighters, combines behavioural-health awareness with practical peer-support skills. In Canada, Road to Mental Readiness was adapted for firefighters through a fourhour frontline course and an eight-hour leadership course, using a mental-health continuum to recognise changing signs and intervene early. These examples offer a useful model for the Middle East, but not a template to copy unchanged. Civil Defence workforces may span many nationalities, languages and beliefs about psychological health. Peer selection, confidentiality rules, referral routes and training scenarios must fit that context. Resilience training should be recurrent, practical and linked to realistic exercises: recognising stress responses, controlled breathing, maintaining attention, supporting a colleague and knowing when to escalate. Families also need a place in the system. An induction or annual family session can explain shift disruption,

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 41

FIRE SERVICE | HEALTH & WELLBEING

common post-incident reactions and confidential support routes. Families should never be turned into unofficial clinicians, but they often notice changes before the organisation does. Giving them a named point of contact strengthens the safety net around the firefighter.

Technology with trust

Wearables and digital wellbeing platforms can add useful information on sleep, recovery trends, heart rate and heat strain. AI may help identify patterns and prompt an individual to reduce training load or seek advice. Yet these tools should support conversation, not automate fitness-for-duty decisions. Clear consent, data minimisation, clinical oversight and separation from punitive performance management are essential; without trust, firefighters will simply stop using them.

What leaders must do next

Leaders create culture through what they resource and what they tolerate. They should make physical training and recovery time real, train supervisors to recognise behavioural change, establish a confidential peer-to-professional pathway, include families, measure fatigue and absence trends, and review the system after significant incidents. Above all, they must ensure that asking for support is not perceived as career limiting. Progress also needs to be measured intelligently. Useful indicators include musculoskeletal injury and sickness absence, staff turnover, uptake and

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“Wearables and digital wellbeing platforms can add useful information on sleep, recovery trends, heart rate and heat strain” waiting time for confidential support, completion of welfare follow-ups after defined incident types, and whether crews believe they can report fatigue safely. Data should identify gaps in the system, not label individuals. A quarterly dashboard, reviewed alongside operational performance, makes wellbeing part of governance rather than an annual campaign. Recruitment interviews and exit conversations can then test whether the organisation’s promises are being experienced on the watch floor. For a service starting now, the first 90 days need not be complicated: establish a senior owner; map existing occupationalhealth, peer and family provision; identify gaps in post-incident follow-up; train an initial group of supervisors and peer supporters; and pilot the pathway at selected stations. Ask crews what

prevents them seeking help, correct the barriers they identify, then scale what works. Visible action builds more confidence than another policy launch. The strength of a fire and rescue service has never really been its appliances or equipment. It is the people who climb into them. Treat physical readiness and psychological resilience as parts of the same operational system, and the result is not simply a healthier workforce. It is safer decisions, stronger retention and a service better prepared for the next call.

Bob Rea is an emergency response professional with over 40 years of experience, who is recognised globally for his work in crisis management. He was awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal (QFSM).

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DIGITAL MONITORING | Q&A

Can digital monitoring improve confidence in foam proportioning systems? Fire Middle East speaks to Stuart Phythian, Regional Director Middle East, Africa, SE Asia, Oceania at FireDos, about the growing focus on system testing, operational readiness and digital records in foam proportioning systems, and the development of a digital monitoring layer for mechanical proportioners Why is the issue of monitoring and documenting foam proportioning systems becoming more important?

Synthetic fluorine-free foam (SFFF) costs substantially more per litre than the fluorinated foam it replaces. On a large site, concentrate is now a large share of the fire suppression system’s capital budget. Insurers and authorities having jurisdiction increasingly ask what evidence a facility can produce after an incident, and a handwritten annual test log covers only a fraction of what a continuous digital record shows.

How has the move towards fluorine-free foam affected the economics of system testing?

FM Global Data Sheet 4-12, NFPA 11, EN 13565-2 and AS 1851 require foam systems to test the admixing rate at least annually. In the UAE, Civil Defence practice references NFPA 11, so the annual test applies to foam systems here as well. A proportioner tested by discharging premix uses concentrate at every test. Over the life of the asset, annual testing wastes a large volume of expensive concentrate. FireDos proportioners fitted with the test return line and flowmeter can be tested without producing premix. A three-way ball valve on the foam pump outlet redirects concentrate through a flowmeter and a pressure sustaining valve, set to simulate operating pressure,

Illustrative view of RMS user interface readout

and back into the tank. The water motor’s revolution counter gives the water flow rate, and the return-line flowmeter gives the concentrate flow rate. The proportioning rate is calculated from the two flows. No concentrate is discharged during the test.

False discharge is a major concern for some facilities. What role can monitoring play in reducing avoidable errors?

False discharges remain a persistent problem in some facility types, aircraft hangars in particular, where an unplanned release can shut down operations and trigger a costly clean-up.

RMS does not change how a facility detects fire, so it cannot prevent a false discharge caused by the detection system. It can catch common human errors that leave the foam system in the wrong condition before it is needed. A high-high level alarm on the foam tank shows an unexpected rise in level, for example when water enters the tank through a wrong connection, so the plumbing error can be found and corrected early. A valve left in the wrong position on the flushing or return line is another common, avoidable error, which RMS reports as a status fault.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 47

DIGITAL MONITORING | Q&A

What does the system actually monitor, and how might that information be used?

The touchscreen display, on site or remotely through a secure VPN gateway, shows water and foam agent flow rate, proportioning rate and system status, alongside messages, warnings and alarms as they occur. RMS reports a live status as Readiness, Fault, Testing or In Operation to a remote fire alarm panel, alongside an alert when maintenance is due.

What are the limitations of digital monitoring, and where shouldn’t it be seen as a substitute for existing safeguards?

Illustrative view of RMS user interface readout

What kind of information can a digital record provide that a conventional test log cannot?

RMS records a full log of water flow, proportioning rate, valve position and system status during a discharge. Nobody has to reconstruct events afterwards. For loss adjusters, and for operators defending the performance of a system that has just fired, this log is evidence that the system performed as designed. Runtime counters and peak value logging build a service history without a technician present, and login control keeps configuration changes traceable to whoever made them. Every record exports via USB or via a secure VPN gateway. An interactive maintenance procedure walks the technician through each check in sequence and generates its own log automatically as the work is completed.

Is a digital record intended to replace existing inspection and testing documentation, or can it be considered a substitute for a physical test or competentperson inspection?

A digital record adds to existing documentation. RMS automatically records what happens between formal tests. The statutory test remains the formal proof of performance. The digital record shows how the system behaved during the rest of the year. Commissioning and acceptance testing at handover still needs a physical witness and sign-off by a competent person. The

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same applies to statutory and insurancemandated periodic tests, including physical sampling of foam concentrate for degradation, which RMS has no way to assess.

What happens to the system if the monitoring equipment loses power?

A water-driven proportioner runs on the extinguishing water flow itself and needs no electrical supply to proportion foam correctly. This makes it reliable through the power outages a fire itself might cause. RMS adds a digital layer without removing that independence. If the cabinet loses power, the proportioner keeps working. The cabinet runs on a standard 100 to 240 V AC supply. Fire systems normally have backup power through a secondary supply or UPS, so RMS can continue recording through a mains failure.

FireDos describes RMS as the first system of its kind. What exactly is new about the approach?

FireDos RMS is the first digital proofof-results system built onto a purely mechanical proportioner, a water-driven unit carrying a digital record of its own testing and operation. Electronically driven proportioners have reported status and logged data for years, because they are electronic by design. FireDos has added the same capability to a proportioner that needs no external power to proportion.

RMS only reports what it is instrumented to measure. Depending on configuration, this covers water and foam flow, proportioning rate, pressure and temperature, oil level and valve position. It says nothing about the chemical condition of the foam concentrate itself, which still needs periodic laboratory sampling, and nothing about wear or corrosion inside the pump that hasn’t yet affected performance. RMS monitors and reports. Fire detection and system release remain the job of the detection and fire alarm system. If a sensor fails or drifts, the display will show incorrect values until the sensor is checked.

How relevant is this approach to fire protection systems in the Middle East?

The Gulf has a concentration of high-value industrial and energy assets, including refineries, ports and airports, where the cost of an unplanned discharge or a failed test is significant. Insurers underwriting those assets expect the same standard of evidence wherever the site sits. Heat and dust in the Gulf are harder on equipment than in most markets, so continuous condition data helps maintenance teams find problems earlier. The push to reduce on-site manning on remote or high-hazard sites, already an established HSE priority in the region, depends on systems that report their own status remotely. Gulf operators are also moving to fluorine-free foam, so the cost of testing by discharge applies here too. firedos.com

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2027 FEATURES ISSUE 73

(APRIL)

The intelligent fire alarm The next generation of fire detection, including AI-enabled detection, advanced sensors, video analytics and integrated notification systems. Building fire safety from the ground up How fire safety is being integrated into building design from the outset, including fire engineering, evacuation, compartmentation and the changing role of the fire strategy. Fire safety for the mega-project The unique challenges of protecting complex Middle East developments, from construction through to completion, and the technologies being used to manage risk. The modern firefighter How training, fitness, technology and changing operational demands are reshaping the role of today’s firefighter. Fire Middle East Conference preview

ISSUE 74

(JULY)

The future of fire suppression The latest developments in sprinklers, water mist, gaseous suppression and other active systems – and where emerging technologies are changing the way fires are controlled. Passive protection under the microscope Why compartmentation, firestopping, fire doors and penetration seals remain critical – and how design, installation, inspection and maintenance affect realworld performance. Protecting the world’s busiest gateways Airports present distinctive fire safety challenges, from crowded public spaces and complex building layouts to aircraft hangars, fuel-related hazards and critical operational infrastructure. How are new technologies helping fire safety professionals detect incidents earlier, manage risk and maintain continuity of operations? The connected firefighter Wearable technology, connected communications, location tracking, physiological monitoring and other technologies designed to improve firefighter safety and situational awareness. Fire Middle East Conference review

ISSUE 75

(SEPTEMBER) High-rise fire safety: the next challenge New approaches to evacuation, smoke control, fire detection, suppression and structural protection in the region’s increasingly complex high-rise buildings. Protecting critical infrastructure Fire risks in data centres, energy facilities, utilities, transport infrastructure and other critical assets – and the technologies being deployed to improve resilience. AI and the future of fire response How artificial intelligence, predictive analytics and intelligent systems could improve detection, incident management, resource deployment and emergency response. Inside the modern fire station How technology, training, facilities and equipment are changing the way fire and rescue services prepare for and respond to emergencies. Battery fire safety: are Middle East codes ready? An examination of whether Middle East fire codes and regulations are keeping pace with the growing firesafety challenges posed by lithiumion batteries, BESS and EV charging infrastructure. Risk & resilience How the fire sector is adapting to evolving threats, extreme weather, critical infrastructure risks, changing building profiles and the growing focus on resilience. Intersec Saudi Arabia preview

Industrial fire protection Protecting petrochemical, manufacturing and industrial facilities from complex fire and explosion risks, with a focus on specialised detection, suppression and response. Code & compliance An update on new fire codes, standards, regulations and Civil Defence requirements across the Middle East – and what they mean for designers, consultants, contractors and building owners. From blueprint to maintenance Following fire protection through the building lifecycle, from design and specification to installation, commissioning, inspection and long-term maintenance. The year in fire The major incidents, technological developments, regulatory changes and industry trends that shaped fire safety across the Middle East during 2027. Sustainable fire protection How the fire industry is responding to water scarcity, environmental requirements and sustainable building design, from water-efficient suppression to lower-impact agents and materials. Intersec Dubai preview

ISSUE 76

(DECEMBER) Power and response: the next generation of fire apparatus The latest developments in fire and rescue vehicles, including electrification, alternative power, advanced pumping systems, specialist vehicles and onboard technology. Tools of the trade The latest equipment helping firefighters work more safely and effectively, from thermal imaging and breathing apparatus to cutting, rescue and extrication tools.

REGULARS Diary News pages Event previews/reviews Case studies Interviews Sector focus

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EUROPEAN WILDFIRES | OPERATIONS

Lessons from the fireline Dr Ing Holger de Vries reports from Sicily on what Italy’s experience of vegetation fires could teach fire and emergency services elsewhere One can take many management and command courses, yet nothing beats the information that a fire officer can gather from ‘Street University’ – or, in the case of wildfires (often called vegetation fires in Italy) ‘Field University’. This summer, I found myself on the Italian island of Sicily. Having grown up on the North Sea coast, my experience of fire service life has been governed more by storm damage, rain and flooding than by wildfires. That made Sicily an interesting place to learn. In traditionally wet and cold countries such as the UK, Ireland, Norway and Sweden, wildfires are increasing in frequency and severity. Italy offers

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a glimpse of how landscapes and vegetation might look in northern Europe if climate change forecasts hold true. Mediterranean fire and emergency services have had a head start of many decades in developing equipment, procedures and training for fierce wildfires. The question is whether some of that experience could also be relevant to other regions, including the Middle East. The answer is not necessarily about adopting the same vehicles or equipment. Some of the more interesting lessons are found in how resources are combined, how quickly they can be deployed and how different agencies work together.

Getting there early

According to the International Association of Fire and Rescue Services (CTIF), Italy has 902 fire stations, supported by 28,870 full-time and 20,060 volunteer firefighters, covering a country of 301,000 km² and a population of 59 million. Centralised procurement of vehicles and equipment in large quantities provides economies of scale, while also helping to standardise equipment and procedures. However, the Italian approach to wildfires is not based solely on specialist wildfire appliances. A typical rural fire station has three to four vehicles: a standard rescue pumper, a water tanker, one or more pickup trucks

EUROPEAN WILDFIRES | OPERATIONS

A double-cab pickup truck of the Corpo Forestale with high presssure fire suppression system

High pressure systems can penetrate crusted soil with deep seated fires

“Speed is only part of the equation.” by the civil protection agency are crewed by volunteers who are paged from their civilian workplaces. During the fire season, a crew member will take the pickup with them and collect other volunteers when an alarm is received. There is another advantage to this model: local knowledge. Volunteers are familiar with the area, including its back roads and access routes. In a wildfire scenario, that knowledge can be as valuable as the equipment carried by the vehicle.

Matching the response to the terrain

High pressure Unimog and a compact 7.400-L-tanker team up for a downhill slope fire by the roadside

and, where required, a specialist vehicle such as a pumper based on a Unimog or similar 4x4 chassis. That mix reflects an important operational principle. A wildfire starts small, and the ability to reach it quickly can be more important than having the largest appliance available. Across the fire service, civil protection and forestry agencies in Sicily, there are approximately 400 light 4x4 response vehicles. Older Land Rover Defenders remain common, while Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max and Toyota Hilux pickups are also now used as platforms.

Many of these vehicles carry around 400 litres of water and a high-pressure extinguishing system with foam proportioning and 80 to 100 metres of hose. At pump outlet pressures of 40 to 50 bar, the systems deliver around 40 litres per minute, with a throw range of approximately 15 metres in a solid stream. The precise equipment varies, but the tactical principle is similar: get a small, capable unit to an emerging fire and give its crew the means to attack it immediately. This is particularly relevant where access is difficult. The pickups operated

Speed is only part of the equation. Once crews reach a fire, the terrain and conditions determine what they can do. Italy does not use the complex specialist forest fire tanker trucks found in France, with integrated air supply and heat- and roll-over-protected crew cabins, or similar vehicles used in Spain. Instead, Italian fire brigades make use of a combination of standard appliances, tankers and more specialised 4x4 vehicles. Among the more distinctive are Italian Unimogs based on the U5023 chassis. The vehicles carry 3,850 litres of water and are equipped with high-pressure membrane pumps and hose reels. Their configuration allows crews to deploy hose rapidly, while the high-pressure water jet can help penetrate hard-crusted soil and reach deep-seated hotspots. The important point is not simply the capacity of the vehicle, but its ability to operate where a larger appliance may struggle. Standard rescue pumpers are also equipped with combined low- and high-pressure pumps. This gives crews flexibility in how water is delivered,

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 53

EUROPEAN WILDFIRES | OPERATIONS

The fading daylight in combination with the wind turbines prevented air support for this fire halfway between Realmonte and Siculiana. It was a textbook case of a fire climbing up the hilltop, driven by offshore tailwind, over the rim and down the other slope

while the vehicles also carry the equipment required for more conventional rescue work. Similarly, water tankers can support smaller appliances where no hydrant system is available. Larger tankers can act as ‘nursing tankers’, supplying water to smaller vehicles through shuttle operations. The result is a response that can be scaled according to the incident rather than relying on a single type of specialist appliance.

More than a firefighting operation Another lesson from Sicily is that wildfire response does not sit neatly within the boundaries of a single agency. Fire services, civil protection and forestry agencies all have a role, alongside the police and, where required, support from the armed forces, including engineers creating firebreaks. Aerial support is also closely integrated into the response. The Corpo Nazionale dei Vigili del Fuoco operates its own aircraft fleet, including Canadair CL-415 water bombers and helicopters. Canadairs are based at various locations or deployed through the COAU (Centro Operativo Aereo Unificato) when required for seasonal or temporary needs. The presence of so many agencies makes command, control and communications particularly important. Different organisations may arrive with

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different vehicles, crews and capabilities, but they still need to operate as part of a coherent response. This is not simply a matter of efficiency. A unified or well-coordinated command and communication structure is essential for the safety of the different units deployed as well as for the effectiveness of the overall response.

Preparing for what cannot be controlled

Sicily’s climate is classified as Mediterranean to subtropical and partly semi-arid. The island was originally completely forested, before trees were harvested for shipbuilding over millennia. Today, agricultural practices and the choice of plants being grown are also changing, with Sicilian farmers beginning to introduce tropical crops beyond traditional lemons and oranges. These are factors that the fire service cannot control. It cannot influence the weather or climate, decide which crops are planted, or determine how agriculture and forestry are managed. What it can control is how it prepares for the consequences. That preparation is visible in Sicily’s combination of rapid-response 4x4 vehicles, larger water-carrying appliances, specialist off-road capability, aerial resources and personnel drawn from different agencies.

For fire services in regions that have traditionally experienced fewer severe wildfires, this is perhaps the most important lesson. The answer to a changing wildfire environment is not necessarily to buy more specialist equipment. It is to understand the operational problem: how quickly can crews reach an emerging fire? Can they operate in difficult terrain? Can they secure enough water? Can different agencies work together? And is there a clear command structure when the incident escalates? From the perspective of the fire service, the climate, weather, agriculture and forestry are largely outside its control. The response is not. Having seen how the agencies in southern Italy are structured and equipped, they appear well prepared for the wildfire challenges they face today. Some of those ideas could be worth considering elsewhere, including in the Middle East.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT SOTERIA UL SOUNDER BASES

Smarter fire and CO notification in one solution Not every threat comes with flames, smoke or an obvious warning. Carbon monoxide (CO), an invisible danger, requires robust signalling to ensure people are protected. For system designers, achieving this while keeping installations flexible and straightforward can present its own challenges – conventionally, the requirement for multiple devices to facilitate different needs. That’s where Apollo’s Soteria UL Sounder Bases come in, the comprehensive device providing audible notification and intelligent detector compatibility with optional carbon monoxide detection in one versatile, addressable solution. The Soteria UL Sounder Base provides a flexible foundation for smoke, heat or multi-sensor detection. It can act as a sounder, or a sounder base with additional CO gas sensing, and can be paired with a range of detector heads, creating a flexible solution for a variety of fire and life safety applications. At the heart of the range is a choice between high-frequency and low-frequency sounder options. The high-frequency base provides Temporal 3 signalling for fire alarms and Temporal 4 signalling for CO events, which helps occupants distinguish between different types of alarm. Crucially, fire alarms take priority where both conditions are present. The low-frequency sounder base provides Temporal 3 and Temporal 4 signalling at 520 Hz, helping improve alarm effectiveness in sleeping environments. Research conducted over 20 years by the NFPA has shown 520 Hz low-frequency alarm signals to be particularly effective at waking sleeping occupants, including those who may be less responsive to traditional higherfrequency alarms. Here, providing a choice of sounder frequencies gives specifiers greater flexibility when designing an alarm system around the

requirements of a particular building or application. For environments where there is the additional risk of carbon monoxide, the CO detector is designed to respond according to the concentration and duration of CO exposure, in line with the alarm sensitivity and timing requirements of UL 2034 and UL 2075. Installation and commissioning flexibility are equally important in an addressable fire system. Both sounder base models can be individually addressed, while an optional XPERT card enables an additional detector to be addressed independently, giving installers greater flexibility when configuring devices to meet the needs of the wider system. Automatic daily tests can be carried out via the fire alarm control panel, while manual testing can be completed using

an onboard test button or appropriate CO test gas. Together, these options help provide confidence that both detection and notification functions remain ready to respond when required. For specifiers, installers and building operators, the Soteria UL Sounder Base brings together audible notification, optional CO detection, flexible addressing and straightforward maintenance in a single intelligent platform. The result is a versatile approach to fire and CO safety, designed to simplify system configuration without compromising the ability to provide clear and reliable warnings when they matter most. Want to learn more about the Soteria UL range? Scan the QR code.

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SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY | WILDFIRES

How space is changing wildfire response How can fire agencies stay ahead of wildfires across the Middle East’s vast and difficult terrain? Thomas Gruebler, Co-Founder of OroraTech and CEO of OroraTechUSA, looks at how satellite intelligence is moving the focus from simply detecting fires to understanding what happens next

Wildfires do not always start where someone is watching. They can ignite in mountain ranges, remote valleys, agricultural areas, or places far from people, cameras and other ground-based detection systems. By the time smoke is visible, someone reports the fire, or crews can reach it, conditions may already have changed significantly. That is where space can provide something different. Satellites can monitor large areas at once, including terrain where traditional detection infrastructure may be limited or nonexistent. Thermal sensors can identify active fire at night and through smoke, giving fire agencies another source of

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information when visibility from the ground is limited. For countries across the Middle East, that capability has clear relevance. The region includes large remote areas, mountainous terrain, wadis, agricultural land and expanding development in areas where wildfire can be difficult to detect and manage. The 2025 Latakia wildfires in Syria showed how challenging those conditions can become. More than 15,000 hectares — approximately 37,000 acres — burned across several mountain ranges, displacing thousands of people. Firefighters from Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon,

Iraq and Qatar joined Syrian crews in a response that lasted 10 days. For an incident like Latakia, the value of space is not simply putting another fire on a map. It is having another way to maintain visibility across a large area as conditions change — and getting that information into the hands of people making decisions on the ground.

Seeing a fire earlier

This is no longer an emerging or theoretical capability. Indeed OroraTech’s wildfire technology has been operational since 2019. Since then, fires around the world have provided examples of

SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY | WILDFIRES

“Satellites are not going to replace aircraft, cameras, lookout towers or firefighters on the ground.”

where satellites can help fill gaps in traditional detection and monitoring. That has continued this year, with examples globally showing how space-based intelligence can support active wildfire response. One earlier example came from the Lava Fire in Idaho, United States. While the geography is different from the Middle East, the operational problem is familiar: a fire started in a remote area and grew for a significant period before it was reported to officials. The fire was first reported at 11:50 p.m. on September 2, 2024, when approximately 30 acres had already

burned. Satellite data later showed a thermal signature associated with the fire almost 72 hours before that official report. That gap is the important part of the story. Acting on that fire ignition at the start of that critical three-day window could have helped avoid an estimated $35.2 million in suppression costs, according to a post-incident analysis. In remote terrain, there may not be a person nearby, a camera pointed in the right direction or an aircraft overhead. Earlier satellite information can give an agency an opportunity to investigate an ignition, understand what is happening around it, and determine whether resources need to be deployed before the incident grows. For countries across the Middle East responsible for large, remote or difficultto-access landscapes, the same principle applies. But detecting a fire earlier only gets you so far. Once responders know there is a fire, the questions change quickly. How large is it? Where is the active fire? How is it behaving? What is nearby? Is it moving towards a road, community, critical infrastructure or other values at risk? And what could it do over the next several hours? Those are the questions that begin to drive the response.

From detection to decisions

Modern satellite wildfire systems can provide much more than the location of an ignition. Thermal detections can show where activity is occurring and how that activity changes over time. That information can be combined with weather, terrain, fuels, infrastructure and other operational data to give fire managers a better picture of the incident. Fire spread modelling adds another piece by helping agencies understand

where a fire could move over the next several hours. For a fire manager, the practical question is simple: Where do I need my resources? Former Type 1 Incident Commander Mark Morales describes the value in those terms. Detection is important, but so is understanding values at risk, fire behaviour, potential spread and how best to use the resources available. “Using this satellite technology, I can review values at risk, fire behaviour, fire spread modelling, and I can quickly make decisions on the best way to allocate the resources that are available,” said Morales. For agencies with few resources, Morales added that the ability to make decisions quickly and to allocate resources appropriately is particularly important, especially during times when they receive multiple fire response requests. A larger fire in a remote area may not require the same response as a smaller fire moving quickly toward a community or piece of critical infrastructure. Having information on both the current fire and its potential behaviour gives responders another tool for making those decisions. And that information does not have to live in a separate system. Satellite detections and wildfire intelligence can be delivered through formats such as GeoJSON, KML and KMZ and integrated into GIS and operational platforms that agencies already use. The technology is most useful when the data reaches firefighters in the workflows where decisions are already being made.

Filling the gaps

Satellites are not going to replace aircraft, cameras, lookout towers or firefighters on the ground. Each provides a different view of the fire. Cameras can provide continuous visibility when an incident is within

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SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY | WILDFIRES

range. Aircraft can collect highly detailed information when they are available to fly. Ground crews provide observations and judgement from the incident itself. Space fills a different gap. A satellite can observe areas where cameras have not been installed, where terrain limits visibility, or where crews have not yet arrived. It can also monitor much larger geographic areas without requiring new infrastructure across every part of the landscape. But the bigger opportunity is bringing those different sources together. Fire managers rarely make decisions from one data source alone. Satellite technology can combine its own satellite intelligence with public satellite data, weather, fire reporting systems, GIS layers

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and other operational information, giving agencies a more complete view of an incident in one place. That does not mean replacing the systems agencies already use. It means reducing the need to jump between disconnected sources and helping teams work from the same underlying information. The closer agencies can get to a shared operational picture, the easier it becomes to understand what is happening, what has changed and where attention and resources may be needed next.

A regional model is already emerging

Greece offers one example of where this is heading.

In May 2026, the country launched the Hellenic Fire System, a national wildfire monitoring system built around four dedicated thermal satellites. Developed for the Greek Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, the system was designed specifically for wildfire detection and tracking across Greece. The system can detect small wildfire starts and combines satellite monitoring with fire spread forecasting up to 24 hours in advance. Its thermal sensors can identify active heat at night and through smoke, where traditional optical imagery can be limited. For countries across the Middle East, Greece provides a nearby example of what is possible when satellite technology is built specifically around the wildfire mission. Satellites have played a role in observing fires for decades. What is changing is the amount of information that can now be delivered, how quickly it can reach responders and what agencies can do with it once it arrives. A fire manager does not need another technology simply because it is in space. They need to know about a fire sooner. They need to maintain visibility when terrain, smoke, darkness or distance make that difficult. They need to understand what the fire may threaten next. And they need that information alongside the other tools and intelligence they already rely on. That is where space can make a difference. ororatech.com

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FIREFIGHTERS | FARS

When the air runs out Megan von Wedell, Business Development & Sales Manager at Johnson Controls, says it’s time to rethink firefighter breathing air as essential infrastructure in tall and complex buildings

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FIREFIGHTERS | FARS

The urban landscapes of the Middle East are undergoing a profound transformation. Already home to some of the world’s tallest buildings, expansive retail destinations and sophisticated distribution centres, the region has continued to experience significant construction and development growth. Large-scale megaprojects are reshaping cities throughout Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. And a robust project pipeline — fuelled by power generation development, aviation hubs and hospitality expansions throughout the region — indicates continued momentum. In fact, Deloitte reports that construction spending has reached record levels across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), surpassing the previous 2014 peak by 78%. Alongside this surge in development, national initiatives including Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Net Zero 2050 have accelerated the adoption of sustainability strategies, advanced building intelligence and other high-performance architectural tactics. Yet as the region’s built environment continues to evolve, a key question has emerged: Are critical fire safety and firefighting infrastructures advancing at the same pace?

High rise challenges

Typical fire protection designs within commercial buildings give firefighters access to water, communications and protected routes, yet replenishment air is often treated as something responders must transport themselves. Traditional civil defense methods largely rely on a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) carried by firefighters. The average SCBA is designed to provide air for a predetermined length of time, sometimes as little as 20 minutes. Within high-rise towers and expansive horizontal facilities, accessing breathable air becomes even more critical for firefighters as they focus on saving lives and protecting property. Large-scale buildings present complex challenges for firefighter access and navigation, as well as ensuring safe occupant egress. They can also present unique fire risks. High-rise buildings can create a ‘stack effect’ that can amplify

the spread of smoke and fire as air rapidly moves through vertical shafts like stairwells within the building. These risks can be further intensified by strong, high-altitude winds that can quickly feed flames. In horizontal buildings, open floor plans provide room for smoke and fire to quickly spread, especially in sites like retail environments and warehouses where flammable inventory can be highly concentrated. In those situations, it’s easy to see how 20 minutes of breathable air can quickly become insufficient. Modern buildings have evolved to incorporate fire detection and communication equipment, automatic sprinkler systems, water pumps, emergency lighting and wayfinding as part of the permanent infrastructure. Similarly, Firefighter Air Replenishment Systems (FARS) are also emerging as a deliberate design imperative to help maintain life safety and building resiliency within complex architectural structures.

Developing FARS as essential building infrastructure

FARS is a technology designed to help civil defense members address and move beyond the limitations of self-transported SCBA. Firefighters can connect their SCBA to on-demand breathable air directly from the FARS system as soon as they arrive on scene. This can help to enhance safety for fire teams while allowing more focus on active firefighting by minimising or eliminating the need for an SCBA ‘bottle brigade’ and cylinder staging. As part of the building infrastructure, a FARS supplies safe, breathable air refills from a standpipe. Air is distributed through a network of stainless-steel pipes that run vertically (for high-rise structures) or horizontally (for horizontal structures) within the building. A dedicated air supply source, typically located within an on-site cascade air storage system, is designed to supply the FARS with a specified number of air refills based on the needs of the civil defense for the building until first responders can connect a mobile air unit to the system, thereby enabling a continuous supply of air. This air storage system provides breathing

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FIREFIGHTERS | FARS

air to emergency air fill panels located throughout the facility. Modern FARS are equipped with an air monitoring system that automatically monitors and verifies the air supply. The system continuously evaluates the air supply for humidity, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxygen, nitrogen and hydrocarbons to ensure that the breathing air within the tanks is maintained at high quality while stored. In high-rise buildings, FARS air fill panels are typically placed within stairwells, providing firefighters with convenient access as they ascend and descend from the incident area. In large, horizontal buildings, FARS air fill panel placement is often recommended adjacent to fire sprinkler standpipes. In both applications, the local jurisdiction may also provide installation guidelines to help enhance optimal firefighter access while maintaining safe occupancy standards. Once installed, firefighters can activate the system by connecting their SCBA cylinder to the fill panel using a high-pressure fill hose located within the panel. On average, a FARS can refill an SCBA cylinder within two minutes or less

“Large-scale buildings present complex challenges for firefighter access and navigation” while the firefighter remains on mask under full respiration.

Making the case for FARS

Protecting against loss of life will always remain the top priority in fire safety. However, for building owners and operators, a single fire incident can present long-lasting challenges. Smoke contamination can make facilities uninhabitable for lengthy periods, and structural damage from flames can require time-consuming and costly repairs. This property damage can present insurmountable risk that

is further compounded by lost revenue during unplanned downtime. In the U.S. alone, fire-related costs in commercial buildings average upwards of $3 billion per year, according to the U.S .Chamber of Commerce Foundation. For some building developers, the idea of integrated FARS may feel cost prohibitive. However, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that installing FARS as a part of the building infrastructure can be less than just 1% of the total construction cost. Additionally, equipping a building with FARS can help to reduce the risk of lost revenue and potential building repairs. With FARS in place, firefighters have access to breathing air and therefore a better chance of battling the fire. In turn, this can mean faster fire containment and suppression to help minimise the spread of smoke and reduce fire damage.

Ensuring safer high-rise rescues

As buildings become taller, larger and more complex, fire system designs must keep pace to ensure firefighter and occupant safety now and in the future. FARS represents an important advancement in this evolution by extending building safety infrastructure to include a resource that is vital to firefighters: safe, breathable air. Modern buildings routinely provide firefighters with critical infrastructure such as water access, communication systems and protected access routes. Integrating air replenishment into the building can enable faster fire response, allowing firefighters to spend more time actively engaged in fire suppression efforts. As part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy, FARS can help ensure safer and more effective firefighting while at the same time bringing peace of mind to occupants and building owners. johnsoncontrols.com/fars

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FIRE SAFETY | CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Keeping the lights on When fire strikes a power station, data centre or transit tunnel, the consequences reach far beyond the site boundary. Designing for resilience means planning for continuity of service as well as life safety. By Peter Stephenson, BEng (Hons), FIFireE, international Fire and Life Safety Engineer Critical infrastructure is defined less by what it is than by what happens when it fails. In March 2025, a fire at an electrical substation in west London shut Heathrow Airport for most of a day, affecting more than a thousand flights and hundreds of thousands of passengers. In 2021, a fire at a data centre campus in Strasbourg took millions of websites offline and destroyed customer data that had no off-site backup. Neither incident caused a fatality, yet both showed how one fire in one asset can

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spread disruption across a region or an economy. For the GCC, the stakes are rising quickly. National transformation programmes are delivering new metro networks, desalination plants, district cooling systems, hyperscale data centres and large battery energy storage installations to support renewable generation. Many sit within giga-projects where multiple assets are connected and depend on each other. Fire safety in this

environment is no longer only a building control matter. It is a question of national resilience.

A different risk equation

Conventional fire codes are built around occupants: getting people out safely and keeping the structure standing long enough for them to do so. Many infrastructure assets are lightly occupied, and some are unmanned. Their consequences are measured in lost

FIRE SAFETY | CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

service, cascading failure, environmental damage and risk to responding firefighters. That changes the brief. Early in design, the fire strategy should set clear performance objectives across life safety, asset protection, operational continuity, environmental protection and firefighter safety. The operator, insurer, Civil Defence authority and sector regulator should all agree those objectives before the first layout is fixed. The standards landscape reflects this diversity: Power generation: NFPA 850 IT and telecommunications facilities: NFPA 75 and 76 Fixed guideway transit: NFPA 130 Road tunnels: NFPA 502 Wastewater treatment: NFPA 820 Energy storage systems: NFPA 855 In Saudi Arabia these sit alongside SBC 801 and the requirements of the General Directorate of Civil Defence. Across the wider region, equivalent national codes apply. Prescriptive provisions rarely fit unusual geometries and hazards neatly, so performance-based design is often the only credible route. That makes rigorous peer review and early agreement with the authority essential.

Designing for resilience

The most important design principle in critical infrastructure is that redundancy is only real if one fire cannot defeat it. An N+1 electrical system provides no resilience if both supply paths run through the same cable tray. Duty and standby pumps offer little protection if they share a single room. Effective fire engineering therefore means: segregating cable routes; providing fire-rated separation between redundant plant; using spatial separation where construction alone is not enough. Oil-filled transformers are a classic example. Separation distances, fire barrier walls, oil containment and drainage must work together to stop a single transformer failure from spreading to its neighbours. Tunnels and underground transit stations bring their own challenges: Ventilation: longitudinal or transverse systems must control smoke under a design fire that reflects today’s vehicle fleet, including electric vehicles. Escape: cross-passages and protected

Key standards at a glance Asset / topic

Key reference

Power generation

NFPA 850

IT and telecommunications facilities

NFPA 75 / NFPA 76

Fixed guideway transit and rail

NFPA 130

Road tunnels

NFPA 502

Wastewater treatment

NFPA 820

Energy storage systems

NFPA 855 / UL 9540A

Emergency management and continuity

NFPA 1660 / ISO 22301

Cybersecurity of connected systems

IEC 62443

routes must be sized for realistic evacuation times. Structure: linings may need protection against hydrocarbon fire curves with rapid temperature rise, not the standard cellulosic curve. Data centres introduce subtler issues. Hot and cold aisle containment changes airflow patterns and can badly affect smoke detector performance if detection design is not coordinated with the mechanical engineer. In the Gulf, geography adds a further layer. Many infrastructure sites are remote from municipal water mains and from fire stations. These sites need dedicated water storage and fire pump installations, and they need response time assumptions that are realistic rather than optimistic. High ambient temperatures also affect equipment ratings, battery thermal management and firefighter endurance, and designers should allow for all three.

Protection systems matched to the hazard

Detection must be chosen for the specific hazard: Aspirating smoke detection gives very early warning in data halls, control rooms and switchgear rooms, where a smouldering cable fault can be caught before it becomes a fire. Fibre-optic linear heat detection suits

long cable tunnels, conveyors and road tunnels. It provides continuous temperature profiling and pinpoints the location of an event. Multi-spectrum infrared flame detectors protect fuel handling areas. Gas detection plays a growing role, particularly in battery rooms. Suppression requires equally careful selection: Pre-action sprinklers remain the benchmark in many data centres, balancing reliability against the consequences of accidental discharge. Water mist offers effective cooling with much less water, which suits turbine enclosures and some electrical spaces. Clean agent systems using inert gases or fluoroketone agents protect high-value electrical and telecommunications rooms. They depend on room integrity testing, pressure relief venting and a realistic hold time. Fluorine-free foams are replacing fluorinated foams at fuel storage and aviation facilities, as PFAS regulation tightens internationally. This change requires re-validation of application rates and system design. Battery energy storage deserves particular attention. Lithium-ion thermal runaway releases flammable gases that can

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FIRE SAFETY | CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

build up and ignite explosively. A 2019 explosion at a storage facility in Arizona seriously injured several firefighters, and the January 2025 fire at the Moss Landing facility in California led to evacuations and prolonged community concern. Good practice now combines: large-scale fire test data under UL 9540A; off-gas detection that warns before thermal runaway spreads; explosion control through deflagration venting or exhaust ventilation; enough spacing between units to limit spread. No protection system is better than its maintenance. Inspection, testing and maintenance regimes aligned with NFPA 25 and NFPA 72, or their local equivalents, are fundamental. So is disciplined impairment management. Fires in critical facilities often occur while a system is isolated for work, which is exactly when protection is weakest.

Emergency response planning

Even the best-designed facility will eventually depend on people. Emergency response planning for critical infrastructure must go well beyond an evacuation drawing. Pre-incident plans should be developed jointly with Civil Defence. They should give responders site-specific tactical information, including: electrical isolation points and energised hazards; hazardous material inventories; water supply locations; hazard-specific cautions, such as not opening the doors of a battery enclosure in thermal runaway. Command arrangements must define how an on-site emergency response team hands over to the statutory fire service, and how the operator’s technical staff support the incident commander. Joint doctrine helps here. The principles set out in the UK’s JESIP framework, such as shared situational awareness and structured information exchange using METHANE, translate well to multi-agency incidents in the Gulf. Planning should also accept that aggressive firefighting is not always the right answer. For a fully involved transformer or battery installation, a defensive strategy that protects exposures and lets the fire burn out under control may be safer and more effective. That

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“New technologies need independent testing and listing before they are relied on for life safety” decision is far easier to make at the incident if it was considered and agreed in advance. Emergency response must also connect directly to business continuity. Frameworks such as ISO 22301 and NFPA 1660 help organisations link fire scenarios to recovery time objectives, so plans cover restoration of service as well as extinguishment. Regular joint exercises, including night-time and degraded-communications scenarios, turn documents into capability.

Innovation brings its own obligations. New technologies need independent testing and listing before they are relied on for life safety. Connected fire systems are also part of the cyber attack surface, so network segregation and security standards such as IEC 62443 should be designed in from the outset.

Innovation reshaping the sector

Resilience by design

Technology is changing how infrastructure is protected: Digital twins combine fire system data with building management and SCADA platforms, giving operators a live picture of system health, impairments and incident development. AI-driven video analytics can detect smoke and flame in large open spaces such as depots, substations and solar fields, where traditional detectors struggle. Drones with thermal imaging support incident size-up on large sites and routine inspection of hard-to-reach assets. Robotic firefighting platforms are being deployed in tunnels and high-hazard industrial settings to keep crews out of harm’s way.

Connected devices and predictive analytics are moving maintenance from fixed schedules towards conditionbased intervention.

The lesson from recent incidents is clear. Fire safety in critical infrastructure cannot be an afterthought or a compliance exercise. It must start at concept stage, be shaped by clear performance objectives, be delivered through well-integrated protection systems and be sustained by trained people and tested plans. As the Gulf invests in the infrastructure that will power its future economies, fire and life safety professionals need a seat at the table from day one, because the cost of getting it wrong is measured in more than damaged buildings. Peter Stephenson is an international Fire & Life Safety Specialist with over 40 years of experience and is a Committee Member of the IFE GCC UAE Branch.

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FIRE ENGINEERING | CFD

CFD: Risk tool or tick box? Are we using CFD to understand fire risk – or simply to obtain approval? asks Vinay Deshpande, Founder and Managing Director, Vitruvius Fire Safety Consulting FZ-LLC Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is one of the most powerful tools in performance-based fire engineering. But, its value depends on the questions we allow it to answer. Few things in fire engineering are as persuasive as a well-rendered CFD animation. Smoke rolls across an atrium ceiling, the layer settles, and temperature and visibility are reported to decimal

places. Tenability is met or lost at a stated second. Every value looks measured. But precision of output is not certainty of outcome. Visibility of 10.2 m at 420 seconds describes one particular set of assumptions. It is a conditional prediction, not a guarantee of conditions during a real fire. Used well, Computational Fluid Dynamics helps us understand complex spaces and assess departures from

prescriptive provisions. The question is, what are we asking it to establish?

What result would change the design?

Every CFD study should answer one question honestly: did we use the model to test whether the design works, or construct the model to demonstrate that it works?

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FIRE ENGINEERING | CFD

“The most useful CFD study may be the one that identifies a weakness while there is still time to correct it.” On a fast-track Gulf project, design, procurement and construction can advance together. The architecture is fixed, the programme is tight and the smoke-control system has already been priced. A brief to ‘support the approval’ can quietly narrow the investigation. Assumptions producing a pass begin to look reasonable; those producing a fail begin to look overly conservative. Revising an assumption is legitimate when evidence supports it. Changing it solely because the result is inconvenient undermines the exercise. The same scrutiny should apply to an assumption that improves the result as to one that makes it worse. Otherwise, even technically defensible choices can accumulate into an unduly favourable account of performance. A useful test is to ask what finding would prompt the team to reconsider the design. An investigation must leave room for an unwelcome answer.

The assumptions shape the answer

Weak assumptions can produce sophisticated-looking results. A refined mesh cannot compensate for an unjustified design fire. Fire location, growth rate, smoke production and ventilation conditions all influence the conclusion. Consider an atrium study that caps the fire on the assumption of sprinkler control. That needs a defensible basis in the fuel, protection arrangement and activation conditions. Sprinkler activation does not, by itself, establish that growth immediately stops or that the fire is extinguished. Calling an assumption “conservative” does not settle the matter either. It can be conservative for one outcome and less so for another. Sensitivity analysis must examine credible variations in the inputs that materially affect the decision and report whether the conclusion survives.

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Technical review also needs to establish that the model suits the application, that relevant validation evidence supports its use, and that mesh resolution does not undermine the conclusion.

The danger of the beautiful picture

A visibility slice communicates instantly in a way that a table of assumptions rarely does. The image shows the consequences of the inputs; it does not expose the judgement behind them. A reviewer might see an escape route remaining clear without seeing that replacement air enters through doors the building manager normally keeps locked. The analysis depends on those doors releasing and opening at the required time. Engineers must make the basis as visible as the result. For Civil Defence authorities reviewing performance-based submissions, three questions deserve prominence: why these scenarios, what changes could overturn the conclusion, and how will the critical assumptions be verified?

Choose scenarios for what they might reveal

A sophisticated model of the wrong scenario offers less safety insight than a simpler analysis of the right one. The largest fire is not automatically the most challenging: a smaller fire beside an escape route can be more consequential.

A baggage fire beneath a low ceiling, ineffective sprinkler control or a door held open during evacuation could reveal dependencies that a convenient atrium fire misses. Selection needs a reasoned basis, including why other scenarios were excluded. BS 7974’s qualitative design review establishes the scope, objectives and performance criteria and considers potential solutions. An agreed fire engineering brief should record the scenario-selection approach before results are known. Where evacuation safety is the objective, CFD findings must be considered alongside detection, occupant response and escape time, with an appropriate margin. CFD alone does not establish evacuation time. Nor does a scenario calculation quantify overall building risk: it describes consequences under specified conditions, leaving likelihood and reliability to be considered within the wider assessment.

Carry the findings into the building

The conclusions remain applicable only while the conditions underpinning them hold. Extract duties, replacementair paths, compartmentation, smoke curtains and control sequences become requirements to carry into coordinated drawings, specifications and the fire strategy. A make-up air louvre removed during value engineering, an open shopfront where glazing was assumed, or a changed fan duty can undermine that basis. Each change warrants assessment of its effect on the conclusions. Every study needs a concise assumptions register identifying each critical dependency, its physical or operational requirement, who will deliver it and how it will be verified. This gives contractors and operators usable information beyond the modelling report.

“A useful test is to ask what finding would prompt the team to reconsider the design.”

FIRE ENGINEERING | CFD

Will this door open when the model assumes it will? Predicted performance depends on conditions delivered, tested and maintained.

The Building

Conditions to verify

The Model

Predicted performance

Conceptual illustration - not simulation results

Acceptance of a CFD report does not establish that its assumptions exist in the finished building. Targeted inspection before critical elements are concealed, review of site changes and commissioning are essential to connect the analysis with construction. Integrated cause-and-effect testing should confirm that fans, dampers, doors, curtains and alarms operate in the required sequence and timing. NFPA 3 addresses commissioning; NFPA 4 addresses integrated fire protection and life safety system testing. Confirming that an extract fan runs is insufficient if the replacement-air path is unavailable. These checks verify implementation of the strategy. They do not reproduce every predicted fire condition or remove modelling uncertainty. At completion, the fire engineer should identify which critical

assumptions have been verified, how, and which remain unresolved. The discipline continues during operation. A new kiosk, altered partition or changed storage can affect the modelling basis. Operators need to know which changes require engineering review.

Judge the study by the decisions it improves

The most useful CFD study may be the one that identifies a weakness while there is still time to correct it. Clients should appoint fire engineers early enough for analysis to influence design. Engineers must explain what unfavourable findings mean and recommend a response. A study that exposes an inadequate margin has supplied information the project needs.

Approval should recognise a resolved engineering problem, with its conditions clearly understood. When we commission a study, we should ask what it needs to investigate. When we review it, we should ask which assumptions sustain its conclusions. At handover, we should ask whether those assumptions have been delivered. CFD should help engineers discover uncomfortable answers, not merely provide comfortable ones.

Vinay Deshpande is Founder and Managing Director of Vitruvius Fire Safety Consulting FZ LLC,. He has over 30 years of international experience in fire protection engineering, code consultancy and life safety strategy.

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 73

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Deafgard: The alarm for the deaf and hard of hearing Guest safety is a top priority for hotels, and providing inclusive solutions is essential in today’s hospitality landscape. Fireco’s Deafgard is an innovative device designed to protect deaf and hard of hearing individuals during emergencies, offering peace of mind to both guests and hotel operators. Deafgard seamlessly combines functionality, portability and compliance, making it a vital component of modern safety protocols. Deafgard is a battery or mains-powered unit designed for bedside use. It includes a vibration pad placed under the pillow, a flashing light and a screen that displays the word “FIRE” when an alarm is detected. If the fire alarm sounds, the pad vibrates and the lights flash, ensuring immediate and clear notification for guests who cannot rely on audible alerts.

A portable, cost-effective solution One of Deafgard’s greatest advantages is its portability. Unlike hardwired systems, Deafgard requires no installation or integration with a hotel’s fire alarm system. This makes it an ideal solution for properties of all types, whether new builds or heritage hotels. Guests can take the device to their room and set it up independently, ensuring their safety while maintaining their privacy. This simplicity also translates into cost savings for hotel operators, as there’s no need for expensive retrofitting or complex installation processes. Additionally, Deafgard complies with elements of the Equality Act 2010, helping hotels meet their legal obligations to provide an inclusive environment.

Enhancing guest confidence

For deaf or hard of hearing guests, staying in a hotel equipped with Deafgard offers reassurance. It provides independence and ensures guests are alerted in emergencies without the need for intervention by staff or strangers. “For someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, a stranger coming into your hotel room to alert you of an emergency could be distressing. Thankfully we found

Deafgard. Our guests can take the device to their room as it is easily portable, and they can relax knowing they will be alerted automatically in the event of a fire” explained Ben Hewitt, Hotel Manager.

Operational benefits for hotels

Deafgard also streamlines hotel operations. Its portability allows staff to allocate devices to specific rooms when needed, and its straightforward design makes maintenance simple.

“The Deafgard unit provides our hotel customers with a reliable solution that ensures deaf and hard-of-hearing guests will be alerted if a fire breaks out” shared Babette Potter, Sales Administrator. With its focus on safety, inclusivity, and practicality, Deafgard from Fireco is a valuable investment for any hotel. fireco.uk 01273 320650

MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE FIREFIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 70 | 75| 79

PERSONNEL | TRAINING

In fire and life-safety, credibility matters. Teams need trainers who understand systems, hazards, emergency procedures and the realities of operating under pressure. But there is a common assumption that the person with the strongest technical background will be the strongest trainer. The two capabilities overlap, but they are not the same.

76 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71

This distinction matters particularly in the Gulf, where fire and life-safety teams may be multinational, multilingual and spread across complex environments such as high-rise developments, hotels, industrial facilities, logistics operations, healthcare sites and large public venues. The trainer’s job is not simply to know the correct procedure. It is to make sure other

people can understand it, perform it and repeat it reliably when conditions are less than ideal.

Start with the performance required

Training is strongest when it begins with the behaviour that must be demonstrated, rather than with a slide deck or a list of

PERSONNEL | TRAINING

“A technically competent trainer can add significant value by building realistic variables into exercises”

topics. For an evacuation role, that might mean recognising the alarm, directing people to the correct route, checking an allocated area, communicating clearly and reporting at the assembly point. For an equipment role, it may mean selecting, checking and using equipment within defined limits. The trainer should be able to describe what competent performance looks like before deciding how to teach it. This also makes assessment more meaningful. Attendance proves that someone was present; it does not prove that they can carry out the required action. A short practical demonstration, scenario, questioning sequence or observed drill can give much stronger evidence of participants’ readiness.

Design for a multilingual workforce

Many Middle East workplaces operate with teams drawn from several countries and language backgrounds. In that environment, fluent presentation is not enough. Instructions should be short, consistent and supported by clear visual cues. Trainers should avoid unnecessary jargon, check the meaning of safetycritical terms, and ask people to explain actions back in their own words rather than relying on a simple ‘yes’ when asked whether they understand. Where translated materials are used, the practical demonstration still matters. A translated document can support learning, but it cannot show whether

the learner can identify the correct exit, operate a call point, follow the escalation route or carry out a role under realistic conditions.

Use drills to test systems, not just people

Drills are often treated as pass-or-fail events. A more useful approach is to treat them as controlled tests of the whole system: people, communication, routes, supervision, equipment and decisionmaking. The UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice includes requirements around emergency action planning and evacuation drills, while Saudi Arabia’s current Saudi Fire Protection Code (SBC 801) provides the regulatory framework for

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 77

PERSONNEL | TRAINING

fire protection and life-safety systems. The precise obligations vary by jurisdiction and occupancy, so organisations should always work to the requirements that apply locally. A technically competent trainer can add significant value by building realistic variables into exercises: an unavailable primary route, a missing person report, a communication failure, a contractor unfamiliar with the site, or a team member who needs additional assistance. The important point is that complexity should be controlled and purposeful. An exercise should reveal whether the system works, not create confusion for its own sake.

Develop trainers to observe and give feedback

One of the clearest differences between a subject expert and an effective trainer is the quality of observation and feedback. Weak feedback is general: ‘That was fine’ or ‘Be quicker next time’. Strong feedback identifies the behaviour, explains its consequence and states what should change. For example: ‘You gave the instruction clearly, but you did not confirm that the rear office had been checked. On the next drill, complete your area check before reporting to the assembly point.’ This approach is especially valuable when supervisors, fire wardens or

78 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71

internal instructors are expected to coach colleagues between formal training sessions. It creates a common language for improvement and makes refresher training more targeted.

Separate technical authority from teaching authority

Experienced engineers, firefighters, safety managers and emergency-response specialists should absolutely contribute technical expertise. But organisations should be deliberate about who designs learning, who delivers it and who judges competence. Sometimes the same person can do all three well; sometimes a technical specialist is more effective when paired with someone who has stronger training and assessment skills. That separation also helps when contractors or external specialists are involved. A provider may understand a system in detail, while the site team understands local hazards, workforce needs and emergency arrangements. The strongest training combines both perspectives rather than assuming one replaces the other.

Build internal trainer capability deliberately A simple internal-trainer development process can be highly effective. First,

confirm technical competence. Second, teach the trainer how to plan a short session around clear outcomes. Third, observe them delivering to a real group. Fourth, assess whether they can question, demonstrate, correct and give feedback. Finally, review their performance after live drills or refresher activity. This does not need to become bureaucratic. The aim is a proportionate system that gives leaders confidence that trainers are not merely knowledgeable, but able to transfer that knowledge into consistent workplace behaviour.

The practical test

The most useful question for any fire and life-safety training programme is not ‘Has everyone completed the course?’ It is ‘What can they now do correctly that they could not reliably do before?’ For safetycritical roles, that difference matters. Technical expertise gives training its authority. Training competence gives that expertise a route into other people’s performance. Organisations that develop both are better placed to build teams that can respond consistently when procedures move from paper to reality.

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FIRE TRAINING | VIRTUAL REALITY

A new dimension in fire safety training Emerging technology is showing how the sector can reduce fire risk and increase capability. The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) takes a closer look at how virtual reality in fire safety training could lead to a better fire future Virtual Reality (VR) started primarily in the military and education sector, by some estimates, more than 40 years ago. In 1982, Thomas Furness built the first working virtual flight simulator to improve flight skills. Today, we see the same drive for improvement in the fire sector as more people turn to VR for fire training.

In-depth learning

VR is a unique learning tool when utilised correctly. It lets people experience fire emergencies in a controlled environment, without the risks of live testing. This applies to both firefighters and fire wardens in different environments. It will never completely replace real world

scenario training but can be used as a stepping stone. A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that “VR fire safety training offers scalable, repeatable learning experiences without the risks and costs of real-world simulations. When well designed, VR can enhance procedural

FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71 | 81

FIRE TRAINING | VIRTUAL REALITY

skills even under simulated pressure.” While this is only a single study, more will follow, giving better knowledge on how to refine education for fire response. Firefighters will often face a wide variety of environments during their service. Whether it is a car fire, a block of flats, or, increasingly, wildfires, they need to experience as many different scenarios as possible. The quicker and more experienced they are, the more likely they are to achieve a better outcome when attending an incident. VR is unique in its ability to simulate many different environments and adapt them with the same time, effort and money. Hosting the same scenarios in a physical environment varies widely by scope and scale in real time, so using VR as a training supplement allows resources to be channelled elsewhere. At a time when resource allocation is becoming more critical and, by and large, dwindling, this seems an easy win for most fire services.

Safety and compliance

This adaptability in different scenarios will also make it easier to use this training around the globe. It can be customised to specific hazards, layouts and procedures – a key component as climate-related risks evolve, there may be increasing opportunities for international collaboration and mutual aid between fire and rescue organisations. By combining global knowledge and sharing resources we can create a world safer from fire not only at ground level but also by implementing strategies at organisational levels. Fire engineering is a profession built on purpose – protecting lives, property and communities. Reviewing how first responders typically react will help fire engineers plan accordingly. Providing a safe way to review training and even expand it to see how a building might react, will allow better procedures and planning to be put in place.

VR fire safety training: the evidence 85.2% of improvement retained

Construction workers who received BIM-based virtual reality (VR) fire safety training retained 85.2% of their improvement in fire safety awareness scores after two weeks. Source: Alexandria Engineering Journal (2026).

VR outperforms

A study comparing VR, augmented reality (AR) and video-based fire extinguisher training found that VR and AR outperformed video in practical performance, with VR achieving the highest scores. Follow-up testing also indicated better knowledge retention after three months for the immersive methods. Source: Scorgie et al., Virtual Reality (2026).

52 studies reviewed

A systematic review of VR safety training research found that VR outperformed traditional training methods for knowledge acquisition and retention. However, only 36% of the studies reviewed assessed longer-term retention. Source: Scorgie et al., Safety Science (2024).

VR training can serve as a refresher and support retention of information. Retention is particularly important when learning in such a fast-paced, highly pressured environment. The fire extinguisher training experiment in Frontiers in Psychology in 2026 compared three conditions: passive video-slide learning, basic VR with avatar instruction, and dual-mode VR adding informational panels. With 111 participants, the basic VR group made 25.2% fewer errors than the video-slide group and completed the procedure

“VR will never be a complete replacement for in-person training, operational experience or well-developed judgement” 82 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71

38.1% faster. The dual-mode group was 33.0% faster. Both VR conditions scored significantly higher overall. Higher measured stress was associated with a 2.02% increase in errors per unit, which matters when the real event is not calm.

Looking to the future

VR will never be a complete replacement for in-person training, operational experience or well-developed judgement. However, it can be a useful tool for the steady improvement of fire sector professionals. As the technology moves forward, VR’s potential goes beyond basic training. It could support familiarisation between different fire departments through regularly scheduled training in different terrains and resource management and be a way to help fire wardens keep up to date with their training. By creating realistic, repeatable learning environments, VR offers an opportunity to strengthen global fire response. ife.org.uk

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CAREER | ONBOARDING

BEYOND THE FIRST DAY Onboarding excellence is not merely administrative orientation; it is a strategic risk mitigation tool and a foundational driver of safety culture. Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi explores how organisations can transform onboarding from a “tick-the-box” exercise into a competitive advantage by aligning it with ESG principles, digital transformation and behavioural safety As a leader who has navigated the complexities of multi-billion dollar portfolios and steered organisations through transformative growth, I have consistently observed one undeniable truth: the quality of an employee’s first 90 days dictates their long-term safety performance and organisational commitment. In industries where operational environments are unforgiving, the cost of an ineffective onboarding process is measured not just in turnover rates, but in Lost Time Injuries (LTIs) and operational disruptions. Onboarding excellence is the art of integrating a professional into the organisational fabric – socially, technically and culturally. It is about moving beyond ‘Safety Induction’ to ‘Safety Integration’. This distinction is not semantic; it is transformational. The future of high-risk industries depends on our ability to cultivate a workforce that is not only technically skilled, but culturally aligned with the highest safety standards.

The four pillars of onboarding excellence

To achieve world-class standards, onboarding must be built upon four strategic pillars. Each one is interdependent; weakness in any single pillar undermines the integrity of the whole.

1. Cultural immersion from day zero Safety culture cannot be taught in a classroom; it must be felt. Excellence begins before the employee even arrives. Pre-boarding engagement – sharing the company’s safety vision, values and ESG commitments – sets the tone from the very first interaction. When a new hire steps through the door on day one, they should immediately witness leadership walking the talk. Research consistently demonstrates that organisations embedding a world-class safety culture from the outset achieve significant, measurable reductions in LTI rates. Culture is not a poster on the wall; it is the lived experience of every employee, every day.

2. Technical competency and digital readiness

In an era of rapid digital transformation, onboarding must encompass mastery of the digital safety tools and AI-driven platforms that now govern modern operations. Whether it is real-time logistics tracking, asset integrity management systems or predictive risk analytics, a new hire must be digitally fluent to operate safely. A critical challenge facing the sector is bridging the gap between ‘work-asimagined’ in procedural manuals and ‘work-as-done’ on the shop floor, the rig or the vessel. Effective onboarding must address this gap directly through simulation, scenario-based training and supervised field exposure.

3. The buddy system and mentorship

High-risk environments demand a transfer of tacit knowledge that no manual can fully capture. Pairing new hires with seasoned Safety Champions ensures that site-specific risks, operational

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CAREER | ONBOARDING

“Organisations must adopt datadriven approaches to measure onboarding effectiveness” nuances and informal safety norms are communicated effectively. This structured social integration directly reduces the newcomer’s vulnerability – the statistically elevated risk period during a new employee’s first months on site. Equally important is the cultivation of psychological safety: an environment in which every employee, regardless of seniority, feels empowered – and indeed obligated – to speak up about hazards from day one.

4. Structured feedback and continuous evaluation

Onboarding is not a one-week event; it is a 90-day strategic journey. Regular check-ins at the 30-, 60-, and 90-day marks are essential to identify gaps in understanding, address emerging concerns and reinforce correct behaviours before they calcify into unsafe habits. Organisations must adopt data-driven approaches to measure onboarding effectiveness – not merely completion rates, but the actual application of safety principles in the field. Lagging indicators tell us what went wrong; leading indicators help us prevent it.

The strategic ROI of onboarding excellence

Why should C-suite leaders invest heavily in onboarding excellence? The commercial and human case is unambiguous. The table below summarises the key return categories and their organisational impact:

A call to action for industry leaders

Onboarding excellence is a top-down mandate. As executives and board advisors, we must fundamentally reframe the onboarding budget: Not as an overhead cost to be minimised, but as a capital investment in our most valuable asset – our people. Throughout my career as a Board Advisor and Vice President across the maritime, transportation and energy sectors, I have consistently advocated for a ‘Safety Transformation’ mindset. This means challenging the status quo and asking the uncomfortable question: does our onboarding process genuinely empower our people to stop work if it is unsafe — or does it merely teach them how to fill out the forms? The answer to that question is the difference between a compliance programme and a safety culture. In the fire and security sector — where the margin for error can mean the difference between life and loss — there is no more important question to ask.

Practical recommendations for safety leaders

Commission an independent audit of your current onboarding programme against international benchmarks such as ISO 45001 and IOGP LifeSaving Rules. Mandate pre-boarding engagement: new hires should receive safety briefings, culture documentation and a

Benefit Category

Impact of Onboarding Excellence

Operational Safety

Lower LTI rates and fewer near-misses during the high-risk ‘learning curve’ period, with measurable improvement in safety performance scores.

Retention & Talent

Higher employee engagement and significantly reduced turnover costs — which can exceed 150% of an employee’s annual salary when all direct and indirect costs are accounted for.

Governance & ESG

Demonstrable commitment to social responsibility and human capital development, directly supporting ESG reporting obligations and investor expectations.

Operational Efficiency

Faster time-to-productivity, ensuring that major projects remain on schedule and within budget while avoiding the costly rework associated with early-tenure errors.

86 | FIRE MIDDLE EAST | ISSUE 71

85% Perceived impact on Operational Safety

90% Perceived impact on ESG Compliance

70% Perceived impact on Talent Retention Source: Perceived impact metrics reported by safety leaders in high-risk industry studies

named Safety Champion before their first day. Invest in digital onboarding platforms that capture completion, comprehension and field application — not just attendance. Establish a formal 30-60-90-day review structure with standardised assessment criteria and escalation pathways. Link onboarding KPIs to executive performance scorecards to ensure accountability at the highest level. The future of high-risk industries – in the Middle East and globally – depends on our collective ability to cultivate a workforce that is not only technically skilled but culturally aligned with the highest safety standards. Onboarding excellence is the bridge to that future. By architecting a process that values human connection, digital innovation and relentless safety leadership, we ensure that every professional who joins our ranks is prepared to contribute to a safe, sustainable and prosperous economy. The first day matters. But it is everything that follows that truly defines the culture we build.

Dr Ahmad Al-Ghamdi is a C-suite executive with over two decades of leadership experience across the maritime, transportation, engineering, and oil & gas sectors.

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