Euralarm seeks to develop European database for fire-sensitive devices

This database will serve as a central resource for collecting, analysing and disseminating fire critical data, in turn aiding the development of Best Practice and regulation. It will also serve as a source of early information for alarm responders in the event of fire episodes.

The rapid adoption of renewable energy technologies has introduced new fire safety challenges for residential and commercial buildings. For their part, lithium-ion batteries pose significant risks when not properly managed, potentially leading to fire incidents that can have severe consequences.

Responding to the risks

In responding to these emerging risks, Chris Downing (director of codes and standards for fire suppression products at Johnson Controls and who’s spearheading this new initiative) explained: “The database will serve as a central resource for collecting and then disseminating critical information to local Fire and Rescue Services. The relevant data shall be made available for alarm responders such that they have crucial information at their disposal prior to arriving at an incident. They can then adapt their strategy, which assists firefighter safety, leading to reduced fire losses and better outcomes.”

Downing added: “By aggregating information from multiple sources, we aim to improve the understanding of fire risks, enhance safety standards and support the development of even more robust European regulations.”

Focus on collaboration

The  initiative will also facilitate collaboration between industry stakeholders, Fire and Rescue Services, researchers, regulators and policymakers, thereby helping to shape a safer and more resilient energy infrastructure for Europe and ensure that fire incidents can be managed in a proactive way with a reduced risks for firefighters.

The database will assist in identifying trends, mitigating risks and ensuring the safe integration of new technologies in the built environment.

Euralarm’s members make society safer and more secure through the delivery of systems and services for fire detection and extinguishing, intrusion detection, access control, video monitoring and alarm transmission.

Founded in 1970, Euralarm represents over 5,000 companies within the fire safety and security industries valued at circa 67 billion Euros. Its members are national associations and individual companies from across Europe.

*Further information is available online at www.euralarm.org