Environmental obligation is no longer peripheral to fire safety governance. Rather it’s central to all sectors. The emergence of regulatory scrutiny around perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and the wider per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family of chemicals has created a defining leadership moment for our sector.

Often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’, these substances have historically been used in certain firefighting foams due to their exceptional suppression performance. However, their persistence in soil and groundwater has triggered heightened regulatory oversight across the UK.

The transition away from PFOA is not merely a technical shift. It’s also a leadership evolution. Historically, leadership in the fire industry has been rooted in technical competence and regulatory awareness. Compliance was the benchmark. Meeting British Standards was the objective and enforcement was the motivator. That model served the industry well for decades.

However, environmental governance requires a different posture: one that’s anticipatory rather than reactive. The adaptive leader doesn’t wait for prohibition: they prepare for inevitability. They assess stock holdings of legacy foams. They commission environmental risk reviews. They consult licensed waste contractors for safe disposal routes. They engage manufacturers about fluorine-free alternatives before clients request them.

This shift from reactive compliance towards proactive environmental stewardship is now defining high-performing organisations.

Intensified scrutiny

Across the UK, the scrutiny of PFAS contamination has intensified. Environmental monitoring, groundwater sampling and site remediation discussions are increasingly intersecting with fire safety installations. Insurance providers are asking new questions. Public sector frameworks are embedding sustainability metrics. Construction governance is linking fire performance with environmental impact. In this landscape, leadership style matters.

Command and Control-type models may achieve short-term compliance, but collaborative and transparent leadership builds long-term resilience. Teams must understand why change is occurring. Engineers and technicians must feel confident explaining environmental transitions to clients. Procurement managers must balance performance, cost and sustainability with clarity.

The British Standards landscape is also evolving. Standards-focused committees are demonstrating greater integration between built environment safety and environmental responsibility. While traditional fire detection and suppression standards remain grounded in life safety performance, sustainability considerations are becoming part of strategic dialogue and future programme priorities through 2026-2027.

This reflects a broader systemic truth: fire protection can no longer operate in isolation from environmental governance.

Practical steps

The practical steps forward are both structured and measurable. Organisations should undertake comprehensive audits of foam stocks and suppression systems. They should document chemical compositions, review safety data sheets and verify disposal channels. Environmental due diligence should become embedded within internal audit processes.

Training programmes must evolve accordingly. Technicians should understand the performance differences between legacy AFFF products and newer fluorine-free alternatives. Sales teams should be equipped to articulate environmental value alongside suppression capability. Leadership should provide clarity on long-term procurement direction in order to avoid fragmented decision-making, but this isn’t solely about foam.

Environmental obligation extends into waste minimisation during servicing operations. It includes vehicle emissions strategies for mobile engineers. It incorporates digital certification to reduce paper consumption. It considers responsible sourcing of components and Environmental, Social and Governance awareness within supply chains.

Clients increasingly expect demonstrable sustainability credentials, particularly so in public sector and commercial construction frameworks. Organisations that embed environmental leadership early position themselves competitively. There’s also a reputational dimension.

The fire industry operates within communities. Contamination incidents, disposal failures or lack of environmental transparency can erode public trust on a rapid basis. Conversely, organisations that communicate openly about transition plans, disposal protocols and sustainability goals build credibility.

Leadership in this era must therefore balance four pillars: life safety, regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship and organisational integrity. These pillars are interdependent, not competing.

Visible intersection

Reducing PFOA and addressing PFAS legacy risks represents one of the most visible intersections of these pillars. Yet the opportunity extends further. By embedding environmental governance into corporate strategy, the fire industry can redefine what protection truly means.

Protection is no longer confined to flame and smoke. It encompasses soil, water and future generations. Adaptive leadership recognises this broadened definition and acts accordingly.

The question facing every organisation is simple: ‘Are we waiting to be directed or are we prepared to lead?’ As standards evolve and regulatory frameworks strengthen, the organisations that thrive will be those viewing environmental transition not as a burden, but as professional evolution.

The UK’s fire industry has consistently demonstrated innovation in response to risk. From advancements in detection technology through to improvements in suppression systems, progress has always followed awareness. Environmental obligation is simply the next chapter.

By aligning leadership style with sustainability strategy and embracing the cultural evolution required to reduce forever chemicals and adapt industry practice, we ensure that fire protection continues to protect not only life and property, but also the environment that sustains both.

Protect life. Protect property. Protect the future.

Simon Lyons MIFSM AMIFPO is National General Manager of the Independent Fire Engineering and Distributors Association (IFEDA) (www.ifeda.org)

Published by Optimal Economics Ltd and commissioned by the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA), the comprehensive report analyses six years’ worth of primary fire incident data from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) covering those incidents in England between 2018-2019 and 2023-2024 where either a fire sprinkler system or a water mist system was present.

Researchers examined 2,924 incidents in total, including 2,438 involving sprinklers (83%) and 486 involving water mist systems. The study has unearthed “significant differences” in terms of how and where the two technologies are used.

Sprinkler incidents were widely distributed across industrial premises, retail sites and high-rise residential buildings. Nearly half of non-residential sprinkler fires occurred in industrial settings such as factories, recycling centres and warehouses. In residential settings, most sprinkler activations occurred in purpose-built blocks of flats, particularly so those over ten storeys in height.

In contrast, water mist incidents were heavily concentrated in custodial environments. Prisons and young offenders’ institutions accounted for 74% of non-residential water mist fires, while 59% of all water mist incidents recorded. A rise in prison fires between 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 significantly contributed towards the recent increase in water mist cases.

Residential water mist systems were more commonly found in single-occupancy bungalows and sheltered housing, often installed as portable ‘personal protection’ units for vulnerable residents in certain local authority areas.

Fixed versus portable systems

A central finding of the report is that many water mist systems recorded in the data are not directly comparable to fixed sprinkler systems.

Sprinklers are typically permanent, building-wide systems designed to operate automatically when heat is detected. Water mist systems, however, encompass a broad range of technologies from fixed, automatic installations to portable or manually deployed hose-reel and lance systems (particularly in custodial settings).

The data set doesn’t distinguish between these system types. As a result, researchers concluded that it’s impossible to isolate comparable populations of building-wide automatic systems for meaningful analysis.

Even in those settings where water mist systems might be comparable to sprinklers, incident numbers are low. Excluding custodial fires, fewer than 100 non-residential incidents involved water mist systems over the six-year period. The report warns that such small samples increase the risk of distorted statistical results as individual incidents carry disproportionate weight.

Operational and performance reliability

The study assessed operational reliability (ie whether systems activate when required) and performance reliability (ie whether they control or extinguish a fire once activated). However, due to differences in system type, building context and limited sample sizes, the authors concluded that a robust like-for-like comparison cannot be made using the current MHCLG data set.

The report states any claims that Government fire incident data demonstrate the superior effectiveness of water mist systems over sprinklers are unsupported by the evidence and arise from comparisons between fundamentally different forms of fire suppression.

It recommends that future data collection clearly distinguishes between fixed building-wide systems, local equipment protection systems, personal protection units and manually deployed custodial devices.

Without clearer classification, the authors warn, fire safety policy and procurement decisions risk being shaped by misleading interpretations of the data.

*Download copies of the full report entitled ‘Analysis of Data on Sprinkler and Water Mist Systems’ online

HTM 05-01 should be read in conjunction with other Health Technical Memoranda in the Firecode suite, specifically Health Technical Memorandum 05-02: Firecode – Guidance in Support of Functional Provisions (Fire Safety in the Design of Healthcare Premises) and Health Technical Memorandum 05-03: Firecode – Fire Safety in the NHS – Operational Provisions.

While HTM 05-02 and HTM 05-03 provide guidance in respect of the fire precautions and protective measures appropriate for healthcare premises, HTM 05-01 focuses squarely on establishing the appropriate fire safety management system to be applied to healthcare organisations.

It recognises the unique operational context of healthcare organisations and the need for a robust system of fire safety management. The guidance and recommendations contained in HTM 05-10 (which was first published back in July 2016) are intended to support compliance with statutory requirements within a structured management framework.

Key changes

One of the most significant changes since the last edition is the inclusion of the Building Safety Act 2022 as a new piece of primary legislation governing fire and building safety. The Building Safety Act expands the statutory framework previously limited to the Building Regulations 2010 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, adding a third foundational legal pillar.

It imposes specific duties on those involved in the design and construction of higher-risk buildings as well as separate duties on those managing such buildings once they’re in occupation. It may also require healthcare organisations to appoint new statutory roles such as Accountable Persons and Principal Accountable Persons.

Where applicable, HTM 05-01 provides references or guidance on incorporating the requirements of the Building Safety Act into the management of buildings, fire safety and daily operations – particularly so during construction and refurbishment phases – while ensuring the golden thread of safety information is maintained accurately and kept updated at all times.

In this revision of HTM 05-01, the responsibilities previously associated with the Authorising Engineer (Fire) are now separated into two defined roles: the Independent Expert Advisor (Authorising Engineer) and the specialist Fire Engineer.

The Independent Expert Advisor (Authorising Engineer) role focuses on auditing fire safety management systems. Although previous Firecode guidance has assigned the auditing function to the Authorising Engineer – which required Chartered Engineer status – the nature of auditing does not typically require the engineering competencies defined by the Engineering Council for chartership. In practice, these audits are often conducted by experienced fire safety professionals who are not Chartered Engineers, with input from a chartered individual where necessary.

As such, fire safety auditing is not an engineering task and the use of the Authorising Engineer title is therefore not considered appropriate. In contrast, where detailed fire engineering solutions are needed – such as in complex building designs or fire strategy work – a specialist Fire Engineer (often chartered or incorporated depending on the complexity and risk profile of the project) is the appropriate source of technical advice.

The updated HTM 05-01 states: “This new structure matches each role to the right set of skills and competencies, making the approach more practical and proportionate. It helps healthcare organisations bring in the right expertise for both oversight and technical advice, improving how fire safety is managed overall.”

Distinct designations

The revised HTM 05-01 both formalises and clarifies four distinct designations under the Authorised Person (Fire) role (ie the Fire Safety Advisor). These include three specialisms: fire risk assessment, fire training and fire projects, as well as the separate role of Authorised Person (Fire Safety Maintenance).

While these functions were touched on in the 2023 revision of HTM 05-03 Part B, their inclusion in HTM 05-01 “provides a more structured framework” for assigning responsibilities and ensuring appropriate competencies.

In complex healthcare organisations, the role of Senior Fire Safety Advisor may also be designated. This is an experienced Fire Safety Adviser with extensive knowledge of healthcare fire safety who typically co-ordinates a team of Fire Safety Advisors. While holding similar core competencies, the Senior Fire Safety Advisor brings additional expertise and may take on some responsibilities of the Fire Safety Manager. The role exists to provide leadership and oversight within more structured fire safety management arrangements.

Fire safety policy guidance

The Department of Health fire safety policy, previously presented as Chapter 2 in the 2013 edition, is no longer included as a standalone chapter in the main text. Instead, this content has been updated, renamed and also moved to Appendix A. Fire safety policy is overseen by NHS England (or its relevant replacement body/ organisation) rather than the Department of Health.

Additionally, revised fire safety policy guidance is also set out in Chapter 5 of this edition, in turn aligning the guidance with current governance arrangements and strategic responsibilities across the National Health Service.

*Access copies of the updated HTM 05-01: Managing Healthcare Fire Safety online

BS 750 Underground Fire Hydrants. Surface Box Frames and Covers. Specification specifies areas including surface box frames and covers, ensuring they are designed, manufactured and tested to deliver reliable performance.

The British Standard is designed to provide a cnsistent technical framework for manufacturers, water companies and Fire and Rescue Services, supporting durability, compatibility and effective operation.

By setting clear specifications and performance criteria, BS 750 aims to help maintain the dependable hydrant infrastructure that’s essential for public safety and effective emergency response right across the UK.

The revised document is intended to “provide greater clarity and strengthened requirements” within the British Standard. The proposed amendment aims to improve clarity in definitions and figures in order to ensure that the measurement of the flow coefficient is clearly described, in line with the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendation, as published in September 2024.

Further, the revised document actively strengthens requirements for third party verification and certification alongside the delivery of enhanced technical specifications “designed to support greater consistency, transparency and accountability” across the industry.

Initially, the draft for public comment is being promoted to existing users of BS 750, with wider engagement across the industry set to follow. As previously stated, the consultation process encourages stakeholders to review the document and provide input by 13 April.

Anne Hayes, director of sectors and standards development at the BSI, explained: “The publication of this draft standard reflects our clear commitment to responding constructively to the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and supporting safety across the built environment.”

Hayes added: “We recognise the importance of actively addressing the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s recommendations through the standards-making process. By progressing this amendment to BS 750, we are reinforcing our role as a responsible partner in supporting public safety and strengthening the technical standards that underpin critical Fire and Rescue Service infrastructure.”

*Stakeholders are invited to review the draft British Standard and submit comments during the public consultation period by visiting https://standardsdevelopment.bsigroup.com/projects/2025-01893

PAS 9970: Parts 1 and 2

The BSI has also released draft versions of Parts 1 and 2 of PAS 9970 Fire safety in Construction for public comment, with the closing date for submissions being 18 March.

PAS 9970-1:2026 Fire Safety in Construction – Organisation and Site Fire Safety – Code of Practice applies to construction work conducted on construction sites that are scheduled to last longer than 30 working days and employ more than 20 people working simultaneously at any point or are otherwise scheduled to exceed 500 working days in total.

This document provides recommendations and guidance on strategic fire safety practices for construction contractors. That includes the development and implementation of proportionate fire safety management systems designed to suitably and sufficiently manage organisational and site-specific fire safety risks.

The PAS doesn’t apply to construction sites involving special hazards that present a high risk to life (eg large-scale petrochemical, nuclear or high-explosive environments). The BSI has noted that such environments might require additional or alternative fire safety precautions beyond those covered in this document.

PAS 9970-2:2026 Fire Safety in Construction – Design and Installation of Temporary Fire Alarm Systems – Specification specifies requirements and performance criteria for life-critical fire detection and fire alarm system products intended for deployment in temporary installations during construction work.

This particular part of PAS 9970 is intended for use by manufacturers, suppliers and system specifiers and might also be of interest to installers and construction site managers responsible for fire safety.

It’s important to note that this part of PAS 9970 doesn’t cover fire detection and fire alarm systems for permanent installations and the applicability of features for a particular installation.

*Access the draft documents at PAS 9970-1:2026 Fire Safety in Construction – OrganiSation and Site Fire Safety – Code of Practice and PAS 9970-2:2026 Fire Safety in Construction – Design and Installation of Temporary Fire Alarm Systems – Specification

London witnessed record numbers of e-bike and e-scooter fires last year, with more than 200 fires attended by firefighters across the capital. The fires ranged in their severity with the most serious episodes resulting in deaths, injury and destructive damage to homes. Last year, two people sadly lost their lives as a result of e-bike fires, taking the total number of fatalities in London arising from this type of incident to five since 2023.  

These stark figures highlight that urgent action is still needed to help prevent these fires and further tragedies. In total, London firefighters attended 206 e-bike and e-scooter fires in 2025 at an average of 17 fires per month. Around 83% of these fires involved an e-bike.

The London Fire Brigade’s investigations shows that lithium-ion battery failure, conversion kits and chargers are often the cause of these fires. Items purchased online (whether bought new or second-hand), and which don’t meet UK safety standards, are particularly prone to going up in flames.

Lithium-ion batteries that power e-bikes and e-scooters can fail for a number of reasons They may be poorly built, counterfeit, become damaged, overcharged or otherwise used with an incorrect charger.

Product Regulation and Metrology Act  

In a bid to tackle this growing problem, the Government introduced the Product Regulation and Metrology Act, which received Royal Assent last summer. In December, London Fire Brigade Deputy Commissioner Spencer Sutcliff wrote to Kate Dearden (Minister for Employment Rights and Consumer Protection) urging the Government to bring forward its consultation for the secondary legislation of the Act as soon as possible.    

Following on from that letter, Spencer Sutcliff (Deputy Commissioner and operational director for prevention, protection and policy) observed: “On average, firefighters are currently attending an e-bike or e-scooter fire every other day. This year, we’ve already seen several fires involving lithium-ion batteries. These fires can be explosive and have devastating consequences.”

Sutcliff continued: “We’ve been calling for regulation to improve product safety and are thankful for the work already done by the Government to help tackle this issue. We look forward to working with the Government on its consultation for secondary legislation, when it’s introduced, to help tackle this issue head-on. We hope this is done as soon as possible in order to reduce the number of customers being exposed to dangerous products available for purchase online, and ultimately drive down the number of fires.”

Tragically, each of the five people who’ve died as a result of e-bike fires in London didn’t own the e-bike involved. This demonstrates the devastating effect these fires can have on those who live with an e-bike or e-scooter user, as well as to their homes and livelihoods.

#ChargeSafe campaign

The London Fire Brigade’s #ChargeSafe campaign, launched back in 2023, has increased Londoners’ awareness of the risks associated with owning a poorly built e-bike or e-scooter lithium-ion battery. More work is required to educate on the risks, notably so among gig economy riders who use e-bikes – often modified with conversion kits that may not meet safety standards – in order to travel around for work. On that note, the Brigade is continuing its calls for the likes of Uber Eats, Just Eat and Deliveroo to do more to share awareness about the risks directly with their riders.  

Other organisations and groups (such as local authorities, housing associations, landlords and universities and colleges) are also urged to help spread awareness. Firefighters are available to support this work. Where possible, organisations and groups encouraged to take practical steps to help reduce the risk, including the provision of safe places for storage or appropriate charging facilities.

Unique safety challenges  

Deputy Commissioner Sutcliff continued: “We understand the importance of green and sustainable modes of transport and recognise the positive impact of e-bikes and e-scooters. However, poorly built, non-compliant or damaged lithium batteries in these products, as well as the use of mismatched batteries and chargers, present unique fire safety challenges.”

Sutcliff concluded: “It’s clear from the number of fires we’re seeing that not everyone is aware of the very real risks that exist. We’ve been running our #ChargeSafe awareness campaign for nearly three years, but the latest data shows this work is becoming more important than ever. We need the continued support of the Government, partners and other relevant organisations to ensure the safety advice is reaching as many people as possible and that dangerous products are no longer readily available to purchase online.”

Jill Nicholls, director of competence and compliance at the BESA, has voiced the opinion that there was an “uncomfortable undertone” undermining the activities and celebrations around this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, which ran from 9-15 February.

“Judging by what we’ve seen from the Government so far,” observed Nicholls, “it looks like 2026 will be a year when the reputation of apprenticeships could go either way. It’s on a knife edge.”

Nicholls lamented that what’s usually a week to champion collaboration between employers, Government, training providers and assessment organisations had become an anxious debate about “streamlining” and “dumbing down” of quality.

“After years of building reputation, quality and take-up following the Richards Review, it’s frustrating to see this go into reverse, just when the construction and built environment sectors need quality and rigour more than ever,” explained Nicholls. “The need to ensure everyone working on buildings is professionally competent isn’t optional. It’s a necessity if we are going to prevent another Grenfell.”

Review of standards

The Government has announced a review of all 700 apprenticeship standards currently available with a view towards “streamlining” the system and removing those with low take-up even though many of those are in critical specialist technical professions.

Many employers fear that Government ministers intend to reduce choice by simply removing programmes that are not directly linked to the current Government’s priorities.

Others have suggested the exercise is aimed at freeing-up funding for new initiatives including foundation apprenticeships and short courses called ‘apprenticeship units’ through the reformed growth and skills levy which starts in April. This is intended to give employers more choice over how they spend their levy pots in line with a commitment made in the Labour Party’s General Election manifesto.

Not joined up

“The Government is not joined up on this issue,” suggested Nicholls, “with some departments arguing for streamlining to save money, while the Building Safety Regulator is calling for competence, compliance with the Building Safety Act and making sure routes to competence are clearly defined and mandated.”

According to Nicholls, using a ‘sampling system’ to speed up assessment of an apprentice’s skills, knowledge, experience and behaviour would not stand up to legal examination in court if an employer is challenged to prove their employee was fully competent.

A coalition of construction bodies (including BESA) recently launched a National Apprenticeship Week campaign (entitled #saveourapprenticeship) to persuade the Government to rethink its approach and is also working with the Skills England Construction Task Force to find practical solutions to the current stalemate. The campaign is headed by Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation, on behalf of all construction-related sectors.

“It’s counterintuitive for a Government that claims to be focused on improving professional standards across construction in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster to be compromising the quality of this crucial route to competence,” commented Nicholls. “Everyone in the competence supply chain from Skills England to training providers to employers has a role to play in ensuring the competence of workforces in line with clear and legal responsibilities enforceable under the Building Safety Act.”

Funding pledge

In last November’s Autumn Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged an additional £725 million to create 50,000 more apprenticeships during the course of this Parliament, but £140 million of that is being allocated to Mayors to help them connect NEETs (not in education, employment or training) to local employers as part of a wider review of educational priorities.

A statement from the Department for Work and Pensions said: “We are committed to creating an apprenticeship system that addresses the nation’s skills challenges head on and are simplifying it to give businesses the flexibility to develop the skills they need.”

The statement continued: “We have been working intensively with businesses on the next stages of reform and will consider their feedback before making any decisions about changes to funding apprenticeship standards.”

UK’s largest showcase

Over 300 exhibitors are participating at the NEC. Leading brands including Apollo, Checkmate Fire, LFS, Sentry Doors, Strongdor and many more will be showcasing their latest R&D projects, organising product and solution launches and delivering live demonstrations.

A number of key associations and industry bodies are supporting The Fire Safety Event and their representatives will be on hand to offer guidance and expert advice to visitors. BAFE, FireQual, the Fire and Security Association, the Fire Industry Association, Fire Aware, the Fire Protection Association, the Institution of Fire Engineers and the Smoke Control Association are all in attendance throughout the three days.

CPD-accredited education

Education is at the very heart of The Fire Safety Event. Boasting industry-led theatres and offering 45-plus hours of free-to-attend Continuing Professional Development-led content, this is the perfect opportunity for visitors to gain direct insight on fire safety trends and Best Practice techniques.

Fire Safety Leaders Summit (sponsored by RiskBase)

Featuring a line-up of leading industry experts delivering insight and expertise on Best Practice, regulatory updates and topical subjects presently impacting the fire safety sector.

Passive Fire Conference (run in partnership with the ASFP)

Learn more about passive fire protection topics and various fire safety measures in the built environment. Hear from the experts and gain essential advice related to specification, installation, inspection and maintenance regimes.

Compliance Theatre (sponsored by UL Solutions)

This theatre will host essential sessions focused on legislation, standards and regulatory updates, in turn helping fire safety professionals to remain abreast of the compliance landscape. Featuring expert-led discussions and practical guidance, the Compliance Theatre offers vital insights for businesses striving to maintain Best Practice and meet evolving client expectations.

Innovation Theatre (sponsored by Hochiki)

Spotlighting the latest advancements, emerging technologies and forward-thinking solutions shaping the future of fire safety. Through expert-led sessions, this theatre offers attendees a look ahead at the new innovations driving progress and improving safety outcomes across the industry.

FIA Guidance Theatre

The Fire Industry Association Guidance Theatre at The Fire Safety Event offers expert insights and practical advice on fire safety regulation and Best Practice. Attendees can learn from industry leaders, remain updated on compliance standards and discover innovative solutions designed to enhance fire protection strategies. A must-visit for safety professionals seeking valuable knowledge.

Show features

UKTC Fire Test Experience Hub

UKTC is going to showcase the operations of a fire testing laboratory with live on-site commentary of passive fire protection product tests. The UKTC sessions will allow visitors to experience fire tests on a 2.5 x 1.5 metre screen with the opportunity to ask questions of UKTC’s own experts and also take part in thought-provoking debates.

WorldSkills UK

The Fire Safety Event is delighted to partner with Worldskills UK and, as a result, realise a fully immersive and interactive zone dedicated to the security engineers of tomorrow. Hosting the national qualifiers on-site, this will raise the standard for apprentices to excel in their careers.

Women in Fire Safety Network

The Fire Safety Event is also focused on a commitment to empower and celebrate women operating in the fire safety management domain. Meet Women Talking Fire’s representatives and join in with the networking drinks at the end of Day One.

Next Gen Network

The Fire Safety Event welcomes people of all ages who are passionate about championing the next generation of talent. The Next Gen Network represents a genuine movement committed to driving change within an ageing workforce. There will be specially curated sessions designed for the next generation of industry talent.

After a day filled with enriching discussions and valuable insights, there’s a chance to unwind and connect by visiting the Networking Café for complimentary networking drinks at the end of Day One.

Specify and Build: £10,000 prize giveaway

Join the Specify and Build visitor trail and make exploring the show even more exciting. Pick up your trail booklet, visit participating exhibitor stands, collect stamps and you could go on to win £10,000. It’s a fun and interactive way in which to discover new products and meet exhibitors.

The Fire Industry Newcomer of the Year competition

For the first time, the Fire Industry Association is hosting a live, hands-on challenge for trainees, apprentices and early career technicians working in the fire detection and alarm systems domain. Competitors will work on a non-addressable fire alarm system to identify faults and non-compliances, apply safe working practices, test the system correctly and document their work in the same way as if they were involved in a real-world maintenance visit.

Networking opportunities

Connect with peers at the Networking Café (sponsored by the Fire Industry Association) and/or end the day with the ever-popular networking drinks. Meet colleagues and friends for a glass of wine, beer or juice. There will be live music as well. Days One and Two from 4.00 pm-6.00 pm.

Platinum Club

Join senior fire safety leaders and influential professionals for an elevated show experience crafted exclusively for Platinum VIP Club members. As a Platinum VIP Club member, you’ll gain access to premium networking spaces, curated content and exclusive hospitality benefits as well as personalised experiences that help you connect with the right people, discover the latest innovations on a faster basis and maximise every moment spent at the show.

EZNA

A free-of-charge Artificial Intelligence concierge service connects you with the right people at the right time. Using smart matching based on your role and interests, it schedules high-value one-to-one meetings so that you can build meaningful connections, save time and derive even more value from your overall experience at The Fire Safety Event.

Show App

The Safety and Security Series Show App is your essential event companion, giving you instant access to seminars, exhibitor listings, floorplans, speaker details and live updates. Plan your visit, build your schedule and find all of the information you need before, during and after attending.

The Fire Safety Event is uniquely co-located with The Security Event, The Health and Safety Event, The Workplace Event and the National Cyber Security Show, which together form the Safety and Security Series. With only one registration, delegates enjoy access to all of these first-class shows.

There’s free on-site parking at the NEC, reinforcing the venue’s position as the most accessible location for fire and security sector events. With a train station, the airport and direct access to the M42 motorway, the NEC provides unmatched convenience for all attendees.

*For more information visit www.firesafetyevent.com

Opening hours for The Fire Safety Event 2026 at the NEC

*Tuesday 28 April 2026: 10.00 am-4.30 pm 

*Wednesday 29 April 2026: 10.00 am-4.30 pm 

*Thursday 30 April 2026: 10.00 am-3.30 pm

Running under the headline theme of ‘Connected. Protected. Prepared: Technology at the Fire Safety Frontier’, conference is designed to focus on how innovation, governance and informed decision-making are actively shaping the future of healthcare fire safety.

Programme highlights include a courtroom-based exploration of National Health Service fire safety accountability, role-specific sessions, sponsor-led insight panels and senior leadership reflections.

Across three days, the programme offers a rich mix of insight, challenge and practical learning, including expert-led sessions on fire safety strategy, compliance, assurance and accountability, innovative technology insights from sponsors and industry partners alike and interactive panel discussions addressing real-world challenges. Engaging and immersive session formats are purpose-designed to bring learning to life.

Speaker line-up

Speakers include Cheryl Couling (principal consultant at the Fire Safety Partnership), Graham Gray (fire safety manager at the University of Sussex), Louise Mansfield (legal director at Bevan Brittan), Professor Steve Gwynne (evacuation and pedestrian dynamics specialist at the University of Greenwich) and Tony Hanley (founder and managing director of FirePro UK).

Core topics covered include the Building Safety Act 2022, mitigating lithium-ion battery fires, hospital evacuation strategies, connected fire safety ecosystems, digital platforms for managing fire risk and designing, testing and maintaining fire doors in the healthcare environment. 

Professional development

Day Three is dedicated to professional development and features four Continuing Professional Development (CPD)-accredited sessions for delegates. These sessions provide focused opportunities to:

*strengthen technical knowledge and competence

*reflect on current practice and emerging expectations

*support ongoing professional accreditation and development

*take practical learning back to the host organisation

This dedicated CPD focus ensures delegates leave not only informed and inspired, but also better equipped to demonstrate competence, assurance and continuous improvement in their roles.

*View the full conference programme and register attendance by accessing https://ascentevents.co.uk/nahfo-conference-exhibition/conference/

**Whether you are looking to enhance your professional development, understand emerging risks, or connect with peers across the sector, the NAHFO Annual Conference and Exhibition remains the must-attend event for healthcare fire safety professionals

The long-running investigation has resulted in the successful prosecution of Qudhrat CIC (Company No 08405169), Mariam Khan and New Enterprise Limited (Company No 03520273) for offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

This prosecution followed a multi-agency inspection of premises at 4-12 Coventry Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5SZ, which took place on 13 May 2021. During the inspection, a number of serious fire safety failings were identified.

The investigation found that these breaches constituted offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. As a result, the defendants later pleaded guilty to a total of 13 fire safety offences for which they were sentenced on 12 February.

“Disaster waiting to happen”

During sentencing at Warwick Crown Court, Recorder Green KC stated: “This was a fire safety disaster waiting to happen.” He then handed down the following sentences:

Mariam Khan 

Mariam Khan received a ten‑month custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months. She was also ordered to undertake 25 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and complete 50 hours of unpaid work.

Qudhrat CIC 

Qudhrat CIC received a fine of £120,000 and was also ordered to pay costs of £15,059.59.

New Enterprise Ltd 

New Enterprise Ltd received a fine of £56,000 and was ordered to pay costs of £11,462.09.

This case demonstrates Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to holding individuals and organisations accountable when they endanger lives by failing to comply with fire safety legislation. The Fire and Rescue Service will continue to pursue those who disregard their legal responsibilities to the fullest extent of the law.

Clear reminder  

Ben Brook, chief fire officer at the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, commented: “I commend the hard work and dedication of our staff in fulfilling our regulatory duties to protect the people of Warwickshire. I would also like to thank our partner agencies for their support throughout the investigation. I hope this case serves as a clear reminder to all ‘Responsible Persons’ that compliance with fire safety legislation is a legal obligation.”

Councillor Dale Bridgewater, portfolio holder for Fire and Rescue and community safety at Warwickshire County Council, observed: “This case demonstrates Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to holding individuals and organisations accountable when they fail to comply with fire safety legislation and endanger lives.”

Bridgewater concluded: “The efforts from all of the involved agencies demonstrate our commitment to keeping Warwickshire safe.”

The improved position reflects sustained and constructive engagement by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), alongside valuable interventions from local MPs and representative bodies who helped champion the sector’s needs.

The NFCC understands that the additional funding will be targeted towards those Fire and Rescue Services most at risk, where funding inequities have been greatest. While this marks a positive step forward and shows the Government is listening, the NFCC firmly believes that long‑term investment remains essential to ensure Fire and Rescue Services can meet what are now increasingly complex risks as well as future demands.

The settlement confirms several important reforms for Fire and Rescue Services, including greater council tax flexibility (standalone Fire and Rescue Authorities will be able to increase council tax precepts by up to £5 per year for a Band D property) and a strengthened funding floor (Fire and Rescue Authorities applying the full £5 rise will receive at least an uplift in core spending power, thereby providing improved protection against cost pressures).

The uplift in the funding floor follows extensive advocacy by the NFCC, local parliamentarians and representative bodies who highlighted the operational pressures on Fire and Rescue Services. Earlier proposals risked real‑terms reductions following a decade of cuts, but collective engagement has helped to secure a more equitable outcome.

While the provisional settlement prior to Christmas introduced inflation‑level increases, the NFCC continued to press for additional headroom in order to reflect inflation and rising operational costs.

Clear improvement

NFCC chair Phil Garrigan noted: “We welcome the Government’s decision to strengthen the funding floor with the provision of an additional £15 million. This is a clear improvement on the provisional position and a reflection of sustained and constructive engagement between the NFCC, Government, local MPs and representative bodies.”

Garrigan continued: “After a decade of cuts, Fire and Rescue Services were facing further real‑terms reductions. The reforms announced before Christmas were welcomed, but we were clear they did not go far enough in recognising unavoidable pressures and rising demand. The Government has listened. This revised settlement offers greater stability and capacity to protect the public.”

Further, Garrigan observed: “This is an important step forward, but long‑term underinvestment – particularly so the loss of almost £1 billion in capital funding, a significant reduction in firefighter numbers and the previous disinvestment in the central co-ordination of the sector – must now be addressed. Securing sustainable investment for the future is the next priority.”

Cumulative impact

The NFCC has consistently highlighted the cumulative impact of underinvestment and the risks associated with further cuts. Earlier proposals linked to the Fair Funding Review 2.0 raised concerns about an over‑reliance on population growth, which risked disadvantaging areas with slower population change, but higher risk profiles – including chemical sites, high‑rise buildings and areas of deprivation, particularly in the North East.

NFCC modelling indicated potential real‑terms cuts of up to £102 million under initial proposals. Following interventions led by fire chiefs and supported by parliamentary representatives, the Government increased the funding floor by 2.2% in December. The NFCC continued to advocate for a settlement that fully reflected inflation and other pressures, duly leading to confirmation from the Government of an increased uplift met with additional funding.

Given that the uplift is dependent on Fire and Rescue Authorities adopting the full £5 council tax flexibility, the NFCC is encouraging them to make full use of this option. For county council‑run Fire and Rescue Services, the financial arrangements are more complex and Fire and Rescue Services in those areas rely on local decisions to ensure a similar level of protection. The NFCC is seeking support from all those governing Fire and Rescue Authorities to make local decisions that support ongoing resilience.

Government data

Government data shows that Fire and Rescue Services in England responded to 642,170 incidents in the year to September 2025. That’s a 28% rise over the past decade, while wholetime firefighter numbers have fallen by 25% since 2008 (around 11,000 posts). At the same time, Fire and Rescue Services are managing increasingly complex challenges linked to climate change, new energy technologies and an expanded civil resilience role.

Fire chiefs remain committed to meeting these challenges, appreciating the positive intervention by Government, but also recognising that ageing estates, outdated infrastructure and historic financial pressures continue to limit progress.

The NFCC is urging the Government to build on this settlement with a long‑term investment strategy that ensures Fire and Rescue Services are properly equipped to keep communities safe and resilient, not only now, but also in the years ahead.