E-bike fires are becoming increasingly common, prompting urgent calls for action to prevent more tragedies. Concerns range from the dangers of conversion kits to devastating incidents, with fire safety authorities pushing for stricter regulations and enhanced safety standards to protect lives. Here’s a look at efforts to address this growing risk.
Plans to reduce CCTV monitoring in Shrewsbury are expected to gain approval from Shropshire Council's cabinet. Under these new measures, cameras in the town centre would remain operational, but 24/7 monitoring would be discontinued. This move is part of efforts to address a £62.5 million shortfall in the current financial year's council budget.
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has updated its guidance note to improve the safety and efficiency of handling pressurised container assemblies used in fixed firefighting systems. This revised guidance reflects the latest industry best practices and is aimed at professionals involved in the transportation, installation, maintenance, and removal of these essential safety components.
The Fire Standards Board has reached a significant milestone with the release of two new Standards, completing its initial suite. The Digital and Cyber Fire Standard and the Procurement and Commercial Fire Standard are now available on the Fire Standards Board’s website, following consultations with the fire and rescue sector and broader stakeholders. Like previous standards, these aim to drive continuous improvement and service delivery across England’s fire and rescue services (FRSs).
In late September 2024, multiple fire crews responded to a major blaze at a pedicab storage unit and workshop in Southwark, London. The fire is believed to have been triggered by the catastrophic failure of multiple lithium batteries. London Fire Brigade (LFB) received 21 calls about the fire on Union Street and deployed six fire engines and approximately 40 firefighters, with crews from Dowgate, Dockhead, Whitechapel, and nearby stations attending.
Is your business fire-safe? Fires can spread rapidly, causing severe damage to property and putting employees in danger. Adopting strong fire safety practices is essential for protecting your workplace. These Top 10 Fire Safety Tips for Businesses outline practical steps every company should follow, from performing regular fire risk assessments to ensuring staff are trained in evacuation procedures.
With upcoming bans on chemicals such as PFOS and PFOA, the firefighting foam industry is facing significant regulatory changes which will impact on one of the most basic tools in fire safety equipment, the fire extinguisher.
In the fire safety industry, rigorous training isn't just important, it is a life-saving necessity. A well-trained workforce is essential to ensure that fire protection systems are properly designed, installed, maintained, and inspected, which greatly reduces the risk of fire-related incidents. Competency through effective training is the cornerstone of the industry. Without it, even the most advanced fire safety technologies can fall short, with potentially devastating consequences.
As the EU implements stricter regulations on battery usage, it is essential for businesses in the fire and security sector to remain informed and compliant. The new EU Battery Regulation (EU 2023/1542) introduces significant changes regarding the use of lead-acid batteries in critical applications. This guide provides a detailed analysis of the regulation and its impact, enriched by expert insights and practical advice.
A sharp increase in property fires linked to DIY e-bike conversion kits has prompted urgent warnings from fire services across the UK. These kits are now considered one of the country’s fastest growing fire hazards as e-bikes continue to rise in popularity.
