One of the largest events of its kind, ADIPEC 2022 (31 October – 3 November, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates)will host more than 150,000 energy professionals and visitors worldwide.

With over 140,000 gross square metres of exhibition space across sixteen halls, there will be plenty to see, especially for any companies seeking reliable, high-quality, proven gas detection and monitoring technologies. From Booth 9413 in Hall 9, Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection will shine the spotlight on several proven products that enhance safety and bring even more capabilities to the oil and gas sector.

Visitors to the booth will also discover how Teledyne will meet the gas detection demands of the giant Hail and Ghasha sour gas project that is currently in development off the UAE coastline.

Among the class-leading products on display from Teledyne GFD will be the GD1 hydrogen sulphide (H2S) laser detector, which features a unique, customisable laser diode that, rather than emitting a conventional straight beam of light, travels as a cone from one point to another. In other words, the beam expands after transmission and is almost a metre in diameter when it reaches the receiver. As a result, the beam can penetrate harsh environments that competitor solutions may find difficult. The GD1 also performs real-time auto-calibration and auto-proof testing, and provides a very high sampling or detection rate i.e., 8000 times/sec. Well over 800 units have been deployed in the field since 2011.

Also in the spotlight will be the GD10P infrared gas detector with full firmware upgrade, enhancing the product’s performance in high demand mode SIL2 approved applications. In comparison with other infrared gas detectors, the new firmware adds further to GD10P’s differentiating factors, which include a solid-state infrared source and a 15-year warranty.
Moreover, despite the shortages experienced in the global semiconductor industry, we have been able to ensure business continuity for most of our products. As such we demonstrate our operational excellence and continue to respond quickly to almost any need. With GD10P, we prove our product leadership, offering to our partners leading-edge products and services. In fact, we have recently sold our 100,000th.

Elsewhere on the booth, ADIPEC visitors will find the GD10PE infrared point gas detector, which is ideal when users need fast, reliable detection of low gas concentrations. With a measuring range of 0-20% LEL, the GD10PE is five times more sensitive than standard point detectors.

Another exciting innovation launching at the show is Spyglass™, a brand-new range of flame detectors offering integrated high-definition CCTV video that facilitates the clear, rapid imaging of fire and people at unprecedented distances. When connected to a DVR/NVR, the rescue team becomes aware of the exact situation before entering the hazardous area. A range of high-capability models is available offering a selection of different detectors. Visitors should head for the booth to find out more.

Teledyne’s product portfolio houses a variety of detection technologies, including fixed, portable and wireless, as well as area monitors. Sometimes a mix of solutions can improve reliability and availability, as evidenced in the company’s proposal for the enormous Hail and Ghasha sour gas development, which is set to go live in 2024.

The main contractor tasked Teledyne GFD to ensure reliable wireless gas detection with 24-7 availability. As a result, the company proposed fixed gas detectors connected via a wireless mesh as a primary means of detecting LEL explosive gases and hydrogen sulphide gases. The solution also includes a second line of defence, utilising a mesh network of Teledyne’s field proven BM25 wireless area monitors. Implementation commenced in June 2021, with the wireless mesh network featuring independent supervision from field-mounted controllers and remote displays.

The BM25 will be on display at the booth, alongside other Teledyne industrial gas and flame detectors – both fixed and portable, including the wireless CXT. Personal gas monitors on view will include the PS200, PS500 and Protégé ZM, while a ‘Solution Wall’ will showcase DG MOS detector with Telecapteur asset management software, but also the high temperature SIL 2 DF flame detector.

Any company seeking the latest detection and monitoring technologies to keep oil and gas operations running safely, efficiently, and profitably, should look no further than the innovative solutions available from Teledyne GFD. ADIPEC visitors are welcome to discuss their specific challenges and requirements for which we will have an experienced and knowledgeable team on the booth.

At Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection, we focus on delivering superior customer value which means operational excellence and product leadership.

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For more information, please contact:
Teledyne Oldham Simtronics SAS
ZI Est, Rue Orfila
CS 20417
62027 Arras cedex
France
Tel:  +33 3 21 60 80 35
Email: nathalie.dewisme@teledyne.com
Web: www.TeledyneGFD.com

Portable smoke detectors could be the difference between life and death on your summer vacation this year.

ST. LOUIS — Let’s be honest, how many people check their hotel rooms, or Airbnb’s for smoke detectors when they walk in?

Firefighters told 5 On Your Side, not nearly enough.

Portable smoke detectors could be the difference between life and death on your summer vacation this year.

We spoke with Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

“There are about 2,600 Americans who die in home fires every year and the majority of the time, there is not a working smoke alarm in the house,” he said.

Smoke detectors save lives, and they’re not always found – or functioning – in your vacation spot.

“I think it’s important to travel with one, especially if you’re going to the ever-popular Airbnb’s,” said Dennis Jenkerson, chief of the St. Louis Fire Department.

Siarnicki agrees.

“The codes and standards across the globe are different and so people end up going to facilities that may not have working smoke alarms or a sprinkler system,” he said.

Check for working smoke detectors in your home and when you’re away.
The goal is to keep your family safe and do the same for our first responders.

Fire response calls are spiking in St. Louis and we’re told firefighters are trying to keep up with what’s turning out to be a very busy summer season.

“Because of the hot spell we’re having, we’re seeing a few more electrical fires. They’re not exactly electrical fires but their electrical overloads,” Chief Jenkerson said. “We see quite a few calls with power strips… everybody is plugging in the extra fans and air conditioners and they’re not made to keep up with that much electrical draw. So, they start melting down and we have fires going off on that.”

The department is getting more calls for indoor cooking fires as well.

Both Chief Jenkerson and Ron Siarnicki said, with kids out of school and spending time staying with close friends and family, parents should consider packing a portable detector with their child for sleepovers.

“You know, it’s a tough question for a parent to ask a neighbor, ‘Hey, do you have a working smoke alarm in your house?’ But the value of your child and the importance of your child’s safety is worth asking that question,” Siarnicki said.

If you do pack a portable smoke detector for a stay away, here are some tips:

• Take the battery out before you pack it. You don’t want the smoke detector to go off in your luggage, especially at the airport.
• Store the smoke detector inside a plastic bag when it’s in your luggage. That way, you can prevent dust, liquids and other things from getting on the detector.

When you’re ready to set up your portable smoke detector, remember these tips:

• The device is most likely battery operated. Have batteries available.
• You want to put the detector at the highest place in the room.
• Pack some strong tape or hanging strips to put the device on a wall or ceiling of your hotel or Airbnb for that extra level of protection.
• You can place a portable smoke detector on top of a tall dresser or cabinet if you’re unable to get it on the ceiling.

Process and safety engineers who need a full-featured fire and gas system with built-in cloud-ready capabilities will find the advanced, next-gen HazardWatch FX-12 fire and gas system from MSA Safety delivers peace-of-mind and security when it comes to reliable plant safety monitoring.

The new HazardWatch FX-12 fire and gas system combines the proven expertise of the industry’s leaders in safety and automation. Developed with MSA’s detection and systems integration expertise, as well as the process control/automation proficiency of Rockwell Automation, the HazardWatch FX-12 system is a powerful and flexible total safety solution designed to protect people, equipment, facilities and nearby communities.

Representing the next generation in highly intelligent monitoring solutions, the HazardWatch FX-12 system is designed to help process and plant engineers reduce hazard vulnerability while meeting the world’s most demanding safety standards. Designed for use in hazardous industries, the HazardWatch FX-12 system isSource: MSA Safety ideal for oil/gas production and tanker loading/unloading, petrochemical refining and storage, pipelines and gas compressor stations, LNG facilities, CNG and hydrogen production and vehicle terminals, electric power generation, aircraft maintenance facilities, aerospace launch sites, automotive and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

The HazardWatch FX-12 system is designed with Rockwell Automation’s industry proven Allen-Bradley ControlLogix programmable logic controller (PLC) technology and MSA’s advanced gas and flame detection field devices. Allen-Bradley DLR-enabled communication protocols allow secure integration with other Rockwell products. Offering intelligence, flexibility and reliability, the system’s controller hardware configuration and software have been tested by Factory Mutual (FM) to verify NFPA 72 (2013) compliance.

A complete solution in a single system, the HazardWatch FX-12 system includes: a stand-alone local fire and gas alarm panel with touch screen operator interface; a redundant power supply to support the fire and gas system per NFPA 72; easy integration with third party auxiliary devices such as horns, beacons and fire suppression systems; and FM-approved EtherNet/IP system communications to distributed control or emergency shutdown systems, with optional Modbus.

The HazardWatch FX-12 can accommodate up to 12 field devices per alarm panel, with the capability to network up to 12 panels. The panel is wall mounted in a NEMA 12 rated enclosure. User connections are made at a rail mounted “swing link” with terminal blocks organized by input/output type. The PLC processor and the touchscreen are fitted with non-volatile memory.

Highly versatile to support the full range of fire, flame and gas detection needs, the HazardWatch FX-12 is compatible with the industry’s leading flame and gas sensing technologies from MSA. The flame detector models available include the General Monitors Multi-Spectral Infrared (MSIR) FL4000H, the UV/IR Optical FL500 and others.

For combustible or toxic gas and oxygen deficiency monitoring, the HazardWatch FX-12 supports the Ultima X5000 and General Monitors S5000 gas detectors. In addition, for tank or pipe leak monitoring, the Observer ultrasonic gas leak detector is available, and for plant or area perimeter monitoring the IR5500 or Senscient ELDS open path gas detectors are supported.

For safety monitoring on-site or in the cloud, the HazardWatch FX-12’s optional FieldServer Gateway supports sharing critical operational data 24/7 via BACnet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, SNMP and a host of other protocols. MSA’s remote monitoring and notification solutions help support fire alarm panels and the HazardWatch FX-12 fire and gas system by notifying the SCADA system of events in the field.

Dräger, an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology, has launched the Dräger BG ProAir, a closed-circuit breathing apparatus with innovative features to protect firefighters attending long-duration deployments such as those in tall buildings, complex structures, basements and tunnels.

The BG ProAir’s positive pressure breathing closed circuit prevents toxic substances from entering the breathing system. Both inhalation and exhalation are optimised by cooling and enriching the air with oxygen before inhaling, and CO2 being absorbed when exhaling. An even distribution of the breathing apparatus’ weight enhances comfort and ergonomics, especially important during extended missions.

Oxygen is supplied according to the wearer’s personal workload, allowing more than 4 hours duration at low breathing rates, and the new cooling concept also makes breathing easier and more natural. This allows the firefighter to manage the incident at a lower work rate.

It is further enhanced by smart onboard electronics, which include a low-pressure sensor. The integrated low pressure sensor warns when there is a lack of oxygen to ensure safe breathing. The sensor also provides a low pressure leak test of the breathing system.

The BG ProAir’s housing features highly visible reflectors and a buddy light system that alerts other firefighters to their team members’ vital information, such as cylinder pressure, and operating time.

With a high contrast, full-colour display, user data is plainly visible even in the most difficult environments such as darkness, bright sunlight or smoke. An integrated Bluetooth® module provides a short range connection to work with external devices such as gas detectors as well as a PC connection to download data and perform configuration.

The BG ProAir’s integrated data telemetry and RFID assists the user in multiple scenarios such as entry control management and absorber status tracking. In addition to time calculations such as time to whistle, Dräger have also integrated recognised features like PASS, ADSU and temperature readings.

With a fully sealed housing, the BG ProAir has been approved to the highest standards for heat, flame, and chemical resistance. For additional safety, it also comes with an optional buddy system, which enables the user to safely share oxygen with those in need during rescue situations.

The new apparatus is easy to assemble, disassemble and clean – vital for Fire Services that are now further prioritising thorough and consistent cleaning processes to deal with contaminants.

Liz Millward, Marketing Manager at Dräger Safety UK, says the BG ProAir is the culmination of proven manufacturing and design experience: “Dräger’s BG ProAir is evidence of our commitment to continual improvement. It delivers new functionality that has the potential to save lives and will improve wearer comfort, especially important when attending the most challenging, longer-duration incidents.’’

Chemical and building regulations are designed to ensure that exposure to materials within residential, commercial and industrial buildings are safe. However, there are currently no requirements to consider how the safety of those materials might change in the event of a fire – i.e. there are no requirements to measure and quantify the toxic fire effluents produced by burning materials.

There are no restrictions on the use of products capable of emitting lethal quantities of toxic effluents during a fire. Compared with natural materials (wood, wool, cotton, leather, etc.), widely used synthetic polymers (derived from oil) burn more quickly, have faster flame spread, generate more heat and produce not only higher numbers of hazardous gases and particulates, but also much higher concentrations of toxic chemicals.

Firefighters are therefore at an increased risk of exposure to toxic fire effluents and subsequently at an increased risk of suffering adverse health outcomes.

Firefighters’ exposure to toxic fire effluents will depend on:

• Fire Scenario (fire conditions)
• Fuel (materials involved in the fire)
• Specific toxicants released during and post fire
• Contamination from fire debris/residues
• Type, frequency and duration of fires attended
• The tactics employed at the incident
• The extinguishing medium used
• Use of Personal Protection Equipment
• Hygiene facilities and practices
• Time between contamination and the use of hygiene facilities and practices

Contaminants, Toxicity and Exposure Pathways

Harm to health depends on the toxicity of the contaminant, but also on the exposure pathways via which an individual is exposed to the contaminant, and the dose (amount) of the contaminant an individual is exposed to (Duffus & Worth, 2006).

Fires produce a cocktail of toxic, irritant and carcinogenic chemicals – the composition of which varies depending on the specific materials burning and the fire conditions.

They can be released in the form of particulates which will include aerosols, dusts, fibres, smoke and fumes or gases and vapours.

Some of these fire effluents (e.g. carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide and acid gases) have immediate adverse effects on health after only a single or short exposure (e.g. asphyxiation).

This is known as acute toxicity.

However, most other fire effluents (e.g. volatile organic compounds, or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) have much longer-term adverse effects on health, causing conditions which are more complex and can develop more slowly e.g. cancer, cardiovascular (related to the circulatory system which comprises the heart and blood vessels) and neurological (nervous system) diseases. This is known as chronic toxicity. Repeated exposure to even very small amounts of chronic toxicants over time increases the likelihood of developing long-term health conditions.

Acute and chronic toxicants can be then further classified according to the specific types of adverse effects they have on health. These classifications are referenced throughout this guide, and include:

• Carcinogens; substances which cause cancer (e.g. benzene, PAHs etc.).
• Teratogens; substances that can harm the foetus if exposure occurs during pregnancy (e.g. lead compounds, ethylene oxide, formamide etc.).
• Sensitisers; substances which result in an allergic type hypersensitivity reaction (e.g. of skin or lungs) (e.g. chromium, formaldehyde, isocyanates etc.).
• Irritants; substances which react in contact with moisture on/within the body and cause an inflammatory response (e.g. hydrogen chloride, hydrogen bromide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides etc.).

It has been proven that combinations of different chemicals which are not particularly harmful individually can give rise to entirely new hazardous effects. Moreover, the effects of chronic toxicants may be cumulative, and can remain latent for a long time before any symptoms arise or are even measurable. (Heys et al., 2016)

Firefighters may be exposed to toxic contaminants via multiple exposure pathways:

Inhalation. Many gases, vapours, mists, dusts and fibres released during fires can be inhaled through the lungs. The amount of contaminant inhaled by a person is directly linked to the volume of air inspired and expired, which increases with physical exertion.

Normal breathing frequency at rest is 12-20 breaths per minute (approx. 7-14 litres of air). However, under extreme stress, firefighters with normal lung capacity can metabolise up to 100 litres of air per minute (Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, 2015).

Dermal Absorption occurs when a toxicant comes into contact with an individual’s skin. There are many situations in which firefighters’ skin comes into contact with harmful substances e.g. through direct contact with soot (touching the skin with contaminated hands or with gloves that have been in contact with fire debris) or when an area of skin is exposed in a smoky environment.

Absorption of toxicants via the skin will vary depending on exposure time, the quantity and type of substance, location and the surface area of the skin. The physical demands of firefighting (wearing breathing apparatus, performing rescues, post fire activities etc.) and the high temperatures in which firefighters operate increases their blood flow, sweating rates and body temperature. Together with the body’s reduced water content, this leads to increased dermal absorption of fire effluents.

Ingestion (through the gastro-intestinal tract) occurs when a toxicant is swallowed.

Exposure to contaminants via ingestion may occur when food or drink is contaminated with fire effluents, e.g. if eating/drinking with soiled hands. In addition, when fire gases or particulates have entered the upper respiratory tract via inhalation, they may be carried via mucous and saliva into the digestive system and absorbed into the body.

Key Recommendations

Key recommendations are divided into two subgroups:

For Fire Personnel:

• Respiratory protective equipment (e.g. SCBA) should be worn at all times whilst firefighting. This should also include during salvage and turning over activities and other activities undertaken by FRS personnel (and/or others) after firefighting has been completed, but whilst the building contents are still ‘gassing off’. Respiratory protective equipment should be one of the last items of PPE removed during de-robing (after decontamination).
• PPE that is suspected of being contaminated should be transported back to the station or workplace in an air-tight container to prevent cross-contamination.
• Avoid eating, drinking or smoking with unwashed hands whilst wearing, or after de-robing PPE that may be contaminated.
• After attending a fire incident, all personnel should change into a set of clean, dry clothes as soon as possible, ideally before re-entering the appliance (or FDS vehicle).
• PPE should be clean and should be thoroughly decontaminated after every incident to avoid a build-up of toxic contaminants. PPE should be inspected for wear and damage on a regular basis, and replaced as necessary.
• It is important to protect areas of exposed skin and airways when cleaning soiled PPE/equipment. This requires appropriate respiratory protection (e.g. face masks or face coverings) and gloves.
• “Shower within an hour” when returning to the station from an incident, or following a live fire training exercise.
• Regular health screening and recording attendance at fire incidents over the course of a firefighter’s career is strongly advised and will be key to the longer-term monitoring and management of health.

For Fire and Rescue Services:

• Every Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) must have fully risk-assessed decontamination procedures (en-route to, during and after fire incidents), and ensure all relevant staff are trained in implementing these procedures.
• All FRS personnel should receive regular and up-to-date training on the harmful health effects of exposure to toxic fire effluents, and how these exposures can be reduced, minimised or eliminated.
• All FRSs should have policies in place for the routine care, maintenance, inspection and professional cleaning of PPE.
• Establishing and strictly maintaining “designated zones” within the fire station must be a priority for preventing cross-contamination. PPE should never be worn in areas of the station designated a clean zone (e.g. kitchens, living quarters etc.) and should be stored away from personal items.
• To reduce secondary exposures, appliance cabs and equipment from emergency response vehicles should be cleaned and decontaminated on a regular basis, especially after incidents where exposure to any combustion products occurred.

At FeuerTrutz 2022 in Nuremberg on June 29 and 30, WAGNER will be presenting its fire protection solutions, which are used worldwide in areas such as warehouses/logistics, data centers or museums, and archives.

Among other things, the expert relies on active fire prevention with oxygen reduction. Visitors can experience how this system works live at the booth. In addition, Matthias Dorsch, Head of Market Solution Management, will be speaking at the expert forum “BIM goes Fire Protection” on June 30 about “BIM in-plant fire protection: from theory to practice”.

OxyReduct® System

Oxygen reduction as an effective fire protection solution: This is how WAGNER ensures extra safety for customers all over the world.

The OxyReduct® system is used for active fire prevention in combination with early fire detection. The plant manufacturer will be demonstrating exactly how oxygen reduction works live at Booth 317 in Hall 4A from June 29 to 30, 2022. Visitors can experience fire behavior in an oxygen-reduced atmosphere in an OxyReduct® booth.

TITANUS® Air Sampling Smoke Detectors

Another focus at the WAGNER booth is the earliest possible fire detection with TITANUS® air sampling smoke detectors, which form the basis of every individual solution.

The experts will also present on-site where modern gas extinguishing systems are used and how the VisuLAN® organization and hazard management system controls and centrally maps a wide range of safety-relevant systems.

Holistic Fire Protection Solution

Our customers receive an individual and efficient solution with systems for active fire prevention”

“We offer fire protection as a holistic solution. Trendsetting. Worldwide. Our fire protection solutions are always based on the individual analysis of the risks prevailing in the protected area as well as the customer’s protection goals,” says Dipl.-Ing. Steffen Springer, Managing Director, WAGNER Group GmbH.

“Regardless of whether it is a small archive or a huge high-bay warehouse: Our customers receive an individual and efficient solution with systems for active fire prevention or firefighting in combination with early fire detection.”

BIM Goes Fire Protection Forum

With a global network of locations and strong partners, the Hanover-based company offers better solutions in fire protection all over the world and can draw on a broad reference portfolio. The professional exchange will also not be neglected at Germany’s largest trade fair for plant engineering fire protection.

At the specialist forum “BIM goes Fire Protection” on June 30, Matthias Dorsch, Division Manager of Market Solution Management at WAGNER, will speak about “BIM in plant engineering fire protection: from theory to practice.”

Fire protection systems for modular and edge data centers typically use spot smoke detectors to identify possible threats as quickly as possible. Aspirating smoke detectors (ASD) may be used for very early smoke detection in the incipient stage of a fire. Gas detectors may be used where batteries (i.e. lithium-ion) are deployed. Even with the best of these fire safety detectors, the precise location & source of the potential threat is difficult to pinpoint, especially in high airflow environments, where smoke and gasses can be quickly transported away from the source.

What are the principal fire threats in most modular & edge data centers?

• Electrical feeds including PDUs, transformers, & inverters — short-circuits, electric overloads, power & grounding faults
• Batteries & UPS — overheating & thermal runaway
• Mechanical systems — AC & ventilation system anomalies & failure
• Leaks — water, battery electrolytes, fuels

In most cases, abnormal equipment heating precedes the presence of smoke or gas. To detect this overheating, early warning thermal imaging sensors, like those from ServersCheck, can monitor and detect a variety of threat conditions that, if left unchecked, could lead to a fire. These sensors do not replace fire safety systems — they complement them well by pinpointing the source, providing additional time to investigate a potential threat before it can escalate.

Traditional temperature sensors measure the air temperature near the target equipment, limiting their effectiveness for detecting overheating. Thermal imaging sensors record 2-dimensional images of surface temperatures on the target equipment. This is important for precisely locating the source of the overheating.

Since thermal imaging sensors detect light in the infrared range (IR), they need no visible light for analysis and are ideal in dark enclosures. The thermal images produced by the sensors provide an image with colors ranging from black to blue, red, and yellow indicating increasing temperatures. Abnormal hot spots on the equipment can easily be identifies, as well at the intensity.

Portable (i.e. hand-held) thermal imaging equipment has been used for years for installation surveys and periodic inspections of electrical switchgear, IT equipment, PDU, and UPS modules. Indeed, these inspections may be required before a data center becomes operational. However, data centers need to be available 24/7/365, so continual monitoring with thermal imaging sensors is more appropriate for fire safety.

Besides fire prevention, thermal image sensors can also improve equipment uptime and prevent failure with early warning of potential overheating. Additionally, thermal imaging can assist with cooling and ventilation tuning to direct airflow to potential hotspots in the data center enclosure.

As an example, ServersCheck thermal imaging sensors will monitor up to 19,200 individual points every 2 seconds with varying fields of view (FoV) and temperature accuracy. A variety of equipment ranging from electrical panels, to switch gear, PDUs, UPSs, and even server racks can be monitored to provide very early detection of potential fire threats.

The sensors are networked and powered by PoE with temperature data delivered continually to a building management system (BMS) or industrial and IT automation platforms via Modbus TCP, RTU (RS485), or SNMP.

In the accompanying image, a PDU is being monitored by a thermal imaging sensor sensor at < 20 feet. Hot spots can be identified, and temperature changes or thresholds can alert management systems of a potential problem depending on the specified operational temperature range.

Figure 1 — Actual image (with closeup superimposed) of from a ServersCheck Thermal Imaging Sensor (R) monitoring a Power Distribution Unit (L). (Source: Viking Integrated Safety)

Sensors with lower resolutions can be used to monitor batteries, automatic transfer switches (ATS), and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). The earlier recognition of thermal irregularities can prevent problems before they lead to more expensive system failures.

Early warning thermal imaging sensors are enhancing fire safety, especially in unmanned critical infrastructure like modular and edge data centers. These sensors can monitor rapid temperature changes that have often gone undetected in the past. Their inclusion in a fire protection system can help avoid catastrophe and ensure operational continuity.

Mike Crovo is the General Manager of Viking Integrated Safety and has 15+ years in business development, sales, and executive roles for Viking, Honeywell, Jensen Hughes, Xtralis and other leading fire safety companies.

Q: I was cleaning out my parents’ house the other day, and I found an fire extinguisher that looks like it’s about 20 years old. What’s the best way to get rid of it? Any advice you can give on how to dispose of a fire extinguisher?

A: You’re right to assume that an expired 20-year-old fire extinguisher is probably not safe or reliable to use anymore. Just as knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is important, it is almost equally important to know when it is time to dispose of an old fire extinguisher and replace it with a new one.

Fire extinguishers are filled with hazardous materials that are under high pressure. Thus, they should not be put in the regular trash. Read on to learn more about when old fire extinguishers should be replaced and how to dispose of a fire extinguisher properly and safely.

When should an old fire extinguisher be replaced?

Before disposing of old fire extinguishers, confirm that they actually need to be replaced. Fire extinguishers typically last between 5 and 15 years. In some cases, you may be able to find an expiration date or a date of manufacturing on the canister, which can help clue you in on the fire extinguisher’s age.

Even if you can’t find a date, there are other ways to assess whether you should replace your old model with a new fire extinguisher. If your fire extinguisher has any dents or bumps, is missing the pin or tamper seal, or otherwise looks to be in poor condition, it is time to promptly find a replacement.

If your old fire extinguisher has a pressure gauge, check to confirm that the needle is still pointing to the green section. When the needle is pointing to the red or white area on the gauge, it means it is either time to recharge or dispose of the fire extinguisher.

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Some fire extinguishers can be recharged.

As you’re thinking about what to do with old fire extinguishers, keep in mind that some fire extinguishers can be recharged. If the pressure has dropped in your canister, or it has been discharged, recharging the fire extinguisher can make it safe to use again.

You should not attempt to recharge a fire extinguisher on your own due to the highly pressurized contents. Special equipment is required to recharge a fire extinguisher, so this is a task that is best left to a professional. Contact a fire protection company or a certified fire equipment dealer to make an appointment to have your fire extinguisher recharged.

Empty fire extinguishers can be recycled.

If you’re wondering how to dispose of old fire extinguishers, you may be able to recycle them if the canister is empty. Full fire extinguishers cannot be recycled because of the hazardous materials they contain. Once they’re empty, however, these hazardous materials are no longer a concern. You may be able to put the fire extinguisher out with your other recycling to be picked up.

Call your recycling company to confirm that they will recycle fire extinguishers that are empty. If they will not pick them up with the regular collection, ask about dropping the empty fire extinguisher off at a local recycling center.

depositphotos.com

Your local fire department may accept old or used fire extinguishers.

Bringing old or used fire extinguishers to the fire department may also be a viable solution for those who wonder, “How do you dispose of fire extinguishers?” If your fire extinguisher has not been discharged, rather than trying to empty and recycle it yourself, contact your local fire station.

Some fire stations allow residents to drop off expired, damaged, or otherwise unusable fire extinguishers. They will take care of properly disposing of the hazardous materials inside the canister and then recycle the rest of the materials.

Dispose of old fire extinguishers at your local household hazardous waste facility.

Another approved option for fire extinguisher disposal is to bring it to a hazardous waste disposal facility in your area. If you’re not sure where your local facility is located, try searching for “where to dispose of old fire extinguishers near me.” Also, your city or county government’s website may include information about their household hazardous waste disposal services and drop-off locations.

After you identify your local hazardous waste facility location, call to confirm that they accept fire extinguishers, whether there’s a limit on the number of fire extinguishers that you can drop off, and whether these materials are accepted only on certain days. If you’re looking to dispose of fire extinguishers on behalf of a commercial enterprise, there may also be additional protocols to follow.

Steel Family Holdings is pleased to announce the acquisition of Fire Detection Devices Ltd.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to bring Fire Detection Devices Ltd., a known and trusted Canadian brand, into the SFH group of companies”, said Jason Steel, President. “Our goal with this new venture is to build on the legacy of this industry pioneer, by investing in the original patented heat detector, to make it even more accessible to the market.”

Fire Detection Devices Ltd. has offered heat detection solutions for over 50 years, and includes the most reliable spot-type heat detectors on the market today. For many in the fire alarm industry, conventional heat detectors are easily recognized by their distinctive heat collecting disc. This design was the brainchild of Jack Duggan. In 1962, Jack incorporated Fire Devices Manufacturing Limited, and began manufacturing his patented design. The “Thermoflex” brand has been made in Canada, by Canadians ever since.

“The past two years have been challenging for those in the manufacturing sector,” said Patricia Duggan, President of Fire Detection Devices. “This shift in the landscape inspired us to find someone who could carry on the work our father, Jack Duggan began over sixty years ago. We feel very fortunate to have met Jason Steel, and we believe SFH will not only continue to produce quality heat detectors but will take Jack’s vision to another level.”

Over the last 5 years SFH has acquired Serva-Lite Sales, SOTA Battery and Battery2000. The company continues to maintain the highest level of service and product quality, growing the business of customers across Canada and throughout North America and other export markets.

About Steel Family Holdings

Steel Family Holdings acquires companies with leading brand recognition in the Fire, Life, and Safety industry. Our customers are OEMS, distributors and service companies that service or sell into the fire and life safety industries. SFH is a family-owned and operated company with a long track record of exceeding customer expectations. Please visit https://www.steelfire.com/ for more information.

The risk of catastrophic wildfires is growing around the world as climate change fuels sizzling, tinder-dry conditions, increasing the need for fire-prone countries to adopt preventative measures, scientists warned Wednesday.

Smart, proactive policies – such as setting fires at the end of rainy periods to reduce blazes during hot, dry spells – could help reduce the danger, they said in a report for the U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP).

Here’s why wildfires are a growing threat – and how the world can better adapt to changing risks:

Why are wildfire threats growing so significantly?

The size and destructive capacity of wildfires – whether started on purpose, accidentally or by natural phenomena such as lightning – depends largely on the weather and how much fuel is available to burn, as well as where the fire breaks out.

As climate change brings more extreme weather, the risks are growing, scientists say.

“The heating of the planet is turning landscapes into tinderboxes, while more extreme weather means stronger, hotter, drier winds to fan the flames,” the report warned.

That means “uncontrollable and devastating wildfires are becoming an expected part of our seasonal calendars”.

In some countries, setting intentional fires to clear undergrowth is also becoming harder as homes expand into wooded fire-risk areas or as fire-suppression policies are favoured, meaning the amount of fuel available to fires is growing.

Where are wildfires a risk today?

Just about everywhere there is land to burn. In January, the U.S. state of Colorado lost more than 1,000 homes and saw half a billion dollars in damages as unprecedented wildfires roared through urban communities north of Denver.

Australia, the U.S. West Coast, Canada and parts of southern Europe, among other places, have long been known for their seasonal wildfires. But fire risk is now surging as well in places from Syria to Siberia and India, scientists say.

That is a problem both because governments facing blazes may have less experience managing them, and because fires release the carbon stored in trees into the atmosphere, fueling climate change and reducing the future area of carbon-absorbing forests.

Fires can also cause air pollution and associated health problems, affect rainfall as moisture-producing trees disappear, burn crops and destroy nature, as well as create mental health problems and potential job losses for people living near them.

Growing efforts by companies and governments to offset their climate-changing emissions by paying to protect and expand forests could also be at risk if forested lands are ravaged by fire.

How bad might things get in the future?

Scientists say the kind of “catastrophic” fires that once happened about every 100 years will become 1.3 to 1.5 times more frequent by the turn of the century.

That includes fires like an 1851 blaze in Australia’s Victoria state that devastated an area the size of England, said Andrew Sullivan, a bushfire expert at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Canberra.

While particularly destructive, Australia’s 2019-2020 fire season did not see a similarly catastrophic fire, rather an unusually large number of more normal fires, said Sullivan, one of the authors of the UNEP report.

Catastrophic-scale fires could happen anywhere, he said – from remote stretches of boreal forest in Siberia to more typical fire-risk areas.

Some could be particularly damaging – such as those in tropical rainforests or other ecosystems where seasonal fires are not a natural occurrence, meaning plants and wildlife are not adapted to fire and may struggle to recover.

“It’s not normal to have fires in rainforests,” said Glynis Humphrey, a plant conservation specialist at the University of Cape Town and a report author.

What can be done to curb worsening fire risk?

Portugal’s fire risk started to rise more than two decades ago as migration out of the countryside to the cities left more land unattended, allowing flammable undergrowth to accumulate.

But from 2003 onwards, following deadly wildfires, officials started reviewing the country’s land management and worked to revitalize rural economies, bringing people back into them to cut fire risks.

“Portugal is probably the outstanding example in the world at the moment,” said Peter Moore, a fire management specialist with the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), referring to preventative policy action.

Southern African countries, such as South Africa and Namibia, are increasingly setting fuel-clearing fires at the end of the rainy season to reduce the ferocity of blazes during hot and dry times of the year.

Other fire-prone regions – from Australia to the western United States – are trying to adopt aspects of indigenous peoples’ fire management techniques.

Such efforts to move away from suppressing fires to regularly using controlled ones are a key to reducing risks of catastrophic fires, the report said.

“There’s been a lot of focus on fire suppression and fire prevention for decades. I think we’re at a turning point,” Humphrey said.

But most governments today still spend far more money fighting fires than figuring out ways to better prepare for and manage them – a losing game as climate change drives bigger, more frequent and more costly fires, the scientists said.

“Too often our response is tardy, costly and after the fact, with many countries suffering from a chronic lack of investment in planning and prevention,” the report warned.