Focus of the Conference
The conference will focus on key aspects of fire station design, particularly how the layout and facilities can reduce exposure to harmful contaminants.
This issue has become increasingly important as studies highlight the risks of cross-contamination and the long-term health effects firefighters face due to exposure to hazardous particles.
Presentations
The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (HIWFRS) will be a central contributor, with two impactful presentations.
Steven ‘Robbie’ Burns, Watch Manager of Fire Contaminants at HIWFRS, will share his personal experience with cancer, an alarming disease believed to be linked to occupational exposure to fire contaminants.
His presentation will emphasise the real and immediate health risks that firefighters face, and the need to redesign fire stations to mitigate these dangers. The estate’s flow – cleaning processes – and overall maintenance are crucial for protecting those in contact with contaminants.
Emily Frith, Senior Estates Improvement Manager for HIWFRS, will present the Retrospective Design Principles Project (RDP). This ambitious project focuses on retrofitting 12 existing whole-time fire stations to meet modern standards.
The RDP addresses challenges such as ageing facilities, outdated infrastructure, and the need to comply with current legislation. The project emphasises inclusivity, reducing the risk of contamination, and creating healthy workspaces for firefighters and support staff.
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service will also deliver a significant presentation led by Karl Edwards, Director of Corporate Services. Edwards will outline how ECFRS is transforming its fire stations to prioritise inclusivity, mental well-being, and safety.
He will discuss the implementation of Red, Amber, Green zones in fire stations, designed to mitigate contamination risks. ECFRS is also leading the charge towards net carbon zero, adopting sustainable practices in their operations to reduce their carbon footprint.
Other key presentations will come from HLM Architects and Crofton Engineering, focusing on:
Decontamination Processes: Improving fire station design to protect firefighters from carcinogen-laden soot and other harmful particles.
Carbon Reduction: Incorporating energy-efficient designs to help fire stations reduce their environmental impact and work towards achieving net-zero emissions.
Gender-Neutral Design: Creating inclusive spaces for men, women, and gender-neutral personnel and visitors.
Mental Well-Being: Enhancing fire station layouts to provide decompression areas for firefighters and staff to unwind and recover from the stresses of the job.
Fire Behaviour Training Units (FBTUs): Showcasing the latest in LPG-powered training structures from Crofton Engineering, designed to improve fire safety training.
