FireVu: Visual Smoke Detection solution to protect high value assets
FireVu protects high value assets in a range of industries across the globe. It utilises Visual Smoke Detection (VSD) technology developed and refined by AD Network Video, part of well- known industry pioneer AD Group. Today it is used by many of the world’s most recognised companies, to protect national infrastructure and landmarks as well as many military forces.
Visual Smoke Detection
VSD is a proven technology. It works by identifying characteristic smoke patterns across a CCTV image. Changes in brightness, contrast, shape, edge content, motion, colour matching and loss of detail alert operators, remotely or on site to potential fire danger. FireVu also issues early alerts based on detecting flames.
Higher risk areas can be identified and focused on the operator’s monitor.
FireVu has dual layer analysis functionality. A pre-filter picks up the loss of detail and contrast. A second layer is more sophisticated, analysing the changing of shape and movement. This analytical feature helps reduce false alarms.
The operators screen can be split into 16 zones so areas of particular danger can be focussed upon, with areas of less interest screened out.
Yet, extensive sites, such as logistics facilities, can be comprehensively monitored across the facility. Multiple camera systems can be installed for monitoring wide areas that have many potential areas of fire risk concern.
Live footage can be recorded and replayed or downloaded for future assessment of fire alerts and to minimise risks. It can be used for evidential purposes – surveillance monitoring footage is fully accepted in UK courts of law. It can also assist emergency services in directing their efforts.
FireVu is also about providing tailored solutions to clients and so consultancy and training are an integral part of the offering.
Research and development first began in the 1990s and with continual improvements to the technology it has become an essential early fire alert system for many businesses that have high value assets.
FireVu has been in particular demand in the transport, military, food and drink processing sectors, power generation and nuclear industries, recycling and waste management.
Prestige buildings form a major component of the FireVu client base. Modern high value buildings such as the iconic Gherkin use FireVu to safeguard spaces that present particular and unusual fire risk issues.
FireVu is also used in heritage buildings such as London Guildhall. The issue of effective fire detection must adhere to the regulations and the listed status of the building. In the case of London Guildhall’s medieval crypts the detectors are hidden in period light fittings, undetectable to all but the most observant and closest observers. Yet, delivering effective early fire detection for an irreplaceable and precious piece of the UK’s history.
This is a particularly interesting time for FireVu.
Fire in this technical age is not as rare an occurrence in business environments as you might think. Indeed landfill, recycling and waste management registers a touch under one fire every day of the year in the UK. The damage to health, the environment and the pressure on the emergency services as well as the economic damage is substantial. Insurance suppliers are responding by raising and even denying policies to businesses in the sector. Using FireVu can secure and lower premiums.
Other industries that use FireVu need stringent safeguards for ever present issues that demand early fire detection. Each presents its own challenges, be it in the nuclear, food processing, the transport sector or any other industry.
The technological innovation, client base, track record and international presence have all been firmly established.
The imminent introduction of new standards should help give further assurance to potential clients.
This potential and the offering itself has ensured that the FireVu client base and team is growing substantially.
FireVu has manufacturing, technical and customer support facilities and offices in the USA, The Gulf, Australia and across Europe. Its client base extends further and includes South Africa and South America.
Please contact FireVu on enquiry@firevu.co.uk and through www.firevu.co.uk
