Emergency safety in focus at AFAC17

New technologies and live rescue techniques will be on display at the AFAC17 powered by INTERSCHUTZ conference in September.

Emergency management leaders will convene to learn about the latest research and safety techniques, as well as view live demonstrations of road crash rescues and virtual reality training.

The FlAim Trainer, a virtual reality (VR) firefighter training simulator created by Deakin University, will be on display at the event. The simulator combines industry standard equipment with innovative technology to create a realistic training scenario for future firefighters. It also uses a touch technology feedback system in a lifelike emergency situation, combined with the reality of the heavyweight uniform — including breathing apparatus and personal protective clothing with heat generation components.

“It’s vital we use next-generation technologies to solve real-world problems. The FlAim Trainer enables us to replicate real emergency situations and scenarios in a safer and more cost-effective way than traditional training techniques,” said James Mullins, Associate Professor of Defence Robotics, Deakin University.

“Exploring new applications of technology is vital to ensure firefighters across Australia continue to have the highest standards of education, training and knowledge to safely assist during times of emergency.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to witness multiple live demonstrations. Road crash rescue expert the Australasian Road Rescue Organisation (ARRO) will demonstrate a new rescue technique to release legs trapped by compression. It was developed in New Zealand and is showcasing in Australia for the first time.

Safety is paramount for fire and emergency service workers, and the rise in residential solar power to over 1.6 million homes in Australia presents a new risk for responders. When exposed to light, solar panels continue to produce potentially hazardous amounts of DC electricity, creating a ‘DC danger zone’ for firefighters. AFAC17 will feature a live demonstration from PVStop, an innovative fire retardant solution that drops solar panels voltage to zero and removes the risk of solar panel explosions, maintaining the safety of emergency responders.

Also on show will be a new DSPA Fire Suppression Aerosol, an underwater fire suppression unit primarily used for marine fires. Even when fully submerged in water, the DSPA Aerosol is able to put out a fire safely. The fixed system is a safe solution designed for engine bays on all commercial vehicles, including cab and sleeper units, mining, forestry machinery, long-haul freightliners and large buses.

AFAC17 powered by INTERSCHUTZ will take place at the International Convention Centre Sydney, Darling Harbour from 5–6 September 2017.