Fire incidents are unpredictable and can strike at any time and in any place, causing serious harm and damage. Despite being inherently dangerous, fire safety remains a critical yet often underestimated area of concern. To address the increasing need for awareness and readiness in fire safety, Hyderabad is set to host FESA 24, the National Seminar on Fire, Electrical, Security, and Automation, on November 7th and 8th at HICC, Madhapur. This landmark two-day event is anticipated to be India’s most comprehensive gathering on fire safety and related subjects, particularly focused on the pharmaceutical sector.
The Organization Behind FESA 24: Fire & Security Association of India (FSAI)
FESA 24 is organized by the Fire & Security Association of India (FSAI), a 22-year-old pan-Indian, non-profit trade body that champions fire protection, life safety, security, building automation, and risk management. FSAI has a robust network of 25 chapters and over 10,000 members nationwide. During a recent press conference at Hotel Plaza, Greenlands, Hyderabad, key FSAI leaders, including National President Mr. Srinivas Valluri and Chapter President Mr. Prasad Nishtala, shared details about the seminar and its significance.
Focus on Hyderabad’s Pharma Industry
Hyderabad, known as the pharmaceutical capital of India and a hub for pharma industries in Southeast Asia, has witnessed several fire incidents in the recent past. Given this backdrop, FESA 24 will provide a crucial platform for 300 senior managers from over 100 pharmaceutical companies, including the top 50 in the sector, to discuss and strategize fire safety solutions. As Mr. Valluri pointed out, the seminar is particularly timely and relevant to Hyderabad, a city central to the nation’s pharmaceutical landscape.
FSAI’s Contributions to Fire Safety
Mr. Valluri, the first Telugu-speaking National President of FSAI, emphasized the organization’s groundbreaking work in fire safety. A significant milestone is the development of the Fire Suraksha Index (FSI), a world-first comprehensive evaluation system that assesses the fire and security readiness of buildings. Countries around the world are examining FSAI’s Fire Suraksha Index as a model to adopt and implement.
It actively works with the Government of Telangana’s proposed Skill University and plans to launch structured training programs on fire safety. The association also aims to open new Skill Development Centers in Mumbai and Hyderabad, along with an upcoming international chapter in Dubai.
Sobering Fire Safety Statistics
The importance of FESA 24 becomes even more apparent when considering the sobering statistics shared during the press conference. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, over 60 people die daily in India due to fire incidents. These figures underline the critical need for comprehensive fire management strategies, particularly in high-risk sectors like pharmaceuticals.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Speakers
FESA 24 will feature an impressive roster of industry experts, including:
- Mr. N.V. Subba Rao, Chief Executive, Cholamandalam MS
- Mr. L. Veda Selvakumar, Assistant Vice President and Group Manager of Field Engineering, FM Global India
- Mr. Madhan Kumar Nagarajan, DGM, Schneider Electric
- Mr. Vinod Kapse, Founder & Principal Consultant, Kapse Consulting Engineers
- Mr. Gopal Krishnan, Electrical Safety Lead, Chola MS Risk Services
- Mr. Rishi Chahal, Co-Founder & Director, IDCUBE
- Major Prakash Kapade, Lead Technical Consultant in Fire, MEP, Security, and Automation, SSIES
- Mr. Karthikeyan G, Field Services Technical/Project Manager, UL Solutions
These speakers will offer insights across a wide range of topics, from fire risk assessment and safety in high-hazard storage areas to the use of IoT in pharma safety and the latest trends in security.
Diverse and Informative Sessions
According to Mr. Prasad Nishtala, FSAI Hyderabad Chapter President, FESA 24 will cover subjects critical to the pharmaceutical industry, such as Process Hazard Analysis (PHA), risk identification and mitigation in production areas, and fire safety audits.
Fire Safety in Today’s World
From mobile phone explosions to e-vehicle battery fires, risks are everywhere. As highlighted by Mr. Manoj Balakrishnan, Chair of FSAI Branding, a fire can ignite and spread rapidly, often doubling in size every 30 seconds. Modern fire management techniques must consider diverse scenarios, including homes, workplaces, public spaces, and more.
Fire Safety in Pharma Industries
Given the high risk of fire in pharmaceutical settings, with their abundance of flammable materials, combustible liquids, and high-ceilinged storage spaces, fire management is crucial. As Mr. P. Sravan Kumar, Vice Chair of FSAI Operations, emphasized, the seminar will address these unique challenges.
An Exhibition of Innovations
FESA 24 will also host an exhibition featuring over 30 exhibitors showcasing state-of-the-art fire safety products and technologies. The exhibition is open to the public, offering an opportunity to stay updated on the latest advancements in fire safety and automation.
Fascinating Fire Facts
To add a touch of curiosity, consider these fire facts: Earth is the only planet known to support fire, which can double in size every 30 seconds under the right conditions. Fire is self-sustaining, and interestingly, water—despite being used to extinguish flames—can also start a fire under specific conditions.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this pivotal event that aims to set new benchmarks in fire safety and security. Join FESA 24 in Hyderabad and be a part of this game-changing seminar.
