Ci Global launches safety smart sockets to tackle electrical fire risks


Iain Hoey
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UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia approve Ci Global’s safety smart sockets
Ci Global has announced the launch of its first safety smart sockets, Ci One and Ci Max.
These patented devices are designed to detect overheating electrical faults and automatically cut power before a fire can start.
The sockets are fully certified for use in the UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, with further approvals expected in other markets.
The development follows concerns over electrical faults being a leading cause of residential and commercial fires worldwide.
Anthony Parfitt, Founder and Chairman of Ci Global, developed the technology following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.
Parfitt said: “If this technology had been in place at Grenfell, the fire could have been stopped before it started. No other socket can claim to prevent fires in this way.”
Fire prevention beyond legislative measures
The UK government has introduced new building safety reforms in response to the Grenfell Inquiry.
However, Parfitt argues that these measures focus on accountability rather than prevention.
“The new regulations are an important step forward, but they focus on accountability after the risks have already been built into homes,” said Parfitt.
“True prevention means stopping electrical fires before they start, not just managing their aftermath.”
Ci Global is advocating for changes in fire safety legislation to include preventive measures like smart sockets in all buildings.
Addressing electrical fire risks at the source
Electrical faults remain a persistent fire risk, particularly due to overloaded sockets, faulty chargers, and substandard electrical devices.
These issues can lead to fires while residents are asleep, making early intervention critical.
“To stop electrical fires, we need to prevent them at the source,” said Parfitt.
“The Ci smart safety socket is designed to do just that – stop electrical fires before they can even start.”
The safety smart sockets have built-in thermal monitoring technology, allowing real-time detection of overheating. This system automatically shuts off power to prevent ignition.
Expanding safety features beyond fire prevention
Ci One and Ci Max provide additional safety features beyond fire prevention.
The sockets can detect hazards such as water leaks, mould, gas leaks, and even seismic activity.
The technology also reduces energy consumption by powering down standby devices when not in use.
A proof-of-concept trial was conducted at a seven-story high-rise in London, demonstrating the socket’s capabilities to industry stakeholders, including global property developers and insurance representatives.
Ci Global has committed a portion of future profits to installing smart sockets in UK social housing and is seeking government support for wider adoption.
Ci Global launches safety smart sockets to tackle electrical fire risks: Summary
Ci Global has introduced its first safety smart sockets, Ci One and Ci Max, designed to prevent electrical fires by detecting overheating and cutting power before a fire starts.
The sockets are certified for use in the UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, with additional approvals expected.
Founder Anthony Parfitt developed the technology following the Grenfell Tower fire and is advocating for fire prevention measures beyond current legislation.
Ci Global is seeking government support to install smart sockets in social housing.
The sockets also detect additional hazards, including water leaks, gas leaks, and seismic activity.
A London high-rise trial demonstrated their effectiveness, attracting interest from industry professionals.
The company has pledged future profits toward expanding access to the technology.