MSA Safety Incorporated recently launched a week-long event – called MSA: Connected – that used digital technologies to offer firefighters and first responders the latest information on various product and technology-based safety solutions. “The timing of MSA: Connected is not a coincidence,” said Yohan Morel, MSA Senior Marketing Manager, First Responder, Europe. “Interschutz, the world’s largest trade fair focusing on fire service and security, was originally scheduled for this week in Hannover, Germany. Because we recognise the value and knowledge our customers gain by attending conferences like this in person, our vision was to create a unique experience for customers that helps them stay connected with the latest in firefighter safety technology.”

Among the many activities scheduled were a series of live webinars that offered participants the opportunity to connect directly with MSA safety technology experts. Topics for these sessions included voice communications, technology standards, best practices to help reduce contamination risk, among many others.

The new M1 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) was also showcased in the company’s portfolio. Designed to meet the European Norm 137 (EN137) safety, health and environmental protection standards, as well as ATEX intrinsic safety standards for usage in hazardous or explosive atmospheres, the M1 SCBA is fully customizable and can be configured to meet a broad range of firefighter needs and brigade budgets.  Among its innovative features are a padded harness that is fully water-repellent, the industry’s lightest-weight backplate, and an advanced hip belt that evenly distributes SCBA weight for much improved ergonomics.