The IoT evolution: Paul Pope discusses the benefits of IoT integration and the risks of cyber threats in connected systems
Iain Hoey
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By Paul Pope, EngTech AIFireE LCGI, Global Head of Fire and Life Safety Business at Ajax Systems
Current fire industry trends are moving faster towards remote connectivity despite cyber security and resilience concerns.
The use of remote monitoring technology in residential and non-residential fire protection systems is now enjoying a revolution, and this part of the fire sector will inevitably grow further in 2025 and beyond.
Due to ongoing technological advancements, the impact of IoT is reshaping the industry landscapes and enhancing operational efficiency as companies focus on integrating innovation into the competitive landscape.
The trail of digital connectivity and interconnectivity will significantly improve property and life safety systems going forward.
Accessibility to products and systems will be radically improved.
Smart integration with other systems will provide real-time intelligence, which can increase the speed of information, control, and response to evolving emergencies.
This information exchange and instant access will also create further industry challenges for privacy and security.
Inevitably, there are always concerns about onboarding a new process, and reservations about the technology are now changing.
There is comprehensive guidance from the Fire Industry Association on the remote access and control of fire detection and alarm systems, and within EN 50710:2021, which lays out the requirements of secure remote services for fire safety and security systems.
These important documents represent a step forward for manufacturers, installers, maintenance companies, and end-users of remote services.
Clarity has now been provided regarding what can and cannot be achieved with this technology.
Accessibility to fire detection products and alarm systems will be significantly enhanced.
Smart integration with other related systems will provide real-time intelligence, which can radically increase the speed of information, control, and response to evolving emergencies.
The importance of data protection, ensuring client confidentiality, and protecting sensitive information, alongside the latest cybersecurity, will eliminate all potential and real risks to future systems through connectivity and interconnectivity.
With this in mind, it is advisable to have an agreement in place with the end-user to establish what can, and cannot be accessed remotely.
Remote connectivity also has risks that should be managed professionally.
For example, you could accidentally isolate devices, or there could be risks of a cyber-attack on the system if there are no secure procedures for accessing remotely.
Those using this technology should familiarise themselves with the standards and gain the highest level of regulatory competence.
Finally, it is important that when using remote access, your system remains as secure as if the engineer was actually present on site, and remote servicing should never be used to replace on-site inspections, as required by regulations.
About the IFSJ Influencer
Paul Pope is the Global Head of Fire and Life Safety Business for Ajax Systems, and a board director of the Fire Industry Association (FIA).
With 35 years of experience, he is recognised as a passionate advocate for improving industry standards and technological innovation.
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