2005 was a subdued year for the active fire protection market: Key Note estimates that, in 2005, the total UK market was worth £1.1m at current end-user prices, an increase of 1.9% on 2004. A higher level of growth of 3% is forecast for 2006, bringing the market's value to £1.2m.
The fire protection market can be divided into two main sectors: fire detection and alarm systems; and fire extinguishing equipment and materials. The main product categories for fire suppression are portable extinguishers, fixed extinguishing systems and fire hoses. The total market includes the cost of design, supply, installation, maintenance, and the commissioning of alarm systems and fixed extinguishing systems, as well as the supply and maintenance of portable extinguishers. It also includes the cost of monitoring fire-alarm systems and services such as risk assessment.
Growth in construction output helped the market between 2001 and 2004, but preliminary figures for 2005 suggest that overall building output has fallen. However, the output of new housing has continued to grow strongly, boosting demand for household fire protection products. Key Note commissioned exclusive consumer research in May 2006, which found an increase in the household penetration of smoke alarms, extinguishers and fire blankets between 2004 and 2006.
There have been several changes to legislation and regulations over the past 5 years, and more changes are imminent. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order came into force in England and Wales on 1st October 2006. This places responsibility for fire safety in workplaces and publicly accessible premises on a `responsible person'. Changes to the building regulations have already increased the type of sites that need to be fitted with sprinklers and further changes are expected. Schools are also anticipated to be a high-growth area for sprinkler demand in 2006 and 2007. Other recent legislation concerns the recycling of fire protection equipment and chemicals, and the effect of releasing fire suppressing chemicals on the environment. Compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act brings the need for fire alarms that can protect the deaf by means of flashing lights and vibrating pillow pads.
The Chief Fire Officers' Association (CFOA) has introduced a policy on attending call-outs by automatic alarms and this should eventually ensure that alarms are properly installed and maintained, and reduce the high level of false alarms.
Key Note forecasts that, between 2006 and 2010, the total UK fire protection market will grow by around 3% per annum at current prices, keeping a little ahead of expected inflation.
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