Firefly’s preventive fire protection systems safeguard recycling plants against ignition risks
In the fast-growing recycling industry, safety and sustainability go hand in hand. Facilities that handle paper, plastics, metals, or waste-derived fuels face an increasing challenge: how to manage the high fire risk inherent in processing combustible materials, while maintaining efficiency and compliance with environmental and safety standards. Firefly, a global leader in industrial fire prevention, has developed advanced protection systems designed specifically to meet this challenge – safeguarding both people and production in the UK’s recycling sector and beyond.
Rising fire risks in modern recycling
As recycling volumes and automation increase, so too does the potential for fires. Shredders, conveyors, dryers, and filters can all generate heat, friction, or sparks. Combined with airborne dust and flammable material, these conditions create a volatile environment where a single ignition source can lead to devastating fires or explosions.
For operators, the consequences extend far beyond property damage. A fire can cause days or weeks of downtime, loss of valuable materials, environmental contamination, and in severe cases, reputational harm or legal liability. In this context, proactive fire prevention is not simply a regulatory requirement – it is a business-critical strategy.
“Preventive fire protection isn’t just compliance – it’s a commitment to people, production, and the planet.”
Firefly’s preventive approach to fire protection
Firefly’s Spark Detection System identifies and neutralizes ignition sources in milliseconds.
Firefly stands apart through its focus on preventive fire protection – detecting and eliminating ignition sources before a fire can develop. This philosophy underpins all of the company’s systems, which combine advanced detection, rapid response, and intelligent control.
At the core of many Firefly installations is the Spark Detection System, designed to identify sparks, embers, or hot particles travelling through ducts or conveyors in milliseconds. Once detected, the system activates automatic water extinguishing or diversion mechanisms, stopping ignition sources before they can reach combustible material downstream.
The Quick Suppression System (QSS) delivers fast, localised protection for high-risk equipment.
Complementing this is Firefly’s Quick Suppression System (QSS) – a high-speed, localised suppression technology engineered to suppress flames within seconds of detection. The QSS uses specialised nozzles and sensors to deliver precise water mist or foam suppression, minimising both water usage and potential damage to sensitive equipment.
Firefly EXIMIO™ provides operators with full visibility and control through a unified digital platform.
For system-wide intelligence and operational transparency, Firefly’s EXIMIO™ platform integrates all detection and suppression components into a single, user-friendly interface. Firefly EXIMIO™ allows operators to monitor, analyse, and optimise system performance in real time. With data logging and remote monitoring capabilities, it provides valuable insights for preventive maintenance and long-term risk reduction.
“With Firefly EXIMIO™, operators can see their entire fire protection system in one intelligent interface – a true digital twin for safety.”
Supporting sustainable and compliant operations
Firefly solutions help recycling operators maintain safe, sustainable, and compliant operations.
Beyond protecting people and assets, Firefly’s technology plays an important role in supporting sustainable operations. Fire incidents in recycling plants can cause severe environmental harm – releasing pollutants, destroying recyclable material, and disrupting circular economy goals. By preventing fires before they start, Firefly helps operators maintain cleaner, safer, and more resource-efficient production.
The systems are designed to comply with major international standards, including ATEX, NFPA, and FM Global guidelines. This ensures that recycling facilities not only reduce their operational risks but also remain aligned with increasingly stringent environmental and safety regulations. Moreover, Firefly’s energy-efficient designs and precision-based water use align with the industry’s broader commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.
Partnering for a safer future
With decades of experience, Firefly continues to innovate fire protection technology for global industries.
Firefly’s decades of experience in high-risk industries – from wood processing to recycling and bioenergy – have made it a trusted partner for some of the world’s most safety-conscious operators. Each installation is engineered to the customer’s specific process and material flow, ensuring optimal coverage and minimal disruption to production.
As recycling continues to expand as a cornerstone of global sustainability, the importance of robust fire prevention technology will only increase. Firefly’s integrated systems not only protect facilities from costly and dangerous incidents but also support the industry’s mission to operate safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
In the words of Firefly’s guiding principle: it’s not just about extinguishing fires – it’s about preventing them before they start. By combining innovation, intelligence, and responsibility, Firefly continues to protect what matters most: people, property, and the planet.
Angélica Ayala, UK/Ireland Manager,
M +44 (0)7565 105081
Office +46 (0)8 449 25 00
www.firefly.se