International working groups will examine occupational health risks, smart protective equipment and oversight of AI tools.

UL Research Institutes’ Fire Safety Research Institute is supporting international working groups examining firefighter health hazards and the use of emerging technologies in emergency response.

The effort is part of the World Fire Congress Communities of Practice program for 2026-28, which connects fire service organizations and researchers through monthly discussions and research sharing.

A health and safety group will address heart health, psychological well-being, cancer and exposure to toxic substances. Science Alliance and the International Association of Fire Fighters will help guide its work, including exchanging research findings and pursuing consistent protections for firefighters.

A separate technology group will evaluate detection tools powered by artificial intelligence, satellite observation, autonomous equipment and protective gear with smart capabilities. Its work will include assessing performance and developing approaches to human supervision and technology governance.

Training discussions will also address battery fires, industrial hazards and the use of simulations to prepare crews for complex incidents.

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