In very recent times in Greece public disorder has increased over their collapsing economy, and the country has seen riots and deaths from smoke inhalation of trapped bank employees. As a result, Greece, has been the first country outside the UK to order the escape hood. "Elmon of Athens, an international military and police and NBC hardware supplier, has become our first international stockist and distributor," says Jeff Charlton of Hazmat Hood.

New Fire Safety Order regulations (471), just published, have placed specific liabilities on employers and duty holders regarding safe evacuation, as has the new British Standard and Guidelines CWA 16106. The publication of these regulations has meant a massive influx of orders, although many UK companies are unaware of their new liabilities or, indeed, benefits.

Jeff Charlton, principle consultant at Hazmat Hood says, "Even if people don t consider the low cost product essential, they should read about their new obligations."