DASA Launches Initiative to Enhance Public Safety
Introduction: Innovating for Safer Spaces
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) has announced a new Themed Competition titled ‘Rapid Detection of Toxic Gases’. Funded by the Home Office, this competition offers up to £1.6 million for innovative solutions that can quickly detect toxic gases in busy spaces, ensuring public safety and security.
The Challenge: Detecting Toxic Gases in Crowded Areas
The rapid release of toxic gases in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces can happen accidentally or through malicious intent. The swift detection of such gases is crucial to prevent adverse health effects and ensure the safety of people in these environments. This competition aims to find technological solutions that can tackle this significant health, safety, and security challenge.
Key Dates and Funding Details
- Total Funding Available: £1.6 million for Phase 1, with a cap of £200,000 per proposal.
- Proposal Submission Deadline: Midday (GMT) on Thursday 28 March 2024.
- Informational Webinar: Scheduled for Wednesday 7 February 2024.
- 1-2-1 Webinar Sessions: Set for Wednesday 14 February and Thursday 22 February 2024.
What DASA is Looking For
DASA seeks innovative detection methods suitable for monitoring air quality in potentially busy spaces. Key aspects include early warning systems for unsafe toxic gas levels, estimating concentration levels, minimizing false alarms, quick identification, and integration potential with smart facility management systems.
Participating in the Competition
Launch Q&A Webinar: An opportunity to gain more insights into the challenge areas and proposal submission process. The webinar on 7 February 2024 will include a Q&A session.
1-2-1 Sessions: Applicants can register for 15-minute teleconference sessions on 14 February and 22 February 2024 to ask specific questions related to the competition.
Submitting a Proposal
Innovators with ideas for novel technologies that can provide early warnings for unsafe levels of toxic gases are encouraged to participate. The full competition document, available on DASA’s website, provides detailed information on the challenge and the submission process.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Enhanced Public Safety
This initiative by DASA, backed by the Home Office, is a significant step towards using innovative technology to enhance public safety. By addressing key defence and security challenges, this competition aims to create safer environments in potentially busy spaces across the UK.
Sources: THX News & Defence and Security Accelerator.
