Blackline Safety’s G8 safety wearable has received a 2026 Firehouse Innovation Award, giving the company consecutive wins after its EXO 8 area monitor was recognised last year.
The awards recognise technologies that advance firefighting and emergency response. G8 was selected for its ability to “improve situational awareness and support safer decision-making during complex incidents.”
Used with Blackline Live software, G8 combines gas detection, lone worker protection, real-time communication and live field data. It provides command teams with gas readings, alerts and firefighters’ locations, rather than relying solely on alarms sounded by a detector at the scene. This information can help teams coordinate responses and monitor crews.
Travis Rebello, Hazardous Materials Coordinator and Firefighter at New Bedford Fire Department in Massachusetts, described how remote alerts support his team:
“It’s G8’s remote capability — I now have alerts set to my phone, so when my guys go into an LEL environment or any type of high alarm, I immediately get notified,” said Travis Rebello, Hazardous Materials Coordinator and Firefighter, New Bedford Fire Department, Massachusetts. “And I’m on the phone with my dispatcher. What are they into? Do they need assistance? For situational awareness and firefighter safety, this has greatly increased our capability.”
The award comes as fire and hazmat organisations worldwide adopt Blackline’s connected safety technology. In April, the company reported 42% growth in its fire-hazmat customer base. G8 and Blackline Live also received 2026 Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Industrial Hygiene Awards in the IoT Connected Devices and Software categories, respectively.
Rebello said the technology’s role in firefighter safety is personal, as both of his sons work in the fire service. “Both of my sons work on fire. One works in the fire department with me, and one works in the next town over, so it’s not just my guys, my kids are here. I trust him with Blackline,” he said.
