State-of-the-art new mobilising system goes live across Scotland’s emergency control rooms

A major upgrade to Scotland’s emergency mobilising system has gone live, marking a significant step in how critical fire and rescue incidents are managed across the country. 

The first component of the New Mobilising System, called the Integrated Communication Control system (ICCS), delivered through a £30 million contract with Motorola Solutions, provides a modern, resilient telephony and radio communications platform.

It is now operational across the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) three Operations Control in Edinburgh, Johnstone, and Dundee, following a phased rollout and months of robust training and testing.

The new system improves how control rooms answer 999 calls, and how SFRS mobilises resources to help people in their time of need.

Jonathan Henderson is the SFRS’ Assistant Chief Officer. He said: “Our Operations Control staff handles some of the most challenging situations every day. This new ICCS platform gives them tools to help them work faster and with greater confidence. 

“Delivering the upgrade on time shows the strength of the partnership behind it, and ultimately it means the public benefits from a more resilient emergency response.” 

This phase of the project, which is part of the long-term Strategic Service Review Programme, has been delivered on time and to scope. The new system bringing more improved stability and resilience in the mobilisation of firefighters, supporting both the communities and our operational crews.

Last year, firefighters across Scotland attended more than 74,000 emergencies, each requiring one or more 999 calls. This new system will allow Operations Control staff to deal with day-to-day incidents effectively and efficiently.

During the visit to Edinburgh Operations Control on Wednesday, 7 January, Siobhian Brown MSP, Minister for Victims and Community Safety, said: “This modern mobilisation system, backed by record Scottish Government funding, enhances resilience, strengthens communication, and ensures that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service can reach those who need them as swiftly as possible.

"It gives control room firefighters the tools they need to make critical decisions quickly and effectively, helping keep communities across Scotland safe.

“I am grateful to all those who work in SFRS control rooms for their continued professionalism and dedication.”

Motorola Solutions welcomed the successful delivery of the project. 

Dave Shorland, U.K. and Ireland sales director, Motorola Solutions, said: “The control room lies at the heart of emergency response, and the staff who manage these high-pressure situations deserve modern, resilient technology to mobilise help exactly where it's needed.

“This new platform empowers call handlers to respond to 999 calls with greater speed and clarity. We're proud of our close collaboration with SFRS, defined by our shared dedication to helping to protect and save lives across communities in Scotland.”

With the system now live, the SFRS and Motorola Solutions will continue monitoring performance and supporting staff, while preparing for future development and optimisation work.