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What is a Sealed Beam Fast-Inflation Shelter?

The I.C. Brindle Sealed Beam Fast-Inflation Emergency Shelter is a prepacked, rapid-deployment shelter, designed for emergency response and outdoor operations. The beams of the shelter are an airtight welded and glued frame made from heavy duty PVC. On completion, each shelter it is inflated and tested in our test facility for over 72hrs, Our Sealed beam shelters do not need a constant airflow once inflated and are a complete portable solution made to a commercial grade.

What Shelter Sizes are Available?

All our shelters are ‘made to order’ with an approximate lead time of 4 weeks from design to supply. Our most popular size of shelter is a 4m x 5m but we find Fire and Rescue Teams often prefer a smaller 4m x 3m or 3m x 3m unit whilst the military and humanitarian relief organisations prefer larger shelters of around 5m x 8. All shelters come with CAD drawings to support planning and customisation.

• • Smaller shelters like 3m x 3m, 3m x 4m, and 3m x 2m are commonly used by rapid-response units such as fire services, police, and forensic teams, especially in tight or remote locations. Mid-range sizes like 4m x 5m are suited to medical teams, airport responders, and fire and rescue services.
  • Larger shelters such as 5m x 8m are ideal for military field bases, triage centres, and humanitarian relief operations, offering space for extended use or multi-team deployment. 

Can I Order a Custom Shelter?

Yes. All of our shelters are made to order so adding custom details like organisations logos, window and door position and size or integrating the shelter into a welfare unit or scientific laboratory isn’t a problem! With all our shelters we will wok with you to create a product that is perfect for its intended use, providing a full set of CAD drawings prior to manufacturing for your approval. 

What Sectors or Applications Can Your Shelters Be Used In?

Our shelters are designed to suit a wide range of sectors and applications thanks to their versatile sizes and customizable features. Each shelter size and configuration is suited to specific needs, and we can customise features to fit your exact requirements. Examples include:

• Military operations and tactical deployments
• Medical and emergency triage units
• Fire rescue and incident command posts
• Police and forensic investigation sites
• Search and rescue missions
• Humanitarian aid and disaster relief
• Personnel protection in severe or inclement weather
• Stealth and covert tactical operations
• Mass accommodation and temporary housing

How Quickly Can the Shelter be Inflated and Fully Deployed?

Shelters can be fully deployed in under 5 minutes using an electric pump—no additional frame assembly required. The airtight sealed beam design provides full structural support once inflated. For even faster setup, a 6L, 8L or 12l 300bar BA cylinder can be used, inflating the shelter in as little as 1–2 minutes. ( Shelter inflation times are dependent on the size of the shelter with a 4m x 5m being inflated in 2-3 minutes using a 230v pump).

How Easy is it to Learn How to Unpack and Inflate, Deflate and then Pack the Shelter?

The Sealed Beam Fast-Inflation Shelter is designed for rapid setup in minutes with minimal training needed. Simply roll out the shelter, connect a pump, and inflate using a suitable pump/cylinder, repositioning is easy with grab handles and guy ropes. Packing down is straightforward using the reverse function on the pump—roll, secure, and store in the valise. 

Can the Shelter be Used Without Access to Mains Power?

Yes. The shelter can be inflated using a BA cylinder and high presscure hose, or a 12-volt battery-powered pump, making it ideal for remote or off-grid locations where mains power isn’t available, such as a field, or wilderness area. Optional generators can also be supplied for power needs on site.

What Inflation Options are Available?

We offer a variety of inflation and deflation pumps, including:

• 12V Electric Pump 
• 110V/230V Pumps
• Automatic pressure regulation pump 
• BA Cylinders, 6 litre, 8 litre and 12Litre (For use with a High-Pressure Hose and Regulator)  

 What Standard Features Come with Every Shelter?

Yes. All custom shelters retain our tried and tested core features as standard. Including our core components:

• Triple-layer window system with fly-mesh, Clear PVC Cover and Privacy Screen
• Large external vehicle flaps for securing the shelter to hard standing
• Safety chevrons at each entrance
• Connectable full-sized doors with smaller inset pedestrian door 
• Guy ropes, heavy-duty stakes, and full repair kit
• Clear PVC document pouch at each door
• Carry bag with handles
• Rain gutter system around doorways
• Service ports at each end
• Inflation/Deflation Valves, Overpressure Valve and pressure regulating valve 

How Small Can the Shelters be Packed? 

When deflated and rolled, our shelters pack down compactly for efficient storage and transport. Depending on the size and configuration, they are stored in durable bags or protective cases—typically small enough to fit in the back of a vehicle using a easy, two-man lift,  or be carried by two people to destination. Typical Packed Sizes are as follows:

Typical Packed Sizes are as Follows:

• • ICB33 (3x3m Shelter): 90 x 69 x 61 cm, 60kg
  • ICB34 (3x4m Shelter): 90 x 69 x 61 cm, 65kg
  • ICB44 (4x4m Shelter): 100 x 76 x 67 cm, 70kg
  • ICB45 (4x5m Shelter): 100 x 76 x 67 cm, 95kg 
  • ICB56 (5x6m Shelter): 110 x 80 x 74 cm, 140kg 
  • ICB58 (5x8m Shelter): 110 x 80 x 74 cm, 195kg 
  • ICB68 (6x8m Shelter): 120 x 80 x 74 cm, 225kg 

Are the Shelters Flame Retardant?

All of our shelters use the latest PU coated Nylon material, which is manufactured within Europe. This material is not only lighter than heavy canvas shelters which industries are now moving away from but it is also waterproof, water resistance and flame retardant. Features such as vehicle flaps for securing on hard standing and upper and lower guy ropes provide stability on softer ground. 

Can the Shelter Withstand Strong Weather?

Yes. The sealed beam design, with offset and reinforced beam joints, combined with the flame retardant canopy materials, gives your shelter excellent stability and resistance to wind, heavy rain, and temperature changes. Standard features such as guy ropes and vehicle flaps secure anchoring in challenging environments and ensure that your shelter stays strong against the elements, such as heavy wind and rain. This makes the shelter ideal for use in situations such as firefighting operations, disaster relief zones, military field bases, and remote medical setups.

How Does the Shelter Handle Pressure Changes from Temperature

The shelters are inflated ‘in house’ for a period of 72 hours before despatching, if the shelters are being used for longer terms the pressure regulating valve, which is fitted as standard, can be utilised with a pressure sensor pump, the pressure sensor pump can be set at the mbar required and will automatically regulate the pressure if the mbar falls below the pressure set.

Are the Shelters Connectable?

Yes, our shelters feature a modular design with full-sized zippered connectable doors. This allows you to join multiple units easily, creating larger operational spaces or separate zones tailored to your specific needs. The modular setup lets you be flexiable with your shelter layout. 

How Easily Can the Shelters be Moved Once Set Up?

Our shelters can be moved and repositioned easily because they are lightweight and built as a single-piece unit. The shelter’s outer canopy is securely fixed to the sealed beam frame with strong Velcro. Grab handles at the corners and along the base allow quick repositioning without deflation—ideal for rapid deployment and fast-moving situations.

How are Lighting and Heating Integrated into the Shelter?

The shelter includes internal ‘D’ rings on the beams for attaching lighting, heaters, or room dividers. Service ports at either end allow for safe, sealed entry of power cables, ducting, or heating hoses. Optional accessories like internal lighting kits, heaters, and generators can be supplied as part of a fully configured package—ready to deploy out of the box for your shelter. 

Do you Provide Drawings Prior Manufacturing? 

Yes. All confirmed orders receive a set of CAD drawings prior to the manufacturing process for your approval, this ensures that we will be manufacturing, and you will be receiving the exact solution you require. 

What is the Lead Time for a Standard and Customised Shelter?

From start to finish you can expect your shelter to take approximately 4 weeks to despatch from the design approval 

What is an immersion suit used for?

An immersion suit is designed to protect the wearer from the effects of accidental immersion in water, helping reduce heat loss and delay hypothermia. Also known as an abandonment suit, it supports survival and recovery following an emergency at sea.

I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd supplies immersion suits for commercial marine applications, including insulated SOLAS-approved models and non-insulated options.

Do immersion suits need to be SOLAS approved?

Where SOLAS requirements apply, immersion suits must meet the relevant approval requirements for their intended use. The specific equipment required depends on the vessel, its operation and applicable flag-state regulations.

I.C. Brindle supplies SOLAS and MED-approved immersion suits, including the Proteus, Mullion MAS III and Neptune models, alongside non-insulated alternatives.

What other approvals do immersion suits carry?

Immersion suit approvals vary by model and intended application. In addition to SOLAS and MED approval, certain marine safety equipment may carry UK Marine Equipment Regulations (MER) approval and the Red Ensign mark, where applicable.

I.C. Brindle supplies immersion suits with different approval specifications. Check the individual product listing and certification documentation to confirm the approvals held by each model.

What is the difference between insulated and non-insulated immersion suits?

Insulated immersion suits are designed to provide thermal protection during cold-water immersion. Non-insulated suits provide immersion protection without the same level of thermal insulation and are intended for applications where the relevant approval and operating conditions permit their use.

The correct type depends on the vessel's requirements, expected water temperatures and applicable regulations. Always check the individual product specification and approval documentation before ordering.

Is there a difference between an immersion suit and a survival suit?

Immersion suit and survival suit are terms often used to describe protective suits intended for emergencies at sea. However, the terminology alone does not confirm a suit's approval, insulation level or performance.

When selecting a suit, check its technical specification, certification and intended application to ensure it meets the vessel's requirements.

Are immersion suits suitable for offshore installations and workboats?

Immersion suit requirements depend on the vessel or installation, its operating conditions and the applicable safety regulations. The required approval and level of thermal protection may vary by application.

I.C. Brindle supplies immersion suits for commercial marine use, including SOLAS-approved and non-insulated options. Check the individual product specification and relevant requirements before selecting a suit.

How do I choose the correct immersion suit?

The correct immersion suit depends on the vessel's requirements, operating environment, applicable regulations and the protection required. Consider the approval, insulation, size, glove configuration and compatibility with other safety equipment.

I.C. Brindle supplies models including the Proteus, Mullion MAS III, Neptune and Intrepid Mk8. Compare the specifications and certification for each model before ordering.

How do I choose the correct immersion suit size?

The correct size depends on the manufacturer's sizing information, including the wearer's height and weight. A suitable fit is important for effective protection and for putting the suit on correctly in an emergency.

I.C. Brindle supplies immersion suits in a range of sizes, including universal and extra-large options on selected models. Check the size chart on the relevant product page before ordering.

Do immersion suits need to be worn with a lifejacket?

Some immersion suits are designed to be worn with a compatible, approved lifejacket, while others may have integrated buoyancy features. The correct arrangement depends on the suit's design and approval.

For example, the SOLAS Proteus immersion suit is specified for use with a compatible SOLAS/MED-approved lifejacket. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and check compatibility before use.

How quickly should an immersion suit be put on?

SOLAS-approved immersion suits are subject to requirements for donning within two minutes, including any associated clothing or lifejacket where required by the applicable standard.

Wearers should familiarise themselves with the specific suit and practise donning it in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and vessel procedures.

How long does an immersion suit provide protection in water?

Protection time depends on the suit's design, insulation, approval standard and the conditions of immersion. The stated performance of an insulated suit may differ from that of a non-insulated model. For example, I.C. Brindle's SOLAS Proteus immersion suit specifies up to 6 hours of protection for insulated suits in water above 0°C, compared with up to 1 hour for uninsulated suits in water above 5°C.

Check the individual product specifications for information on thermal protection and approved performance. These ratings should not be treated as a guarantee of survival time, which also depends on environmental conditions and the wearer.

Are immersion suits available with different glove types?

Yes. I.C. Brindle supplies Neptune immersion suit options with different glove configurations, including neoprene gloves and rubber gloves.

The main difference is the glove material. Check the individual product specifications to confirm the required configuration for your intended application.

Can immersion suits be used more than once?

Many immersion suits are designed for repeated use, provided they remain in suitable condition and are maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Following use, the suit should be checked for damage, contamination and any faults that could affect its performance.

If a suit has been damaged or used in an emergency, follow the manufacturer's guidance on cleaning, inspection, testing and return to service.

How often should an immersion suit be inspected?

Immersion suits should be inspected at the intervals required by applicable regulations, the manufacturer's instructions and the vessel's maintenance procedures. Routine checks should look for visible damage, deterioration, damaged seals, zip faults and problems with accessories or packaging.

SOLAS specifies periodic inspection requirements for life-saving appliances. Follow the applicable requirements for the particular suit and record inspections as required by the vessel's procedures.

Do immersion suits need to be tested after purchase?

Immersion suits must be inspected, maintained and, where required, tested in accordance with applicable regulations and the manufacturer's instructions. Requirements depend on the suit's model, approval and intended use.

Vessel operators should maintain appropriate inspection and servicing records and use an authorised service provider where required.

How often should immersion suits be serviced?

Servicing intervals depend on the suit's manufacturer, model, approval and applicable requirements. Operators should follow the manufacturer's servicing instructions and the regulations applicable to their vessel, using an authorised service provider where required.

Check the suit's documentation for the correct servicing schedule rather than applying one interval to every model.

Can immersion suits be repaired if they are damaged?

Do not assume that a damaged immersion suit can be repaired safely or returned to service without assessment. Damage to seams, seals, zips or other components may affect the suit's performance and approval.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and seek advice from an authorised service provider. Replace the suit if required by the manufacturer or applicable requirements.

How should immersion suits be stored?

Immersion suits should be stored in their designated bags or containers, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Storage arrangements should protect them from damage, contamination and conditions that could cause deterioration, while keeping them accessible for emergency use.

Ensure the stowage location and packaging allow the suit to be retrieved promptly when needed.

What documentation is supplied with an immersion suit?

Documentation varies by model but may include technical datasheets, approval certificates and other manufacturer information. These documents help confirm the suit's specification, intended use and applicable approvals.

I.C. Brindle provides supporting documentation for selected products on their product pages, such as datasheets and certifications where applicable. Check the relevant listing or contact us if you require specific certificates for procurement or vessel compliance records.

Do you supply immersion suits for commercial vessels?

Yes. I.C. Brindle supplies a range of immersion suits for commercial marine applications, including insulated SOLAS-approved suits and non-insulated models. Options include the Proteus, Mullion MAS III, Neptune and Intrepid Mk8.

Compare each model's specification, sizing and approval documentation to identify the appropriate suit for your vessel. If you need help selecting a model, contact I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd.