IAFC launches task force in response to FEMA reform

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

US FEMA strategy overhaul under presidential orders

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has confirmed that it has formed a task force to examine the Trump administration’s restructuring plans for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

This development follows the issuance of Executive Order 14180, which was signed on 24 January and establishes a 20-member Council to assess FEMA.

The council is chaired by the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security.

It is required to deliver its findings 180 days after its first public meeting.

The council held its first meeting on 20 May.

The IAFC also cited the 18 March signing of Executive Order 14239.

That order mandates a new National Resilience Strategy and calls for changes to key homeland security directives, including HSPD-5 and PPD-8.

These policy changes, according to the IAFC, could directly affect fire and emergency services.

IAFC outlines key concerns and review scope

The IAFC reported that Fire Chief Josh Waldo, its President and Board Chair, appointed a dedicated task force to provide formal recommendations to the federal government on the implications of its proposals for local emergency services.

Retired Chief Jim Schwartz, former fire chief of the Arlington County Fire Department and former chair of the IAFC Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee, was named as the task force lead.

The IAFC confirmed that Schwartz will oversee a 10-person team responsible for evaluating the potential impact on fire departments and emergency medical services.

The organisation explained that the task force will also engage directly with the newly formed FEMA Review Council and other federal officials to represent the views of fire and rescue services.

Transition from all-hazards to risk-based response

The IAFC noted that the Trump administration is proposing a shift away from an all-hazards response model toward a risk-based approach.

This change affects federal support structures such as FEMA’s Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and homeland security preparedness policies.

The administration has committed to producing a National Critical Infrastructure Policy and National Risk Register within 240 days, according to the IAFC.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is also tasked with updating core preparedness policies and documents within the same timeframe.

The IAFC stated that the task force will evaluate how these policy changes could affect current fire service operations.

This includes considerations for grants, training at the National Fire Academy, and operational readiness for events such as hazardous materials incidents and wildfires.

Task force to provide ongoing updates

The IAFC said the task force will focus on several key questions.

These include how FEMA can better serve local fire departments and what parts of the existing homeland security framework should be retained or revised.

It will also consider what steps local agencies should take in response to federal changes.

The IAFC stated that the review process will include analysis of how potential policy shifts could alter training, funding, and federal coordination practices.

The organisation confirmed that the task force will continue to monitor developments.

It will report regularly to IAFC members about the progress of discussions in Washington.

IAFC launches task force in response to FEMA reform: Summary

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has launched a task force in response to proposed changes to FEMA.

The task force was created after President Trump signed Executive Orders 14180 and 14239 in January and March 2025.

Executive Order 14180 established a FEMA Review Council.

The council held its first public meeting on 20 May.

Executive Order 14239 instructs the creation of a National Resilience Strategy and a National Risk Register.

The IAFC task force is led by Chief Jim Schwartz (Ret.).

The task force includes 10 members.

The group will assess how the changes affect fire and EMS services.

The task force will provide recommendations to the federal government and the FEMA Review Council.

The IAFC said the review will cover FEMA operations, federal response policy, and local preparedness.

The Department of Homeland Security is required to revise emergency support and preparedness policies within 240 days.

The IAFC will provide regular updates to its members throughout the process.

Technical insight at the forefront: IFE’s International President outlines aims for inaugural technical fire conference

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsEventsFire Engineering

The IFE International President’s Technical Conference will support collaboration, knowledge exchange and lobby for fire safety improvement

Fire professionals are under growing pressure to respond to emerging risks, navigate regulatory change and harness innovation. In this context, the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is launching its International President’s Technical Conference; a two-day technical programme focused on the future of fire safety.

Book tickets for the technical conference here

IFSJ spoke to Trent Fearnley, the IFE’s International President, about what attendees can expect and why this event is a key date for the global fire safety community.

Can you tell us a bit about the International President’s Technical Conference?

The sector is facing fast-moving challenges, battery technologies, façade performance, wildfires, and sustainable construction. We need high-quality technical spaces to share ideas and solutions, and this conference is a direct response to that demand, and part of our wider commitment under the IFE strategy to support continuous learning and sector improvement.

This year’s theme is ‘Taking the Next Steps: A Collaborative Path to a Fire Safe Future’. What does that represent?

It reflects the fact that fire safety isn’t something achieved in isolation, and whether you’re a fire engineer, building control officer, operational commander or academic, our progress depends on collaboration. The theme also recognises how far we’ve come, particularly with regulatory reform and new competencies, but that there’s still more to do. This conference is about coming together to take those next steps as a sector.

What’s in store on the programme?

There’s a strong and diverse technical line-up across both days. Topics include façade testing methodology, lithium battery risks, sustainable construction vs fire safety, evacuation modelling, fire strategies and updates from both regulators and UK fire and rescue services. We’ve also got key insights from academia and case studies that will resonate with delegates from around the world.

How does this differ from other IFE events?

This conference is very focused on technical depth and professional exchange. It’s built for people who want to dig into the issues, hear directly from subject matter experts, and go away with knowledge they can apply. It complements our broader member events and CPD activities but stands out for its global scope and strong fire engineering focus which will hopefully satisfy the technical needs of fire engineers and operational fire personnel.

How is the IFE ensuring the content is globally relevant?

Drawing on his research in South Africa, our keynote address is providing an international perspective on sustainability and fire safety.  Other topics have origins in first principles fire engineering and therefore are not national code specific, such as the use of computer fire models for evacuation or structural fire engineering and car park loading calculations. By learning from each other, we can raise global standards and create safer outcomes worldwide.

Who would benefit from attending, and how can people book?

Anyone working in fire safety, engineering, building control, regulation or operational risk will find value here, and all sessions are CPD-accredited. The event takes place 18-19 June 2025 at the University of Lancashire (UCLan). You can register and view the full programme at https://www.ife.org.uk/Home/Events-and-resources/Events/Event-Details/eventDateID/1097

NFPA Show Preview: Learning, leading and Las Vegas 

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

From public outreach to system design, NFPA C&E 2025 addresses the full lifecycle of safety planning with technical guidance, expert sessions and peer-reviewed practice updates 

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Conference & Expo is returning to Las Vegas in 2025, bringing together thousands of professionals committed to advancing fire and life safety. Taking place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center from June 16 to 18, with a Technical Meeting to follow on June 19 and 20, the event provides a platform for practical education, peer exchange and the latest updates in codes, standards and technology. 

Hosted annually, the NFPA Conference & Expo draws attendees from a wide cross-section of roles, including fire safety engineers, emergency responders, facility managers, code enforcers, government officials and industry researchers. It is widely regarded as a focal point in the safety calendar for those involved in preventing fires, managing risks and ensuring compliance across the built environment. 

Set in one of the most accessible and high-capacity venues in the U.S., the 2025 event is expected to match the scale of previous years, delivering a full programme that spans education sessions, networking opportunities and a technology-focused exhibition.

Across the three main days of the conference, attendees will be able to choose from over 130 education sessions covering key industry sectors, ranging from building safety and fire protection systems to electrical safety, emergency response and community risk reduction. 

The event officially begins on Monday, June 16, with registration opening in the morning and continuing throughout the day. The General Session scheduled from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. will serve as a major gathering point for attendees, featuring keynote speakers and updates from NFPA leadership. From that point onward, the agenda is filled with sessions and activities that will run through Wednesday afternoon, followed by the two-day Technical Meeting, where proposed changes to the NFPA codes and standards are debated and voted upon by eligible attendees. 

Diverse learning tracks across disciplines 

For many attendees, the educational programme is the core attraction of the event. Across a packed schedule, sessions are organised by topic and professional discipline to ensure that content is accessible and relevant to attendees’ specific roles and responsibilities.  

In the area of building and life safety, sessions will cover emerging risks in modern construction materials, occupant protection strategies and compliance with standards such as the NFPA 101® Life Safety Code®. One session, titled “Mastering Life Safety Plans for Healthcare Facilities,” offers a comprehensive overview of the application of NFPA 101® in complex environments. Another, “Navigating Challenges in Distribution: Warehouse Development, Design and Inspections,” is expected to draw interest from those managing large commercial and industrial spaces. 

Connecting codes to practice 

In the electrical safety stream, NFPA 70®, better known as the National Electrical Code® (NEC®), will be a central theme, with dedicated sessions addressing updates, case studies and implementation practices. Technical talks such as “Lightning Protection Systems – Updates to the 2026 Edition of NFPA 780” and “Applying NFPA 70B & 70E to Electrical Installations, Maintenance and Modernization” will provide insight into how standards are evolving to accommodate both legacy infrastructure and new technologies. 

Community risk reduction (CRR) will also feature prominently in the programme, with a series of sessions examining how fire departments, municipal leaders and public safety advocates are approaching prevention. Presentations like “Measuring the Call That Didn’t Happen: Translating CRR Impacts to Outcomes” and “Building Impactful CRR Teams: A Framework for Success” reflect a growing emphasis on proactive risk mitigation strategies. Another session, “The Science of CRR 101,” will look at the methodologies underpinning today’s prevention programmes and risk assessment tools such as CRAIG 1300®. 

For emergency response professionals, the Conference & Expo provides opportunities to explore contemporary challenges through focused discussions and hands-on case reviews. Presentations like “Guardians of the Flames: Protecting Our Firefighters” and “Gearing Up – A Review of PPE for Female Firefighters” will address issues related to safety, equipment design and operational planning.  

The response to modern threats such as lithium-ion battery fires and active shooter incidents will also be addressed through technical sessions and panel discussions. The session “NFPA 3000 and the Red Cross Response to the Lewiston Mass Casualty Incident” offers a particularly timely analysis of coordinated multi-agency response during crises. 

The fire protection systems track will look at developments in detection, suppression and maintenance standards, with sessions geared toward engineers, designers and inspectors. Presentations like “NFPA 25–2026: Five Changes You Need to Know” and “Simplifying Fire Alarm Wiring and Performance Requirements” will help attendees stay current with recent and upcoming revisions to key documents. New topics, such as hybrid fire extinguishing systems under NFPA 770, are also included in the line-up, reflecting the increased diversity of systems being deployed in modern buildings. 

Innovation and interaction on the expo floor 

Another highlight of the event is the expansive Expo, which opens on the afternoon of June 16 and continues through to June 18. The exhibition offers attendees the opportunity to interact with product manufacturers, solution providers and service specialists across all disciplines.  

Spread across a large floor area, the Expo includes technology showcases, vendor demonstrations and exhibitor theatre presentations. Each day of the exhibition has set opening hours, beginning with a shorter session on Monday afternoon and extending into fuller days on Tuesday and Wednesday. The exhibition includes companies demonstrating new approaches to detection and suppression, updates in PPE, digital tools for incident reporting and analytics and innovations in power supply and battery safety. 

Education continues on the floor with the NFPA Products & Solutions sessions, which provide code-specific guidance and insight from the association’s technical team. These drop-in presentations offer attendees opportunities to ask questions and gather updates directly from subject matter experts. 

Running concurrently with the main conference is the NFPA Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE), a three-day programme focused on fire and life safety education in community settings. SOPE includes eight education sessions tailored to outreach professionals, including fire prevention officers and public health educators.  

A platform to shape future standards 

The final segment of the event is the Technical Meeting, scheduled for June 19 and 20. While the full agenda will be confirmed in April 2025, this meeting allows eligible participants to vote on proposed changes to NFPA’s codes and standards. It is a vital component of the association’s consensus process and attracts stakeholders from across the safety ecosystem.  

By participating in the Technical Meeting, attendees are able to shape the regulatory and operational standards that govern the fire and life safety industry. This component of the programme reinforces the association’s commitment to transparency, stakeholder input and consensus-driven development of codes. 

As the event approaches, NFPA will continue to release updates on session speakers, exhibitor lists and onsite logistics. The 2025 edition of the Conference & Expo promises a rich and varied experience, with structured opportunities for technical education, peer learning and hands-on interaction with safety technologies. 

The International Fire and Safety Journal team will be at the NFPA Conference & Expo on stand Stand #1554. 

This article was originally published in the May 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here. 

AI and data tools essential for modern fire services, says FEU

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

AI in European fire services must be expanded, says FEU

The Federation of EUropean fire officers (FEU) has stated that fire and rescue services should make greater use of data and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve performance, efficiency and preparedness.

According to FEU, its recent seminar on data-driven fire and rescue services highlighted the potential for digital tools to support decision-making, resource allocation and resilience-building across European emergency response systems.

The organisation acknowledged that the effective use of such tools depends on addressing barriers around data quality, interoperability, and cybersecurity.

FEU issues digital integration guidance

FEU said it is committed to supporting fire and rescue services with clearer guidance on the effective use of data tools and systems.

It stated that its work will include the promotion of good practices in operational settings and efforts to help organisations manage the transition to digital systems.

The organisation explained that cooperation between fire services, researchers and technology suppliers is needed to ensure future systems are practical and scalable.

Data protection and cyber threats addressed

FEU reported that any adoption of AI or data tools must include robust protections for system integrity and personal data.

The organisation said that maintaining cybersecurity is essential to prevent unauthorised access and ensure continuity of service.

It added that ethical standards and privacy requirements must be upheld as AI technologies are introduced into fire service operations.

FEU to support sector-wide innovation

FEU stated that it plans to continue leading coordination efforts aimed at making fire services more effective and better equipped to handle future challenges.

The organisation said that improving digital uptake across the sector requires collaborative approaches and shared knowledge.

It concluded that advancing AI adoption in emergency response will depend on providing clear, actionable recommendations supported by technical expertise.

AI and data tools essential for modern fire services, FEU says: Summary

The Federation of EUropean fire officers (FEU) has called for greater use of AI and data in fire and rescue services.

FEU made the call during its seminar on data-driven fire and rescue services.

The organisation said AI can support decision-making, improve efficiency and build resilience.

It noted that challenges include data quality, cybersecurity, and system compatibility.

FEU committed to promoting good practice in operational data use.

It will work with emergency services, researchers and technology providers.

The organisation plans to issue recommendations on effective digital tool adoption.

It said robust cybersecurity measures are essential.

FEU stated it will continue supporting innovation and future preparedness in fire services.

FIA reflects on first Fire Safety Summit in Gibraltar

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Industry leaders gather for FIA’s first Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar

The Fire Industry Association has reported that fire safety professionals convened for the first Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar on 15 May 2025.

The event took place on the Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel and was hosted by the FIA.

According to the FIA, the summit included expert talks, panel discussions and exhibitions designed to support professional development and knowledge sharing in the sector.

Ian Moore OBE, Chief Executive Officer of the FIA, opened the event by welcoming attendees and stating the Association’s aim to strengthen competency and cooperation in the sector.

Speakers included Colin Ramirez, Chief Fire Officer at Gibraltar Fire and Rescue, and Sir Ken Knight, former Government Chief Fire Adviser for England.

Sessions covered a range of issues including local fire risk management, European standards updates and learning from incidents such as Grenfell.

Panel discussion focuses on Gibraltar’s unique fire safety context

The Fire Industry Association reported that a panel session was held during the summit to discuss specific challenges related to Gibraltar’s fire sector.

According to the FIA, the session featured input from government representatives, private sector experts and technical professionals.

It noted that participants addressed issues including the geographical constraints of Gibraltar, regulatory expectations and coordination between agencies.

The organisation stated that delegates shared operational experiences and discussed how international developments could inform local improvements.

Speakers also highlighted how fire safety competencies can be strengthened across all parts of the fire industry, regardless of jurisdiction.

Exhibitors demonstrate products and services to attendees

The Fire Industry Association confirmed that the Fire Safety Summit included a dedicated exhibition space featuring companies from the fire sector.

According to the FIA, exhibitors included Aico, AJ Sheriff Electrical, Britannia Fire, C-TEC, The Fire Door Inspectors and Hyfire.

These companies presented their latest products and services to attendees.

The FIA said this part of the event allowed delegates to ask questions, explore current technologies and better understand the application of new fire safety tools.

It explained that exhibitors were available throughout the day to provide live demonstrations and technical support.

FIA thanks contributors and reflects on future opportunities

The Fire Industry Association thanked everyone involved in organising and contributing to the summit.

The FIA named its guest speakers as Ian Moore OBE, Sir Ken Knight, Colin Ramirez, Andy Spence, Alan Elder, Alan Wheal and Simon Sheldon.

The organisation stated that attendees contributed meaningfully through questions, discussions and shared experiences.

It said the summit demonstrated the value of in-person events for the fire industry and supported future knowledge exchange.

The FIA confirmed that it intends to build on this first summit to continue raising standards and supporting professional development.

Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar 2025 reviewed by FIA: Summary

The Fire Industry Association hosted the first Fire Safety Summit Gibraltar on 15 May 2025.

The event took place on board the Sunborn Gibraltar Hotel.

It included keynote speeches, a panel discussion and an exhibition.

Speakers included Ian Moore OBE, Colin Ramirez and Sir Ken Knight.

The summit addressed local and international fire safety topics.

It featured companies including Aico, Britannia Fire and Hyfire.

Delegates explored regulatory changes, incident responses and emerging technologies.

The FIA confirmed the event’s aim was to support learning and competence.

It thanked attendees and speakers for their participation.

The organisation stated it will build on the event’s momentum in future.

New group aims to improve fire safety at UK sports grounds

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsSafety

Stakeholders from across UK sports venues form new fire safety group

The Fire Sector Confederation (FSC) has reported that a new working group focused on improving fire safety at sports grounds has been launched.

The Sports Ground Special Interest (Fire Safety) Network held its first meeting recently, bringing together nearly 40 participants from a range of UK venues and organisations.

The group is chaired by Paul Brunt, Fire Safety Manager at Manchester United Football Club, and includes representation from fire officers, suppliers, fire safety professionals, stadium operators and local authorities.

Initiative developed through months of planning by industry leaders

According to the FSC, the initiative was the result of planning by its Executive Director, Steve McGuirk, in collaboration with Paul Brunt and Tim Burgin of the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA).

The network is designed to support the sharing of expertise and knowledge across different types of sports grounds.

McGuirk said: “We are delighted that this special interest network is now up and running, providing a unique platform for professionals with an interest in sports ground safety to come together to focus on developing guidance, influencing standards and improving communication to prevent fires in sports venues.”

He added that the work of the group would contribute to wider industry forums including the National Fire Safety Strategy Board and Fire Congress.

Platform to develop guidance and address safety challenges

Brunt stated that he was pleased with the level of engagement from clubs across multiple sports.

Paul Brunt said: “This is an important milestone in our drive to improving fire safety across all sports grounds in the UK and I am honoured to be the inaugural chair.

“The initial response has been incredibly positive with enthusiastic participation from football, rugby and cricket clubs across the country.

“It is a unique platform to share best practice and tackle challenges collaboratively so that we ultimately inform the best possible safety standards.”

Group to support review of sports ground fire safety post-Grenfell

Tim Burgin of the SGSA explained that the network would play a part in broader fire safety reviews underway following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Tim Burgin said: “The formation of this group of stakeholders will play a significant role in the review of fire safety in sports grounds prompted by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

“It brings together experts from across the country whose collaboration will be potentially significant in shaping the new Green Guide.”

According to the FSC, participants currently include representatives from Premier League and EFL clubs, rugby union and rugby league, horseracing, cricket, and government fire safety advisors.

Meetings will continue regularly and the group is open to new participants.

New group aims to improve fire safety at UK sports grounds: Summary

The Fire Sector Confederation has launched a new group to improve fire safety at sports venues in the UK.

The group is called the Sports Ground Special Interest (Fire Safety) Network.

Its inaugural meeting included nearly 40 stakeholders.

Paul Brunt, Fire Safety Manager at Manchester United Football Club, chairs the group.

Steve McGuirk of the FSC helped establish the initiative with Paul Brunt and Tim Burgin of the SGSA.

The group includes fire safety officers, equipment providers, stadium operators and public authorities.

It will support policy development through the National Fire Safety Strategy Board and Fire Congress.

The SGSA said the group’s input will support the review of fire safety guidance following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Experts from football, rugby, cricket, horseracing and government are currently involved.

The FSC invites additional stakeholders to contact the group via email.

FBU challenges proposed shift changes in Mid and West Wales

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Firefighters oppose 12-hour shift plans

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has reported that firefighters in Mid and West Wales are campaigning against proposed shift pattern changes, which would involve the introduction of 12-hour shifts.

According to the FBU, more than 200 people, including firefighters and community supporters, gathered at the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service headquarters in March to voice opposition.

The union explained that over 4,000 people have signed a petition rejecting the proposed changes and that further industrial action is being considered.

Union warns of impact on firefighter retention

Tom Wass, Mid and West Wales FBU brigade organiser, said firefighters are worried about the long-term consequences of the changes on their ability to stay in the profession.

Wass said: “Hardworking firefighters fear that they will be forced to leave the profession.”

He added: “Concerns raised around the financial cost and lack of availability of 12-hour childcare are being ignored by management.”

The union explained that its local branches are meeting to decide the next steps in the campaign, including potential industrial action.

Culture review and leadership concerns raised

The FBU reported that concerns extend beyond shift patterns, with criticism directed at senior management practices.

Union representatives stated that claims of bullying and nepotism, which were detailed in a culture review published in January, have not been adequately addressed.

They argue that instead of acting on cultural concerns, management has prioritised operational changes.

FBU calls for accountability from senior leaders

FBU regional secretary for Wales Duncan Stewart-Ball said the organisation expects leadership to take responsibility for staff welfare and workplace standards.

Stewart-Ball said: “The fire authority must start listening to firefighters and holding the chief fire officer and senior management to account.”

The FBU added that the campaign would continue until the shift proposals and wider organisational issues are fully reviewed.

FBU challenges proposed shift changes in Mid and West Wales: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has reported that firefighters in Mid and West Wales are campaigning against a proposal to change to 12-hour shifts.

More than 200 people attended a protest at the fire service headquarters in March.

Over 4,000 people have signed a petition opposing the proposed changes.

Tom Wass, Mid and West Wales FBU brigade organiser, said that firefighters fear the changes may force them out of the profession.

Wass also said the financial and childcare challenges of longer shifts are being overlooked.

The FBU said that local branches are meeting to discuss industrial action.

The union reported that members are also concerned about bullying and nepotism detailed in a January culture review.

Duncan Stewart-Ball, FBU regional secretary for Wales, said the fire authority must hold senior management to account.

The FBU said it would continue its campaign against the changes.

FIA and Mates in Mind launch mental health support for UK fire safety sector

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

New UK partnership to provide mental health tools for fire safety sector

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced a new collaboration with mental health charity Mates in Mind to address wellbeing in the fire safety workforce.

According to the FIA, the partnership was launched to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, which runs from 12 to 18 May and carries the theme of ‘Community’.

The FIA explained that the initiative will provide its members with access to mental health resources, including e-learning modules, guidance materials, and a text support service.

Mates in Mind to deliver mental health training and support

The FIA stated that Mates in Mind will provide tailored programmes and guidance across its membership network.

Mates in Mind is a UK-based mental health charity that works with organisations to reduce stigma and improve understanding of mental wellbeing in the workplace.

Sam Downie, Managing Director at Mates in Mind, said:
“We’re thrilled to be working alongside the FIA.”

“By bringing our tailored support and guidance to such a vital sector, we’re helping to ensure that mental wellbeing is embedded in every layer of workplace culture.”

The FIA said the aim of the programme is to embed awareness into day-to-day operations and create long-term cultural change.

Health and Safety Executive figures show impact of mental ill health

Data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) shows that in 2023/24, stress, depression and anxiety made up 46% of all reported work-related ill health cases.

According to HSE, these issues accounted for 55% of all working days lost to ill health in the same period.

The FIA said these statistics provide context for the need to increase proactive mental health measures within fire protection organisations.

Programme encourages open conversations and community support

The FIA explained that its collaboration with Mates in Mind reflects a commitment to supporting people at every level of the profession.

Steve Simper, FIA Mental Health Champion and Trainer, said:
“Our people are our greatest strength.”

“Together with Mates in Mind, we are creating safe spaces where individuals feel supported to speak up, seek help, and build resilience.”

The association added that it encourages all members to take part in the available programmes and services.

FIA and Mates in Mind launch mental health support for UK fire safety sector: Summary

The Fire Industry Association has partnered with Mates in Mind to support mental health in the UK fire safety sector.

The announcement coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025.

The theme for the week is ‘Community’.

The FIA will provide its members with mental health training, downloadable resources, and access to a support text line.

Mates in Mind will deliver tailored content and guidance for fire safety professionals.

HSE data from 2023/24 showed 46% of work-related ill health cases were due to stress, depression or anxiety.

These cases resulted in 55% of all working days lost in the period.

Sam Downie of Mates in Mind said the partnership will embed wellbeing into workplace culture.

Steve Simper of the FIA said the aim is to create safe spaces for open conversation.

The FIA encouraged its members to participate in the programme.

Sharon McClure named Chair of Association for Specialist Fire Protection

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPassivePeople

Leadership transition announced by ASFP

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has confirmed the appointment of Sharon McClure as its new Chair, succeeding Clive Miles.

Clive Miles stepped down following a two-year term in which the organisation expanded its influence and membership.

Key developments during his tenure included the launch of the ASFP Office & Academy, new member workshops, and the formation of the ASFP Young Leaders Group.

Progress under Clive Miles’ tenure

ASFP reported that Clive Miles’ time as Chair focused on skills development, innovation, and digital growth within the sector.

The association explained that its increased involvement in cross-sector initiatives included contributions to the Industry Competence Steering Group and the signing of the Conflict Avoidance Pledge.

Clive Miles said: “Two years ago, I spoke of the need to embrace innovation, skills development and digital transformation.

“It’s an absolute honour to take on this role, especially in our 50th year.

“But with this honour comes a great sense of responsibility.”

Sharon McClure sets out strategic direction

In her first address as Chair, Sharon McClure set out intentions to increase collaboration across the construction industry and reaffirm the role of passive fire protection.

McClure stated: “The construction industry is too often driven by conflicting priorities.

“We must rise above commercial pressures and fragmented responsibilities.

“It’s time for passive fire protection to become a unifying force for safety, integrity, and long-term value in the built environment.”

The ASFP noted that Sharon’s appointment aligns with its goals to strengthen fire protection competence and engage stakeholders more widely.

Support from new Vice Chair Jamie O’Hagan

The ASFP has also named Jamie O’Hagan, of Structural Fireproofing Systems, as Vice Chair.

The organisation said Jamie brings more than 30 years of experience in fire protection, covering both technical and practical aspects of the sector.

The leadership team is expected to continue supporting ASFP’s engagement with industry and regulatory bodies.

Mike Ward, ASFP Managing Director, commented on the transition: “Clive has been the steady hand and driving force behind so much of our recent progress.

“His commitment to collaboration, innovation, and member value has set a strong foundation for the future.”

Sharon McClure named Chair of Association for Specialist Fire Protection: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection has named Sharon McClure as its new Chair.

She succeeds Clive Miles, who served from 2023 to 2025.

Miles’ tenure included the launch of the ASFP Office & Academy.

Other developments included the Young Leaders Group and expanded member engagement.

The ASFP took part in the Industry Competence Steering Group during this time.

The Conflict Avoidance Pledge was also signed by the organisation.

McClure called for better cross-industry collaboration on building safety.

She said passive fire protection must be treated as essential, not secondary.

Jamie O’Hagan has been appointed Vice Chair.

He brings three decades of fire protection experience.

Mike Ward praised Clive Miles’ contribution as Chair.

The ASFP stated the new leadership reflects its continued development.

APS appoints Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO to support building safety strategy

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Appointment strengthens APS leadership in UK building safety policy

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has announced that Sofie Hooper has been appointed as Deputy CEO, according to a statement published by APS.

Hooper previously served as Head of Policy and Research at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), an international membership body representing over 11,500 professionals.

APS stated that Hooper’s appointment is effective immediately and will support the organisation’s focus on competence, policy development and training within the building safety sector.

Sofie Hooper brings experience in UK and EU public policy

APS reported that Hooper has spent a large part of her career as a Public Policy Advisor, with roles focused on both UK and EU-level policymaking.

While at IWFM, she co-authored the report Safer people, safer homes: Building Safety Management, which APS said played a role in shaping the post-Grenfell legislative environment.

APS stated that Hooper regularly engaged with the Building Safety Regulator, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and other policy bodies.

The organisation added that Hooper contributed to the integration of the Building Safety Alliance into early Parliamentary and Government documents ahead of the Building Safety Act 2022.

New Deputy CEO role to support APS strategic development

According to APS, the Deputy CEO position has been newly created to provide additional senior-level support as the organisation develops its policy and training strategy.

Hooper will report to CEO Andrew Leslie.

Her responsibilities will include leading on the APS competence and training schemes, contributing to policy development, and engaging with other professional bodies and business partners.

APS stated that the new role is designed to enhance the organisation’s capability to deliver on its strategic aims and meet increasing demand for expertise in building and fire regulations across the UK’s four nations.

Leadership responses to the appointment

Sofie Hooper said: “For three decades, APS has been the driving force in improving health and safety standards within the construction industry.

“I’m thrilled to be joining an organisation that continually strives to put excellence and innovation in building safety front and centre of a progressive agenda.

“I’m looking forward to engaging with APS members and our stakeholders to ensure best practice in building safety is not just vigorously upheld but proactively sought after.”

APS CEO Andrew Leslie said: “APS is delighted to welcome Sofie to the APS team in the newly created post of Deputy CEO.

“Sofie has a proven track record within the built environment and will add considerable knowledge and experience to the APS senior management team, and in particular provide essential additional support and expertise to enable both the President and CEO to deliver the APS strategy.”

APS President Mark Snelling added: “APS is extremely privileged to have Sofie join us as Deputy CEO.

“Sofie is highly respected within the industry and has been closely connected with the changes that have followed the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower.

“I look forward to working with Sofie and Andrew our CEO to ensure the APS both supports our members and drives the change that is required to ensure that the tragedy at Grenfell Tower is not repeated.”

APS appoints Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO to support building safety strategy: Summary

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has appointed Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO.

The announcement was made by APS on 7 May 2025.

Hooper previously served as Head of Policy and Research at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management.

She has worked extensively in public policy in the UK and EU.

While at IWFM, she co-authored the report Safer people, safer homes: Building Safety Management.

She worked closely with the Building Safety Regulator and other policy bodies.

APS stated she contributed to early policy input for the Building Safety Act 2022.

In her new role, she will report to CEO Andrew Leslie.

She will oversee policy development, training schemes, and stakeholder engagement.

APS said the role supports delivery of its building safety strategy.

Her appointment takes effect immediately.