John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

John Butler becomes first FSEDI graduate to lead Metro Chiefs

Former International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President John Butler has been appointed president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, according to the IAFC.

Butler, who serves as Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia, is the first graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) to be selected for the Metro Chiefs presidency.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association operates as a joint section of the IAFC and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Metro Chiefs includes departments from North America, Australia and beyond

The IAFC explained that the Metro Chiefs Association brings together senior officers from large fire departments across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other countries.

According to the IAFC, the association provides a platform for leadership development, operational collaboration and peer engagement across metropolitan fire services.

It stated that the Metro Chiefs section plays a central role in shaping education and strategic direction in the wider fire sector.

Education and research partnerships central to the association’s mission

The IAFC reported that the Metro Chiefs Association maintains longstanding relationships with safety research bodies and academic institutions.

It noted that these include FM, the Firefighter Safety Research Institute (UL), the Fire Protection Research Foundation and multiple universities.

The IAFC stated that such partnerships contribute to the association’s goal of supporting evidence-based leadership and decision-making in urban fire services.

Butler to guide policy direction during one-year term

The IAFC confirmed that Butler’s term as president will last one year.

It stated that he will chair meetings, coordinate committees and contribute to the delivery of internal and external objectives.

The IAFC added that Butler’s presidency comes at a time when many large fire departments are managing structural change and operational demands.

John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association: Summary

John Butler has been named president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association.

The announcement was made by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).

Butler is currently Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia.

He is a past president of the IAFC.

He is also the first Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) graduate to lead the Metro Chiefs.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association is a section of the IAFC and NFPA.

It includes senior fire officials from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other nations.

The IAFC reported that the association partners with research bodies and universities.

These include FM, UL’s Firefighter Safety Research Institute and the Fire Protection Research Foundation.

The IAFC said Butler will serve a one-year term as president.

His responsibilities include policy guidance, committee leadership and strategic coordination.

FPA expands accredited training with Level 3 fire safety qualification

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafetyTraining

New train-the-trainer qualification developed for UK fire safety professionals

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has announced the launch of a new Level 3 Certificate in Fire Safety Training, accredited by the Awarding Body for Building Education (ABBE).

According to the FPA, the course is designed to meet rising demand for accredited training and to support organisations aiming to improve workforce competency in fire safety.

The qualification is structured as a train-the-trainer programme and includes a four-day in-person attendance requirement, followed by eight weeks of additional learning and assessment.

The course delivers 13 Level 3 credits and comprises seven mandatory units, covering educational methods and core fire safety knowledge, including safe use of portable firefighting equipment.

FPA outlines course content and delivery structure

The Fire Protection Association stated that the qualification equips learners to deliver fire safety and fire warden training tailored to specific workplaces.

It explained that the seven required units include: ‘Roles, responsibilities, and relationships in education and training’; ‘Using inclusive teaching and learning approaches’; ‘Facilitating learning and development’; ‘Understanding assessment’; ‘Principles and practice of assessment’; ‘Fire safety principles’; and ‘Using portable firefighting equipment safely’.

The FPA said the qualification involves a total learning time of 130 hours and is designed for those wishing to gain a formal training role in fire safety.

Range of FPA fire safety qualifications available

In addition to the new certificate, the Fire Protection Association provides a series of fire safety qualifications categorised by level and total qualification time.

The FPA explained that an Award consists of up to 120 hours, a Certificate ranges from 121 to 369 hours, and a Diploma exceeds 370 hours.

All qualifications are awarded by organisations regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual), it added.

The organisation confirmed that current offerings include the Level 3 Certificate and Level 4 Diploma in Fire Risk Assessment, both of which support compliance with fire safety legislation in the UK, as well as Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Passive Fire Protection and Fire Door Inspection.

Statement from FPA Head of Training

FPA Head of Training, Kelly Donoghue, said: “The launch of our new Level 3 Fire Safety Training qualification marks an important milestone in supporting the competency agenda for organisations as it is designed to meet employers’ needs whilst providing industry professionals with key knowledge and understanding.”

Kelly Donoghue added: “Along with our Training Delivery Team, I am excited to welcome learners onto this qualification which has been developed because of the high demand for our Train the Trainer course to become an OFQUAL registered qualification.”

FPA expands accredited training with Level 3 fire safety qualification: Summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has launched a new Level 3 Certificate in Fire Safety Training.

The qualification is accredited by the Awarding Body for Building Education (ABBE).

It is designed as a train-the-trainer course to meet demand for fire safety training qualifications.

The course includes 130 hours of total qualification time, with a four-day attendance requirement and eight weeks for additional assessment.

Seven units are mandatory, covering both educational practice and fire safety knowledge.

The qualification awards 13 Level 3 credits.

The FPA also offers other qualifications ranging from Awards to Diplomas.

These qualifications are regulated by Ofqual through awarding organisations.

They include certificates and diplomas in fire risk assessment.

The FPA offers passive fire protection and fire door inspection qualifications.

FPA Head of Training Kelly Donoghue said the new qualification meets employer and professional needs.

The course has been developed following high demand for an accredited Train the Trainer option.

UK schools asked to donate used heat detectors for fire safety research

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Detection

FIA and BRE request heat detectors from school upgrades for testing

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has asked fire alarm professionals to retain and donate used but functioning heat detectors removed during school maintenance work.

According to the FIA, this appeal supports a joint research project with the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to investigate how environmental conditions affect heat detector performance.

The FIA stated that summer holidays are an ideal period for this collection, as many schools schedule system upgrades during this time.

Research aims to study environmental impact on fire detection

The Fire Industry Association explained that the project with BRE focuses on how real-life conditions influence the operation and lifespan of heat detectors.

The FIA said the results will contribute to updated standards, new maintenance advice and improved product design for the wider fire detection sector.

The organisation added that understanding long-term detector performance is essential to ensuring effective fire safety in varied built environments.

Donated devices must be working and accompanied by usage data

The Fire Industry Association confirmed that only working heat detectors will be accepted for the study.

It specified that each unit must be submitted with a completed questionnaire detailing its usage location and environmental context.

The FIA said that this contextual information is necessary for the research to deliver relevant and practical insights for future applications.

How to participate in the collection initiative

The FIA stated that heat detectors can be donated by contacting gemma.sambells@bregroup.com for shipping details.

It also asked contributors to send completed questionnaires to the same address.

The Fire Industry Association and the Building Research Establishment expressed their thanks to those who have already donated.

They noted that with the upcoming summer upgrades, now is a useful opportunity for others in the sector to contribute.

UK schools asked to donate used heat detectors for fire safety research: Summary

The Fire Industry Association is collecting used, working heat detectors during school summer upgrades.

The detectors will support a joint research project with the Building Research Establishment.

The research aims to analyse how environmental conditions affect heat detector performance.

Only devices in working order will be accepted for study.

Each donated detector must be accompanied by a completed questionnaire.

The questionnaire collects data on where and how the detector was used.

The findings will support the development of future detection standards and maintenance guidance.

Contact gemma.sambells@bregroup.com to participate or submit a device.

NFCC urges legal reform on inland water rescue responsibilities

by Associations and OrganisationsSafetySearch and Rescue

NFCC highlights national action needed on water safety

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has stated that national-level action is required to reduce accidental drownings across the UK.

According to the NFCC, the absence of a statutory responsibility for inland water rescue in England limits how fire and rescue services can respond to and prevent these incidents.

The NFCC made this call during its Be Water Aware campaign week, which coincides with early May temperatures reaching record highs in parts of the UK.

Be Water Aware campaign urges political commitment

The NFCC said that 1,409 people died in accidental drownings between 2019 and 2023, based on data from the Water Incident Database.

It reported that 57% of those deaths occurred in inland waterways such as rivers, canals and lakes.

Chris Kirby, NFCC Water Safety Lead, said: “Be Water Aware week is aimed at reducing drownings across the UK.

“Along with increasing public awareness around the risk of accidental drowning and spreading the word about how we can all keep ourselves safe, this year we are really seeking political buy in.

“1,400 people have died in accidental drowning incidents across just five years. We need urgent action to prevent anybody else coming to harm and that requires steps being taken at a national level.”

Kirby added: “We are working closely with partners in the National Water Safety Forum to do whatever possible to reduce the risk, but we would like to see an increased political effort to drive down numbers.

“This also means consulting on giving fire and rescue services in England enhanced legal duties to respond to inland water incidents so that we can be better equipped and prepared to deal with those emergencies when they happen.”

Lack of statutory duty and funding in England

The NFCC stated that, unlike in Wales, fire and rescue services in England are not legally required to respond to inland water incidents.

It said this can result in inconsistent resourcing, equipment and training across the UK.

The NFCC noted that Scotland and Northern Ireland have some statutory duties linked to flooding response, while England does not have a comparable legal obligation for water rescue.

It added that there is currently no sustained funding stream for fire and rescue services to support water rescue and prevention work.

The NFCC said that creating a legal basis for these responsibilities would improve the ability of services to plan and fund such activities.

NFCC calls for a lead UK department on water safety

The NFCC and the National Water Safety Forum have both called on the UK Government to appoint a Minister responsible for water safety.

They said that the lack of a clear policy lead at the national level is hampering coordination, accountability and development of water safety strategies.

The NFCC stated that devolved governments in Wales and Scotland already have Ministers with this responsibility, enabling better oversight of drowning prevention.

It also endorsed recommendations made in the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents’ Safer Lives, Stronger Nation report for the UK Government to adopt a national accident prevention strategy.

Climate change increasing water safety risks

The NFCC warned that climate change is making water safety risks more severe.

It said that extreme weather events are contributing to both wetter winters and hotter summers, which could result in more people exposed to dangerous water conditions.

The organisation said this makes the case stronger for giving English fire and rescue services a legal role in water safety and response.

It also highlighted that the UK Drowning Prevention Strategy 2016–2026 is nearing its end and said a new strategy will be developed.

It said a designated Minister could play a key role in improving national coordination of that work.

NFCC urges legal reform on inland water rescue responsibilities: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has called for national-level action on water safety in the UK.

It made the call during its Be Water Aware campaign week.

The NFCC wants the UK Government to introduce a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England to carry out inland water rescue and prevention.

It said that 1,409 people died from accidental drownings between 2019 and 2023.

It stated that 57% of these deaths occurred in inland waterways.

NFCC Water Safety Lead Chris Kirby said legal change is needed to improve emergency response.

The NFCC also wants a UK Minister to take responsibility for water safety prevention.

It said a lack of statutory duty in England leads to inconsistent training, equipment and standards.

It reported that Wales has a statutory duty and Scotland and Northern Ireland have legal duties linked to flooding.

The NFCC noted there is no continuous funding for water safety activities.

It said climate change is increasing the likelihood of dangerous water-related incidents.

The NFCC supports the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents’ call for a national accident prevention strategy.

Volunteer firefighter support boosted by national partnerships

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

State Farm funds $1.5 million in equipment grants for US volunteer fire departments

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported that 150 volunteer fire departments across the United States will each receive a $10,000 grant through the 2024 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program.

The initiative is funded by State Farm and administered by the NVFC.

It marks the second year of the programme.

The NVFC said the funding will help local departments purchase equipment to support the safety and effectiveness of volunteer firefighters.

NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch said: “We are thrilled to work with State Farm to better equip our local volunteer fire departments.

“Volunteer firefighters are the lifeblood of our communities, yet many departments struggle to find the funding for the equipment and tools they need.

“Thanks to these grants from State Farm, we can help make sure our responders are better prepared for when the call comes in.”

Rasheed Merritt, corporate responsibility assistant vice president at State Farm, said: “At State Farm part of our mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life.

“We are committed to helping build safer, stronger, better educated communities.

“We are proud to support the safety of volunteer firefighters – the ultimate good neighbours who risk their lives each and every day.”

Application period opens in June for eligible departments

According to the NVFC, the grant application window will open at 12:00am Eastern Time on 4 June and close at 11:59pm Eastern Time on 6 June.

The programme is open to departments that meet specific criteria, including being at least 50 percent volunteer-based, serving populations of 25,000 or fewer, having an annual revenue under $250,000, and being legally established in the US under state law.

The NVFC said funds can be used to purchase various items such as personal protective equipment, communication tools, rescue gear, and other technology.

The organisation added that the first 2,000 departments to apply will also receive a complimentary NVFC membership from State Farm.

The NVFC stated that application guidance, eligibility requirements, and an approved equipment list are available at www.nvfc.org/statefarm.

Grants aim to relieve budget constraints for rural responders

The NVFC said the grants are intended to help departments address budget limitations that restrict their ability to purchase essential gear.

It noted that many rural fire departments across the country rely on volunteers and operate with minimal funding.

The NVFC explained that the $10,000 grants can make a measurable difference for departments that otherwise struggle to update their equipment.

It stated that departments interested in applying should begin preparing their information in advance of the three-day window.

The NVFC advised departments to consult its resources online to ensure a complete and timely submission.

Anheuser-Busch delivers 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water

Anheuser-Busch has announced that it has produced its 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water for disaster relief efforts in the United States.

The company said the milestone reflects decades of support for affected communities.

It stated that its breweries have regularly paused beer production since 1988 to can and distribute water during emergencies.

The American Red Cross said the collaboration has supported relief efforts across the country.

Cliff Holtz, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross, said: “For over a century, Anheuser-Busch has been a vital partner in providing disaster relief support with the American Red Cross.

“This collaboration has been instrumental in our joint efforts to support communities during times of need across the country.

“As Anheuser-Busch reaches the remarkable milestone of producing 100 million cans of clean drinking water, we are proud to celebrate our enduring partnership and its lifechanging impact on millions of lives.”

Emergency water donations to reach over 600 volunteer fire departments

Anheuser-Busch said its 100 millionth can will be distributed in May as part of its annual summer preparedness campaign.

The company stated that, in partnership with the NVFC and its wholesalers, it will provide 1.5 million cans of water to more than 630 volunteer fire departments across 45 states.

The NVFC said the donations allow departments to reserve their limited funding for other needs.

Sarah Lee, chief executive officer of the NVFC, said: “Since our partnership began in 2019, Anheuser-Busch’s emergency drinking water donations have been vital to our mission of serving American communities in times of need.

“More than 10 percent of the 100 million cans have gone directly to departments across the country, helping ensure responders stay safe and hydrated on the front lines.

“These contributions also provide critical cost savings, allowing departments to redirect limited budgets toward other essential needs.”

Brewery investment supports long-term emergency response capacity

Anheuser-Busch said it is investing more than $6 million in its Fort Collins facility to improve production of both beer and emergency drinking water.

The company noted that its breweries in Fort Collins, Colorado and Cartersville, Georgia are currently designated to produce water year-round.

Cesar Vargas, chief external affairs officer at Anheuser-Busch, said: “This kind of lasting impact is only possible because of the dedication of our people, including our breweries and our network of partners and wholesalers.

“Reaching 100 million cans produced is just one more way we demonstrate our constant, unwavering commitment to showing up for our neighbours when it matters most.

“Our continued investments in our Fort Collins brewery strengthen our ability to respond quickly in times of need.

“It’s something we will continue to do for years to come – because that’s who we are.”

Volunteer firefighter support boosted by national partnerships: Summary

The National Volunteer Fire Council said 150 fire departments will each receive $10,000 through the 2024 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program.

The initiative is funded by State Farm.

The application window runs from 4 to 6 June 2024.

Eligible departments must be majority-volunteer, serve populations of 25,000 or fewer, and meet other criteria.

State Farm is also providing 2,000 NVFC memberships for early applicants.

Grants can be used to purchase protective gear, tools, and other safety equipment.

Anheuser-Busch has announced its 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water for disaster response.

The water is produced during periodic pauses in beer manufacturing at designated US breweries.

The company is investing over $6 million in its Fort Collins facility to improve production capacity.

1.5 million cans will be delivered in May to 630 volunteer fire departments across 45 states.

The campaign is in partnership with the NVFC and American Red Cross.

The NVFC said donations reduce spending pressure on departments.

Over 10 percent of Anheuser-Busch’s 100 million cans have gone to fire departments.

The NVFC and Red Cross both noted the value of long-term corporate support.

New apprenticeship programme for firefighters launched across the United States

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsTraining

IAFF and US Department of Labor introduce first national firefighter apprenticeship

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has announced the launch of the IAFF Fire and EMS Apprenticeship Program, a new federally registered apprenticeship designed to support firefighter and emergency medical services recruitment in the United States.

According to the IAFF, the programme was introduced at a signing ceremony hosted at the Frances Perkins Department of Labor building in Washington, D.C., and is the first federally registered apprenticeship of its kind for the fire service.

The IAFF stated that the programme has been established in response to long-term recruitment and retention challenges affecting fire departments across the country.

Programme offers new pathway into US fire and EMS services

The IAFF explained that the programme will allow fire departments to access a nationally coordinated model for hiring, training, and retaining new firefighters and EMS personnel.

The programme has been federally registered through the Department of Labor to provide departments with consistent support and expanded access to funding and other federal resources.

IAFF General President Edward Kelly said: “As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Day, what a fitting occasion to launch the first-ever apprenticeship programme for firefighters and paramedics in the United States. This programme will not only give firefighters in every jurisdiction a baseline of skills, but it allows those fire chiefs to tailor their training to the specific hazards they have in their jurisdictions – something that’s incredibly important.”

Kelly added: “This is a brand-new era for the US fire service.”

Partnership focuses on training and safety standards

The US Department of Labor said the programme has been created to ensure departments have enough properly trained personnel to meet community needs and maintain health and safety standards.

US Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer said: “Time and time again, the IAFF has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the rights, safety, and future of firefighters, emergency medical workers, and rescue workers.”

Chavez-DeRemer added: “Registered apprenticeships like these ensure responders have enhanced capabilities that help prevent harm and improve overall health and safety. Programmes like yours are reinforcing proper protections to avoid tragedies and build a future where everyone remains safe. That’s why I’m so excited to be part of this signing ceremony today.”

Federal coordination and military career transitions included in scope

The IAFF noted that the programme will unify existing state-level apprenticeship models under one federal framework, allowing for broader implementation and support.

The programme has also been designed to align with Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense employment transition initiatives, such as SkillBridge and Career Skills Programs.

According to the IAFF, the programme will provide an accessible path into the fire service for former military personnel and others facing barriers to certification and training.

Kelly said: “Together with the fire chiefs, we launched this concept to boost the ranks of the American fire service.”

Recruitment needs remain high for US departments

The IAFF stated that fire departments across the US continue to face staffing shortages, particularly in small and rural areas.

These shortages, it said, have contributed to increased workloads, burnout, and injuries among existing staff.

According to the IAFF, the new apprenticeship model is the first national solution aimed at reversing these trends through structured training and recruitment.

Kelly said: “We are going to redefine the US fire service through this programme.”

New apprenticeship programme for firefighters launched across the United States: Summary

The International Association of Fire Fighters has launched a new federal apprenticeship programme for fire and EMS personnel.

The announcement was made alongside the US Department of Labor during National Apprenticeship Day.

The IAFF Fire and EMS Apprenticeship Program is the first federally registered apprenticeship scheme for the US fire service.

It will support recruitment and training needs across fire departments in every state.

The Department of Labor said the scheme will improve safety and skill standards for fire and EMS workers.

The IAFF said it will coordinate existing state apprenticeship programmes under a national model.

Federal registration will provide departments with greater access to funding and resources.

The programme will also support former military personnel entering fire service careers.

Workforce shortages have affected departments across the US, especially in rural areas.

The IAFF said the programme was developed through discussions with the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Firefighters Union says Reform UK poses ‘direct threat to workers’ rights’ in UK by-election

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Firefighters campaign against Reform UK ahead of vote in Runcorn and Helsby

The Fire Brigades Union has reported that firefighters are campaigning in Runcorn and Helsby against the policies of Reform UK, which they say pose a direct threat to workers’ rights.

The union said the campaign comes ahead of the 1 May by-election and involves local firefighters distributing leaflets that criticise Reform UK’s record on public service funding, support for private healthcare, and voting history on employment rights.

The Fire Brigades Union stated that Nigel Farage, who has visited the constituency three times in recent weeks, is promoting policies that would negatively impact NHS services, schools and fire and rescue provision.

Union criticises Reform UK’s voting record and policy positions

The Fire Brigades Union reported that Reform UK has consistently voted against proposals to improve workers’ rights in Parliament.

According to the union, the party also supports reductions in public spending and advocates for increased private sector involvement in healthcare and other public services.

It said this policy direction would reduce the quality and accessibility of public services, affecting not only firefighters but also the communities they serve.

Fire Brigades Union general secretary issues public warning

Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright said:
“Trade unions have a responsibility to take a leading role in countering the rise of the far right. Farage and Reform present a direct threat to workers’ rights in our country.”

“Reform is a part of the establishment. We cannot allow their divisive anti-migrant politics to pit workers against each other.”

“Their policies and track record speak for themselves: threatening to slash and privatise public services, voting against improvements to working conditions in parliament.”

“Firefighters and other public sector workers are warning of the dangers that this far-right party presents to all voters.”

Local firefighter speaks out against party’s impact on the community

The Fire Brigades Union shared the views of Jack Fellows, a firefighter based in Runcorn, who is taking part in the campaign.

Jack Fellows said:
“It’s our duty as firefighters to fight for what is right and stand up for public services. We cannot stand by while Nigel Farage and his party attempt to divide our community.”

“Firefighters do not trust Reform. Farage pretends to be anti-establishment and a man of the people, but he was born rich and worked as a stockbroker. He doesn’t represent us. We see through the spin – his party is interested in protecting profits and the interests of the rich above everything else.”

“Reform has no place in Runcorn and Helsby.”

Firefighters say Reform UK poses ‘a direct threat to workers’ rights’ in UK by-election: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has reported that firefighters are campaigning against Reform UK in the Runcorn and Helsby by-election.

The union said the campaign includes leaflet distribution warning voters about the party’s stance on public service funding and workers’ rights.

Reform UK received 18 percent of the vote in the 2024 general election in this constituency.

Nigel Farage has visited Runcorn and Helsby three times in recent weeks.

The union stated that Reform UK supports policies which reduce NHS, school and fire service funding.

It added that the party backs private healthcare and has voted against workers’ rights in Parliament.

Steve Wright, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said Reform UK threatens workers’ rights and public services.

Jack Fellows, a firefighter in Runcorn, criticised the party’s attempt to present itself as anti-establishment.

The union said the campaign is focused on informing voters ahead of polls opening on 1 May.

This news applies to the United Kingdom.

Fire research testing developments at FPA: Supporting UK safety and construction strategy

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsResearch

FPA expands UK fire research testing to meet construction and safety demands

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has expanded its fire research testing capacity to meet the growing needs of UK insurers, regulators, manufacturers, and fire engineers.

According to the Fire Protection Association, its Gloucestershire-based Fire Testing Laboratory – accredited by UKAS – now offers testing aligned with multiple British Standards including BS 8414 for cladding, BS 8458 for watermist systems, and several fire resistance standards for building components.

The FPA explained that its expanded facility is designed to support experimental fire testing, full-scale reconstructions and fire simulation research. The organisation stated this research plays a role in supporting new safety strategies across government, construction, and the fire and rescue sector.

Technical director highlights the importance of experimental fire testing

George Edwardes, Technical Director of the FPA, said the association’s expanded research testing supports fire safety and industry adaptation.

Edwardes said: “Research and experimental fire testing is going to play a critical role in enabling net zero construction.”

Edwardes added: “We are pleased to have further expanded our capabilities with our dedicated research team who can support the needs of the industry in shaping fire safety strategies, improving building resilience and informing regulatory and insurance practices.”

The FPA stated that its new facility can support tests involving fires up to 8 MW, with features including integrated suppression systems, overpressure vents and environmental controls for smoke extraction and wastewater management.

Research into external cladding systems informs safety practices

The FPA said its fire research is primarily carried out through its RISCAuthority research programme, which is funded by UK insurers and supports sector-specific working groups.

The organisation explained that it recently published a guide on fire risks associated with green and living walls. This guidance was produced in collaboration with living wall suppliers and insurers including Vertical Meadow, Viritopia, Biotecture, ABI, Growing Revolution and Scotscape.

The FPA added that it also developed a new fire test method for cladding systems, known as RISC 501, in response to identified shortcomings in BS 8414 and BR 135 testing. The FPA stated the new approach was created with the University of Central Lancashire, insurers and consultants to improve assessment reliability and limit fire spread.

Ongoing projects aim to improve fire resilience in changing construction methods

The FPA stated that its future research initiatives focus on enabling safe use of modern construction materials and technologies.

The association reported plans to examine fire safety in timber-framed buildings, insulation installation, photovoltaic panel use, and lightweight steel structures.

It added that other work will include compiling a database on combustible product behaviours, and developing a fire safety classification system for buildings that could integrate with BIM platforms.

The organisation also plans to carry out horizon scanning for emerging fire risks.

Fire research testing developments at FPA: Summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has expanded its fire research testing facility in Gloucestershire.

The facility supports British Standard-aligned testing, fire reconstructions and simulations.

FPA’s Technical Director George Edwardes stated that experimental fire testing supports net zero construction.

The new facility includes suppression systems, overpressure vents, smoke extraction, and wastewater treatment.

Research projects are conducted via RISCAuthority, a UK insurer-funded programme.

Recent studies include fire risk guidance for green walls and development of the RISC 501 cladding test.

Collaborating organisations include Vertical Meadow, Viritopia, ABI, Biotecture, Growing Revolution and Scotscape.

FPA plans future research on safe use of timber, insulation, photovoltaic panels and steel framing.

Other aims include a combustible materials database and building classification system.

The research will feed into fire strategy development and BIM integration.

Horizon scanning for future risks is also part of the FPA’s 2025 research priorities.

Firefighters to vote on proposed 3.2% pay deal across the UK

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Pay deal includes removal of trainee rate and talks on progression

The Fire Brigades Union has recommended that its members accept a new pay deal following an offer from national fire service employers.

According to the Union, the proposed agreement includes a 3.2% increase on all basic pay rates and Continual Professional Development payments, with further talks planned on pay progression and other additional duties.

The offer would also end the use of the ‘trainee’ rate of pay, allowing all new recruits to begin on the higher ‘development’ rate.

If the proposal is accepted, the pay increase would take effect from 1 July across the United Kingdom.

Union leadership recommends acceptance of offer

The Fire Brigades Union explained that its executive council is recommending members accept the deal during a forthcoming ballot.

Steve Wright, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, said:

“The FBU executive council has today recommended that members vote to accept a pay offer from the fire service employers.”

“3.2% will insulate firefighters and fire control staff from inflation for a year. This offer will also open up the possibility of restructuring fire service pay to recognise additional skills and duties.”

Steve Wright added:

“But we need to be clear that inflation-level pay rises will not be enough in the long run. Since 2010, firefighters have lost around 12% of the value of their pay. Workers rightly expect Labour to repair the damage of austerity.”

Broader calls for government investment

In his statement, Steve Wright emphasised the importance of future investment and reform.

He said:

“Firefighters and fire control staff work round the clock, often risking their own health and safety, to keep the public safe. The new government has an opportunity to rebuild the fire service with investment and pay reform. We will push them to deliver.”

He concluded:

“This year’s pay offer is now in the hands of FBU members. The executive council recommends that they accept it.”

Pay negotiated through national joint process

The Fire Brigades Union highlighted that pay in the fire service is negotiated directly between the union and fire service employers through the National Joint Council.

Unlike other sectors, this process allows for direct discussions on salaries, benefits and conditions between employer representatives and union officials.

The Fire Brigades Union confirmed that voting will take place ahead of the union’s annual conference, with results expected before the end of May.

Firefighters vote on proposed 3.2% pay deal across the UK: Summary

The Fire Brigades Union has reported that it is recommending a pay offer to its members.

The offer includes a 3.2% increase in all basic pay and Continual Professional Development payments.

The proposed deal also removes the trainee rate of pay.

All new recruits would start on the higher development rate if the offer is accepted.

Negotiations will begin on progression and pay for additional duties.

The pay offer would take effect from 1 July 2025.

Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright stated that the deal protects pay against inflation.

Wright said future reforms and investment are still needed to address long-term pay concerns.

Members of the Fire Brigades Union will vote on the offer in the coming weeks.

Results are expected before the union’s annual conference at the end of May.

Pay in the fire service is negotiated directly between the union and employers through the National Joint Council.

IAFC joins DCD fire safety campaign aims to train one billion people by 2027

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsSafety

IAFC joins Dubai Civil Defense in international fire safety campaign

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced its involvement in the Dubai Civil Defense-led “Billion Readiness Campaign“, a global fire safety initiative.

According to the IAFC, the campaign aims to reach and train one billion people between 2025 and 2027. The initiative focuses on increasing public and responder awareness of fire safety practices across 34 countries in collaboration with 18 major firefighting organisations.

The Dubai Civil Defense is funding the initiative. Activities began in September 2024. The IAFC has committed to supporting this effort through quarterly updates on member outreach and encouraging global fire services to submit local engagement data.

Campaign goals include training and outreach on global scale

The Billion Readiness Campaign aims to deliver fire safety training and educational outreach to one billion individuals by the end of 2026. The UAE-led initiative includes humanitarian aid and public awareness efforts designed to reduce fire risks.

The programme is intended to enhance safety knowledge, reduce fire incidents and improve community security. It also aims to create a consistent reporting structure through regular feedback from global partners.

The IAFC will contribute data through quarterly outreach reports and encourages fire departments to complete a recurring survey capturing engagement figures and activities.

IAFC issues call for participation from member agencies

The IAFC has outlined specific reporting milestones to track campaign progress. These include five key dates between April 2025 and October 2026, during which fire departments are asked to submit summaries of their outreach.

The reporting periods include estimated achievements for 2024, biannual reviews for 2025 and 2026, and a final update in October 2026. These reports will form part of the IAFC’s overall contribution to the campaign’s evaluation.

Departments are asked to submit details on outreach activities and the estimated number of individuals reached.

Fire services urged to contribute to local-level training efforts

IAFC members are being encouraged to support the campaign by delivering community-level outreach and education programmes. Each agency is asked to document and submit their activities as part of a coordinated global effort.

The IAFC described its role in the campaign as an opportunity to demonstrate the scale of impact that fire and emergency services can have when working together.

The association has called for broad participation from its network of professionals to meet the campaign’s ambitious target.

Fire safety campaign aims to train one billion people by 2026: Summary

The IAFC has confirmed it will partner with Dubai Civil Defense on the Billion Readiness Campaign.

The campaign began in September 2024 and continues through 2026.

Its objective is to reach one billion individuals with fire safety training.

The initiative includes participation from 34 countries and 18 firefighting organisations.

The IAFC will support the campaign through outreach and quarterly reporting.

Participating agencies are asked to submit data on training and engagement levels.

The first reporting milestone is 1 April 2025.

The final campaign report is due on 1 October 2026.

All submissions are intended to help measure the campaign’s reach and effectiveness.

The campaign is funded by Dubai Civil Defense.

IAFC members are encouraged to contribute at the local level.