FIA nominations for 2024 councils and board close at midnight on October 3rd

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Nominations deadline approaching for FIA councils and board

The deadline for nominations for the 2024 Fire Industry Association (FIA) Councils and Board is approaching, with submissions closing at midnight on 3rd October 2024.

Member companies of the FIA are encouraged to submit their nominations before the deadline.

These nominations offer the opportunity to have a voice in various councils, which focus on specific areas within the fire safety industry.

Successful nominees will be announced at the FIA Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 7th November 2024.

FIA member companies can self-nominate or put forward an employee to serve on one of the FIA’s seven councils or on the FIA Board.

This is an opportunity to shape the future direction of fire safety standards and practices in the UK.

Areas of representation in FIA councils

The seven councils within the FIA focus on different areas of the fire safety industry.

They include the Fire Detection & Alarm Council, Services Council, Fire Extinguishing Council, Fire Risk Assessment Council, Fire Engineering Council, FRES Council (Fire and Rescue Suppliers), and Export Council.

Each council plays a vital role in representing specific industry needs, attending quarterly meetings to discuss and guide industry policies and standards.

By nominating a representative to one of these councils, member companies can ensure their voices are heard in important discussions that shape the industry’s future.

Voting process and upcoming AGM

While nominations close on 3rd October, voting will not commence until 4th October 2024.

This voting process will determine which nominees will take up positions on the councils and the board.

The formal announcement of successful candidates will be made during the FIA AGM on 7th November.

The AGM will serve as an important event for the FIA and its members, where the elected council members and board will be confirmed, marking the beginning of their term for 2024.

How to submit a nomination

FIA member companies looking to nominate must log in to the FIA website and complete the nomination form provided.

This process is open to all FIA members and allows them to nominate either themselves or an employee for a council position.

Nominations will officially close at midnight on 3rd October.

FIA nominations for 2024 councils and board close tomorrow: summary

The FIA has announced that the deadline for nominations for the 2024 FIA Councils and Board will close on 3rd October 2024.

Member companies can nominate either themselves or an employee to serve on one of the FIA’s seven councils or the FIA Board.

These councils cover key areas of the fire safety industry and will meet quarterly to influence the industry’s future direction.

Voting will begin on 4th October, with successful candidates announced at the FIA AGM on 7th November 2024.

European fire safety organisations urge EU Commissioner-designate to prioritise fire safety

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Fire Safe Europe and others call for fire safety in EU energy and housing agenda

As reported by Fire Safe Europe, three European fire safety organisations have jointly called on Dan Jørgensen, the European Commissioner-designate for Energy and Housing, to prioritise fire safety as part of Europe’s energy and housing policies.

In a letter addressed to Jørgensen, Fire Safe Europe, the European Fire Safety Alliance (EuroFSA), and FEEDS emphasised the importance of embedding fire safety into the EU’s decarbonisation and sustainability agenda.

They expressed concern that efforts to improve energy efficiency through technologies such as EV charging stations, photovoltaic panels, and battery storage systems could pose increased fire risks without proper safety measures.

The organisations stressed: “Energy-efficient buildings must be fire-safe buildings.”

Urgent need to integrate fire safety into EU policies

The letter pointed out that the integration of fire safety into energy and housing policies is critical to protecting lives, preventing economic losses, and ensuring the effectiveness of the EU’s decarbonisation efforts.

The organisations have developed a European Fire Safety Strategy, which outlines practical measures for enhancing fire safety across Europe.

This strategy has been supported by multiple MEPs, including Niels Fuglsang and Sean Kelly.

They urged Jørgensen to consider the strategy as a key component of his policy objectives, saying: “By embedding fire safety into your agenda, you will ensure that Europe’s buildings not only meet sustainability targets but are also resilient and safe.”

Collaboration offered by fire safety groups

In their letter, Fire Safe Europe, EuroFSA, and FEEDS expressed their willingness to assist the Commissioner-designate in developing policies that incorporate fire safety.

They stated their readiness to meet with Jørgensen or his team to discuss how fire safety can be integrated into his strategic objectives for energy and housing.

The letter concluded with a request for a meeting to further explore how fire safety can be made a priority, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts across Europe to ensure both sustainability and safety in the building sector.

Support from European Parliament members

The organisations pointed out that their approach aligns with the wider goals of sustainability and safety across the EU.

In particular, their European Fire Safety Strategy is supported by a broad cross-section of the European Parliament, indicating the strong political backing for integrating fire safety into the EU’s energy and housing agenda.

They concluded by urging Jørgensen to consider the strategy as part of his work and expressed their commitment to supporting his team in any capacity necessary to advance fire safety objectives.

European fire safety organisations call for fire safety prioritisation: Summary

Fire Safe Europe, EuroFSA, and FEEDS have written to Dan Jørgensen, the European Commissioner-designate for Energy and Housing, calling for fire safety to be embedded in the EU’s energy and housing policies.

The letter warns that technologies used to enhance energy efficiency, such as EV charging stations and photovoltaic panels, could increase fire risks if safety measures are not included in the EU’s sustainability efforts.

The organisations have developed a European Fire Safety Strategy supported by MEPs and offered their collaboration to help Jørgensen incorporate fire safety into his strategic priorities.

They emphasised that energy-efficient buildings must also be fire-safe buildings.

FPA Chief Executive responds to Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

FPA outlines roadmap for change following Grenfell Tower Inquiry findings

Dr Gavin Dunn, Chief Executive of the Fire Protection Association (FPA), has responded to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, outlining a roadmap for industry change.

The Phase 2 report, led by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, focuses on the systemic failures that contributed to the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in 2017, which claimed 72 lives.

As reported by the FPA, the Inquiry highlights deficiencies in building design, fire safety measures, and regulatory systems.

The report identifies over 60 recommendations aimed at improving fire and building safety across the UK.

Dr Dunn remarked that the report’s findings should prompt a major industry shift to prioritise safety.

To read Dr Dunn’s full comments on the report and its recommendations, visit the FPA’s official website here.

Building products and testing standards criticised in inquiry report

The Inquiry report exposes widespread failures in the regulation of construction products, particularly combustible cladding.

The lack of stringent oversight allowed manufacturers to distribute unsafe materials, and existing testing standards, such as BS 476, failed to adequately assess the fire risks posed by modern materials.

Recommendations from the Inquiry include the establishment of an independent authority to oversee construction product safety, the replacement of outdated testing standards, and the implementation of regular recertification for materials used in high-risk buildings.

Dr Dunn expressed support for these changes, noting that stricter product oversight is crucial to preventing future tragedies.

Failures in building control and fire safety assessments identified

The Phase 2 report also highlights the failings of building control departments, particularly in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC).

These departments did not sufficiently examine the fire hazards posed by combustible cladding and relied too heavily on manufacturer certifications.

The report calls for reforms in building control, including improved competency assessments and increased inspection frequency.

Fire engineers and risk assessors were found to have provided inadequate assessments, failing to address the specific risks posed by Grenfell Tower’s cladding system.

The Inquiry recommends mandatory accreditation for fire engineers and assessors, along with enhanced training to improve competency across the sector.

Redefining high-risk buildings in wake of Grenfell tragedy

A key theme in the report is the need to redefine “high-risk buildings” in the UK’s regulatory framework.

The current definition, which is based primarily on building height, does not sufficiently account for other risk factors such as vulnerable occupants or the presence of fire safety features.

Sir Martin Moore-Bick’s recommendations suggest a more nuanced, risk-based approach to building classification and fire safety protocols.

Dr Dunn acknowledged the challenges of expanding the definition but emphasised the importance of a tailored approach to fire safety.

He pointed out that changing the definition could have far-reaching implications for the industry, requiring new strategies and resources to meet safety standards for a broader range of buildings.

Fire Protection Association addresses Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations: summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has responded to the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, which outlines the systemic failures that led to the 2017 fire that claimed 72 lives.

The report recommends significant reforms in the fire safety and construction sectors, including the establishment of an independent authority for construction product safety, the overhaul of testing standards, and the redefinition of “high-risk buildings.”

To read Dr Gavin Dunn’s full comments on the report and its recommendations, visit the FPA’s official website here.

NFPA unveils global training network for fire and safety professionals

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

NFPA announces new initiative to expand access to safety training

As reported by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the organisation has introduced the Authorised Education Network (AEN), a new global initiative aimed at addressing the increasing demand for safety training.

The AEN will allow NFPA-approved instructors to deliver training via a network of authorised providers, ensuring global access to industry-recognised safety courses.

NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley said: “With the NFPA Authorised Education Network, we’re taking a major step forward in expanding access to the world-class training that NFPA is known for.”

The AEN is set to offer professionals access to expert-led instruction in safety-critical areas like fire protection, building safety, and life safety.

Who can apply to be an NFPA authorised training provider?

The NFPA is inviting organisations and individuals within the fire, electrical, and life safety sectors to apply for authorised training provider status within the AEN.

This opportunity is open to a wide variety of entities including associations, consulting firms, and training companies.

Approved providers will gain access to world-class training materials developed by the NFPA and can display a digital badge issued by Credly, recognising their authorised status.

Benefits of becoming an authorised provider

NFPA-authorised training providers can deliver courses designed by experts, saving time and resources with ready-made content.

Organisations will also benefit from ease of management by using NFPA’s online Learning Portal, enabling streamlined class and student management.

Pauley added: “This initiative helps meet the huge global demand for authentic NFPA instructor-led training, ensuring that safety professionals everywhere have the knowledge, information, and skills they need to protect lives and property.”

Available courses and application process

The AEN offers NFPA’s most in-demand training courses, including those focused on fire protection systems, electrical safety, and NFPA certification preparation.

Most courses will be available in English, with a selection in Spanish, and will include the latest updates to NFPA codes and standards.

Interested organisations or individuals can apply to become authorised training providers or NFPA-approved instructors via the NFPA website.

NFPA unveils global training network for fire and safety professionals: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has launched the Authorised Education Network (AEN) to meet global demand for safety training.

The AEN allows NFPA-approved instructors to deliver expert-led courses through authorised providers, expanding access to crucial fire, electrical, and life safety training worldwide.

The NFPA is encouraging associations, consulting firms, and training companies to apply for provider status.

Successful applicants will have access to ready-made NFPA courses and materials, saving time and boosting credibility with a digital badge from Credly.

The network offers a range of courses, including those focused on fire protection systems and certification preparation.

Most will be available in English, with some courses offered in Spanish.

Fire Protection Association supports Grenfell Inquiry’s phase 2 recommendations for fire safety reform

by Associations and OrganisationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s phase 2 report released

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has commented on recently published Phase 2 report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The report, authored by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, examines the systemic failures leading up to the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower on 14 June 2017, which resulted in the deaths of 72 residents.

The report highlights various shortcomings in the construction and fire safety sectors.

The inquiry did not attribute the disaster to a single cause, but rather identified widespread flaws in the system that allowed unsafe housing to be constructed and maintained.

Key recommendations focus on legislation and regulation

The report calls for changes in legislation and regulation.

Sir Martin recommends that the government consolidate responsibilities for fire safety and construction under a single regulator.

He suggests that statutory guidance, such as Approved Document B, be revised and updated.

Sir Martin also advises that the government should appoint a Chief Construction Adviser and emphasised the importance of including fresh perspectives from both academia and industry in the review process.

Professional accountability and fire safety competence

The inquiry uncovered misunderstandings and poor decisions made during the Grenfell Tower refurbishment.

Recommendations focus on improving the quality of fire safety work and enhancing accountability in higher-risk buildings.

It is suggested that fire safety strategies be made mandatory for high-risk buildings, and that the profession of fire engineer be legally recognised and regulated by an independent body.

Furthermore, accountability for fire safety must extend to senior managers involved in the design and construction process.

Addressing flaws in product testing and certification

One of the key findings of the inquiry was the role that cladding played in the spread of the fire.

Issues surrounding product testing and certification were highlighted, with some individuals accused of manipulating test data.

To address these flaws, the report recommends the development of new testing methods and greater transparency in product certification.

A construction regulator would oversee product conformity, and manufacturers would be required to disclose all relevant test data.

FPA calls for action on Grenfell recommendations

The FPA fully supports the recommendations outlined in the Grenfell Inquiry’s Phase 2 report.

According to FPA Chief Executive Dr Gavin Dunn: “It is imperative that everyone involved… reflect on what has happened… but most crucially, what needs to now be done differently.”

The FPA will monitor government responses and continue to offer guidance to ensure these changes are effectively implemented.

Over the coming weeks, expert analysis from the FPA will focus on the implications of the report for the fire safety sector.

Fire Protection Association supports Grenfell Inquiry’s phase 2 recommendations for fire safety reform: Summary

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report highlights significant systemic failures in fire safety and construction.

Key recommendations focus on unifying fire safety regulation, updating statutory guidance, and improving accountability among professionals.

The report also addresses the shortcomings in product testing and certification.

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) supports the recommendations, emphasising the need for reflection and change to prevent a similar tragedy.

The report outlines the importance of recognising fire engineers as a regulated profession and improving the quality of fire risk assessments.

The FPA has pledged to support the government and stakeholders in implementing these changes.

Over the coming weeks, the FPA will provide expert analysis and guidance on the report’s findings and their impact on the fire safety sector.

FPAS scheme extended

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Engineering

FPA Australia has negotiated with the Building Commission NSW for a one-year extension to the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme (FPAS) transition period. Additionally, FPA Australia’s approval to act as an accreditation authority under the Building and Development Certifiers Act 2018 has been extended until 30 June, 2026.

The extension means all transitional practitioners will have an additional year to complete the training required to transition to qualified accreditation. Once transitioned, practitioners will still need to renew their accreditation and participate in CPD.

Our approach to the Building Commission NSW was based on feedback from members regarding hurdles experienced to achieve the required competencies.
As FPA Australia will not be seeking any further extensions to the FPAS transitional period, to ensure you retain your accreditation moving forward we strongly recommend transitioning to qualified by the new deadline.

FPA Australia recognises the efforts of those who have already attained qualified accreditation. We have revised our FSA and FSD registers to indicate whether a measure/category held by the practitioner is transitional or qualified. We’re also enhancing certificates for qualified practitioners by adding the term “Qualified” and exploring options for providing marketing materials that highlight their qualified accreditation status to clients.

The extension of the approval for FPA Australia to act as an accreditation authority indicates the trust Building Commission NSW has in the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme and our commitment to professionalism within the industry. We aspire to continue administering the FPAS in NSW as an accreditation authority for many years to come.

For more information, go to www.fpaa.com.au

Be Ready This National Preparedness Month with Resources from the NVFC

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsProjectsPublic EventsTraining

On September 11, 2001, hundreds of first responders made the ultimate sacrifice while trying to save others. Twenty-three years after the tragic events of that day, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) remembers and honors their bravery and selflessness.

The NVFC is here to support you. September is National Preparedness Month, and the NVFC has the following resources to help you and your department be safe, healthy, and ready for the next emergency.

NVFC membership also comes with a myriad of benefits, including the NVFC First Responder Helpline, AD&D policy, free training, access to the Volunteer Voices member community, and more

For more information, go to www.nvfc.org

NFPA and Mike Holt Enterprises Collaborate to Publish 2026 NEC Changes Book

by Associations and OrganisationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) and Mike Holt Enterprises announced their collaboration in publishing a book that explains the key changes in the next edition of NFPA 70®, National Electrical Code® (NEC®). The book, titled Changes to the National Electrical Code®, 2026 edition, is the latest project following their collaboration on the publication of the 2023 NEC changes book. This new book will feature full color illustrations and photos, insightful commentary, technical clarifications, and a general review of the code. Electrical professionals, including electricians, electrical contractors, engineers, and inspectors, will find it a valuable resource for understanding the NEC.

“This book will absolutely be the best resource for understanding the changes in the revised 2026 edition of the NEC. It’s the only NEC changes book officially recognized by NFPA,” said Jim Pauley, NFPA president and CEO. “We are excited to partner with Mike Holt Enterprises once again to advance NFPA’s safety mission and bring this information to professionals responsible for understanding and applying NEC requirements.”

The NEC is the most widely used code in the United States and is used extensively across the globe to safeguard people and property from electrical hazards. To incorporate the latest technologies, research, and learnings, the NEC is updated every three years.

“The NEC remains the essential resource for everyone who works in the electrical industry,” said Mike Holt, president of Mike Holt Enterprises. “We are thrilled to be partnering once again with NFPA to meet today’s electrical safety challenges and to help electrical professionals understand the changes in the 2026 edition. It is an honor to develop products based on the NEC that help individuals understand and apply the code easily to their work. The new edition will include hundreds of detailed graphics and photos, and in-depth analysis on the changes.”

Holt has devoted his career to studying and understanding the National Electrical Code and has published his Illustrated Guide to Changes to the NEC for over 40 years.

The Changes to the National Electrical Code®, 2026 edition book will be available in Fall 2025 through NFPA and Mike Holt Enterprises. The 2023 edition, Changes to the National Electrical Code®, is currently available to purchase on the NFPA website and Mike Holt Enterprises website.

About the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)  

Founded in 1896, NFPA® is a global, self-funded, nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. The association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach and advocacy; and by partnering with others who share an interest in furthering the NFPA mission. For more information, visit www.nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be viewed online for free at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.  

Mike Holt Enterprises has been serving the electrical industry for over 50 years, creating and publishing books, videos, online training, and curriculum support for electrical trainers, students, organizations, and electrical professionals. Mike Holt is an author, businessman, educator, speaker, publisher, and National Electrical Code® expert. He has written hundreds of electrical training books and articles, founded three successful businesses, and has taught thousands of electrical code seminars across the US and internationally.

Fire Service Cultural Competency Certificate Program – Washington, D.C.

by Americas - EventsAssociations and OrganisationsEventsHealth and SafetyHealthcare

We are excited to invite you to the Fire Service Cultural Competency Certificate Program in Washington, D.C., presented by FSPA and the DC Fire & EMS Department. This UNIQUE and immersive program offers 7 Continuing Education (CE) credits, making it an invaluable opportunity for psychologists and masters-level mental health clinicians to gain unique insights into the world of firefighting and emergency medical services. The program will take place in conjunction with FSPA’s 7th Annual Conference, but attendance at the conference is not required for enrolment in this comprehensive training.

The program will take place in conjunction with FSPA’s 7th Annual Conference on October 3&4, but attendance at the conference is not required for enrolment in this comprehensive training.

Program Schedule:

Day 1: Fire Operations 101
• Date: October 2nd
• Location: DC Fire & EMS Training Facility
• Time: 0800-1600 hrs. EDT
Participants will experience realistic firefighting scenarios, including live fire, search and rescue, aerial ladder operations, and medical emergencies such as overdose response.

Day 2: Understanding Fire Service Culture
• Date: October 5th
• Location: DC Fire & EMS Training Facility
• Time: 0800-1600 hrs. EDT
This classroom session will provide a deeper understanding of the unique cultural aspects of the fire service, including performance standards, trauma exposure, and psychological demands.

Participants will also have the opportunity to complete 40 hours of ride-alongs with DC Fire & EMS and receive additional consultation hours to ensure proficiency in fire service psychology.

FSPA’s Cultural Competency Training is unique from other programs because participants will also have the opportunity to complete 40 hours of ride-alongs with fire departments near their practice and receive additional consultation hours to ensure proper support and proficiency as they learn to work with firefighters.  

Space is limited! Click Here to sign up today and secure your spot. For any questions or special accommodation requests, please contact us at info@firepsychology.org.  

We look forward to seeing you in D.C.!

Best regards, Kristen Wheldon Founder, Fire Service Psychology Association

NFPA, New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, and Joey Gase Motorsports drive home fire safety awareness at community event and Watkins Glen Speedway NASCAR race

by Americas - EventsAssociations and Organisations

Gase and car wrapped with Sparky the Fire Dog® will be featured at The Yard FLX community event on September 12, NASCAR Xfinity Series race on September 14.

The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, and Joey Gase Motorsports, LLC are teaming up to drive home the importance of fire safety for communities in Upstate New York. The collaboration between NFPA, Gase, and fire officials is part of an ongoing, collaborative effort to promote Fire Prevention Week™, October 6-12, 2024 and this year’s theme, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you.™”

On Thursday, September 12, from 4-7 pm, NFPA and Gase, along with local and state public safety officials, are hosting  a community event at The Yard FLX go-kart track. Open to the public, area residents will have the opportunity to meet Gase and check out his race car on display while enjoying fire safety activities that reinforce the importance of working smoke alarms and having a home escape plan, including a fire safety house provided by the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control. Sparky the Fire Dog®, the official NFPA mascot, will also be on-site to greet guests and take pictures together. Some attendees will also get the chance to race against Gase during the festivities.

NFPA is sponsoring Gase in a series of NASCAR race events, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series event at the Watkins Glen Speedway on Saturday, September 14 at 3:30 pm.

“Our work with Joey has demonstrated the value and impact of delivering potentially life-saving fire safety messages to thousands of NASCAR fans and surrounding communities,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “Continuing our work together helps further these messages and maximize the reach and impact of Fire Prevention Week, our biggest public awareness campaign of the year.”

Over the past few months, NFPA has also sponsored Gase at races in Newton, IA and Daytona Beach, FL. Additional races and community events will be sponsored in Talladega, AL and Charlotte, NC, and in surrounding communities in the weeks ahead.

“We are pleased to partner with NFPA on this family-friendly event,” said New York State Fire Administrator James B. Cable. “Helping educate the community about fire safety, especially in the home, can go a long way to prevent the devastation that can come with a fire.”

This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you” focuses on the importance of having working smoke alarms. According to NFPA’s latest smoke alarms report, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a fire by more than half (60 percent). However, the majority of U.S. home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. 

“It’s an honor to work with NFPA and help remind people that home fires can and do still happen, and that they need to be prepared in the event of one,” said Joey Gase, owner and driver for Joey Gase Motorsports. “My hope in working together is that we can motivate people to take action around home fire safety, which includes taking simple but important steps like making sure they have working smoke alarms in their homes and testing them regularly.”

Fire Prevention Week is celebrated throughout America every October and is the oldest U.S. public health observance on record. For more than 100 years, Fire Prevention Week has worked to educate people the risk of home fires and ways to minimize them. Local fire departments, schools, and community organizations play a key role in bringing Fire Prevention Week to life in their communities each year and spreading basic but critical fire safety messages.