NAFDI approves FPA fire door inspection course

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire DoorsTraining

Course approval by National Association of Fire Door Inspectors

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has announced that its Level 3 Award Fire Door Inspection course has been officially recognised by the National Association of Fire Door Inspectors (NAFDI).

This recognition marks a significant milestone for the FPA, as NAFDI is the UK’s leading organisation for fire door inspection.

The course, spanning three days, educates trainees on various aspects of fire doors, including their types, functions, and the importance of adhering to industry standard inspection procedures.

NAFDI has endorsed the FPA course as both a competency and an advanced training course.

This approval enables those who have completed the FPA Level 3 Certification to apply for NAFDI membership and request certification from this recognised body.

Comprehensive nature and practical focus of the course

A recent auditing session conducted by a NAFDI official on the FPA’s fire door inspection training highlighted the course’s comprehensive coverage of key topics.

This detailed approach ensures that participants gain a deep understanding of fire door principles and safety measures.

The course has been praised for its structured test focusing on inspection procedures, where participants are assessed on their ability to identify critical components, evaluate door functionality, and spot potential issues.

The practical aspect of the course requires hands-on application of knowledge, simulating real-world scenarios.

This element is crucial for participants to effectively translate their learning into practice.

Impact of the course’s approval on industry standards

Kelly Donoghue, Head of Training at the FPA, expressed her delight at this partnership with NAFDI, emphasising their shared goal of improving fire door inspection standards.

She said: “We are delighted to partner with NAFDI, with a common purpose of continuous improvement to the fire door inspection standards.

“Now our Fire Door Inspection Course has been approved as a competency course (where certification holders can be added to the NAFDI directory) and as an advanced training course (where practitioners can request a NAFDI certification directly through NAFDI), it provides additional evidence to the public when securing services.”

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of the FPA’s Fire Door Inspection Course by NAFDI enhances the credibility of the FPA’s training programme and contributes to the broader goal of raising fire safety standards across the industry.

Such developments are crucial in ensuring that professionals involved in fire door inspections are thoroughly trained and equipped with the necessary skills to maintain high safety standards.

Union leader’s pledge for widespread opposition to new anti-strike legislation

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

Union leader vows mass resistance to anti-strike laws

Union’s stance against the Minimum Service Levels Act

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has organised a national demonstration in Cheltenham to protest against the government’s newly introduced anti-union legislation, the Minimum Service Levels Act.

This event coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Thatcher government’s efforts to prohibit GCHQ employees from joining trade unions, a policy that was eventually overturned in 1997 by the Labour government following significant opposition and campaigning.

Matt Wrack, the General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, spoke ahead of the protest, highlighting the implications of the current government’s actions: “In its final months in office, this dying Tory government is seeking to prevent workers from striking even when they have a democratic mandate to do so.

“In the fire and rescue service, as in other sectors, this could amount to a de-facto strike ban.”

He emphasised the union movement’s refusal to accept what he described as an attack on fundamental democratic rights.

Trade union response and future plans

Wrack further commented on the government’s agenda, stating: “The Tories’ agenda is about driving down wages and conditions while the rich get richer.”

He announced the TUC’s commitment to a comprehensive campaign against the Minimum Service Levels Act, including the possibility of non-compliance.

Additionally, Wrack expressed optimism about a future Labour government, expecting it to repeal not only the Minimum Service Levels Act but also the 2016 Trade Union Act within its first 100 days.

Historical context and significance

The protest marks a significant historical moment, as it occurs on the anniversary of a similar struggle faced by GCHQ workers decades ago.

The government’s recent move to introduce the Minimum Service Levels Act has sparked controversy and drawn parallels to past attempts to limit union activities.

The TUC’s demonstration and the strong statements from union leaders like Matt Wrack reflect ongoing tensions between the government and trade unions over workers’ rights and the legality of strike actions.

SFPE Foundation funds three new fire safety research projects

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsResearch

The SFPE Foundation has announced the awarding of three research grants, supporting studies on Li-Ion Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) fires, fire testing of resilient and sustainable building materials, and the interface between digital buildings and fire service operations.

This funding aligns with the Grand Challenges Initiative research agenda, aiming to enhance scientific understanding of fire and its interactions.

Understanding Li-Ion BESS fires

The first project, led by Jamie McAllister (PhD, PE) of FireTox LLC, with team members Brandon McCarrick (PE) and Zelda Zhao, focuses on the environmental and health impacts of thermal runaway events in outdoor lithium-ion BESS installations.

The project aims to understand the health and environmental aspects of li-ion BESS fires, including products of combustion, factors influencing propagation, and firefighting tactics.

The team plans to develop a risk analysis of the health and environmental impacts of such fires.

Fire testing of building materials

The second project, under the leadership of Prof. Richard Walls (PhD, MSc, BScEng, GDE, BTh, PrEng) of Stellenbosch University, along with Dr. Natalia Flores-Quiroz, Yohannes Shewalul, and Carlo Kuhn of Ignis Testing, aims to identify sustainable building materials used in construction and their fire testing methods.

This study seeks to address potential fire risks not covered in existing testing methods through further experimental fire testing.

Digital buildings and fire service operations

The third project, led by Dr. Nils Johansson of Lund University, with Dr. Enrico Ronchi and Dr. Katelynn Kapalo, focuses on the flow of digital information from smart buildings to the fire service.

It aims to optimise this flow and integrate data from Smart Firefighting tools for use by incident commanders.

Leslie Marshall, PhD, Director of the SFPE Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the projects: “We are thrilled that the funding made possible through the Grand Challenges Initiative has enabled us to support not just two, but three exceptional research projects.

“Each project and its dedicated team promise to bring invaluable results and advance the 10-year plan outlined in the GCI white papers.”

The Grand Challenges Initiative, supported by SFPE, Fire Safety Research Institute/UL Research Institutes, Code Red Consultants, FM Global, Harrington Group, Jensen Hughes, and other partners, focuses on pressing global challenges where fire safety science and engineering can contribute to discussions and solutions.

IFSJ Comment

The SFPE Foundation’s funding of these three research projects marks a significant step in addressing key challenges in fire safety engineering and science.

The selected projects cover a wide range of topics, from the environmental and health impacts of Li-Ion BESS fires to the integration of digital technology in fire service operations.

These studies reflect a growing need to understand and mitigate fire risks in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, where traditional fire safety measures may not always apply.

The outcomes of this research will contribute to the scientific community and have practical implications for fire safety professionals, policymakers, and the general public.

By focusing on both the immediate and long-term impacts of fire, the SFPE Foundation demonstrates a comprehensive approach to enhancing fire safety and prevention strategies globally.

NFCC introduces new data management framework for fire and rescue services

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured News

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has recently launched a new Data Management Framework (DMF) to enhance the fire and rescue services’ (FRSs) adherence to good data management practices and associated legal requirements.

This framework aligns with and aids the implementation of the Data Management Fire Standard introduced last year.

Framework designed for all FRS staff

Crafted through extensive consultation with subject matter experts from the fire and rescue service sector, the DMF is intended for all members of a fire and rescue service.

This includes those in senior leadership, operational, non-operational, and data-related roles.

To facilitate a deeper understanding of the framework’s importance and relevance, an explanatory animation has been developed, alongside two NFCC online Implementation Workshops scheduled for the 21st and 28th of February.

Expert insights on the framework

Andy Hopkinson, Chair of the NFCC Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) Committee, emphasised the significance of data in fire and rescue services: “Data is one of the most valuable assets of a fire and rescue service.

It underpins decision-making and activity at all levels and across all areas of the service, and good management of data is important if a service is to maximise the data’s potential.

Services are also expected to have well-documented, high-quality, and robust data at local, regional, and national level that can be used effectively to aid improvements for the community.”

“The launch of the recent Data Management Fire Standard, now followed by the Data Management Framework, will help fire and rescue services to enhance their professionalism and data capabilities, delivering improved consistency across the sector.”

Guidance, not instruction

It is important to note that this framework does not provide step-by-step instructions for implementing the Data Management Fire Standard.

Instead, it offers guidance while recognising the diverse operational contexts and governance arrangements of fire and rescue services.

The framework includes statutory data protection requirements, data competencies and associated resources, document templates, and a reference library of established national and regional data sets.

NFCC supporting guidance documents

Several specific guidance documents related to data management have been published by NFCC, including:

  • Corporate guidance for operational activity: Data and information management.
  • Data and Business Intelligence Guidance.
  • Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Data Toolkit.
  • Standard Data Requirements for the Person-Centred Framework Guidance.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the NFCC’s Data Management Framework marks a significant step in the advancement of data management within the UK’s fire and rescue services.

By providing a comprehensive guide and resources, the NFCC aims to elevate the standards of data handling and utilisation across the sector, ensuring that decision-making processes are informed, effective, and ultimately beneficial for the community.

This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the critical role that data plays in modern public safety operations, highlighting a shift towards more data-driven approaches.

As fire and rescue services continue to face diverse challenges, the implementation of such frameworks will be crucial in enhancing their ability to respond effectively, efficiently, and safely.

FPA introduces fire safety e-learning to meet industry needs for flexible and accessible training

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has announced the launch of its new e-learning provision, designed to meet the growing demand for flexible and accessible fire safety training methods.

This initiative marks a significant step in the FPA’s commitment to enhancing fire safety education and making it more adaptable to individual needs.

A new era in fire safety training

The FPA’s e-learning provision aims to provide a range of learning solutions to cater to all learners, offering an alternative to traditional training methods.

With the objective of making fire safety education more accessible, this new suite of e-courses is available 24/7, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace and on a schedule that fits their lifestyle.

Benefits for learners and organisations

The e-courses are designed to be engaging and informative, incorporating videos, animations, and interactive activities to facilitate learning.

They cater to various learning styles with text, visual, and audio inputs, and provide instant feedback through assessments.

For organisations, e-learning offers a faster learning cycle, scalability, and reduced carbon footprint by eliminating the need for physical infrastructure and travel.

Courses available in the e-learning portfolio

The FPA’s e-learning portfolio includes courses such as ‘The Role of a Fire Warden’, ‘Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)’, ‘Hot Work and Permit to Work’, and ‘Fire Door Inspections: the Basics’.

Each course is tailored to equip individuals with essential knowledge in fire safety.

Tailored e-learning solutions

Understanding that each organisation has unique training needs, the FPA offers customised e-learning courses.

These tailored solutions ensure that the content directly addresses specific organisational roles and responsibilities, and can be integrated into an organisation’s Learning Management System for progress tracking.

A commitment to accessible education from the FPA

Kelly Donoghue, Head of Training at the FPA, expressed enthusiasm about the new e-learning initiative: “The launch of e-learning is not just a new service for the FPA but a promise and commitment to provide engaging, accessible, and future-ready education for all.

“Whether you are an individual looking to upskill or address a specific skills gap, or an organisation seeking tailored safety solutions with distinct requirements, our courses and team can meet your needs with material that is directly applicable to your organisation’s challenges.

“With e-learning, you can learn anytime, anywhere. We are excited about the possibilities this brings for our life-long learners.”

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of e-learning in fire safety by the FPA is a timely response to the evolving needs of the fire safety industry.

By offering flexible and accessible training methods, the FPA is ensuring that individuals and organisations can readily access vital fire safety education, essential for maintaining safety standards and compliance with regulations.

This development reflects a broader trend towards digital learning platforms, which are becoming increasingly crucial in providing effective and efficient training solutions in various sectors.

The FPA’s initiative is a significant step towards a more inclusive and adaptable approach to fire safety education, ensuring that learning opportunities are available to a wider audience, regardless of their geographical location or schedule constraints.

ASFP releases new and updated technical publications

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassive

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has made a significant contribution to the fire protection industry with the release of new and updated Advisory Notes (ANs) and Technical Guidance Documents (TGDs) in 2023.

Advisory Notes: Highlights and Updates

AN 32 – BS 476-based fire resistance testing on Eurocode designed structures: This new document discusses the relationship between design codes, test methods, and building regulations.

It provides assurance for current and near-future projects, pending the outcome of the Government’s consultation on BS 476 test methods.

AN 31 – Performance smoke seals in active curtain assemblies: Produced in response to market feedback, this new AN addresses the use of smoke seals and the relevance of the S smoke leakage classification.

Updates to Existing ANs:

AN 1, ‘Fire and Your Legal Liability’, has been revised to reflect legislative changes.

AN 2, ‘Indicative or Ad-Hoc Testing Essential Information’, now includes updated information on third-party certification and fire testing types.

AN 7 – Guidance on Horizontal linear gap seals: This note recommends testing horizontal linear gap seals in curtain walls to BS EN 1364-4, clarifying that results from BS EN 1366-4 are not applicable for this use.

AN 22 – Compatibility between pipes and acoustic or firestopping Seals: Updated recommendations include guidance for installing short metal pipes and sound/firestopping products with cPVC pipes, emphasizing compatibility issues and the avoidance of welding/soldering hot works.

Technical Guidance Documents: Key Introductions

TGD 21 – UKCA and CE marking of operable fabric curtains: This document highlights the conformity assessment requirements for active curtains under the Construction Products Regulations and the Machinery Directive, noting potential changes following the Building Safety Act.

TGD 23 – Compliance with Irish Building and Fire Safety Regulations: A new Code of Practice to assist with compliance under the Building Control Act 1990 and Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003, offering an overview of legislation and design/installation considerations.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Directions

The ASFP’s library of guidance documents is continuously reviewed and updated to meet industry needs.

These publications underscore the ASFP’s commitment to advancing fire protection standards and offering relevant, practical guidance to industry professionals.

For more information on the ASFP, passive fire protection training, and advice, visit their website.

IFSJ Comment

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection‘s latest release of advisory notes and technical guidance documents marks a notable advancement in fire safety and protection standards.

The ASFP’s continuous effort to update and introduce new publications reflects the dynamic nature of fire risks and the evolving landscape of fire safety regulations.

This proactive approach ensures that professionals in the field are equipped with the latest knowledge and tools to effectively manage fire risks and comply with regulatory requirements.

ASFP sets up new headquarters in Coventry, enhancing training capabilities

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassive

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced its relocation to a new head office in Coventry, marking a significant step in its growth and development.

The move to the new premises, which will occur in two phases, is set to enhance the association’s ability to support its members through expanded services and facilities.

New facilities to enhance member support

The first phase of the move has seen the ASFP team settle into the first-floor office space of the new building.

The second phase will introduce the ground floor ASFP Academy, an extensive training facility.

The new premises will not only include office spaces but also feature practical training facilities, catering services, meeting areas, and break-out or rest areas.

Additionally, it will provide a permanent home for the renowned ASFPTV.

ASFP Academy: A hub for training and meetings

The ground floor of the new building, set to open in the second phase, will house the ASFP Academy.

This area is designed to offer comprehensive training facilities, along with the Association’s board room and meeting rooms.

These spaces will be available for both ASFP members and non-members, offering preferential rental rates.

Statement from the managing director

Mike Ward, the Managing Director of ASFP, expressed his enthusiasm about the move: “Having spent several months acquiring and developing our new building to provide modern facilities which will meet the growing needs of the Association and its members, we are excited to finally move into our own office facilities – for the first time in the Association’s history.

“We are hugely grateful to the British Coatings Federation for hosting us in their offices and providing administrative services for the last three years.

However, we feel that the Association is finally coming of age, and we are delighted to finally have ASFP premises of our own.

“We will soon be publishing details of our official opening event and look forward to welcoming members and other stakeholders into our new office facilities and Academy over the coming months.”

Contact details and additional information

From 1 January 2024, the ASFP’s new contact details are: Association for Specialist Fire Protection, Unit A West Oak House, Westwood Business Park, Westwood Way, Coventry, CV4 8HS.

The telephone and email details remain unchanged.

For further information on the ASFP and for passive fire protection training and advice, interested parties are encouraged to visit their website.

IFSJ Comment

The ASFP’s move to a new head office in Coventry represents a noteworthy development in the field of fire protection.

The expansion into a larger space with enhanced facilities, including the ASFP Academy, signifies the Association’s commitment to advancing fire safety education and support for its members.

This transition not only facilitates the provision of comprehensive training but also underscores the ASFP’s role as a central figure in promoting and upholding industry standards.

The move is a reflection of the growth and evolution of the Association, demonstrating its readiness to meet the dynamic needs of the fire protection industry.

SFPE schedules 2024 Fire Safety Conference & Expo on Performance-Based Design

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

SFPE announces 2024 conference details

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has announced that its 2024 Fire Safety Conference & Expo on Performance-Based Design will be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 17-19 April.

This biennial event, hosted every other year, is recognized globally for its contributions to advancements in performance-based fire protection design.

Conference to feature global experts and a wide range of topics

The conference will feature over 45 presentations and 6 case study team presentations.

Topics include evacuation, timber structures, performance-based design framework and applications, sustainability design, digitalization, fire dynamics, battery fire hazards, and the latest research and innovation projects in the field.

Wojciech Węgrzyński, PhD, will deliver the opening keynote.

Pre-conference seminars and unique opportunities for attendees

Two pre-conference seminars are planned: ‘Introduction to Fire Risk Assessment’ and ‘Substantiating the Suitability of a Fire Model’.

Attendees also have the opportunity to visit The Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology (DBI) in Copenhagen, where they can witness a live fire test.

Expo to showcase latest products and innovations

The conference will also feature an expo where leading companies will showcase their latest products and services.

IFSJ Comment

The 2024 SFPE Fire Safety Conference & Expo presents an important opportunity for professionals in fire protection and safety engineering to gather, share knowledge, and discuss the latest advancements in the field.

The range of topics and the inclusion of global experts highlight the conference’s commitment to addressing current and future challenges in fire safety and protection.

This event is a platform for learning and collaboration and underscores the continuous evolution and importance of performance-based design in fire safety.

Such conferences play a pivotal role in shaping the future of fire safety practices and policies, benefiting both professionals and the broader community.

Fire Brigades Union expresses concerns over proposed deregulation of furniture safety standards

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has raised alarms over a government proposal to revise furniture safety regulations, warning that the potential deregulation could lead to an increase in fatalities.

This concern arises amidst the government’s contemplation of significant reforms in fire safety regulations, particularly affecting furniture standards and building safety.

Fire safety regulations under scrutiny

Introduced in 1988, the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations mandate manufacturers to conduct independent flammability testing on furniture.

These measures have been credited with saving an estimated 50 to 70 lives annually.

However, the Westminster government has recently proposed shifting from these stringent rules to a more voluntary regime.

This proposal follows a consultation period on the plans, which concluded earlier in the year, with ministers currently considering the proposed changes.

Union’s standpoint on safety and deregulation

Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the FBU, expressed grave concerns regarding the government’s direction.

He highlighted the importance of the current regulations in saving lives and argued that the advent of new hazards, such as lithium batteries, necessitates more, not less, regulation.

Wrack also pointed to the Grenfell Tower disaster as a tragic reminder of the consequences of profit-driven deregulation.

In his words: “We had hoped that the Grenfell Tower disaster would make ministers wake up to the dangers of profit-driven de-regulation.

It seems they have learned nothing.

Ministers must think again.”

Government perspective and environmental considerations

On the other side of the debate, there are arguments in favor of revising these regulations.

The UK government aims to upgrade its Furniture Fire Safety regulations to enhance safety provisions and encourage the introduction of newer, innovative materials.

Additionally, scientists and the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee have raised concerns about the environmental and health impacts of flame-retardant chemicals currently incentivized by the existing regulations.

Global policy shifts and scientific evidence

The need for revision is further emphasized by changes in international policy responses and evolving scientific evidence regarding the use of flame-retardant chemicals (CFRs).

This ongoing scientific dialogue reflects a global reevaluation of fire safety standards, particularly concerning furniture and furnishings.

IFSJ Comment

The debate over the proposed deregulation of furniture safety standards in the UK presents a critical juncture in fire safety policy.

On one hand, the Fire Brigades Union’s concerns highlight the potential risk to human life, drawing upon decades of safety regulation history and the lessons from tragedies like Grenfell Tower.

On the other, the government’s intention to revise these regulations, driven by environmental concerns and the advancement of safety materials, signifies a shift towards a modern approach to fire safety.

This situation underscores the need for a balanced perspective that prioritizes public safety while embracing technological and scientific advancements.

The outcome of this debate will have profound implications for fire safety standards, the manufacturing industry, and public health in the UK.

IFSJ Influencer Insight: John S. Butler, International Association of Fire Chiefs President

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsIFSJ Influencers

‘The prevention of fire incidents should always be a top priority.’

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, the fire and emergency services industry faces ongoing challenges and promising opportunities. The fire service has always been a dynamic and ever-evolving field, and 2023 has posed its fair share of challenges for fire and emergency services. We’ve seen the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires. Climate change is pushing us to adapt and innovate, and it’s time for us to step up our game.

To address this challenge, we need a multifaceted approach that includes bolstering our firefighting capabilities, enhancing community awareness and preparedness, and advocating for stronger climate action. As fire service leaders, it’s our duty to advocate for measures that can mitigate the effects of climate change and safeguard our communities.

I would like to share my thoughts on what lies ahead and the strategies to harness the potential that awaits us.

Regional threats in the fire service are becoming more complex and varied. In some regions, droughts and extreme heat are causing longer and more intense fire seasons. In others, rapid urbanisation and population growth are straining resources. Each region’s unique challenges require tailored solutions.

We must focus on strengthening regional partnerships, sharing best practices, and investing in research and technology that can help us combat threats specific to our areas. Cross-border cooperation and international collaboration are vital as well, as wildfires, for instance, often transcend national borders.

The fire and emergency services are no strangers to technological advancements. In 2024, we will see a surge in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that can improve both firefighter safety and operational efficiency. Drones, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence are among the innovations that are revolutionising our field.

Our challenge is to stay ahead of the curve and integrate these technologies into our operations effectively. Training and development programs should incorporate these new tools to ensure that our personnel are proficient in their use. Moreover, we must also be vigilant about data security and privacy, as technological advances often bring new vulnerabilities.

The prevention of fire incidents should always be a top priority. Risk mitigation strategies need to extend beyond firefighting to include community education, building codes, and land use planning. Prevention is cost-effective and saves lives.

As the fire and emergency services industry evolves, several growth sectors will emerge. Cybersecurity for emergency services, specialised response units for hazardous materials and biological threats, and the utilization of renewable energy sources in fire stations are areas where we can anticipate substantial growth. It is important for us to invest in research and training for these emerging fields.

The year ahead presents an array of challenges and opportunities. As leaders in this field, it is our responsibility to adapt, innovate, and advocate for the safety and well-being of our communities. Together, we can navigate the path ahead and make 2024 a year of continued progress and resilience.

About the IFSJ Influencer

John S. Butler, Fire Chief of Fairfax County and President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, possesses top credentials in fire, EMS, training, and marshal services. He chairs the National Fire Academy Board and serves on the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Board. A retired Marine, he was educated at Johns Hopkins and Harvard Universities.

This article was originally published in the December 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.