Etex Building Performance has reported an increase in employees holding the IFE Level 3 in Passive Fire Protection.
Derby College students gain PPE training through OHEAP partnership
OHEAP hosts workwear sessions for students
OHEAP Fire and Security has reported that it held a series of PPE-focused workwear events at Derby College Group’s Stevenson Building.
The company said the sessions ran over three weeks and supported students across engineering, building services, construction and automotive courses.
According to OHEAP Fire and Security, more than 400 students attended the events and had access to protective workwear used in industry.
It added that students spoke directly with PPE specialists about safety and compliance in the workplace.
The company stated that these conversations aimed to provide knowledge that students can use in their careers.
Six-year partnership with Derby College
OHEAP Fire and Security explained that it has partnered with Derby College for over six years.
The business said this partnership includes supplying students with protective workwear.
It added that the collaboration prepares students for workplace demands while encouraging safe skill development.
The organisation stated that its work with Derby College reflects its belief that safety and compliance should be accessible.
OHEAP Fire and Security commented that the relationship also helps students feel supported as they grow into future tradespeople.
Broader community and education engagement
The company reported that the partnership with Derby College highlights its commitment to the local community.
It said the collaboration demonstrates support for the education sector as part of its wider approach.
According to the company, investing in students helps strengthen the workforce of tomorrow.
It added that the initiative contributes to safeguarding skills development in key trades.
OHEAP Fire and Security explained that it views this as part of its responsibility to support both industry and education.
OHEAP’s wider service offering
OHEAP Fire and Security stated that it provides passive and active fire safety services across the Midlands.
The company said it supplies industry-grade PPE and first aid products.
It added that it also offers embroidery services tailored to workwear needs.
The organisation reported that this range of services supports both education providers and businesses.
It noted that the company’s decades of experience underpin its partnerships in the region.
Industry perspective on the events
Matthew Pickbourn, Manager of OHEAP Fire and Security’s Safety and Supplies Division, said: “These events have been a wonderful opportunity to support the next generation of skilled professionals.
“Our work with Derby College shows students how safety and compliance go hand in hand with success in their future careers.”
Future plans for collaboration
OHEAP Fire and Security reported that it is inviting more education providers to collaborate.
The company said it hopes to extend the model of student-focused safety events.
It added that engagement with industry partners could help strengthen workforce readiness.
The organisation explained that it aims to contribute to a safer and better-equipped future workforce.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This story is relevant for fire and safety professionals because it shows how PPE education is being integrated into vocational training.
The collaboration demonstrates how industry can engage with students to reinforce compliance.
It also illustrates how partnerships can prepare future workers for safe practice in high-risk fields.
For fire and safety professionals, this highlights the value of extending PPE awareness beyond current workplaces and into education settings.
Derby College students gain PPE training through OHEAP partnership: Summary
OHEAP Fire and Security reported that it held PPE events at Derby College Group.
The company said the sessions were hosted at the Stevenson Building.
It stated that the events supported students in engineering, construction, automotive and building services.
According to OHEAP Fire and Security, more than 400 students attended.
It added that students had access to protective workwear used in industry.
The company explained that students also spoke with PPE specialists.
It said these conversations highlighted safety and compliance requirements.
OHEAP Fire and Security stated that it has partnered with Derby College for six years.
The company said the partnership supplies students with protective workwear.
It added that the collaboration supports workplace readiness and safe skill development.
The organisation reported that it also helps students feel supported in their careers.
OHEAP Fire and Security stated that it provides fire safety, PPE, first aid and embroidery services.
The company said its services support both businesses and education providers.
Matthew Pickbourn said the events helped demonstrate how safety and compliance connect with success.
OHEAP Fire and Security reported that it hopes to work with more education providers in future.
BAFSA to launch new high rise sprinkler design course in 2026
The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) has announced that it will introduce a new FHC course in high rise and full hydraulic sprinkler design for non storage occupancies.
NFPA survey highlights AI and training in skilled trades
The NFPA 2025 survey highlights AI adoption, digital tools, training demand, certification gaps, and workforce pressures in the skilled trades sector.
Lisbon to host lithium-ion battery safety experts in November
Sfpe symposium to address lithium-ion battery fire safety
Event announced for Lisbon in November
The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has announced that it will hold the Engineering Solutions Symposium: Addressing European Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety Challenges in Lisbon, Portugal, from 11 to 13 November 2025.
According to SFPE, the event will focus on lithium-ion battery fire risks across sectors including consumer electronics, e-bikes, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.
The organisation said the symposium is intended to bring together researchers, engineers, manufacturers, insurers, facility managers, and first responders to discuss risk management, regulatory requirements, and design solutions.
It added that the three-day programme will include technical presentations, panel discussions, and opportunities for interactive dialogue.
Focus on lithium-ion battery hazards
SFPE explained that lithium-ion batteries are among the most pressing fire safety hazards in the sector, requiring updated approaches to system design, emergency response, and regulation.
The organisation said that delegates will examine battery hazard fundamentals, the mechanics of thermal runaway, and how fire safety codes are adapting to new risks.
It added that the event will also address mitigation strategies for high-risk applications, particularly in e-mobility, electric vehicles, and energy storage.
Learning objectives
SFPE outlined that the symposium’s learning objectives will include examining fire safety implications of new battery technologies and understanding thermal runaway.
It stated that further objectives will cover design and regulatory issues for energy storage systems, as well as the use of diagnostics and monitoring tools in safety management.
The organisation added that discussions will also assess the impact of battery fires on infrastructure and emergency response.
It said that the programme aims to promote collaboration between industry sectors to build safer battery ecosystems.
International committee
According to SFPE, the programme is guided by an international committee of experts.
The symposium will be co-chaired by Adam Barowy and Guillermo Rein, PhD.
The organisation explained that the committee includes researchers and practitioners representing academia, industry, and government agencies.
Site visit
SFPE confirmed that the symposium will close with a site visit.
It said that participants will tour a new data centre in Lisbon featuring a lithium-ion battery backup system.
The organisation explained that the visit is designed to provide attendees with a first-hand view of how safety systems are integrated into such facilities.
Registration details
SFPE reported that the symposium will be hosted at the Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa.
The organisation added that early-bird registration discounts are available until 10 October 2025.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The symposium provides fire and safety professionals with the opportunity to engage directly with current research on lithium-ion battery fire hazards.
The event highlights emerging risks associated with electric vehicles, e-mobility, and energy storage systems, which are increasingly relevant to operational and regulatory work in the sector.
It also offers practical insights into hazard assessment, code development, and mitigation strategies that can be applied in professional practice.
SFPE symposium to address lithium-ion battery fire safety: Summary
The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) will hold a symposium on lithium-ion battery fire safety in Lisbon from 11 to 13 November 2025.
The event will focus on risks in consumer electronics, e-bikes, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.
SFPE said the symposium will include technical sessions, panel discussions, and interactive dialogue.
The organisation explained that learning objectives cover thermal runaway, system design, regulations, diagnostics, and infrastructure impacts.
The programme is led by co-chairs Adam Barowy and Guillermo Rein, PhD, supported by an international committee.
The event will conclude with a site visit to a Lisbon data centre with a lithium-ion battery backup system.
The Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa will host the symposium.
Early-bird registration is open until 10 October 2025.
Is Gen Z the missing piece in solving the UK construction skills gap?
Industry facing shortage of workers
PlanRadar has reported that the UK construction industry is confronting a major skills gap, with more than 140,000 vacancies unfilled.
The company said this shortage is compounded by the fact that many experienced workers are approaching retirement age.
It explained that the traditional method of meeting demand by simply recruiting more people will not be enough to address the issue.
According to PlanRadar, new strategies will be required to secure the future workforce and ensure industry growth.
Rob Norton, UK Director at PlanRadar, said: “The construction industry faces a fundamental challenge: a signification talent void, with over 140,000 vacancies.
“This issue is compounded by a workforce that’s rapidly approaching retirement.
“The old playbook of simply ‘finding more people’ is no longer sufficient; the real solution will require a different approach.”
Gen Z as a digital solution
PlanRadar stated that younger generations, especially Gen Z, will play a key role in addressing the skills gap.
The company commented that Gen Z is recognised as the most digitally fluent generation to date and has a strong preference for meaningful work.
It added that these qualities make them well suited to help drive digital transformation within the sector.
Norton said: “Gen Z, the most digitally fluent generation in history, holds the key.
“Their ease with technology and desire for purposeful work can drive the digital transformation our sector needs.
“It is our responsibility to show today’s students, especially those checking their newly published GCSE results, that construction is a place where their digital skills are valued.”
Importance of training existing staff
PlanRadar noted that upskilling the existing workforce is also a priority.
The company indicated that digital tools in construction are becoming increasingly accessible, with user interfaces comparable to widely used consumer apps.
It said that empowering older workers to adopt these tools can improve efficiency and collaboration across all age groups.
Norton added: “While this generation’s digital fluency is a huge asset, it’s also true that we need to upskill our entire workforce.
“The good news is that using modern, digital construction tools is often as simple as using apps we already know, like WhatsApp.
“It’s about empowering everyone to work more efficiently and collaboratively, regardless of age.”
Digital future of construction
PlanRadar explained that the sector’s long-term stability depends on adopting digital working methods.
It said this requires industry-wide cooperation to align recruitment, training, and operational practices with technological change.
The organisation stressed that preparing both current and future employees to work with digital tools is essential.
Norton said: “We must embrace change and welcome the next generation of builders.
“The future of construction is digital, and we need to work together to build it.”
Timing linked to GCSE results
PlanRadar connected this message with the release of GCSE results in the UK.
It explained that this moment is an opportunity to highlight career paths in construction to young people who are considering future options.
The organisation stated that showing students how digital skills are valued in construction can help attract new entrants to the industry.
It added that engaging with students at this stage will be important to reduce the impact of the skills gap.
Addressing skills gaps in passive fire protection: UK report outlines recommendations
Passive fire protection in the UK faces workforce, training, and awareness challenges
According to the final report published by the PFP Skills Group, the passive fire protection (PFP) sector in the United Kingdom is facing a series of structural issues related to workforce development, qualifications, and training consistency.
The report details findings from an extensive review of the sector and offers 14 recommendations to improve recruitment, upskilling, and professional standards.
The PFP Skills Group comprises over 60 organisations, including trade associations, employers, training providers, and government representatives.
The report was commissioned following concerns raised by industry professionals, regulators, and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry about the competency of individuals working in life-critical PFP roles.
The group’s work was supported by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and facilitated by the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP).
Workforce shortages and recruitment barriers
A key issue highlighted in the report is the lack of new entrants into the PFP sector.
The group found that the workforce is ageing and often relies on informal routes into employment.
Few structured pathways exist for young people or career changers to enter the sector.
This has contributed to a shortage of qualified professionals, particularly in inspection and installation roles.
Employers report difficulties in finding suitably trained workers, and limited public understanding of PFP has affected recruitment.
The sector is also underrepresented in broader construction careers materials, reducing its visibility among school leavers and jobseekers.
The report recommends launching a campaign to raise awareness of PFP careers and creating more direct training and qualification routes.
It also suggests building closer links between industry and education providers to improve progression into the sector.
Training provision lacks standardisation
The report identifies inconsistencies in how PFP training is delivered and assessed.
While multiple training providers offer courses, there is no central oversight to ensure alignment with sector needs or national qualification frameworks.
Some courses lack clear quality benchmarks or are not formally accredited.
This creates confusion for employers and learners, and can result in competency gaps among workers.
The group calls for a clearer framework for PFP qualifications and urges training providers to align their content with industry-recognised standards.
Among the recommendations are the development of new apprenticeship standards and modular training pathways covering the full range of PFP disciplines.
The report also encourages the use of digital learning tools and remote access training to improve accessibility.
Competency and regulatory alignment
Concerns about the competency of those working in PFP were raised during the Grenfell Inquiry and remain a central issue for the sector.
The report outlines how the absence of defined competency criteria has led to variability in inspection, design, and installation quality.
The report recommends that government and industry collaborate to define competency criteria for all PFP roles, aligned with the UK’s wider building safety reforms and the new Building Safety Regulator’s requirements.
This would support the professionalisation of the sector and ensure a common baseline of knowledge and skills.
The group also highlights the need for improved guidance and technical documentation.
This includes the development of best practice materials to support on-site decision-making and reduce reliance on informal or anecdotal approaches.
Strategic coordination and governance
Throughout the report, the group identifies a lack of sector-wide coordination as a barrier to addressing skills issues.
Multiple organisations have responsibility for training, qualifications, and promotion, but there is no single body overseeing development across the UK.
To address this, the group proposes the establishment of a formal PFP Skills Group to oversee implementation of the report’s recommendations.
This would include representatives from trade bodies, employers, government, and training providers.
A central part of the group’s role would be to track progress against the 14 recommendations and ensure alignment with wider construction skills initiatives.
The report also suggests securing longer-term funding and engagement with devolved administrations to deliver consistency across the UK.
Summary of recommendations
The PFP Skills Final Report includes the following recommendations:
- Raise public and professional awareness of passive fire protection as a career.
- Improve pathways into the sector for school leavers and career changers.
- Establish a framework of qualifications and modular learning options.
- Expand and formalise apprenticeship standards in PFP disciplines.
- Align all training provision to agreed sector competencies.
- Develop digital training content to improve access and flexibility.
- Improve training materials and sector guidance on best practice.
- Establish and maintain a competency framework for PFP roles.
- Introduce clear job role definitions and expectations across the sector.
- Promote the uptake of third-party certification for training providers.
- Develop an accreditation system for qualifications and courses.
- Establish a new PFP Skills Group to oversee implementation.
- Secure sustained funding and industry support for skills development.
- Ensure policy alignment with wider construction and building safety reforms.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The construction skills gap has direct implications for fire and safety professionals, as workforce shortages may delay project timelines and compliance efforts.
Upskilling employees on digital tools can support more accurate tracking of fire safety requirements during construction.
Engaging younger workers could ensure that future fire safety standards are met consistently in a digital-first environment.
Industry-wide collaboration between construction and fire safety professionals will be necessary to strengthen compliance while addressing the workforce gap.
UK construction faces urgent skills gap challenge: Summary
PlanRadar reported that the UK construction industry has more than 140,000 vacancies.
It said many experienced workers are approaching retirement.
It explained that recruitment alone will not address the shortage.
PlanRadar stated that Gen Z’s digital fluency offers a solution.
It said younger workers want purposeful careers and are comfortable with technology.
It added that their skills can support digital transformation.
PlanRadar noted that existing staff must also be trained in digital tools.
It stated that these systems are comparable to apps like WhatsApp.
It explained that adoption can improve efficiency and collaboration.
The organisation said the industry must embrace digital change.
It linked the message to the release of GCSE results.
It said students should be shown that their skills are valued.
It explained that promoting digital careers could reduce the skills gap.
PlanRadar stated that collaboration will be needed to secure the future workforce.
It added that the future of construction is digital.
What firefighters learned inside London’s historic Royal Academy of Music during an emergency rescue drill
Fires at historic buildings in London
London Fire Brigade has reported that 282 fires occurred at historic buildings in the capital between July 2024 and June 2025.
The Brigade said the figures show why heritage sites must maintain current salvage plans to protect buildings and collections during emergencies.
In 2024, Somerset House was affected by a fire, and crews carried out life-saving procedures before moving to protect the building’s cultural assets.
The Brigade explained that this incident highlights the importance of rehearsed salvage planning alongside firefighting operations.
It added that protecting lives remains the top priority, followed by preserving the building and its contents where possible.
Training exercise at the Royal Academy of Music
London Fire Brigade firefighters recently trained at the Royal Academy of Music in Marylebone to practise emergency rescue and salvage operations.
The exercise involved crews from Hendon, Kentish Town and West Hampstead Fire Stations, with a Command Unit from Park Royal Fire Station.
The Brigade confirmed that the mock incident took place at the Grade II listed building near Regent’s Park.
It said the aim was to test the joint response between firefighters and the Academy’s collections team during a simulated 999 call.
The Brigade added that staff and firefighters practised how to remove or protect historic artefacts safely.
Salvage planning and priorities
London Fire Brigade’s Heritage Co-ordinator, Sub Officer Mark Huntington said: “As London’s rescue service our priority is always to preserve life, then the building and its contents.
“If you have pre-prepared plans, and know your building, you’ll protect lives, utilise valuable time and save more of your building and its contents.
“These plans are vital as they detail not only actions that should be implemented by site staff, but also clearly identify priority items which need to be removed from the building or left protected, in situ, which the Brigade can assist with.”
The Brigade explained that these plans are intended to streamline operations during emergencies.
It added that such preparation allows crews to act faster and more effectively.
Firefighting tactics and preparedness
Station Commander Adam Lawson said: “This exercise with the Royal Academy of Music was an excellent opportunity to ensure we can effectively preserve items of historical significance.
“Crews practised firefighting tactics and put plans into practical use to ensure procedures were effective in the event of a fire, ensuring that firefighters and The Academy are now fully prepared should the worst happen.”
The Brigade confirmed that training exercises of this type form part of its wider preparedness strategy.
It said drills allow operational procedures to be tested before real incidents occur.
Collaboration with the Academy
Dean of Students at the Academy, Elizabeth Kenny, said: “Our Collections Team, led by Head of Collections Susana Caldeira, worked closely with the Brigade on this practical exercise, testing and sense-checking our emergency salvage procedures.
“We found the collaboration very productive and valuable, from first contact to preparing and delivering the exercise across our heritage site.”
The Academy said it intends to use the outcomes of the exercise to strengthen internal salvage procedures.
It added that working directly with the Brigade gave staff greater awareness of their roles during emergencies.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The Brigade’s report highlights the number of fires at historic buildings in London and underlines the importance of planning for both life safety and cultural preservation.
Fire safety professionals can see from this case how pre-prepared salvage plans can be integrated into emergency response.
The training also shows the value of close cooperation between building staff and firefighters in protecting heritage assets.
Emergency rescue training at Royal Academy of Music: Summary
London Fire Brigade reported 282 fires at historic buildings in London between July 2024 and June 2025.
The Brigade said the figures show the importance of salvage planning at heritage sites.
In 2024, Somerset House was affected by fire and salvage operations protected cultural assets.
The Brigade confirmed it carried out a training exercise at the Royal Academy of Music in Marylebone.
Crews from Hendon, Kentish Town, West Hampstead and Park Royal stations attended the drill.
The exercise simulated a 999 call at the Grade II listed building near Regent’s Park.
The Brigade said firefighters worked with the Academy’s collections team on artefact preservation.
Sub Officer Mark Huntington said prepared plans save lives, time and heritage items.
Station Commander Adam Lawson said the exercise improved salvage preparedness.
Dean of Students Elizabeth Kenny said the collaboration tested the Academy’s salvage procedures.
IAFF secures $8 million for Hazmat response training
Federal grant supports firefighter training in hazardous materials response
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has confirmed that it has received more than $8 million in federal funding to expand its Hazmat response training.
According to the IAFF, the five-year grant is the largest in its history and was awarded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).
The funding will strengthen the IAFF’s Hazardous Waste Worker Training Program and Hazmat Disaster Preparedness training courses.
It will also support the development of new instructional materials that the IAFF said are intended to modernise approaches to firefighter training.
General President Edward Kelly said: “The longstanding partnership between the IAFF and the NIEHS has been vital to many of the advancements in fire fighter safety and training we’ve accomplished.
“These funds will ensure we continue to provide fire fighters with the training, knowledge, and tools they need to address hazardous materials emergencies and keep themselves and their communities safe.”
Training expansion and new course delivery
The IAFF reported that nearly 4,000 firefighters were certified in Hazmat response under its previous five-year federal grant.
The union said that the new award will allow training for an additional 6,500 firefighters over the next five years.
It added that the funding would also help advance the IAFF’s “Responding to Renewable Energy Emergencies” programme.
That course, launched earlier this year, provides instruction on managing electric vehicle fires and other incidents linked to renewable energy.
The organisation explained that these scenarios are increasingly present in modern firefighting operations.
Partnership with NIEHS
The IAFF explained that its collaboration with the NIEHS has continued for several decades.
The group said the relationship has supported the design of training aimed at preparing firefighters for hazardous material incidents.
It added that the funding helps ensure personnel can access knowledge and skills necessary to work safely in these environments.
The union commented that the renewal of the partnership would carry forward initiatives that it views as central to firefighter safety.
Kelly added: “This funding will ensure we continue to provide fire fighters the training, knowledge, and tools they need to address hazardous materials emergencies and keep themselves and their communities safe.”
Development of drone training
The IAFF confirmed that part of the new grant will go towards creating a drone training programme for the fire service.
The union explained that this will be the first comprehensive course of its kind for the sector.
It said the training would focus on operational use of drones in emergency settings.
The IAFF added that the programme would also help participants prepare for the Federal Aviation Administration’s remote pilot certification exam.
The group said it expects drones to play a greater role in fireground operations in the future.
Supporting modernisation of the fire service
The IAFF noted that the grant will be used not only for direct Hazmat training but also for the production of updated learning materials.
The union explained that these resources are intended to make training more relevant to current and emerging risks.
It said that part of the funding would go towards instructional methods suited to evolving technologies and incident types.
The organisation added that federal support for these initiatives reinforces national investment in emergency response capacity.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This funding announcement shows how large-scale grants are being directed toward firefighter training in hazardous material response.
The IAFF has indicated that the award will allow for an additional 6,500 firefighters to be trained in the US over the next five years.
The inclusion of renewable energy and drone programmes highlights how Hazmat response training is adapting to new operational challenges.
Professionals in fire and safety roles can use this information to understand current priorities in firefighter training and how resources are being allocated.
IAFF secures $8 million for Hazmat response training: Summary
The IAFF has received more than $8 million in federal funding for Hazmat response training.
The grant comes from the National Institutes of Health through the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
The IAFF said this is the largest grant in its history.
The funding will strengthen Hazardous Waste Worker and Hazmat Disaster Preparedness training programmes.
It will also support the creation of new training materials.
The IAFF reported that 4,000 firefighters were certified under the previous grant.
The new award will allow for training of an additional 6,500 firefighters over five years.
The funding will support the “Responding to Renewable Energy Emergencies” programme.
The IAFF said this course helps firefighters manage electric vehicle and renewable energy fires.
The union also confirmed development of a new drone training programme.
The drone course will prepare participants for the FAA remote pilot certification exam.
Edward Kelly, IAFF General President, said the grant ensures firefighters have knowledge and tools for Hazmat emergencies.
The IAFF added that the partnership with NIEHS has been longstanding.
It said the collaboration supports firefighter safety training.
The organisation confirmed the funding will help modernise fire service training approaches.
Emergency services training in Germany, Switzerland and Austria boosted by VR platform
XVR Simulation increases focus on central European emergency service training
According to XVR Simulation, the company has expanded its focus on emergency service training in Germany, Switzerland and Austria through its virtual reality training platform.
The organisation said the platform allows emergency responders to prepare for a wide range of incidents in a controlled and repeatable environment.
It explained that the technology is designed to provide flexible, user-friendly and cost-effective training options for fire, police and ambulance professionals.
The company stated that its platform offers the ability to create unlimited incident scenarios, from large urban fires to complex disaster responses.
It added that the system allows collaborative training sessions that improve communication, coordination and decision-making.
Features of the XVR training platform
XVR Simulation said the platform enables emergency responders to train at any time and location.
It stated that scenarios can include chemical spills, tactical police operations and responses to natural disasters.
The company added that the environment can be fully controlled by instructors to focus on learning objectives.
It noted that this flexibility removes the logistical challenges and safety risks associated with live exercises.
According to the organisation, this approach supports structured debriefing and consistent assessment.
Statement from XVR Simulation
Edwin van de Snepscheut, Group Director of Customer Success at XVR Simulation, said: “We are committed to providing emergency services with the most effective and accessible training tools available.”
“Our VR platform is engineered to heighten immersion, allowing trainees to experience realistic scenarios without the logistical constraints or risks of live exercises.”
“This enables instructors to focus on narrative and consistent debriefing, ensuring a structured and impactful learning experience that directly translates to improved real-world performance.”
Security standards and current adoption
XVR Simulation said its platform is certified to ISO 27001 for information security.
It added that this certification helps ensure data integrity and privacy for its partners.
The company stated that the platform is already used by the Police Academy of Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany, the National Fire Service Academy in South Korea and Australia’s Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting service.
It noted that the latter received a LearnX award for its use of the system.
XVR On Scene 10 release
The company explained that the latest version of the software, XVR On Scene 10, introduces advanced features to create more dynamic and realistic training environments.
It stated that these improvements aim to enhance the impact of training while reducing costs.
The organisation said the platform also limits the need for travel and extensive physical resources.
It added that this efficiency can help agencies maximise their training capacity.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This development is relevant to fire and safety professionals as it shows an increased availability of advanced VR training tools in Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
It highlights how emergency service agencies can adopt technology to deliver realistic, repeatable training without the constraints of live exercises.
It also demonstrates the role of VR platforms in supporting inter-agency coordination and skill development.
Emergency service training in Germany, Switzerland and Austria boosted by VR platform: Summary
XVR Simulation has expanded its focus on emergency service training in Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
The company provides a virtual reality platform for fire, police and ambulance professionals.
The system offers unlimited realistic training scenarios.
It supports collaborative training to improve communication and decision-making.
Edwin van de Snepscheut said the platform allows immersive training without the constraints of live exercises.
The software is ISO 27001 certified.
It is used by agencies in Germany, South Korea and Australia.
The latest version, XVR On Scene 10, includes advanced features.
It reduces the need for physical resources and travel.
The platform aims to enhance operational readiness while lowering training costs.
London Fire Brigade launches Young Voices project to engage staff
Young Voices project aims to engage younger staff
According to the London Fire Brigade, a new project is enabling younger employees to contribute ideas and feedback about working in the organisation.
The initiative, called Young Voices, has been launched in partnership with Entrepreneurs in Action.
The Brigade said it is aimed at staff aged 18 to 27.
It explained that discussion forums and workshops are being used to collect feedback on employment experiences and ideas for improving career development.
It added that participants presented their proposals to London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith and other senior leaders.
Commissioner supports engagement with younger colleagues
London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: “London Fire Brigade is a great organisation that our employees are proud to work for, but it’s vital that young colleagues feel heard and valued.
“The insights that our Young Voices provided have been unique and creative. Engaging with them has proven to me that the future of the Brigade is in safe hands and their work will help us to create positive career experiences for everyone at London Fire Brigade.
“If you are starting your career, London Fire Brigade offers qualifications and development, a sense of belonging and the opportunity to contribute to the safety of Londoners.”
Entrepreneurs in Action partnership
Entrepreneurs in Action chief executive Derek Browne said: “Traditional employee engagement surveys capture opinions, but our ‘ICAN’ methodology enables young employees to develop practical solutions and recommendations that senior leaders can implement.
“Commissioner Smith’s commitment to being the first to implement our commercial methodology across a major UK emergency service demonstrates genuine sector leadership.
“This proves you can unlock Gen Z problem-solving in even the most traditional environments.”
Apprenticeship programmes
The Brigade said Young Voices is part of its wider work to make the fire service an attractive career for young people.
It reported that its Firefighter Apprenticeship programme has been expanded to include a Level 5 Coaching Professional Apprenticeship and a Level 3 Accounts Assistant Apprenticeship.
It confirmed it was ranked 62nd in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers and was the only fire and rescue service included in the list.
It added that more than 240 firefighters completed the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship last year.
Other qualifications and development
The Brigade stated that it also supports sponsored fire engineering degrees.
It said these are offered alongside professional development courses and memberships to professional bodies.
It noted that its Leadership Academy delivers 10 leadership development programmes.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This project reflects an organisational approach to workforce development that prioritises employee engagement and structured career pathways.
For fire and rescue services, the model shows how structured feedback from younger staff can inform policy and operational culture.
Apprenticeships and professional qualifications outlined in the initiative demonstrate how emergency services can combine recruitment strategies with long-term retention planning.
London Fire Brigade launches Young Voices project to engage staff: Summary
The London Fire Brigade has launched the Young Voices project in partnership with Entrepreneurs in Action.
The initiative involves staff aged 18 to 27 in discussions about employment experiences and career development.
Participants present proposals to senior leaders, including the London Fire Commissioner.
The Brigade said the project is part of its strategy to make the service attractive to younger recruits.
It has expanded its apprenticeship offer to include new qualifications.
The Brigade was the only fire service in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers.
More than 240 firefighters completed the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship last year.
Other opportunities include sponsored degrees and leadership development programmes.