Fire Service College introduces AI-powered immersive training space

by Featured NewsProjectsTraining

New AI-powered skills lab supports firefighter training at Fire Service College

Capita’s Fire Service College (FSC) has launched its Immersive Skills Lab, a custom-built training facility designed to enhance firefighter skills development through practical and collaborative methods.

As reported by Capita’s Fire Service College, the lab integrates artificial intelligence to simulate realistic fire scenarios in a controlled, safe environment.

The College said this approach aims to minimise risks associated with live fire training, such as safety concerns and environmental impact.

Traditional live incident training remains a core element of the College’s curriculum, with the new facility complementing these practices.

Clair Mowbray, director at the FSC, said: “The opening of our new Immersive Skills Lab will enhance digital capabilities to ensure that learning and training remains world-leading at the College.”

Leveraging technology to improve firefighter preparedness

The Immersive Skills Lab utilises advanced AI technology to replicate a variety of fire scenarios, designed to enable firefighters to refine their response techniques without real-world consequences.

According to the College, the facility supports all levels of personnel, from junior ranks to Chief Fire Officers, and extends its training capabilities to wider emergency services.

David Hook CBE, managing director for Capita Defence and National Preparedness, said: “The construction of this state-of-the-art Immersive Skills Lab will ensure that firefighters gain experience that better prepares them to respond to unpredictable challenges in real-world scenarios.”

Capita’s commitment to resilience and preparedness

The FSC’s 300-acre site in Moreton-in-Marsh has been a prominent training hub for firefighters and first responders for five decades.

Capita’s long-term strategy for the site includes expanding its focus to support resilience frameworks and address civil preparedness needs.

Capita highlighted its integration of technology within its Defence and National Preparedness businesses, which aligns with the use of virtual reality in defence contracts to enhance training experiences.

The lab forms part of Capita’s broader efforts to merge technology with processes to improve outcomes for clients.

Royal inauguration of the Immersive Skills Lab

The Immersive Skills Lab was officially opened by HRH Princess Anne, continuing the FSC’s tradition of royal engagements.

This tradition began in 1974 when the late Queen Elizabeth II inaugurated the College.

Speaking at the event, FSC representatives acknowledged the lab as a milestone in their mission to deliver cutting-edge training and support innovation in the sector.

Capita’s Fire Service College unveils AI-driven Immersive Skills Lab: Summary

Capita’s Fire Service College (FSC) has opened the Immersive Skills Lab, a training facility that uses artificial intelligence to simulate fire scenarios.

The lab allows firefighters to enhance their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

Traditional live fire training remains a cornerstone of the FSC’s programme, but the lab adds a new dimension by addressing safety and environmental concerns.

The FSC’s site in Moreton-in-Marsh has served as a UK training hub for firefighters and first responders for 50 years.

HRH Princess Anne officially opened the facility, which aligns with Capita’s strategy of integrating technology with training processes.

FSC director Clair Mowbray and Capita’s David Hook CBE highlighted the lab’s potential to better prepare firefighters for complex emergency situations.

Cygnus introduces CPD course for wireless fire alarm technology

by Featured NewsFire DetectionTraining

Cygnus launches CPD training on wireless fire detection systems

Cygnus has launched a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course tailored for fire alarm installers, focusing on wireless fire detection technology.

According to Cygnus, the presentation addresses the growing adoption of wireless systems in fire safety. It explores their application in fire detection and mesh networks, aiming to equip professionals with practical skills for their work.

Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales at Cygnus, said: “Our new CPD presentation provides an excellent opportunity for professionals to stay ahead in their field, expand their expertise, and gain practical knowledge they can apply immediately to their work.”

Features of wireless fire alarm systems

The course examines how wireless systems have developed to overcome installation challenges such as tight timeframes and challenging environments.

The SmartNet system, Cygnus’ EN 54 certified, 100% wireless solution, offers a robust alternative to wired systems. Its self-forming, self-healing mesh network ensures adaptability, making it faster and easier to install.

Product details of Cygnus SmartNet systems

SmartNet comprises scalable options to suit diverse project requirements. The SmartNet-Pro supports 511 devices and up to 96 zones, with a combined capability of over 2500 devices across five panels.

The SmartNet-100 offers configurations for up to 100 devices on a single panel, networkable to five panels via a software upgrade.

These systems aim to simplify fire detection setups without the need for expanders or gateways.

Cygnus’ contribution to the fire safety sector

Cygnus, an independent developer of wireless fire safety technology, continues to innovate in life-saving equipment.

Starting with its radio evacuation systems for construction sites, the company has become known for providing reliable solutions that enhance safety and efficiency.

Its CPD course and SmartNet offerings reinforce its commitment to supporting professionals with practical and reliable technology.

Cygnus launches CPD training on wireless fire detection systems: Summary

Cygnus has developed a CPD course to enhance fire alarm installers’ knowledge of wireless fire detection systems.

The course explores the adoption of wireless technology, offering practical insights into mesh networks.

Cygnus’ EN 54 certified SmartNet system, with scalable options such as SmartNet-Pro and SmartNet-100, provides fast, reliable, and adaptable solutions.

Cygnus aims to support professionals by simplifying fire detection installation and maintenance, while also offering robust customer and technical support.

BESA appointed to develop heat network training programme in the UK

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

DESNZ names BESA as lead training provider

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has appointed the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) as the lead training provider for a scheme to support the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS).

This initiative, backed by a £183,000 contract running until November 2025, is part of efforts to improve the performance of the UK’s heat network industry.

According to DESNZ, training underpins the regulatory framework overseen by Ofgem, which aims to enhance technical standards and consumer protection within this key low-carbon sector.

BESA, collaborating with Fairheat, has begun work on courses designed to support developers, operators, contractors, and designers.

Training to support regulatory standards rollout

Fairheat, a heat network consultancy, has been working since 2022 to create a code of technical standards.

These standards, which include requirements based on the original voluntary code by CIBSE, are expected to roll out from 2025.

Fairheat is also helping to establish assessment and certification schemes to ensure compliance.

Gareth Jones, Fairheat managing director, said: “This partnership with BESA is a testament to our shared commitment to driving excellence in the heat network industry.”

Initial training will operate in a ‘shadow’ phase before the HNTAS officially launches.

DESNZ aims for the first sessions to commence in early 2025.

Heat network zones receive £5.8 million boost

Six regions in the UK have been selected to host heat network zones as part of a £5.8 million government funding initiative.

These zones include Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport, Sheffield, and areas in London.

Funds will support data analytics and the identification of optimal locations for new networks.

The zones aim to demonstrate large-scale installations and the use of recycled heat to power multiple buildings.

Expanding workforce skills and technical standards

BESA’s Jill Nicholls highlighted the significance of ensuring workforce competence to meet regulatory and industry standards.

She said: “Heat networks will play an increasingly important role in the transition to net zero.”

BESA has also developed industry test regimes for Heat Interface Units (HIUs) and launched two fully funded training courses in partnership with MEHNA and TICA.

These courses, covering foundation and installation/maintenance skills, are designed to address the growing demand for trained professionals.

BESA appointed to develop heat network training programme in the UK: summary

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has named the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) as the lead training provider for the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS).

The scheme is supported by a £183,000 contract running until November 2025.

BESA, collaborating with Fairheat, is preparing training courses to support the industry’s regulatory requirements, which will roll out from 2025.

The UK government has allocated £5.8 million to establish six heat network zones to identify optimal locations for networks and showcase large-scale installations.

Additionally, BESA has launched fully funded courses in partnership with MEHNA and TICA to address workforce needs.

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service launches new community risk management plan

by Featured NewsTraining

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service unveils 2025-2028 risk management plan

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service has officially launched its Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for 2025-2028.

The CRMP outlines priorities for protecting local communities and improving safety standards.

According to Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service, the plan was developed following a 12-week public consultation conducted last year.

Over 1,500 responses were received.

The plan focuses on three primary priorities: developing a professional workforce, reducing risks through prevention and response activities, and minimising the organisation’s environmental impact.

Key priorities of the CRMP

The first priority, “our people,” aims to foster a diverse, healthy, and professional workforce.

The second priority, “our communities,” emphasises risk reduction from fires and emergencies.

This includes a mix of prevention, protection, and response strategies to safeguard the public.

The third priority, “our environment,” seeks to reduce the service’s carbon footprint while promoting resilient and sustainable communities.

Consultation feedback and community input

The CRMP reflects feedback gathered during last year’s public consultation.

Chief Fire Officer Rob Barber said: “We’re really pleased that so many people took the time to give us their views as part of the consultation.

“We’ve taken these comments on board and used them to shape this final plan.”

Ben Adams, Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, added: “Their views and the references to my Local Fire and Rescue Plan have contributed to a CRMP that thoroughly reflects both current and emerging risk, and community expectations of their fire and rescue service.”

Focus areas and availability

Feedback from the consultation highlighted areas for improvement, including preventing incidents, working with vulnerable individuals, and conducting fire safety inspections in buildings such as high rises.

The CRMP is available to view on Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service’s website.

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service unveils 2025-2028 risk management plan: Summary

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service has launched its 2025-2028 Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP).

The plan prioritises workforce development, community safety, and environmental sustainability.

It incorporates feedback from over 1,500 respondents to a public consultation held last year.

Areas of focus include incident prevention, vulnerable populations, and fire safety inspections.

The CRMP is available on the service’s website.

UKTC achieves record growth in testing services

by Featured NewsResearchTraining

Record year for fire resistance testing at UKTC

According to United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC), the East Kilbride-based laboratory has completed a record-breaking year in 2024.

Over 450 fire resistance tests were conducted in their UKAS-accredited facility, maintaining a four-week turnaround time for final reports.

The laboratory has also seen its workforce nearly double.

Reflecting on the year’s success, Dan Fitzsimmons, Head of Testing at UKTC, said: “I’m very proud of what we have achieved here at UKTC over the last 12 months.

“Adding to our already extensive customer service portfolio, we have added new test methodologies and have kept up with our industry-leading report turnaround times.”

Expanding testing capabilities for 2025

UKTC is preparing for further growth in the upcoming year.

Plans are in place to expand its fire resistance and reaction-to-fire testing capabilities.

Fitzsimmons outlined the upcoming investments: “Looking to the future, we are expanding our Reaction to Fire capabilities by adding several pieces of equipment and technology to our already extensive portfolio of testing services.”

In addition to enhancing testing services, UKTC has launched a certification division.

This new department is led by Ian Laithwaite and Matthew Dale, who bring a combined four decades of industry expertise to the organisation.

Recognition through industry awards

UKTC received notable recognition in its first year as an Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) member.

The organisation was nominated for two awards, showcasing the contributions of staff members Nathan and Rob.

Fitzsimmons said: “Both Nathan and Rob are a credit to this business and help us drive the business forward.”

These achievements reflect the company’s continued focus on delivering high-quality services to its clients across the UK, from fire resistance to reaction-to-fire testing.

Supporting UK manufacturers of passive fire products

UKTC provides accredited testing and certification services for passive fire product manufacturers in the UK.

The organisation’s expertise supports compliance with industry standards while helping manufacturers improve product safety and performance.

For more details, visit their website at www.uktestcert.com.

UKTC achieves record growth in testing services: Summary

United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC), based in East Kilbride, has reported record-breaking achievements in 2024.

The laboratory conducted over 450 fire resistance tests with an industry-leading four-week report turnaround time.

Workforce numbers nearly doubled, and the company was recognised with two nominations in its first year as an ASFP member.

Plans for 2025 include expanding fire testing capabilities and launching a certification division led by experts Ian Laithwaite and Matthew Dale.

UKTC continues to provide accredited testing services to UK passive fire product manufacturers.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service trial improves emergency response times

by Featured NewsTraining

Policy introduces three-person on-call firefighter crews

A trial by Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, running since June 2023, has now been approved following improvements to emergency response times.

The trial involved deploying teams of three on-call firefighters to incidents instead of waiting for the next available fire engine with a crew of four.

These teams can respond to smaller incidents, such as bin or car fires, and provide additional support at larger emergencies.

During the 17-month pilot period, teams of three attended over 600 incidents.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Glynn Luznyj said: “We will always strive to have at least four firefighters on a fire engine.

“However, having a minimum of three on-call firefighters available to respond as an extra resource means that they can attend incidents quicker than the next nearest fully crewed appliance, which may be several miles away.

“Time is critical at emergencies, and having firefighters arrive earlier can help limit the escalation of an incident.”

Public and staff support for the policy

The service conducted a public consultation as part of its upcoming four-year plan, with 83% of respondents supporting the policy.

Additionally, internal staff surveys indicated significant support for the initiative.

Luznyj acknowledged some concerns from representative bodies and confirmed adjustments to the types of incidents the three-person crews would attend.

“We’re confident that we now have a new policy that improves response times, maintains firefighter safety, and also increases on-call firefighter morale,” Luznyj said.

Increased training and operational experience for on-call crews

The policy applies solely to on-call firefighters and aims to provide faster responses while enhancing their operational experience.

Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue, and Crime Ben Adams said: “I am supportive of Staffordshire Fire & Rescue’s decision to give the crewing in threes pilot the go-ahead, as it brings real advantages to both the fire crews themselves and our communities.

“Crewing in threes allows the Service to greatly improve the safety of the public.

“They will be able to attend more incidents, some which the team can resolve themselves and some where they will provide valuable support for other full teams.

“It also builds up the on-call team’s experience, local knowledge, and confidence.”

Immediate implementation of the policy

The newly approved policy has been implemented immediately across the Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

It specifically applies to on-call firefighter crews.

Full-time fire engines will continue to operate with a minimum crew of four firefighters.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service trial improves emergency response times: Summary

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has approved a policy following a 17-month trial involving teams of three on-call firefighters responding to emergencies.

The pilot demonstrated faster response times, with crews attending over 600 incidents.

The initiative, supported by public consultation and staff surveys, aims to provide quicker responses to smaller incidents and additional support at larger emergencies.

Adjustments have been made following concerns from representative bodies.

The policy, which enhances on-call firefighter experience, took immediate effect and applies only to on-call crews.

Full-time fire engines remain staffed by a minimum of four firefighters.

Hills RFS opens new $1.37 million training centre in Sackville North

by Featured NewsTraining

New facility supports RFS volunteers across growing districts

The Hills Rural Fire Service (RFS) District has opened a state-of-the-art training facility at Sackville North, designed to support training and operational needs for RFS volunteers across The Hills and nearby districts.

The $1.37 million centre was funded through several sources, including $250,000 from donations following the 2019/20 fire season and $400,000 from the RFS and Brigades Donations Fund.

RFS Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie said the centre is an investment in the training and preparedness of the Service’s volunteers: “Our volunteers are the backbone of the RFS, dedicating their time and effort to safeguard lives and property. This new facility ensures they receive the best possible training in a modern, realistic environment.”

Facility features advanced training and operational tools

The Hills Training Centre includes a training room equipped with wireless internet, video conferencing, and essential radio systems.

It also features purpose-built structural firefighting “hot cell” and “warm cell” structures to provide realistic training scenarios. Volunteers will have access to safe work on roofs training areas.

Additional amenities include a kitchen, BBQ area, accessible restrooms, PPC washing and drying facilities, and a backup generator.

The facility is expected to play a key role in improving volunteer readiness and operational capacity across the district.

Location enhances emergency response coordination

The site at Sackville North is co-located with the Sackville North Brigade station and will also serve as a forward command point during large-scale emergencies.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said: “The strategic location enhances the facility’s ability to ensure efficient coordination across agencies during emergencies.”

The construction project was completed in July 2024, marking the latest phase of a development process spanning over a decade.

Tribute to Group Captain James Smith AFSM (Retired)

As part of the opening, a training centre room has been named in honour of Group Captain James (Jim) Smith AFSM (Retired), recognising his more than 50 years of service.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said: “As a Captain of Middle Dural Brigade for 16 years and 25 years as Group Captain, Jim’s dedication to the RFS and his community is exemplary.

“Jim was integral to the development and completion of this Centre, and the facility stands as a testament to his vision and service.”

Hills RFS opens new $1.37 million training centre in Sackville North: Summary

The Hills Rural Fire Service District has opened a $1.37 million training facility at Sackville North, co-located with the local brigade station. The centre was funded through combined sources, including donations from the 2019/20 fire season.

The facility features advanced training resources, including structural firefighting cells, safe roof work areas, and modern communication systems. It will also serve as a forward command point during large-scale emergencies, improving coordination across agencies.

The centre honours Group Captain James Smith AFSM (Retired) for his decades of service to the RFS and community.

“What is our actual capacity?” Brent Brooks shares lessons learned from 100 fire departments for improving high-rise fire response

by Breaking NewsIFSJ InfluencersSafetyTraining

By Brent Brooks, Acting District Chief for the Toronto Fire Services

I committed to personally dedicating time and support to 100 fire departments to research best practices.

I’m happy to report that I have exceeded this goal. I will share insights from over 100 fire departments contributing to this research.

This initiative aims to enhance training and tactical practices, specifically focusing on high-rise firefighting operations.

During my visit to these fire departments, I had the opportunity to observe various firefighting equipment and deployment methods.

I noted how the weight of the equipment impacts firefighter deployment and effectiveness.

I witnessed the challenges that firefighters face when recovering from exertion.

It became evident that even the most physically fit firefighters encounter difficulties due to heavy equipment.

This experience inspired me to explore potential solutions to enhance our overall effectiveness.

I sought feedback from the 100 Fire Departments, which provided insights into our realistic response times and helped determine if fire ground assignments could be feasibly completed based on fire and smoke conditions.

This observation prompted me to delve into the scientific principles of ergonomics and firefighter behaviour.

What is our actual capacity to deploy resources faster than smoke and fire spread?

As a firefighter studying high-rise buildings, I analyse and predict how a building will respond when on fire.

I focus on learning the logistical aspects of firefighting operations within buildings and finding ways to improve our strategies for extinguishing fires, evacuating people, and ventilating smoke.

Thanks to the involvement of these 100 fire departments, we have developed specialised nozzles and techniques for water delivery and, most importantly, firefighter deployment models.

Firefighters may have varying opinions based on their education and experiences.

It’s important to share these perspectives to gain a comprehensive understanding.

We fact-check each other to assess proposed tactics for improvement.

Please keep an open mind; This approach will significantly enhance our ability to respond to emergencies.

I have visited 36 of the world’s 118 tallest buildings and have studied through my membership with the Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.

This has allowed me to establish valuable connections and maintain regular communication with engineers, designers, and architects specialising in constructing some of the world’s most distinctive buildings.

We collaborate to share insights on retrofitting existing structures and designing future buildings.

This networking has helped me connect the dots by providing different perspectives, giving us all a better understanding of how firefighting operations, evacuation of occupants, and smoke control can work together.

I aim to stay updated with the latest technology and building design and share that knowledge with others.

I am committed to ensuring firefighters can operate safely and effectively to achieve the best possible outcome for the people inside buildings.

About the IFSJ Influencer

Brent Brooks is an Acting District Chief for the Toronto Fire Services with 30 years of experience.

He has dedicated himself to research and development, significantly improving high-rise operations worldwide.

Brent is committed to equipping firefighters with modern tactical approaches and specialised equipment knowledge for standpipe-equipped buildings.

IFSJ Influencers Edition 2024

The 2024 Influencers Special Edition of International Fire and Safety Journal is a collection of some of the most influential voices across the fire and safety industry, representing a collective following of 4.2 million.

Together, they provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments, challenges, and forward-looking insights shaping the global fire and safety sector.

Read all 30 influencer articles in the digital magazine now.

This article was originally published in the December 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Addressing firefighter safety concerns: Martin Joosen shares insights into advanced training methods and the future of robotic firefighting

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyIFSJ InfluencersSafetyTraining

By Martin Joosen, Senior Vice President/Managing Director, LION EMEA

The fire and safety industry faces ongoing challenges that demand continuous adaptation.

One of the major concerns for fire brigades is adapting to advancements that present new problems that didn’t exist before, like electric vehicles and highly secure buildings that are difficult to enter.

They need to continuously seek new technologies and updated training to help them address these issues.

From a health and safety perspective, there are risks around toxic particles in black smoke, which contribute to high cancer rates among firefighters.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for their protection, but contamination of this equipment is also a challenge.

More rules and regulations are emerging to ensure they are not exposed to harmful particles.

LION Protects is in the business of the training of firefighters, where all these challenges converge.

The real-life challenges need to be incorporated into training environments to prepare firefighters effectively. We see two developments here.

First, as specialists in building training facilities, we aim to provide them with the latest technology for training.

For example, how do you extinguish fires in electric vehicles? We are developing tools and vehicles to enable them to train on procedures specific to electric vehicles compared to traditional ones.

Second, there’s the issue of decontamination. Firefighters are not frequently exposed to real fires due to safety systems and building practices, especially in Europe.

However, in training environments, they are exposed to real fires more often.

While contamination and black smoke are dangerous, they’re not frequently encountered in real situations, but they are in training.

This is where our NFT program comes in.

By combining the three elements of fire systems – carbonaceous, gas, and digital – we can reduce exposure while still providing 100% effective training with fewer toxic particles, less environmental impact like CO₂ emissions, and better total cost of ownership.

In many industries, human beings are reaching the end of their technological involvement in certain tasks – why would we send real people into a fire when we could use robots in the future? Drones have been developed that can extinguish fires from the outside of a building.

While there are limitations, I foresee a future where firefighters are increasingly replaced – not in terms of their knowledge, but in terms of the physical human presence.

We will always have fires to contend with. We will always need firefighters to some extent, but their roles will evolve.

About the IFSJ Influencer

Martin Joosen joined LION in 2018 leading the Sales and Marketing department.

He is responsible for Europe, Asia, Middle-East and Pacific.

He studied at the Erasmus University and Nyenrode University with a master’s in management and economics.

He has more than 20 Years experience in International Business, 17 of which are in the Fire Rescue Market, and more than 5 years experience in international projects.

He is now the Senior Vice President/Managing Director, LION EMEA.

IFSJ Influencers Edition 2024

The 2024 Influencers Special Edition of International Fire and Safety Journal is a collection of some of the most influential voices across the fire and safety industry, representing a collective following of 4.2 million.

Together, they provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments, challenges, and forward-looking insights shaping the global fire and safety sector.

Read all 30 influencer articles in the digital magazine now.

This article was originally published in the December 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

 

Immersive education: William (Bill) Koffel highlights how VR and AR technologies address global challenges in fire protection engineering

by Breaking NewsIFSJ InfluencersTraining

By William (Bill) Koffel, P.E., FSFPE, SASHE, Director, Undergraduate Fire Protection Engineering  Online Program, University of Maryland

Graduates from fire protection engineering programs routinely receive multiple job offers as the number of available positions in the discipline significantly outpace the number of graduates from the undergraduate and graduate programs.

 Employers often need to hire graduates from other engineering programs and incur the cost of on-the-job training to provide the employee with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to practice fire protection engineering.

In the USA, graduation from an ABET-accredited BS program in engineering is one of the easier paths for engineers to achieve status as a Professional Engineer.

The new online undergraduate fire protection engineering program now makes earning a BS in FPE from an accredited program available to students globally.

 One of the challenges associated with offering the courses to an international student population is to replicate the experiential learning opportunities that are available to on-campus students.

 For that reason, virtual reality (VR) systems are being developed as an alternative to traditional education opportunities.

 Research has shown that virtual reality can improve the learning process (Cicek, Bernik, & Igor, 2021).

The following three hypotheses were proven by Cicek: Respondents prefer to use VR over two-dimensional displays; Respondents believe the use of VR systems will increase interest in certain teaching content; and respondents believe that interactive media into the curriculum will improve learning outcomes.

An alternative to virtual reality, augmented reality (AR) will also be explored based upon a study conducted by a group affiliated with the University of Maryland (Childs, et al., 2023).

 It has been noted that perceived immersion, technical quality, enjoyment, learning, and social influence all affected the adoption of AR technology in the learning process (Ghobadi, Ghiai, & Tahmasebinia, 2023).

Another research study involved a control group who only had access to traditional two-dimensional schematics and an experimental group who had access to a three-dimensional model (Hain & Motaref, 2023).

 The students were all enrolled in an entry-level engineering course in Mechanics of Materials, although almost all students were considered to be in their third year of higher education.

 Both groups took an exam at the beginning of the research so that the improvement in scores could be evaluated on a post-research exam.

The exam results indicated that: Students who had access to 3D models performed better in identifying failure modes and project geometry; Students who had access to 3D models felt more comfortable and confident in understanding the project geometry; Neither the control group or the experimental group performed better with engineering problems that relied heavily on engineering concepts rather than visualization.

The benefits of VR and AR technology to facilitate immersive learning for students that do not have access to physical facilities have been well documented.

 It has also been documented that the investment in VR and AR laboratories is also a good investment for an institution of higher learning (Marks & Thomas, 2022).

This is especially true if the laboratory is also used for demonstrations, other training activities, engagement of industry, and high-school student visits.

 The faculty at the University of Maryland has acknowledged that the investment in VR/AR technology will also enhance the learning process for on-campus students.

About the IFSJ Influencer

William (Bill) Koffel, P.E., FSFPE, SASHE is the Director, Undergraduate Fire Protection Engineering Online Program, University of Maryland.

Prior to his Faculty Appointment, Mr. Koffel was the President of Koffel Associates, a fire protection engineering and code consulting firm, and remains with the firm as Senior Director, Special Projects.

He is also a Partner with Koffel Fire and Safety Consultancy with offices in the UAE.

IFSJ Influencers Edition 2024

The 2024 Influencers Special Edition of International Fire and Safety Journal is a collection of some of the most influential voices across the fire and safety industry, representing a collective following of 4.2 million.

Together, they provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments, challenges, and forward-looking insights shaping the global fire and safety sector.

Read all 30 influencer articles in the digital magazine now.

This article was originally published in the December 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.