Specialist training for heavy vehicle rescue

by Breaking NewsIFSJ ExclusivesTraining

Michael Maybin, Director of Operations, IRRTC Rescue Ltd, explores the importance of specialised training for heavy vehicle rescues and its impact on responder readiness

For emergency services, the ability to respond effectively to incidents involving heavy vehicles is crucial.

I have witnessed first-hand the importance of comprehensive training programs tailored to professional rescue organisations, such as UK Fire Services, and their counterparts globally.

This article will delve into the benefits of offering specialised heavy vehicle rescue training, highlighting the critical aspects of exposure to heavy vehicles, the unique challenges posed by their design and fuel systems, and the indispensable knowledge and skills required to manage such complex scenarios.

The importance of heavy vehicle rescue training

Heavy vehicle rescue operations differ significantly from standard motor vehicle extrications due to the sheer size, weight, and complexity of the vehicles involved.

Training professional rescue organisations in these specialised techniques ensures that responders are well-prepared to handle the unique challenges they might face.

Such training enhances operational efficiency, reduces response times, and ultimately saves lives.

HGV tractor units are often hard to access and cost prohibitive for UK Fire Services to get exposure to.

I was interviewed on the Fire Fighters Podcast Episode #267, in December 2023, about overcoming the challenge of heavy vehicle rescue, and fundamentally this is why IRRTC Rescue offer the course.

Benefits of specialised training for professional rescue organisations

  1. Improved response capability: Specialised training equips rescue teams with the knowledge and skills to handle heavy vehicle incidents efficiently. This includes understanding the structural integrity of heavy vehicles, utilising appropriate tools and techniques, and managing the scene effectively.
  2. Enhanced safety for responders: Our training emphasises the importance of safety protocols when dealing with heavy vehicles. This includes understanding the risks associated with working at height, the increased weight and strength of these vehicles, and the potential hazards posed by modern fuel systems.
  3. Adaptability to technological advancements: As vehicle technology evolves, so too must the training for rescue personnel. With the advent of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hydrogen fuel cells, compressed natural gas (CNG), biomethane, and hydrogen/electric systems, responders must be adept at identifying and managing the unique risks associated with each type of fuel system as the future of these vehicles evolve.
  4. International organisation for standardisation: ISO 17840, can be used world-wide for first and second responders as is a world-wide standard in cooperation with Euro NCAP, SIS and ISO with their ‘Know before you approach!’ ethos.

Exposure to heavy vehicles: a critical learning component

Hands-on exposure to heavy vehicles is a cornerstone of effective rescue training.

This practical experience allows responders to familiarise themselves with the physical and operational characteristics of these vehicles, fostering a deeper understanding that theoretical training alone cannot provide.

IRRTC prides itself on offering this for real world use and benefit.

Real-world training scenarios

Training programs we incorporate include realistic factors that prepare the responders for what they will encounter in the field.

This includes the opportunity to look around new HGVs, LGVs, inside and outside, underneath them and trailers to see the operating systems and how they function.

This is delivered by an HGV recovery expert.

Heavy vehicles, particularly those in the transport and construction industries, often involve working at height.

Our training includes the use of specialised equipment, working platforms, safe systems of work

Heavy vehicles present unique challenges due to their increased weight and structural strength.

The cohort attending must learn how to use heavy-duty cutting and lifting equipment effectively to extricate trapped individuals safely.

Addressing the challenges of modern fuel systems

The shift towards alternative fuel systems in heavy vehicles introduces new risks and complexities for rescue operations.

Understanding these systems is vital for ensuring the safety of both responders and victims.

For HGVs in UK the number already on the road shouldn’t be underestimated.

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

BEVs are becoming increasingly common in the heavy vehicle sector with DAF presently leading the sector.

Yet many manufactures offer an alternative fuelled heavy goods vehicle, as for a fleet operator its biggest cost is fuel (diesel) at over thirty percent.

Alternative fuelled vehicles are the fleet operator’s future.

However, with BEVs, their high-voltage battery systems may pose significant risks during rescue operations.

Our training covers identifying the location of batteries and understanding the potential for thermal runaway developing into thermal cascade.

This could be caused by a type of abuse, i.e.

impact from collision, a fault within the traction battery, or even first or second responder activity.

It also explains how to safely isolate the electrical system with the IAIIM response protocol: Identify > Assess > Immobilise > Isolate > Monitor.

This is done using key information such as make, model and year of vehicle that is specific to that vehicle.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Hydrogen fuel cells are another emerging technology in heavy vehicles.

The highly flammable nature of hydrogen requires specialised training to manage potential risks.

This includes understanding how damage to tanks and systems could cause hydrogen leaks, which can lead to explosive situations if not handled correctly falling within remit potentially of the DSEAR (Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmosphere Regulations) in UK.

 It’s also important to link in with manufacturers and fleet operators to share the most up to date knowledge and infrastructure status.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Biomethane

CNG and biomethane are increasingly used in heavy vehicles for fleet use in UK by many large brands and organisations, due to their lower environmental impact.

However, these fuels present unique challenges:

One is pressurised fuel systems – knowledge of high-pressure fuel systems safely is essential to prevent accidental releases or risks to responders.

Another is firefighting techniques, understanding that there are specific firefighting techniques required for gas fires, which differ from conventional liquid fuel fires.

Hydrogen/Electric

These systems that combine hydrogen and electric power introduce a new layer of complexity. Our training identifies:

  • Dual-system management: Understanding how to manage incidents involving both hydrogen and electric systems, ensuring both are safely isolated and neutralised.
  • Integrated risk assessment: Conducting thorough risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards associated with these systems.
  • Examples of current vehicles: Some of these vehicles are manufactured here in UK, so knowledge of them and Emergency Response Guides are vital.

Conclusion

Specialised heavy vehicle rescue training is an invaluable investment for professional rescue organisations.

By providing responders with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience necessary to handle the unique challenges posed by heavy vehicles, we enhance their capability to save lives while ensuring their own safety.

As vehicle technology continues to evolve, ongoing training and adaptation are essential to stay ahead of emerging risks.

By emphasising the importance of exposure to heavy vehicles and understanding modern fuel systems, we can build a robust foundation for effective and safe heavy vehicle rescue operations.

Offering specialised heavy vehicle rescue training to professional rescue organisations not only enhances their operational efficiency but also ensures the safety of both responders and victims.

The complexities of modern heavy vehicles, from their structural characteristics to their advanced fuel systems, necessitate a thorough and practical approach to training.

By investing in such programs, we equip our rescue teams with the tools and knowledge they need to face the challenges of the future, ultimately contributing to a safer and more resilient emergency response framework.

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

FIA releases new guidance on antistatic precautions for control and indicating equipment

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire EngineeringSafetyTraining

Fire Industry Association announces release of new guidance document

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced the release of a new guidance document, titled “Guidance on Antistatic Precautions when Fitting Equipment to Control and Indicating Equipment.”

This document, as reported by the FIA, provides detailed advice to help fire safety professionals reduce the risks associated with electrostatic discharge (ESD) when working with Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBA) in Control and Indicating Equipment (CIE).

ESD events can lead to damage to sensitive electronic components within CIE, potentially affecting the safety and performance of fire detection and alarm systems.

The new guidance is designed to provide clear instructions for handling and installing PCBA components in a way that minimises these risks.

Key recommendations for managing electrostatic discharge

The guidance includes several recommendations for mitigating ESD risks, particularly for those working with PCBA’s in CIE.

These recommendations include the use of antistatic wrist straps, grounding techniques, and proper handling and transportation methods for sensitive electronic components.

The document further outlines safety precautions that should be observed before, during, and after working with CIE to ensure the integrity of both the equipment and its functionality.

Aimed at installers, maintainers, and commissioners in fire safety

The guidance is intended to serve as an essential resource for various professionals in the fire safety industry, including installers, maintainers, and commissioners.

It is available for download on the FIA website and is designed to support industry professionals in adhering to high safety and operational standards.

The FIA encourages all relevant parties to review the guidance and apply its recommendations in their work to avoid potential damage from ESD events.

Available for download on FIA website

The guidance document is freely available for download from the FIA’s official website.

It is positioned as a valuable tool to help fire safety professionals maintain best practices while working with control and indicating equipment.

The FIA has emphasised the importance of following the procedures outlined in the document to prevent damage to sensitive components and ensure the continued reliability of fire detection and alarm systems.

New FIA guidance on antistatic precautions in fire safety industry: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has released a new guidance document titled “Guidance on Antistatic Precautions when Fitting Equipment to Control and Indicating Equipment.”

The document offers detailed advice on preventing electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage when working with Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBA) in Control and Indicating Equipment (CIE).

It includes recommendations for antistatic precautions such as wrist straps, grounding methods, and safe handling of components.

The guidance is aimed at installers, maintainers, and commissioners in the fire safety industry and is available for download from the FIA website.

Fire Cadets Challenge sees fierce competition among young firefighters in Wales

by EventsFeatured NewsTraining

Teams from across Wales compete in fire cadets challenge

Teams of young people from across Wales gathered on Sunday, 21st July, at Cardiff Gate Training and Development Centre for the annual Fire Cadets Challenge, as reported by South Wales Fire and Rescue.

The competition saw 12 teams from South Wales and one team from Mid and West Wales participate in various firefighting-related challenges, vying for the title of Fire Cadets Challenge winners.

The Fire Cadets programme offers young people a unique insight into working within an emergency service.

Participants are treated as young trainee firefighters and learn basic skills through weekly activities at local fire stations.

These skills are put to the test annually at the Cadets Challenge.

Highlights of the challenges and winners

The competition featured several challenges, including Home Fire Safety Check, Equipment Assembly, and a Trauma Challenge.

Teams were judged on speed, communication, teamwork, presentation, and technique.

Bridgend team completed the Equipment Assembly in the quickest time, while Merthyr team excelled in the Home Fire Safety Check.

Bridgend and Malpas tied in the Trauma Challenge, and Abergavenny, Barry, Roath, and Tonypandy shared the Presentation Challenge win.

A standout result was the BA crawl ways activity, where teams navigated a dark, confined space.

The Tredegar team set a record, completing it in 36 seconds.

Watch Manager Tom Watson commented: “Our unit showed real determination at the Fire Cadets Challenge, and I was proud of the level of skills they demonstrated.”

Tribute to Donna Crossman

This year’s challenge included a tribute to Donna Crossman, South Wales Fire and Rescue’s Youth Services Manager, who tragically passed away in a road traffic incident.

The Fire Cadets Challenge award was named the Donna Crossman Award in her honor.

Amy Jenkins, Fire Cadet Manager at SWFRS, expressed pride in the cadets’ performance, saying: “All of the cadets worked really hard throughout the day and encouraged each other through the challenges to overcome them as a team.”

Conclusion and future events

The event concluded with a presentation ceremony, where Malpas Fire Cadets were named overall winners and received the Donna Crossman Award.

The day was marked by both celebration and remembrance.

The National Cadet Games will be hosted by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service in 2025 at Cardiff Met University.

Fire cadets challenge sees fierce competition among young firefighters in Wales: Summary

On 21st July, young people from across Wales competed in the annual Fire Cadets Challenge at Cardiff Gate Training and Development Centre.

Teams from South Wales and Mid and West Wales participated in various firefighting-related challenges.

Bridgend, Merthyr, Tredegar, and other teams excelled in different activities.

This year’s event paid tribute to Donna Crossman, with the overall winners receiving the Donna Crossman Award.

The National Cadet Games will be held in 2025 at Cardiff Met University.

Tamworth students complete NSW Rural Fire Service cadet program

by Featured NewsPeopleTraining

Tamworth students graduate from RFS cadet program

As reported by the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), students from Calrossy Anglican High School have completed the Secondary School Cadet Program in the Tamworth District.

Fourteen Year 9 and 10 students graduated from the program, which aims to educate young people about fire safety and the role of emergency services.

RFS District Manager, Superintendent Bron Waters, congratulated the students on their achievement.

She highlighted the program’s focus on fire behaviour, safety techniques, and the contribution of volunteer firefighters.

Superintendent Waters said: “As well as examining fire behaviour, the participants have learned essential fire safety techniques and gained an appreciation of the work emergency services do every day across the state.”

Encouraging future firefighting efforts

Superintendent Waters emphasised the importance of the cadet program in preparing the next generation of firefighters.

She encouraged graduates to consider joining their local brigades and completing further training to become bush firefighters.

The program has been running for two decades, with thousands of students across NSW graduating.

Communities across New South Wales rely on RFS volunteers to protect them and their property.

Programs like this one help to ensure that there will be skilled volunteers ready to step in when needed.

Superintendent Waters expressed gratitude to the school staff for their support, saying: “It is fantastic to see such enthusiasm for this program from students and educators, and I would like to thank School Principal David Smith and Career Advisor Charles Impey for their support in making this course available to their students.”

Building essential skills and values

The RFS cadet program not only equips students with firefighting skills but also instils values such as teamwork, leadership, and confidence.

Delivered by local RFS volunteers, the course provides practical knowledge and an understanding of the significant role that volunteer firefighters play in their communities.

Superintendent Waters noted the enthusiasm of the participants and the importance of fostering a new generation of volunteers.

Adapting third-party certification schemes to the Golden Thread initiative: Key insights from the ASFP webinar

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafetyTraining

Understanding the Golden Thread initiative

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) recently hosted a webinar focusing on the adaptation of third-party certification schemes to align with the Golden Thread initiative, as reported by ASFP.

This initiative aims to improve building safety by ensuring comprehensive and accurate information is available throughout a building’s lifecycle.

It emphasizes the importance of detailed and accessible records for both new and existing buildings, outlining their design, construction, and ongoing maintenance.

Role of third-party certification

Third-party certification schemes play a crucial role in ensuring building products and installations meet stringent safety standards.

These certifications are fundamental in guaranteeing the safety and reliability of fire-resistant products.

The ASFP has consistently promoted the importance of these certifications within the construction industry, advocating for increased rigour and transparency.

Challenges and solutions

One significant challenge highlighted during the webinar was the inconsistency and inaccessibility of certification scheme rules.

These rules are often complex and difficult to interpret, leading to varying understandings even within the same certification body.

To address this, the webinar underscored the need for clear and accessible documentation, including hyperlinks to supporting evidence on certification bodies’ websites.

This would provide a single source of truth, ensuring consistency across the industry.

Mandatory certification and public access

The webinar also discussed the necessity of mandatory certification and the publication of certification data.

Making this information freely accessible online would enhance transparency and credibility within the industry.

This step is seen as essential for building trust and ensuring all stakeholders can easily verify the compliance and performance of products.

Adam Shipstone, Technical Training Officer, stated: “This webinar highlighted the critical role of detailed and accessible information in building safety.

“By enhancing the rigour of certification schemes, ensuring mandatory and transparent certification, and improving installer competence, the industry can move towards a future where safety, transparency, and integrity are paramount.”

For those who missed the live session, the ASFP offers CPD accreditation for participation in their webinars.

Stay informed and engaged by joining future sessions and contributing to the ongoing dialogue on building safety and certification standards.

Watch the full webinar on YouTube now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7260eYMu6M

Fire Safety: Prioritising Prevention And Protection set to air on ITN Business

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

Fire safety: exploring the importance of education and prevention on ITN Business

ITN Business’ upcoming news-style programme, ‘Fire Safety: Prioritising Prevention and Protection’, will delve into the crucial aspects of fire safety education for the public.

The programme aims to highlight training initiatives designed to reduce preventable deaths, promote the safe use and disposal of electricals and batteries, and underscore the importance of smoke alarms.

Anchored by journalist Sharon Thomas, the programme will feature contributions from key organisations in the fire safety sector.

These include the Fire Industry Association (FIA), the Fire Protection Association (FPA), and the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).

The show will share reporter-led case studies filmed on location to provide real-world insights into fire safety practices.

Community and fire safety regulations

In addition to home safety, the programme will address fire safety in community settings.

It will explore current regulations and the importance of preparedness for emergencies.

The aim is to empower communities with knowledge that can prevent fires and reduce risks.

Industry thought leaders will discuss how proper education on fire safety can make a difference.

The programme will highlight new technologies and solutions developed to improve fire safety and support the sector, ensuring communities are better protected.

Digital launch and marketing campaign

‘Fire Safety: Prioritising Prevention and Protection’ will be available on a bespoke page on the ITN Business content hub, supported by a digital launch and a marketing campaign.

The programme is scheduled to launch in October 2024, coinciding with Fire Conference 2024.

Sharon Thomas, who has a 20-year career in journalism and experience with the BBC and Sky News, will present the programme.

Industry participation

The FPA has expressed its pleasure in participating in this programme.

The collaboration with other fire safety leaders like the FIA and IFE underscores the sector’s commitment to educating the public and enhancing fire safety measures.

The programme will showcase how ongoing education and awareness can prevent fires, mitigate risks, and ensure communities are prepared for emergencies.

Merseyside launches UK’s most advanced emergency service training centre

by Featured NewsTraining

Centre opening event highlights advanced emergency training

As reported by Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, the National Resilience Centre of Excellence was officially opened in Aintree, Liverpool.

The event was attended by notable guests, including the Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson DBE MP, Minister of State for the Home Office, government partners, Chief Fire Officers, and fire service leaders from across the UK.

Attendees witnessed simulated scenarios such as catastrophic building collapse, a marauding terrorist attack, mass decontamination, and a major fire in a multi-storey building.

The centre, part of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service’s new Training and Development Academy, features immersive training zones, including a six-storey high-rise building, a row of terraced houses, and a motorway setting.

Other facilities include specialist vehicle garages, a High-Volume Pump training area, a rubble pile for search and rescue training, and practical training classrooms.

A command and control suite is also available to simulate a range of incidents, from small-scale events to major multi-agency responses.

Training facilities and national coordination

The centre aims to enhance the national response to large-scale incidents while equipping firefighters with the necessary skills.

Chief Fire Officer for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Phil Garrigan, stated: “The establishment of the national resilience centre of excellence here in Merseyside acknowledges the contribution the Service makes every day in the field of national resilience and marks a significant milestone in our ambition to further enhance the fire and rescue services response to national emergencies – ensuring the safety and security of communities across the country.”

National Fire Chief Council Chair, Mark Hardingham, highlighted the centre’s importance: “The launch of the National Resilience Centre of Excellence marks a significant advancement in our capacity to train and prepare firefighters for the most challenging and catastrophic events which are the effect of climate change, flooding, wildfires, and conflict – whether through terror or the increasing risk of war.”

Support and vision for the future

Minister of State, The Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson DBE MP, praised the efforts of the National Resilience team and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

She said: “Congratulations to the National Resilience team and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, who have brought this bold vision to life through their ongoing dedication and commitment to public safety.

“This facility will go a long way in making our communities safer, and ensure our brave firefighters are trained to the highest standards to continue their heroic efforts saving lives.”

The new centre is seen as a crucial step in improving fire services across the UK, with a focus on training firefighters to respond effectively to various emergencies.

The collaborative effort between the Merseyside Fire Authority, the Home Office, and the National Fire Chiefs Council is expected to create a lasting legacy for the fire and rescue services.

National Resilience Centre’s collaborative approach

The facility was developed in collaboration with fire and rescue services across the UK, ensuring a unified approach to national resilience.

This partnership aims to provide exceptional training for firefighters, enhancing their preparedness for a wide range of incidents.

The centre’s comprehensive training programs and state-of-the-art facilities are designed to address the evolving challenges faced by emergency services.

By offering realistic and immersive training environments, the centre aims to improve the overall effectiveness and coordination of fire and rescue operations nationwide.

New CPD course on managing false fire alarms launched by Advanced

by Featured NewsFire DetectionTraining

Advanced introduces new CPD course

Advanced has launched a new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course: Managing False Fire Alarms: Tools & Techniques.

This course addresses one of the fire industry’s most persistent challenges by offering professionals the expertise needed to mitigate false fire alarms effectively.

Managing False Fire Alarms – Tools & Techniques is a comprehensive, free CPD course that covers the common causes of false alarms, their impact on safety and business continuity, and effective mitigation strategies.

Attendees will gain in-depth knowledge of alarm verification techniques, investigation delays, BS EN54-2 compliance, and controlled evacuation strategies tailored to various building types.

Course benefits and target audience

The course is delivered by members of the Advanced team with decades of industry experience.

It is ideal for consultants, fire risk assessors, facilities managers, health and safety professionals, and anyone involved in ensuring fire safety.

Attendees will enhance their understanding of false alarm reduction techniques, crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and business continuity.

Matt Jones, Head of Sales for the UK & Ireland at Advanced, said: “At Advanced, we are dedicated to raising industry standards through education.

“Competency in the fire safety industry is crucial, and our new CPD course on managing false fire alarms is another important step in equipping fellow fire-industry professionals with the latest tools and techniques to effectively reduce false and unwanted fire alarm incidents.”

Additional CPD courses by Advanced

Advanced continues to promote industry knowledge through its range of CPD courses.

These include A Guide to BS 8629, which offers practical tips and insights into the key points of the BS 8629:2019+A1:2023 Code of Practice.

This course covers the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of evacuation alert systems for fire and rescue services in buildings containing flats.

To broaden understanding of the BS 5266-1 Code of Practice for the emergency lighting of premises, Advanced runs regular sessions covering The Best Route to Compliance for Your Emergency Lighting.

These CPD courses are approved by the FIA and CPD Certification Service, with participants receiving a certificate of attendance upon successful completion.

Registration details

Anyone interested in enhancing their skills and knowledge can register for the Managing False Fire Alarms CPD course here.

Details of other Advanced CPD courses can be found here.

Advanced is committed to promoting safety through innovative technology and education.

Their extensive portfolio includes fire detection systems, false alarm management, multiprotocol fire panels, evacuation alert systems, and emergency lighting, trusted by professionals worldwide.

For further information on Advanced, contact them at Tel: 0345 894 7000 or visit their website.

Enhanced virtual training program for firefighters launched by NFPA and Vector Solutions

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

NFPA’s virtual training program aims to improve firefighter response to emerging hazards

As reported by the NFPA, Vector Solutions has partnered with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to host the NFPA Fire Incident Response Simulated Training (FIRST) Application.

This virtual training program is designed to enhance firefighter competency in responding to distributed energy technologies and lithium-ion battery fires.

The initiative is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.

The FIRST Application offers a game-like training experience that allows firefighters to train in realistic virtual scenarios.

These scenarios include fighting electric vehicle and energy storage fires in residential garages.

Based on real-world test data, the program provides interactive, multi-user simulations that mirror actual incidents, aiming to improve firefighters’ response times and effectiveness.

Vector Solutions’ role in distributing NFPA training

Vector Solutions has been serving state, county, and municipal governmental entities since 1999, with a particular focus on the Fire and EMS market.

The collaboration with NFPA leverages Vector’s TargetSolutions Training Management System to distribute essential training materials.

This partnership aims to address the evolving needs of modern firefighters through innovative training solutions.

Josh Grossman, General Manager of the Public Sector at Vector Solutions, said: “We are honored to support NFPA in providing their cutting-edge training to firefighters across the country.

“Our work together exemplifies our united commitment to ensuring first responders feel prepared and protected as they battle today’s emergencies.”

NFPA’s vision for digital learning in fire safety

Andrew Klock, NFPA Senior Manager of Education and Development, emphasized the long-term impact of NFPA’s training programs.

He said: “Since the inception of NFPA’s electric vehicle and hybrid fire safety training courses 14 years ago, we’ve seen about 350,000 firefighters benefit from these in-depth lessons.

“Our hope in working with Vector Solutions is to meet the needs of today’s digital learners by using Vector’s responder platforms to reach the millions of first responders who may battle these types of fires in their own communities.”

Tracking firefighter training progress with Vector Solutions

Vector Solutions is supporting this initiative with a pre-built TargetSolutions custom Activity in its training management system.

This feature allows fire departments to track and report on their personnel’s training progress, ensuring they receive the credit deserved for their participation in the simulation.

Access to the NFPA FIRST Training program is available for free, providing an invaluable resource for fire departments across the US.

NEBOSH reveals 2024 Michael Adamson Diploma Scholarship winners

by Featured NewsTraining

NEBOSH awards 2024 scholarships

NEBOSH has announced the recipients of its 2024 Michael Adamson NEBOSH Diploma Scholarship.

This annual programme awards twenty recipients with paid-for study for the NEBOSH Level 6 National or International Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals.

The scholarship is named in memory of Michael Adamson, who lost his life in a preventable workplace incident.

By providing educational opportunities, NEBOSH hopes scholarship recipients will positively influence health and safety to prevent other families from experiencing similar losses.

Selection process and recipients

The 2024 recipients were selected by a judging panel of NEBOSH Diploma holders Helen Tapley-Taylor and Mohamed Adam, NEBOSH’s Dee Arp and Matt Powell-Howard, and Louise Adamson, Michael’s sister and NEBOSH Ambassador.

They commented on each recipient’s passion, commitment to education, and desire to ‘pay it forward’ using their new knowledge to help others.

The recipients are:

  • Katrina May Neve
  • Carys Jones
  • Jodie Rushton
  • George Elliott
  • Katie Eggington
  • Marie Nicholls
  • Terry Barton
  • Daniel Akpesiri Vote
  • Minzah Shehzad
  • Malik Tayyab
  • Xavier Paragsingh
  • Adebara Ifeoluwapo Mayowa
  • Caroline Sylvester Baraza
  • Maria-Rica-Xtra M.
  • Arguel
  • Ewoenam Bediako
  • Jacob Levi Nunu
  • Kehinde Amos Adeyemi
  • Mykhailo Somin
  • Alex Aondoyila Hembaor
  • Moyosore Adebiyi Ademilola

Testimonials from previous winners

Since its introduction in 2021, the Michael Adamson NEBOSH Diploma Scholarship has awarded 34 people with paid-for study and assessment fees for the NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals.

Isaac Mutunga, a 2023 scholarship recipient, said: “Studying for the NEBOSH International Diploma has been an amazing journey.

“It has enhanced my confidence and capabilities, built a better understanding of international legislations, improved my communication skills, enabled me to develop better health and safety policy strategies, risk management strategies, more effective audit management systems for the company.

“Better recognition from other professionals and employers in the industry, increased health and safety consultation recommendations, improved trust and confidence from the clients.

“I would encourage anyone to enter in the 2024 scholarship as this will give them career and professional advantage.”

Abanum Iruoghene Isakpa, another 2023 recipient, shared: “Studying for the NEBOSH Diploma has been enriching, providing profound insights into occupational health and safety.

“The knowledge gained has enhanced my understanding, enabling me to improve workplace safety protocols and assume greater responsibilities.

“Beyond my workplace, I have shared this knowledge though advisory, fostering a culture of safety in society.

“I wholeheartedly recommend aspiring candidates pursue this qualification as it is pivotal for ensuring workplace safety and making a positive societal impact.”

Future opportunities and application details

The Michael Adamson NEBOSH Diploma Scholarship will return in 2025.

Interested individuals can submit their details at the NEBOSH website to register their interest and receive updates when applications reopen.

More information about the scholarship programme and the option to register interest in the 2025 scholarship are available online: Michael Adamson NEBOSH Diploma Scholarship.