ASFP prepares for resumption of face-to-face classroom training

by Passive

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) is preparing to resume face-to-face classroom training with several Autumn dates for the Level 2 and Level 3 Foundation Course in Passive Fire Protection in Dublin and a Level 2 Course in Passive Fire Protection commencing in Coventry on Wednesday 8 July.

With numbers restricted in order to comply with social distancing requirements, the July course is now fully booked, but the Association will shortly be announcing new Autumn dates in the UK.

On that note, the following courses are scheduled to take place at the Carlton Hotel (Dublin Airport) in the Autumn: Level 2 course (15, 22 and 29 September and 6 October), Level 3 course: 17 September, 1, 8, 20 and 27 October, 3 November and 25 February 2021).

The training courses are the first in the UK and Ireland to enable candidates to study to obtain a recognised qualification in passive fire protection. Individuals who undertake the training will have the opportunity to progress to Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Passive Fire Protection provided by the Institution of Fire Engineers, itself a nationally and internationally recognised awarding organisation regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual).

The ASFP also offers an online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection course designed to equip new entrants to the sector with a basic knowledge of passive fire protection and its role in the overall fire strategy of a building.

Consisting of 13 short online videos, each of them around ten-to-15 minutes in length, the course is designed to provide a broad understanding of the subject of passive fire protection. Learners will gain knowledge of all types of passive fire protection systems. There are also modules on fire safety in buildings, human behaviour in fire, fire testing, contractor responsibilities and the role of active fire protection.

Successful completion of the e-Learning course will enable delegates to better understand the role of the various fire safety measures in the built environment, and particularly so passive fire protection. On completion of an online multiple-choice test, learners receive confirmation of completion and are awarded three hours of Continuing Professional Development.

ASFP to partner with British Coatings Federation

by Projects

After spending the last 40 years running its administrative operations via the offices of Association Group Management (AGM) Ltd in Bordon, the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) is to appoint the British Coatings Federation (BCF) as its new secretariat service provider.

The move is due to the ASFP’s significant growth in recent years and its need for full-time administrative support for its ever-broadening training and member support programmes. The decision will involve transferring the ASFP’s entire secretariat and administration function to the BCF’s headquarters in Coventry with the aim of completing this process in the next few months.

The organisations have agreed to part by mutual consent to enable each to further develop their own services and operations. The move offers the ASFP opportunity for continued growth in all aspects of its operations and will enable the organisation to continue to provide appropriate support for its expanding membership.

Other considerations such as location, meeting facilities and business management were also major factors in the ASFP’s choice of new service provider. The new arrangement offers the benefit of access to in-house meeting facilities along with further efficiencies in accounting, administrative and customer relationship management systems, as well as enhancements to the website and media interfaces.

The new partnership also offers the opportunity to develop greater synergy between the two organisations, allowing both to pool their shared expertise in matters relating to fire safety.

Although the Coronavirus outbreak may impact on short-term growth, the ASFP believes the change remains essential in protecting the Association’s current position, while also future proofing for the anticipated growth in membership and services in the coming years.

Commenting on the move, ASFP CEO Niall Rowan told Fire Safety Matters: “The ASFP’s strong growth in recent years, coupled with our significant expansion into training, means that the Association’s interests can be better served by an organisation that’s situated in a more central location, much nearer to our membership base and closer to ASFP officers. The BCF offers outstanding facilities and the opportunity to develop a more synergistic relationship going forward. We’re sure members will notice that the services we offer will develop significantly with the excellent support available from the BCF.”

Rowan added: “I would like to thank Association Group Management Ltd for their long and dedicated service and their continued loyalty and support, which has enabled the ASFP to develop into the thriving organisation it is today. We wish them every success in the future.”