NSI and BAFE report finds 94 per cent of buyers prioritise competence over cost in fire safety

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Certified competence becomes primary driver in fire safety procurement

UK organisations are increasingly prioritising evidence of competence over service cost when appointing fire protection providers.

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) and BAFE Fire Safety Register (BAFE) commissioned the Fire Safety Report 2026 to examine changing procurement trends.

Findings indicate that 94% of decision makers now value proof of competence more than the price of the service.

This data suggests a move away from price-led procurement as 81% of respondents stated that certified providers are worth the additional expense.

Independent auditing and certification were ranked among the strongest signals of trust by 79% of those surveyed.

Furthermore 83% of participants recognise third party certification as a verified method to demonstrate the competence of fire assessors.

Investment in the sector is also projected to grow with 77% of organisations expecting to increase their spending over the coming five years.

Among those who claim full awareness of their legal obligations this figure rises to 85%.

Growing scrutiny of fire safety compliance and legal duties

While awareness of fire protection has improved over the last decade many individuals responsible for risk management remain uncertain about their specific legal duties.

The research established that 89% of decision makers view fire protection as a strategic business priority.

Despite this increased status fire safety was ranked fifth in overall importance behind general health and safety and cost control.

Approximately 59% of buyers describe their current investment levels as high.

The report noted that 93% of respondents see more action on fire protection than was evident five years ago.

A total of 45% of organisations view these measures as a compliance necessity.

In contrast 34% see it as a moral duty and 21% believe it supports wider business operations.

One in four decision makers believes that fire protection is still not treated with sufficient seriousness within their organisation.

The report states: “Buyers are looking for reassurance.”

“As fire safety awareness grows, buyers become less willing to take reputational or legal risks with unverified suppliers.”

“In today’s market, it is no longer enough to say you are competent.”

“You need to show it, prove it, and have it verified independently.”

The full report is available via the NSI website from 1 May 2026.

BAFE Holdings names Lewis Ramsay as new Group Chief Operating Officer

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

BAFE Holdings appoints Lewis Ramsay as Group Chief Operating Officer

BAFE Holdings has announced the appointment of Lewis Ramsay as Group Chief Operating Officer, effective Monday 3 November 2025.

Ramsay brings more than 30 years of experience in operations and strategic leadership within the fire safety sector.

He will oversee operational strategy and implementation across all BAFE-owned companies.

According to BAFE, his appointment supports the Group’s commitment to operational excellence and continued growth.

BAFE leadership welcomes Ramsay to the Group

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, Group Chief Executive Officer of BAFE Holdings, welcomed the appointment and highlighted Ramsay’s sector knowledge and leadership experience.

Dr Maltby-Smith said: “We are delighted to welcome Lewis to the BAFE Group.

“His extensive operational expertise, leadership experience and knowledge of BAFE, FireQual and the fire safety sector will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our business and deliver long-term value for our stakeholders.”

Ramsay reflects on joining BAFE Holdings

Ramsay expressed enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to contribute to BAFE’s ongoing development.

Lewis Ramsay, Group Chief Operating Officer at BAFE Holdings, said: “I was honoured to accept the role of BAFE Group Chief Operating Officer and, I look forward to getting started and doing all that I can to help the BAFE Group further develop their proven track record in improving standards across the fire safety sector.

“These are very exciting times, and I count myself very fortunate to be taking on this role at a time of change, growth and development.”

BAFE stated that his appointment will further enhance operational effectiveness and support the organisation’s long-term sustainability objectives.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The appointment of Lewis Ramsay as Group Chief Operating Officer at BAFE Holdings will be of interest to professionals working in certification, competency development and organisational compliance within the fire safety sector.

BAFE oversees schemes that define and maintain third-party certification for fire safety service providers, while FireQual manages qualifications and training frameworks for industry professionals.

Ramsay’s leadership background and familiarity with BAFE’s structure may influence how these areas evolve operationally, potentially shaping future standards and pathways for accredited organisations and practitioners.

BAFE announces company restructure and new legal name

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentSafety

BAFE changes legal structure and parent company name

British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE) has announced a legal name change to BAFE Holdings Limited, alongside a new operational structure for its certification activities.

According to BAFE, the transition took effect in the current quarter and is intended to reflect the organisation’s broader scope of work beyond its original remit.

The company said that all BAFE Scheme activity will now be conducted by BAFE Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of BAFE Holdings Limited.

BAFE stated that the change does not affect the operation of its fire safety schemes or the structure of its current team.

It added that its ongoing role in supporting competency within the fire safety sector will continue without alteration.

No changes to BAFE branding or contact structure

According to BAFE, the organisation’s existing branding remains unchanged following the restructure.

The company confirmed that the BAFE Fire Safety Register logo and the BAFE Registered Organisation logo will both remain in use without modification.

BAFE stated that registered organisations can continue to use the same logos and materials previously approved.

It added that the restructure does not affect any existing registration or participation in BAFE schemes.

The team supporting BAFE schemes also remains in place, with no changes to staffing or contact processes.

BAFE explains motivation behind new structure

The organisation said the decision was made to reflect the wider scope of its current and future work.

According to BAFE, the original legal name aligned with its early mission, but did not fully represent the present direction of the business.

It said that the restructure allows for clearer separation between the holding company and the scheme operations arm, while retaining the BAFE brand.

BAFE explained that the reorganisation helps position the company for future developments in the fire safety certification sector.

In its statement, BAFE said it remains committed to robust scheme management and supporting fire safety competency across the UK.

BAFE introduces BAFE Holdings Limited as new company name: Summary

British Approvals for Fire Equipment has changed its legal name to BAFE Holdings Limited.

All BAFE Scheme activity will now be managed by BAFE Limited.

BAFE Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of BAFE Holdings Limited.

The BAFE Fire Safety Register logo will remain unchanged.

The BAFE Registered Organisation logo will also remain unchanged.

No changes have been made to the BAFE team or contact arrangements.

The restructure is intended to reflect the broader scope of BAFE’s current and future work.

BAFE stated that its commitment to fire safety competency and scheme management remains the same.

FireQual appoints David White and Colin Todd to UK board

by Featured NewsPeople

New appointments aim to support UK fire safety qualifications

FireQual has announced the appointment of David White and Colin Todd to its board of directors.

According to FireQual, the appointments bring over 100 years of combined experience to the organisation, with a specific focus on advancing fire safety qualifications in the United Kingdom.

David White joins with immediate effect.

FireQual stated that White has over 50 years of experience in the sector, including 30 years in the fire and rescue services.

White is Chairman and former President of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers.

He has contributed to the development of both UK and international fire safety standards.

White said: “I trust that I can support its growth and provide the industry with robust, regulated qualifications that best represent the skills and knowledge required to work in the industry today.”

Colin Todd brings regulatory and committee experience

FireQual reported that Colin Todd has also joined its board.

Todd has five decades of experience in the fire safety field and has received national honours for his contributions.

He has worked extensively with organisations including the British Standards Institution and the Fire Industry Association.

Todd has also participated in multiple government committees.

The organisation stated that his work in consultancy, training and standards development has influenced national practice.

Todd said: “The importance of training new and existing members of the fire safety profession cannot be overestimated and has always been a passion of mine.

“I look forward to the challenges of FireQual’s role in raising standards within the profession.”

Board changes reflect strategic focus on training and regulation

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the BAFE Group, commented on the appointments.

Maltby-Smith said: “These key appointments underscore FireQual’s unwavering commitment to excellence in fire safety training and assessment.

“By valuing experience in leadership, FireQual continues to elevate the standards of regulated qualifications across the industry, ensuring professionals have the real-world skills and knowledge needed to protect lives and property.”

FireQual confirmed that both appointments are effective immediately.

The organisation added that the new board members will contribute to the development of its qualification framework.

FireQual aligns board with sector requirements in the UK

According to FireQual, the decision to expand its board reflects ongoing changes in the UK fire safety sector.

The organisation stated that aligning leadership with industry expectations will help ensure qualifications meet national regulatory standards.

It added that both appointees bring direct experience of delivering training and influencing policy.

FireQual also confirmed that its qualifications are regulated and designed to reflect real-world fire safety roles.

FireQual appoints David White and Colin Todd to UK board: Summary

FireQual has added two new members to its board.

David White has over 50 years of experience, including 30 years in fire and rescue services.

White is Chairman and former President of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers.

Colin Todd has also joined the board.

Todd has five decades of fire safety experience and has received national honours.

He has worked with BSI, the FIA and government committees.

FireQual said the appointments aim to support regulated fire safety qualifications in the UK.

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith of the BAFE Group welcomed the appointments.

Both appointments are effective immediately.

Darren Ellis appointed as new Qualifications Manager at FireQual

by Featured NewsPeopleTraining

FireQual announces new Qualifications Manager

FireQual, the specialist awarding organisation for the fire safety sector, has announced Darren Ellis as their new Qualifications Manager.

As reported by BAFE, Darren Ellis is a recognised expert in the regulatory and qualification development sector, with over 15 years of teaching and training experience both nationally and internationally.

Ellis’s recent work includes supporting the creation of the Military Qualifications Centre (MQC) in Abu Dhabi, providing qualifications for the United Arab Emirates Safety, Defence, and Emergency and Crisis Management (SDEC) sectors.

Prior to this, he worked with the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) as their Qualifications, Compliance, and Assessment Manager.

Extensive regulatory experience

Darren Ellis also brings significant knowledge from his nine years of work in education regulation.

He has previously worked with the English regulator Ofqual and later assisted in establishing the new Welsh regulator, Qualifications Wales.

His contributions supported the development of regulatory requirements for awarding organisations, particularly the ‘Standard Conditions of Recognition’ for both countries.

Ellis stated: “I am excited and eager to be part of FireQual and to use my expertise and experience to support their strategic aims to maintain safety within the industry.

“With a lot of change on the horizon and growth within the sector, I will continue to work with our established and much valued stakeholders to ensure FireQual’s qualifications remain fit for purpose and have real currency.”

Support from FireQual leadership

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, Group Managing Director of BAFE and FireQual, commented on the appointment: “Darren’s skills, knowledge and experience will support the aspirations of FireQual moving forward, including the ongoing development and growth of both new and existing qualifications.

“As Darren notes, we are on the precipice of change within the industry, where FireQual are confident that regulated qualifications will become part of the growing requirements to demonstrate knowledge to work within the life safety industry.

“His support during this time shall be extremely valuable and we welcome him to the team.”

Upcoming BAFE conference

Justin Maltby-Smith added: “Darren will be joining us at the BAFE Conference on 12 June 2024, so please do register if you wish to meet Darren and discuss regulated qualifications.

FireQual Board Member Jim Fitzpatrick will also be speaking on the topic of regulated qualifications on the day.”

The BAFE Conference 2024 is scheduled to be held at FSM Live on June 12 in Coventry.

Interested participants can register for a free ticket to attend.

FireQual secures Ofqual approval for regulated fire safety qualifications

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

In a recent development, FireQual Awarding Organisation has obtained Ofqual approval, enabling them to offer both Ofqual and SQA Regulated Qualifications to professionals in the fire safety sector.

Recognition from Ofqual: A major milestone for FireQual

Lewis Ramsay, FireQual Chair, remarked: “This is a great milestone for FireQual, and we thank Ofqual for recognising the significance of making fire safety qualifications accessible to the industry.

“We strongly believe that the demands for competency are set to rise, with professionals in the sector increasingly needing to prove their relevant knowledge before undertaking any task.”

FireQual’s commitment to enhancing fire safety competency

Justin Maltby-Smith, BAFE and FireQual Managing Director, stated: “This is a huge achievement for FireQual, and we are delighted to have been awarded this recognition.

“FireQual already deliver nationally recognised Regulated Qualifications via SQA, however achieving Ofqual approval further supports the sector to develop additional avenues that provide access to regulated fire safety qualifications.”

Douglas Barnett, BAFE Chair, added to the sentiment: “It has been a lengthy process to achieve Ofqual, and we are extremely proud to gain this approval.

“FireQual will now be developing additional qualifications to build on the individual competence requirements that are being introduced into the fire sector.

“BAFE will continue to introduce the requirement of regulated qualifications for individuals working within an organisation looking to achieve or maintain their BAFE Scheme Registration.”

Ensuring a regulated qualification aligns with the needs of its users is paramount.

FireQual’s strategy, when introducing or reassessing qualifications, includes both theoretical and practical components in its Qualification Specification.

This dual approach instils confidence in the market, signifying that a FireQual qualification holder possesses not only the requisite knowledge but also the applicable skills.

FireQual is enthusiastic about collaborating with UK training providers who are keen to deliver Ofqual Regulated Qualifications.

Such partnerships will amplify the number of FireQual Approved Training Centres, facilitating individuals in showcasing their expertise, a crucial part of the broader demonstration of proficiency in the fire safety domain.

IFSJ Comment

The Ofqual approval for FireQual signifies a shift in the landscape of fire safety qualifications in the UK.

As the demand for heightened competency in the sector grows, the availability of robust, regulated qualifications becomes even more crucial.

FireQual’s move not only ensures the provision of such qualifications but also amplifies the emphasis on both theoretical and practical knowledge.

The prospective collaboration with additional training providers further cements the commitment to broadening access and enhancing the credibility of training in the fire safety industry.

Ken Bullock appointed as BAFE’s new Technical Schemes and Assurance Manager

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Ken Bullock joins the BAFE team: A key development for the fire safety sector

British Approval for Fire Equipment (BAFE) has announced the induction of Ken Bullock as their Technical Schemes and Assurance Manager.

Bullock is a distinguished figure in the fire safety domain and brings with him an impressive 35 years of industry experience.

His journey began with pioneering efforts in wireless fire detection and alarm technology.

Working closely with both the FIA and BRE, Bullock played an instrumental role in the advancement of this technology.

His noteworthy contributions include leading the development of EN54 part 25 and being recognised as the UK’s primary expert in the CEN working group.

Furthermore, his interactions with industry leaders led to his involvement in the creation of standards for automatic fire and detection systems.

Ken Bullock’s journey before BAFE

Before his role at BAFE, Bullock worked as the Business Development Manager for Evacuation Alert Systems at Advanced.

He is also renowned for his valuable insights on BS 8629 and has worked collaboratively to enhance both the standard and its understanding in the market.

Regarding his new role, Bullockremarked: “I’m excited and privileged to join BAFE. Using my knowledge and industry experience, we can elevate the fire industry’s competency.

“I will be focusing on fortifying partnerships with BAFE’s stakeholders to refine and expand the BAFE Schemes in alignment with pertinent standards and emerging technologies.

“Having always advocated for UKAS Accredited Third-Party Certification as a proof of competency, I’m thrilled to match my principles with BAFE’s.”

In response to this appointment, Justin Maltby-Smith, Group Managing Director of BAFE, commented: “We are pleased that Ken is now part of our team. His vast industry knowledge will unquestionably enrich the BAFE workforce.

“Given the growing demand for undeniable competency evidence, something BAFE is keenly aware of, Ken will be pivotal in spearheading this critical initiative.

“Moreover, with the fire safety mandates of Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022 coming into action [as of 01/10/2023], it further underscores the need for adherence to fire safety norms.

“We remain committed to championing the significance of UKAS Accredited Third-Party Certification and refining our Schemes to consistently reflect top-tier competence.”

IFSJ Comment

Ken Bullock‘s appointment to the BAFE team highlights the organisation’s dedication to bolstering fire safety standards and practices in the UK.

With his extensive experience and collaborative efforts in introducing and developing new technologies and standards, Ken’s role will be crucial in addressing the ever-evolving challenges in the fire safety sector.

As the UK grapples with the critical implications of the Building Safety Act 2022, such strategic appointments underscore the importance of fostering competency and ensuring rigorous adherence to fire safety measures.

The alignment of such industry stalwarts with organisations like BAFE exemplifies the commitment to a safer future and raises the bar for fire safety competence.

BAFE advances competency standards in fire detection and alarm system operations

by Featured NewsFire DetectionTraining

BAFE, the acknowledged authority on fire safety regulations, recently unveiled the latest version of its SP203-1 Scheme Document.

Following an exhaustive evaluation, the BAFE Fire Safety Register has announced the release of Version 8.0 of their BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme Document for the Design, Installation, Commissioning, and Maintenance of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems.

Adjustments in light of evolving fire detection competency measures

Key revisions have been made to factor in recent shifts in competency regulations, including documents like the BSI Flex 8670, which establishes core criteria for building safety within competence frameworks.

This update ensures that the relevant skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours are incorporated into the BAFE SP203-1 Scheme Document.

In light of the newly introduced standards, BAFE has also emphasised the competence requirements for individuals.

Moreover, new additions, such as nominating a Lead Individual for each of the modules – design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance – have been implemented.

These individuals are equipped with advanced competency criteria, essential for overseeing and bolstering the organisation’s management systems concerning fire detection.

Feedback and insights from BAFE leadership

Matt Darville, who chairs the BAFE SP203-1 Monitoring Committee, said: “The review of the document was comprehensive, taking into account both our goals to clarify standards and the insights provided by various members of the Monitoring Committee.

“These revisions to the BAFE SP203-1 Scheme Document are logical, but they heighten the proficiency expectations for everyone in an organisation involved in fire detection and alarm work.

“We believe these standards are attainable and serve as a testament to the optimal demonstration of competency in this field.”

Additionally, Lewis Ramsay, a BAFE Board Director, commented: “BAFE and the SP203-1 Monitoring Committee’s efforts have resulted in a much-improved document.

“Given the fast-evolving nature of the fire industry, staying updated is challenging.

“It’s crucial for those in charge, be it the Responsible Person, Duty Holder, or premises manager, to validate their measures in adhering to fire safety norms.

“BAFE Schemes offer a platform for the industry to showcase their proficiency, with third-party certifications serving as a distinctive marker for those seeking services from organisations committed to life safety.”

The complete BAFE SP203-1 Scheme Document Version 8.0 can be accessed on the BAFE website.

IFSJ Comment

The recent updates by BAFE highlight an evolving landscape in fire safety.

It’s evident that, as the industry grows and changes, there’s a pressing need for stringent competency measures.

This new document, Version 8.0 of the BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme, serves as a beacon for those in the field.

By raising standards and ensuring that individuals and organisations adhere to them, BAFE is setting the tone for a safer future.

We commend these advancements and see them as a pivotal step towards an industry where fire detection and safety are paramount.

Howard Passey joins the BAFE Board of Directors, bringing extensive fire safety experience

by Featured NewsPeople

In recent developments, BAFE Fire Safety Register has confirmed that Howard Passey has accepted an invitation to join their board of directors.

This news comes straight from BAFE and marks a significant addition to their board, which works towards improving fire safety measures and standards across the UK.

Passey’s professional journey: an overview

Howard Passey, currently serving as the Deputy Managing Director of the Fire Protection Association (FPA), has a career that spans various roles within the FPA since he joined in 1992.

He began as a Training/Information Officer, later serving as Principal Consultant and then as Director of Operations.

Before his journey with the FPA, Passey spent eight years in the construction industry, having originally trained as a land surveyor.

Impact on BAFE: Boosting competence and certification

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, Group Managing Director of the BAFE Fire Safety Register, expressed his excitement about this development: “Howard’s esteemed career, knowledge, and skills made him an important addition to the BAFE Board.”

He added that Howard’s insights would be extremely welcome, especially in “raising the bar of competency, and raising the profile of third-party certification.”

Passey’s response: A crucial time for the sector

On accepting the position, Howard stated: “It was an easy decision to make when BAFE asked if I would be interested in joining their Board of Directors.”

He acknowledged the recent improvements BAFE had made to their operation, competency schemes, and sector engagement.

Howard added that he was looking forward to “ensure robust avenues are available to the sector to evidence their competence.”

He considered his engagement with the board and the BAFE team as an opportunity to assist in decision-making and guidance.

IFSJ Comment

From the perspective of International Fire & Safety Journal, this development is significant as it denotes a strategic step by BAFE towards enhancing fire safety standards across the UK.

Passey’s rich experience and expertise in fire risk assessment and management will undoubtedly add value to BAFE’s ongoing efforts.