IFE’s Elevate series passes 6,000 bookings among fire engineers

Elevate reaches its first anniversary

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is marking the first anniversary of its Elevate webinar series, which launched in April 2025 and has recorded more than 6,000 ticket bookings.

Hosted online by the IFE Early Careers Networking Group (ECNG), the free educational series features guest speakers from across the fire sector and runs in 60-minute sessions.

The IFE said the programme was introduced to support future fire safety professionals through fundamental continuing professional development on a range of topics.

Steve Hamm, CEO of the IFE, said: “It has been a real pleasure to see just how popular our webinar series has become.

“CPD is a crucial aspect of retaining and acquiring knowledge in fire engineering.

“Fire engineering is not a static vocation; it is a discipline that demands continuous learning, innovation and adaptability.

“This series is designed to empower and support the next generation of fire engineering talent, guiding you through the technical knowledge and practical applications that underpin effective fire safety.”

Next Elevate sessions open for booking

Dean Morris, chair of the IFE’s Early Careers Networking Group, added: “Fire safety is not a one-size-fits-all; it requires a complex skill set paired with constant growth, and this was the catalyst for the Elevate series.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved so far with the webinar series.

“It aims to bridge the skills gap within the fire sector and promote a culture of CPD.”

Tickets for the next quarter of sessions cover ethics in the industry, fire safety in schools and atrium design.

Bookings for the 2026 second quarter sessions from April to June are open, and the IFE said organisations can use the programme as part of their ongoing training.

IFE sets out Apprenticeship Week plans plus Edinburgh graduate lecture details

Apprenticeship Week campaign and sector resources

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has set out plans to support National Apprenticeship Week by spotlighting apprentices and promoting sector resources.

In a statement, the IFE said it will use the week to raise awareness of opportunities in the fire sector and share apprentice experiences, including how IFE Student membership has supported development.

The IFE said each day will focus on a different resource, including CPD, events, networking opportunities and a pathway to professional registration.

The organisation said 2026 is the third year it has celebrated apprenticeships.

Ellie Leadon, IFE Student member and a Design Engineer at BB7, said: “An apprenticeship offered the best of both worlds – the chance to gain practical experience while continuing my studies and earning throughout the programme.

“The combination of working on live projects, learning directly from experienced peers, developing both technical and personal skills, and gaining direct insight into the fire engineering industry made an apprenticeship the ideal route for me to gain experience and prepare for a long-term career. “

Events announced alongside the campaign

The IFE has also announced the return of its Graduate Lecture event, scheduled for 13 May at Edinburgh University.

The organisation said the day will showcase research from graduates and include networking opportunities for students to meet employers from across the sector.

IFE CEO Steve Hamm commented: “The IFE is proud to take part in this annual campaign and celebrate up and coming talent.

“As a professional body, it is paramount that we advocate for diversity and support individuals in their professional development.

“The modern apprenticeship pathway not only ensures a more dynamic and inclusive workforce but actively encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences to contribute to the fire sector.”

The IFE also said its Elevate webinar series will continue as a free resource for early career professionals covering topics from across the sector.

The organisation said further information on both events is available on its events page.

The IFE said its Apprenticeship Week campaign on LinkedIn runs from 9 to 15 February 2026.

IFE sets out education pathway for fire safety professionals

Fire safety and the International Day of Education

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has published commentary marking the United Nations’ International Day of Education and linking education to the fire engineering profession.

In the article, the IFE notes that the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 January as International Day of Education to recognise the role education plays in fostering peace and sustainable development.

It describes the day as a reminder that education in fire engineering is connected to saving lives.

The IFE writes: “Education is the foundation of fire safety – without knowledge, we cannot design, innovate or plan to protect communities.”

What the IFE says education should cover

The article sets out the IFE’s view that competence and compliance in fire engineering are non-negotiable because decisions can affect public safety, including choices about materials in a school and evacuation planning for a high-rise building.

It adds that continuous learning helps fire engineers keep up with changing risks, regulations and technology.

The IFE also argues that education should start before professional qualifications and should include teaching children about fire safety and introducing fire engineering as a career option.

It says the IFE offers free Student membership to exam candidates and individuals in fire-related studies, giving access to learning resources, networks and opportunities without financial constraints.

How the IFE describes lifelong learning and CPD

The commentary states that learning continues after qualification and describes CPD as central to maintaining competence and adapting to new challenges.

It says the IFE has built a programme of events, qualifications, resources and initiatives, including an online CPD Hub with webinar recordings and global learning resources, plus a new monthly CPD email introduced this year.

The article includes a perspective from Mabel Higgins, Founder and Director of MH Fire Safety (MHFS), who said: “Becoming a member of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has been invaluable for my professional growth and contribution to the wider fire safety industry.

“It has connected me with a diverse network of experts, enabling the exchange of ideas, technical insights, and best practices across multiple fire engineering disciplines.

“This collaboration has deepened my understanding of emerging challenges and innovations within the built environment.”

It also says the IFE has incorporated digital exams into its educational offering so that fire safety professionals can gain internationally recognised qualifications regardless of location.

CPD certificates now included in ASFP training

ASFP confirms CPD certification for training courses

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has confirmed that all its passive fire protection training courses will now issue CPD Certificates of Attendance.

According to ASFP, the certificates will record learning hours and contribute directly to professional development records for participants.

The organisation stated that the certificates will be recognised by employers, professional bodies, and accreditation schemes, providing formal acknowledgement of skills gained.

ASFP explained that the change applies to all courses, whether delivered online or in a classroom setting.

It added that the certificates will allow delegates to record training hours and evidence their development activities in line with industry expectations.

Training hours assigned to courses

ASFP reported that its training programme now specifies the number of hours attached to each course.

For classroom-based training, Level 2 accounts for 30 hours, and Level 3 covers 42 hours.

In online delivery, awareness training is recorded as 1 hour, and introductory training is recorded as 3 hours.

The Firestopping for Installers course carries 3 hours, Level 2 options count as 8 hours, Level 2 single modules total 4 hours, and Level 3 includes 16 hours.

The association said these allocated hours ensure that delegates can consistently record progress toward CPD requirements.

Range of ASFP training courses

ASFP stated that its courses cater to both new entrants and experienced professionals working in passive fire protection.

The organisation explained that training begins with introductory online modules before progressing to qualifications that support candidates for Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 2 and Level 3 exams.

It added that courses cover the design, installation, and inspection of passive fire protection systems, providing a comprehensive learning framework.

The association noted that in-house training is also available for organisations that wish to train multiple employees together, with delegate numbers capped between 10 and 20.

It advised that bespoke courses can be arranged to meet company-specific needs across the sector.

Alignment with industry standards

ASFP explained that its training structure is designed to support industry-wide competence and aligns with the Building Safety Act.

The organisation stated that short courses such as Building Safety Act awareness and Firestopping for Installers are included in the CPD certification programme.

It confirmed that the certification framework ensures that both introductory and advanced learning achievements are formally recognised.

ASFP added that this approach supports professional accountability and ongoing compliance with competence frameworks.

Connection with IFE examinations

ASFP reported that its Level 2 and Level 3 classroom courses prepare candidates for Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) examinations.

The organisation said that the training is structured to cover the full syllabus required by the IFE while also providing additional learning resources.

It noted that candidates must book their IFE exams separately, and advised scheduling training courses in advance to ensure preparation time.

ASFP added that delegates may also complete transitional e-learning modules to move from Level 2 to Level 3 qualifications.

The body explained that these pathways reinforce the role of ASFP training in supporting formal professional certification.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The introduction of CPD certificates for ASFP training provides fire safety professionals with documented evidence of continuing education.

It ensures that both short and extended training activities can be accurately recorded in CPD logs.

For employers, this provides a verifiable measure of workforce competence in passive fire protection.

It also allows professionals to demonstrate compliance with competence requirements under the Building Safety Act and other regulatory frameworks.

CPD certificates now included in ASFP training: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced that all training courses will now issue CPD Certificates of Attendance.

The certificates will evidence learning hours and contribute to individuals’ professional development records.

ASFP confirmed that the change applies to both classroom and online training programmes.

Delegates will receive certificates listing the hours assigned to each completed course.

Classroom training includes Level 2 at 30 hours and Level 3 at 42 hours.

Online courses include awareness at 1 hour, introduction at 3 hours, Firestopping for Installers at 3 hours, Level 2 options at 8 hours, Level 2 single module at 4 hours, and Level 3 at 16 hours.

ASFP stated that the new framework ensures training achievements are recognised by employers, professional bodies, and accreditation schemes.

The association explained that the initiative supports competence standards in the fire protection sector.

It confirmed that its courses also prepare candidates for Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 2 and Level 3 examinations.

ASFP added that in-house and bespoke training options are available for companies seeking group learning.

The body said that the certification framework aligns with the Building Safety Act.

It added that training achievements can now be clearly documented and verified.

This provides fire safety professionals with evidence of CPD activity for compliance and career development.

C-TEC announces CPD-certified open days at Wigan facility

CPD-certified open days planned for September

C-TEC has announced that it will host three CPD-certified open days at its manufacturing site in Wigan on 16, 17 and 18 September.

According to C-TEC, the events will include a presentation on the BS 5839-1 2025 update, product demonstrations and a guided factory tour.

The company stated that the programme is aimed at professionals in the fire safety sector, including engineers and consultants.

It added that attendees will also be able to gain CPD points through the sessions.

The events will take place at C-TEC’s third-party process approved facility, where its life-safety systems are manufactured.

Presentations on updated fire detection standard

C-TEC said one of the key sessions will focus on the practical implications of the revised BS 5839-1 standard.

The presentation will outline changes introduced in the 2025 update.

The company noted that the session will be CPD-certified and include a question and answer segment.

It added that the aim is to provide attendees with a clear understanding of how the changes affect real-world applications.

Factory tours and equipment demonstrations

C-TEC stated that participants will be taken on a CPD-certified tour of its production facility.

According to the company, the site features advanced manufacturing equipment, including 3D optical and x-ray inspection systems and Yamaha SMT lines.

The firm added that the tours are designed to show how the equipment is used to maintain quality control and minimise error.

Attendees will also have the option to attend product demonstrations in the afternoon.

Product showcase includes CAST-PRO

C-TEC reported that the demonstrations will feature its range of life-safety systems.

The company said this includes the CAST-PRO combined fire detection and alarm device.

It stated that CAST-PRO was named Fire Innovation of the Year.

The firm added that the demonstrations will allow attendees to see the system in operation.

Event schedule

C-TEC listed the following programme for each day.

It said the schedule will begin at 9.30am with refreshments and conclude at 3.30pm.

The morning will feature a welcome presentation, factory tour and the BS 5839-1 2025 update session.

Lunch and networking will take place from 1.00pm to 2.00pm.

Product demonstrations will be available from 2.00pm to 3.30pm.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The open days provide an opportunity for fire safety professionals to gain CPD points while receiving updates on industry standards.

They also allow attendees to see manufacturing processes and quality control measures used in life-safety system production.

The sessions on BS 5839-1 2025 may assist professionals in applying the updated requirements to current and future projects.

The optional demonstrations provide a chance to assess new technology in a practical setting.

C-TEC announces CPD-certified open days at Wigan facility: Summary

C-TEC will host three CPD-certified open days on 16, 17 and 18 September at its Wigan manufacturing site.

The events will include a BS 5839-1 2025 update session, factory tour and optional product demonstrations.

Attendees will be able to gain CPD points from the sessions.

The factory tours will showcase manufacturing equipment such as 3D optical and x-ray inspection systems.

The CAST-PRO combined fire detection and alarm device will be demonstrated.

The open days are aimed at fire safety professionals, engineers and consultants.

The daily schedule runs from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Registration is available via C-TEC’s website.

Free CPD sessions from Injecta Fire Barrier on passive fire protection

UK-based CPD sessions cover cavity fire barrier compliance

Injecta Fire Barrier has announced it is offering free CPD sessions in the UK, focused on cavity and compartment fire barriers.

According to the company, the training sessions are aimed at contractors, surveyors, architects and fire engineers working on buildings affected by fire safety regulations.

The sessions focus on system-tested solutions that help meet compliance with the Fire Safety Act 2021 and Building Safety Act 2022, including the Injectaclad cavity fire barrier system.

Injecta Fire Barrier said the CPDs cover installation methods, compatibility with existing insulation, and documentation processes required for quality assurance.

The company said all sessions are delivered by passive fire protection professionals.

Injectaclad system avoids need to remove façades

Injecta Fire Barrier explained that the Injectaclad solution can be installed without removing the existing façade.

This allows for cavity barrier upgrades without invasive remediation work, reducing disruption and lowering material waste.

The company said the product works with a variety of insulation materials and irregular wall constructions, and supports both horizontal and vertical applications.

According to Injecta Fire Barrier, the process uses a graphite-based acrylic sealant injected into voids, reinforced with mesh and pins.

The material is classed as intumescent, meaning it expands when exposed to heat to help contain fire spread between compartments.

Fire-tested to British and ASFP standards

Injecta Fire Barrier said the Injectaclad system has been tested to BS EN 1366-4 for up to two hours of integrity and insulation.

The product has also been tested to BS 8414-1:2015+A1:2017, which assesses fire performance of external cladding systems.

According to the company, testing was carried out in accordance with ASFP Guidance TGD 19.

These test results support its use in remediation projects requiring documented regulatory compliance.

The company said installation records include image documentation and project references.

Product features support installation in occupied buildings

Injecta Fire Barrier said the product offers advantages for projects taking place in occupied residential buildings.

It is smoke, gas, water and air-tight, and does not require façade removal or relocation of residents during installation.

The company said the material is water soluble, odourless, and does not react with metallic or plastic building components.

It is also resistant to fungi and vermin, and has high expansion properties to ensure cavity sealing on contact with heat.

Injectaclad can be installed in cavity widths up to 200mm.

Managing Director says CPDs provide practical support

Shaun Tasker, Managing Director at Injecta Fire Barrier, said:
“Our CPD sessions are designed to provide practical insight into passive fire protection and compartmentation—enabling project teams to make informed, regulation-compliant decisions without invasive façade work.”

Injecta Fire Barrier said the sessions aim to help participants apply the information directly to current and future remediation projects.

Free CPD sessions from Injecta Fire Barrier on passive fire protection: Summary

Injecta Fire Barrier is offering free CPD sessions for UK construction professionals.

The training is focused on cavity and compartment fire barriers.

It supports compliance with the Fire Safety Act 2021 and Building Safety Act 2022.

The CPD includes guidance on the Injectaclad system, a graphite-based acrylic sealant.

Injectaclad does not require removal of façades and is compatible with PIR insulation.

The system has been tested to BS EN 1366-4 and BS 8414-1 standards.

It is suitable for horizontal and vertical applications, up to 200mm in width.

Injectaclad is water-soluble, odourless and resistant to fungi and vermin.

It expands on contact with heat to contain smoke and fire.

Installations are documented with images for assurance and audit purposes.

The CPD is designed for contractors, surveyors, architects and fire engineers.

Shaun Tasker, Managing Director, said the sessions are intended to support practical, regulation-compliant decisions.

Howler launch CPD fire safety sessions

Howler, provider of temporary fire safety solutions, has announced the launch of their accredited CPD fire safety learning sessions for professionals in the construction industry.

These sessions aim to address knowledge gaps in fire safety, helping teams safeguard projects, comply with regulations and enhance their professional development.

Statistics reveal

According to recent data, the construction industry reports an average of one fire per day on UK sites.  When Howler ran a survey with teams 81% of professionals failed to answer hot works-related safety questions correctly.

These alarming statistics underscore the need for accessible, high-quality training to empower teams and minimise risks.

Associate Director, Howler, Martin Woodfield’s statement

Martin Woodfield, Associate Director at Howler said: “Our mission is about driving fire safety excellence across the construction industry.

“By offering accredited CPD sessions, we aim to ensure that fire safety isn’t just a compliance checkbox but a cornerstone of every construction project.”

Features of the fire safety training

There are a range of sessions available each taking around 30-minutes to deliver.  They are available virtually via Teams or face-to-face and provide practical, actionable insights into:

  • Commonly overlooked areas of the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP)
  • Key updates to the JCoP
  • Fire safety in temporary accommodation
  • Lithium battery risks and mitigation strategies
  • Maintaining safe escape routes
  • Best practices for managing and performing hot works

The training is accredited by the CPD Certification Service, ensuring participants earn credits towards their professional learning objectives while enhancing their knowledge of essential safety protocols.

CPD fire safety learning sessions launched by Howler: Summary

Howler’s training resources has been accredited by the CPD Certification Service. These sessions are for professionals in the construction industry. Howler’s Associate Director said the accreditation proves that fire safety isn’t just a compliance checkbox but a cornerstone of every construction project.

CPD course launched by Bull Products

Bull Products, a provider of temporary fire, safety and access control solutions for the construction industry and other applications, has announced the launch of its new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training entitled ‘Construction Site Fire Safety’.

The presentation is designed to support professionals in the construction industry as they navigate the demands of a rapidly changing fire detection and alarm market.

Head of Sales at Bull Products, Carl Leeson’s statement

Carl Leeson, Head of Sales at Bull Products, commented on the launch of the new course, saying it: “Reflects our commitment to fostering lifelong learning. In today’s evolving fire detection and alarm industry, continuous education is essential to remain competitive.

“The CPD course offers participants enhanced knowledge on the latest regulations as well as product solutions, helping them grow within their roles and fulfil crucial professional obligations.”

Features of the course

With an emphasis on practical skills, innovation, and real-world applications, the CPD course is designed to provide attendees with valuable opportunities to stay ahead of emerging trends and best practices.

The course covers the types of wireless fire alarm systems available, wireless system differences, correct location and designs on site, Fire Risk Assessments, the importance of third-party approval and testing frequencies.

Those attending the course will learn how construction site safety, equipment and knowledge can be improved. This will be done by learning about the different systems that are available, where they can be used and the pros and cons of each type of system.

The course will also take a deeper look at the design of a fire detection and alarm system and explain why it is important to use approved fire detection and alarm installation companies to secure full coverage and protection.

Bull Products announce the launch of their new CPD course: Summary

Bull Products has announced the launch of their new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training entitled ‘Construction Site Fire Safety’. This course has been designed to give attendees a greater understanding of the changing fire detection and alarm market.

Cygnus introduces CPD course for wireless fire alarm technology

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.

Passive fire protection CPD launched by Promat to aid structural steel specification

New CPD from Promat to support fire safety regulations compliance

Promat has introduced a new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme.

The initiative aims to help professionals specify systems that protect structural steel from fire, supporting compliance with fire safety standards.

The CPD is designed to address the importance of early and accurate specification in line with the UK Building Safety Act.

The training will cover several critical applications of passive fire protection systems for structural steel.

These include issues related to compartmentation and the role of fire protection boards in ensuring the steel retains its integrity during a fire.

Overview of passive fire protection for structural steel

The new CPD also details the challenges faced in designing fire protection systems for structural steel.

Among the areas covered are the implications of various interfaces, the need for tested solutions to safeguard compartmentation, and specific issues like the inclusion of cellular beams.

Promat’s CPD offers guidance on how these factors influence fire safety.

This training highlights the importance of collaboration between architects, specifiers, and engineers in early project stages to ensure passive fire protection systems are accurately integrated into building designs.

Insights from Promat UK leadership

Joshua Slack, Commercial Director at Promat UK, explained the focus of the CPD: “Maintaining the load-bearing capacity of structural steel under fire conditions is crucial to building safety.

“The aim of this CPD is to provide a strong grounding in the testing standards that manufacturers should follow, and give comprehensive insights into the specification of passive fire protection systems that are proven to perform in protecting structural steel, and backed by third-party testing.”

He added: “Getting the specification right at the first stage is essential. Promat advocates collaboration between stakeholders at the earliest stage of a project, involving architects and specifiers to ensure passive fire protection systems adequately support the design.”

Focus on regulatory changes and testing standards

The CPD examines the evolving regulatory landscape, including updates to Part B regulations and the shift from British Standards (BS) to European Norms (EN) standards.

Promat highlights the need for professionals to stay informed on these changes to ensure compliance.

The training also emphasises the importance of third-party testing to ensure that fire protection systems for structural steel are certified and meet the required safety levels.

Various applications, such as the protection of steel beams in compartmentation systems, are also discussed.

Passive fire protection CPD launched by Promat to aid structural steel specification: Summary

Promat has launched a new CPD designed to improve confidence in specifying passive fire protection systems for structural steel.

The training focuses on the need for early and accurate specification in line with the UK Building Safety Act.

It addresses issues such as compartmentation and interfacing, along with the importance of using tested and certified fire protection boards.

Joshua Slack, Commercial Director at Promat UK, emphasised the importance of collaboration in the design stage to ensure fire safety measures are integrated properly.

The CPD also covers regulatory updates and testing standards to support compliance with current fire safety regulations.