Fire Protection Association revises membership scheme to enhance industry support

by Featured NewsPeople

FPA updates membership categories and benefits

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has introduced changes to its membership scheme, aimed at providing enhanced support for fire safety and construction professionals.

According to the FPA, the revised scheme introduces three membership categories: Individual, Small Business, and Corporate. These categories are designed to differentiate between company sizes and ensure appropriate access to the organisation’s technical guidance and resources. Existing members will transition to their corresponding category upon renewal, while new members will automatically join under the updated structure.

FPA CEO Dr Gavin Dunn said: “Our membership offering supports fire safety and construction professionals with the challenges they face on a daily basis through the provision of technical expertise and guidance. This is more important now than ever following the introduction of the Building Safety Act and as the nature of risk continues to evolve.”

New benefits introduced for members

The updated scheme includes several new benefits, such as the ability for members to contribute to FPA guidance, research projects, and consultation responses. Members will also have access to an expanded programme of CPD-approved webinars in 2025.

These webinars will cover topics including modern methods of construction, fire risk assessor competence frameworks, and updates to the LPC Sprinkler Rules. Quarterly Q&A sessions with FPA technical consultants will continue, providing members with opportunities to discuss key topics such as the government’s response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Report.

The FPA has also made its suite of e-courses available to members, covering fire safety topics such as hot works, fire warden roles, and fire door inspections.

Digital and technical resources for members

The FPA is working to enhance its digital Fire & Risk Management Journal, which will be available in an interactive format from spring 2025. This will include audio and video content as well as improved search functionality.

Members will also have access to updated technical mini guides, which summarise key industry guidance. Additional training information packs and downloadable business templates will be available to support organisations in implementing fire safety best practices.

James Stone from the FPA said: “Our research and guidance are at the core of our membership scheme, especially when it comes to ensuring our members have access to what they need, when they need it, to carry out their day-to-day responsibilities.”

New Code of Professional Conduct introduced

A new Code of Professional Conduct has been introduced as part of the updated membership scheme. The FPA states that while membership does not accredit or endorse products or services, all new and renewing members must now commit to this code, which sets expectations for integrity, professional behaviour, and competency.

The FPA said the code aims to ensure that members maintain professional standards and that customers can expect a consistent level of service.

Fire Protection Association revises membership scheme to enhance industry support: Summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has updated its membership scheme, introducing three categories: Individual, Small Business, and Corporate. Existing members will be transitioned upon renewal, and new members will join under the revised structure.

New benefits include the ability for members to contribute to FPA guidance and research, access to an expanded CPD webinar programme, and availability of e-courses covering fire safety topics.

The digital Fire & Risk Management Journal will be enhanced with an interactive format in 2025. Additional technical resources such as updated mini guides, training packs, and downloadable templates will also be available.

A new Code of Professional Conduct has been introduced, requiring members to commit to professional standards in integrity, behaviour, and competency.

Validity of EWS1 forms questioned after fire engineer sanction

by Building ManagementConstructionSafety

Fire Protection Association raises concerns over EWS1 forms

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has reported concerns over the validity of some External Wall System (EWS1) forms following disciplinary action against fire engineer Adam Kiziak.

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) suspended Kiziak for six months in August 2024 after finding breaches of its code of conduct, including failure to maintain adequate professional indemnity insurance and working outside professional competence.

In December 2024, Inside Housing reported that independent audits commissioned by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) had overturned some of Kiziak’s fire risk assessments.

On 21 January 2025, IFE confirmed that the sanction against Kiziak had been extended due to ongoing complaints, which remain under investigation.

The organisation stated that the sanction would stay in place until investigations concluded.

Mortgage lenders respond to concerns over EWS1 forms

Following Kiziak’s suspension, mortgage lender Nationwide temporarily halted lending on buildings that had been signed off by Kiziak and Tri Fire.

A spokesperson for Nationwide told Inside Housing: “We take building safety very seriously and Tri Fire’s current suspension means that we are temporarily unable to make lending decisions based on its reports without further information and validation.”

The spokesperson added that responsibility for ensuring valid reports rested with building owners.

Nationwide stated that it was working with stakeholders to address cases impacted by the suspension.

IFE acknowledged the impact of the issue on mortgage approvals and stated that it was engaging with UK Finance to assess the broader implications of its member sanctions.

UK Finance advised individuals with concerns to contact their mortgage lenders directly.

Housing associations and public bodies take action

Notting Hill Genesis issued guidance to leaseholders on 27 January 2025 regarding EWS1 forms rejected by lenders.

The housing association stated that its internal review of the peer review process used by Tri Fire found it to be insufficiently robust.

As a result, Notting Hill Genesis announced that it would cease using Tri Fire and instead commission new EWS1 forms through alternative fire engineering consultants.

It also warned leaseholders that fire engineer demand was high and waiting times could exceed the current 8 to 10 weeks.

Tri Fire suspended from government-approved panel

Homes England has suspended Tri Fire from its panel of firms approved to carry out fire risk appraisals of external walls (FRAEWs) under the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS).

As reported by Construction News, a Freedom of Information request revealed that Tri Fire had completed more than 60 FRAEWs for CSS applicants before its suspension.

A spokesperson for Homes England stated that the organisation was aware of the allegations against Tri Fire and had suspended the firm from its assessor panel.

The spokesperson added that an audit was underway to review Tri Fire reports, with additional control measures in place for assessments conducted before the suspension.

Michael Wharfe, partner at Devonshires law firm, told Construction News that ensuring the accuracy of fire risk assessments was essential before CSS applications or remedial work proceeded.

A lawyer acting for Tri Fire told BBC News that the firm was working to resolve the issues and was considering alternative peer review options.

Validity of EWS1 forms questioned after fire engineer sanction: Summary

Concerns have been raised over the validity of some EWS1 forms following the suspension of fire engineer Adam Kiziak by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).

Kiziak was sanctioned in August 2024 for breaches of professional standards, with the sanction extended in January 2025 due to further complaints.

Mortgage lender Nationwide temporarily halted lending decisions on properties assessed by Kiziak and Tri Fire.

IFE stated that it was engaging with UK Finance to address the impact of the issue on mortgage approvals.

Notting Hill Genesis announced it would no longer use Tri Fire for EWS1 assessments following an internal review.

Homes England suspended Tri Fire from its approved panel for the Cladding Safety Scheme, pending an audit of previous fire risk assessments.

A lawyer representing Tri Fire said the firm was working to resolve the situation.

Fire risk assessors need mandatory accreditation, says FPA’s Howard Passey in response to Grenfell Tower Inquiry

by Associations and OrganisationsBuilding ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Grenfell Tower Inquiry highlights failures in fire risk assessments

FPA, Senior Technical Consultant Howard Passey has commented on the crucial role of fire risk assessors (FRAs) in light of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

The inquiry exposed serious shortcomings in fire risk assessments at Grenfell Tower, where assessors failed to identify critical hazards, including the flammable cladding, faulty fire doors, and inadequate evacuation plans for vulnerable residents.

Passey emphasised that these failures raise concerns about the entire profession: “The assessments carried out for Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation (KCTMO) failed to identify critical fire hazards, such as the flammability of the external cladding system, inadequate fire door performance, and the lack of adequate evacuation strategies for vulnerable residents.”

He voiced support for the inquiry’s recommendation for a mandatory accreditation system to ensure fire risk assessors’ competence.

The need for better regulation of fire risk assessors

The inquiry report calls for a standardised, mandatory accreditation system to certify fire risk assessors.

Passey pointed out that despite years of industry efforts to introduce competency standards, the government had previously resisted prescriptive regulations.

However, after the Grenfell disaster, the push for stricter controls has gained momentum, with new legislation such as the Building Safety Act 2022 and updates to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Passey stated: “Even before the devastating Grenfell Tower fire of 2017, the industry had made numerous efforts to engage government officials in designing regulatory requirements that would introduce ‘mandatory minimum standards of competence for training and accrediting fire risk assessors.’”

Developing competency standards for fire risk assessors

The fire safety industry has been actively working to improve fire risk assessor competency.

Organisations like the Fire Sector Federation (FSF) and the British Standards Institute (BSI) are developing a framework for assessing competency, which includes a tiered system for different building risks.

These efforts aim to ensure that fire risk assessors are properly trained and certified, particularly for high-risk buildings.

Passey explained: “The FSF has since, with BSI, been developing the framework into a British Standard as part of the BS 8670 Built Environment – Core criteria for building safety in competence frameworks.”

Concerns over fire risk assessors’ responsibilities and liability

Passey also raised concerns about the increasing responsibilities placed on fire risk assessors.

He questioned how much accountability should rest on individual assessors, especially given the complexity of modern buildings and the need for specialised knowledge in areas like fire engineering.

He noted that some tasks, such as assessing smoke control systems, might require input from a fire engineer rather than an FRA.

“There is an undue expectation that FRAs will be able to analyse the construction of an external wall, be an expert on the installation of fire doors, and even understand the individual needs of vulnerable residents when considering evacuation strategies,” Passey said, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines on the scope of an FRA’s responsibilities.

Fire risk assessors need mandatory accreditation, says FPA’s Howard Passey: Summary

Howard Passey, Senior Technical Consultant for the Fire Protection Association (FPA), has highlighted the crucial role of fire risk assessors (FRAs) in light of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

The inquiry revealed failures in the fire risk assessments conducted at Grenfell, raising questions about the competence of FRAs.

Passey voiced support for the inquiry’s recommendation for mandatory accreditation and standardised competency standards.

He also pointed to ongoing efforts by industry organisations to improve the certification and training of FRAs.

However, Passey raised concerns about the growing responsibilities placed on FRAs, calling for clearer guidelines on their role and liability, particularly for high-risk buildings.

Passey’s full comment can be found here.

FPA Technical Director comments statement on Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations

by Featured NewsSafety

Grenfell Inquiry highlights critical need for change in fire testing methods

Fire Protection Association (FPA) Technical Director George Edwardes has commented on the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.

The inquiry report scrutinised the fire testing practices that failed to prevent the tragedy and has put forth recommendations aimed at reforming these practices.

Edwardes stressed the importance of systemic change, focusing on how the fire safety industry must reform its testing methods, particularly for external cladding systems.

He said: “The Grenfell disaster should not be seen solely as a finger-pointing exercise.

“It exposed a systemic issue with unsafe, highly combustible ACM panels and insulation that had not passed adequate fire tests.”

Challenges in current fire safety and testing systems

The inquiry found that fire safety tests, such as the small-scale Single Burning Item (SBI) test, have limitations when assessing real-world conditions.

According to Edwardes, many current testing methods fail to provide adequate data on fire spread, contributing to unsafe building practices.

The report noted that the Grenfell disaster could have been avoided if the fire industry’s knowledge of dangerous materials, such as ACM panels, had been communicated more effectively to construction professionals.

Edwardes stated: “The knowledge of the dangers of ACM panels with a plastic core existed within the fire industry.

“People had fire tested these materials, witnessed the raging inferno, and reported the risks.”

Future improvements in fire testing for external cladding systems

In response to the inquiry, Edwardes highlighted the FPA’s commitment to improving fire testing standards.

He discussed the introduction of new tests that correlate better with large-scale testing and provide more accurate data on fire spread, allowing for safer building designs.

The FPA has been researching methods like Microscale Combustion Calorimeters (MCCs) to measure the heat released by materials under various conditions.

Edwardes said: “The future should look to tests which focus on material properties and which show good correlation with large scale tests and computational models.”

Impact of new fire testing standards on cladding industry

The introduction of new fire tests will significantly impact the cladding industry, Edwardes warned.

The inquiry’s recommendations will alter how cladding systems are assessed, designed, and regulated, leading to changes in fire risk assessment methods and regulations.

Edwardes drew a comparison to previous improvements in fire safety, such as the rise of combustion-modified foam insulation following the introduction of realistic testing methods in the 1990s.

“The future of cladding system design, fire risk assessment, and regulation will necessarily change as new fire testing standards are introduced,” Edwardes concluded.

FPA’s George Edwardes releases statement on Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations: Summary

George Edwardes, Technical Director of the Fire Protection Association (FPA), has commented on the recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.

He emphasised the need for significant changes in fire testing practices, particularly for external cladding systems, to prevent future tragedies.

Edwardes highlighted the limitations of current small-scale fire tests and called for more accurate testing methods that align with large-scale fire conditions.

The FPA is committed to researching and implementing these changes, with Edwardes warning that new standards will profoundly impact the cladding industry, including design, risk assessments, and regulations.

Read the comment in full here.

FPA Chief Executive responds to Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking News

FPA outlines roadmap for change following Grenfell Tower Inquiry findings

Dr Gavin Dunn, Chief Executive of the Fire Protection Association (FPA), has responded to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, outlining a roadmap for industry change.

The Phase 2 report, led by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, focuses on the systemic failures that contributed to the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in 2017, which claimed 72 lives.

As reported by the FPA, the Inquiry highlights deficiencies in building design, fire safety measures, and regulatory systems.

The report identifies over 60 recommendations aimed at improving fire and building safety across the UK.

Dr Dunn remarked that the report’s findings should prompt a major industry shift to prioritise safety.

To read Dr Dunn’s full comments on the report and its recommendations, visit the FPA’s official website here.

Building products and testing standards criticised in inquiry report

The Inquiry report exposes widespread failures in the regulation of construction products, particularly combustible cladding.

The lack of stringent oversight allowed manufacturers to distribute unsafe materials, and existing testing standards, such as BS 476, failed to adequately assess the fire risks posed by modern materials.

Recommendations from the Inquiry include the establishment of an independent authority to oversee construction product safety, the replacement of outdated testing standards, and the implementation of regular recertification for materials used in high-risk buildings.

Dr Dunn expressed support for these changes, noting that stricter product oversight is crucial to preventing future tragedies.

Failures in building control and fire safety assessments identified

The Phase 2 report also highlights the failings of building control departments, particularly in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC).

These departments did not sufficiently examine the fire hazards posed by combustible cladding and relied too heavily on manufacturer certifications.

The report calls for reforms in building control, including improved competency assessments and increased inspection frequency.

Fire engineers and risk assessors were found to have provided inadequate assessments, failing to address the specific risks posed by Grenfell Tower’s cladding system.

The Inquiry recommends mandatory accreditation for fire engineers and assessors, along with enhanced training to improve competency across the sector.

Redefining high-risk buildings in wake of Grenfell tragedy

A key theme in the report is the need to redefine “high-risk buildings” in the UK’s regulatory framework.

The current definition, which is based primarily on building height, does not sufficiently account for other risk factors such as vulnerable occupants or the presence of fire safety features.

Sir Martin Moore-Bick’s recommendations suggest a more nuanced, risk-based approach to building classification and fire safety protocols.

Dr Dunn acknowledged the challenges of expanding the definition but emphasised the importance of a tailored approach to fire safety.

He pointed out that changing the definition could have far-reaching implications for the industry, requiring new strategies and resources to meet safety standards for a broader range of buildings.

Fire Protection Association addresses Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations: summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has responded to the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, which outlines the systemic failures that led to the 2017 fire that claimed 72 lives.

The report recommends significant reforms in the fire safety and construction sectors, including the establishment of an independent authority for construction product safety, the overhaul of testing standards, and the redefinition of “high-risk buildings.”

To read Dr Gavin Dunn’s full comments on the report and its recommendations, visit the FPA’s official website here.

Fire Protection Association supports Grenfell Inquiry’s phase 2 recommendations for fire safety reform

by Associations and OrganisationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s phase 2 report released

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has commented on recently published Phase 2 report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The report, authored by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, examines the systemic failures leading up to the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower on 14 June 2017, which resulted in the deaths of 72 residents.

The report highlights various shortcomings in the construction and fire safety sectors.

The inquiry did not attribute the disaster to a single cause, but rather identified widespread flaws in the system that allowed unsafe housing to be constructed and maintained.

Key recommendations focus on legislation and regulation

The report calls for changes in legislation and regulation.

Sir Martin recommends that the government consolidate responsibilities for fire safety and construction under a single regulator.

He suggests that statutory guidance, such as Approved Document B, be revised and updated.

Sir Martin also advises that the government should appoint a Chief Construction Adviser and emphasised the importance of including fresh perspectives from both academia and industry in the review process.

Professional accountability and fire safety competence

The inquiry uncovered misunderstandings and poor decisions made during the Grenfell Tower refurbishment.

Recommendations focus on improving the quality of fire safety work and enhancing accountability in higher-risk buildings.

It is suggested that fire safety strategies be made mandatory for high-risk buildings, and that the profession of fire engineer be legally recognised and regulated by an independent body.

Furthermore, accountability for fire safety must extend to senior managers involved in the design and construction process.

Addressing flaws in product testing and certification

One of the key findings of the inquiry was the role that cladding played in the spread of the fire.

Issues surrounding product testing and certification were highlighted, with some individuals accused of manipulating test data.

To address these flaws, the report recommends the development of new testing methods and greater transparency in product certification.

A construction regulator would oversee product conformity, and manufacturers would be required to disclose all relevant test data.

FPA calls for action on Grenfell recommendations

The FPA fully supports the recommendations outlined in the Grenfell Inquiry’s Phase 2 report.

According to FPA Chief Executive Dr Gavin Dunn: “It is imperative that everyone involved… reflect on what has happened… but most crucially, what needs to now be done differently.”

The FPA will monitor government responses and continue to offer guidance to ensure these changes are effectively implemented.

Over the coming weeks, expert analysis from the FPA will focus on the implications of the report for the fire safety sector.

Fire Protection Association supports Grenfell Inquiry’s phase 2 recommendations for fire safety reform: Summary

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report highlights significant systemic failures in fire safety and construction.

Key recommendations focus on unifying fire safety regulation, updating statutory guidance, and improving accountability among professionals.

The report also addresses the shortcomings in product testing and certification.

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) supports the recommendations, emphasising the need for reflection and change to prevent a similar tragedy.

The report outlines the importance of recognising fire engineers as a regulated profession and improving the quality of fire risk assessments.

The FPA has pledged to support the government and stakeholders in implementing these changes.

Over the coming weeks, the FPA will provide expert analysis and guidance on the report’s findings and their impact on the fire safety sector.

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.

Fire Protection Association manifesto calls for new UK government to prioritise fire safety

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsSafety

FPA releases six key policy statements for fire safety

As reported by the Fire Protection Association (FPA), the organisation has urged the new UK government to place fire life safety and property protection at the forefront of its built environment strategy.

The FPA has outlined six key policy statements aimed at reducing risks and improving fire safety in UK buildings.

Dr Gavin Dunn, Managing Director of the FPA, stated: “The FPA is calling for change to fire safety and property protection in buildings, and to that end we are proud to publish our manifesto of six policy areas we think the new government should consider.”

The policies proposed include installing sprinkler systems in new and refurbished schools and care homes, ensuring the competency of fire risk assessors, continuing to implement the Building Safety Act, supporting the Morrell/Day Report on construction product safety, aiding the transition to net zero, and using data-driven measures for planning system reforms.

Key policy areas for fire safety reform

The first policy calls for the installation of sprinkler systems in all new and majorly refurbished schools and care homes.

This measure aims to provide better protection for vulnerable populations in these facilities.

The second policy focuses on the competency of fire risk assessors.

It suggests that all assessors should be qualified and certified under a UKAS-accredited scheme and should be supported with ongoing professional development to maintain their competence.

The third policy involves the continued implementation of the Building Safety Act 2022 and support for the Building Safety Regulator.

The FPA stresses the importance of supporting the supplementary legislation and the key role of the regulator.

Recommendations for construction product safety and net zero transition

The fourth policy urges the government to implement the Morrell/Day Report’s recommendations on construction product safety.

This report highlights key aspects of product safety that need urgent attention.

The fifth policy addresses the transition to net zero.

The FPA recommends developing policies and guidance to support new energy technologies and low carbon construction techniques that do not compromise fire safety and property resilience.

The sixth policy supports planning system reforms through the use of data-driven fire protection measures.

This approach targets fire protection efforts effectively, particularly in high-risk buildings and those distant from fire and rescue services.

Collaboration and readiness to implement

The FPA has expressed its readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders to advance these policies.

The organisation believes that these initiatives do not require new legislation, as existing powers can drive the necessary changes.

Prioritising fire safety, the FPA argues, will protect lives, enhance the economic value of the built environment, and contribute to the overall wellbeing and prosperity of society.

‘We urge the new administration to urgently address fire safety challenges’ says FPA Managing Director Gavin Dunn

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsSafety

FPA comments on Labour party taking majority in UK general election

On 4 July 2024, the Labour Party secured a majority in the UK general election, winning 412 seats.

Sir Keir Starmer is now the new prime minister, marking a new era of government.

As reported by The Fire Protection Association, Gavin Dunn, Managing Director, has congratulated Starmer and the Labour Party on their victory.

Dunn stated: “The Fire Protection Association wishes to congratulate Keir Starmer and the Labour Party on their win in the UK general election.

“We wish them well in forming the next government.”

New cabinet appointments and implications for fire safety

Keir Starmer has announced his new Cabinet, which includes Angela Rayner as Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities.

Her role will be pivotal in bridging the gap between the government and the fire safety industry.

This comes as the final Grenfell Tower Inquiry report is set to be published in September, seven years after the tragedy.

Dunn highlighted the urgency of addressing fire safety challenges: “We hope and stand ready to support the new government.

“We urge the new administration to urgently address the numerous challenges needed to improve fire safety and property protection within UK buildings.”

FPA’s call for regulatory changes and support for the new government

The FPA has emphasized the need for changes in the regulation of fire safety professionals and the assessment of construction products to ensure safety and resilience.

Dunn remarked: “We believe now is the time to resolve many issues surrounding the regulation of fire safety professionals, ensuring they demonstrate competency effectively, and assessing the suitability of construction products used in buildings.”

The FPA has positioned itself as a key player in supporting the government’s efforts to advance fire safety regulations.

Dunn added: “As the FPA, we stand ready to support this change. We will continue to provide research insights, disseminate knowledge, and offer a range of services to help the market do the right thing.”

FPA’s upcoming policy manifesto

The FPA is in the process of finalising its policy manifesto, which will be released in the coming weeks.

This manifesto will outline the FPA’s commitment to collaboration with both government and industry stakeholders to safeguard people and property from fire-related risks.

Dunn concluded by extending congratulations on Labour’s election success and encouraged the new ministers to advance the fire safety agenda swiftly: “On behalf of my colleagues here at the FPA, and our many members and partners, we extend our congratulations on Labour’s election success.

“We look forward to seeing who will assume key ministerial roles in the areas of fire and building safety.”

Online fire extinguisher technicians refresher course launched by FPA

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire SuppressionTraining

Online fire extinguisher technicians refresher course available

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has introduced an online version of its Fire Extinguisher Technicians Refresher course, complementing its existing in-person classroom option.

As reported by the FPA, this move aligns with the Part 3 legal requirements of BS 5306, which mandates that refresher training be conducted every three years.

This course is intended to help professionals maintain their competence after completing the FPA’s Portable Fire Extinguisher Recharging Maintenance course.

Benefits of the new online course

The new online offering aims to ensure that professionals can access this essential training regardless of their location.

The online course is designed to offer the same technical level and quality as the in-person course, featuring a tutor-led virtual classroom with breakout room work, video streaming, and real-time messaging.

Russell Pratt, Senior Fire Safety Trainer at the FPA, stated: “The FPA recognises the importance of accessible learning.

“Changing the delivery method of this course enables technicians nationwide to adhere to the requirement of refresher training with BS5306-3 without having the level of technical delivery compromised.”

Target audience and learning outcomes

The course is targeted at various professionals, including fire extinguisher maintenance practitioners, fire door inspectors, fire safety consultants, fire safety technicians, apprentice fire alarm engineers, sellers and estimators, designers, premises managers, maintenance staff, and facility managers.

Learning outcomes of the course include:

  • Awareness and understanding of the British standards
  • Awareness of new requirements
  • Knowledge of current and forthcoming industry issues, such as the environmental impact of extinguishants and obligations for their responsible disposal
  • Awareness of new extinguishers to offer best practice advice and informed cost-effective choices
  • Knowledge of provision and siting for different extinguishers, considering travel distances
  • Understanding of maintenance intervals and current service principles, including condition checks, weight tolerances, and disposal processes

Member benefits

The one-day refresher course is available to FPA members with a 10% discount.