NEBOSH survey shows high recommendation for process safety qualification

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

Positive feedback for NEBOSH HSE process safety management certificate

A recent survey by NEBOSH found that 97% of learners would recommend the NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management.

This qualification, developed in collaboration with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), aims to enhance understanding and mitigate health and safety risks in the process industries.

As reported by NEBOSH, the qualification offers a broad understanding of the principles and practices essential for controlling process safety hazards.

Originally launched in 2018, the certificate has been updated for 2024.

Feedback from existing holders indicates high satisfaction, with nine in ten rating it as excellent or good.

Testimonials highlight career impact

Nicola Curtis, Head of Health and Safety at Biffa, shared her experience with the qualification: “When I moved into waste management, process safety became a bigger part of my role, as I was leading a health and safety team supporting the build and management of Energy for Waste (EfW) plants.”

Curtis added: “The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management definitely enhanced my career.

“I started to look at safety at my facilities differently and made it my mission to increase everyone else’s knowledge of process safety.

“It is integral to how my part of Biffa works, so this qualification had a huge impact for me and our operations – it was a win-win for all of us!”

Collaboration between NEBOSH and HSE

Chris Austin, Head of Training and Events at the Health and Safety Executive, commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to collaborate with NEBOSH on the evolution of the Process Safety Management certificate.

“We hope that by combining our strengths, the qualification will continue to significantly help improve understanding and further reduce health and safety risks in the process industries.”

The qualification, available through NEBOSH’s global network of Learning Partners, continues to be a critical resource for professionals seeking to enhance their process safety management skills.

IFSJ comment

The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management has received strong endorsements from learners and industry professionals alike.

With 97% of learners recommending the qualification and nine in ten rating it highly, its impact on improving process safety is evident.

The collaboration between NEBOSH and the Health and Safety Executive ensures the course content is both relevant and robust, addressing the latest industry standards and practices.

Nicola Curtis’s testimony underscores the practical benefits of the qualification in real-world settings, particularly in complex environments like waste management.

Her experience highlights how the certification can elevate safety standards and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Chris Austin’s remarks further affirm the importance of the partnership in developing a qualification that meets the needs of the industry.

The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Process Safety Management serves as a valuable tool for professionals aiming to enhance their knowledge and contribute to safer operational practices.

Malaysian fire and rescue department enhances pilot training with UAE simulation exercises

by Featured NewsTraining

Overview of the training initiative

The Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has announced a significant initiative to enhance the skills and safety of its pilots through simulated helicopter emergency training in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad, JBPM’s Director-General, confirmed the department’s commitment to improving operational safety by allocating RM800,000 for the training of all 17 pilots.

The simulation training aims to significantly reduce the risk of air accidents.

To date, four JBPM pilots have undergone this training, with completion for the remaining team expected by the year’s end.

Impact of global events on pilot training schedules

The initiative, originally planned for earlier execution, faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and was further impacted by geopolitical tensions arising from the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

These events prevented access to previously used simulation facilities in Ukraine.

However, JBPM adapted by identifying and utilising similar facilities developed recently in the UAE.

“Starting last year, we found that similar facilities were developed in the UAE, and we began sending JBPM teams there, with four pilots sent in November last year,” said Mohammad during the JBPM honorary rank awards ceremony in Kuantan.

Strategic importance of the training program

The training program is part of JBPM’s broader strategy to maintain high safety standards and preparedness among its personnel.

By investing in sophisticated simulation training, the department ensures that its pilots are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.

This initiative is critical for maintaining the operational readiness and safety of JBPM’s aviation units, particularly in response to emergencies where precision and skill are crucial.

IFSJ comment

The decision by JBPM to invest in advanced simulated training for its pilots in the UAE underscores the department’s proactive approach to safety and skill enhancement.

By adapting to global challenges and seeking out international training solutions, JBPM demonstrates a commitment to excellence and safety in its operations.

This training prepares pilots for a wide range of emergency scenarios and contributes to the overall resilience and capability of the department.

FIA opens new practical training facility at Northwich

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsTraining

FIA Northwich launches new practical training area for fire safety professionals

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has unveiled a new practical training area at its Northwich location, aiming to enhance hands-on training for fire safety management.

This facility marks a significant development in fire safety training, integrating practical experience into FIA’s comprehensive educational offerings.

Members of the FIA are now invited to contribute by supplying and installing essential training equipment.

About the practical training area

Situated at FIA Northwich, this new training environment is positioned to bridge the gap between digital learning and practical application.

The facility will focus on delivering training that meets the real-world demands of fire safety, equipped with essential tools like dry riser equipment, hose reels, and fire detection and alarm systems.

This initiative allows FIA members to showcase their products and contributes significantly to raising the standards of fire safety training.

Equipment and collaboration opportunities

The practical training area requires specific equipment to simulate real firefighting scenarios, making it a vital component of the training process.

The FIA is seeking expressions of interest from its members to supply and install equipment such as hose reels, which are essential for practicing firefighting techniques, and dry riser equipment, crucial for training in various fire response scenarios.

IFSJ Comment

The FIA’s establishment of a new practical training area at its Northwich facility is a strategic step towards enhancing the practical skills of fire safety professionals.

By combining digital courses with real-world applications, the initiative ensures a more rounded educational experience.

Moreover, by involving its members in the development of the training facility, the FIA not only enhances its educational offerings but also fosters a collaborative environment within the industry.

This development is indicative of FIA’s commitment to adapting to evolving industry needs and providing comprehensive training to meet the challenges of modern fire safety management.

Transforming tactical firefighter training with BeaverFit

by Breaking NewsTraining

Fred Walters, Head of Sales at BeaverFit, discusses revolutionary fire and rescue training techniques

BeaverFit is renowned for its innovative approach to tactical training and operational equipment.

Rooted in steel fabrication and manufacturing, BeaverFit has evolved from its UK origins in 1947 with R.S. Beaver LTD to a global leader in fitness and training solutions​​.

Founded on the principles of robust, mission-essential equipment, BeaverFit’s journey began with Tom Beaver’s first outdoor training rig, inspiring a line of products that would revolutionise military and tactical training​​.

The company’s pivotal moment came when it combined its expertise in outdoor training rigs with the practicality of container gyms, catering to the dynamic needs of the British Army and, later, expanding to the US military​​ and fire departments.

IFSJ speaks to Fred Walters to discuss BeaverFit’s specialised role in fire and rescue training, delving into how their unique approach and bespoke facilities are enhancing the capabilities of firefighting professionals worldwide.

Could you discuss the design process for the carbonaceous training facility?

The design process for the carbonaceous training facility began with an existing conceptual design provided by the end user.

Our in-house design team then took over. Our role was to transform this conceptual design into a tangible, buildable project.

This transformation involved two main phases: firstly, working closely with the end user to refine the conceptual design, and secondly, developing a manufacturing design.

Throughout this process, we maintained continuous engagement with the end user at every stage, ensuring their satisfaction and addressing any concerns.

This collaborative approach was crucial because, while the end user had thoroughly considered the conceptual design, there were practical aspects of the build they might not have fully envisioned.

Our provision of a more detailed 3D format allowed the end user to visualise the project better, enabling them to make tweaks and changes as needed.

This iterative process ensured that the final design not only met but exceeded the end user’s expectations, addressing all practical and operational challenges effectively.

What innovative features distinguish BeaverFit’s facility from other training environments?

One of the most significant innovations in our facility is its robustness, especially considering the extreme conditions it must withstand.

For example, the containers in the facility can endure temperatures exceeding 900 degrees.

This is critical for accommodating the extreme training regimes that firefighters undergo.

To achieve this, we designed the panels protecting the containers to be both sacrificial and modular, allowing for easy dismounting and recladding.

In addition to the durability aspect, we’ve integrated various structural features like multiple stairwells and balconies.

These elements add complexity and realism to the training environment, challenging the firefighters both mentally and physically.

The inclusion of unique piping systems also adds to the training experience.

Overall, our focus has been on making the facility as robust and long-lasting as possible.

This durability is a key differentiator, as other carbonaceous facilities tend to have shorter lifespans due to substandard construction.

Our approach ensures that our facility not only provides a realistic and challenging training environment but also remains functional and effective over a longer period, enhancing the overall training experience for firefighters.

How did the collaboration between BeaverFit and Suffolk Fire and Rescue come about?

Our collaboration with Suffolk Fire and Rescue was a result of our previous experience in constructing carbonaceous facilities for other clients.

A key aspect of our approach at BeaverFit is our focus on the end users.

We dedicate significant time to understanding their specific training objectives and desired outcomes.

In terms of design challenges, our flexibility is a major strength.

We recognise that sometimes the final outcome becomes clear only after exploring various possibilities.

This open-minded approach allows us to adapt our designs to best meet the end users’ needs.

Moreover, since we manufacture in-house, we involve the end users at different stages of the manufacturing process.

They are invited to inspect our work and ensure that it aligns with their requirements and is fit for purpose.

This isn’t just a contract fulfilment; it’s a collaborative process.

We maintain constant touchpoints with the end user throughout the build, ensuring a partnership that leads to a facility that truly meets their needs and enhances their training capabilities.

Are BeaverFit’s installations specifically tailored to the needs of each service?

Our installations are predominantly bespoke. While having a standardised product would be ideal, our strength lies in creating custom solutions.

Understanding the process of building a bespoke facility swiftly and efficiently is a significant challenge, but it’s one we excel in.

This expertise is developed through experience, including the valuable insights gained from prior experiences.

Our focus on bespoke designs ensures that we can meet the specific and varied needs of each service, delivering solutions that are as unique as the requirements they address.

How does your facility maintain firefighter safety during rigorous training?

The facility is meticulously designed to meet and exceed the training requirements of the end users, ensuring the safety of firefighters during intense training scenarios.

Through the process, we’ve discovered that the facility allows for a broader range of activities than initially anticipated.

Our goal was to fulfil the initial training objectives set out by the end users, and we believe we have successfully achieved this.

We hope the end users agree that the facility not only meets their initial expectations but also provides additional training opportunities, all while maintaining a high standard of safety for these hazardous training activities.

What opportunities does your facility offer to fire departments globally?

Our facility incorporates certain standardised features that are a hallmark of all our carbonaceous facilities, including robust manufacturing.

The UK fire service, known for its excellence in training, serves as a model for this approach.

This has led to significant international interest, with delegations, especially from the Middle East, coming to train at our facilities. This fosters cross-collaboration in fire service training.

Our reach is global, with facilities provided across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.

One of the key assurances we offer is the consistency in quality and manufacturing standards.

A facility built in the UK will be mirrored in its quality and functionality anywhere else in the world.

This standardisation and quality assurance mean that fire departments and agencies worldwide can benefit from advanced training opportunities, potentially setting a new benchmark for fire training facilities globally.

Can you describe the extent of BeaverFit’s work with the US fire services currently?

We have staff and offices in the US, underlining our commitment to the US market.

Our work in the US primarily involves building facilities, particularly focused on breaching rather than carbonaceous facilities.

Additionally, we supply a considerable amount of physical training equipment to the fire services.

We understand that while tactical training is crucial for firefighters, physical fitness is equally important.

Our role in the US extends beyond the fire services. We are the largest provider of human performance equipment to the US armed forces, and we bring this expertise to the fire services as well.

Our facilities are designed to encourage the use of body weight in training, which helps reduce the risk of injuries.

This focus on strength training is essential, as it is a critical component of a firefighter’s overall fitness and capability.

This holistic approach to training—encompassing both tactical skills and physical fitness—is a key part of our service offering in the US.

What are BeaverFit’s future plans for tactical training in fire and rescue?

A major focus for us this year is on breaching. We are collaborating with top suppliers of equipment to enhance our offerings.

At BeaverFit, we are not just an in-house manufacturer; we also assemble components from high-quality suppliers.

This includes specialised items like breaching doors and other types of training equipment.

Our goal is to integrate the best products from the finest manufacturers into our training facilities.

We are dedicated to creating facilities that offer multiple training benefits, not just single-dimensional training.

Our aim is always to deliver maximum value to our end users.

For instance, a carbonaceous facility might also include diverse training modules like breaching, roping activities, or casualty evacuation.

Our strategy is to amalgamate as many training capabilities as possible into a single, comprehensive facility, enhancing the training experience and effectiveness for fire and rescue personnel.

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

Exploring the impact of VR on firefighter training with FLAIM’s innovative platform

by Featured NewsTraining

The shift towards virtual reality in firefighter training

The world of firefighter training is witnessing a transformative shift with the introduction of virtual reality (VR) platforms that offer an immersive learning experience.

Traditional training methods, though effective, often fall short in replicating the diverse and complex scenarios that firefighters face.

FLAIM Trainer, a revolutionary VR training platform, steps in to bridge this gap by providing realistic and controlled training environments.

This innovation not only enhances safety but also ensures firefighters are well-prepared for real-world challenges.

In a series of recent blog posts, FLAIM’s the advantages of VR training: “Our VR solution enhances traditional training methods by providing an immersive, safe, and controlled environment where firefighters can learn and refine their skills without the risks associated with live fire training.”

Enhancing safety and environmental benefits

VR training offers significant safety benefits by eliminating the physical risks inherent in traditional methods such as burns and smoke inhalation.

Furthermore, it aligns with environmental sustainability goals by reducing the need for live fire exercises, thus minimising the release of pollutants.

The ability to simulate various fire scenarios, including chemical spills and electrical fires, ensures that firefighters can prepare for such incidents safely and effectively.

FLAIM further emphasised the environmental impact: “The reduction in live fire exercises not only enhances safety but also significantly decreases the environmental footprint of our training processes.”

Cost-effectiveness and global reach

The introduction of VR training solutions like FLAIM Trainer also addresses cost and accessibility challenges faced by firefighting departments worldwide.

Traditional live fire training is resource-intensive, requiring specific facilities and equipment.

VR technology, on the other hand, allows for flexible and on-demand training that can be conducted anywhere, making it a cost-effective solution.

“By enabling training anytime, anywhere, we are making high-quality firefighter training accessible globally, particularly to remote or under-resourced teams,” FLAIM added.

IFSJ Comment

The integration of VR technology into firefighter training by FLAIM represents a significant advancement in preparing firefighters more effectively and safely.

With its numerous benefits ranging from safety to environmental sustainability, VR training is poised to revolutionise how firefighters are prepared for the complexities of their roles.

The proactive adoption of such technologies is crucial for enhancing the capabilities and safety of firefighters everywhere.

Kenyon Emergency Services launches new training academy for crisis management

by Featured NewsTraining

Kenyon International Emergency Services, a leading provider of disaster response services and part of the global aviation services group Air Partner, has unveiled its new training academy initiative set to commence in 2024.

Delivering comprehensive crisis training

The Kenyon Academy programme aims to provide industry-leading crisis training to delegates from various companies around the globe.

This initiative is designed to empower participants to respond and operate professionally and effectively in emergency or crisis situations.

Kenyon’s extensive experience in managing complex international crises, such as search and rescue operations and providing support after Hurricane Katrina and the Grenfell Tower fire, underpins its capacity to offer specialised training.

Expanding course offerings

The academy will initially launch with four courses: Crisis Leadership, Airline Station Manager, Emergency Response Plan Writing, and Special Assistance Team Management.

Kenyon plans to extend its course offerings to include more from its comprehensive training suite, covering topics like Humanitarian/Family Assistance, Crisis Communications, and Aviation Crisis Management.

These courses will be available both virtually and in-person, depending on the course type, at Kenyon’s locations in Bracknell, UK, and Houston, USA.

The academy will be led by Kenyon’s team of skilled professionals, who are experts in the field of emergency response.

Enhancing accessibility and collaboration

Jonathan Astill, Air Partner Services Division Executive Vice President and Managing Director, emphasised Kenyon’s commitment to high-quality training: “Kenyon International Emergency Services is committed to delivering comprehensive, industry-leading training for emergency response and crisis management.

“With the launch of the 2024 Kenyon Academy programme, we’re excited to make our training more accessible and enable more companies equip themselves with the crucial skills and competencies required to confidently handle any situation.”

The academy introduces a new model allowing individuals to enrol on a ‘per seat basis’, in addition to the in-house training Kenyon already provides.

This model is designed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals from different companies.

Kenyon also launched a new website, making it easier for customers to access its leading consultancy services and training programmes.

IFSJ Comment

By leveraging its century-long expertise in disaster response, Kenyon is set to enrich the professional skillset of individuals across various industries, enhancing their ability to manage emergencies and crises effectively.

This initiative demonstrates Kenyon’s leadership in disaster response services, underscoring the importance of preparedness and professional development in ensuring effective emergency response.

The academy’s approach to combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, through both virtual and in-person training, reflects an innovative and accessible model for professional education in crisis management.

Fire safety training initiative ‘Project Kestrel’ launched by London Fire Brigade for security and facilities staff

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

Introduction to Project Kestrel

London Fire Brigade has developed an innovative online training package, named Project Kestrel, aimed at enhancing the fire safety knowledge of security and facilities staff.

This initiative, created in collaboration with the City of London Crime Prevention Association and the Corporation of London, emerged from a multi-agency exercise highlighting the potential to improve the capabilities of security professionals.

Project Kestrel seeks to provide additional confidence to building owners and managers by ensuring their personnel are well-trained in fire safety, security awareness, and emergency response measures.

The significance of Project Kestrel for security officers

With over 115,000 licensed security officers in the London area, Project Kestrel aims to empower those often first on the scene at emergencies with the skills to respond effectively to fire alarms and incidents.

Trained officers will be better prepared to assist in emergencies, ensuring firefighters receive critical information upon their arrival.

James Chapman, London Fire Brigade’s Borough Commander for The City, expressed the project’s value: “This is a great project, giving security officers protecting some of the UK’s most complex and impressive buildings the opportunity to enhance their skill set to help firefighters in the event of an emergency at their building.”

Partnerships and participant feedback

The development and implementation of Project Kestrel highlight the strength of public-private partnerships in enhancing community safety.

Don Randall MBE, Chairman of the City of London Crime Prevention Association, praised the programme: “The current training a security officer receives only touches on the basics of fire awareness which makes Project Kestrel the ideal training programme for frontline security staff to enhance their knowledge.”

Rajeev Pradhan, Director of Operations at Bidvest Noonan, shared positive feedback from participants, noting the comprehensive nature of the training and its flexibility in pacing, which allows for a thorough understanding of fire safety principles.

Participants of Project Kestrel are required to complete six training modules, focusing on safety and security aspects related to fire in the workplace.

The course, which awards 2 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, takes approximately three hours to complete.

An enrolment fee of £25 includes a contribution to the London Fire Brigade’s Fire Cadets programme, among other fundraising initiatives, and supports the Cross-Sector Safety and Security Communications charity.

IFSJ comment

The launch of Project Kestrel by London Fire Brigade, in collaboration with the City of London Crime Prevention Association and the Corporation of London, marks a proactive step towards bolstering fire safety and security skills among security and facilities personnel.

This initiative enhances the preparedness of security staff in the event of a, strengthening the collaborative efforts between public and private sectors to safeguard communities.

By offering comprehensive training that covers all essential aspects of fire safety, Project Kestrel ensures that security officers are not only well-informed but also capable of acting decisively during emergencies.

The programme’s focus on continuous professional development and its support for charitable causes further underscore its commitment to both individual growth and community welfare.

FSi Promat introduces online training for enhanced understanding of passive fire protection

by Featured NewsPassiveTraining

FSi Promat has launched an innovative online training programme aimed at enhancing competence and understanding in the field of passive fire protection.

This initiative seeks to provide customers with exclusive access to the company’s experts in a bid to promote a comprehensive grasp of the subject.

The scheme, designed with an informal approach to facilitate easy access to current information, invites customers to participate in bi-weekly sessions.

These sessions are conducted by members of the FSi Promat technical team every other Friday, focusing on product awareness, updates to legislation, and practical applications to meet regulatory requirements.

Online training: Interactive sessions to deepen product knowledge

The training covers various aspects, including product specification, applications, the principles of passive fire protection, and the critical importance of testing and certification.

It offers a platform for customers to seek tailored information on the use of passive fire protection or discuss the application and installation of fire-stopping products.

Pre-registration is required for the two-hour online sessions, which are complemented by occasional in-person training at the company’s Measham headquarters.

The in-person sessions combine theoretical training on product awareness and application with practical installation exercises.

Commitment to accessible and comprehensive support

Emma Taylor, Marketing Manager at FSi Promat, emphasised the value of accessible product information, especially considering the Golden Thread requirements: “Having easy access to product information is essential, especially with the Golden Thread requirements.

“While all our products are backed by third-party certification and technical data sheets, we recognise that expert insights and clear signposting on a human level can really enhance the understanding of a product and its application.”

Taylor further highlighted the goal of the training initiative: “By providing regular access to the expertise that exists in our technical team, we want to make it as easy as possible for our customers to get all the information and advice that they need to ensure a compliant installation and enable them to carry out their own due diligence checks on site.”

In addition to the product awareness training for installers and sub-contractors, FSi Promat also offers RIBA accredited CPDs for architects and specifiers, aiming to broaden awareness about passive fire protection, relevant legislation, and available products and systems.

For more details on the training courses and registration information, interested parties are encouraged to contact sales.fsi.uk@etexgroup.com.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of an online training scheme by FSi Promat marks a signficant development in the field of passive fire protection.

This initiative aligns with the industry’s need for continuous learning and adaptation to evolving standards.

By facilitating direct interaction with experts and providing comprehensive resources, FSi Promat is setting a precedent in empowering professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective passive fire protection implementation.

This approach enhances the overall safety and compliance of fire protection systems, contributing significantly to the industry’s efforts to safeguard lives and properties.

A new era for fire training with LION

by Breaking NewsIFSJ ExclusivesTraining

Arnaud Lefebvre, Sales Director at LION, discusses how their NFTT solution transforms the economics and safety  of firefighter training

In the ever-evolving landscape of fire safety training, LION’s latest endeavour—a comprehensive cost calculation tool— is tailored to assist training centres in evaluating the total cost of ownership of their facilities.

LION’s selling concept is designed to enhance the decision-making process for training centres, enabling them to determine the most efficient mix of wood, gas, and digital simulations.

Arnaud Lefebvre, the Sales and Marketing Director for LION, played a key role in the development of this innovative tool.

Through customer interaction, LION sought to improve training methods and explore new technologies for fire responder readiness.

This led to the conceptualisation of the Total Cost of Ownership tool.

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey sat down with Lefebvre to delve into the intricacies of this new calculation tool, LION’s New Fire Technology Training (NFTT), and discuss the future of firefighter training.

How does the Total Cost of Ownership tool support LION’s mission and enhance fire safety training?

Training is key for preparedness and safety in incidents.

Regular, realistic practice is essential.

Most firefighters acknowledge the benefits of combining wood, gas, and digital technologies for optimal training, yet this is perceived as costly.

This tool demonstrates that integrating these technologies, despite the initial investment, actually reduces the Total Cost of Ownership compared to solely wood-based training, which is typically considered the most economical option.

How does the cost calculation tool enhance LION’s NFTT sales strategy?

LION’s NFTT concept initially focused on the benefits for trainees and trainers.

However, it’s increasingly recognised that a mix of technologies – wood-based, gas-based, and digital – is crucial for superior and safer training experiences.

Each technology offers distinct advantages: wood-based training is invaluable for understanding smoke behaviour and fire dynamics, gas-based setups are excellent for simulating intense, hot tactical scenarios, and digital technology is unparalleled in providing high-frequency, repetitive training exercises.

Digital methods also allow for training in highly realistic settings, including actual building environments, which is critical for practical skills development.

One common misconception is the presumed high cost of integrating such diverse training methodologies.

This new tool challenges that perception by allowing users to experiment with different training configurations.

It provides a comprehensive assessment of the total cost of ownership, encompassing initial purchase costs, ongoing operational expenses, maintenance and service fees, and even end-of-life disposal costs.

Moreover, it offers a unique feature: the ability to evaluate the environmental impacts of these varied training technologies.

This holistic approach underscores the cost-effectiveness of such an integrated training system but also highlights its sustainability, aligning with modern environmental consciousness and the need for eco-friendly training solutions.

In this way, the tool not only complements LION’s NFTT selling concept but significantly extends its scope, offering a more nuanced, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible approach to firefighter training.

How does the tool calculate the total cost of ownership for training centres?

The tool, only available to LION and its carefully selected partners, is pre-set with various parameters, allows the LION sales team to make adjustments to mirror the requirements of each first responder brigade.

First, we set the desired training mix, like a combination of wood containers and a digital system.

Then, input the frequency of training – the number of sessions per day, and days per year.

Next, specify the number of simulators used in regular sessions.

Based on this data, the tool calculates average consumption of wood, gas, water, and electricity, with an option for users to adjust utility costs.

It then presents the total cost of ownership, detailing investment costs, annual utility expenses, estimated service costs, PPE cleaning costs, waste disposal, salaries for trainers and technicians, and end-of-life costs.

Additionally, the tool calculates environmental impact, estimating emissions of particles, CO2, Carbon Monoxide, NOx, Soot, and other pollutants like Polycyclic Hydrocarbons (PAH).

The customer receives a detailed report from LION, allowing them to review the calculations and make budget decisions accordingly.

How does this assist training centres in choosing the best combination of wood, gas, and digital simulations for their needs?

This tool facilitates the creation of diverse training scenarios.

For instance, if a centre wants to explore the impact of incorporating a smoke treatment system into their wood containers, the tool can simulate this addition.

It provides detailed information about the extra costs involved, including investment, operation, and service expenses, and also assesses the environmental benefits, such as reduced particle emissions.

The tool allows training centres to experiment with various scenarios, aiding in decisions about whether to integrate new simulators with different technologies, both from economic and environmental perspectives.

What insights did you gain from developing the cost-evaluation tool?

Our research using this tool has led to a surprising conclusion: a mixed-method approach to training is more economical in the long run.

Incorporating a combination of training technologies, rather than relying solely on traditional methods like wood burning, proves to be more cost-effective.

This finding counters a common assumption.

Many believe that adopting new technologies is financially daunting due to their initial costs.

However, our tool’s analysis reveals that the less obvious expenses associated with traditional methods, such as wood burning, accumulate to a greater extent over time than the costs of investing in a diverse range of technologies.

How does this tool cater to the diverse safety, environmental, and realism needs of various training centres?

The tool offers a selection of different training technologies for consideration:

Wood-Based Burns (Carbonaceous)

These provide high realism but are the least environmentally friendly and carry the highest risk in training scenarios.

Gas Simulators

They offer a consistently hot environment and high repeatability with greater safety, though they have a slightly lower realism factor compared to wood.

Digital Simulators

Highly flexible and portable, these simulators offer the safest and most environmentally friendly option.

They can be used in real buildings, but they do not generate heat.

Are there any plans to integrate this tool with additional LION products or services for a broader training solution?

The cost evaluation tool is a key component of LION’s comprehensive NFTT concept.

The aim here is to illustrate how various training technologies contribute to more efficient training.

NFTT is a holistic concept, addressing all critical aspects for fire responders, from training to safety, environmental impact, and economic considerations.

Initially, we focused primarily on fire responders, but the NFTT concept is equally applicable to other sectors requiring specialised training, such as hospitals, petrochemical and chemical industries, naval operations, etc.

For these sectors, a thorough understanding of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is essential.

Can you talk more about the NFTT and how it compares to traditional training methods?

NFTT introduces a variety of training technologies, contrasting traditional methods like wood burning and gas use with evolving digital and virtual reality options.

The misconception that these newer technologies will entirely replace traditional methods isn’t reflected in current trends.

Each technology, whether traditional or modern, offers unique advantages and limitations.

Our concept promotes diverse training methods, with each contributing distinct benefits to enhance training quality.

Some traditional wood-based practices can now be effectively supplanted by digital or gas technologies.

This transition is beneficial not only for the training process but also financially.

While wood might appear cost-effective, it incurs additional expenses in maintenance, cleaning, safety measures, and time for setup and restarts.

Burning solid materials like wood in training poses inherent risks due to heat, potential explosions, burns from real smoke, and particularly the airborne particles.

These factors present health hazards, especially to trainers who face prolonged exposure.

What are the health advantages of the New Fire Technology Training (NFTT)?

Traditional firefighter training methods, involving intense scenarios in training containers, pose significant health risks such as heat exposure leading to conditions like heat stroke.

The stress of mastering multiple skills, like using breathing apparatus and understanding fire behaviour, can be overwhelming for new firefighters.

This can lead to dangerous behaviours and necessitates close supervision.

Incorporating training technologies can mitigate these challenges by gradually introducing complex scenarios, allowing trainees to build confidence and competence in a controlled environment.

Moreover, traditional training methods, such as wood burning, are physically demanding for trainers due to intense heat and water loss, and also contribute to pollution from burning materials, posing long-term health risks.

This pollution releases harmful particles, increasing the risk of inhalation-related health issues.

Training in a cleaner environment with alternative technologies can offer similar experiences with less physical strain and reduce long-term health risks, benefiting both trainees and trainers by minimising exposure to harmful particles.

What effects do you anticipate this tool will have on the fire safety training industry?

Its primary contribution will be in demonstrating that the integration of various training technologies is not just beneficial for the quality of training but is also a more economical and environmentally friendly approach.

I’m optimistic that, as a result, there will be a heightened level of preparedness among fire responders.

This tool has the potential to make a profound and lasting impact on the entire industry, enhancing both the efficiency and effectiveness of fire safety training.

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

LION explores ways to enhance fire safety training

by Featured NewsTraining

Taking fire safety training beyond basic compliance

In a recent blog post dated January 26, 2024, LION, a leading provider in fire safety training, highlighted the importance of exceeding basic compliance in fire safety training.

Authored by Matt Gardner, the post emphasises the inadequacy of merely meeting the minimum standards set by OSHA or other training standards in safeguarding life and property.

Key takeaways for elevating training standards

The blog post, stemming from a group discussion among LION Team members, presents ten key strategies for organisations to elevate their fire safety training.

These strategies focus on practical application, varied learning environments, and continuous improvement in training methods.

From theory to practice: hands-on experience with LION

Matt Gardner elaborated on the first takeaway: “Implement Hands-On Training.”

He stressed the shift from theoretical knowledge to practical, hands-on experience with fire extinguishers, ensuring users can operate them instinctively in emergencies.

Continuous learning and community engagement

The blog post also emphasises the importance of incorporating real-life variables into training scenarios, conducting regular fire drills, and engaging the community in fire safety education.

Gardner stated: “It’s essential to extend training opportunities beyond the workforce and into the community, to promote widespread safety knowledge.”

Promoting discussion and feedback in training

Another significant point raised is the encouragement of feedback and discussion post-training.

This approach allows trainees to share experiences and learn from each other, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation to new challenges and techniques in fire safety.

IFSJ Comment

The insights shared in LION’s blog post reflect a comprehensive and proactive approach to fire extinguisher training.

These strategies go beyond mere compliance, advocating for a culture that prioritises safety and preparedness in various environments.

Such an approach, encompassing hands-on training, digital simulations, and community involvement, is essential for enhancing safety preparedness within organisations.

The emphasis on continuous education and adapting training methods to specific environments shows a commitment to evolving fire safety practices.

This proactive approach is crucial for organisations to ensure the safety and well-being of their members and the wider community.