The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has reported strong support from members for its strict membership requirements, which were introduced at the start of 2021. The new requirements make it mandatory for member companies to demonstrate that a proportion of their employees have been suitably trained and/or have achieved appropriate qualifications in passive fire protection.
The move is intended to enable ASFP members to clearly demonstrate their skills, competence, and professionalism by achieving Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 2 or 3 qualifications in Passive Fire Protection.
Rise in interest in ASFP's training courses
These requirements exceed the current competency expectations of the construction and passive fire protection industries. The ASFP has seen a significant increase in interest in its training courses. In 2021 alone, 80 individuals have undertaken the classroom-based ASFP Level 3 Foundation Course in Passive Fire Protection.
A further 95 delegates have taken the Level 3 course, and 85 the Level 2 course, via the ASFP’s e-learning platform. In addition, more than 1,600 individuals have completed the ASFP’s Online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection.
The ASFP Foundation Course in Passive Fire Protection
IFE Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications were developed in partnership by the ASFP and the IFE.
The ASFP Foundation Course in Passive Fire Protection courses offers a foundation in fire safety and fire science, as well as units on different forms of passive fire protection.
The courses and the IFE Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications were developed in partnership by the ASFP and the IFE to provide recognition of individuals who have attained the essential knowledge and understanding to work efficiently and safely in passive fire protection roles.
The Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications are the only passive fire protection qualifications in the UK and Ireland recognized by regulator - Ofqual. Furthermore, those who obtain the IFE Level 3 Certificate are eligible to apply to join the IFE at Technician grade enabling them to gain professional recognition in the global fire sector and use the post nominal TIFireE.
Online fire protection courses
The ASFP Online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection provides a basic overview of passive fire protection covering key elements of design, installation, and inspection.
Delivered in 13 video modules, it is intended to provide a first step for those considering a career in the passive fire protection industry. On successful completion of an online test, candidates are awarded 3 hours CPD.