In celebration of 100 years of the IFE and continuing to build on previous event successes, the South Wales IFE Branch organized a CPD event on 19th July 2018 at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters.
The event, which focused on Fire Compartmentation, attracted over 100 delegates and was supported by Firerite UK, a Fire Protection Company based in South Wales. The presentations were developed to focus on key elements of Compartmentation.
How firestop products are tested
Fire-Rite UK Ltd gave an overview of how their Company has developed and thrived
The event was opened by Group Manager St John Towel of BFS at SWFRS and first up was Gauthier Mahe supported by Lee Frost - Hilti (Great Britain) Ltd; giving an overview of the Hilti fire stopping range, product selection and an understanding of how firestop products are tested and approved.
After morning break, Mr. Gareth Selway - Systems Director, Fire-Rite UK Ltd, gave an overview of how his Company has developed and thrived, offering a range of Third Party Certified services and products, providing reassurance for Fire-Rite customers.
Range of fire risk assessors
Then before buffet lunch Mr. Gareth Evans Principal Fire Risk Consultant Fire-Rite UK Ltd; presented on a range of fire risk assessors considerations when assessing fire compartmentation linking to and referencing the guidance documents Fire Risk Assessment Competency Council – “ A Guide to Choosing a Competent Fire Risk Assessor” and “Competency Criteria for Fire Risk Assessors”, (particularly Appendix H1 – Passive fire protection) provided on the NFCC website and emphasizing how they support the Fire protection Industry Scheme BAFE SP 205 Part 1 “Life Safety” Fire Risk assessments, also discussing the importance of identifying the scope of a fire risk assessment and the different types of assessments and surveys which may be conducted in certain circumstances.
How and why fire doors work
FDIS gave an insight into the need and process of fire door inspections, how and why fire doors work
Then, after lunch, Mr. Kevin Hulin of Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) gave an insight into the need and process of fire door inspections, how and why fire doors work, and the potential dangers of getting it wrong. Finishing with a look forward to Fire Door Safety Week 24 – 30 September 2018.
Mr. Anthony Pitcher NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership - Specialist Estates Services provided a comprehensive introduction to fire dampers and their role in maintaining compartmentation and the crucial role played in supporting the concept of Progressive Horizontal Evacuation, also discussing inspection, servicing, and maintenance requirements.
Benefits of membership of the IFE
The final presentation was delivered by Station Manager Steve Morgan of SWFRS who gave the audit/ enforcement view of Fire Compartmentation and its role in promoting fire fighter safety. To close the event in recognition of their support, a presentation of a Limited edition IFE centenary lapel pin to commemorate the Institution's 100th anniversary was made to presenters and organizers, including Mr. Don Freeman, Branch Secretary.
The South Wales Branch also invited IFE members in attendance to offer content for future events and highlighted the benefits of membership of the IFE, emphasizing the shared commitment towards continuing development of knowledge and skills for fire professionals. Post event feedback has been consistently very positive and encouraging.
