The Fire Industry Association is offering training to a new Level 3 qualification for the fire detection and alarm (FD&A) sector - the FIA AO Level 3 Fundamentals of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems in Non-Domestic Premises.

This new qualification is designed to provide a concise and focused introduction to the FD&A sector. It is ideal for anyone looking for a qualification in fire detection, whether they already work in the industry or are just starting out in it.

The training comprises 2 x two-day training units with an open-book exam at the end of the second unit. Those who pass will gain a Level 3 qualification based on BS 5839-1.

Following the Grenfell Tower fire and subsequent Independent Review of Building Regulations & Fire Safety, along with listening to industry feedback, the FIA reviewed its current training and Level 3 qualifications available and identified the need for a more succinct Level 3 qualification focusing on the fundamentals of fire detection and alarm management.

FIA CEO, Ian Moore says, “We have been running our Level 3 qualifications for over a year now and it is clear from the feedback a different style of exam is needed.

"Modern exam techniques focus more on where to find the information that is readily available (i.e. through the internet, manuals or standards) and not a memory test as I was used to ‘back in the day’.

"The new Fundamentals qualification will have an open book (BS 5839-1 or the FIA training manual) exam and having completed, what we consider to be world-class, training the learners will be able to approach the exam with confidence.”

It is widely accepted that a key way to demonstrate competency in FD&A is to be qualified to Level 3 and the FIA Awarding Organisation’s Fundamentals qualification has been developed to Level 3 and registered on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), equivalent to a Level 4 on the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

 

For more information about the qualification or to enrol on the two training units go to www.fia.uk.com.