FIA and FireQual introduce new examination platform and online invigilation process

From this month onwards, all FIA examinations conducted through FireQual will be delivered via Surpass. The new platform provides an improved examination experience for candidates, while also supporting enhanced quality assurance, security and compliance requirements.

For most candidates the transition will be straightforward. The examination process remains familiar, although the appearance of the system and some functionality will differ from the previous platform. Going forward, candidates sitting examinations should expect a different user interface and are encouraged to read any guidance provided before commencing their assessment.

This change also marks the beginning of a wider programme of improvements that will be introduced over the coming weeks.

Online invigilation

As part of ongoing regulatory and Awarding Organisation requirements, the FIA and FireQual will begin introducing Online Proctoring (ie online invigilation) for examinations.

Online invigilation enables candidates to complete examinations remotely, while maintaining the same standards of security and integrity expected during in-person assessments.

Candidates taking online invigilated examinations will be required to:

*complete a system and equipment check before their examination

*verify their identity (note that company IDs are no longer accepted)

*provide a clear view of their examination environment

*ensure desks and workspaces are free from unauthorised materials

*remain alone in the room throughout the assessment

*follow all examination instructions and invigilation requirements

Full guidance documents and support materials will be made available before candidates are required to undertake online invigilated assessments.

What candidates need to do

The FIA and FireQual strongly encourage all candidates, employers and booking contacts to review any examination guidance issued by the FIA and FireQual. Examination arrangements that may have applied previously should not be assumed to remain unchanged under the new system.

Candidates will receive clear instructions in advance of their examination and will be given sufficient notice of any new requirements.

Supporting guidance

A range of support documents, including step-by-step guides and technical requirements, will be made available on the FIA website.

All candidates, members and training customers are thanked for their support during this transition. Both organisations look forward to delivering an enhanced examination experience through the new Surpass platform.

*For further information visit www.fia.uk.com and www.firequal.com