FIA reports on “huge success” for 2021 edition of FIM Expo

The FIA delivered its unrivalled training for a significant number of delegates offering BS 5839-1 Units 1 and 2. Furthermore, throughout the duration of FIM Expo, a range of seminars focused on continuing business development. The FIA gave guidance on BS 7273 Parts 4 and 6. Advanced detailed the best route to compliance for emergency lighting, with Aico delivering vital information on domestic alarm technology.

FFE discussed the use of flame detection in compliance with BS 5839 Parts 1 and 6, Hochiki explained BS 5839 Parts 1 and 6 and Apollo delivered the final session on FAQs in relation to EN54-23. The seminars afforded those in attendance an excellent opportunity to expand their knowledge and, in tandem, learn from some of the best in the industry. 

The exhibitors at FIM Expo 2021 included Advanced, Aico, Apollo, C-TEC, Drax360, Eurotech Fire Systems, the FFE Group, Everlux, Fireco, FirePro, Global Fire Equipment, Hochiki, Honeywell, Hyfire, Kentec, Nittan UK, Tio Fire Safety, Vimpex and Wagner.

The team from Fire Safety Matters was in attendance, including Western Business Media CEO Mark Sennett, Editor Brian Sims and Leanne Velez, the magazine’s business development manager.

‘Next generation’ in attendance

The FIA was delighted to welcome ‘the next generation’ of fire professionals to the one-day event. Fire and security lecturer Robin Hamill brought along 25 students from the South Eastern Regional College, thereby affording them an opportunity to meet influential people in the fire industry. All of the students combine their studies with part-time work in the fire industry.

FIA CEO Ian Moore was on hand to deliver a speech to the students all about the FIA and what the organisation does for the industry in which they are just starting out. It was a perfect opportunity for them to gain a greater understanding of how the fire industry works and grow their own knowledge on all of the sectors encompassed within it.

“The event was very well organised,” enthused Robin Hamill, “with exhibitors showcasing their products and industry experts delivering presentations to enhance the knowledge and understanding of complex aspects of legislation and current clauses of the various British and European industry standards.”

He continued: “The largest Trade Association for the fire sector in the UK hosting an event in Northern Ireland demonstrates its commitment to promoting professionalism in the Northern Irish fire industry and served to showcase opportunities for school leavers and others to forge a career within it. The students who attended the event found the experience to be very beneficial to their learning and would relish the opportunity to attend similar events in the near future.”

Promoting the industry’s profile

Fellow lecturer Chris Patterson observed: “These types of events are a great way in which to promote the fire industry’s profile. That’s even more true when the largest fire sector Trade Association in the UK is engaged in the organisation and delivery and ensures people take notice.”

In conclusion, Patterson noted: “If the FIA would consider supporting an event in Northern Ireland aimed at school leavers, that would absolutely enhance the professionalism and reputation of the fire industry by providing awareness, guidance and expertise for those considering their careers.”

The South Eastern Regional College is keen to engage with – and work alongside – the FIA and other industry experts to support events such as the FIM Expo that deliver a platform designed to encourage new entrants to the sector who are looking to build a career.