IFE launches fire risk assessment-focused qualification series

The series of qualifications includes the Level 3 Award in Fire Risk Assessment, the Level 3 Certificate in Fire Risk Assessment and the Level 4 Certificate in Fire Risk Assessment, each of them suited to different levels of experience ranging from new entrants to fire safety through to highly experienced professionals working in complex environments.

Successful candidates of the Level 3 and Level 4 Certificate in Fire Risk Assessment will also gain access to the IFE’s Fire Risk Register and meet the academic requirements for the Technician (TIFireE) membership grade.

The IFE will formally announce the qualifications at The Fire Safety Event 2026, which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham from 28-30 April. Delegates can meet with members of the IFE’s team on Stand A90 in Hall 4 to gain further information about the qualifications.

The second day of the show will feature IFE CEO Steve Hamm and IFE member and education services director Jo Tedd in the Compliance Theatre. They are due to explore professional standards and how the IFE’s qualifications support the next phase of regulatory change.

Critical time

Speaking in advance of The Fire Safety Event, Steve Hamm said: “Our new fire risk assessment qualifications have been carefully developed by the IFE and our team of fire risk assessment and fire safety specialists from across the private and public sectors.”

Hamm continued: “These qualifications launch at a critical time and support the BS 8674 tiered framework – Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced – ensuring that assessors demonstrate the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to meet nationally recognised competency benchmarks.”

Further, Hamm noted: “The qualifications form the latest addition to the IFE’s online examination suite, which has been developed over the past two years. This forward-thinking approach ensures greater flexibility and inclusivity, enabling candidates across the globe to complete their qualifications at a time and place that suits them. By removing barriers to access, the IFE is making professional development more convenient, equitable and future-ready.”

Raising standards

David Escudier, chair of the IFE’s Education Panel, added: “Clear and recognised qualifications are essential for maintaining trust and raising standards across the sector. The IFE’s new fire risk assessment examinations provide a much-needed pathway that supports both individual development and the wider profession.”

The qualifications will launch in the IFE’s October 2026 examination session. IFE examinations adopt a self-study delivery model, providing candidates with a flexible approach to progress at their own pace, in turn making it easier for both newcomers and experienced professionals to build the required knowledge and understanding alongside their existing roles and responsibilities.

*Bookings for the October session open on 1 June 2. For further information visit www.ife.org.uk/qualifications