IFSM and SSAIB joint initiative focuses on professional technician status

Apprentices will benefit from the start of their learning journey with free student membership of the Institute as they begin their regional FESS apprenticeship. On completion, equipped with their ECS/FESS competency card, they will then be able to apply for the Institute’s Technician membership grade (TIFSM), with the Institute bestowing this grade free for the first year as they start on their chosen career.

Significantly, this joint IFSM-SSAIB initiative also provides a route for the existing workforce – upskilling from operative to fire technician, supported by their ECS/FESS competency card – to apply for the Institute’s Technician membership grade by recognising their profession status.

Professional recognition

Trevor Jenks, national training manager at the SSAIB, explained: “The SSAIB is delighted to be involved in this exciting new initiative which gives professional recognition to the FESS Fire Systems Technician. Starting with IFSM student membership, apprentices will benefit from the Institute’s support throughout their journey to FESS Fire Technician and starting their professional career as an IFSM Technical member. The SSAIB continues to take a leading role in setting and raising technical standards as the whole FESS sector upskills on its route towards competence and professional recognition.”

David White, chair of the IFSM, responded: “The Institute is passionate about encouraging young professionals into the industry and creating a career pathway for those working in the fire industry. Competency is key and the Institute is happy to recognise the ECS/FESS card as part of its membership scheme. Members at all grades are kept up-to-date with the latest industry news and details of legislative updates. They also benefit from Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities. CPD is a requirement of membership and this helps those in the industry to continue to develop and remain competent.”

Presentation prepared

The IFSM has produced a presentation for registered FESS training providers to use as part of their training delivery. It includes detail on why individuals should become members of the professional body, the benefits to be derived and how to apply.

The SSAIB is a third party certification body certificating over 2,000 firms for a range of services in the security and fire safety industries. For over 25 years now, the SSAIB has been protecting businesses and homeowners by providing certification through its highly trained team of industry experts.