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Brian Sims
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| Alerter Group to launch next generation Deaf Alerter devices at The Fire Safety Event | 17/03/2026 |
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ALERTER GROUP’S redeveloped Deaf Alerter devices – which provide fire alarm notifications for those individuals who are deaf or otherwise hard of hearing – feature an increased focus on style, sustainability and smart phone connectivity. They will be on display on Stand J36 in Hall 4 at The Fire Safety Event, which runs from 28-30 April at the NEC in Birmingham. One-in-four adults in the UK suffer from hearing loss. Are you sure everyone in your building can hear the fire alarms when activated? In the event of a fire, everyone must be provided with equal opportunity to evacuate buildings. The new Deaf Alerter devices are rechargeable and boast a larger LCD backlit screen for increased readability. Notifications sent to the new devices can also be sent to Bluetooth-connected smart phones. Deaf Alerter systems are compliant with BS 5839-1:2025 and use a ‘National Roaming’ feature (meaning the devices can receive notifications in any UK building displaying the Deaf Alerter sign). BS 5839-1 Section 18 is dedicated to the special requirements of “fire alarm warnings for people with impaired hearing”. It’s vital that this British Standard recommendation is followed. Section 18 of BS 5839-1 is seen as the minimum acceptable standard by industry leading experts that’s considered safe to use. It’s important not to cherry-pick areas within this British Standard, and notably so when potentially life-saving equipment is used. Alerter Group has amassed 25 years’ worth of experience in designing, manufacturing and installing radio-based emergency communication systems. As well as Deaf Alerter, the Derby-based company’s products include Refuge Alerter (a wireless Emergency Voice Communication System enabling two-way communication between building management and refuge points). *Further information is available online at www.alertergroup.com Stand J36 Hall 4 |
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| UK Vaping Industry Association contacts NFCC in wake of Glasgow blaze | 16/03/2026 |
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FOLLOWING THE devastating fire that took hold on Glasgow’s Union Street on 8 March, and which subsequently realised the destruction of the four-storey B-listed Victorian building that has stood on the city’s Union Corner site since 1851, the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has written to the National Fire Chiefs Council to ascertain that the Trade Association is “doing everything possible” to advise its members on any “immediate steps” they need to take to ensure appropriate safety measures are in place at their retail premises. *Photograph: The main entrance to Glasgow Central Station, which is next to the site of the Union Corner building The fire began at around 3.45 pm and is believed to have started in a shop on Union Street that, among other things, sold vapes. Glasgow City Council has now confirmed that the “highly dangerous” remains of the Union Corner structure will be demolished, with work on that process beginning on 13 March. Major disruption realised by the fire has included the neighbouring Glasgow Central Station being closed, although low-level platforms have now resumed operations. The latter serve the Argyle line north of the River Clyde. Once the cause of the fire is determined post-investigation, the UKVIA would welcome the opportunity to engage with Fire and Rescue Services and relevant authorities on identifying any lessons that can be learned from this incident in a bid to ensure such an episode doesn’t occur again. Fire safety message Although the precise cause of the blaze has still to be determined, the UKVIA is nevertheless keen to reinforce the fire safety message among its membership. The letter – written by John Dunne (director general of the UKVIA) – has also been circulated to the Fire Standards Board, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service. According to Dunne, the UKVIA is “already aware” of retail members having sent circulars to their stores immediately following the Glasgow blaze in order to reiterate fire and lithium battery-related safety measures. Licensing scheme Dunne observes: “We are also working with the British Government on the introduction of a mandatory retail licensing scheme, proposed as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently before Parliament. This goes beyond the Scottish registration scheme. We believe it could provide an effective mechanism for supporting robust compliance with fire safety requirements in vape retail stores across the UK in the future.” The UKVIA has long advocated for a “robust and fit-for-purpose” licensing scheme for vape retailers, including provisions to ensure the highest possible safety and compliance standards. Following on from the Glasgow incident, the Trade Association is now advising all of its members to check their fire risk assessments and contact their local Fire and Rescue Authorities should they need to seek any further guidance. *Further information is available online at www.ukvia.co.uk |
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| IFE outlines progress realised on Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion | 16/03/2026 |
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ACROSS THE past year, reports the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), the organisation has “moved decisively from intent to impact” when it comes to addressing Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EEDI). Guided by member insight, the IFE has embedded EEDI into how the organisation operates and communicates. In tandem, the IFE is proactively shaping the future of the fire engineering profession as part of structural, cultural and lasting change. The IFE is fully aware that meaningful progress starts with practical action. As such, several early commitments have already been delivered and are already “making a tangible difference”. For instance, inclusive language and accessibility checks are now embedded into the IFE’s communications and policy sign-off processes. A clear checklist supports teams to do the right thing consistently. Feedback routes are being included wherever possible so that members can inform the IFE on what works and what needs improving. Further, the organisation has “strengthened transparency and trust” through a more structured feedback system, using clear metrics to understand engagement and satisfaction. This affords a stronger evidence base for decision-making and helps to ensure member voices continue to shape the IFE’s priorities. IFE branches have been a key focus of the work, with practical guidance, presentations and tools shared with branch leaders to help embed EEDI principles into local activity. This support is designed to strengthen branch culture, encourage inclusive practice and lay the groundwork for future re-engagement across the IFE’s international network. The IFE has also identified support for members returning to the profession as an important area for future development, informed by member feedback and lived experience. This work will be shaped over time to ensure that it’s practical, proportionate and aligned with professional standards. Standards and behaviour Professional excellence depends on a safe and respectful environment. Work is well underway to reinforce a zero tolerance approach towards unacceptable behaviour, supported by strengthened policies and clearer routes for reporting concerns (including anonymously). Alongside this, the IFE has developed guidance and educational content for employers, helping them to understand what zero tolerance looks like in practice and how to embed it meaningfully within their organisations. In addition, the IFE is tackling some of the more complex structural challenges facing fire engineering. Examination-based progression routes are being reviewed and modernised, with close collaboration between the IFE and sector partners to ensure alignment with real roles and responsibilities across the Fire and Rescue Services. This work is ongoing, but it represents an important step in making professional progression clearer, fairer and more inclusive. True inclusion, of course, is sustained over time. As the IFE’s work continues to evolve, the organisation is focused on ensuring that EEDI is increasingly embedded into how decisions are made. This includes exploring how lived experience, professional insight and member feedback can better inform future activity, and also how progress can be reflected and shared in a way that’s meaningful, proportionate and transparent. To support this, the IFE is using the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Diversity and Inclusion Progression Framework internally to help reflect on progress, identify areas for improvement and benchmark the approach used over time. This will be complemented by periodic member feedback, ensuring that the IFE continues to close the loop between listening, learning and action. Members at the centre The IFE’s work doesn’t happen in isolation. Members will continue to receive regular updates through the IFE’s communications, while structured feedback loops will ensure that the organisation keeps listening, learning and adapting. Members’ experiences, challenges and successes remain the most powerful drivers of change. The IFE concludes: “Together, we are shaping a profession that’s not only technically excellent, but also inclusive, ethical and fit for the future.” *Further information is available online at www.ife.org.uk |
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| Government issues statement on elements of Grenfell Tower | 16/03/2026 |
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THE MINISTRY of Housing, Communities and Local Government has issued a statement regarding the retention of certain elements of Grenfell Tower. In this statement, the Government recognises the deep significance of Grenfell Tower to those most affected by the tragedy. Further, the Government thanks the independent Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission, and the community, for the work being transacted to create a lasting memorial. There’s also reference to recent press reports about preserving parts of the Tower for possible inclusion in the memorial and confirmation that that steps are being taken to carefully remove and preserve these elements where possible. The Government also commits to working with the Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission and the community during the memorial design process, and states that no decisions have yet been taken as to whether the requested elements will be included in the memorial. The statement reads as follows: “We recognise that Grenfell Tower has a deep personal significance to those most affected by the tragedy and that the land is sacred to families. We would like to thank the Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission and the community for their ongoing dedication and hard work towards a fitting and lasting memorial to honour those lives lost and forever changed as a result of the tragedy.” “Families may be aware of recent press reports that a request was made to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to retain certain elements of the Tower, from above Floor 9, for possible incorporation into the memorial. We are aware that this may have been a difficult time. We recognise that we did not make the Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission aware of that request.” “We can confirm that we have instructed our principal contractor, DeconstructUK, to take steps to carefully remove and preserve the requested elements, where possible.” “No decisions have been taken as to what will happen to the requested elements, including whether they will be incorporated into the memorial. We understand that families hold a range of views on that issue and further consultation and engagement will be required.” “We remain committed to working with the Commission, and the community, to support the consideration of this throughout the memorial design process being led by Freehaus.” |
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| Building Safety (Wales) Bill passed by Senedd in “huge step forward” | 16/03/2026 |
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THE WELSH Parliament has taken a major step forward to protect residents in their homes after the passing of the Building Safety (Wales) Bill, itself one of the largest pieces of legislation ever considered by the Senedd. The Building Safety (Wales) Bill establishes a “comprehensive” new building safety regime for residents of shared buildings across Wales, regardless of building height or tenure. It’s said to be “broader in scope and ambition” than equivalent legislation in England and delivers on the Welsh Government’s commitment to make building safety a guiding principle for how homes and buildings are managed across the country. The new legislation is a direct result of the Grenfell Tower tragedy that occurred back in June 2017 and as a result of which 72 people lost their lives. In essence, the Bill seeks to ensure that the failures which contributed to that disaster can never occur in Wales. Three core principles underpin the Building Safety (Wales) Bill: *Safety The Bill requires that fire risk assessments are carried out only by competent persons, with criminal penalties for those who do not comply (directly addressing a concern raised by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Panel) *Accountability The legislation establishes clear legal responsibilities for those who manage buildings, thereby ending any confusion about who’s answerable for building safety risks *Resident voice The Bill empowers residents with clear routes of redress and a stronger say in matters affecting their homes, with appropriate responsibilities for residents supported by guidance to help them contribute to a safer living environment Landmark moment Jayne Bryant, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, said: “This is a landmark moment for building safety in Wales. The legislation delivers a new building safety regime for residents across Wales, regardless of building type, height or tenure and goes further than anything that exists elsewhere in the UK.” Bryant continued: “None of this would have been possible without the support and expertise of so many partners. I want to pay particular tribute to the three Welsh Fire and Rescue Services and the many residents and leaseholders who shared their lived experiences with us. Their voices have shaped this legislation and will continue to matter as we implement it.” In conclusion, Bryant noted: “By passing this Bill, we’ve taken a huge step forward in ensuring that the people of Wales are safe in their homes.” The Welsh Government has also published a report on progress being made to implement the recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and continues to support leaseholders and residents alike through the dedicated building safety remediation programme. *Further information is available online at www.gov.wales |
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| JOB: Fire Engineers - Health & Safety Executive - £62,898 per annum | 09/03/2026 |
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THE HEALTH and Safety Executive (HSE) is looking for six Fire Engineers to join it on a full-time, permanent basis at locations throughout the country. Fire Engineers wanted in: CLICK HERE TO APPLY |
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| Entry deadline extended for Fire and Security Matters Awards 2026 | 08/03/2026 |
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WESTERN BUSINESS Media, organiser of the Fire and Security Matters Awards and the publisher of Fire Safety Matters, has extended the deadline for the submission of entries in 2026. The final deadline for entries is now 20 March. The Fire and Security Matters Awards are supported by Security Matters and its sister security titles at Western Business Media (namely Professional Security Installer, Benchmark and Risk Xtra), in addition to Fire Safety Matters. In 2026, the Fire and Security Matters Awards are once again free to enter and duly recognise excellence and innovation in the security and fire safety sectors. It only takes a few minutes of your time to prepare and submit entries for the Fire and Security Matters Awards. This is the perfect way in which to gain deserved recognition for either yourself, your team, a colleague, your organisation, a particular product/service or a specific project. In 2026, the categories are as follows: Security categories *Security Manufacturer of the Year *Security Guarding Company of the Year *Security Installation Company of the Year *Security/Risk Manager of the Year *Security Team of the Year *Security Project of the Year *Security Industry Woman of the Year *Security Innovation of the Year *Security Consultancy of the Year *Security Training Company of the Year (new for 2026!) Fire categories *Fire Safety Innovation of the Year *Fire Safety Training Company of the Year (new for 2026!) *Fire Safety Manufacturer of the Year *Fire Safety Installation Company of the Year *Fire Safety Project of the Year *Fire Safety Manager of the Year *Fire Safety Team of the Year *Fire Industry Woman of the Year *Fire Safety Consultancy of the Year Joint Security and Fire categories *ESG Company of the Year *Distributor of the Year *Commercial Person of the Year *Customer Service Award *Unsung Hero of the Year Award (new for 2026!) *Rising Star of the Year Award (new for 2026!) As always, there’s also going to be the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, the recipient of which will be chosen by the members of the independent Judging Panel. Deadline for entries *The final deadline for entries is 20 March 2026 at 23.55 pm **Click here to submit your entry/entries! ***Further information about the Fire and Security Matters Awards 2026 is available online Sponsors in 2026 The Headline Sponsor is the BAFE Fire Safety Register. Our sponsors also include Apollo Fire Detectors, the Association of Security Consultants, EMS, Hyfire, Suprema, The Fire Safety Event and The Security Event. The winners of the Fire and Security Matters Awards 2026 will be revealed at a gala black-tie dinner and ceremony to be held at the CBS Arena in Coventry on the evening of 2 July. |
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| The Growing Impact of Women in the Fire and Life Safety Industry | 06/03/2026 |
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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S Day 2026, which is observed on 8 March, is a moment to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women, while reflecting on the progress still to be made. In the fire and life safety domain, writes the Fire Industry Association (FIA), that reflection carries particular significance. This is a sector built on protecting lives, safeguarding communities and upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Yet, historically at least, it has been one of the most male-dominated industries. As the sector evolves, addressing this imbalance is not simply about representation. It’s also about ensuring the industry benefits from the widest possible range of skills, perspectives and talent. Encouragingly, change is underway. More women are entering technical, operational and leadership roles, in turn helping to shape the future of fire and life safety, while also challenging outdated perceptions about who belongs in the industry. To mark this year’s International Women’s Day, the FIA has spoken with women who’ve built – or are building – successful careers across the sector. They’ve shared insights into how the industry has evolved, the opportunities available and what more can be done to accelerate progress. According to the latest workforce data, women now account for around 9.7% of firefighters in England, which is up from 8.2% in 2022. Encouragingly, 15% of apprentice firefighters in the year ending March 2024 were women, highlighting progress having been made in attracting more females into the profession. These statistics highlight two important realities: meaningful progress is happening, but sustained action is required to accelerate change. Driving innovation, collaboration and growth Across the fire and life safety industry, women are influencing how organisations innovate and grow. Michelle Agius has spent 36 years in the industry and was the first female Board director at Apollo Fire Detectors, appointed in the role of sales and marketing director. In this role, Agius helped to expand the reach of life safety systems internationally, particularly so across the Middle East. Reflecting on the industry’s development, Agius stated: “When I first entered the fire safety sector, it was an overwhelmingly male-dominated environment. Over the years, I’ve been encouraged to see more women entering the industry and contributing across technical, commercial and leadership roles. The sector benefits when we open the door to a wider range of perspectives and experiences.” Agius also established an independent panel partnership network that brought together manufacturers to support legislative change and product development. This helped to make the open protocol market more accessible and encouraged wider innovation across the sector. Sixteen years ago, Agius founded her own company (ie Eurotech Fire Systems) to design, manufacture and supply life safety systems. The business now exports its products to 44 countries and has received numerous industry awards recognising excellence in collaboration, partnership and manufacturing. “The fire and life safety industry offers incredibly rewarding careers,” noted Agius. “It’s a sector where the work genuinely matters, and where there are real opportunities to grow, innovate and make a difference.” Agius has served as a main Board director with the FIA since 2018 and currently chairs the Trade Association’s Export and Marketing Group, supporting the UK fire sector’s engagement with global markets. Leadership that strengthens Leadership within organisations is equally important in shaping the industry’s future. Elaine Walters, fire and building safety manager at Gentoo, brings almost a decade’s worth of experience in fire safety, supported by earlier roles in planned and responsive maintenance within the housing sector. This background has afforded her a strong understanding of building safety, regulatory compliance and the challenges involved in protecting residents who reside within higher-risk buildings. Today, Walters leads a team of six fire safety professionals and plays an important role in developing future talent within the sector. She currently supports three colleagues in development roles, including a graduate, a trainee and an apprentice fire and building safety advisor, helping them to build the knowledge and confidence required for progression in the profession. “Championing the next generation of fire and building safety professionals is something I care deeply about,” affirmed Walters. “By sharing knowledge, building confidence and creating clear growth pathways, I hope to play a small part in shaping a stronger, more diverse and resilient profession for the future.” Expanding roles The range of careers within fire safety is broader than many people realise. According to Stacey Adams (project specification and business growth lead at Apollo Fire Detectors), women are now working across every area of the industry. “From my own experience,” commented Adams, “women are working right across the fire industry, not just in one area or type of role. I see women in technical and specification roles, project delivery, operations, commercial leadership, training, sustainability, compliance and senior management. Many are also heavily involved in industry collaboration and standards work through organisations like the FIA.” Adams concluded: “Importantly, their contributions are not peripheral. Women are influencing strategic decisions, shaping projects and delivering outcomes that directly affect customers, partners and end users.” Many professionals highlight that women have strengthened communication and collaboration across teams. Fire safety is highly technical as a discipline, but also relies on trust, responsibility and strong relationships with customers and partners. As the experiences shared here demonstrate, women operating across the fire and life safety sector are contributing directly towards project delivery, leadership and professional development. From expanding international markets and supporting legislative change through to mentoring new entrants and strengthening training pathways, their work is helping to shape the industry’s continued growth and professionalism. More inclusive future Increasing female representation in the fire safety sector must begin with greater awareness of the opportunities it offers. Many women are unaware of the wide range of careers available in fire safety. Early engagement with schools, colleges and universities can help introduce these opportunities through career talks, industry presentations and partnerships with educational institutions. Employers also play an important role. Apprenticeships, training programmes and entry-level opportunities can create clear pathways into the sector, while inclusive recruitment practices serve to encourage more women to consider technical and operational roles. Perhaps most importantly, showcasing real career journeys helps to demonstrate that there’s no single path into the industry. Now a director at APS, Jenny Mair began her career in the civil service before transitioning into the fire safety and compliance sector. “Working in a small and supportive team gave me the chance to learn from experienced engineers, suppliers and auditors who emphasised one key principle: in fire safety, making sure it’s right matters because lives depend on it. That mindset shaped my career. As APS grew, so did my role, progressing from administrator to office manager and director, all while gaining FIA qualifications along the way.” Mair added: “Fire safety remains a traditionally male-dominated industry, but it’s changing and for the better. My experience has shown me that with support, curiosity and confidence, women can thrive here. I hope more women continue to explore this industry as the opportunities are real, the work is meaningful and the future is increasingly inclusive.” Looking ahead The fire and life safety industry has a strong future. As buildings become more complex and safety expectations continue to rise, demand for skilled professionals across engineering, compliance, research and leadership will continue to grow. Increasing the number of women working in the sector will help the industry reach its full potential. A more diverse workforce strengthens innovation, improves collaboration and supports the industry’s continued development. In an industry dedicated to protecting lives, embracing the full breadth of talent available is not simply the right thing to do. It’s essential for ensuring the highest standards of safety and continued progress. *The Fire Industry Association would like to thank those professionals who generously shared their experiences and insights. We are grateful to Michelle Agius, Elaine Walters, Stacey Adams and Jenny Mair for contributing their perspectives. Their stories serve to highlight the growing impact of women across the fire and life safety sector and inspire the next generation to explore the many opportunities the industry has to offer |
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| Building Safety Regulator Residents’ Panel seeks independent chair | 08/03/2026 |
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RESIDENTS MUST be able to trust that the building safety system works for them and that their lived experience helps shape how it operates in practice. In order to strengthen that commitment, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is recruiting an independent chair for its Residents’ Panel. The independent chair for the BSR Residents’ Panel is an important leadership role within the new building safety regime. The chair will provide independent oversight and direction to the Residents’ Panel. This will help ensure residents’ perspectives are heard, understood and meaningfully reflected in regulatory thinking, policy development and decision-making. The BSR Residents’ Panel brings together people with direct experience of living in higher-risk buildings. It provides a structured and consistent forum for residents to share their views on building safety, raise concerns and contribute insight into how the system works for those whom it’s designed to protect. The Residents’ Panel doesn’t replace formal regulatory processes. Instead, it ensures that residents’ voices remain embedded in the wider building safety conversation, thereby helping to inform how regulation is applied and improved over time. An effective and trusted chair is central to making this work well. The chair will be a current resident of a high-rise residential building and will bring direct, lived experience of the higher-risk building regime. This requirement is intended to ensure that the Residents’ Panel’s leadership actively reflects the perspectives of those directly affected by building safety policy and regulatory decisions. Core responsibilities The chair will play a pivotal role in ensuring the Residents’ Panel operates confidently, independently and with real impact. Responsibilities include: *leading quarterly Residents’ Panel meetings *creating a safe, respectful and inclusive space for discussion *supporting residents to articulate their experiences and concerns *helping to translate lived experience into practical insight that can inform the BSR’s work *working constructively with the BSR, while also maintaining independence and credibility The BSR is seeking someone with strong facilitation and leadership skills who understands the importance of trust, fairness and clear communication. Experience in housing, resident advocacy, regulation or public service may be helpful. What matters most, though, is the ability to listen carefully, challenge constructively and represent residents’ interests with confidence. This recruitment reflects the BSR’s wider commitment to placing residents at the centre of building safety, not simply as consultees, but rather as active participants in shaping a safer and more accountable system. *Further information is available on the Health and Safety Executive’s website |
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| Fire Safety Matters to run interactive Women in Fire Safety webinar | 08/03/2026 |
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AS PART of the multiple award-winning magazine’s ongoing Women in Fire Safety campaign, Fire Safety Matters is set to host an hour-long Continuing Professional Development (CPD)-accredited webinar purpose-designed to shine a light on the myriad achievements realised by female professionals operating in the fire sector. To be chaired by Mark Sennett (CEO of Western Business Media and the founder of Fire Safety Matters magazine) on 8 May from 10.30 am-11.30 am, this interactive session is underpinned by a core objective: to increase diversity across the fire safety domain. Taking part are Stacey Adams (project specification and business growth lead at Apollo Fire Detectors), Kelly Nock (managing director at Xact Consultancy and Training), Julie Saunders FISFM AIFireE ATPI (fire safety inspector representing the Institute of Fire Safety Managers) and Isabel Elswood (fire suppression manager at the Fire Protection Association’s fire testing laboratory). During the course of the webinar, there will be an exploration of not only what more can be done to encourage more women to seek a career in the fire sector, but also a concentration on how leading females in the sector have achieved career progression to date. In what’s going to be a hugely informative Q&A-style format, the participants will share personal experiences from their time in the sector to date. Fire Safety Matters’ Women in Fire Safety campaign is very much part of the mix. Indeed, feedback from webinar attendees is going to help shape the magazine’s new and ongoing campaign, which runs in parallel with the Women in Fire Safety Awards (recently acquired by Western Business Media). All those industry practitioners who register to view the webinar will qualify for CPD courtesy of Fire Safety Matters’ arrangement with the Institute of Fire Safety Managers. *Register for Fire Safety Matters’ Women in Fire Safety webinar NOW! |
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