Fire and Security Association names new chair

Mr Brookes has over 25 years’ experience within the fire industry, having started work as a fire engineer in 1992. He bought Lindum Fire Services in 2002, and has since turned it into one of the major fire detection and alarm systems organisations within Lincolnshire.

His career has also involved involvement with a range of industry bodies, including as a technical committee member at the British Standards Institute, and chairman of the British Fire Consortium.

Head of the FSA Steve Martin said: “The FSA is pleased to confirm that Tom Brookes has taken over the role of chair from Pat Allen. Pat has done a fantastic job in recent years and we look forward to continued success with Tom at the helm.

“With the fire industry currently in the spotlight, Tom is the ideal person to ensure that the FSA becomes a key player in ensuring standards and safety are placed at the forefront of building development and improvement.”

New FSA chair Tom Brookes added: “I am delighted to be taking over as chair of the FSA at a very crucial time for our industry. I aim to utilise my 25 years’ experience in the fire sector to ensure that the industry drives through improvements in the safety of both residential and commercial buildings.

“Many thanks to my predecessor Pat Allen for all his hard work in the role, notably on the development of a new trailblazer apprenticeship for the sector. I am pleased that Pat will continue to be involved with the FSA in the capacity of vice chair, and look forward to working closely.”

The government recently announced an independent review of the ‘Building Regulations and Fire Safety’, in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster. The FSA intends to respond to the review on behalf of the industry, notably in respect to high-rise residential and commercial buildings.