TRAINING MATTERS

ASFP Training Manager Chris Sharman introduces the ASFP’s latest training offerings

Over the last 12 months we have conducted a number of training courses in support of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 2 and Level 3 Passive Fire Protection examinations. We have also introduced two new courses: the new Online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection, and the Online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection For Installers. Both of these courses have been very well received and delegate numbers are continuing to grow steadily.

In addition to providing an up-to-date introduction to the passive fire world these two courses also highlight the Association’s aim of tailoring our training offerings so they specifically target learning provisions to the needs of the audience receiving them. The intention over the rest of this year is to develop additional packages aimed at those with specific designer roles, with both entry level and higher level continuous professional development (CPD) packages aimed at architects.

New courses at a higher level are also being envisaged. These will be aimed at those with technical inspection responsibilities. Firstly though, and in response to numerous enquiries and suggestions from our members, we are launching a course specifically aimed at installers to sit between our current Online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection For Installers and the Level 2 Foundation Course

Training pathway for installers

The experience and knowledge of our training staff and our membership has enabled us to relate our training to the specific needs of installers as they develop their career in passive fire protection. Those first joining the industry as an installer will be directed towards the Online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection For Installers. For those already working in the passive fire sector as installers who require more formal learning, we are proud announce the launch of a new ASFP Installer Course in July 2023.

This course is an online video series utilising the same Area 9 platform we use for our Foundation course to provide a more interactive package than the introductory courses. This course provides an ideal stepping stone to those wishing to progress on to supervisory roles, where the Level 2 Foundation Course is applicable, and then for those moving on to managerial or senior technical roles, where the Level 3 Foundation Course is more suitable.

This offering now demonstrates a clear academic level of progression for installation operatives and site supervisors for the first time in the passive fire sector in support of the ASFP Competency Pathway.

Training on the move

An additional training offering is the ASFP Passive Fire Experience, our mobile training centre, recently demonstrated at the Fire Safety Event and Firex. This fully immersive mobile learning experience is based on our Online Introduction to Passive Fire Protection. As this mobile classroom offering develops, more course options will become available. The ASFP Passive Fire Experience can be transported to various locations around the country. Should you wish to enquire about its availability, please drop us a line via the ASFP website to discuss your requirements.

As always, our training continues to develop and expand to reflect the needs of our industry and our membership. We continue to look for ways we can support you all going forward.