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March 5, 2012

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New diploma in fire-door inspection launched

A new qualification for fire-door and building safety professionals has been unveiled as part of the programme to launch of Europe’s first Fire Door Inspection Scheme.

While similar schemes are well established in the USA, the UK’s Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) is the first of its kind on this side of the Atlantic and is designed to transform people’s knowledge and understanding about the critical purpose and function of fire doors in buildings covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order and equivalent legislation.

It aims to help improve fire safety management, protect property, and ultimately save lives through creating a new pool of expertise and competence to help those with legal responsibilities under the RRO.

The new Diploma in Fire Doors is a joint initiative developed by the BWF-CERTIFIRE Fire Door and Doorset Scheme and the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI), the two industry bodies behind the creation of the UK FDIS.

The FDIS online learning platform is now live and contains seven Web-based education modules, which are designed to be studied at a candidate’s own pace and location. A final examination can be taken at a local test centre, and successful candidates will be awarded the Diploma in Fire Doors and be entitled to use the designation DipFD after their name.

Gary Amer, chief executive of the GAI and spokesperson for FDIS, said: “We already know there is strong demand for this qualification. The FDIS online education programme is available to anyone who wishes to have a greater knowledge of fire doors and a qualification to prove it.

“Not only does it allow someone to demonstrate that they are an acknowledged professional with recognised expertise in fire doors but it is also the first step towards becoming an FDIS Certificated Inspector, able to offer fire-door inspection services to building owners and landlords affected by the UK’s stringent fire safety regulations.”

The independent certification of FDIS inspectors is likely to start later this year, resulting in a searchable database of local inspectors who can check on the specification, installation and maintenance of fire doors in all buildings being built.

In order to become certificated fire door inspectors, Diploma holders will have to complete an additional education module, which explains what is expected of an FDIS inspector and how the scheme works. They will also need to demonstrate detailed knowledge and skills in a practical, working environment and be assessed by an independent third party. All certificated inspectors will also have to work in accordance with the FDIS Code of Conduct.

For further information, visit: www.fdis.co.uk

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Dave
Dave
12 years ago

this is a good idea , but the cost at £ 500 will exclude a lot of people