Frequently Asked Questions

• Are you confused about the different qualification frameworks

  Confused about the different Qualification Frameworks? Take a look at our blog which talks about the corresponding levels between UK national qualification frameworks and the European qualification framework.

• Need to Understand Updates to BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme Document (Version 8.0)

  We are pleased to inform you about the release of Version 8.0 of the BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme Document, which was officially published on August 21, 2023. This document is a significant resource for professionals involved in the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems.

  What You Need to Know

  For organisations that are already certificated/BAFE Registered or are currently in the process of achieving certification/BAFE Registration within this scope, it's crucial to understand that different rules apply. These specific details are outlined in Clause 1: Introduction of the BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme Document Version 8.0.

  The primary objective of this latest version is to ensure that organisations can effectively demonstrate their competency with objective evidence. Changes have been carefully implemented through collaboration with the BAFE SP203-1 Monitoring Committee, which includes all BAFE SP203-1 Licensed Certification Bodies. These changes are in line with current industry demands and aim to safeguard certificated/Registered Organisations from potential future industry modifications.

  Key Changes from Version 7.2 to Version 8.0

  To provide you with a clear understanding of the updates, here's a summary of the key changes made:

  • Scope Clarification: Version 8.0 reviews the BAFE SP203-1 scope, emphasising its focus on work carried out on fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises following BS 5839-1 standard.
  • Additional Scope: This version introduces additional scope for work performed on fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises (specifically Grade A systems) in alignment with BS 5839-6.
  • Enhanced Management System: The management system procedures and records have been reviewed and adjusted to ensure that required actions are carried out and documented appropriately.
  • Safety Culture Focus: The management system now places a heightened emphasis on appropriate behaviours, such as fostering a strong safety culture and consistently adhering to scheme requirements.
  • Operational Locations and Criteria: Version 8.0 offers greater clarity on operational locations and criteria that must be followed to meet BAFE SP203-1 criteria.
  • Lead Individual(s): An introduction of nominated Lead Individual(s) for each module is part of this update. These individuals bear overall responsibility for all work(s), and there is an increased emphasis on individual/employee competence.
  • Sub-Contractor Clarification: There is now a clear clarification regarding the use of sub-contractors, particularly in protecting end clients. This update justifies the removal of the previous annex "Rules for remote UK islands and crown dependencies where no certificated organisations exist."
  • Certificate Issuing: This section has been clarified for better understanding and implementation.
  • Updated Model Certificates: The model certificates have been updated to reflect the changes made in Version 8.0.

  Ensuring Competency

  It's essential to note that regulated qualifications are required for lead roles in critical areas such as design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance. These qualifications are integral to ensuring that professionals in these roles possess the necessary expertise to uphold safety standards.

  We encourage all relevant stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the changes introduced in BAFE SP203-1 Competency Scheme Document Version 8.0 to ensure compliance and continued competence in the field of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems.

  For access to the full document and detailed information, please visit the BAFE website or contact us directly.

  Your commitment to maintaining the highest standards in fire safety is greatly appreciated, and these updates aim to support your efforts in this important endeavour.

• Why is Fire and Security Engineer Training Important

  Fire and security engineer training is essential for individuals who are responsible for designing, installing, maintaining, and commissioning fire and security systems. 

  Ember Compliance specialises in providing comprehensive training programs for fire and security engineers. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of fire and security engineer training and how Ember Compliance can provide a comprehensive training program.

  Importance of Fire and Security Engineer Training:

  Ensuring System Functionality:

  Fire and security engineer training is essential for ensuring that fire and security systems are designed, installed, and maintained correctly. Proper training can help engineers understand the complexities of fire and security systems and ensure that they are functioning correctly.

  Maintaining Compliance:

  Our training can help engineers understand legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring that fire and security systems meet compliance standards. Proper training can help engineers stay up-to-date with changing regulations and requirements.

  Improving Safety:

  Proper training can help improve the safety of buildings and the people inside them. Fire and security systems are critical in preventing loss of life and property damage, and properly trained engineers can ensure that these systems function correctly.

  Ember Compliance Comprehensive Training Program:

  Ember Compliance provides a comprehensive training program for fire and security engineers. Our program includes:

  Technical Training:

  We offer technical training for fire and security engineers. Our training covers a wide range of topics, including the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire and security systems. Our training is designed to ensure that engineers have a solid foundation in fire and security systems.

  Compliance Training:

  We also provide compliance training for fire and security engineers. Our training covers legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring that engineers understand the compliance standards for fire and security systems.

  Practical Training:

  In our classroom training courses, we also provide practical training for fire and security engineers. Our training includes hands-on experience with fire and security systems, providing engineers with the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

  Certification:

  Through the CPD Certification Service and FireQual we offer certification for fire and security engineers. Our certification program ensures that engineers have the knowledge and skills necessary to design, install, commission, and maintain fire and security systems effectively.

  Fire and security engineer training is essential for ensuring that fire and security systems are designed, installed, commissioned, and maintained correctly and that legal and regulatory requirements are met.

  At Ember Compliance we provide a comprehensive training program that covers technical, compliance, and practical training, as well as certification.

  If you require fire and security engineer training, contact Ember Compliance to discuss your needs and learn how we can help.

• What is the 5-day course & what qualification will I gain?

  Please click here to download our brochure outlining the courses each day.