A new qualification for fire door professionals has been unveiled in a step towards the launch of Europe’s first Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS).
The new Diploma in Fire Doors is a joint initiative developed by the British Woodworking Federation’s CERTIFIRE Fire Door and Doorset Scheme and the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI), the two industry bodies behind the creation of the FDIS.
The FDIS online learning platform goes live this week, containing 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.
The FDIS Diploma comprises a foundation module, timber fire doors and frames, metal fire doors, glazing, seals and ironmongery.
Each module looks at the relevant regulations and standards that apply to fire door components and how certification is crucial to compliance.
The inspection scheme is designed to transform people’s knowledge and understanding about the critical purpose and function of fire doors in buildings such as hospitals, hotels, commercial offices and industrial buildings, and social housing.
“There is little doubt that the certification of fire doors has helped to reassure specifiers and building owners that door performance meets required standards, and has been instrumental in improving safety and saving lives,” said BWF-CERTIFIRE Scheme chairman Peter Johnson.
“The FDIS is a natural evolution, helping to highlight the difference between a certified safe door and those which may not be appropriate for use or have been rendered inappropriate by poor maintenance or misuse.”
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.
