The Role for Registered Engineers in the Fire Service

In recent years the Fire Service has undergone significant change; traditionally the work of the Fire and Rescue Services within the built environment has been directed by the use of codes and guidance. Building design has changed greatly in previous years such that the engineered solutions have been developed to overcome the limitations of current building codes.

In order to fully understand the implications of engineered solutions some fire authorities now have trained officers who have followed an approved course of study leading to a BEng qualification and as such allow registration within the Engineering Council as a Chartered Engineer. However there are other grades of registration namely EngTech and IEng which will be of benefit to the Fire Service.

The role of the Fire Service 'Fire Engineer' is usually associated with building design and in the consultation with Building Control Authorities; however the introduction of Integrated Risk Management and changes to operational practises means that there are other clear fields in which registered engineers could contribute.

This presentation presents some of the roles that could be undertaken registered engineers working within the Fire Service, it also some suggested levels of registration linked to role.