Implementation of Integrated Fire Risk Management

Dave Berry, one of IFC's Principal Consultants presented his paper on the "Implementation of Integrated Fire Risk Management - what educational base do we require?" at the Rasbash Lecture.

Peter Jackman, Technical Director of International Fire Consultants (IFC) was invited by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) to chair the afternoon session of the Rasbash Lecture, held at the end of June 2006.

Dave Berry, one of IFC's Principal Consultants was also invited to present his paper on the "Implementation of Integrated Fire Risk Management - what educational base do we require?".

The Rasbash Lecture commemorates the life and work of Professor David Rasbash (1921 - 1997), one of the pioneers in the field of fire safety engineering.

This year's theme was "Issues and Opportunities for the Future of Fire Engineering".

The lecture is a prestigious event in the IFE's calendar.

The Rasbash lecturer is selected on the basis of his eminence in the field of fire safety engineering and the event is marked by the presentation of the Rasbash Memorial Medal, which was struck and sponsored by IFC.

Below is a synopsis of Dave Berry's paper: There are three basic elements to the process of managing the fire risk:.

* Prevention.

* Protection.

* Fire Fighting.

There is a need to recognise that "Integrated Risk Management Plans" have become the central basis for the future development of the Fire and Rescue Service in England and Wales, both at central and local level.

The Fire and Rescue Service needs to take into account the other risks to society that it is now formally responsible for such as road accidents, flooding and even the results of terrorist incidents.

By remaining focused, the nature of the fire risk itself can vary significantly - for instance is the risk being managed in order to protect: Life; Property/ Asset; Heritage; or the Environment? It is important that all those involved in the process of managing the fire risk have a common understanding of all the major issues.

Those involved include the designer, the building control body, the fire and rescue service, the insurer, and the owner/ occupier.

It is therefore critically important that the individuals or institutions that provide the educational base for those that manage the fire risk also have a common understanding of the issues involved.

These include academia, professional bodies (IFE), and the Integrated Personal Development System (IPDS - now forming the basis for knowledge development in the fire and rescue service).

However the most critical element throughout in ensuring that the nature of the fire risk and the processes for controlling the risk are fully understood is the individual.

What is also important is that this knowledge and understanding is underpinned and maintained by Continuous Professional Development.

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