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The Importance of third party accreditation in the fire sprinkler industry
Are you in the process of designing a new building or renovating an existing one? If so, ensuring that your fire sprinkler system is installed by qualified professionals is paramount to the safety and security of the occupants and the property itself. You’ll also want to ensure that third parties such as building control are satisfied that the system is fully compliant and can be signed off without issue.
This is where firas certification comes into play. firas, short for Fire Industry Association Registration Schemes, is a leading third-party certification scheme that assesses the competency of installers working in the fire protection industry. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into the comprehensive process of firas certification and explore why developers and architects should prioritise working with FIRAS-accredited installers.
When it comes to fire safety, there’s no room for compromise. Whether you are a developer working on a new construction project or an architect designing a state-of-the-art building, ensuring that your fire sprinkler systems are installed correctly is crucial.
What is firas Certification?
firas certification is a robust scheme that evaluates the competency of fire protection installers against industry standards and best practices. It provides assurance to clients that the installers have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to carry out fire protection installations effectively and safely. The scheme covers a wide range of fire protection disciplines, including fire sprinkler systems, fire doors, and fire stopping.
LifeSaver Engineering is proud to be a firas accredited company. You can find our listing on the firas register here.
Who are firas?
firas is a third-party certification scheme for the installation of fire protection systems, including fire sprinkler systems. Established in 1994, the scheme is overseen by Warringtonfire, which is part of the Element Group. The main goal of is to improve the quality and reliability of fire protection installations, ensuring they meet stringent industry standards and regulations.
Certification is based on a comprehensive assessment process that includes:
1. Evaluation of the Company: This involves checking the company’s background, financial stability, and previous work history.
2. Assessment of the Installation Teams: This includes verifying the qualifications, training, and experience of the installation teams.
3. Inspection of the Installation Work: Regular on-site inspections are carried out to ensure the quality and compliance of the installation work with industry standards and regulations.
What do firas have to do with Sprinkler Systems?
In the context of fire sprinkler systems, certification ensures that the installation is carried out by competent professionals who adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety. Here are some key aspects of what the scheme oversees:
1. Ensures Compliance with Regulations: certified installers are required to follow the relevant regulations and standards, such as BS EN 12845 and NFPA 13. This ensures that the fire sprinkler systems are designed and installed to effectively protect lives and property.
2. Quality Assurance: Through regular audits and inspections, the scheme ensures that the installation work is of the highest quality. This includes checking the materials used, the installation process, and the final commissioning of the system.
3. Competency Verification: the scheme verifies the competency of the installation teams through rigorous assessments and ongoing training requirements. This ensures that the installers are up-to-date with the latest industry developments and best practices.
4. Certification and Documentation: Upon successful completion of the installation, the scheme provides certification and documentation that can be used to demonstrate compliance with fire safety regulations and standards.
Why Developers and Architects Should Look for firas-Accredited Installers
Choosing a firas-accredited installer for your fire sprinkler system offers numerous benefits and peace of mind. Here are some compelling reasons why developers and architects should prioritise installers with their accreditation:
1. Enhanced Safety: The primary purpose of a fire sprinkler system is to protect lives and property. By choosing an accredited installer, you can be confident that the system will perform effectively in the event of a fire, providing enhanced safety for occupants.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Fire safety regulations and standards are complex and subject to frequent updates. Accredited installers have the expertise and knowledge to ensure that your fire sprinkler system complies with all relevant regulations, helping you avoid potential legal and financial repercussions.
3. Ensure Legitimate Components are used on your system: Many components for sprinkler systems are restricted. Vendors only sell them to certified installers. This includes blazemaster and the sprinkler heads themselves. If you’re buying from an uncertified installer, there’s a risk that the parts which they are selling are not the genuine article. They may be unaware of this themselves. Installing them runs the risk of leaks in your system, or a failure in operation in the event of a fire. Only certified installers can offer the assurance that their components are fit for purpose and have the correct approvals.
4. firas allow you to confirm that your system has been submitted for certification, not just your installer. Under some schemes: it’s possible for an installer to self-certify a system. Although the installer may be accredited, the accrediting body may not be aware of your system, which means they can neither certify it, nor check its quality. firas create contract numbers as well as certification numbers. If you want confirmation that your system has been registered with firas before it has been completed (and so will be certified at a later date) you can ask your firas installer for the firas contract number.
5. Quality Assurance: firas certification is a mark of quality and reliability. The rigorous assessment process ensures that only competent and experienced installers receive certification. This translates to high-quality installation work and long-term reliability of the fire sprinkler system.
6. Cost Savings: While the initial cost of hiring an accredited installer may be higher, it can lead to significant cost savings in the long run. Properly installed fire sprinkler systems are less likely to require costly repairs or replacements and can also result in lower insurance premiums.
7. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your fire sprinkler system has been installed by a firas-accredited professional provides peace of mind. You can be confident that the system will function as intended in the event of a fire, providing valuable protection for your investment.
The Comprehensive Process of firas Certification
1. Application
The first step in obtaining firas certification is to submit an application to the scheme. The application typically includes details of the company or individual seeking certification, along with evidence of relevant qualifications, experience, and insurance.
2. Assessment
Once the application is approved, the installer undergoes a rigorous assessment process conducted by the scheme’s assessors. This assessment involves evaluating the installer’s technical knowledge, practical skills, and adherence to relevant standards and regulations. The assessment may include written tests, on-site inspections, and interviews.
3. Training
In some cases, the scheme may require the installer to undergo additional training to address any gaps in knowledge or skills identified during the assessment process. This training ensures that the installer is fully equipped to carry out fire protection installations to the highest standards.
4. Certification
Upon successful completion of the assessment and any required training, the installer is awarded firas certification. This certification serves as proof of the installer’s competency and commitment to quality in fire protection installations.
5. Continued Assessment
Certification is not a one-time achievement. Certified installers are subject to regular assessments and audits to ensure that they continue to meet the required standards. This ongoing assessment helps to maintain the integrity and credibility of firas certification.
Why Choose firas-Accredited Installers?
1. Quality Assurance
Certification provides assurance that the installer has been rigorously assessed against industry standards and best practices. By choosing an accredited installer, developers and architects can be confident that the fire sprinkler system will be installed correctly and effectively.
2. Compliance with Regulations
Fire safety regulations are constantly evolving, and it can be challenging to stay up-to-date with the latest requirements. Accredited installers are well-versed in current regulations and standards, ensuring that the fire sprinkler system meets all legal requirements.
3. Peace of Mind
Working with an accredited installer offers peace of mind to developers and architects, knowing that the fire sprinkler system is in the hands of skilled professionals. This peace of mind is invaluable when it comes to the safety and protection of building occupants.
The Value of firas Certification for Developers and Architects
Developers and architects play a crucial role in ensuring that buildings are safe and compliant with fire safety regulations. By choosing accredited installers, they demonstrate a commitment to quality, safety, and professionalism in their projects. Certification not only benefits the end-users of the building but also enhances the reputation and credibility of developers and architects in the industry.
So what is the value of firas in 2024?
Considering the above, firas certification plays a crucial role in ensuring the competency and quality of fire protection installers, particularly in the context of fire sprinkler systems. Developers and architects should prioritize working with firas-accredited installers to benefit from the assurance of quality, compliance with regulations, and peace of mind that comes with firas certification. By choosing firas-accredited installers, you are making a commitment to safety and excellence in fire protection installations.
Remember, when it comes to fire safety, there is no room for compromise. Choose firas-certified installers for peace of mind and confidence in the fire protection systems of your buildings.
For more information on firas certification and its benefits, visit the firas website.
Stay safe, stay protected!
What next?
If you’re looking to learn more about how to get the best value from your sprinkler installer, visit our Sprinkler Academy for Developers and Regulators for more guidance and resources.
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