INDUSTRY INITIATIVES

ASFP recognises the need for culture change throughout the built environment sector, and that to achieve that we all need to collaborate and encourage a more cohesive approach to competence. We support several industry groups including the Competence Steering Group’s Working Group 2, which is dedicated to defining competence frameworks for installers throughout the built environment in multiple, dedicated subgroups.
Where ASFP is able to collaborate in these areas, the outputs are integrated into passive fire protection activities within the ASFP Competence Framework. This brings together outputs from various sources, and allows us to provide a coherent response to differing requirements.

Firestopping Specialist Sector Group (FSSG)

One of six priority occupations identified by CSG’s WG2, ASFP has been leading the work on competence for firestopping specialists since September 2022. Formed from key industry stakeholders,   the group spent several months compiling a map of the activities carried out within firestopping and proposing benchmarks for competence in each. Consultation on FSSG’s report “Managing Competence for Firestopping Activities and Specialist Occupations” was concluded in Summer 2023 (see the consultation details www.asfp.org.uk/page/Consultation), and the group is now moving forward to implement plans to strengthen arrangements for the competence of firestopping specialists. 

This group has been highlighted for its proactive and structured approach, and its outputs have been used as a basis for guidance to future industry groups. 

Fire Resisting Ducts & Dampers 

Following the success of FSSG, ASFP has agreed to facilitate a second WG2 sub-group, focussing on installation of ventilation where there is a fire resisting duct or damper, whether for general ventilation or smoke control applications. This includes smoke leakage classified ducts, smoke control dampers, intumescent dampers, associated equipment such as fans, attenuators, and support structures. 
That group is currently being formed, with a mixture of ASFP members and other industry parties coming together to specify competence benchmarks and routes to competence in this area of passive fire protection.

Mandatory Technical Competence Requirements for Competent Persons Schemes

Competent Person Schemes exist to allow installing tradespeople to self-certify certain types of building work instead of getting building regulations approval. This system is designed for relatively small and regular building works within the scope of their particular schemes and does not apply to all work undertaken.
These schemes are underpinned by statements of understanding, knowledge, skills and behaviours, known as minimum or mandatory technical competencies (MTCs). Evidencing against these is designed to provide confidence that registered enterprises employ individuals able to meet the required industry standards.
A review of the content of these statements is currently being carried out by the Building Safety Regulator in conjunction with industry groups. It is recognised within that review that maintenance of compartmentation is essential to minimise risk. ASFP is working with the regulator to ensure that appropriate criteria relating to firestopping and compartmentation are reflected within the revised MTCs for both HRBs and other building types.