Frequently Asked Questions
Things you need to know about the IFSM may be found on this page.
Membership of the Institute
Q. How do I apply for membership of the institute?
Membership information is detailed in the Institute’s ‘Rules and Regulations for Entry to Grades of Membership’ document which should be read PRIOR to submitting your application form.
Application forms can be viewed>>here
Q. What grades of membership can I apply for?
Prior to offering membership the Membership committee of the Institute will assess every applicant based on a number of criteria but especially:
- The educational and academic qualifications relevant to the objectives of the Institute
- Vocational qualifications and training and
- Experience
Grades are explained in detail in the ‘Rules and Regulations for Entry to Grades of Membership’ document and are noted on the application form. It is vital that applicants ensure that their application is fully supported by submission of appropriate information and documentation.
The Rules and Regulations for Entry to Grades of Membership document can be viewed>> here
Q. How long will it take after I send you my application form before I know that my application has been successful?
All applications will be processed as quickly as possible by the Membership Committee. Council should be informed of the list of current applicants and recommendations of the Membership Committee in each case. Each applicant will be informed of the decision of Council by the Chair of the Membership Committee or the Secretary General, in writing, within one calendar month of the decision being made.
In the case of applicants for the Mature Candidate Route, the Secretary General will liaise with the Membership Committee Chairman on how best to proceed and the applicant will be kept informed.
The Rules and Regulations for Entry to Grades of Membership document can be viewed>> here
Q. What information do I need to send with my application?
Details outlining what should be included (CV's etc.) are shown on the application form
Q. Do I need to send payment with my application?
Yes, up to date fees are shown on the application form.
Risk Assessors Register
Q. Why has the Institute changed the criteria and name of its risk assessors register to the ‘Nationally Accredited Fire Risk Assessors Register’ (NAFRAR)?
The Institute has decided that the time is right to move to a more professional and competency based fire risk assessors register. There is a need to have one which contains the names of fire risk assessors who are deemed competent, having been through a process which is accredited by an independent nationally recognised accreditation body to provide third party type accreditation / certification, preferably by UKAS.
Q. Can I join the NAFRAR?
Yes. The application form and guidance document, including details of the register, are contained on the Institutes website risk assessors register page. Don’t forget to read the guidance document fully before applying as this will give you all the information you need to be a successful applicant.
Q. Do I have to be a member of the Institute to apply for the NAFRAR?
Yes. You need to be a member in a corporate grade i.e. Fellow, Member, Associate or honorary Member.
Q. What will happen to the existing register?
This will continue until December 2013 when it will close and be removed from the website. By that time it is hoped that all those on the current register will have ‘migrated’ to the NAFRAR. Those registrants who do not ‘migrate’ by then will no longer be registered.isting register?
Q. How will both registers be recorded on the website until the initial register closes?
Both registers will run in parallel on the website. They will have different explanations in their introductions on the website and those registrants who move over to the NAFRAR will have their details kept on both registers.
Course Accreditation
Q. Can I accredit my fire safety courses?
Yes, the Institute operates a course accreditation scheme. Full details can be viewed>> here
Miscellaneous
Q I would like to get involved with the Institute, how do I go about it?
We are always looking for members to get involved. If you think you can help then please use the contact us form.
Q. I need to change my personal contact details, what is the best way to do this?
Please use the 'change of details' >> form
Q. There is a problem with this web site who do I contact?
Please use the 'contact us' form.
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