BAFSA launches online course for fire sprinkler safety
Iain Hoey
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UK course for owners and occupiers
The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) has announced a new free online course on fire sprinkler systems.
According to BAFSA, the Owners and Occupiers Guide to Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems has been developed to help non-specialists understand their responsibilities under UK law.
The association stated that the course is aimed at people responsible for buildings where sprinklers are fitted. It added that the programme is CPD-accredited and designed to support compliance and safety.
The course has been structured into six modules that take around 90 minutes to complete in total. A short multiple-choice test is required to gain certification.
BAFSA explained that this initiative forms part of its ongoing skills and development work across the fire sector.
Topics covered in the programme
BAFSA reported that the online course covers a wide range of areas linked to fire sprinkler systems.
The association said that this includes the purpose and function of sprinklers, the testing and inspection requirements, and the operation of pumps and related components.
It added that the modules also examine how to recognise hazards, follow standards and regulations, and manage shut downs and emergency events.
The association confirmed that the course further outlines how to respond to activations, including what actions must follow once a system has operated.
According to BAFSA, responsibilities of owners and occupiers are clearly defined throughout the content.
Certification and structure
The organisation explained that the course is designed for self-paced learning.
It stated that the content has been divided into six modules that together provide around 90 minutes of study.
BAFSA confirmed that to obtain a CPD Service-endorsed certificate, learners must complete all modules and pass a short multiple-choice assessment.
The association said that this approach ensures both flexibility and accountability for those taking part.
Focus on compliance and safety
BAFSA noted that the course emphasises legal obligations for building owners.
The association stated that UK law places duties on those who fail to maintain fire safety equipment.
It added that the training is intended to reduce the risk of non-compliance by offering accessible information and guidance.
BAFSA commented that this initiative aligns with its wider efforts to strengthen professional knowledge in the fire protection sector.
Statement from BAFSA
Ruth Oliver, BAFSA’s head of skills and development, said: “Once a fire sprinkler system is handed over to its owners the responsibility for the equipment will rest with them and the UK legislative system imposes significant liabilities on those who fail to maintain fire safety equipment intended for the protection of life from fire.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This course is relevant for professionals who work with building owners and occupiers on fire safety responsibilities.
It highlights the importance of ensuring that installed fire sprinkler systems are maintained according to UK standards and regulations.
It provides an additional resource for fire risk assessors, facilities managers, and safety officers seeking to support compliance across sites.
It also reflects BAFSA’s ongoing role in promoting awareness of legislative obligations within the fire safety industry.
BAFSA launches online course for fire sprinkler safety: Summary
BAFSA has launched a free online course for owners and occupiers of buildings with fire sprinkler systems.
The programme is CPD-accredited and divided into six modules.
The content takes around 90 minutes to complete in total.
Participants must complete all modules and pass a multiple-choice test to obtain certification.
The course covers functions, testing, inspections, pumps, hazards, regulations, shut downs, emergency actions, and responsibilities.
It has been designed for self-paced learning.
BAFSA stated that the course supports compliance with UK legislation.
The initiative forms part of the association’s broader skills and development work.