The Fire Standards Board (FSB) has announced the commencement of the consultation for the latest Fire Standard, primarily focusing on Internal Governance and Assurance in fire and rescue services.

This initiative is a step towards completing the initial suite of Fire Standards, which aims at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of fire services.

Progressing towards completing the Fire Standards suite

The current standard under consultation, titled ‘Internal Governance and Assurance’, is integral to the FSB’s effort to finalise its initial series of standards for fire and rescue services.

This standard, alongside the forthcoming ‘Procurement and Asset Management Fire Standard’, plays a crucial role in “enabling” activities within these services.

Despite their less direct impact on public service delivery, these standards are essential for supporting the day-to-day operations of the services.

Inclusive development process

The development of these standards has been a collaborative effort involving subject matter experts and representatives from various services.

The FSB has incorporated numerous suggestions regarding the content and naming of these standards.

To further refine these standards, the FSB is conducting a consultation, inviting opinions through a survey that includes additional questions to gather broader views.

Wide-ranging participation encouraged

The FSB is encouraging responses from all stakeholders, emphasising the importance of input from all fire and rescue services, as they are directly impacted by these standards.

The consultation also welcomes individual opinions, as well as feedback from colleagues in Devolved Administrations, partners, and stakeholders in the wider fire and rescue sector.

The deadline for the consultation has been set for 12:00hrs on Monday, 18th December 2023​​.

Ensuring quality and relevance

Responses to the consultation will significantly contribute to shaping the final versions of the standards.

An external quality assurance process will be conducted before their official launch and publication, ensuring that the standards meet the required criteria and effectively address the needs of fire and rescue services​​.

Role of the Fire Standards Board

The Fire Standards Board plays a pivotal role in identifying, organising, developing, and maintaining professional standards for fire and rescue services in England.

This body ensures that the standards are up-to-date and relevant, reflecting the evolving requirements of fire and rescue operations​​.

IFSJ Comment

The initiation of the consultation for the new Fire Standard is a significant milestone in the evolution of fire and rescue services in England.

This process demonstrates the Fire Standards Board’s commitment to ensuring that the fire services operate with the highest levels of governance and assurance.

By involving a wide range of stakeholders in the development process, the FSB ensures that the standards are comprehensive, relevant, and reflective of the current needs of fire and rescue services.

The feedback obtained through this consultation will be crucial in refining the standards, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness and efficiency of fire and rescue operations.

This initiative underscores the importance of continuous improvement and adaptation in emergency services to meet the demands of modern society.