The FDM qualification raising the bar for fire doorset installation competence
Iain Hoey
Share this content
FDM launches new Level 3 Diploma in installation of fire resistant doorsets
Qualification launched to certify fire door installation competence
FDM – Training & Development (FDM) has launched the GQA Level 3 Diploma in Installation of Fire Resistant Doorsets.
The vocational qualification certifies individuals as competent installers of fire resistant doorsets.
It was developed with awarding body GQA Qualifications and training provider National Skills Centre.
The diploma includes 11 core units, four optional units and 226 guided learning hours.
FDM said the qualification provides 159 more guided learning hours and up to 12 additional units compared to its closest competitor.
The company confirmed it forms part of its “super series” of Level 3 Diplomas, following the Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets qualification launched earlier in 2025.
Course content focuses on skills, knowledge and behaviour
The diploma covers the practical skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours required for fire door installation.
It provides guidance on meeting legislative standards and completing installation checks and records.
Assessment content focuses on planning and carrying out installation, conducting checks and maintaining continuing professional development.
Learners install six types of fire resistant door made of materials including timber, composite and steel.
This range of door types is unique to the qualification, according to FDM.
Each learner is assessed onsite to demonstrate practical competence and ongoing performance in a workplace setting.
Industry collaboration supports qualification delivery
Since its launch in February 2024, FDM said it has educated more than 1,200 professionals across the supply chain on fire door safety best practice.
The company has received industry recognition, winning Training Provider of the Year at the 2025 Fire & Security Matters Awards and Training Company of the Year at the 2024 National Fenestration Awards.
Nicola John, Managing Director of FDM – Training & Development, said: “We’re driving change with our robust and holistic training and assessments.
“We’re raising safety standards for everyone by bridging knowledge gaps for fire door installers.”
John added that the qualifications were designed by and for the construction industry to meet its fire door safety needs and support compliance.
Partners highlight industry-wide impact of new qualification
Martin Sadler, Qualifications and Product Development Manager at GQA Qualifications, said: “We’re continuing to shape the industry with the Level 3 Diploma in Fire Door Installation.
“We’re working to ensure the next generation of fire door installers are qualified, developing their ongoing competence journey, and demonstrating how they are meeting the requirements of the 2022 Building Safety Act.
“This qualification is a major step in that mission.”
Debra Green, Business Owner of National Skills Centre, noted: “With this qualification, we’re changing industry standards for installer competence.
“By being comprehensive and exploring both practical and legislative requirements of fire door installation, we are creating a safer, more knowledgeable construction workforce.”