Mediterranean fire engineers consider forming new IFE regional branch
Iain Hoey
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Cyprus hosts regional meeting of fire engineers
Several fire engineers and fire sector representatives gathered in Cyprus on 28 May 2025 to consider forming a Mediterranean branch of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).
According to the Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network, the meeting included individuals from the Cyprus fire safety community, including equipment manufacturers, fire consultants, passive fire installers and ex-firefighters.
The proposal has been under informal discussion for over a year, and attendees reported growing interest across Malta, Greece, Cyprus and Gibraltar.
A Mediterranean branch would follow the model used for the recently established Caribbean and South America branch of the IFE.
The aim is to provide a professional structure to support fire engineering development across countries in the Mediterranean region.
Support across Mediterranean countries grows
The organisers said that momentum for the idea had increased steadily in the past 12 months, resulting in a critical mass of support.
Cyprus, Malta, Greece and Gibraltar were highlighted as early backers of the proposal.
The group said other Mediterranean countries and territories, including those in North Africa and southern Europe, are welcome to participate.
The proposed branch would be open to all individuals and organisations involved in fire safety, from practising engineers to manufacturers and consultants.
Those involved intend the branch to serve as a hub for regional collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Branch activities to mirror existing regional models
If formed, the Mediterranean branch would follow the structure already used by other IFE regional branches.
According to the Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network, these branches typically organise conferences, technical webinars, workshops and study groups.
These events are usually open to all fire safety professionals, regardless of IFE membership status.
The focus is on providing accessible, continuing professional development opportunities.
The organisers said the Mediterranean branch would adopt this inclusive approach.
Planning underway for inaugural meeting in 2025
A preliminary meeting is being planned for later in 2025 to gauge wider interest and begin formalising the branch’s framework.
Those wishing to be involved are encouraged to contact Russ Timpson, who is helping coordinate initial outreach and engagement.
The organisers said the timing and format of the first formal gathering will depend on the level of interest across the region.
Further details are expected to be shared once a date is confirmed.
The intention is to begin with an interest group before progressing to formal IFE recognition.
Initiative follows launch of Caribbean and South America branch
The Caribbean and South America branch of the IFE was launched recently and is cited as a model for how regional collaboration can be structured.
That branch has offered a programme of public events and member-led initiatives since its inception.
According to the Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network, it has helped strengthen fire engineering ties across multiple countries.
The Mediterranean branch proposal aims to deliver similar outcomes across countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.
Its success will depend on local engagement and cross-border participation from fire professionals.
Mediterranean fire engineers consider forming new IFE regional branch: Summary
Fire engineers in Cyprus met on 28 May 2025 to discuss creating a Mediterranean branch of the Institution of Fire Engineers.
The meeting was reported by the Tall Buildings Fire Safety Network.
Participants included fire engineers, consultants, installers, ex-firefighters and equipment manufacturers.
The idea has been circulating for 12 months.
There is support from Cyprus, Malta, Greece and Gibraltar.
A Mediterranean branch would follow the Caribbean and South America model.
The proposed branch would offer events and CPD activities.
It would be open to all countries in the Mediterranean region.
A draft plan proposes a meeting later in 2025.
Russ Timpson is the point of contact for those interested.
The aim is to support professional development in fire engineering across the region.