New field training launched for distributed energy resource safety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced the launch of the second phase of its Distributed Energy Resources Safety Training (DERST) initiative.

According to NFPA, this phase introduces field familiarisation training for firefighters dealing with distributed energy resources (DER), including battery energy storage systems and solar farms.

The programme is being delivered in partnership with Vector Solutions and the US Department of Energy, with coordination from the North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD).

The new content builds on an earlier training series that focused on classroom-based instruction and interactive simulations of battery and electric vehicle fire scenarios.

Training supports on-site response to DER incidents

The second phase provides a practical component to supplement previous theoretical modules.

The training includes field exercises designed to help fire departments apply previously learned concepts during walkthroughs at target hazard locations.

Installations covered include lithium-ion battery sites, solar panel farms, energy storage facilities and electric vehicle storage areas.

Andrew Klock, senior manager of education and development at NFPA, said: “As more distributed energy resources are deployed nationwide, the fire service needs to be properly prepared to respond to them safely and effectively.”

Interactive online tools included in new materials

To assist with the new training, an online guide offers an interactive experience to help sharpen logistical and reasoning skills in live response environments.

The platform provides access to scenario training and verbal field exercises, which are designed for use during on-scene familiarisation drills.

Klock added: “Drawing on their knowledge obtained from prerequisite online and classroom training and simulation exercises, firefighters can now face virtual hazard scenarios as a team on their smart devices, while performing a field familiarization evolution of a DER facility.”

Training access and tracking provided through dedicated portal

Vector Solutions has released a DER Custom Activity through its TargetSolutions training management system.

This allows for the assignment, tracking and reporting of DER training by participating departments using the platform.

NFPA confirmed that access to the training materials is available at no cost to members of the fire and responder community through the NAFTD.

The training can be accessed via the official programme website at www.DERSTFG.org.

NFPA expands DER training for fire departments across the United States: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in partnership with Vector Solutions and the US Department of Energy, has launched a new phase of its Distributed Energy Resources Safety Training (DERST).

The training is coordinated with the North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD) and introduces field-based exercises focused on distributed energy resources (DER).

These exercises support fire departments in responding to incidents involving installations such as battery storage systems, solar farms and electric vehicle storage areas.

The programme includes an online interactive guide designed to support verbal field exercises and scenario-based learning.

Access to the training is free for the fire and responder community and available via the NAFTD website.

Vector Solutions has also developed a DER Custom Activity on its TargetSolutions platform to facilitate assignment and progress tracking.