Promat introduces hands-on passive fire protection training for broader workforce competency
Iain Hoey
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Promat launches expanded training for internal teams
As reported by Promat, the company has introduced practical training initiatives for its customer service, marketing, and research and development teams to improve their understanding of passive fire protection systems.
Previously focused on specification, sales, and technical staff, this training is designed to provide a hands-on understanding of tasks such as measuring, cutting, and correctly installing fire protection boards in various applications.
The company aims to elevate competency standards by involving employees in traditionally non-technical roles.
This approach supports Promat’s wider efforts to ensure consistency and precision across manufacturing, supply, and installation processes.
Focus on practical and theoretical training
The training programme, overseen by Promat’s Training Centre Manager Simon Watkins and Construction Support Manager Phil Chapman, includes a combination of theory and practical sessions.
The theoretical component covers the properties of passive fire protection boards, the levels of fire resistance achievable, various applications of the boards, and the importance of precise installation.
The practical tasks involve activities such as boxing in steel columns, protecting structural beams, and building partition walls.
Participants are required to ensure accurate measurements and proper installation to meet safety standards.
Promat prioritises competency through in-house training
Promat’s existing specification, sales, and technical teams are already expected to undertake the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 3 training in Passive Fire Protection through the Association of Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP).
By introducing this practical training to additional teams, Promat reinforces its commitment to achieving industry-leading competency.
The training also leverages the company’s purpose-built training centre in Bristol, which is already used to train customers in the correct specification and application of its products.
Promat Marketing Executive Jen Hyland said: “Practical training is a really valuable way to get an in-depth understanding of the process from top to bottom.
“It ensures all interactions we have are fully informed.”
Training offered to customers and internal staff
The training centre also accommodates Promat’s customers, offering them the same opportunities to learn about fire protection systems.
Customers and employees alike are trained to understand how accuracy at all stages, from cutting boards to ensuring there are no gaps during installation, impacts overall fire safety.
Hyland highlighted the value of this initiative: “Promat is committed to demonstrating competency across the company and this is one of several in-house initiatives that have been introduced to support that.”
Promat introduces hands-on passive fire protection training for broader workforce competency: Summary
Promat has expanded its practical training programme to include customer service, marketing, and research and development teams, providing them with hands-on experience in installing passive fire protection systems.
The training combines theoretical knowledge with practical tasks such as protecting structural beams and constructing partition walls, ensuring participants develop a comprehensive understanding of installation accuracy.
The programme, led by Simon Watkins and Phil Chapman, supports Promat’s broader goal of elevating competency across its workforce.
It is conducted at the company’s Bristol training centre, which is also open to customers.
Promat’s existing technical staff are required to undertake IFE Level 3 training through the ASFP, and this expanded initiative reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining high standards in passive fire protection.
