Fire control command qualification developed with major UK fire and rescue services
Iain Hoey
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New qualification launched to support fire control command
A new qualification has been launched to enhance command capability in UK fire control rooms.
The Level 3 Certificate in Fire Control Command has been developed by SFJ Awards, a qualifications specialist for the emergency services sector.
According to SFJ Awards, the qualification aligns with the National Operational Guidance (NOG), which now includes the role of Fire Control Commander.
The company said the new qualification was created with input from fire and rescue services including London Fire Brigade, South Wales, Surrey and Humberside, as well as training providers K Lamb and Peter Stanley.
The qualification aims to provide a recognised framework for developing leadership skills within fire control environments.
Qualification aligns with National Operational Guidance
London Fire Brigade’s Sarah Cuthbert, who chairs the Mobilising Officers Group involved in its development, explained the reason for extending incident command to control rooms.
Sarah Cuthbert, Chair of the Mobilising Officers Group, said: “The incident command system – traditionally applied at operational, tactical, and strategic levels – has now been extended to the fire control room to ensure a robust and consistent command structure across all areas of fire and rescue operations.
“It has been developed to ensure the expansion and upskilling of the control room workforce to align with incident command.”
SFJ Awards said the qualification reflects the evolution of incident command responsibilities and the need for a unified approach across operational and control functions.
The qualification’s design focuses on competence-based learning and assessment.
SFJ Awards outlines purpose of the new certificate
SFJ Awards Managing Director David Higham said the qualification will play an important role in workforce development.
David Higham, Managing Director of SFJ Awards, said: “Training and assessment for fire control command is now a requirement under the National Operational Guidance framework.
“This qualification therefore aims to support the developmental competence of those in command roles within fire control and ensure that they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to lead effectively and maintain public safety during both routine and complex scenarios.
“Developed in collaboration with fire and rescue services and training providers, it will provide the foundation for expanding the capability of services in fire control command.”
The Level 3 Certificate in Fire Control Command is designed for Watch and Crew Managers responsible for managing the fire control function.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The new Level 3 Certificate in Fire Control Command is relevant to fire service managers, training officers and incident commanders.
It introduces a structured qualification pathway for Watch and Crew Managers in control rooms, formalising their leadership and decision-making responsibilities.
The qualification’s alignment with the National Operational Guidance ensures that command standards remain consistent between operational crews and control room staff.
Training providers and professional development leads in fire and rescue services may find the programme relevant when reviewing internal command training and assessment processes.