Siemens introduces new fire safety training wall in Manchester
Iain Hoey
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Siemens expands hands-on training for fire safety engineers in the UK
Siemens has introduced a practical ‘training wall’ at its Manchester facility as part of ongoing investment in its partner training programme.
According to Siemens, the installation is designed to give engineers hands-on experience with its fire safety and building management systems.
The company said the wall includes Cerberus PRO and Cerberus FIT panels, FDA241 and FDA262 aspirating smoke detectors, sounders, two fire dampers with Siemens actuators, a PXC4 automation station, a Connect Box IoT unit and a Desigo optic embedded device.
Siemens confirmed that these components are connected to demonstrate how the systems integrate with each other and the wider Siemens Building X digital platform.
Siemens trainer highlights need for practical learning
Siemens Fire Product Trainer Justin Leeks, who was appointed in 2023, said the new setup was created to support deeper learning through experience.
Leeks said: “Theory is important but it only goes so far.
“I have been a fire systems engineer myself so understand how getting your hands dirty by being ‘under the hood’ and seeing how these systems operate is the best way of learning.
“This knowledge can then be taken into the field by engineers who understand the specifics of the systems and how to best manage installation, commissioning and maintenance.”
Leeks added: “One of the benefits of the systems is that a lot of the work can be done in advance, pre-configuring a whole site and thereby offering significant savings in on-site installation and commissioning time.
“I’d like to thank Advanced Air and Detector Testers for supplying some of the equipment for the wall – it’s great to see that other companies also recognise the value of training the next generation.”
Training format combines e-learning and in-person instruction
Siemens explained that the training is delivered using a two-part structure.
The company stated that the programme begins with e-learning to cover basic principles, followed by face-to-face sessions for more in-depth technical content.
It noted that the wall was designed with a modular approach so that it can be updated as new products are introduced to the Siemens portfolio.
According to Siemens, this aligns with its wider product strategy of supporting ongoing integration and flexibility.
UK leadership highlights industry relevance
Rob Yates, Siemens Head of Building Products Fire Safety in the UK and Ireland, said the training programme is part of the company’s response to the sector’s personnel needs.
Yates said: “Effective training programmes are vital to the future of the fire safety industry.
“Much is spoken of the skills shortage which demonstrates all too clearly why it is more important than ever that we invest in the training of those that do choose to go into fire safety engineering.
“Hopefully, in doing so, not only do we develop their skills but we also potentially encourage others to consider it as a career option.”
Siemens introduces new fire safety training wall in Manchester: Summary
Siemens has added a practical ‘training wall’ to its Manchester training centre.
The company said the wall includes connected fire safety and building systems hardware.
The equipment features Cerberus PRO and FIT panels, ASD range detectors, and BMS devices.
Siemens stated that the wall supports its Building X platform integration approach.
Justin Leeks, Siemens Fire Product Trainer, emphasised the value of hands-on experience.
Leeks said real-world interaction enhances engineers’ understanding of installation and maintenance.
He credited external suppliers for supporting the setup with additional equipment.
Training combines online foundational content with classroom-based technical sessions.
The modular wall design allows Siemens to update the wall as new products are developed.
Rob Yates, Siemens UK and Ireland Head of Fire Safety, commented on the sector’s skills gap.
Yates said the training investment supports both competence and industry engagement.