UK fire services review road traffic collision instructor training amid evolving vehicle technology


Iain Hoey
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Training review launched for Road Traffic Collision Instructors
SFJ Awards, in collaboration with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation, has launched a consultation to review Road Traffic Collision Instructor training for UK fire and rescue services.
The review has been prompted by advancements in vehicle technology, including the rise of electric vehicles, which have introduced new challenges for emergency responders.
The proposed changes include updates to course content to align with current safety guidelines and best practices for extrication and trauma management.
Proposed revalidation qualification for instructors
As part of the review, a revalidation qualification has been proposed to support Road Traffic Collision Instructors in maintaining their competencies over time.
Neil Pedersen, CEO at International Road Rescue and Trauma Consultancy Ltd, said: “The role of a Road Traffic Collision Instructor within fire and rescue requires ongoing development to remain aligned with evolving legislation, industry standards, and best practices.”
He added that the introduction of a revalidation qualification would support ongoing professional development: “This will help standardise ongoing professional development and reinforce the importance of continuous learning.”
Consultation open for sector feedback
The working group overseeing the review has conducted a five-month evaluation of the SFJ Awards Level 3 Award in Road Traffic Collision Instruction.
The consultation phase is now open for stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed updates.
David Higham, Managing Director of SFJ Awards, said: “As an awarding body, it is our responsibility to review qualifications on a regular basis in collaboration with employers to ensure that they continue to serve their needs and the needs of the public.”
He stated that stakeholder input would help ensure the revised qualification remains aligned with sector needs and current best practices.
Deadline for consultation responses
Stakeholders have until 3 March to submit feedback on the proposed changes to the Road Traffic Collision Instructor training qualification.
SFJ Awards has invited responses from fire and rescue professionals and other relevant stakeholders.
Further details on the consultation can be found at: www.sfjawards.com/consultation-now-open-for-road-traffic-collision-instruction-qualification
UK fire services review road traffic collision instructor training amid evolving vehicle technology: Summary
SFJ Awards, in partnership with NFCC and the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation, has launched a review of Road Traffic Collision Instructor training in the UK fire and rescue services.
The review aims to update course content in response to evolving vehicle technology and safety standards.
A key proposal is the introduction of a revalidation qualification to support instructors in maintaining their competencies.
The consultation, which is open until 3 March, seeks stakeholder feedback to ensure the revised qualification aligns with sector needs.
Fire and rescue professionals are encouraged to participate in the consultation via the SFJ Awards website.