In the fire service, we have advanced certifications and credentialing for almost every niche within the industry. There is the beginning required certifications of, EMT and firefighter. Progressing on to advanced level training of paramedic or officer level certifications. Then there is specialty training on truck operations, technical rescue, hazardous materials, and ARFF. Beyond these, at the highest levels there is credentialing through organizations such as the Center for Public Safety Excellence. The world of aviation firefighting is no different. In this niche industry we have the basic ARFF certification, we have ARFF specific officer certifications, and specialty training programs. We have credentialing as an A.M.F. through the ARFFWG and AAAE. The ARFF training and educational path is further clarified through the ARFF Professional Development Framework Manual.
When it comes to the area of fire prevention, especially in aviation, there is no established path or further specialized training. The same requirements for a fire inspector for the municipal structural department is all that is required for the airport and ARFF department. However, the environment, challenges, hazards, systems, processes, and code applications can be very different. Fire prevention in the ARFF environment is a specialized field and should require an advanced (or additional) level of training to ensure basic competence and understanding of the hazards and code applications that will apply.
I have created a draft program outline. The program is called the Aviation Fire Prevention Credentialing Program. What follows is a brief outline of the program. The complete program and proposed curriculum can be downloaded here.
The program is divided into two credentials -- Aviation Fire Inspector (AFI), and the Aviation Fire Prevention Officer (AFPO). The point-of-entry for this program is certification (State/IFSAC/ICC/ProBoard) as a Fire Inspector I, Fire Inspector II, and three years of experience in fire prevention or ARFF.
The first level of credentialing is the Aviation Fire Inspector (AFI).
AFI credential program prerequisites:
- Certified as Fire Inspector I/II (State/IFSAC/ICC/ProBoard)
- Three years of experience in fire prevention or ARFF
- Submit application
- Application is reviewed and approved
- Candidate must register for and attend the 24 hour ‘Aviation Fire Inspector Course’
- Pass the class final exam with at least an 75%
- Credential awarded
AFPO credential program prerequisites:
- Successful completion of AFI credential.
- Minimum of Fire Officer 1 certification (Fire Officer 2 recommended)
- Minimum of 5 years experience in ARFF and/or fire prevention.
- Submit application
- Application is reviewed and approved
- Completion of 24 hour ‘Aviation Fire Prevention Officer Course’
- Pass the class final exam with at least an 75%
- Completion and presentation of an applied research paper (management, case study, proposal, project)
- Credential awarded
What are your thoughts? Is it time for a credentialing program? Do you see a need for this type of training, credentialing process? I am looking for your feedback. Please comment below, or contact me directly at, thecodecoach@gmail.com.
