Fire and security card scheme hits milestone

2000 operatives have now been approved to carry the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) fire and security card. Andrew Vick of Wessex Group, pictured centre, was presented with his card in a ceremony to mark the milestone.

The ECS is affiliated to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) and is administered by the JIB. It is designed to meet the Major Contractors Group’s requirement that all on-site personnel carry a recognised health and safety skills competence card.

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) and British Fire Protection Systems Association (BFPSA) signed up to the ECS in March 2004 to increase the levels of health and safety and technical competence in their sector. As a consequence, two new disciplines (emergency and security systems; and fire detection and alarm systems) were added to the ECS. Terry Martiny, marketing manager at the BFPSA said at the ceremony: “We looked closely at putting our own scheme together for construction. We decided to go along with the ECS and it’s something we’ve not regretted.”

JIB chair Michael Latham, above right, added: “The addition of these two new disciplines is indicative of the construction industry answering the Government’s call to work together to increase health and safety and competence levels. The availability of the fire and security card is a definite step forward.”

ECA president Tony Morgan (above left) congratulated the trade associations for working together despite the competitive aspects that exist in the industry: “Today is an example of what can happen when we work together. The initiative shows collaboration between the BFPSA and BSIA. They took a large step when deciding to join with the ECA and JIB…but they had the vision to look beyond the short-term. It is an example of what can be achieved when we focus our energy and have a real will to achieve.”