International Fire Engineering Registration Group

The International Fire Engineering Registration Group (IFERG) in Australia, particularly focusing on the National Fire Engineers Register managed by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Australia. The goal is to establish a system that recognizes and accredits fire engineers at various levels, including Chartered Engineers (CEng), Incorporated Engineers (IEng), and Engineering Technicians (EngTech). Here are some key points and potential global implications:

International Recognition via the Washington Accord:

• The IFE in Australia is part of the Engineering Council, which is a signatory of the Washington Accord.
• Qualifications achieved by IFE registrants are recognized internationally by other signatories of the Washington Accord, fostering global mobility and recognition.

Mutual Recognition Agreements:

• Mutual recognition agreements with other Washington Accord signatories, such as the agreement with HKIE, provide mechanisms for recognizing qualifications and experience.
• These agreements streamline the registration process, allowing for recognition without duplicative assessments.

Video Conferencing for Professional Review Interviews:

• The IFE has adopted video conferencing for professional review interviews, setting a model for good practice.
• This approach enhances accessibility, allowing interviews to take place across international borders, exemplified by the successful 2009 interview between the UK and Australia.

IFERG Australia Committee:

• The IFERG Australia Committee, comprising senior IFERG members, works collaboratively to support members across states and territories.
• The committee provides advice, mentoring, and assistance with applications, ensuring accuracy before submission to the IFE UK.

Benefits of IFERG Registration in Australia:

• Recognition of qualifications and experience, both in industry and operational services.
• Portability of qualifications internationally, facilitating career progression.
• Opportunities for accreditation as a ‘professional fire engineer,’ particularly at the CEng level.

State-specific Registration Requirements:

• The initiative addresses state-specific registration requirements, such as Queensland’s Board of Professional Engineers (BPEQ) assessment.
• It aligns with legislative requirements for Registered Professional Engineers of Queensland (RPEQ) and other state-based regulations.

Global Expansion and Collaboration:

• Australia is taking the lead in implementing a register of its fire engineering IFERG members, with the hope that other branches will follow suit.
• The long-term vision is to form a truly global International Register of Fire Engineers, facilitating global mobility for members.

Application Process:

• The application process involves completing a form with suitable referees and often requires a Professional Review Report.
• Ensuring accuracy in the submission process through the IFERG Australia Committee is emphasized to prevent delays in processing.

In summary, the outlined initiative not only benefits fire engineers in Australia but also lays the groundwork for a global network of accredited fire engineers, promoting international recognition and collaboration within the fire engineering profession.