NFCC Learning materials
Evacuation alert systems eLearn package
This is the first module in a series from the National Fire Chiefs Council, which supports the tactics for incidents that involve modern construction methods.
Evacuation alert systems (EAS) can be used by a fire and rescue service, to assist with evacuating people from blocks of residential flats; this may be necessary due to the building’s fire protection failing.
By the end of this module you will know:
- The background and reasoning behind the need for such systems
- The key features and functions of Evacuation Alert Control and Indicating Equipment (EACIE)
- What to look for when attending a building fitted with an evacuation alert system
- Operational considerations for the use of EACIE as part of a managed evacuation strategy
Lithium ion batteries eLearn package
The number of fires involving lithium ion batteries in the UK is currently low. However, the number of batteries in circulation is increasing all the time, and they do pose a significant hazard.
The module introduces you to lithium ion battery technology. At the end of the module you should be able to:.
- Recognise lithium ion batteries and where they are most commonly found.
- Understand the basic structure of a lithium ion battery.
- Describe the possible hazards associated with a lithium ion battery.
- Describe suitable control measures.
- Appreciate that lithium ion technology is developing and fast paced.
Lifts intended for fire service use
Provides an overview of the different lifts installed overtime for fire service use during incidents, how to identify them and the differences between them
The module introduces you to lifts that are intended for fire and rescue service use. At the end of the module you should be able:
- Understand when a lift for the use of the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) is required in a building.
- Understand possible hazards and risks associated with lifts for the use of the FRS.
- Be aware of commonly found mechanisms in lifts.
- Be aware of the features associated with each type of lift provided for FRS use.
- Understand the differences between a ‘Firemen’s Lift’, a ‘Firefighting lift’ and a ‘Firefighter’s lift’.
- Understand the controls in a lift provided for FRS use and, how to operate the lift safely.
- Understand how to test a lift for the use of the FRS when carrying out familiarisation visits.
Evacuation
An example package of some of the operational considerations when evacuating high rise residential buildings – The example decision making model has been approved by the NFCC but may not align with local service policy, local policy and procedure should always be followed.
The module introduces you to evacuation. At the end of the module you should be able to:
- Understand the overarching principles relating to evacuation
- Understand possible hazards and risks associated with evacuations
- Understand approaches to planning
- Have an awareness of evacuation strategies, including initial considerations
- Understand the importance of, and approaches for, maintaining means of escape
- Understand the humanitarian impact of an evacuation
Safety concerns with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC)
This eLearning module gives an overview of an emerging risk Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). RAAC is a lightweight form of pre-cast concrete used primarily in, but not limited to, roof construction in the UK from the mid-1950s to the mid-1990s. RAAC panels have been linked with a risk of sudden full, or partial collapse.
With a risk of further potential structural failure in buildings where RAAC is present, and urgent remediation works being carried out across the UK, this eLearn has been published by the NFCC to support the Fire and Rescue Service:
- Understand the safety concerns associated with the presence of RAAC in buildings and
- Take appropriate action to address considerations for the fire risk assessment and operational response to an incident at a building where RAAC is present or suspected.
Milan Fire Case Study
This eLearning module gives an overview of the incident at the Torre dei Morro residential high rise building in Milan on 29th August 2021.
The overall aim is to share information gained from a visit to Milan conducted by National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) personnel, and to highlight the learning that was identified.