1-877-322-7911info@firewiseconsulting.com
My Courses
FireWise Consulting & Learning Academy
Q&A: NFPA 1030 Updates

Q&A: NFPA 1030 Updates

Apr 29, 2025

NFPA 1030 Updates

 

The recent updates to the Emergency Response and Responder Safety Consolidation Plan (ERRS) to introduce the new NFPA 1030 standard is the cause for many questions. Staying informed about the latest updates and standards is essential for maintaining the high-quality practices that contribute to the well-being of the communities that we serve. In this Q&A, we dive into key details about the updates to the newly introduced NFPA 1030. What is NFPA 1030?

NFPA 1030 is the Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Prevention Program Positions. It provides minimum core and mission-specific Job Performance Requirements (JPRs) for individuals in these roles. This standard is crucial for fire service personnel and those involved in their training, hiring, or evaluation.

 

How long did this consolidation take to complete?

Targeted to be completed by 2025, it is ahead of schedule. This consolidation project was approved and supported by the NFPA Standards Council in April 2019.

 

What is involved in the consolidation?

It aims to enhance the experience of developing Emergency Response and responder Safety (ERRS) standards and create better efficiencies for the Technical Committee (TC) members. It involves consolidating various ERRS standards, guides, and best practices over a five-year period.

 

What are the changes in NFPA 1030?

The 2024 edition includes the following changes:

      • Key terms were unified into single definitions.
      • Fire marshal skills were edited and expanded to better reflect the activities of a fire marshal.
      • Development of the position of first responder inspector, impacting position titles in NFPA 1031 chapters.
      • Consolidation of plan examiner levels into a single position.
      • Revisions to NFPA 1035 chapters to promote inclusivity and cultural competence in prevention roles, particularly in youth fire setting intervention.
      • Updates to incorporate new technologies like social media platforms and other electronic communications.

 

How will the changes impact the training that FireWise provides?

FireWise will ensure that our course materials align with chapter numbers in the new standards. There are no changes to the JPRs themselves.

 

What challenges are being addressed within the new standard?

It addresses various concerns that have been expressed, including:

      • Lack of knowledge about the activities of different TCs.
      • Conflicting information among the different standards.
      • Having to purchase multiple standards to get a full understanding of a topic.
      • Difficulties in planning and scheduling for TC members and representative groups.
      • Increasing travel costs.
      • Limited availability of meeting facilities.

For a full list, visit the NFPA website and their Emergency Response and Responder Safety Consolidation Project section.

 

How can I access information on NFPA 1030 and the consolidation process?

For detailed information on NFPA 1030 and the consolidation process, visit NFPA’s website.

 

Introducing Our NFPA 1030 First Responder Inspector Course!

We are excited to announce the launch of our First Responder Inspector Course as part of the new 2024 NFPA 1030: Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Prevention Program Positions.

The NFPA 1030 standard integrates the roles of Fire Inspector I and Fire Inspector II (previously identified in NFPA 1031) into First Responder Inspector and Fire Inspector.

This course provides you with the knowledge and skills required to perform Company Inspections but also prepares you to attain First Responder Fire Inspector certification if desired.

Register now for our First Responder Inspection Course.

Watch this short video for an explanation on the new NFPA 1030 Standard.

Register now for our Fire Inspector Course.

How to Become a Fire Prevention Officer

How to Become a Fire Prevention Officer

Mar 5, 2024

How to Become a Fire Prevention Officer:  Fire prevention officers and fire inspectors play a key role in ensuring fire and life safety. This position includes tasks such as inspecting buildings to ensure compliance with fire prevention regulations, investigating fires to determine the origin and cause, and developing educational programs for property owners, fire prevention officials, and community members. Starting your career as a fire prevention officer involves a strategic approach to building your skills and attaining the necessary qualifications. Before starting your journey, it’s essential to gain an understanding of the responsibilities that this role will require of you and the path to achieving success.

Where to Begin

Understanding the role of a fire prevention officer or fire inspector is the first step toward starting down this career path. You will require knowledge of building construction and active fire protection systems like fire alarms and sprinkler systems. You will also require knowledge of passive fire prevention systems like fire separations and fire-rated construction assemblies. Fire prevention officers also need a working knowledge of the relevant acts, codes, and standards governing fire prevention in their jurisdictional area.

Fire inspectors are often involved with fire investigation to determine the origin and cause of a fire. Determining the cause of the fire may prevent future fires from occurring. Having introductory knowledge of fire investigation can be gained online and this knowledge can enhance your resume when applying for positions.

If your desire is to transition from a firefighting role to fire prevention, participating in a company inspection program is a great learning opportunity. It will help you gain the basic skills required to identify and eliminate potential fire hazards before they become life-threatening.

Your career journey from a firefighter to a fire inspector often starts with foundational courses. At FireWise, we recommend starting with our Company Inspection Program. This 8-hour online course provides a cost-effective introduction to fire inspections and a glimpse into the daily responsibilities of a Fire Prevention Officer.

Fire Inspector and Investigator Programs

Once you’ve completed the Company Inspection Program and find yourself looking to expand your knowledge, consider enrolling in Fire Inspector and Fire Investigator programs. These programs will offer you the behind-the-scenes experience to grow professionally and further develop your knowledge and skills to review and process plans, conduct complex inspections, respond to complaints, and make informed recommendations based on the codes you enforce.

Gaining Practical Experience

While courses provide valuable theoretical knowledge, practical experience is equally important. Reach out to your local fire department to explore opportunities for involvement. Volunteer roles, especially in departments with volunteer or paid-on-call positions, can offer hands-on experience and a chance to apply your knowledge in real-life scenarios.

Preferred Experience

The field of fire prevention is competitive, so consider the following to gain the preferred experience and qualifications:

  1. Technical Skills

Become skilled in the operation of Microsoft Office programs and gain a working knowledge of data-based systems. Previous fire prevention, fire investigation or code experience is also helpful.

  1. Communication Skills

Develop confidence and experience in public speaking, an important part of educating the community on fire safety.

  1. Community Involvement

Engage with your community and seek volunteer experiences to improve your skills and build rapport.

  1. Specialized Knowledge

Gain knowledge of building construction, wiring, heating systems, mechanical systems, industrial processes including chemical reactions, and the dangers of flammable and combustible materials and liquids.

Preferred Qualifications

Additional qualifications that will be required include:

Educational Background

While not mandatory, completing a post-secondary program in Fire Protection Technology or Fire Engineering can set you apart.

Life Safety Educator Certification

Consider obtaining the Fire and Life Safety Educator 1 certification to NFPA 1035 or an Adult Education Diploma or Teaching Certificate.

Driver’s Abstract

Ensure a current Driver’s Abstract indicative of responsible operation accompanies your application.

To further improve your qualifications, FireWise has built the following courses. Developed by fire chiefs and fire professionals, these courses are worth considering as they provide real-life examples, and the content is based on in-the-field experiences:

Fire Inspector Certification

FireWise offers a Fire Inspector l, Fire Inspector ll and a Fire Inspector I & II Combined course certified to the NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector Standard.

Fire Origin and Cause Certification

FireWise offers a Fire Investigation Origin & Cause Level I and Level II course certified to the NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Standard, which is available entirely online.

Summary

You can confidently step into this fulfilling role by starting with foundational courses, building on your knowledge with advanced programs, and gaining practical experience. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to send us an email at training@firewiseconsulting.com.