The Fire Detection Installers Association was established in November 1998 by a group of fire detection contractors with the objective of uplifting standards, information and quality of work within the industry.
Seven years in existence has seen an improvement of professionalism in the industry.
Interfacing with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has led to introduction and application of standards for both fire detection and gas extinguishing markets.
Fire detection training courses for basic detection and design courses to comply with SANS 10139 have been conducted successfully for many years with hundreds of candidates passing through.
Membership has grown beyond 60 companies all agreeing to comply with a code of conduct.
A web page is established and an annually rotating committee meets regularly to discuss industry issues.
Companies are now graded into three categories for assessment of contractors and a newsletter is distributed regularly to members.
The success of the organisation is proven with an increasing amount of enquiries and tenders specifying the use of FDIA members only. Many end-users feel more comfortable dealing with contractors who are prepared to put their weight behind the Association in upliftment of standards.
The FDIA has recently joined the newly formed Fire Confederation of Southern Africa, putting their support behind a unified fire industry.
A gas division is provided in the FDIA to take care of requirements of companies providing services in the Gas Suppression sector of the industry.
The road forward looks bright with a continued effort to uplift standards. Discussions are underway with the South African Qualification Certification Committee (SAQCC) and Department of Manpower to introduce registration of persons working in the fire detection and gas extinguishing industries.
A full time secretary has now been appointed to ensure the smooth running of the organisation.
The FDIA seeks the support of all consultants and end-users to utilise the services of their members.
For more information contact FDIA, 011 454 5733, fdia@fdia.co.za, www.fdia.co.za
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