NFA moves to accredit fire safety professionals

The National Fire Authority (NFA) is working to establish a national accreditation framework for fire protection practitioners and firms.

Chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said the framework would draw on internationally recognised models to ensure only qualified professionals operate in the sector.

He said the move would drive higher standards, as data shows residential properties account for up to 95 per cent of structural fires and most fire-related deaths.

“This partnership will facilitate ongoing technical and knowledge exchange, giving Fiji access to global expertise, emerging technologies, and best practices in fire safety,” he said.

“Through these collaborations, we are not only strengthening our institutional capacity, but also positioning Fiji to align confidently with international benchmarks in fire safety and building compliance.”

The NFA is also strengthening partnerships with regional and international agencies, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Fire Protection Association Australia, National Fire Agency Taiwan, and the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority.

Mr Sowane said the authority had formalised a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding with the Fire Protection Association Australia.

Under the agreement, both parties will collaborate on legislative reform and regulatory advice to strengthen national fire safety laws and compliance frameworks, align Fiji with international standards—including elements of the Australian National Construction Code—and develop structured training pathways for fire protection practitioners.