Overview
The Certified Fire Safety Engineer (CFSEng.IIESMS) credential awarded by the Institute of Industrial Engineering and Safety Management Systems (IIESMS) is a prestigious professional qualification. It validates an individual’s proficiency in fire‑safety engineering and is gained through a dedicated training programme or an examination process. Employers value this certification because it confirms that a person holds the knowledge and skills necessary to perform specialist fire‑engineering roles safely and effectively.
Eligibility requirements
Educational qualifications
• Candidates should hold a Level 8 qualification on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) in a fire‑safety engineering discipline or a primary degree in engineering accredited by IIESMS. Equivalent qualifications recognised by IIESMS are also acceptable.
Professional experience
• At least four years of relevant postgraduate experience in fire‑safety engineering is required.
• This experience should demonstrate progression and increasing levels of responsibility in engineering practice.
Professional competence
Candidates must demonstrate competence in several key areas, including:
• Application of engineering knowledge
• Management of engineering work
• Effective communication
• Professional conduct and ethical practice
• Continuing professional development (CPD)
Professional review
Applicants must submit a detailed report outlining their engineering experience and how it meets the required competencies. IIESMS conducts a professional interview to assess each candidate’s experience and competence.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Certified members must actively engage in CPD activities to maintain and enhance their professional skills and knowledge. They must keep their CPD record up to date to retain their status and ensure that their skills, knowledge and experience remain current.
Flexibility and waivers
The National Council may waive the master’s‑level requirement if an applicant has sufficient professional experience and meets the definition of a competent person under Irish legislation.
Peer review process
Registration as a Certified Member is based on a peer‑review process that evaluates education, competence and commitment. Education is demonstrated through academic qualifications or a technical report. Competence and commitment are assessed through a professional review of a written practice report and a review interview. Reviews are measured against the standards contained in the EU‑SPEC specification.
Other Fire Memberships
Certified Fire Engineer (CFEng.IIESMS)
Certified Fire Safety Manager (CFSM.IIESMS)
Fire Engineer (FEng.IIESMS)
Fire Safety Technician (FST.IIESMS)
Fire Safety Technician (FST.IIESMS)
Fire Systems Specialist (FSS.IIESMS)
Key Information
Fees and Membership
Members who achieve Certified Membership are entitled to use the designatory letters AFSS.IIESMS. The fees associated with the certification process include the following:
- Registration: €15.00
- Grade Review Fee: €150.00
- Practice Review: €75.00 (Alternative Route Only)
- Report Re-assessment: €75.00 (Where applicable – Alternative Route Only)
- Interview Assessment: €50.00
- Administration Fee: 20% of the total application process fee (On successful application)
- Annual Subscription Rates: €245.00