Submissions

IIESMS Submissions and Consultations

IIESMS makes formal submissions to government departments, regulatory bodies, and industry consultation processes on matters affecting its five professional sectors. These submissions draw on the collective expertise of the Institute's membership and are coordinated through the relevant sector committees.

Topics addressed in IIESMS submissions include fire safety legislation and standards, workplace health and safety regulations, building control requirements, industrial engineering policy, healthcare facility standards, and professional recognition. The Institute's submissions are evidence-based, practical, and focused on improving outcomes for the public and the profession.

IIESMS submissions carry weight because they represent the informed professional view of practitioners who work within the regulatory framework being consulted upon. A submission on fire safety standards reflects the experience of fire risk assessors, fire safety managers, and fire engineers who apply those standards daily. A submission on workplace safety regulations draws on the knowledge of safety officers and consultants who implement those regulations in workplaces across Ireland.

The Submissions Process

When a consultation relevant to the Institute's disciplines is published - by a government department, the HSA, HIQA, or other regulatory body - the relevant sector group committee assesses its significance and determines whether an IIESMS response is appropriate. For consultations of broad interest, multiple sector groups may contribute to a coordinated Institute-level response.

The committee drafts a response drawing on the expertise of its members and, where appropriate, seeking input from the wider membership. Draft submissions are reviewed for accuracy, balance, and alignment with the Institute's positions before being finalised and submitted on behalf of IIESMS. All submissions are approved by the National Council or delegated authority before submission.

Areas of Engagement

IIESMS has contributed to consultations and policy development in areas including:

• Fire safety legislation and enforcement in Ireland
• Building control standards and Technical Guidance Documents
• Workplace health and safety regulations and codes of practice
• Healthcare facility standards and HIQA regulatory requirements
• Professional education and qualifications frameworks
• EU directives on workplace safety, machinery, and environmental protection
• Standards development for fire detection, emergency lighting, and fire doors
• Industrial policy and manufacturing competitiveness

Contributing Your Expertise

Members are encouraged to propose topics for IIESMS submissions and to contribute their expertise to the drafting process. If you are aware of an upcoming consultation or policy development that affects your sector, raise it with your sector committee chair or contact [email protected]. Your professional experience strengthens every submission the Institute makes.

Contributing to submissions develops understanding of the regulatory and policy context of your discipline, builds skills in evidence-based communication, and is recognised as valuable CPD. Members who regularly contribute to policy work develop a reputation within the Institute and the wider profession as thought leaders in their field.