Fire Testing, Inspection & Service Techs to be Professionally Registered and Accountable
The citizens of BC should know with certainty that the technicians servicing fire protection systems are fully qualified, competent, professionally registered and accountable. British Columbians expect that fire safety systems such as fire extinguishers, fire alarms, emergency lighting systems and other devices are inspected, tested and serviced by individuals who have met a uniform standard of training and experience and are registered by the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC), a professional regulatory body under the Professional Governance Act (BC). We cite as an excellent example of best practice the 24 local government Fire Bylaws that currently call for ASTTBC registration. TPBC believes all local and regional governments in BC should stipulate in their Fire Bylaw that fire technicians be registered with ASTTBC when providing testing, inspection and servicing of fire safety systems.
BUILD BETTER BC Recommendation:
That local governments in BC enact a provision in their Fire Bylaw that stipulates that carrying out of fire safety testing, inspection and servicing is conducted by technicians who are currently registered with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC).
In making this safety recommendation TPBC acknowledges that it may take time for some local governments, notably smaller and remote communities, to fully implement this critically important safety measure. TPBC is committed to working with all parties to ensure that fire technicians have access to the needed training and registration processes, such that all British Columbians have fire safety assurance.
Information on ASTTBC Fire Protection Registration > https://asttbc.org/rfpts/