Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS)
Introducing the FESS card
At Cube, we’re excited to announce our status as an approved test centre for FESS assessment. As a trusted training provider, we bring you the ECS FESS Assessment, your key to obtaining the FESS Operative Card.
What is the point of getting an ECS card?
With the right ECS card, you can demonstrate your proficiency in the fire and security field. In the FESS scheme, there are eight different types of cards.
- FESS Apprentice and Trainee
The FESS apprentice card validates the completion of a level 3 apprenticeship in Fire, Emergency, or Security Systems. The apprentice must be completing an apprenticeship standard that leads to the ECS FESS Systems Technician gold card requirements. Apprenticeships are available in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- FESS Trainee
New entrants to the Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) industry who are enrolled in an industry training programme for example our EAL Level 3 Diploma (not an apprenticeship) that leads to the requirements of the ECS FESS Systems Technician gold card may apply for a FESS trainee Card.
- FESS Labourer
The FESS Labourer ECS card is intended for those who work in the electrical industry in a supportive role, assisting other qualified personnel with cable installation and other unskilled labour under supervision.
- FESS Systems Operative
The ECS Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) Systems Operative card is for those who operate as a specialist installer or maintainer of FESS systems in the FESS business. After passing the industry FESS Experienced Worker Assessment, some workers with this card and relevant industry experience may be able to apply for an ECS FESS gold card as a Systems Technician.
- FESS Systems Technician
The FESS Systems Technician ECS gold card certifies successful completion of the level 3 FESS apprenticeship standard, which includes the FESS endpoint assessment or the FESS Experienced Worker Assessment (which is still in development).
Typically, the Systems Technician will work unsupervised in all aspects of FESS sector installation, maintenance, and commissioning.
- FESS Systems Technician (Gold)
The ECS Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) Systems Technician gold ECS card is intended for operatives who have completed an industry-recognized level 3 apprenticeship, or an equivalent standard, in Fire, Emergency and Security Systems. Apprenticeships are available in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- FESS Technical Manager
Managers who have completed both the FESS Systems Technician ECS gold card and the ECS manager criteria are eligible for the FESS Technical Manager ECS card.
This card recognises the cardholder as having met the FESS industry benchmark level 3 technical standard as well as being an industry manager.
- FESS Technical Auditor
The FESS Technical Auditor ECS card is issued to auditors who have demonstrated both technical capabilities (such as FESS or electrical gold card holders) and auditor qualification or certification.
The FESS Technical Auditor card denotes high quality standards that must be followed across all individual jobs, including those in charge of ensuring standards are met through third-party certification programmes.
What are the advantages of applying for a FESS card?
- Elevate your career and showcase your competency with the FESS Operative Card, validating your expertise in the fire and security sector.
- Our comprehensive training prepares you for success, ensuring you’re equipped to excel in the assessment and stand out in the industry.
- Don’t miss this opportunity to prove your skills.
Join Cube Group Training and unlock your potential in the fire and security domain! 🌟
The qualification framework for FESS
The Fire, Emergency, and Security Systems (FESS) occupational qualification framework was established in 2019, resulting from collaboration among trade associations, certification bodies, and employer representatives. It aims to align with apprenticeship standards and address skill shortage within the industry.
These changes support the industry’s goal to professionalise and the Construction Leadership Council’s initiative to tie CSCS partnered cards to recognised qualification standards.
Are you someone who’s gained extensive experience in fire and security but lacks formal qualifications?
The new structure allows experienced individuals without formal qualifications in the sector to showcase their expertise through the FESS Operative card via the ECS FESS Assessment.
What are the FESS paths accessible in the fire and security industry?
Discover the diverse FESS routes within the fire and security industry available:
When booking a FESS Assessment, candidates can choose from four recognised sector disciplines:
- Fire
- Fire and Emergency Lighting
- Security
- Fire and Security
These sectors represent the varied pathways within the industry, catering to different areas of expertise and specialisation for assessment purposes.
Do I need to take an exam, and where can I get my FESS assessment?
Based on the route selected, you can complete your test at Cube test centre or online.
Can I apply for a FESS card without taking the FESS assessment if I already have a fire and security qualification?
If you have already completed Cube EAL qualifications or have applicable fire qualifications (such as FireQual), you do not need to go through the FESS Assessment for an Operative card.
What kind of assistance can Cube Group Training offer in order to pass the FESS exam?
The ECS FESS Assessment doesn’t offer open access to all questions for preparation.
Cube Training is committed to securing your success in the FESS assessment. Enrolled in our Cube Level 3 or EAL Level 3 qualifications? You’re eligible for exclusive FESS assessment test preparation sessions. Our thorough training encompasses all crucial elements, empowering you to approach the FESS assessment with confidence.
For more information, please visit our contact us page.
*Note: The information in this post was checked and verified at the time of publication; however, the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme is administered by the Joint Industry Board in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and some of the information, including fees, is subject to change without notice. Please visit the JIB website or contact them directly for more information.