Embarking on a career as a fire safety officer requires specific training: SSIAP 1. This 70-hour training course varies in cost from one training center to another. Prices can range from €1,100 to €1,350, and there are various means of financing to facilitate access. It is also important to note that retraining is required.
Understanding SSIAP 1 training
The role of the fire safety officer
Fire safety officers play a crucial role in preventing fires and protecting people. They must make regular rounds to check the condition of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and alarms.
He or she is also responsible for making employees aware of fire safety rules. In the event of an incident, he or she must be able to sound the alarm and coordinate the evacuation of occupants.
Checking technical installations is also part of the job. He or she must ensure that all safety systems are operational, and report any anomalies in the logbook.
Finally, the agent must be able to greet emergency services and provide them with the information they need to intervene effectively.
The SSIAP 1 diploma: what does it involve?
The SSIAP 1 diploma is the first level of qualification to become a fire safety and personal assistance officer. It enables holders to master the basics of fire prevention and safety in public buildings (ERP) and high-rise buildings (IGH).
Training generally lasts 67 hours, divided between theoretical and practical instruction. The main modules covered include :
- Fire behavior and its consequences
- Fire safety
- Technical installations and maintenance
Candidates must also pass written and practical tests to validate their diploma. Prerequisites include good physical condition, a medical certificate of fitness and up-to-date first-aid skills (such as PSC1 or SST). The diploma is valid for three years, with compulsory refresher courses to keep skills up to date.
Prerequisites for SSIAP 1 training
Training eligibility requirements
To be eligible for SSIAP 1 training, a number of criteria must be met. Candidates must hold a valid first-aid diploma, such as the PSC1 (Prévention et Secours Civiques) less than two years old, the PSE1 (Premiers Secours en Équipe) or the SST (Sauveteur Secouriste du Travail).
A medical certificate attesting to physical fitness, less than three months old, is also required. A good command of the French language, both written and spoken, is required to be able to transcribe anomalies and alert emergency services in the event of an incident.
Finally, candidates must pass a preliminary assessment carried out by the training center to verify their ability to follow the intensive program.
Initial training duration
Initial training for the SSIAP 1 diploma generally lasts between 67 and 70 hours. This includes theoretical and practical sessions to prepare trainees effectively for various emergency situations.
The courses are spread over about two weeks, enabling candidates to familiarize themselves with fire prevention techniques and evacuation procedures.
During this training course, trainees take part in real-life scenarios to reinforce their skills. These practical exercises are essential to ensure a rapid and appropriate response to an outbreak of fire.
Future fire safety officers must also master first aid techniques and be able to coordinate the arrival of emergency services.
Finally, a final exam consisting of written and practical tests validates the knowledge and skills acquired during training.
Details of SSIAP 1 training content
Training modules
SSIAP 1 training comprises a number of essential modules for fire safety in ERP and IGH buildings. Here are the main modules covered:
- Fire and its consequences: Understand the behavior of fire, its effects and the associated dangers.
- Fire safety: Learn about regulations, standards and procedures.
- Technical installations: Learn about the different types of safety equipment, their operation and maintenance.
- Roles and missions of fire safety officers: Mastering day-to-day responsibilities, such as patrols and anomaly management.
- Putting knowledge into practice: Participate in real-life situations to apply theoretical and practical knowledge.
These modules are designed to provide comprehensive training, combining theory and practice, to prepare future operatives to intervene effectively in the event of a fire.
Total training time
It includes theoretical and practical sessions, totaling 67 hours. These hours are often spread over a two-week period, with intensive courses every day.
Practical sessions cover evacuation drills, fire extinguisher handling and fire alarm system management. Trainees also learn how to identify potential risks and carry out safety rounds.
Theoretical courses cover topics such as the characteristics of fire, fire prevention techniques and current regulations. Certified instructors with extensive experience in the field provide these courses.
To validate their training, candidates must pass written and practical tests. These assessments are designed to verify their ability to react effectively in the event of a fire, and to ensure the safety of people and property.
The cost of SSIAP 1 training
Average price observed for training
The average price for SSIAP 1 training generally varies between €1,100 and €1,350 including tax. However, this range can fluctuate depending on a number of criteria.
These criteria include the location of the training center, the reputation of the establishment, and ancillary costs such as teaching materials. Some training centers offer more competitive rates if you finance your training yourself.
It is also possible to benefit from partial or total funding from companies or partners. Schemes such as the Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF) or Pôle Emploi can also help reduce costs.
Factors influencing training costs
The cost of SSIAP 1 training can vary according to several factors. Firstly, the geographical location of the training center plays a crucial role. Training courses in the Paris region, for example, tend to be more expensive than those in the provinces.
The reputation of the establishment is also a determining factor. A renowned training center may charge higher rates because of the quality of its trainers and facilities.
Additional costs can also influence the final price. These include teaching materials, uniforms or special equipment.
Finally, the financing options available can lighten the cost. Schemes such as the Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF) or assistance from Pôle Emploi can cover part of the cost.
Financing SSIAP 1 training
Coverage by Pôle Emploi
Pôle Emploi offers a range of financing solutions for jobseekers wishing to take SSIAP 1 training. Depending on the type of financing granted, it is possible to benefit from full or partial coverage of training costs.
To begin this process, it is essential to make an appointment with your Pôle Emploi advisor. He or she will assess your professional project and guide you in putting together a financing application. Supporting documents often include a certificate of entitlement to training or an estimate from the training organization.
Financing can cover :
- Training costs
- Travel expenses, if the training takes place far from your home
- Cost of teaching materials
These grants significantly reduce the cost of training and facilitate access to this essential profession.
How to finance your training?
There are several options for financing your SSIAP 1 training. If you are an employee, you can use your Personal Training Account (CPF). This allows you to use your accumulated training hours to finance all or part of your training costs.
Jobseekers can benefit from Pôle Emploi funding. To do so, you need to make an appointment with a Pôle Emploi advisor, who will guide you in putting together your financing application.
Other schemes also exist, such as regional aid schemes like the Chèque Formation. This voucher is intended for young people under 25 with no qualifications, or jobseekers who have been registered for less than 24 months.
Finally, some training centers offer payment facilities, enabling you to spread your costs over several monthly installments at no extra charge.
Free SSIAP 1 training: myth or reality?
Free SSIAP 1 training is sometimes perceived as a myth, but opportunities do exist. Some institutions offer free or reduced-cost training thanks to special funding.
Here are a few options:
- Regional subsidies: some regions finance training courses for jobseekers.
- Pôle Emploi: can cover all or part of the costs for people registered as jobseekers.
- Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF ): enables employees and jobseekers to finance their training using their CPF hours.
One concrete example is the partnership between certain training centers and companies, who finance training in exchange for a commitment to work for them. This type of agreement can be highly advantageous for both parties, guaranteeing quality training while ensuring rapid professional integration.
SSIAP 1 retraining and costs
The importance of retraining for fire safety officers
SSIAP 1 refresher training is essential to keep fire safety officers' skills up to date. It ensures compliance with current regulations and guarantees effective intervention in the event of a fire.
Agents must renew their diplomas every three years to remain operational. Refresher training comprises several essential modules:
- Updating regulatory knowledge
- Prevention and intervention techniques
- Practical situations
These sessions cover topics ranging from occupant evacuation to the use of fire extinguishers. Refresher training is crucial to risk prevention and raising employee awareness of good safety practices. Training courses are often conducted over two days, totalling 14 hours. Up-to-date skills ensure that agents keep abreast of the latest technological and regulatory developments.
