Initial fire safety officer training (SSIAP 1) is essential for those wishing to specialize in fire safety. The course lasts 10 days. This includes not only theoretical training, but also a practical test to validate the skills acquired. The cost of this training is also a factor to consider, with an average price of around €1,200 including VAT.
Introduction to SSIAP 1 training
SSIAP 1 training covers several essential aspects of becoming a fire safety officer. It includes theoretical and practical modules designed to ensure safety in establishments open to the public (ERP) and high-rise buildings (IGH).
Candidates must meet several prerequisites before registering. They must hold a valid first aid certificate, such as the SST, PSC1 or PSE1. In addition, a medical certificate attesting to their physical fitness is required.
Specific training objectives include understanding combustion phenomena, mastering intervention techniques and managing a safe evacuation. Trainees also learn how to use fire-fighting equipment and how to draw up a log to report any anomalies detected.
Finally, practical exercises such as simulations of emergency situations give participants hands-on experience and reinforce their skills.
Understanding the role of the fire safety officer
The fire safety officer, often referred to as SSIAP 1, fulfills a number of missions crucial to the safety of establishments open to the public (ERP) and high-rise buildings (IGH). They are responsible for fire prevention, making employees aware of the risks and regularly checking safety equipment.
His responsibilities also include responding to fire outbreaks. He must know how to handle fire extinguishers, activate alarms and organize public evacuation.
In addition to these tasks, the agent must be able to welcome and guide outside help, such as the fire department, during an intervention.
Reporting is another key skill. The agent must record anomalies and incidents on a logbook, ensuring that events are rigorously tracked.
Thanks to this versatility, the fire safety officer ensures the protection of life and property.
What is the SSIAP 1 diploma?
The SSIAP 1 diploma, or Service de Sécurité Incendie et d'Assistance à Personnes de niveau 1, is a recognized certification enabling you to work as a fire safety officer. To obtain this diploma, you need to undergo specific training and pass the assessment tests.
Prerequisites include valid first-aid certification and a medical certificate of physical fitness. Training includes theoretical modules on fire regulations and technical installations, as well as practical exercises.
At the end of the course, candidates must sit a final exam consisting of :
- A written MCQ test
- A practical test with role-playing exercises
The diploma is awarded after validation by a jury. The jury is generally made up of representatives of the Service Départemental d'Incendie et de Secours (SDIS) and a SSIAP 3. A provisional certificate may be issued while awaiting the final diploma.
The path to the SSIAP 1 diploma
To obtain the SSIAP 1 diploma, several steps are required. Firstly, candidates must ensure that they meet the prerequisites, such as possession of a valid first-aid certificate (PSC1, SST, or PSE1) and a recent medical certificate of physical fitness.
The training itself lasts between 67 and 80 hours, spread over ten days. It consists of theoretical and practical modules designed to provide the necessary fire prevention and safety skills.
The assessment tests include a 30-question MCQ and a practical test. A jury, often comprising an SDIS representative and a SSIAP 3, validates the skills acquired.
A final diploma is awarded on successful completion of the tests. A provisional certificate may be issued pending the final diploma.
Duration and content of initial SSIAP 1 training
Initial SSIAP 1 training lasts a minimum of 67 hours. It is divided into several theoretical and practical modules.
The main topics covered include :
- Understanding fire and its consequences
- Fire safety and technical installations
- The roles and missions of fire safety officers
- Fire prevention and response methods
Trainees also learn how to handle fire extinguishers and RIAs (Robinet d'Incendie Armé). They are also trained in evacuation and emergency response.
Practical exercises, such as emergency simulations, are carried out to reinforce skills. Each participant is expected to master first-aid techniques, often validated by a training certificate.
SSIAP 1 training centers
SSIAP 1 training centers offer a variety of programs tailored to the specific needs of trainees. The course lasts 67 hours, spread over approximately 10 days. Courses are designed to cover all aspects of fire safety.
Centers often offer both theoretical and practical modules, including sessions on fire regulations, technical installations, and day-to-day risk management. Practical exercises are essential for gaining hands-on experience.
There are several ways to finance this training:
- Personal Training Account (CPF)
- Paid for by the employer
- Special assistance for people with disabilities
The centers ensure that each trainee benefits from personalized follow-up, guaranteeing quality training.
The SSIAP 1 final exam
The SSIAP 1 final exam consists of two separate tests. The first is a written test in the form of a multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ). This 30-minute MCQ covers the theoretical knowledge acquired during training.
The second test is practical. It consists of a 15-minute inspection round, during which the candidate must identify anomalies and potential damage. This test assesses the candidate's ability to apply the techniques learned in a real-life situation.
These tests are assessed by a jury comprising representatives of the Service Départemental d'Incendie et de Secours (SDIS ) and a SSIAP 3. Passing these tests is a prerequisite for obtaining the diploma. A provisional certificate may be issued pending the final diploma.
SSIAP 1 diploma validity and renewal
To ensure that the SSIAP 1 diploma remains valid, it must be renewed every three years. Holders must take a refresher course lasting a minimum of 14 hours. This training enables you to update your knowledge of fire safety and maintain your skills.
To be eligible for retraining, candidates must satisfy several conditions:
- Proof of 1607 hours of activity as a fire safety officer over the last 36 months
- Valid first aid certificate (PSC1, SST, PSE1)
If these conditions are not met, a refresher course is required. This is longer and more comprehensive than a refresher course, covering all the basic skills required for SSIAP 1.
Refresher training to maintain your SSIAP 1 qualification
SSIAP 1 refresher training is essential to ensure that fire safety officers remain up to date with regulatory and technical developments. Lasting 14 hours, this two-day course includes both theoretical and practical modules.
The main topics covered are
- Prevention: new fire prevention regulations.
- Emergency resources: update on equipment and intervention procedures.
- Case scenarios: practical exercises to test reactions to different emergency scenarios.
Each participant must also demonstrate that they have worked at least 1,607 hours as a fire safety officer in the last 36 months. In the event of failure, a refresher course may be offered to remedy any identified shortcomings.
The cost of initial SSIAP 1 training
The cost of initial SSIAP 1 training can vary depending on the establishment and region. As a general rule, the average price is between €1,100 and €1,350 including tax. Several factors influence this cost:
- Application fees
- Teaching materials provided
- The quality and experience of our trainers
Various financing solutions are available to help alleviate this expense. The Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF) is often used by candidates. Other alternatives include assistance from Pôle Emploi or company financing.
You can also benefit from preferential rates if you finance your training yourself. Some centers offer payment facilities, such as staggered payments, to make training more accessible.
Link between SSIAP 1 training and the fire department
Firefighters often have specific fire safety skills. These skills can be recognized by equivalence with the SSIAP 1 diploma. For example, volunteer or professional firefighters can obtain the SSIAP 1 diploma through additional modules.
These modules enable firefighters to adapt to the specific requirements of public reception facilities (ERP) and high-rise buildings (IGH). They cover topics such as fire regulations, risk management and coordination with other stakeholders.
Firefighters undergoing SSIAP 1 training also benefit from field experience, which facilitates their learning. They are prepared for a wide range of missions, from fire prevention to the evacuation of people in danger.
This close link between the two training courses enhances the quality and effectiveness of fire safety officers, ensuring better protection for all.
Differences between SSIAP levels 1, 2 and 3
The SSIAP 1, 2 and 3 levels differ mainly in terms of responsibilities and training duration. SSIAP 1 trains fire safety officers in 67 hours. They ensure the safety of people and property in establishments open to the public and in high-rise buildings.
SSIAP 2, on the other hand, is aimed at team leaders. Training lasts 11 days and includes managing a team of agents. They must also master the coordination of internal emergency services and the supervision of evacuation drills.
Lastly, the SSIAP 3 course prepares heads of department in 216 hours. They have managerial and strategic responsibilities. Their role is to advise management on fire safety issues and supervise all on-site safety activities.
The prerequisites also vary: SSIAP 3 requires a level IV diploma or 3 years' SSIAP 2 experience, while SSIAP 2 requires 1607 hours' SSIAP 1 experience.
