The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has been reaccredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board) to maintain its HazMat and confined space certification training, ensuring members are equipped to respond effectively to high-risk emergencies.
“Receiving Pro Board reaccreditation is a testament to the IAFF’s commitment to delivering high-quality training that meets the demands of the fire service and the needs of our members and the communities we serve,” said General President Edward Kelly.
“Our reaccreditation ensures that our members continue to receive training that meets the highest professional standards, empowering them to respond to emergencies confidently and safely,” said Assistant to the General President for Training, Education and Grants, Dr. Joshua Smith.
The Pro Board is an independent organization that accredits fire service and emergency response certification programs to ensure they meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) job performance requirements.
Each year, the IAFF trains more than 7,000 emergency responders in HazMat and confined space rescue, preparing them for challenges like chemical spills and train derailments.
Accreditation by the Pro Board for HazMat training strengthens federal support and expands funding for these vital programs.
The IAFF Director of Training and Grants Administration Jamie Burgess said: “It serves as a powerful endorsement, demonstrating that IAFF training meets the highest national standards.
“It reassures federal agencies that their funding is being used to deliver high-quality, standardized training that directly benefits fire fighters across the U.S. and Canada.”
Burgess says it’s also important to highlight that no IAFF per capita tax dollars are used to deliver IAFF HazMat training classes.
“This initiative is funded through federal grants and contracts, meaning IAFF members and affiliates can access this critical training, in most cases, at no cost to the Local or the fire department,” he said.
The International Association of Fire Fighters has gained reaccreditation by the Pro Board, ensuring that they can continue to provide training.
The IAFF’S General President said that the reaccreditation is a testament to the organizations commitment to delivering high quality training.
