Become a Certified Passive Fire Protection Inspector: ProQual Level 3 Award
The correct application and inspection of fire-rated intumescent coatings is essential for ensuring structural steel elements maintain their integrity during a fire. The ProQual Level 3 Award in the Inspection and Testing of Fire-Rated Intumescent Coatings provides learners with specialised knowledge and practical skills to verify that intumescent coating installations meet current regulations and specifications . This programme explores the behaviour of intumescent coatings in fire conditions, their unique physical properties, and the critical importance of correct application for slowing heat transfer to structural steel .
Participants will examine key topics including building regulations, Approved Document B, fire testing methodologies, and manufacturer installation requirements . The curriculum covers surface preparation, application equipment, site conditions, quality records, and methods of site measurement using appropriate instruments . Learners will also explore common installation problems through case studies, health and safety considerations for solvent-based materials, and the documentation required to demonstrate compliance with specifications .
Building upon this foundation, the ProQual Level 3 Award in the Inspection and Testing of Fire-Rated Intumescent Coatings concludes with assessments that validate your competence in inspecting and testing intumescent coating installations . Upon successful completion, you will be prepared to pursue further certifications and diplomas to deepen your knowledge in passive fire protection disciplines such as fire stopping, fire-resisting doors, or fire-rated ductwork . This qualification represents a meaningful step in your professional journey, positioning you as a competent inspector capable of ensuring fire protection systems meet regulatory requirements.
Program Highlights
Study Units
- Inspecting and Testing of Fire-Rated Steel Intumescent Coating Installations
Entry Requirements
To enroll in the ProQual Level 3 Award in the Inspection and Testing of Fire-Rated Intumescent Coatings, candidates should meet the following entry criteria:
- Age: 18 years or older .
- Education: A basic understanding of construction or passive fire protection is beneficial. Related prior learning may include a Level 2 Award in Technical Understanding of Intumescent Fire Protection, Level 2 Certificate in Construction, or relevant industry experience demonstrating foundational knowledge .
- Language: Competency in English (written and spoken) sufficient to understand technical specifications and complete written assessments.
- Experience: Practical experience in construction, painting, or passive fire protection installation is advantageous. Candidates should be comfortable working in site environments where coatings are applied.
These criteria help ensure participants can successfully engage with both the theoretical content and practical inspection requirements. Applicants with relevant industry experience or prior construction-related certifications are encouraged to apply.
Learning Outcomes
Inspecting and Testing of Fire-Rated Steel Intumescent Coating
Installations
- Understand the regulations and standards applying to fire-rated steel intumescent coatings
- Know the inspection procedure for fire-rated steel intumescent coating installations
- Be able to inspect and test firerated steel intumescent coating installations
Target Audience
The ProQual Level 3 Award in the Inspection and Testing of Fire-Rated Intumescent Coatings is designed for professionals responsible for verifying that passive fire protection systems meet regulatory standards and manufacturer specifications. This qualification is ideal for those involved in the application, inspection, or approval of intumescent coatings on structural steel elements across construction and refurbishment projects.
Passive Fire Protection Inspectors
- Verify that intumescent coating installations comply with specifications and building regulations
- Master inspection techniques for surface preparation, application quality, and dry film thickness
- Learn to identify common installation defects and non-conformances
- Document inspection findings and produce compliance reports
- Ensure structural steel achieves required fire resistance periods
- Build specialist credentials in passive fire protection inspection
Site Managers and Construction Supervisors
- Oversee intumescent coating application on construction projects
- Understand manufacturer requirements and site conditions for proper application
- Verify that applicators follow correct procedures and quality standards
- Ensure project compliance with Approved Document B and fire safety regulations
- Coordinate between coating applicators, inspectors, and building control
- Protect project timelines by preventing coating failures and rework
Cladding and Fire Protection Applicators
- Deepen your understanding of correct application techniques and quality standards
- Learn to self-inspect your work against manufacturer specifications
- Understand how surface preparation and environmental conditions affect coating performance
- Reduce costly rework through improved quality control
- Enhance your credibility with contractors and building control officers
- Advance your career with specialist certification in intumescent coatings
Building Control Officers and Approved Inspectors
- Understand the critical role of intumescent coatings in structural fire protection
- Learn to evaluate inspection reports and verify coating compliance
- Develop knowledge of testing methodologies and quality assurance requirements
- Assess whether installed coatings meet fire resistance specifications
- Keep pace with evolving standards for passive fire protection
- Strengthen your capability in regulating construction fire safety
Fire Engineers and Fire Safety Consultants
- Expand your passive fire protection knowledge into intumescent coatings
- Understand how coating performance affects structural fire resistance
- Learn to specify appropriate inspection and testing regimes
- Evaluate coating inspection reports as part of fire strategy reviews
- Provide informed advice on passive fire protection quality assurance
- Enhance your fire engineering consultancy services
Structural Engineers and Design Professionals
- Understand how intumescent coatings protect structural steel in fire
- Learn about application requirements that affect coating performance
- Specify appropriate inspection and testing regimes for projects
- Ensure design intentions are realised through correct installation
- Collaborate effectively with fire protection specialists
- Add valuable passive fire protection knowledge to your practice
Quality Assurance and Compliance Managers
- Oversee quality control for intumescent coating installations across projects
- Develop inspection protocols aligned with manufacturer requirements
- Train and supervise inspection teams in testing methodologies
- Maintain documentation demonstrating regulatory compliance
- Ensure organisations meet their legal duties under building regulations
- Protect organisational reputation through robust quality assurance
This Level 3 Award empowers you to become a competent inspector of fire-rated intumescent coatings, ensuring structural steel achieves its required fire protection performance. The specialist knowledge and practical skills gained will position you as a trusted professional in passive fire protection and open doors to new opportunities in construction and fire safety.
