Solutions for the public sector
Proudly supporting public services with emergency response, safety information on thousands of chemicals, and access to expert advice and training.
Hazardous Materials Instructor
Six years on from the release of the UKFRS National Operational Guidance the importance of trained experienced officers is still paramount to dealing with specialist incidents. New energy technologies, net zero plans and alternatively fueled vehicles mean that the rate of hazardous materials incidents is ever increasing and growing in complication; thus, each fire service must have instructors who have completed and maintained accredited Hazardous Material Instructor (HMI) qualifications.
The HMI course is a critical step in training instructor development and must be delivered by an accredited experienced provider across a 3-week programme to give the full qualification compliance with the National Operational Guidance, Foundation for Hazardous Materials.
In recognition of the latest developments in the world of hazardous response incident management and in line with national guidance, the National Chemical Emergency Centre (NCEC) - operated by Ricardo in partnership with the UK Government Department for Transport - have updated the HMI course for 2024, delivered in partnership with the Fire Service College providing a world-class learning experience, delivered at FSC facilities by Ricardo's renowned hazardous materials and chemical experts.
The role of the fire service for hazmat incidents continues to evolve and is closely allied with other aspects of incident management, including environmental protection, detection, identification and monitoring and areas of national resilience, such as CBRN(e) and counter terrorism. In a multi-agency response situation, officers will perform a critical safety role in the integrated emergency management of an incident, whilst also being able to advise at incidents such as criminal activity, involving hazardous materials.
The aim of the course is to confirm the knowledge and skills required for delivering a hazmat first responder course and foundation courses aligned with the requirements of all the elements of unit FF5 'Protect the environment from the effects of hazardous materials'.
This course is one of the 'Open Programme' courses run in collaboration with the Fire Service College. The course content can be provided as privately run courses where organisations have a large number of trainees.
Emegency response resources
From NCEC to Ricardo
NCEC and Ricardo - the 50-year history of supporting the chemical sector.
Dangerous Goods Emergency Actions Codes
Free to download, get the latest copy of emergency action codes here.
Chemdata
Chemdata is a reliable and interactive chemical hazard database containing emergency response advice, recommendations for tackling spillages, fires and decontamination, and information on possible environmental impact.
Alternative fuel training
Providing an awareness of the risks associated with the transport, storage and utilisation of alternative fuels, including hydrogen, details on the potential hazards and physical properties, including case studies of their use and potential future challenges.