In the first collaboration of its kind between Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and a polytechnic, SCDF and Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) are offering a Diploma in Technology (Building Services & Fire Safety) in April 2011. The course aims to elevate the standing of fire engineering professionals in the industry.

This part-time diploma course is open to SCDF personnel and the general public, in particular technicians in the fire safety and facilities management fields.

The first intake of the diploma course will comprise 37 students.

Diploma in Technology (Building Services & Fire Safety)

The Diploma in Technology (Building Services & Fire Safety) is jointly awarded by SCDF and NP.

a. Course Intakes

There will be two intakes each year, one in April and the other in October.

b. Course Curriculum

A total of 17 core modules; such as Computer Aided Design, Architectural & Building Construction, Air-conditioning & Mechanical Ventilation Systems, Building Electrical Systems & Design, Fire Safety Legislation & Regulations, Fire Operations & Investigation, Performance-based Fire Safety and Intelligent Building Systems will be covered in this course. SCDF will teach 4 of these core modules, and the rest will be taught by NP lecturers.

In addition to the core modules, students will have to take elective modules offered by the various academic schools of NP.

Certificate in Fire Safety Manager

Graduates of the new course will also be awarded a Certificate in Fire Safety Manager which qualifies them to register as Fire Safety Managers with the SCDF.

MOU between SCDF and NP

The Diploma in Technology (Building Services & Fire Safety) was developed from a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between SCDF and NP on 28 September 1998 to collaborate in areas which would benefit both organisations as well as the public.

Under the MOU, both organisations will jointly conduct training courses for SCDF personnel and the general public in the areas of fire science and fire safety management. In addition, both organisations will jointly develop specialised training courses and organise seminars on a variety of specialised fields in fire engineering, fire safety management, emergency services and civil defence technology.