Certification

NATIONAL ACCREDITATION

The Utah Fire Service Certification System is a nationally recognized program that is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) and the National Board on Fire Service Professional Standards (Pro Board).

The accreditation status provides Utah firefighters with certification portability. Being internationally accredited ensures the first responder the certification they receive in Utah will be recognized in other states and countries. The Utah Certification program was re-accredited by IFSAC in July 2006 and just recently by Pro Board in January of 2008. During the site-visit, site team members reviewed the certification system policies and procedures, testing tools and other aspects of the program to ensure that we cover the NFPA Professional standards. At the same time the review process ensures the Academy is operating a fair, credible and valid certification program.

This duel accreditation, with both IFSAC and Pro Board, the Utah Certification program has moved to the forefront in the area of certification. The Utah certification program is well known in the West and nationwide. The Certification Office works hard in maintaining a system that is fair and equal. We are always striving to be current and on the leading edge.

POLICY ON RECIPROCITY

If a firefighter comes from another state with either an IFSAC seal or a Pro Board certificate, the Utah Fire Service Certification System will offer reciprocity to that firefighter. The Utah Fire Certification system requires that to be certified within the state of Utah a person must first be on a Utah fire department and second, the level being requested must be accredited within the Utah system. Once these two conditions are met then they may receive a Utah certificate.