Though there is no tertiary qualification enabling the youth or experienced professionals in South Africa the opportunity to study this field via a typical 4-year degree program, the University of Stellenbosch's engineering department has launched an innovative and much-needed academic program, in an attempt to remedy this situation. Those studying in the field/s of civil or mechanical engineering, upon completion of their 4-year undergraduate degrees, may proceed to a Master's program specifically focussing on fire engineering in the South African context. Further, Dr. Richard Walls of the University of Stellenbosch has been involved in developing multiple short courses, which if attended, will greatly enhance the qualification/ competency of "fire engineers" in South Africa.
Currently, some "fire engineers" operating in S.A, though possessing no tertiary qualification in fire engineering (international degree programs), may be recognised as competent fire engineers based on their experience in the field over many decades. The only manner in which to vet such recognised professionals is to ensure that they are registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), and have successfully completed their panel interviews via the ECSA, thus being allowed to register in a category of fire engineering. Registering with the ECSA is mandatory for fire engineers in South Africa as per legislature. The ECSA is an independent, government body that regulates the engineering sphere for competent persons.
If you are seeking a qualified and competent fire engineer, please make sure that the professional shares with you their ECSA registration number, so that their qualifications can be verified online on the ECSA website (www.ecsa.co.za).
