On-Line Proficiency Testing for Fire Investigators
NFPA 1321 marks a turning point in fire investigation practice.
Annual proficiency testing isn’t just best practice—it’s now the standard.
With FireCred, you can ensure your investigators are not only meeting expectations but exceeding them.
Stay compliant. Stay credible. Start your annual proficiency testing with FireCred today.
Where Did Proficiency Testing Come From?
In 2024, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) published NFPA 1321: Standard for Fire Investigation Units—a groundbreaking new standard that defines how fire investigation units should be organized, operated, and maintained.
This standard complements NFPA 1033, which sets the professional qualifications for individual fire investigators. But while NFPA 1033 focuses on the person, NFPA 1321 focuses on the unit—establishing structural and operational expectations for fire investigation teams. This document included a mandate for fire investigators to undergo annual proficiency testing (check out our FireCred blog about proficiency testing to learn more).
What Is Proficiency Testing for Fire Investigators?
One of the most important changes introduced in NFPA 1321 is the requirement for annual proficiency testing of fire investigators.
According to NFPA 1321, "Management shall develop and implement a method for the annual evaluation of the proficiency of FIU personnel by an experienced and competent evaluator." What does this mean?
It means that fire investigators are now expected to demonstrate ongoing competence, not just through initial certifications or experience, but through formal, documented annual testing. This is a significant step toward greater transparency, accountability, and professionalism in the field of fire investigation.
How Does FireCred's Proficiency Testing Work?
FireCred was built with this exact need in mind. Our platform provides fully virtual, accessible-from-anywhere proficiency tests built just for fire investigators, assessments based on Annex D of NFPA 1033, documented scoring and verification to meet audit and compliance standards, and affordable pricing. The tests are straight forward, take relatively little time to complete., and are documented based on the ISO 17043 standard
Whether you're a public agency or a private firm, FireCred offers a practical, reliable way to meet the new requirements of NFPA 1321—without the overhead costs of in-person evaluations.
FireCred's Proficiency Tests
Frequently asked questions about proficiency testing
What is a proficiency test?
Proficiency testing provides a means for an organization to evaluate the skills and abilities of their fire investigators and experts. The proficiency test provides an assessment that shows whether fire investigators and experts are able to conduct accurate and sufficient investigations. Proficiency tests are designed to be taken on a single occasion, typically once a year and online, with materials provided by FireCred.
Who should take a proficiency test?
Most participants should be able to meet the qualifications of fire investigator as set forth in the current edition of NFPA 1033, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator.
How do I take
the proficiency test?
Participants will use the FireCred online platform to register for the test and submit any required personal information, payment information, and acknowledgement of the proficiency testing rules. Upon registering for the proficiency test, participants will be given detailed and specific instructions. Please note that participants are prohibited from taking previously taken (and “Passed”) FireCred proficiency tests.
What does the proficiency test consist of?
Participants will be evaluated on their understanding of a particular concept, methodology, or core investigative function. The topics are all derived from recommended methodologies found in NFPA 921 and other relevant texts. FireCred will provide materials, typically photographs or guided tours through an iGUIDE product, and the participant will then be asked a series of questions. These questions will have an assigned point value. This point value may vary depending on the nature and complexity of the question. Participants will either receive full credit for answering the question correctly, or no credit for answering it incorrectly (there is no partial credit). A “Pass” results requires a score of 70 points or higher.
How long do I have to take the proficiency test?
Upon opening the proficiency test module, participants have up to two (2) hours to complete the test. IMPORTANT – Please note that the test, once started, cannot be paused.
What should I do with materials provided by FireCred during the proficiency test?
Participants are to treat proficiency testing items in the same manner as data routinely procured during actual investigations. Participants may print FireCred proficiency test items but are prohibited from distributing these materials during and/or following the test. FireCred requests that any materials printed out during the proficiency test be destroyed in an appropriate manner immediately following the completion of the proficiency test.
Can I take the proficiency test with other participants?
Participants are prohibited from colluding with one another in preparing for or during the proficiency test. This proficiency test is designed to be taken solely by the participant and should not be taken with the assistance or participation of any other individuals. In addition, because of the individual nature of proficiency testing, participants may not discuss or reveal specific details about the test exhibits, data, or questions during the test and/or after they have completed the test. FireCred encourages practitioners to follow their organizations' code of ethics, maintain professionalism, and ensure the integrity of the proficiency test.
When will I learn the results of the proficiency test? What will they look like?
The results of the test, in the form of a FireCred report with scores, will be provided to the participant within 24 hours of the completion of the test. These scores are provided to the participant, and a “Pass” or “Non-Pass” result is provided. A FireCred evaluator may also provide expert commentary to the participant regarding the test results. Should the participant earn a “Non-Pass” result, instructions will be provided with the report as to how to register for a second test and another attempt. Participants will have two opportunities to take and pass a given proficiency test.
Are proficiency test results confidential?
All information created during the performance of a proficiency test will be collected by FireCred and stored in a secure manner. Results of the proficiency test will be held in confidentiality and will only be provided by FireCred to the participant. Participants may request from FireCred that the test results be shared with others (for example, their supervisor).
Can I take the same proficiency test I previously completed in order to satisfy a subsequent year's testing requirement?
No, as this would be unethical and circumvent the purpose of proficiency testing. FireCred highly recommends you follow your organization's code of ethics and training standards when taking proficiency tests.
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