FM APPROVALS TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR BUSINESSES WORLDWIDE

FM Approvals, a division of FM Global, not only provides FM Approved product certifications but also supports businesses through specialised training and technical consulting programmes. These initiatives aim to enhance awareness and capability in implementing loss prevention solutions, particularly in fire protection, natural disaster mitigation, and industrial cybersecurity.

The training programmes are designed to help companies understand FM Approvals standards, effectively use FM Approved products, and apply advanced risk management practices. The following sections outline the key aspects of these programmes:

1. Target Audience and Scope of Training

Target Audience:

• Businesses using FM Approved products: Including contractors, engineers, and project managers in construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors such as textiles, electronics, and chemicals. In Vietnam, major industrial zones (e.g., Binh Duong, Dong Nai) and large-scale projects like Long Thanh Airport are key participants.

• Manufacturers seeking FM certification: Companies producing fire protection equipment (e.g., G.I. conduit, sprinklers) can learn about the certification process and requirements for obtaining the FM Approved Mark.

• Regulatory agencies and insurance partners: Fire safety authorities in Vietnam and insurance companies working with FM Global also attend to gain insight into safety standards.

Scope:
FM Approvals conducts training programmes globally through its regional offices, including Singapore (serving Southeast Asia, including Vietnam), Beijing (China), and Windsor (UK). In Vietnam, training is typically coordinated via the Singapore office or FM Global representatives.

2. Training Content

FM Approvals designs its training programmes around specific business needs, focusing on key areas such as:

Understanding FM Approvals Standards

• Introduction to over 200 Approval Standards, such as Standard 1630 for galvanised steel conduits (G.I.) and Standard 4996 for fire protection systems. Participants learn how to apply these standards in fire protection system design and operation.

• Example: For G.I. electrical conduits, FM training explains requirements such as hot-dip galvanised coating thickness (1.8 oz/ft²), ERW welding, and 300 psi pressure resistance.

Using FM Approved Products

• Guidance on selecting and installing FM Approved products (e.g., G.I. conduits, sprinklers, butterfly valves) to optimise performance and comply with codes such as NFPA 13.

• Training on verifying product authenticity through the FM Approval Guide (a database of over 60,000 approved products) and identifying counterfeit items via the FM Approved Mark.

Property Loss Prevention and Risk Management

• Participants learn how to assess risks related to fire, flooding, or natural disasters based on FM Global’s experimental research conducted at its Research Campus in Rhode Island.

• Example: Training includes fire protection design for textile factories (high fire risk) or storm-resistant FM Approved roofing for coastal industrial zones in Vietnam.

Industrial Cybersecurity

FM Approvals also provides training on protecting IoT and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) from cyberattacks that could cause fires or explosions—critical for Vietnam’s emerging smart manufacturing sector.

3. Training Methods

FM Approvals offers flexible training formats to accommodate various business needs:

Workshops and On-site Courses

• Conducted at FM offices (e.g., Singapore) or directly at client facilities. Courses typically last from a few hours to several days and are led by FM Global engineers.

• Example: A construction company in Vietnam may attend a workshop on designing FM Approved MEP conduit systems in Singapore.

Online Training

• FM Global offers e-learning modules through the FM Global Learning Center, covering FM standards, risk management, and how to use the Approval Guide. This format is especially cost-effective for Vietnamese businesses.

On-site Consulting

• FM experts visit factories or project sites in Vietnam to evaluate current systems and conduct hands-on training on improving safety performance according to FM standards.

• Example: Consulting on installing FM Approved G.I. conduits for fire protection systems in industrial parks.

Collaboration with Local Authorities

• FM Approvals partners with Vietnam’s Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department to organize safety training sessions, particularly for public infrastructure projects.

4. Training Process

1. Registration: Businesses can register via fmglobal.com or through regional offices (e.g., Singapore). FM reviews the request and proposes a suitable training program.

2. Customized Content: The curriculum is tailored to the company’s industry and scale. For instance, a textile factory may focus on sprinkler systems, while a high-tech firm may emphasize cybersecurity.

3. Implementation and Evaluation: After completion, FM provides training materials, certificates (if applicable), and follow-up support to ensure effective application of FM standards.

4. Ongoing Support: Companies can seek continued consultation or enroll in refresher courses offered periodically by FM Approvals.

5. Impact in Vietnam

• Enhancing Technical Competence: These programmes help Vietnamese engineers and contractors master FM standard-based fire protection system design, installation, and maintenance—minimising operational errors.
  Example: Training on FM Approved G.I. conduits ensures sprinkler systems perform effectively during fires.

• Improving Industrial Safety: Following major fire incidents (e.g., the 2019 Rang Dong factory fire), FM training helps businesses strengthen fire safety systems and reduce losses.

• Facilitating Global Integration: Vietnamese manufacturers in industrial zones leverage FM training and FM Approved products to meet international partner requirements (e.g., Japan, South Korea), boosting foreign investment appeal.

• Combating Counterfeits: Training on using the Approval Guide and recognising the FM Approved Mark helps Vietnamese businesses avoid counterfeit fire protection products, especially G.I. conduits.

Conclusion

FM Approvals’ training programmes provide Vietnamese businesses with in-depth knowledge of safety standards, FM Approved product use, and risk management methods. Through workshops, online courses, and on-site consulting, FM enhances technical expertise, minimises fire and disaster risks, and strengthens international competitiveness.

To make the most of these opportunities, businesses are encouraged to visit fmglobal.com, explore the FM Approval Guide, and participate in training programmes tailored to their operational needs.