A Journey to Earning a Gold Card in Fire and Security Systems with Kevin Harris

Kevin Harris is the latest to complete the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Providing Electronic Fire and Security Systems, proudly earning his ECS Fire and Security (FESS) Technician gold card. In this interview, Kevin shares his motivations, experiences, and how achieving this qualification will enhance his professional credibility.

About Kevin Harris

Kevin has been an experienced fire alarm engineer in the fire and electrical industry for over 25 years. Initially training as a microbiologist, Kevin transitioned into electricals due to a longstanding interest in the field. He spent ten years as an electrical manager before dedicating the last 15 years to fire systems. Kevin is the Managing Director of Broadway Brand, working as a subcontracted fire alarm engineer for several companies. He does everything from design through to commissioning and also auditing. Kevin embarked on his NVQ journey in February and completed it by June.

Kevin, why did you pursue the Zzeus NVQ?

A number of factors really. The BAFE Scheme document version 8 stipulates the requirement for each module of SP203-1 to have a Lead Engineer nominated and to be qualified. Recent changes in the ECS scheme requires that fire alarm engineers must hold an ECS FESS assessment, and the upcoming changes to abolish grandfather rights meant that it was the perfect time to obtain the necessary qualifications in my field. The only other way to get a gold card was through an apprenticeship, which I hadn't completed, making the NVQ the most straightforward route for an experienced engineer like me. I had always wanted to pursue an NVQ in electrics but had never found the time, relying instead on my extensive field experience. The timing couldn't have been better for me to achieve this qualification.

What made you choose Zzeus?

I received many recommendations from industry peers and Zzeus tick all of these boxes in the NVQ package, so it was a no-brainer. Plus, it seemed like a cost-effective route, and included the 5-day Level 3 award in BS 5839-1, which I have always wanted to take.

How did it feel to return to education as an experienced engineer?

I fully endorse adult learning and Continuous Professional Development (CPD). It's necessary, especially in our field, because things change and we need to get it right first time when installing life safety systems. I specialise in fire systems and want to know everything I can.

How did you find the 5-day course?

It was great; I loved it. Buddy is a fantastic instructor, and the facilities are top-notch. It was fantastic to see everyone's knowledge develop each day. As an experienced engineer, I knew a lot, but it acted as a refresher, and I still picked up a couple of things each day that I now use out in the field. So overall, it was a great use of time. I even joined the 100% club and achieved the highest score possible!

That's quite an achievement. Were you expecting to get 100%?

God, no! I didn't want to set myself up for disappointment, so I was happy with just a pass. However, it worked out, and I got a badge!

What were the 'little things' you picked up?

One significant takeaway was checking the auxiliary voltage on a system to ensure the power supply is sufficient for the panel. In my 15 years, I was never aware of this test, even during BAFE exams. It was a crucial learning point.

Now, the NVQ. How did you find that?

It was a straightforward process, which I managed to do around working full-time. I had to dedicate a little bit of time in the evenings. I started the NVQ in February and gained my qualification and gold card in June. It was worth every bit of my time.

What was the process?

An NVQ is a work-based qualification that recognises the skills and knowledge needed to do a job. Therefore, lots of it was straightforward. I simply had to prove my previous work.

I had an online portal that displayed eight different modules. I could view what I had achieved and what was outstanding.

Firstly, I was asked to upload all my qualifications, certificates, and CPD over the years. As a subcontractor, these documents were already on hand. I also uploaded a couple of complete Job files I had done from quotation to Handover, so submitting those got me up to 60% in one hit, as I could quickly prove competency.

Next, I had to take an online Health and safety module and demonstrate my compliance with safety standards.

When I neared the 85% mark, I noted the key points for each module's requirements and then worked out how to tick them off. Some of it was easy to tick off, for example, I had to upload videos of carrying out work, such as safe isolation.

Lastly, we arranged a site visit with Tom, where he assessed a project I worked on. I evidenced cause and effects and fault-finding, which helped me reach 100%.

What was your impression of the Zzeus team?

They are lovely. The facilities and the team are top-notch. It's a family entity, so friendly and supportive. They are dedicated and do such good things for the industry. I know Tom is all over the country doing all sorts of industry activity, so it was great that he was still there marking my NVQ reports.

Will the gold card help you prove competency going forward?

Absolutely! I have clients who require proof of competency. In the past, I used my ECS card, but now I have my gold card. Nobody can argue with that. It's about time our industry moved in this direction. We all need to prove competency, as there are too many people out there who don't know what they're doing—and that needs to stop.

As Kevin continues to set standards in his field, his story inspires others to pursue formal recognition of being a fire alarm engineer.

Get your gold card with the Zzeus NVQ here.