In the organization’s pursuit of Mission Zero Harm, a recognized certification in fire safety, protection, prevention, and suppression technology is a huge advantage. As a Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS), Piraisudan P joins a select few at L&T Construction with this coveted certification. Conducted by the US-based National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the CFPS certification qualifies code enforcers, design and detailing engineers, fire officers, fire marshals and inspectors, design consultants, PMCs, loss control & risk, safety, and facility auditors/consultants.

Urged by his seniors, and now armed with his new ‘Specialist’ status, Piraisudan’s approach to designing fire systems has significantly evolved. “Previously, my focus was solely on firerelated aspects, but the CFPS certification has given me comprehensive insights into building dynamics and fire safety requirements,” he shares. “Now, I can integrate stakeholder needs, including MEP, civil, and architectural considerations, into my design process, prioritize life safety and passive fire protection measures, and thoroughly evaluate them before finalizing drawings to deliver hazard-safe environments for society.”

The certification empowers specialists to review, address, and provide solutions to a variety of safety-related challenges, with the help of NFPA’s Fire Protection Handbook. Aspirants can opt for the NFPA-conducted online course, practise with questions available on their website, and additionally, join third-party online classes that offer plenty of illustrations and mock questions that can be downloaded.

Explaining his approach, Piraisudan found taking online classes and practising with sample questions helpful to manage his time as the 3‑hour exam posed 100 questions with a 70% passing use rate. “It is not too difficult a task,” he smiles with a shake of his head. “It requires a presence of mind using the tactics covered in the online lectures.” He strongly encourages more L&T‑ites to get certified, as it adds considerable value to their portfolio.