The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced its return to the Fire Safety Event 2026, bringing its most ambitious and comprehensive programme to date. As a long-standing partner of the UK’s premier fire safety exhibition, the FIA is set to deliver an enhanced experience designed to support professionals across the sector from installers and integrators to consultants and end users.

This year’s event promises to be a standout moment in the fire safety calendar, with the FIA placing a strong emphasis on knowledge sharing, skills development, and industry engagement.

A Platform for Expertise: The FIA Guidance Theatre Returns
A cornerstone of the FIA’s presence, the FIA Guidance Theatre will once again provide a hub for learning and discussion. Attendees can expect a dynamic programme featuring keynote speakers, technical sessions, and expert-led panel discussions covering a wide range of topics across the UK fire industry.
Bringing together leading voices from across the sector, the theatre will offer valuable insights into current challenges, emerging technologies, and best practices, ensuring visitors stay informed and ahead of the curve.
 

The Agenda:

Spotlight on Emerging Talent: Newcomer Competition Launches
New for 2026, the FIA will host the inaugural Fire Industry Newcomer of the Year Competition, shining a spotlight on the next generation of fire safety professionals.

Taking place live on the FIA stand, this fast-paced, hands-on competition is tailored for trainees, apprentices, and early-career technicians working in fire detection and alarm systems. Participants will be challenged to work on a live, non-addressable fire alarm system, where they must:

• Identify faults and non-compliances
• Apply safe working practices 
• Carry out accurate system testing 
• Document their findings professionally 

Competitors will be assessed by experienced industry professionals using a structured and fair marking system, with performance judged on method, accuracy, and professionalism.

The live format offers a unique opportunity for visitors, employers, and peers to observe real-world competence in action—highlighting the importance of skills development and raising standards across the industry.

Driving Collaboration and Innovation
By combining expert-led education with practical, skills-based competition, the FIA’s presence at the Fire Safety Event 2026 reinforces its commitment to supporting the fire safety community at every level.

With its largest offering to date, the FIA invites all attendees to engage, learn, and connect—ensuring the industry continues to evolve, innovate, and uphold the highest standards of safety.

Learn more about the FIA’s presence at the show here