What's involved

A fire protection installer works on a construction site or in domestic and commercial premises. The work involves installing, or applying, different passive fire protection products and can be very varied.

Fire protection systems could include structural protection to the frame of a building, fire stopping to the compartmentation of a building and installation of fire resistant ducting. Other related work also includes the construction of fire resistant walls and ceiling linings and thermal and acoustic insulation.

Fire protection operatives often get the opportunity to travel around and sometimes work overseas.

Skills required

As a passive fire installer you'll need to be able to work at heights and be happy to work both indoors and outdoors.

Passive fire installation can also be quite physical, so good fitness is important. You will also need to be precise, accurate and able to follow instructions from supervisors and managers.

As well as good numeracy skills and an eye for detail, you will also need to be able to read plans, diagrams and fill in information sheets.

Qualifications required

There are no formal requirements although it would help to have GCSE's in English or Welsh and Maths at A*-C.

(Applications from students with the Foundation or Intermediate Welsh Baccalaureate are also welcomed).

Salary ranges

(This is a guide to the average salary a fully qualified and experienced person might expect to get.)

£15,200 - £25,000.

Progression routes

Entry to the apprenticeship may be considered through the Association for Specialist Fire Protection www.asfp.org.uk.

Passive fire protection offers a good grounding for progression into technical, supervisory or management roles, or even to start up your own business.