Abstract
This paper enquires into the nature of a newly developed CPD mechanism for fire-fighters in the form of an Integrated Personnel Development System (IPDS), which proposes to base future training for every rank in the service on the acquisition and demonstration of competence for role. IPDS is due to be introduced nationally in 2005 and this work critically evaluates its introduction. The fire service in England and Wales is run on para-military lines, with up to thirteen hierarchical ranks separating the County Fire Officer from the probationary fire fighter.