NFPA Developing EV Training for Canadian Responders
The Standards Council of Canada has engaged NFPA to adapt the training modules used by American emergency responders.
The Standards Council of Canada has engaged the National Fire Protection Association to adapt the electric vehicle training modules used by American emergency responders. SCC said this action, done on behalf of Natural Resources Canada's Federal Interdepartmental Electric Vehicles Working Group, will fill a gap in Canadian responders' training on electric vehicle safety when the training packages are available by mid-2013 to Canadian provinces. SCC's announcement said its stakeholders identified this need during a broader standardization mapping exercise.
"Making standardized electric vehicle safety training available to Canadian first responders is an initiative of national significance," said John Walter, SCC's chief executive officer. "Given the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles on North American roads, it is important to take the necessary steps to keep both Canadian first responders, and drivers, safe. We are pleased to be a facilitator and driver of an applicable solution."
"Our government is pleased to contribute expertise to this training initiative which will help to ensure that first responders are prepared for the increasing use of electric vehicles in Canada," said Joe Oliver, Canada's minister of Natural Resources. "We are committed to continued collaboration with governments and industry organizations to bring electric vehicles to consumers faster and to provide jobs and economic development for Canadians."
The training packages will include train-the-trainer sessions, online training, and resources for fire, police, emergency medical services, tow truck operators, and other responders.
"We have already seen the success of the program in the U.S.," said NFPA President Jim Shannon, "and we expect Canada to see the same benefit as it implements these training procedures. This training is becoming increasingly necessary as countries continue to advance their environmental goals through encouraging their residents to use electric vehicles."