Ken,
As the executive Secretary of the National Certification Board, some might say that I am slightly prejudiced in favor of the CFEI programs (and they would be right).
To me the principle difference between the IAAI-CFI and the NAFI CFEI, CFII, and CVFI programs is that all the NAFI certifications programs are based directly on NFPA 921 as the “standard of care” in the fire investigation profession. The IAAI-CFI certification, lists 921 on the “Fire Investigators Reference List” for the examination along with other peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed publications.
Both certification programs are cited in 921.
“13.6.4 National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI).
“13.6.4.2 The Association also originated and implemented the National Certification Board. Each year, the board certifies fire and explosion investigators and fire investigation instructors. Through this program, those certified are recognized for their knowledge, training, and experience and accepted for their expertise.
“13.6.5 International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI).
“13.6.5.2 In addition to an annual seminar, there are also regional seminars focusing on fire investigator training and education. The Association publishes the Fire and Arson Investigator, a quarterly magazine. The IAAI offers a written examination for investigators meeting IAAI minimum qualifications to become an IAAI-certified fire investigator (CFI).
Both programs are also structured on NFPA 1033, the Standard for Fire Investigator Professional Qualifications. Both programs require a minimum amount of training and experience and five year re-certification.”
There are over 3500 active CFEIs and something under 1000 CFIs (I do not know the exact number of IAAI-CFIs).
The best way to evaluate the two programs is get the opinions of individuals who hold both certifications.
The next CFEI testing will be at the NAFI/NFPA National Advanced Fire, Arson, and Explosion Investigation program to be held on March 14 – 17, 2007 at Eastern Kentucky University. More Information can be obtained at the NAFI website: www.nafi.org.
Pat Kennedy, CFEI, CFPS, MIFireE
Fire and Explosion Analyst
Sarasota, Florida
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www.kennedy-fire.com]