IRS - FAQs

A. IRS is not regarded as a new burden as the majority of the information required is already collected and reported on in separate returns. IRS is expected to generate efficiencies in the recording and transmission of incident data, especially through the use of XML schema.

Q. Does more data collection mean more work?

A. For most FRSs the main gain will be an end to recording incidents on paper forms and responding to follow-up queries from the DCLG data processing centre. The design of IRS will mean that data validation occurs before it is transmitted to DCLG.

Q. What’s involved for FRSs?

A. FRSs will have a choice of using an on-line form to report their incidents or using XML schema to provide data downloads to DCLG. The on-line form will be provided by DCLG, as will the format of the XML schema.

Q. Won’t it be expensive to implement?

A. The bulk of the cost is being met by DCLG in developing IRS. It is not envisaged that use of the on-line form will generate any extra cost to FRSs. Those FRSs using XML schema will need to make some changes to their existing electronic data systems to match the data specifications in the DCLG XML schema.

Q. Are FRS software suppliers being consulted?

A. We are arranging meetings with as many of the existing FRS software suppliers as possible, we have met 3 already. We have explained how IRS works and they are considering ways in which they will respond and adapt to the new system.

Q. How does IRS relate to FireControl?

A. We are working closely with FireControl. They are fully aware of IRS and the way in which it will work and the information that needs to be collected. Once the new control centres are operating, data will be fed from them into IRS. In the meantime, IRS will feed off existing command and control systems and use supplementary information collected from the scene of the incident.

Q. How does IRS relate to Firelink

A. FireControl will cover all the interactions with FireLink.

Q. How does IRS relate to e-fire/Fire Gateway?

A. As with FireControl and FireLink, we are aware of the developments being pioneered in the Fire Gateway, and are using the same Achieved Forms platforms for the on-line form.

Q. Will there be IRS training available to FRSs?

A. A programme of training for IRS users will be provided by DCLG contractors, Informed Solutions and DCLG staff. The format is likely to be training for FRS trainers. We are also investigating with the Fire Service College whether an e-learning package can be developed.

Q. What guidance will there be for IRS users?

A. Full technical guidance on IRS will be provided in the form of a manual and as on-line help.

Q. Will there be an IRS Helpdesk?

A. A helpdesk is being established in Garston and will be available to pilot FRSs during the pilot period, and permanently once IRS goes live.

Q. How are DCLG communicating about IRS?

A. A communication strategy is being developed. There will be regular communication with stakeholders which will include web pages on the FRSonline web site: http://www.frsonline.fire.gov.uk

Q. Will IRS be mandatory?

A. Using the existing data collection (FDR1, FDR3, OPS 4 and 5), FRSs already supply the majority of these data and statistics to DCLG. The introduction of IRS will not change this arrangement. The data collection benefits both DCLG and FRSs in that a consistently based national picture of FRS activity can be derived from this information, which can then be used in a variety of ways with the ultimate aim of improving DCLG policies and FRS practices.

Q. Will FRSs be able to access their data?

A. IRS will enable FRSs to access their own validated incident data, this will either be in the form of standard reports, for example, BVPIs or customised data downloads.

Q. Why two ways of supplying incident data?

A. FRSs differ in their use of IT and the ways in which they collect and store incident data. Having the option of an on-line form will assist those FRSs that are less advanced in their IT systems and management information databases. In the same way, the more advanced FRSs should be able to use the XML download option relatively easily.

Q. How can FRSs make an input to the project?

A. FRSs have been involved in every stage of the project and this collaboration will continue. The pilot FRSs will gain first hand experience which can then be passed on to others. Informed Solutions will be convening regular progress meetings with pilots and other FRS representatives throughout the project.

Q. Will IRS provide real time data?

A. The availability of real time data from IRS is wholly dependent on the speed in which it is input by FRSs. Realistically, there will be very little real time data. Incidents such as false alarms, could be on the system within an hour, but any incident involving a casualty will of necessity take longer to enter onto the system.

Q. How will incident data be validated?

A. Data validation will take place primarily at the FRS. Data entered using an on-line form will be validated on entry, and any queries generated will need to be resolved before an on-line form can be completed and submitted to DCLG. The XML schema will have validations built in, and FRS data will need to be able to pass these tests before being accepted.

Q. Will there be an accreditation process before FRSs can use IRS?

A. The detailed accreditation procedure in use for electronic FDR1 will not be necessary because of the way in which data validation has been designed in IRS (see above).

Q. Are the IRS questions and drop down menus finalised?

A. Questions and drop downs will be finalised once the pilot has been completed. However, we are not anticipating wholesale changes, as the data content is the result of a protracted process of data definition and consultation. Nevertheless, DCLG will be reviewing the data content with FRSs and other stakeholders annually, once the system is in use.

Q. Who should I contact to find out more?

A. Any comments and queries should be directed in the first instance to the project office email address: firestatsprojectoffice@communities.gsi.gov.uk