History of IAFSS
Our Founding
Our Founding
In 1984, discussions initiated by Dr. P. H. Thomas, Prof. K. Kawagoe, Prof. K. Akita, Dr. J. G. Quintiere, Dr. R. Friedman, among others, led to the planning of the 1st International Symposium on Fire Safety Science. The purpose of holding such a symposium was “to provide a forum dedicated to all aspects of fire research and their application to solving problems presented by destructive fire.” This first symposium was held October 7-11, 1985, at which a new international association was founded, the International Association for Fire Safety Science (IAFSS). The registrants at this first symposium were the charter members. Want to learn more? Read the introductory pages of the Proceedings from the 1st Symposium!
Organizing Academic Events
Organizing Symposia
Since the formation of the IAFSS in 1985, a principal focus has been on organizing the International Symposium on Fire Safety Science every three years to continue the sharing of knowledge and the networking amongst the fire safety science and engineering community. Until now there have been 13 symposia with the 14th being planned for Tsukuba, Japan, in 2023. In line with the charter members’ desires, the symposium engages the global community, moving around the world to facilitate participation by all.
The Future
The Future
The IAFSS reorganized and registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organization (CIO) with the UK Charity Commission on 20 February 2023, to bring us in alignment with current UK Charity Act requirements.
As we look to the future, the International Symposium on Fire Safety Science will continue to be a primary focus. However, with advancements in publishing and access to knowledge and information, we also seek other mechanisms to advance fire safety science and engineering, and seek to help tackle the global fire safety challenges. The next chapters are yet to be written, but with your help we can continue to be a driving force in creating the knowledge and solutions to address societally important fire safety challenges.