Please introduce yourself
My name is Rupesh Abhishek. I have over 14 years’ experience in the fire safety sector and I am currently posted at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport Patna. I have completed a Level 3 Diploma in fire and safety with the IFE and have since furthered my expertise in aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF), specialising in the unique challenges presented by aviation-related emergencies.
Tell us about your career to date
My career in the fire safety sector began in 2010 when I joined DLF Utilities Ltd. as an Assistant Fire and Safety Officer. I have also worked in Cushman & Wakefield as an Assistant Manager (Fire & Safety). I was in Times Group as a Senior Officer (Fire & Safety). Since January 2016, I have been associated with Airports Authority of India as an Aviation Fire Professional.
Please describe your role within your current workplace
My role as an Aviation Fire Professional is to attend all aircraft or non-aircraft emergencies in the airport premises or in the vicinity of the airport. My primary duty isto protect lives and property by swiftly and effectively responding to emergencies and mitigating the risks associated with fire. I also participate in audits (DGCA, Aviation safety etc) and impart fire awareness training to other stakeholders on different occasions.
Can you describe a typical working day?
A typical day for an aviation fire professional can be dynamic and challenging, consisting of a morning briefing and equipment check, training and standby during flights, or responding to incidents and medical emergencies. When you are on duty, you are mostly stand by in alert mode so that you can achieve maximum opportunity with minimum response time.
Are there any particular challenges or unusual aspects to your role?
The unusual aspects within my role come with unique challenges, some of the most significant include: rapid response, unpredictable environment, hazmat and explosions. Whilst the daily routine includes a lot of preparation, inspections and training, the role requires a constant state of readiness to respond to an emergency. Being always on call and needing to stay alert for extended periods presents a challenging pressure to be ready for high-stake situations at a moments notice.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The unpredictable nature of emergencies that mean that no two days are the same. For people who enjoy high-pressure environments, this unpredictability can be exciting. There are always new techniques, technologies, and safety procedures to learn, which keeps the job intellectually stimulating. Being able to respond effectively in dangerous situations, and potentially avert disasters, provides me with a deep sense of achievement and purpose.