AMES, Iowa (AP) — Authorities are investigating a state organization that trains and certifies Iowa firefighters due to allegations involving the certification process. The Department of Public Safety on Friday announced the investigation of the Fire Service Training Bureau, located at Iowa State University in Ames. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation’s inquiry will examine the scoring and certification process for those who took classes from the bureau.

Authorities also say Randal Novak, who had served as bureau chief since 2001, was placed on paid administrative leave on April 25 and retired June 2. John McPhee, the certification and accreditation coordinator was placed on paid administrative leave April 25. He has worked for the bureau since 1998. Kyle Gorsh, a state fire marshal special agent, will serve as interim bureau chief.

The announcement came one day after The Associated Press made inquiries on the matter. Novak said Thursday his retirement had nothing to do with any problems in the bureau.