As a result of concerns expressed regards the safety of the MAN Appliance Cab and that the Cab did not meet the appropriate European Standard (ECE R29) the Union commissioned advice from a qualified Engineer. This advice is reproduced below. You will see that the conclusion that the Cab does comply with ECE R29 and in fact provides a greater level of protection than a Cab built from steel.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Kawerau members are informed that Chris McFadzean has been elected Kawerau Local Secretary.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Auckland Local members are informed that Terry Bird has been elected Auckland Local President.
Since the last NZPFU notice Auckland Local representatives have met with District Manager Vaughan Mackereth to discuss his direction not to
deploy the aerial appliance Parnell 255 unless confirmed fire.
Mr Mackereth refused to withdraw his instruction, threatened industrial action for those that did not comply with his instruction and
refused to other alternatives to address aspects of the health and safety implications of his instruction.
Today the NZPFU notified FENZ that Officers had the right on health and safety grounds to deploy the heavy aerial in accordance of their
training and experience, regardless of confirmed fire.