The Union advises members that the following has been discussed with the Executive of the National, Northern Branch and Auckland Local and is endorsed by all.

As you know, there have been discussions about safe operation of the Hazmat/Command Appliance and in particular, the failure by the Fire Service to properly induct drivers.

The Union has raised the point that it is not safe to operate the appliance without the proper induction. In spite of this, the Fire Service has indicated that members will be instructed to drive the appliance and has stated they may issue warnings.

The Union’s legal advice is that the Fire Service is not able to give this direction when the matter has been raised as a Health and Safety dispute. Proceedings have been filed in the Employment Relations Authority seeking a ruling that it is not safe to drive the appliance, pending proper training.

The Union considers that driving of these appliances should now cease forthwith until this matter has been legally resolved with the Authority.

If you have any concerns, please contact me on (027) 658 0792.