The Local has been made aware of a number of instances where members have attempted to address faults and failures with the terminally flawed Fraser-MAN appliances. This is not a recommended solution by either Management or the Union. The instruction to members contained in Northern Branch Notice NB 16-44 is still valid. SSO Chris Lind is still logging faults and failures and needs to be informed of any further incidents with Fraser-MAN appliances.

Members are reminded of the importance of leaving the vehicle in-situ, if safe to do so, and call for a mechanic to attend. All faults and failures should be reported as a near-miss and must also be logged in order to provide an accurate record of faults in order to allow the project recovery team to identify and address potential trends or whether a particular fault or failure is unique to one vehicle. This process also applies to any aerial appliances that may “freeze”. In that case, leave the appliance as set at the time of the fault and notify Access Specialties.

In each instance, Auckland Fleet Co-ordinator Bernard Downey should also be notified through the Comm Centre in order to create an accurate record that a fault or failure has occurred. As well, Bernard can be reached on 027 444 8087.

If members deem that the fault renders the vehicle potentially unsafe, then, under Work Safe Legislation, members are statutorily obliged to book the vehicle K-0 and either await repair or perform an appliance change-over.

Members are to bear in mind that the fact no relief appliances may be available is not the problem of any member but more indicative of the unsatisfactory management of the fleet as a whole.