Following concerns from staff regarding carcinogens, asbestos exposure and lack of control measures at the present time, the need for our members to be decontaminated post incident and the need to maintain a clean cab and personnel hygiene under our Health and Safety Policy, Area 4 has developed an interim guideline to enhance the SOP G7-1 Post Fire Decontamination in consultation with AM Mackereth.

Hazmat Command Crews will be versed in the options available to Officers with the level of decontamination to be undertaken dependent on the incident type. This is a piloted capability with the intention of introducing more streamlined procedure and equipment to cater for all post incident eventualities.

In the pilot kit carried on the Hazmat is a record to help collect data to build our case. We will collect data as well as information and feedback on improvements that may be required for future enhancements of this capability.

Before this becomes a predetermined response, ALL Officers must call for the Hazmat/Command Unit to any Confirmed Fires for decontamination purposes.

Crews are also reminded of their responsibility for their own health and safety by reminding their Officers of the need for post incident decontamination if they deem it necessary.

Any questions, please contact one of your Local Committee representatives.