Health & Safety Legislation And The Fire Service

Following the death of Brother Paul Metcalfe and the subsequent court hearing, Conference condemns the court decision to find Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service not guilty of failing in its duty as an employer, to ensure, as far as is practicable, the health, safety and welfare of its employees, for operations in, on or near water. Conference further condemns the comments attributed to Chief Fire Officer Dixon and other CFOs, which by implication suggest Fire Authorities are constrained in carrying out their function, by current Health & Safety legislation. Conference calls upon the Executive Council and membership to use all means necessary up to and including strike action, to ensure Health & Safety legislation continues to apply in the British Fire Service.