Staffing levels in control rooms

Conference recognises the central role of emergency control staff in the Fire and Rescue Service. Staff in control rooms represent the first line of intervention for members of the public needing assistance. Too often, our control Members are taken for granted by Fire and Rescue Service bosses and politicians. Conference remains deeply concerned at reductions in staffing levels across control rooms. As well as presenting a danger to the public, staffing shortages lead to excessive workloads, increased stress and fatigue among control members. These problems have been exacerbated in some Fire and Rescue Authorities by the introduction of new mobilising systems beset with technical problems and without adequate training having been provided to all staff. As the foremost organisation representing emergency control staff, the Fire Brigades Union vehemently opposes any attempt to compromise their welfare or professionalism. To this end, Conference instructs the Executive Council to redouble its efforts in the campaign to oppose reductions in staffing levels in control rooms, and to take every opportunity to highlight the risks that staffing shortages pose to control members and the public.