Firefighters' Strike: Health and Safety Considerations

In view of the proposed strikes by the fire services, the Government has drafted guidance for businesses.

Most importantly the guidance states that the absence of local fire authority service does not increase the danger of a fire and should not "prevent the overwhelming majority of businesses continuing to operate safely during the dispute". However, it is likely that on strike days:

- attendance times will increase; and
- the services attending will have fewer specialised capabilities and will not be familiar with either the incident sites or local geography.

The Government is recommending that businesses carry out a further risk assessment and implement steps to minimise any additional hazards.  The recommended steps include:

- checking emergency plans and procedures are up to date;
- ensuring that emergency systems such as alarms and emergency lighting are working;
- ensuring staff are properly trained;
- carrying out regular inspections to ensure that fire exits are unobstructed and the accumulation of waste is identified and removed;
- ensuring that any unnecessary activity which could increase the risk of fire should be avoided. For example, it should be ensured that no flammable or toxic substances are delivered on those days and that hot work such as welding is avoided;
- ensuring that key members of staff should be readily contactable;
- ensuring that a copy of site maps and emergency plans is kept off the premises and be readily accessible.

In relation to certain businesses, such as hospitals, care homes, and so on, it will also be necessary to ensure that there are additional staff resources available on strike days to help ensure that a more extensive evacuation of patients and residents can occur immediately. Hotels should also ensure that on strike days, they have additional staff resources to help evacuate elderly, infirm or disabled guests.
This document is for general guidance and research purposes only, and does not purport to give professional advice. Please check the date at the top of the article; the Workplace Law Network retains historic articles for general research.