Motion 71
Support for the FBU Decon Campaign and Firefighter Health Protections
“That this Congress is alarmed by recent research findings into the health of firefighters who attended the Grenfell Tower fire that reveals 136 (one in four) are now suffering long-term health disorders, including:
- 66 cases of digestive diseases
- 64 cases of respiratory diseases
- 22 cases of neurological diseases
- 11 cases of cancer.
“These findings underline the urgent need for action. Congress has previously acknowledged the FBU’s DECON campaign, which advocates for stronger protections to reduce toxic exposures, introduction of measures to safeguard firefighter health, and legislation to ensure that affected firefighters are given the compensation and protection they deserve.
“Congress demands that the Scottish Government act immediately to:
- introduce presumptive legislation to recognise specific cancers and diseases as occupational illnesses for firefighters;
- increase funding to allow the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to implement decontamination procedures, increase access to protective equipment, and training as per the FBU DECON campaign and best practice document;
- establish annual and lifelong health monitoring programs for firefighters; and
- collaborate with the FBU to deliver these essential protections.
“Congress calls on the General Council to support the FBU in campaigning for immediate, decisive action. Firefighters risk their lives for others and deserve to have their health and wellbeing prioritised.”
Mover: Fire Brigades Union
RSS