Stephen Hunt
8 Jun 2016 · Coroner Nigel Meadows · Manchester (City)
The coroner's concerns
1. physiological effects of working in hot environment
“It is suggested that all Fire and Rescue Services (FRS's) should consider the implementation of measures to reduce the risks associated with the physiological affects of working in a hot environment. In particular consideration should be given to: Duration of wears under breathing apparatus; Having regard to all relevant factors including, for example the weather, previous exertions of BA teams and individual circumstances; Training and guidance for all operational personnel to recognize the”
2. loss of communications during firefighting operations
“It is suggested that all FRSs should consider the implementation of measures to reduce the risks associated with the loss of communications at operational incidents. For example, to include safety control measures to ensure BA teams can be withdrawn from the risk area if needed.”
3. misreliance on thermal imaging cameras for temperature measurement
“It is suggested that all FRSs should undertake a review to ensure the adequacy of standard operating procedures, guidance and training in the appropriate use of thermal imaging cameras to include the limited extent to which they can be relied upon to measure ambient temperature.”
4. deployment of aerial appliances in compromised conditions
“It is suggested that all FRSs should undertake a review to ensure the adequacy of standard operating procedures, guidance and training in the appropriate use of thermal imaging cameras to include the limited extent to which they can be relied upon to measure ambient temperature.”
5. inadequately qualified fire risk assessors
“It is suggested that the Secretary of State for the Home Department considers measures to ensure that: fire risk assessors are adequately trained and qualified so as to be competent in the role, and the responsible person has the means to verify the competence of any person holding themselves out to be a fire risk assessor.”