The St Catherine Health Department has been asked to conduct inspections at fire stations in the parish to identify whether poor working conditions highlighted last week by a firefighter are being experienced at those locations.
During his protest in Half Way Tree, St Andrew last week, suspended firefighter Leo Bennett stated that firefighters do not have laundry facilities to wash clothing after coming into contact with hazardous materials. He said the items have to be taken home to be cleaned.
Sydney Rose, Chairman of the St Catherine Public Health and Sanitation Committee, noted that this is of concern, adding that it is not only the health of firefighters that is at risk.
Mr Rose said the authorities should thoroughly investigate the issues raised by Sergeant Bennett and seek to correct them.
Last week, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie said he met with Sergeant Bennett, who has been on suspension since a similar protest in May, to hear his grievances.
Mr McKenzie said no commitment was given during the meeting.
