FBU conference resolution

A resolution to the 2017 fire brigades FBU union from its national women’s committee (NWC) said it was appalling that some women are still being provided substandard or ineffective PPE and workwear. It made clear that well-fitting PPE is a basic requirement for the health and safety of all members, including women, but that many are still being limited in their choices for well-fitting PPE and workwear.

“Ill-fitting PPE has historically put women members at risk and should not be tolerated in today’s fire and rescue service,” it said.

The resolution called for women’s workwear to be of the same standard, material and protection as their men colleagues.

“The only difference in the garments should be that they are provided in a women’s and not unisex fit,” it added. “Many women are having to wear ill-fitting men’s shirts and trousers or specially procured sub-standard items. This is not only discrimination but potentially dangerous for our women members.”

It called on the union’s Executive Council, in conjunction with the NWC, to raise this issue as a matter of urgency with every UK fire and rescue service and ask for a detailed breakdown of the items of PPE they issue to women members. It called for feedback from women members on the integrity and fit of clothing and for an evaluation to be carried out to determine where there are problems.