Metropolitan Fire Service

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (14:54): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking questions of the Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services regarding the Metropolitan Fire Service.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK: It was recently reported that the United Firefighters Union has raised concerns with the SA Employment Tribunal regarding carcinogens allegedly contaminating Metropolitan Fire Service uniforms. According to the UFU, personal protective equipment (PPE) at older fire stations has been stored in fire truck engine bays, which has exposed the items to diesel particulate matter (DPM). The UFU stated in documents submitted to the tribunal that exposure to DPM can have 'potentially fatal consequences'.

The union had apparently written to the MFS on multiple occasions over a number of months, imploring it to take action. Although the MFS claims it has conducted an audit of worksites where it was suspected DPM may be present and says the levels were found to be 'well below the relevant industry standards', the UFU SA secretary has said, 'Our members are showing us the equipment visibly coated in exhaust particulate. It's a gross neglect of the state government's work health and safety obligations, as the employer. It's very frustrating that we have to litigate and spend members' money on this.' My questions to the minister are:

1. When was the minister first made aware of the UFU's concerns with DPM contamination of PPE?

2. What actions has the minister taken in response to these concerns?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (14:55): I thank the honourable member for her question. Supporting the health and welfare of our firefighters is a priority, and the Malinauskas Labor government continues to deliver new equipment and station upgrades to improve safety. It is my understanding works have been completed at the majority of MFS stations, and the MFS continues to action these matters as a priority.